First Visit to HB: I made a reservation for a party of 3 at 8pm on a Thursday. I noted in the reservation we were celebrating a birthday. We were seated on time but not s single person acknowledge that we were dining for a special occasion.
At the table we had to wait almost 10 mins before we were greated. Then the server's main focus was lighting the candle and telling us the chefs rules about ordering everything at once. He didn't pour our wine, something that normally happens in a nicer restaurant. He didn't go over any details of the menu, except to tell us the 86'ed items. We've never been here before, something he'd known if he took the time to ask. It would have been nice to get some feedback on the menus.
We ordered three apps: potatas bravas (crispy & delicious), escargo (perfectly composed) and shishito peppers (can't mess that one up). And two entrees to share: shortrib ragu (meh. Very light on the sauce, chewy pasta, little to no goat cheese, perfectly cooked shortrib and a LOT of the relish. The flavors were nice, the portion size was great but not enough sauce/cheese) and the Amsterdam style mussles (delicious sauce but I got a really fishy, grainy mussel and had to stop eating them. I noticed my friends weren't eating them either and they said they both had the same experience - so we ate a quarter of the mussles, the plate was still very full, and yet the server didn't inquire as to why. The food was coursed out perfectly!
Service over all wasn't terrible, but not great and very slow. We were in no hurry and still often felt the drag, which was weird, because they weren't busy at all. They refrigerated our second bottle of wine which was nice, but then promptly forgot about it. We had to ask for it when we (finally) got our check. The bus boy would bring over clean plates, BEFORE clearing our table. He didn't clear the table himself, he gestured for us to hand him the dirty plates..while we balanced the clean ones. There were so many moments when the server or bus boy (there was only one of each for the whole place) could have easily elevated the dining experience, without taking much time at all, but it's like they were blind to it.
Overall, it was a nice evening. The food was good if not particularly notable on the entrees, the byo policy is so nice, but the service is lacking. I think with a little more attention to the table service this place could...
Read moreAs a recent addition to Cleveland’s Little Italy, Home Bistro immediately charmed us with its warm welcome and exceptional dining experience. From the moment we stepped in, the ambiance hinted at the memorable evening ahead.
Greeted by a delightful hostess, we were promptly seated and attended to by our server, who was eager to walk us through their impressive drink selection. The seasonal holiday drink menu, featuring unique concoctions like the Mrs. Claus and a comforting hot toddy, added a festive twist to our visit.
Despite the conciseness of the menu, the variety was striking, catering to a wide range of preferences. With a tight schedule due to a concert at Severance Hall, we were concerned about time. However, the staff’s efficiency and timing were impeccable, allowing us to savor every moment without rush.
The dishes, oh the dishes! Each entrée, from the succulent gnocchi and trout to the flavorful chicken thighs, clams, and shrimp, was a testament to Home Bistro’s commitment to culinary excellence. A particularly noteworthy Caesar salad received an 8 out of 10 from our usually critical companion – a high praise indeed.
But what truly set Home Bistro apart was the feeling it evoked. There’s a certain magic in the air, a combination of attentive service, elegant decor, and a sense of comfort that makes you feel right at home. While the menu promises an elevated experience, it’s the execution that truly delivers, surpassing our expectations with every bite.
As we departed, each of us shared praises for a specific element in our dishes, noting how they stood out from past dining experiences. Home Bistro didn’t just serve us food; it provided a memorable, cozy, and festive experience that we’re eager to return to. For anyone looking for a culinary retreat that feels like home yet dazzles with each dish, Home Bistro is a must-visit in Cleveland’s...
Read moreWe tried Home Bistro for brunch, and we were absolutely blown away by the experience. From the moment we arrived, we could tell we were in for something special.
We started with the fried artichokes, a beautifully crispy and flavorful appetizer that set the tone for what turned out to be an unforgettable meal. For our main dishes, we tried the breakfast burger, pork belly hash, and a market salad. Each dish showcased incredible attention to detail and freshness. The breakfast burger was rich and savory, perfectly balanced by its toppings. The pork belly hash, with its crispy yet tender pork belly and perfectly cooked potatoes, was indulgent and comforting. The market salad provided a fresh and vibrant counterpoint to the other dishes, highlighting local ingredients and seasonal flavors.
The highlight of the experience wasn’t just the food, though. The service was equally impressive. Our server was knowledgeable and friendly, offering excellent recommendations and helping us decide on what to order.
Overall, Home Bistro delivered not only delicious food but also a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a hearty brunch or a place to enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes, this spot is a must-visit. We’ll...
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