Empire Little Bar Bistro
Norfolk, VA 23510-1813
Phone: (757) 626-3100
- Price:
- $
- Hours:
- Mon-Sat 5pm-2am
Editorial Review for Empire Little Bar Bistro – by Steve Rocca
The Scene
Seating only 32, this place fills up fast: Granby Street regulars pop by for a drink; theatergoers hurry in for a snack. Old-style ceiling fans with shell-shaped paddles lend a Southern feel, but instead of iced tea and lemonade, the staples here are moderately-priced martinis and fancy treats. With half the seats overlooking either the bar or the grill, you're likely to get to know the chef as well as the bartender.
The Food
Whether soup or snack, dishes work because a sense of proportion informs the flavoring. The oyster stew is creamy and not too full of potatoes; the Mexican pizza is zesty but none too spicy. Even the sweet coating on the lightly fried pork and ginger dumplings impresses, as it puts the traditional pot sticker sauce to shame. Spinach ravioli in a thick gorgonzola white sauce gets a pleasingly woody kick from chopped walnuts. It's the little things that count.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkMartinis are plentiful, but there are also several rare local brews on tap, such as St. George Golden Ale Porter from Hampton and Red No. 5 from Richmond.
Where to SitFront-row window seats looking out over Granby Street's busy nightlife are perfect for hanging out and watching the world go by.
ParkingStreet parking is metered until 6pm; you may have to walk a block or two once you find a spot.
The ExtrasYou can add $10 to any tapas for an entree-sized portion or be adventurous and share three or four different items. The menu changes seasonally.
User Reviews for Empire Little Bar Bistro
01/15/2008 Posted by janations
If I could sum up our visit in one word it would be "eh". The food was good and the service wasn't too bad, but I didn't find the place to be anything special. The tapas was about the same price as a much better place down the street.
Pros: Pretty good food
Cons: Price maybe more than the food's worth
07/13/2007 Posted by taylorsl
Cozy, intimate albeit small place on the corner of Granby and Tazewell. Food served until 2am which is a bonus. Very interesting menu, just the right sizes.....always excellent specials. Extensive cocktail/martini/wine list. It is crowded so go earlier in the evening if you want to make sure you get a table.
Pros: Ambience, interesting menu, good drink selection
Cons: Smoking permitted, parking, small space
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