Alliance Tavern

This space used to be occupied by Enology, a chic and trendy wine bar. Apparently after just a little over 1 year the owners decided that concept does not work for the location. In the beginning, it was bustling with younger customers, mostly SINKS (single income no kids). As the menu is not quite family friendly, it wasn't able to tap the neighborhood's main population: families.
As its competition; Cactus Cantina, Cafe Deluxe, 2 Amy's and Sushi Sushi, thrive on that particular demographic, it became obvious for Enology to change its Philosophy of its offerings. The change literally happened overnight, with the main difference being the warmer colors on its wall and no change in set-up. Alliance Tavern seats about 60-70 inside with, maybe, 20 at the bar....an additional 20 is possible on its deck outside. Several flat screen TVs adorn its bar as well as the dining area.

Previously the menu revolves around its wine menu: cheeses, charcuterie, light fare and plenty of "wine-flight" pairings. Currently, the menu is definitely geared for neighborhood and family friendly atmosphere. Its small menu is most likely due to its small kitchen, so being able to focus on the items that they can do very well. They offer 2 types of salads and soups, a few starters, a handful of main courses and a few sandwiches; there is even a small section of kid's menu. The wine selection is pretty extensive, ranging from decent American selections, South American, some European and Australian selections. The previous wine selection at Enology was by far a better collection. The pricing? Probably its best attribute; below $15 for main courses; all the wines are below $10/glass. In addition, their beer selection is pretty good with plenty of imported and microbrewery selections for the beer-phile. They also offer daily happy hour specials everynight until 7pm.
I opted for the Cioppino on my first visit; it's an italian version of the Bouillabaise: fish, shellfish, scallops and shrimp served in a tomato broth with garlic toasted country bread. A very simple preparation and presented very well. The taste? Good and refreshingly light. I also tried their Fish n Chips on another night; breaded pollock deep-fried and served with Tavern fries.
It's not very fishy in taste, light and filling. A friend who joined me for dinner had the chicken tenders served on a bed of Mac 'n' cheese. The chicken tenders were homemade; lightly breaded and not too greasy. The Mac 'n' cheese, however, though creamy, lacks taste.
Alliance Tavern offers a perfect blend of decent wine and beer selections and food just enough for it to be a neighborhood destination which it will need to thrive on.