Classic food. Tasteful decor. Cultured people.

Erin Easterbrook

Italian music is lightly playing in the background of a small yet intimate restaurant. Civilized conversation is being conversed. Dim lighting is being reflected in the long and narrow, oval shaped mirrors. Fresh parsley can be smelled and for a brief moment, you may forget you’re not in Italy.

Fratelli, meaning brothers in Italian, located in the heart of the Glebe in Ottawa on 749 Bank St., is a contemporary fine dining restaurant offering classic Italian food. The accommodating service in a comfortable atmosphere is bound to contribute to an enjoyable night out. Fratelli also serves lunch making it a popular choice for young professionals.

In the evening, you’re bound to find city dwellers, whether it be couples or groups, regularly hitting up the quaint place. The restaurant is not ideal for kids; it’s an intimate and warm environment so you shouldn’t be in a rush. The walls are a soft yellow on one side and bricking on the other, masked in art, antique collectibles, and signed dishes. The decor is pleasant for munching away.

If you’re a plain Jane and are looking for something simple, Fratelli offers a gnocchi dish in tomato & basil sauce. Don’t let the portion throw you off; it’s small but happens to be extremely filling. It’s served hot and sprinkled with fresh parsley. It’s classic, tasty, and accommodating to vegetarians. Price – $14.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more unique, give the genoa pizza a chance. It’s topped with black olives and roasted peppers making it flavoursome. The grilled chicken gives the pizza a bit more punch while the tomato and pesto complete the dish. It has an original taste and goes nicely with a glass of Chianti Giordano, an Italian red wine. Price — $15.

The eggplant involtini is a delicious combination of eggplant, goat’s cheese, tomato sauce, and roasted peppers. The goat’s cheese and eggplant complement each other while the red peppers add character to the meal. It’s an original dinner perfect for open-minded people. Price — $12.50

Fratelli’s small and cozy environment offers only the best Italian food. The pricing is reasonable, they offer a variety of dishes, and the service is good. Most importantly, the food is reliable, so Fra”TELL”i all your friends about it.

5/5 Star