by Amy Swanton Mills

Nook Bistro is aptly named.  It is situated in a deep, dark corner of a mini-mall, which also holds a Western Bagel, a nail salon and a dry cleaner.  This is the kind of place that you don’t just stumble upon, but once you’ve found it, you return frequently. 

The décor is simple and modern, making good use of concrete floors, exposed beams and ductwork, and large mirrors.  You feel like you’re eating in a loft, which is unexpected considering the location. For a small space they did a great job making it feel open and airy. The noise level is on the boisterous side, but it isn’t intolerable.  There is a large, communal table down the center of the restaurant, which is a little less intimate and noisy, but the tables around the perimeter afford a quieter experience.  

Nook has something on the menu for everyone, except maybe that friend that’s always on a diet.  The dishes are straightforward and hearty, and are aptly described as being “American Bistro.” I’ve eaten here many times, and always have to order the Shitake and Gruyere Bread Pudding or the Macaroni and Cheese sides.  They are really rich, but so delicious I can’t resist them!  For a main course, I usually go for the Maple Mustard Glazed Ribeye, which uses Meyer Ranch certified humane ribeye, and comes garnished with baked apples and crispy onion rings.  I always save a little room for dessert, which includes several decadent choices. 

They do serve wine and beer as well as soft drinks.  The wine and beer list is eclectic and complements the food nicely.  They have great coffee and tea selections for after dinner, but I’m usually too full to partake!  Nook is a great little restaurant that really strives to please and do the right thing where food is concerned.  I can only hope that more people will make the right choice and support places like Nook, rather than the big chains that serve sub-par processed food at the same price point.  

For more information visit their site at http://www.nookbistro.com