ounge Evolution. Let’s reflect on the term “evolution” for a moment. The words "progress" and "growth" come to mind. Perhaps one thinks of millions and millions of years of natural selection. Now, let’s apply the term to a lounge. One would imagine a place on the cutting edge, constantly forming and reforming its aesthetic to meet its patrons’ needs, wouldn’t one? “Lounge Evolution” just happens to be the essence of Opus on 8th’s brand. How accurate is it? About 50 per cent. Sure, it’s a lounge, but it's not much of an evolution. Though, does a lounge really need to be evolutionary to warrant checking out? No, it doesn’t. It just needs to be a cool place to get a buzz and a bite.

Opus on 8th Chef and co-author of Cold Tea at Three, Matt Binkley, has the buzz and bite parts locked up; there's no doubt about that. With a menu that features Izakaya (Asian tapas), including steamed Shanghai dumplings organic Beef Tataki, heck, even Sushi pizza, Opus pushes the boundaries of typical lounge fare. If you’re feeling especially malnourished, you could try the Chef’s Ultimate Experience: a 5 course dining affair that promises copious exotic flavours. Like the fare card, the drink menu doesn't leave much to be desired. By combining old and new school wines, as well as featuring green tea and fresh fruit sorbetto-infused cocktails, the drink list offers a solid selection.

This should be obvious, but in the hip sousing and biting arena, an establishment that promises an evolution needs to push boundaries. Opus, with its eclectic Asian/fusion menu, has fabulous culinary presentation and bumping house joints, but falters with the look; that familiar look. It's not bad, just recognizable; you know it: espresso wood paneling, abstract artwork, and a softly lit bar. To embody "lounge evolution," Opus should have an unusual, innovative, even subversive vibe. It should drag the typical trendy bar kicking and screaming through a meat grinder. What Opus boils down to is an exceptional watering hole and eatery, great for a buzz and a bite; that's more than enough, it's just not an evolution. -H.J.