Vic and Ola's: A Culinary Journey to Southern Italy
Chef Sheila Bryson, known for her work at Alma, Pescada, and Soul Cafe, brings her heritage to life at Vic and Ola's. This new restaurant pays homage to her Calabrian and Sicilian roots, offering a culinary exploration of southern Italy.
Elegant Ambiance:
Vic and Ola's welcomes guests with a spacious patio, crisp white tablecloths, and gold tableware. A centerpiece stained-glass window bathes the dining room in a warm glow, creating an intimate atmosphere.
Family Inspiration:
The menu is a tribute to Chef Bryson's family. Vic and Ola were her grandparents, and their kitchen significantly influenced her culinary journey. Dishes throughout the menu reflect recipes and flavors passed down through generations.
Italian Wine and Cocktails:
An exclusively Italian wine list complements the cuisine, featuring selections from regions like Venezie (Pinot Grigio), Tuscany (Sangiovese), and Veneto (Valpolicella). A unique cocktail program offers creative libations like the "All Saints" martini, a bright and floral concoction featuring St. George Gin, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, and Pamplemousse liqueur. For a southwestern twist, guests can choose the "Margarita Milano" with reposado tequila, Aperol, peach bitters, and grapefruit, or the smoky "La Vita Fumoso" made with mezcal, Italicus Bergamot liqueur, and fresh red pepper.
Menu Highlights:
Starters showcase classic Italian flavors. The "Arancini" features house-made breaded saffron balls filled with a savory beef and pork bolognese. The "Mista Salad" combines mixed greens, shaved fennel, cucumbers, feta cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and red wine vinegar.
For pasta enthusiasts, the signature "Tagliatelle di Olivia" offers a unique Sicilian experience with spinach tagliatelle, artichoke hearts, capers, anchovies, and cured olives.
Main courses range from the tender "Osso Bucco" featuring braised cross-cut veal shanks to the luxurious "Lobster Mezzelune," ravioli filled with lobster and bathed in a creamy saffron sauce. Lamb shanks, Branzino (European sea bass), Calabrian shrimp, and Bolognese lasagna round out the menu's enticing selection.
More Than Nostalgia:
Vic and Ola's offers more than a nostalgic ode to family. It's a culinary passport to southern Italy, taking diners on a delicious journey through regional specialties, accompanied by a wine list that explores Italy's major winemaking regions.
