The Place
Second stop in the OTR Brunch Bites category is LouVino OTR Restaurant and Wine Bar. This is an easy brunch spot to overlook because its storefront blends in with the local surroundings. I have brunched here before and thought it would make for a good read/review!
Location
LouVino is located on Main Street in OTR. Parking consists of pay lots and meter parking. With meter parking being free until 2PM on Sundays, how could I resist snagging a spot on E 12th St. Reservation made for me and my stepmom at 10AM via Open Table.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at LouVino is reflective of a true rustic-style wine bar. The inside of the restaurant is very spacious, high ceilings, exposed brick, lots of hard wood, and a gorgeous bar. Seating is plentiful and includes table/chair, booth/chair seating along the wall, and bar seating. There is also a private dining room in the back of the main dining area. If you travel downstairs to use the restroom, you will notice another private dining room for larger events. Our waiter was very friendly, I started off with an Aperol Spritz and my stepmom had the Bloody Mary. My spritz was great had the correct increments of all ingredients and the Bloody Mary was right on point as far as spice, spirits, and overall flavor.
Order-Up
Loaded Baked Potato Tots
I came to brunch on an empty stomach, so I was ready to eat! I was impressed their brunch menu because of all the options. For an appetizer we started off with the Loaded Baked Potato Tots. These were crispy on the outside with a nice fluffy, bacon, scallion, explosion on the inside. The tots were served with a side of house ranch which was a great compliment. This app was delicious, off to a good start here.
Pancake Tacos
It's time for some mains! I decided to go with the Pancake Tacos. I was drawn to this menu item because of its uniqueness. It consisted of two folded pancakes, each one stuffed with bacon, eggs, sausage, and cheese. This was served with a side of maple syrup. I think the concept was good, however I think it could have been executed better. The pancakes were pretty large and difficult to manage as a taco. I ended up opening them up and cutting them with a knife and fork. I think smaller pancakes served on a taco stand would've had better presentation and easier to handle. The flavors on the inside did not fuse together, everything just kind of tasted like sausage. Don't get me wrong it was still good and I cleaned my plate. I was hoping for more smoky bacon and maybe a sharper cheese flavor.
Croissant BLT
My stepmom had the Croissant BLT which consisted of bacon, cheddar, egg, fried green tomato, and maple mustard served on a croissant. She opted for a side of brussels instead of fries. She was very pleased with her selection, she stated it was cooked perfectly and enjoyed her side selection of the brussels. Her favorite of the sandwich was the fried green tomato.
Overall Experience
The overall experience at LouVino was good. The atmosphere and location is nice, service was friendly. The appetizer was great and so was the Croissant BLT. I don't think I would get the Pancake Tacos again. You can expect to spend 20 to 30 dollars here.
Rating
3.5⭐
LouVino receives a full star for three out of four categories: Atmosphere, Brunch Cocktail, and Service. They receive a half star for Plate due to the execution and flavor of the Pancake Tacos. I would definitely eat here again and would consider a wine or champagne flight to compliment my brunch.
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