From relentlessly positive buzz surrounding Preston Street’s newest late night eatery, 2/5 nuts and an esteemed guest diner (Alex Sirois) decided it was about time to take a peek at this cleverly named spot. Located, as one might imagine, at 268 Preston St., the Italian main drag welcomes one more spot where people can sip, munch and chill out until the wee small hours of the morning.
First-time restaurateurs Emily Ienzi and her main squeeze, Steve Harris, have transformed the former Lindenhof restaurant into a hip, small plates spot. And “hip” barely begins to scratch the surface. The interior is reminiscent of Union 613: narrow, dimly lit , with added rustic flare in the refurbished barnyard-like walls and bench style wooden seating. 26{ate} is decidedly every hipster’s haven, with funky twists on classic cocktails, a sparkling playlist in the backdrop, and casual, simple fare. Ottawa Citizen’s reporter, Peter Hum, gives a generous nod to the vibe and style of 26{ate} likening it to “…Little Italy’s more hipster and casual Play Food & Wine.”
We sampled a few of the small plates, pleased to see that barely anything on the menu sprung above the $20 mark. We began with the tortillas which were a favourite among the table, yet insisted upon similarity to a chicken ceasar wrap. Following we sampled an Italian style sub, Sirois’ choice dish, which was true to the neighbourhood’s heritage and culture. We sampled the deep fried calzone’s which I later learned are a family secret, made from Ienzi’s mother’s recipe. The poutine, though delicious, doesn’t compete for best poutine in the city, although it hits the spot with an added bonus of confit chicken atop.
{Top Left: Calzones R: Tortillas, Below: Sub}
The wine list, though not a specialty, was well rounded and carried a few of my personal favourites, including Notios’ Agiorgitiko (a greek wine). The cocktails, based on our limited samples, were outstanding. Catherine’s (boozy)cherry pop was delicious and invoked memories of a childhood summertime favourite: cherry coke.
Receiving friendly and attentive service, we were directed toward the dessert menu and after dinner drinks list. Upon perusal of this list, our mouths practically dropped open. This new dining spot pays homage to our own beloved blog with a specialty coffee entitled “in a nutshell“. We immediately ordered two of the namesake libations and thoroughly enjoyed every last sip.
Casual, comfy and serving specialty coffees with style, in a nutshell, we were happy to have stepped foot into 26{ate}.
Recent Comments