Chi Bistro

Went for lunch to Tess’ only to find it under new management. Same terrific chef, wait-​staff and friendly (but updated) décor. Many of the menu items are the old favs plus some new ones reflecting the new ownership. Food & service remain first rate, some of the new items may need a bit of work but certainly, we will return.

I gotta say, I was a little sad when I heard the former restaurant in this space was closing. Today was the first time I’ve been in since it’s taken new ownership and I think the décor is a thousand times nicer. It’s much more modern and hip now. Don’t worry though, all the age demographics were present when I was there. From super old grannies having cola and brunch to a group of 20-​something hipster dudes, it looked like the place to be. I order something completely out of my comfort zone, a special for the day, breakfast Mac and cheese.
It’s two Mac and cheese patties, an over easy egg with local scoured bacon on top drenched in Hollandaise. With a side salad to balance everything out. It was good, but too rich for my blood — I’m currently paying the price for it. The bacon and salad were me favourite brunch plate pieces. Grapes, onion, baby salad and vinaigrette… Trust me it worked.
My brunch partner grabbed the breakfast skillet. It’s egg, cheese, local sourced sausage, hash browns and some garnishes I’m sure. She didn’t seem to be a fan, but it looked good to me.
We each ordered coffee, it was very, very dark and delicious! I don’t think I caught where the coffee was from, but like most coffee, it was a highlight of my morning!
I wanted to add that the service was fantastic. Very personable, friendly and funny. Not in that ‘it’s my job to be nice, I’m being forced to do this for money’ but genuinely friendly and funny. The place was packed as I mentioned and food flew out of the kitchen and on to table in no time, and with no problem. I’m not picky and happy with most service, but it was really great here.