The Office Restaurant Review
Today we are reviewing a fabulous place downtown in Stephan Avenue called, “The Office.” A cool Cali-Cabo restaurant reminiscent of a cantina you would find on a tropical beach. I tell you that is really needed when it comes to the cold winters here in Calgary. So, it is time to grab a book and head into the office because let’s face it, it’s paging us.
Now this is my idea of an office!
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is reminiscent of the beach in California and/or Mexico where the surfing crowd rules and the sun is ever present. Tropical plants are present in every direction you look, a couple of surf boards adorn the walls along with various TV screens that show off some unique photographs that add a little something special. The music sets a chill but colourful mood that makes you feel like you are enjoying one sweet vacation on a beach having a fruity cocktail. A clean, easy-going kind of eatery where one can relax with a good book and pretend that they are on a beach. The grey cushioned chairs are very comfortable so one can stay there for hours with several appetizers and a glass of wine.
Natural and Classy!
Service
The server was a sweetheart. Always checking in to make sure I was okay, asking me about the book I was reading (she is a reader too). Just the kind of place to make you feel welcome. Not only was she friendly but quite knowledgeable about the menu. She gave me some good recommendations especially being a vegetarian and didn’t mind telling me what her favourite item was on the menu. I got my drink order and appetizers quickly along with some occasional check ins to make sure that I had all I wanted and if I was enjoying myself. She did all of this with a smile which made me think I was chatting with a longtime friend. Suffice to say, my server deserved a big tip.
Aye! Cali-ente!
Food
Brace yourself because the appetizers in this place are epic. What was ordered was the Jalapeno Salt & Vinegar Fries, Blistered Shishito Peppers, Street Corn Guacamole, and a Crispy Fungi Bao. If you love to have some spice with a little bit of tang, the Jalapeno Salt & Vinegar Fries are going to be your best friend in this. The kick from the jalapeno salt hits you first but the malt vinegar aioli highlights it in a way that is not overpowering but a nice statement, and the pickled fresno brings it all together as well as adding a little sweetness to the dish.
Now we are getting a little fresher with the Shishito Peppers. It’s not as spicy as the fries but it is warm enough to make you blush. The black garlic shines through and gives you a healthy glow that you are always looking for in a gym.
When you are unsure of what your cravings are, the street corn guacamole is packed with the most wonderful of flavours. A solid crunch with the tortillas mixed with creamy avocados, fresh taste from the tomatoes of the Pico de Gallo, and yes heat from the jalapenos.
If you need something a little more substantial then ,“baby take a bao.” Now this is one that is not spicy but satisfying all the same. Crunchy mushrooms, tangy kimchi, and a terrific balance from the miso pineapple mayo to add a little sweetness. All of this was washed down with a Mionetto Prosecco. A little sparkle mixed with the sweet tastes of fruit and honey to make it all taste like nirvana. This is a great hangout to have a snack and chillax.
Oh yeah! Getting spooky. Click the pic to buy the book
Book
The best book to go with this restaurant is Michelle Konde’s, “The Locket.” A fun and spine-tingling thriller about some undercover agents who are looking to infiltrate a supernatural cult. I choose this book for “the Office” because when you hear the name of the restaurant and when you go inside, nothing is as it seems. People hear the term, the office, they instantly think serious, organized, and stressful. In the case of this restaurant, it is the exact opposite as it is laidback, vibrant, and full of surprises.
On top of that, the book’s protagonists all get this mission by going into an office in the first place. In fact, an office seems to be a reoccurring theme in this book as you read on. You will also see that these agents though they are serious about their work, they are not serious people. In fact, they are fun, funny, and have a lot of playful banter between each other even if they are in the office. It is like watching a bunch of kids in the playground. However, there are undercurrents. Each one of these characters has their own strife and struggles. So, as you can see, nothing is as it seems.
Surfs up!
Final Thoughts/Ratings
9/10
This is a happy place! Even if it is on the pricy side, an eatery where you are welcome and can easily spend the day reading a book (who hasn’t?) is always in the good books. Lots of fabulous finger foods that you can enjoy with a paperback for a few good hours. Although this has not happened (yet), they have the look of some of the most wonderful of brunches in the city. I look forward to going back for that meal (that Hollywood Bowl is mine!) When you need a break whether it is from your actual office, or just in need of a min-beach vacation but don’t have the means to go, this is the place to be. Good music, good vibes, good wine. Who says you can’t have happy hours in “the office?”
You can find the Office here:
318 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2Y9
