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| - Quality over quantity. Brava Bistro's is a fine dining bistro: a small restaurant and not to be confused or compared to large plated restaurants or chains. Situated in the heart of 17th ave, Brava's contemporary setting is inviting and not pretentious. The menu (back in the summer 2011) offers simple and more importantly, great tasting dishes. From reading previous reviews, I'm not sure why people's expectations of size is relevant? It's a bistro and like a tapas, you shouldn't expect large amounts. Instead, criticize Brava's approach on how they execute their dishes within a bistro setting, or just go to Denny's. Perhaps, Brava's casual ambiance gives off a mixed message of its brand, or maybe large plates such as their pasta deviates too far from their flagship dishes.
What I ate and liked
Lobster poutine is creative and economical (using the seafood broth from other dishes as the gravy is smart), The braised short rib was not overcooked/dry, nor was the basa either. Seared scallops were perfectly done, nice and opaque in the middle.
Feedback
We order pasta the following week and it was not consistent with the previous (above). I had the mushroom fusilli and the spicy penne. The fusilli was done well, but nothing to brag about. The spicy penne was over concentrated with salt (too bad). The chef took the penne off the bill without hesitation; thank you. Overall, I understand that the pasta attracts an affordable price range, but its not what I interpreted of what Brava's brand is. Keep it consistent with the rest of the menu and avoid the urge to cater to those who demand big portions. 3.5 stars!
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