The One Where I Review a Restaurant

Chez Tess – Halifax, Nova Scotia

This morning I had the opportunity to try out a new local restaurant that I found out about on Twitter of all places.  The Coast magazine posted a link to their review (which I mentioned in my first Around the Internet post) and I was intrigued, so called upon a couple of girlfriends to try it out this morning.

Chez Tess is a creperie recently opened in the North End area of Halifax (5687 Charles Street, @ Agricola).  Without Google Map and the review I would never have found it.  A new hidden gem!

Upon arrival I expected it to be a basic little coffee shop style place, but to my surprise it is actually a lovely bistro!  Just a small space, but modern and elegant with beautiful artwork and sophisticated tables.  (It’s small and I arrived alone so felt a little exposed to start taking photos…which is really too bad.  But don’t worry I will be going back!)

The gentleman that sat me was very professional, dressed in a gorgeous suit and making me comfortable right away.  My girlfriends arrived shortly thereafter and my server had already brought me my delicious coffee and even checked with me when other guests arrived to see if they were my friends.

The menu we had to choose from was the weekend brunch menu (which is apparently different than their weekday menu).  Numerous different savory and sweet crepes, plus a few other lunch type items.  We all chose crepes of course!

Lori opted for a fruit filled version, while Bonnie and I both chose egg filling.  Mine was “Ham & Eggs” which is exactly as it sounds, but with a twist.  Scrambled eggs, honey ham, cherry tomatoes, and spinach cream cheese.  It was tasty and quite filling!  Two small hashbrown patties were served on the side, seasoned with something we couldn’t put our finger on…possibly sage…also yummy.

They do offer a lovely dessert selection as well…had I not been full I would definitely considered the creme brulee.  Next time!  We saw desserts delivered to the table beside us and they looked decadent.

I have to point out that the best part of our visit was the service.  Our server was incredibly attentive, very friendly, well spoken, brought my friend a whole new tea when refilling our coffees (as opposed to just giving her more water, thus weak tea), and was exceptionally professional when the kitchen actually messed up my order.  Her attitude was what kept me happy and it didn’t bother me a bit that I had to wait an extra few minutes for them to make the right meal.  There is sooooo much to be said for great service!  (I hope her boss is reading this!!)

For a restaurant open for barely a couple of weeks (with this being only their second brunch) the business is off to a fabulous start.  A hiccup or two here and there, but I predict those to be worked out in short time.  The customer service will outshine any problems that arise anyway.

Bon appetit!