Cafe Hollander Awards

Cafe Hollander Restaurant Review:

This two-level bistro, on a triangular, East Side intersection, evokes a from-elsewhere feel with woven-back chairs, flatbreads and cones of pomme frites with curry ketchup or basil aïoli. Because the owners strive to emulate the feel of a Belgian pub, it’s no surprise that bitterballen (spiced, deep-fried meatballs), Belgian burger bebes (sliders on pretzel rolls) and a Belgian cheese and sausage platter are appetizer options. Accordingly, all-day breakfast exudes European flair. A case in point is the three-egg omelet, tucked with Gruyère, diced tomatoes and mushrooms alongside frites. For lunch and dinner, options run the gamut from comfort-food staples (mac ‘n’ cheese, tossed with creamy goat cheese with a dash of rosemary) to lighter fare (sliced strawberries and grilled shrimp, with honey-mustard dressing on a bed of mixed greens). The extensive beer list specializes in brews from Belgium and the Netherlands; get an overview with a flight of four on tap. Desserts continue the theme with Hoegaarden shortcake, angel food cake topped with seasonal berries and bourbon cream. On warmer nights, we like to request alfresco seating.