Located on the historic Chardon Square, Square Bistro is a relative newcomer, taking up residence just over two years ago. Opened by chef Jaret Havanchak (of Lure Bistro in Willoughby), Square Bistro occupies a nondescript Victorian-era storefront across from the county courthouse. Despite the rather bland exterior, squeezed into the row of buildings that line the square, the inside is warm and inviting, with a modern-rustic-chic decor (or something like that; I’m interested in the food, not the decor, though the tinned ceiling is nice). It’s a long and narrow space, with high ceilings and a large front window that ensures the inside is brighter than expected.
But on to the food. The menu definitely borrows from Havanchak’s experience with Lure, and there’s a nice selection of sushi/sashimi and Asian-inspired dishes. The overall flavor is new American, but there’s good variety, and a large selection. On this outing, we were there for the Wednesday night date special, which is a three-course meal (menu changes weekly) for two people for $45; not a bad deal at all.
