Imagine a place where everyone knows your name. But instead of the iconic fictional Cheers bar, it’s a reality, come to life in Hart’s Table & Bar. The neighbourhood restaurant aims to be not only a fun hangout spot for locals but also a home-away-from-home for all guests. The open interior strikes a balance between upscale and casual, with a variety of seating – including a living room area with comfy chairs and a striking design you may be tempted to copy at home. In addition, the menu boasts familiar comfort food made with fun twists.
This family-friendly spot transforms from a place where everyone can enjoy weekend brunch (carrot cake pancakes, anyone?) to a relaxing but fun adults-only atmosphere after 8 pm. “It gives all the parents an opportunity to go out and unwind,” says Darren Malko, general manager. On sunny days, the spacious patio is filled with guests enjoying a fancy take on familiar foods, like grilled cheese and meatloaf. “We feel we have a diverse menu that will have unique options for everybody,” says Darren. “Either we try to put a twist on it or stay away from your traditional restaurant fare. That way, when people come out, they see something unique and they’re intrigued by it.”
Whether you’re perched on a cozy stool at the New York-style 40-foot long bar or hosting a family dinner in the corner banquet, you’re sure to find a relaxing spot to unwind. Often, bachelor or bachelorette party-goers can be seen sharing appetizers and drinking cocktails in the indoor living room while friends watch a game one of the big screen televisions. “When the owner decided to create a space like this, he wanted to make it so that it was an upscale-style, casual dining atmosphere,” explains Darren. “We set out to be the world’s greatest neighbourhood restaurant and bar. Having different seating options and a wide variety of decor helps us achieve that.”
To create the delectable Baja fish tacos, the chef takes cornmeal crusted cod from the West Coast, cabbage, pickled red onion, cilantro and salsa and piles it all on top of some soft flour tortillas. To eat them, you pick them up, try to keep all of the ingredients stuffed inside the tortillas, take your first massive bite, and watch half your taco spill onto your plate. Repeat until there is more taco in you than there is on your plate.
Cheddar and potato perogies accompanied by sausage made in Mundare, AB. Antipasta with fresh bread baked at Prairie Mill Bakery in Edmonton. A range of beef from Aspen Ridge, including the NY striploin steak and the ground beef in the Hart’s Burger Stack. These are just some of the local treasures you’ll find on the menu here. They utilize local ingredients as much as possible, and turn them into delightful comfort food dishes. Many of their desserts also come with locally-produced Pinocchio ice cream.
On Wednesdays, their entire wine list is half-priced. Match your favourite red or white with one of their featured meat and cheese boards, on special for $20 on Wednesdays. They have two reds and two whites on tap, available in 6 or 9 ounce glasses, as well as a list of vino by the bottle, including multiple kinds made right here in Canada. Hockey fans will want to try the Wayne Gretzky Okanagan Cabernet/Syrah, only $40 a bottle (before the discount). Or, treat yourself to the Bure Duration Cabernet Sauvignon, normally $365 a pop.