Southern Hospitality: The Southside keeps getting cooler and cooler. Take Wong Chuk Hang design hotel Ovolo Southside, opened back in 2014. The boutique hotel houses Mediterranean-style eatery CIRQLE, as well as rooftop bar Above.

Look & Feel: CIRQLE has stayed true to Ovolo Southside’s industrial chic aesthetic. It’s a vast space with communal tables as well as more intimate seating, and an outdoor terrace.

A night on the terrace

Meet the Chef: Executive Chef Krzysztof Bandel formerly worked as a head chef at Lily & Bloom and The Press Room Group.

On the Menu: The “modern alternative bistro” boasts a list of European classics with a twist. There’s something for everyone here, from decadent salads to heartier meat dishes like a 16oz Nebraska ribeye.

Service: Although we found service at the hotel a bit patchy, staff at CIRQLE are incredibly attentive — our water glasses were never empty.

Jeng: Thumbs up for solid food in an escapist setting. Trofie pasta with porcini mushrooms served with truffle oil and parmesan ($168) is a standout dish: the truffle oil’s dominating flavor works well with the short, twisted pasta.

Not So Jeng: The Lomi Lomi salmon with soy dressing ($110) was on the small side, although it came served with nachos. Maybe it’s because we are here on a Sunday night, but the place is so quiet that the vibe leaves a lot to be desired. To inject a bit of atmosphere, the restaurant could start by adding some art to the walls.

Great For: Avoiding Centralites, weekend escapes, alfresco dining.

FYI: CIRQLE’S Sunday brunch is a reasonable $298, including BBQ and seafood stations. Add $148 for free-flow wine and $288 for free-flow champagne and selected cocktails.

This writeup was based on an independent tasting. The Loop doesn’t guarantee/sell restaurant review coverage. See our editorial policy here.