Have you ever sat down at a classy restaurant with a craving for something big and greasy instead of a bird-sized entree? Well, the days of choosing between trendy ambience and tasty takeout food are over. Chic meets cheesy at Jane, a cozy new spot that serves gourmet comfort food and pizza that you wouldn’t believe could exist in such a stylish setting.
The atmosphere can be described as warm and minimalist. The menu, on the other hand, is anything but boring with dishes that change nightly and which appear on the back wall’s chalkboard. Italian meatballs (which can be had as appetizers or added to the pizzas) and pizzas that range from Greek souvlaki to bacon cheeseburger to Jewish smoked meat and French chicken pot pie are just a few of the multicultural dishes that chef Ryan Dixon has brought together.
The appetizers are decent portions, so don’t be afraid to share. While the beets and goat cheese salad is good, it’s nothing out of the ordinary. But, the octopus salad is to die for – crispy, spicy and completely different from how the dish is usually prepared at other restaurants. The drinks are just as unique; their cucumber Bloody Caesar definitely has a kick (be wary of ordering it extra spicy) and the grape-cucumber martini is refreshing and not too sweet.
Generous doesn’t even begin to explain how large the pizzas are, so don’t order a full one to yourself unless you’re planning on rationing it off for a couple days.
I had the Bianca pizza, smothered with all of my favourite Italian exports: mozzarella di bufala, parmesan, pesto and truffle oil, all on a perfectly cooked crust.Then, just as I was thinking that the Bianca was Jane’s shining star, I saw the Schwart-za pizza arrive at the table next to mine. Covered in smoked meat and pickles, it begged me to return for it. It smelled so good, I know that I will.
While the food is not too cheap, almost everything can be shared between two if you are on a budget. Also, the gourmet pizzas and intimate vibe are worth the splurge. If you are looking for a spot to catch up with an old friend or impress a first date, Jane is the perfect place. You know how it goes: “When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore.”
Just be sure to reserve a table in advance – with only about 35 seats, intimate can sometimes turn into a crowded wait at the bar on weekends.
Appetizers: $10-18;
Mains: $19-24 – tax included.
All major credit cards accepted.
Open for lunch Tuesday to Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
Dinner served Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5:30 p.m. until 11 p.m.
Friday and Saturday from 5:30 p.m. until midnight
1744 Notre-Dame St. W
514-759-6498
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