A place to mingle, mix and be: Nigel’s Bistro recently opened in January in downtown Ottawa, taking the place of Henry T’s bar and grill.
Nigel’s is a taste of something a little different for Ottawa residents, featuring European cuisine such as Italian, French,and traditional English meals. The bistro is owned by Nigel and Cathy Baynes, of Brighton, England.
There are no menus, just chalkboards up on the wall with the entire menu, often changed daily to feature new or different dishes.
The staff at Nigel’s is small, with only two to three other servers along with Nigel and Cathy. The service never suffers, however, and a person can always expect to experience something a little different.
The servers greet and describe the specials, and every employee checks on you. While at some restaurants, a person has to wait and wait to see a server again to refill drinks but, at Nigel’s, everyone (including the owners) stop by to make sure the dining experience is an enjoyable one.
Restaurant-goers should also note that this is no “come, eat, leave” restaurant. The people who dine at Nigel’s quite often come for dinner and stay well past nine. With a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, guests are invited to sit and enjoy each other’s company.
Many people sit at the bar (though no alcohol is served) and strike up conversations with someone they’ve just met. In true European pub style, people sit around and share life stories.
With soft music playing in the background and warm people all around, it’s no wonder people take their time.
Nigel’s is currently closed on Monday and Tuesdays.
“We’re European, it’s how we do things,” Nigel Baynes joked.
Tyler Long, junior communication major, is a server at Nigel’s.
“Closing those days is nice for the employees too because restaurants are open on the weekends. Being closed on a Monday and Tuesday gives us a weekend, too,” Long said.
Nigel plans to eventually hold jam sessions at the bistro, allowing locals to come in and showcase their talent or just sit and enjoy the music.
In a town dominated by rib joints and fast food, Nigel’s is a breath of fresh air for people who don’t want to drive all the way to Lawrence or Kansas City for something a little different.
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