G-Love
Not to be confused with one of my favorite bands, G. Love & Special Sauce, G-Love is a gem of a restaurant in the Slabtown neighborhood that’s always bustling as the food and service are outstanding.
G-Love calls their concept a “reverse steakhouse.” This means greater emphasis on smaller plates of flavorful sides and plenty of vegetarian options, with meat offerings in more appropriately sized portions. As a meat eater, but also a foodie, I love this as I don’t have to worry about not being able to try other flavorful, creative dishes because I’m too full on the meat!
They have many gluten free options, though oddly don’t label the GF choices on their regular dinner menu. After you’re seated though, they will happily walk you through the menu on the numerous safe items. I’ve shared an image of their dinner menu marked up below as a reference point. Note, the menu is subject to change, but this gives you an idea of just how many wonderful choices you have here, and many of these are mainstay items.
If I had to pick just one absolutely standout item to order here that’s always on the menu it’s the crusty avocado. I could easily eat 3 of these in one sitting, however I like to make room for the skewers and their amazing salads.
I recently had the opportunity to dine here again for their recently launched weekend brunch service and it was outstanding, as expected. Interestingly, they DO mark up their brunch menu online and in person with the GF menu choices so you can enjoy browsing and drooling over your options well in advance.
I ordered the steak and eggs as I was feeling a need for a little extra protein kick to recover from a recent injury. Again, with the reverse steakhouse concept, this is a more normal sized portion that won’t leave you feeling like you need to be rolled out on a stretcher afterwards. The spicy harissa on top of this was the perfect finishing touch!
My friend and I also split the gluten free hashbrowns, which are two super crusty, satisfyingly crunchy patties served with a side of creme fraiche with basil oil that was so deliciously unique. And of course a trip to G-Love wouldn’t be complete without a cocktail or two. I had the wonderfully refreshing classic Hugo Spritz to start and ended with their creative take on a espresso martini - the Figgy Stardust.
If you love cocktails, small bites and unique experiences, be sure to also check out their sister spot right next door - Love Shack. They do dim sum style service of both their food and mini-cocktails, wheeled around on a cart so it’s a wonderful spot to get some variety. You never know what they’re going to swing by with next! They also sell full sized cocktails and food to order here as well.
