01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Settling in at HO-bar begins with a complimentary snack of fried pasta sticks while browsing the opening drinks and appetizers. Between draft Heartland beer, sparkling pours, and an extensive bottled wine list, starting with a selection of small dishes sets the tone.
Cold appetizers feature staples such as potato salad laced with blue Gorgonzola cheese, thinly sliced octopus in a zesty dressing, and a rich combination of shrimp and avocado tossed with cream cheese. When in doubt, the four-item appetizer sampler offers a tasting of cold garlic-marinated shrimp and broccoli alongside cured ham.
Warm plates center on comforting flavors, notably barbecue-glazed spare ribs braised until the meat pulls effortlessly from the bone, a natural match for wine or highballs. Other tapas classics include oven-baked eggplant and tomatoes, anchovy cabbage, and red wine-braised beef cheeks served with mashed potatoes.
To finish, the carb options are substantial. Rich, inky squid ink risotto, fragrant porcini risotto, and mentaiko pasta showered with fresh shiso leaves round out the menu. For something punchier, garlic rice is also on hand, letting diners tailor their final dish to their appetite.
Counter seating sits alongside tables, and orders are placed conveniently via smartphone. It works just as smoothly for a shared dinner with friends as it does for dropping by late to sip another glass over house-made raisin butter and light bar bites.
