Arrived ahead of the evening crowd on a Thursday evening. We were greeted immediately, pleasantly and welcoming, and shown to a table (we did make reservations).
The decor is welcoming and cozy, with a great wall menu that allowed for easy changes to the menu with the creativity Andrew is known for in the kitchen.
We sampled the Lab item for the week, which paired well and had a nice flavour. One had the Donair gnocchi, and two others had the Bucket of Chicken. While the portion of gnocchi was a bit small, the flavour was fantastic. It is a must try. The chicken was poached with herbs and seasoning, then coated with ringolos and maple before it was fried to perfection. I have honestly never tasted better chicken. It was light, juicy and tender with an incredible flavour.
Also, a must try.
Andrew was charming, passionate and knowledgeable. He was actually serving us that evening instead of in the kitchen.
It was a great dining experience (I've been known to be hyper-critical) and we will definitely be back!
I was curious to see how this new Lower Water Street brainchild of former Masterchef Canada contestant, Andrew Al-Khouri, would come together on the plate after what seemed like a longish incubation period. I’m happy to say the eclectic fusion - of this and that, Middle Eastern and Maritime, high and low, sweet and savoury, fine dining and comfort food - works. Period. There are flavours and textures juxtaposed against each other in challenging but rewarding ways across the initial menu. The execution and appearance on the plates also compliments the tastes and makes the experience a feast for the eyes as well as the belly. Portion sizes - thankfully - are good. I’ll be back, as I’ve only scratched the surface of thIngs... Sure, I tried the sublime Apple Burger & Frites (a serious contender for best burger in the city when The Coast does their ‘Best of...’ thing this coming year), after a starter of Chicken Shawarma Salad. And the Sweet Potato & Salt Cod Fishcake in Massaman Curry Sauce. Oh, and the Tahini Truffle in Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt. And I washed it down with a tasty Morris Ale (provided by the fine folks at Tide House Brewing). But there’s more to tempt me. I didn’t even get to the Donair Gnocchi, Cote du Boeuf, or Meze Board on this first visit.
Great food, great service! Be prepared for a small but diverse & tasty menu, wine selection is limited but good & priced very well. The space very nice, it is small & intimate, lots of natural light, open kitchen style. Highly recommend it.
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