With restaurant openings and high-end culinary events, it's been a bumper time for local foodies.In Woodbrook, Drink Wine Bar re-opened after a few months of refurbishment as Drink Lounge and Bistro.The refurbishment included the addition of a kitchen, something owner Dale Ramirez felt was necessary, as his patrons have been suggesting for a long time that he should serve food.
Ramirez and his team have managed to maintain the ambience for which Drink was well-known, while adding great value with a simple, interesting and reasonably priced menu. People looking to get off the busy beaten track of Ariapita Avenue can head to Drink for good food and a chilled out vibe. Meat eaters as well as vegetarians are catered to on the menu which includes salads, sandwiches, tapas, soups, pizzas and hearty entrees. Drink has also maintained its roster of wines, European ales and spirits. Another spot that's been restored as a restaurant, is the loft above the Haagen Daz parlour in Ellerslie Plaza.
Formerly Gourmet Club, the spot was last used as an architect's office but has been recently opened as Aioli, a swanky, upmarket eatery.According to Aioli's Facebook page, executive chef Johnny Aboud's menu is "European fusion with a heavy Mediterranean base (Amalfi coast inclusive of Spain, France, Italy & Greece) with hints of influences from the rest of the world, prepared using classical French techniques."The menu is quite a luxurious and includes dishes like Truffle Lobster Pasta, Thai Duck Breast, Shrimp Panzanella and Beef Tagliata.
