Fred's is exactly how I imagined a Barney's restaurant would be. Everything is trendy and stark. And from the menu down to the seating, everything in the restaurant just exudes "cool." But, cool enough or not, I gave it a go and I'm happy I did!
I've been hearing about Fred's Sunday brunch since they opened. With a Bourbon Street brunch menu and live New Orleans jazz, it sounded like a perfect spot to take my Mom who was visiting from out of town. And it was! As we entered, I noticed how the restaurant is bright and open and allows you to look down into Old Town. The decor was cool (of course) with blacks, whites and grays. We sat down in a comfortable window seat booth near the live musician singing and playing jazz on the piano. The staff was immediately friendly and the menu offered us our choice of a variety of options ranging from salads, to brunch to pizza. In honor of Sunday brunch, I went for the Italian's version of huevos rancheros made with their homemade bruschetta and my Mom opted for the Chicken Salad. The iced tea was refreshing and I could have solely focused on the variety bread they brought out and I would have been satisfied.
My meal was good but a little too rich for my appetite. It was flowing with a sauce that resembled marina sauce and it came with a side of potatoes. If you like huevos rancheros and you like Italian food, this would be a good choice. Unfortunately it just wasn't exactly what I was hoping for but still quite delicious and it's not Fred's fault that I ordered something just too rich for my appetite this visit. I ended up having some of my Mom's chicken salad which was light and fresh. The dressing was a little light but it still had a nice taste to it. I really liked it and secretly coveted her decision.
I really enjoyed the atmosphere at Fred's and it's a perfect place to relax and catch up. Next time I return, I'll go the salad route or possibly the Bourbon Street Brunch which sounded amazing.