Diners’ Diary: The Office Bistro

Gluten-Free Mom tastes the Workman’s Comp Martini and Blackened Sea Scallops

The Workman’s Comp is made with citrus vodka, lemon and pomegranate syrup. Maybe the bartender figures when you order a martini at lunch, it should hit the spot without knocking you over but I would’ve liked it a bit stronger. As for the scallops, I requested the dish be made gluten-free. These tender tidbits weren’t “blackened” but they were cooked perfectly with a rich tomato beurre blanc, and although the parmesan herb risotto wasn’t as creamy as I would’ve liked, it was hearty and satisfying.

Lil Circus Girl tastes the 9 to 5’er Martini and Baked Lobster Mac & Cheese

Any concoction made with Limoncello might as well include a little label reading “Drink Me” as well! In addition to Limoncello, the 9 to 5’er has citrus-infused vodka, fresh lemon and just the right amount of sweetness to make you want a second one. The penne in the Lobster Mac & Cheese was baked with a blend of Monterey Jack, Parmesan and Cheddar cheeses as well as formidably-sized morsels of lobster. The first bite left me wanting more. The second bite made me reach for the salt shaker but I was still quite pleased with my dish.

The Beekeeper’s Wife tastes the Mussels, Mushroom Soup and Mesclun Salad

It’s nice to find a classy new restaurant near the river in Cuyahoga Falls. It was full and noisy, and I loved the large photos and live broadcast of the river, but I really wanted some bright orange or hot pink to liven up the monochromatic décor. Although the garlic mussels were delicious, they’re supposed to be served with crostini. I didn’t receive any, and when I asked the server, she brought me soft rolls. The soup tasted fresh and silky with a little kick, and the salad was topped with crisp apples, candied walnuts and a tart, apple cider vinaigrette which was very refreshing.

Finicky Foodie tastes The Executive Martini, Mussels and Mushroom Soup

Well put my stapler in a JELL-O mold, The Office has a new location! Same quirky cocktail names but different décor, including a live feed of the falls and big, artsy canvas prints of the same (hands-down, the gem of the restaurant’s décor.) I threw back the frothy, chocolate joy of The Executive Martini like it was my job and felt well-compensated by the bartender’s healthy pour. The Mushroom Soup was hot and tasty enough. In a display of teamwork, I shared the mussels with The Beekeeper’s Wife, and though we didn’t have to arm wrestle over the last mussel, they were also tasty and well-prepared in a colorful presentation.

Drama Queen tastes The 9 to 5’er Martini, French Onion Soup and Grilled Chicken Sandwich

I ordered the 9 to 5’er martini made with citrus-infused vodka, Limoncello, lemon juice, simple syrup, a sugared rim and lemon wedge. It arrived in moments ready to enjoy, and I did. As an expert on French Onion Soup, I was delighted by the perfect balance of soft, dark onions in a rich, flavorful broth with seasoned croutons and plenty of melted cheese. The Grilled Chicken Sandwich (hold the Bleu Cheese) featured a generous amount of meat, paired with spinach, candied walnuts and a balsamic mayo that added just the right kick.

Running Man tastes The Cuban

I elbowed my way to the server before anyone else could order the Cuban, since it jumped at me right from the menu. This sandwich is made with warm roasted pork, prosciutto and Swiss cheese with some pickles and mustard to top it off. It was tremendous but there was one small problem ... I had to share. The bar has a large selection of beers on tap and an impressive cocktail menu, which make The Office the perfect stop for after (or during) work. I’d feel comfortable there in my jeans as well as in a fine suit.

teckenBERRY tastes the Founders Breakfast Stout, Ham and Brie Panini and Stuffed Banana Peppers

My lunch was a deliciously surprising combination of flavor bombs that calmly work together to create a satisfying plated adventure. While the Stuffed Banana Peppers didn’t complement the sandwich (and shouldn’t be eaten in tandem with it), they provided an appropriate amount of zest and seasoning to accompany what I believe to be the most important part of the dish: the risotto and Italian sausage stuffing. This all-around delicious lunchtime experience was polished off with a Founders Breakfast Stout from The Office’s succinct yet powerful draft list.

Potentially the Web Guy tastes the Bell’s Hopslam and Alaskan True Cod Fish & Chips

If the thought of fish and chips floats your boat, then The Office Bistro’s contribution will fulfill your deep-fried fantasies. While portions of the meal seemed more batter than actual fish, the Alaskan True Cod was still tasty. To complement the meal, I ordered a glass of Bell’s Hopslam, a Double IPA that takes no prisoners in delivering a palate-wrecking, yet incredibly drinkable beer.