Wednesday, May 25, 2016

The Rowan (Review)

This past long weekend, Lola and I ventured to the Rowan for a fabulous Sunday brunch after perusing the stands at the Lansdowne Farmer’s Market. Opened last summer, this modern British-inspired restaurant replaced the Zazaza pizzeria in the Glebe.

Sibling chefs Simon and Ross Fraser are the masterminds behind the Rowan, who are also known for their wildly popular brother restaurant, Fraser Café, located in New Edinburgh.

The Rowan is more casual than Fraser Café and has an artsy, yet inviting vibe, with soft green walls, creative lighting, moulded plastic seats and a huge wall mural of a rowan tree.

We felt very comfortable here and really enjoyed the chill ambiance, as well as the friendly and helpful staff.

The kitchen is run by chef de cuisine and Fraser Café alum Kyle Decan, who helps bring to life unexpected, yet familiar British dishes with simple, classic flavours and local ingredients.

During brunch, we both chose a different meal from their original one-page menu. I went with the Kedgeree and Lola opted for the English Back Bacon Sandwich.

The Kedgeree consisted of two poached eggs, curried vegetables, rice, chillies and yoghurt – a nice departure from the typical bacon and eggs. The ingredients were fresh and healthy and the portion size was perfect. The flavour combinations were also bang on, and it had a slight kick that got my day started off right!

Kedgeree ($14)
Lola’s sandwich was equally delicious, which was stuffed with fried egg, pickles, cheddar cheese and mouth-watering back bacon. Slaw and thick-cut chips balanced out this typical English-inspired dish.

English Back Bacon Sandwich ($16)
We were both quite satisfied with our choices and thoroughly enjoyed our experience at the Rowan. We will definitely return again, next time for lunch or dinner, whose menus look just as yummy as brunch!

Verdict: 9/10 – original menu with classic flavours; great service and vibe

Hours: Brunch - Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am to 2:00 pm; Lunch - Monday to Friday 11:30 am to 2:00 pm; Dinner - Monday to Saturday 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm; Sunday 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Price: Brunch/Lunch $8-24, Dinner $10-30

The Rowan, 915 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON
therowan.ca

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