For the past 23 years, The Metro Wine Bar and Bistro has upheld its reputation for impeccable food, quality service and a constantly changing wine list to match its menu. Now in its 24th year, it’s still business as usual for this Nichols Hills landmark.
Upon entering The Metro, refined furnishings, traditional wood interior, contemporary art and calm lighting are among the first things patrons notice. According to Chris Lower, co-owner of The Metro, “It’s the most comfortable restaurant in town. Warm, cozy and inviting.”
Though The Metro began as a French restaurant, Lower now describes the style of food as American Bistro. With Chef de Cuisine Rolyn Soberanis at the helm for the past eight years, the menu has broadened to include Asian, Italian and American food prepared with French techniques.
Soberanis began his career as sous chef at The Metro and later completed an apprenticeship under Chef Kurt Fleischfresser at The Coach House. He then returned to the Metro as sous chef and was recently promoted to chef de cuisine.
“The menu changes every season,” says Lower. “It’s always excellent, with the freshest ingredients.” The lunch menu alone features a selection of appetizers, soups, salads, omelets, pastas and sandwiches. Try the local, farm-raised three-egg omelet, served with potatoes and fresh fruit. Or if you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, try the chicken breast with vermouth cream served over angel hair pasta with almonds, tomatoes and spinach.
For dinner, Lower suggests patrons sample the Steak Frites, a rib eye Béarnaise with garlic French fries, the cedar plank salmon with a mustard and brown sugar glaze or the sautéed tilapia in citrus butter.
“Oddly enough, our sautéed veal liver and onions is also a big favorite,” Lower explains. “Many people have told me to never take it off the menu because it’s the only place in town they can get it.”
The dessert menu includes a crème brulée, bread pudding and homemade ice creams, along with a chocolate Grand Marnier mousse with cinnamon crisp, fresh berries and whipped cream, among other selections.
In addition to The Metro’s stunning menu, it also hosts special events once a quarter.
“The Metro hosts winemaker dinners, where we bring in a specific winemaker from somewhere in the country, and we have Chef Rolyn prepare dinners to be paired with hand-selected wines,” Lower explains.
The Metro also hosts guest chefs, who create incredible menus for special occasions.
“Last month, we had a guest chef who worked with Mario Batali,” Lower says. If you’re interested in attending one of these dinners, visit the Metro’s website for more details.
To experience this casual elegance, stop in for a glass of wine and an appetizer or stay the evening for an exquisite meal. 6418 N. Western, Oklahoma City. www.metrowinebar.com.
