By Amy Van Veen (The Cascade) – Email
Print Edition: February 8, 2012
2852 Gladys Ave
Abbotsford, BC
604.855.8777
Hours: Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Prices: up to $26.95
Lou’s Grill has, allegedly, been a staple in the Abbotsford community for a number of years – but sadly it’s a staple I hadn’t yet experienced. I’ve driven past it, of course, as has anyone on their way to Mission, but since it’s tucked just behind downtown Abby’s corner, it’s tucked just outside of most people’s line of vision.
This particular restaurant has a way of breaking expectations. From the outside, with its gravel parking lot and simple neon sign, Lou’s seems to be more of a down home grill. Images of bearded men and pitchers of beer filled my mind, but stepping through the door I found quite the opposite. Less of a grill and more of a lounge, Lou’s offers hushed lighting, louder music and cozy seating for more intimate conversations. Despite the look of tables being on top of one another, I never once heard a word of conversation from the table next to me. It’s not a large space, but it is utilized with obvious planning. The main drawback, though, would be the low chairs and high tables that never cease to make me feel infantile.
Despite its loungey-atmosphere, Lou’s breaks yet another expectation once the menu is perused. I find most restaurants that offer this kind of experience diminish their menus, focusing on a few plates—mostly appetizers—and a drink menu. However, Lou’s menu was so comprehensive, it took probably twice as long to narrow down the choices than it would at any other restaurant. From a dozen different appetizers to sandwiches, burgers, grilled entrees, pastas and almost anything your heart desires, Lou’s packed menu isn’t just limited to food. Their cocktail menu—especially martinis—alone could easily rival other lounges’ dinner menus.
In order to truly take advantage of their menu, a selection of appetizers was ordered including their extra-large nacho platter, classic chicken strips and fries and bacon-wrapped scallops. The chicken strips and fries found that balanced ratio between crispy outside and scrumptious outside, the bacon-wrapped scallops were served in a creamy, tangy sauce, but the nachos took centre stage. With layer after layer of crunchy nacho chips and melted cheese served with a variety dipping sauces, this plate was a marvel. How the cheese didn’t turn the chips soggy is a mystery I’d love to solve, but for under $15, it’s a secret I’ll gladly let them hold on to.
As the weather gets over itself, the heated patio acts as a nice reprieve from the intimacy inside, but it would be best enjoyed on a lazy summer afternoon with one of the many martinis in hand. For those who want a lot of selection, a lounge-like atmosphere and friendly, conversational service, head north from downtown Abbotsford on Gladys and you’ll see Lou’s Grill peeking out from behind the bushes.
