Aloette is the younger sister to Patrick Kriss’ much lauded fine dining restaurant, Alo. And, like most younger siblings, this means that while Aloette is built with the same bones – great food, service and atmosphere – it is also more casual, a bit cooler and, dare I say, more likeable? (Disclaimer #1: I am the youngest child).

I would best describe Aloette as an upscale bistro, but even then that description doesn’t feel 100% accurate. The menu is a blend of bistro classics (steak, carpaccio, tartare), comfort food classics (burger, crispy potatoes (with cheese), chocolate sundae) and, for lack of a better term, Patrick Kriss good food (sea urchin on toast, seared scallops with miso, roasted carrot salad).

The menu consistently changes but the burger is a staple and worth getting as well as the iceberg wedge salad, which I like to think is a sleeper hit (i.e. sounds boring but it is so crunchy! So fresh! So balanced!) I hear the lemon meringue pie is also a must-have but I somehow never remember to save room for dessert when I’m there.

Pro tip: Aloette does not take reservations and it is popular. Plan to arrive at least one hour before you want to dine, put your name on the wait list and head upstairs to the bar at Alo (yes, that Alo) and grab a cocktail while you wait. Alternatively, come for a late lunch/early dinner.