Walking into Simpli Bar & Bites approximately two weeks after its opening, my friend and I felt like Norm walking into Cheers. Mike, the manager, was warm and welcoming, as were the guests he was chatting up near the front door.
He immediately wanted to show off their beautiful soft wood deck which featured hanging flowering plants, cozy corners, and dim lighting. Being that the summer is quickly slipping away and we were there on one of our particularly cool and rainy early evenings, I immediately inquired about heating lamps to extend outdoor dining through fall. Mike assured us they were seriously considering this modified design.
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| Outdoor patio. Photo Credit: Simpli Bar & Bites |
It would be extremely wise to do so, as the interior dining space is small and can be a bit awkward if you happen not to be a social being. To the far right of the space, upon walking into the front door, is a large "shared table" space which would certainly make for a feeling of self-indulgence should it be you and one other person, or perhaps a feeling of uncomfortableness (in my case for sure) if another party were to join. There are 3, maybe 4 high tops against the front windows and approximately 10-12 seats at the bar with great views of the food and cocktail prep areas. There is also a narrow ledge at which to stand on the other glass wall (parking lot side) leading up to the outdoor dining space.
On my first visit, the space was not full in the least. On my second visit, there was very minimal space, yet I did not feel overcrowded or in the way of the staff.
The staff appears to be absolutely pleased with their positions and are uber friendly and open to conversation well beyond receiving and preparing and order. I mean, really, check this guy out...there's no way he isn't happy at work :0)
The staff in general were amazing with Chef Andy working it out in his limited sized kitchen. I was glad to see and experience the pride he had in having say in the menu design and creation. I also think it's a smart idea to poll diners on Autumn suggestions, whether dishes or ingredients that patrons would appreciate. It gives diners a feeling of relevance and as a new neighborhood spot, that is important. Our server Kristen rocked!
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| Chef Andy. Photo Credit: Simply Bar & Bites |
Chef Andy truly impressed me most with his passion. He also blew me away with his preparation of the lamb chops adorned with a sprig of fresh rosemary. They were so tender, so succulent, so well seasoned and delicious, that my friend whom has long before sworn off lamb actually enjoyed them!
Simpli Bar & Bites certainly elevates what they can with the space in which they are working. This MUST be commended even though the menu's skeleton is simple and concise. The quality of food, presented specifically by Chef Andy, is quite good and I truly believe we will see greater product as they tweak the opening kinks.
The pork belly sliders featured tender, meaty bites of pork belly with tangy slaw and a drizzle of BBQ sauce on a lovely bun. The pork belly is seasoned and slow-cooked overnight and crisped the following day. There's nothing like seeing the gleam in the eyes of a chef who takes pride in the proper preparation of a fantastic protein. This light was very apparent in Chef's eyes as we chatted about the meal.
As simple as it may seem, the pretzel pucks, served with spicy mustard, were amazingly good!
While not all items are housemade, the kitchen pushes out good dishes with a personal touch via Chef Andy. Pride is preparation and presentation is obvious, even before picking his brain and being directly exposed to his enthusiasm. The server staff was just as enthusiastic and willing to share!
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| Slow cooked pork belly flatbread with BBQ sauce, red onion, and mozzarella sans the listed arugula. |
Now on to the drinks...
Jess, our bartender for the evening was "simpli" amazing! I am an avid bourbon/scotch/whisk(e)y drinker and she provided a tasting/comparison of the spirit that I am familiar with alongside those that I was not. Blanton's bourbon, with its spicy vanilla notes, was my "gateway bourbon" back in the early 2000s so I get pretty excited when I see it on any shelf and I ask for a neat order whenever it catches my eye.
I remember ordering it after being seduced by the ornate bottle.
I also sampled a lovely Willett bourbon. Willett's, bottle #247 out of #281 was very Knob Creek-esque with its cherry nose and smooth finish.
It was also my first time sampling Berkshire's Corn Whiskey. The most interesting note mid-palate was reminiscent of black tea. Very interesting and great when served neat.
I was most impressed with Jess' offering of Rogue Pink Spruce Gin...yes, Gin! For those who follow my blog, or know me personally, I am always (and rarely) surprised when I am able to actually stomach a gin. Rogue's gin was smooth, it was more floral than juniper-y. I found it to be a bit tropical with notes of pineapple, coconut, and baking spice. It was beautiful!
I was most impressed with Jess' offering of Rogue Pink Spruce Gin...yes, Gin! For those who follow my blog, or know me personally, I am always (and rarely) surprised when I am able to actually stomach a gin. Rogue's gin was smooth, it was more floral than juniper-y. I found it to be a bit tropical with notes of pineapple, coconut, and baking spice. It was beautiful!
Rogue's Dead Man Whiskey was strong and punchy!
While I was being adventurous, I also sampled a beer (not usually my thing). Cisco Brewers' (Nantucket, MA) Grey Lady beer (4% ABV) was floral with lavender and light citrus notes. Mixed with blueberry triple a vodka it's called a "Blue-haired Lady" at Simpli Bar & Bites, and a "Red-haired Lady" with red triple "a" vodka.
I will write specifically about the few lovely cocktails I was able to sample from the evening in a follow-up post.
I was extremely excited to note that the bar was stocked with local spirits companies (Grand Ten, Berkshire, Tito's, Sons of Liberty, etc.) Glad to see the camaraderie!
I certainly enjoyed the El Diablo: Anejo Tequila, lemon juice, lime juice, and hellfire bitters and the House Red Sangria was decent.
Head over to Simpli Bar & Bites as they plan to change up the menu soon. I, for one, am excited about what's to come.
