Suede Lounge
11806 Jasper Ave., 780-482-0707
One of the first in the city to put forward the concept of fine food in a lounge setting is Suede Lounge. Four years after opening, Suede still tweaks its menu, wine list and décor regularly to improve on an already successful endeavour.
While its single open room is not vast, Suede can pack 150 people into its space while maintaining a cosmopolitan but cosy atmosphere. Backless white suede couches are scattered throughout for casual conversation, while white leather stools and high tables offer a great view of the stylish patrons. Abstract art on the walls is changed regularly and glass dividers are altered in concert to match the dominant colours of the art.
As with any resto-lounge, the drink menu is extensive, with over 50 types available, including some fine bubbly and a diverse selection of vodkas, scotches and tequilas. Try the Cakebread Chardonnay from California ($75 a bottle) for an extra-special wine.
But a resto-lounge without fine food is just a lounge, and chef Jeff Kreklau is as passionate about the menu as he is about the freshness of its ingredients.
“We’re taking late-night eats from around the world, dressing them up and adding our own spin,” says Kreklau, explaining his menu’s mix of foods from South America, Mexico, Asia and Europe. “Everything is made fresh and to order, and we try our best to use as many local purveyors as possible.”
Tapas are a big part of the menu, allowing groups to order a range of the delicious variety on offer. To start, try the crusted scallops ($12), which come with grilled artichokes, a sherrybacon vinaigrette and sweet corn puree. The prawn cakes ($12) with mango sake and wasabi mayo are to die for. An array of flatbreads are light on the stomach but full of flavour. The White flatbread ($12) is served with carmelized onion and gorgonzola, pear and cracked pepper, while the green ($13) is a blend of cilantro, spinach, prawns, sweet chili jam (yum!) and asiago on a red curry base. Dessert recommendations include warm chocolatestuffed strawberries ($8) and chocolate torte ($9) with fresh grapefruit sorbet.
Suede’s evolution continues this month when new menu items will include duck poutine, lobster lasagna and crab fritters.
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