I heard of the Ostrich briefly last year but nothing more really other than it being a speakeasy. We happened to be out for a friend's birthday and decided to wander over since we were in the same lot. At first I was a bit unsure since they wanted me to sign up for their text list in order to receive a "free" drink. I don't really like signing up for text messaging group things because it seems impossible to stop receiving the messages. I mean, I understand it and perhaps other people enjoy it for quick updates but for me, I know better to just not sign up next time.
It was very hip and trendy and enjoyable for the experience at least. Would I call it a speakeasy? No, because I have been to places requiring code words hidden behind walls through kitchens and whatnot... I'm not sure they even refer to themselves as such. The darkness basement like feel to the interior I suppose gives it that feel I wouldn't have known that was the deal had I not previously heard.
The bartenders were very attentive and very kind. The drinks are those you would find at a speakeasy, for sure. The one upset I had was that I was standing at one side of the bar waiting for service and I had already received beverages from one of the bar tenders. I typically like to stick with the same bar tender throughout the course of the evening. Little did I know that I was on the wrong side of the bar and the gentleman was visibly upset toward me for asking to have the same bar tender who had already helped me. Nevertheless, the vibe was good apart from that moment as were the drinks.
At one point the ladies room line was so long that a staff member allowed myself and another customer to use another washroom since it was taking so long to use the one available and we had been waiting quite some time to get in there.
I didn't try the food and can't speak to that.
All in all it was a good night, although next time I think a single drink will suffice as an after dinner treat since they are heavy drinks, so beware.