“We’ve been very lucky.” Says Ford about the response the place has been getting since they opened up. “Last night, we had a packed house. It was amazing.” On one of my visits, the party of 15 that were enjoying the luxuries of the communal table at the front of this resto was setting the tone of what to expect from this place.

Sutherland and Ford want people to know that other than the friendly and pleasant ambience, the priority will be the food. The food is inspired by French, Portuguese, and Spanish cuisine. The whole purpose of the menu is to have seasonal dishes and constantly keep it changing. The menu is meat heavy but they can easily accommodate vegetarians or any other food specific diets that people might have. Their menu is basically a three-price tier of $7, $9 and $11 mini dishes.

Their wine list is an extensive one that will also see changes from time to time. You can purchase wine by three or six-ounce glasses or you can get a half litre or bottle. They also have flights of wine, which are several glasses of two-ounce servings of wine. Think of it as ordering off a tasting menu but you get wine instead.

So for those who would like a night out without the congested downtown scene, the Fat Cat Wine Bar is the place to go with a group or with a date. – J.B.