We were initially excited at the great happy hour drink specials. After drinking down over half of a very nice martini and not getting any bread or our soup after 35 minutes we asked the owner/chef for either our soup or bread. We received some toasted baguette with cheese then waited another 30 minutes for the soup. After an hour and a half and having to leave, we took our dinner away in a carry out only after we were told, "it will only be 2 more seconds". Not sure we'll go back. It's a shame, as we just moved two blocks away and are looking for a steady place to go. :-( One slight positive - with little food and happy hour drink, i'm glad I was walking home.
(2)
Laurie M.
They are open for Sunday brunch, though yelp doesn't say that yet. Went for brunch today and got good food, good service. Sat outside on there super comfy furniture. Had a great time. Will be back for dinner.
(4)
Lynn W.
Good neighborhood place--just wish it were in my hood! Almost sat outside, but it wasn't quite warm enough. Went with a Groupon wine tasting special, and enjoyed the atmosphere. As others have commented, the service can be slow, but it is friendly, and Pauline made a point of greeting us. The cheese plate was minimal, and the wine choice with the Groupon was limited, but what do you expect? Ordered a small plate of lentils and rice, which was good comfort food and came with a nice salad, for a great price. Would definitely go back if it were around the corner from me.
(4)
Alissa K.
Nice neighborhood place - delivers on the bistro feel. Friendly staff. Came here with a groupon and would def come back without one. Come here to relax and not be in a rush. Food is good to great. The ful is amazing. Will probably try the classic French omelette next time. Wines are also a good value for what u get.
(4)
Renee M.
Another one of those cozy gems you'll find in Canton. This place is two blocks up from my house which makes it super convenient. I went for the first time with a groupon deal for 2 cocktails, an appetizer, and 2 entrees and it did not disappoint! The drinks were creative and just enough kick to them to make you lightheaded. The theme is simple delicious and light Mediterranean flavors. The menu contained a few sandwich type items that I will definitely be back to try. Price for the quality is surprisingly inexpensive. And best of all is happy hour every day (except sun and mon when they are closed) til 8pm - try the sangria!
(4)
Sarah J.
After spending what seemed like a week in the car looking for parking during the Fells Point festival (not the event we were going to) last weekend Gitan Bistro Cru materialized just as we pulled into a spot. It was just what we need strong drinks, good food and a relaxed atmosphere. I had the Lulu from the bar menu, it was delicious and refreshing. The perfect fortification for Ring of Honor wrestling. Yes, hilarious indy wrestling trumps street festival. The bartender was also serving (as the place had just opened) and she was friendly and helpful, recommending drinks and discussing various Baltimore brewed beers they stocked. We started with the cheese plate and the marinated olives. The cheese plate was lovely and unpretentious none of the cheeses were stop you in your tracks amazing but they were very tasty and well thought out. The marinated olives were delicious. And they came with a sheeps milk feta that was knock your socks off amazing. I had the caviar d'aubergine as my main. It was delicious. Almost baba ganoush but not quite, there was a slight flavor difference. Either way it was delicious. My companion had the croquet madame and it was flawless. Terrific ham, delicious gruyere and a perfect egg. Given his aversion to green salad they happily subbed the mashed potatoes, which were riced more than mashed, a delicious accompaniment. Neither of us could have been happier. The service was calm and well paced. I highly recommend.
(4)
Ricardo A.
Went this past weekend to this amazing restaurant and couldn't get enough. I bought a groupon for 2 cheese platters and fruits and a bottle of wine but also stayed for dinner afterwards. From the time I walked in to the time i left everything went perfectly. The cheese and fruit platters were the largest i have ever received in a restaurant not to mention 3 different types of cheese and 4 different fruits. Combined it with a great 2011 malbec. For dinner we decided to to both get the shrimp scampi since there was only 4 choices to pick from. From the first bite of it i was hooked a nice large portion and finished it all. I've had shrimp scampi in a lot of restaurants and this one i can say was the best i have ever had. Our server was very nice but you could tell she was overwhelmed. She not only had to bartend for about 15 people at the bar and high chairs but also had to take care of about 30 other people in the dining area. Hopefully they get some more help with the waitstaff but although it did make it slow for the cheese platter and entree to come out i can not give it less then a 5 since the food was truly top notch.
(5)
Christina E.
Visited here on Sunday afternoon with a groupon for wine and cheese. The space had a nice intimate atmosphere and the staff was very friendly and attentive. The cheese plate was fantastic and I still can't get over how good the bread was. Crunchy on the outside but light and fluffy on the inside. The wine selection was nice for the groupon and I was very happy they had a French chardonnay instead of a California (personal preference for me). I would definitely come back here for a nice afternoon lunch again.
(5)
Andrew J.
This place is great! A friend was visiting from out of town, and she found a Groupon for wine and cheese here. I had never heard of the place, but it sounded like a fun idea. I'm so glad we went! We shared a great bottle of wine and some delicious cheese plates. The staff was really friendly and passionate about wine. The building is reeeeeally cool. It's a great environment for sipping wine with some friends.
(5)
Emily F.
The bartenders and owner are awesome, they'll remeber your name like a great neighborhood place. The foods delcious and the owner cooks it upstairs herself. It's a gem for brunch too. They have an all you can drink special you can order plus an option for all you can eat waffles. And theres never a wait like some places in Canton.
(4)
Adam C.
I have been here many times and it is quickly turning into one of my favorite local spots especially for brunch! The food is amazing. The combination of French and Lebanese influence makes for unique and flavorful dishes. The service is great. The bartenders are very friendly as is the owner who will be sure to come say hello. I will be definitely continue to frequent Gitan.
(5)
Yana C.
I'm starting to think there's a conspiracy here that all Groupon purchasers (for the "wine and cheese tasting") only receive a certain kind of cheese and fruit that requires a minimum of 30+ minutes of preparation. Does it really take that long to put 3 slices of cheese, some grapes, strawberries, bread, and fig jam on a plate? I always judge restaurants by how quickly and easily I could do something at home, and in this case I would likely have spent less energy buying a bottle from a nearby liquor store and throwing the plate together myself in 5 minutes. I don't necessarily think the issue here is bad service, just bad management. I say this after seeing the grumpy-looking manager walk in and then sit down at the bar and drink wine with friends loudly chatting while the lone waitress had to deal with all the customers and a problematic takeout order on the phone. The manager should have been helping her and making sure all the tables were being served, while instead we waited up to 10 minutes for the menu and water glasses, and then 30 minutes for the damn cheese. The menu looked interesting (though weird mix of French and Middle Eastern) and I really liked the sound of the Croque Madame but couldn't imagine how long that would take to come out. Do businesses that launch a Groupon not understand that this is their chance to build their PR, and that the "no such thing as bad PR" does NOT apply here? Probably shouldn't sign up for a bevy of new customers if you're not on your game yet.
(2)
Pat M.
Went here for the first time last night,with my main (okay, only) squeeze. I wanted to check out a place I'd not been, that had good reviews, had dishes both she and I would appreciate, and was nearby. Check, check, check, check...thanks, Yelp! Oh, and the special of a free hot wassail for checking in was a nice inducement as well! I'd been by Gitan numerous times previously, and was usually convinced to keep walking by when I saw the cloth tablecloths and few patrons. I'm generally not one for dressy, fancier restaurants, especially when so many excellent casual options are available near where I live. I was relieved to see numerous smiling, laughing,casually clad folks at the bar when we arrived, as well as a table of four occupied by folks dressed no better than us. We were greeted warmly when we arrived, and thoroughly appreciated how sweet and nice the lady that helped us was throughout our visit. When I mentioned the free wassail offer, she indicated that they don't really have it! However, after I described it to her, she readily offered to have a hot mulled wine whipped up for me, and it was indeed free -- and wonderfully tasty and warming on a cold Baltimore night. My lady and I ordered a number of small plates to share, and pretty much enjoyed the heck out of them. She's a big soup fan, and really dug the lentil lemon soup with spinach, carrots and celery. It came with a grilled cheese on a small baguette, which I found tasty. Other good stuff included the peasant classic (dried, crushed wheat in tomato, with a crisp small salad), stuffed grape leaves and baba ganoush. The price was right for what we ordered and the experience, and I was rather charmed by the seeming contradictory nature of the place, which looks like a classic, classy wine bar, yet had classic rock playing softly in the background. The smiling, friendly ladies that were working added to that charm, and compelled me to give a well-earned 5-star rating!
(5)
Ebony H.
Just left this gem of a place and I enjoyed every second of my visit. I went due to purchasing a groupon but will be going back even without a deal. The groupon just stated a cheese plate and wine. I had no clue it meant individual plates and a whole bottle of wine from pre-selected choices from he wine list. I wanted to try something different than you can get from american chain restaurants. I got baba ghanoush and falafel for appetizers and could not put a dent in it after taking in our cheese plate. My husband is an American food/ meat and potato type guy. He ordered the cheese steak and I got the Turkish sausage omelette (Courtney). He absolutely loved his dish and I the same. We had a ton of bread that we collected from our various dishes and this carb addict can't wait to ration the leftovers out for the rest of the week. The service was attentive without being overbearing. We met the owner and chef whom informed they have more of a schwarma and sandwich geared shop in Hampden which we will be sure to take the kids to doing. I loved the atmosphere and it reminded of my wonderful trip to France years ago. We were highly impressed and I will be going back to try more dishes.
(5)
Sarah H.
I had dinner here on a Thursday with a friend. The restaurant was about 60% full and everyone except us was a couple (hint: great date spot). We ordered the tomato and cucumber salad for an appetizer which was good but nothing special. They do give you a TON of bread. I also ordered a glass of red wine (can't remember what) and it was the weakest pour I've seen in a long time. I'm pretty sure I paid about $8 for 3 oz of wine...ugh. My friend and I decided to take the egg route for dinner. I got the Turkish sausage and my friend got the Shokshouka. Both we're pretty tasty but not anything out of this world, although the bread portions we're exceptionally huge. And yes, I drank red wine with eggs, don't judge me.
(4)
Mallory S.
Food was delicious. Great wine options. sangria was definitely the highlight but be prepared- SERVICE IS INSANELY SLOW! Do NOT go to Gitan if you are in any type for hurry. There is no way you could get out in less than an hour. With appetizers and dinner it took about 2 hours for 3 people. Waitstaff disappears often. They claim its part of their French charm. Food is good but be prepared it will take time to eat.
(3)
Kevin S.
First, this place has no TVs, a must for a wine bar (Silo.5% fails this test, btw). The food is simple for the most part, but done very well. The crocque madame was delicious, with fresh bread and quality meat and cheese. They have a brunch special on mimosas and a great selection of wines. Plus, the service is very friendly. I definitely recommend this place highly.
(5)
Amanda C.
Would not recommend. We had a groupon for this place and were extremely disappointed by their cheese course which was three individual slices of cheese which was suppose to provide for two people. The slices were so thin that they weren't even shareable between two people. We then ordered the olive dish which looked like it came out of a can. Lastly, we tried the cheese and spinach dip, which was nothing special and could have easily been made at home. To say the least I'm glad we had a groupon. The wine was good at least.
(1)
James K.
Gitan is a Lebanese influenced French bistro, which by itself makes it unique among so many variations on the Canton bar food theme. This is a restaurant where the owner personally selects the ingredients for freshness and quality, and you can tell. Bistro standards like the croque madame are excellent, as are more American influenced sandwiches like the cheesesteak. Where Gitan really shines is in traditional Mediteranean food like the shawarma and the haloumi. The shawarma in particular is outstanding. One area that has improved greatly over the year I have been regularly eating at Gitan (and one that was admittedly a problem) is food wait times. There have been occasions where I have had to wait a considerable time for my food. The owner is no longer the only person in the kitchen, and this seems to have fixed the problem. I haven't had any issues in the last 5-6 times I have eaten there, and honestly the food was good enough to keep me coming back even if I had to wait a bit. I just like it better now that I know I won't have to.
(4)
Sal P.
Fabulous. A great, classy joint perfect for date night or bringing acquaintances with unknown budget/food preferences! The menu has items for everyone and is exceptionally well-priced for the neighborhood, the ambiance, and the food. DON'T MISS: the baba ganoush, served with little crostini - delicious! Very well-balanced and the perfect texture (not too lumpy, not a yogurt). Also, soup/grilled cheese combo is FANTASTIC. The Lemon-Lentil soup was hearty, fresh, and complemented the baguette-style grilled chees very well. All in all, so glad we found this little gem! Easy parking on a Friday night, very friendly crew, and quality food.
(4)
Jen P.
Came here with a group of girls for a wine night, my first time at the restaurant, and we had a great experience! Cute wine bar! Food is mediterranean type small plates, but a big menu, lots of choices, and everything we ate was very good! You can BYO wine, and they charge you a $10 corking fee, or you can buy wine/liquor/beer from them. Their wine menu was nicer bottles of wine, so for the $10 corking fee we thought it was a good deal. The service was great, and I definitely can't wait to come back here!
(4)
Mina E.
Great restaurant. We went for dinner and sat outside. The food was delicious and the prices were very reasonable. As noted by some other reviews, they have a wide range of items for every level of hunger and budget. They also have great house cocktails.The service was a little slow, but we appreciated that it's more of a place to leisurely dine, not a place to go in a rush. We were very happy with everything we got - the stuffed grape leaves are great. They came with some fresh made hummus that was delicious. The french onion soup and Ful (fava bean dish) were also very good, as was the Lamb Shawarma sandwich. Definitely recommend for anyone who enjoys Mediterranean cuisine. We will definitely be going back!
(4)
Nicholas M.
We went in based on reviews from yelp and were very pleasantly surprised. The food was great, service better - an overall great meal. The owner seemed to know half of those entering and leaving, and clearly took care to ensure an enjoyable dining experience.
(5)
Jennifer H.
We sat outside and was immediately greeted by a server. We ordered a bottle of wine and a cheese plate. We wanted the Cava, but they were out, so we got the chardonnay. It came out right away, but came with nothing to keep it cold, so we had a bottle sitting on our table getting warm. The server came out and said, let me get something to keep that cold, and then disappeared and never came back. The cheese plate took 45 minutes to come out! Literally. By that time, we only had a little bit left of the bottle that we wanted to enjoy with the cheese. The worst part was that another couple came abut 20 minutes after us and also sat outside, and the server brought out our cheese plate with theirs. So we waited 45 minutes, and they got theirs right away. Would not go back here.
(2)
Supriya M.
We went here with a groupon type deal even though the menu is a bit all over the place. Overall, they were quite accommodating with our baby but the food was really all over the place. I personally thought all of their food was very very salty especially my lamb shwarma which I could not finish because of how salty it was. The service was good but they didn't ask us for dessert which is my mind is always a faux pas for a restaurant. Always ask about dessert! It's a nice neighborhood bar, quiet and solid but probably won't venture out there again as it was nothing special.
(3)
Madelynn G.
Great Bottomless Mimosa Brunch. You have the option of mimosas or blood marys, they do close at 3 PM on Sunday so get there early. Did not get a chance to try the food, but there wasn't a huge selection for brunch. Looking forward to going back.
(4)
Laura H.
This is absolutely my favorite place in baltimore. I love everything about it. The staff couldn't be friendlier and the food is amazing. It's made from scratch hence the wait (which isn't that bad!) I enjoy sitting back and relaxing with a glass of wine while I wait for an incredible meal. That seems to be the way everywhere else but America. Were always in a rush.
(5)
Jade O.
4.5 Stars. I really like this spot. It's sort of hard to explain, but walking in is like getting a hug...which only intensifies after a few glasses of red and the cool playlist they have going on. Know this: they usually have one or two servers, that's it. It's a comfortable place where, if you want a refill on your glass of wine, they bring the bottle and pour it tableside rather than taking your old empty glass and bringing you a shiny new filled one. Service is a little slower---pretend you're in a neighborhood hang out in France where dinner is hours long. Go with people you want to catch up with, Gitan will never rush you out. The food is good. The wine selection, although small, is inviting and delicious. Real thought was put in on their picks.
(4)
Jay R.
Pauline is the best conversationalist. Gitan is our Go-To restaurant/bistro in all of Baltimore City. When we are driving back to Baltimore, we think about where we will go to enjoy a casual, delicious meal and drinks. GITAN! No reservations needed. We LOVE Gitan. And, you will, too. Jay in Butchers Hill.
(5)
Andrew H.
This is a great, cozy, chill corner spot in the Canton neighborhood. We live within walking distance and frequent Gitan often. The food is solid (Haloumi for an appetizer and the Lamb Shawarma are my go-tos). The wine menu is extensive enough (especially for me, as I'm not overly picky with wine), and they have a rotating tap (3-4) of mostly local beers. Pauline (the owner and chef) is incredibly friendly and is always up for some good conversation. Ashley, the main bartender, is usually running the show up front and can make some great cocktails. A disclaimer: As mentioned, we live in the neighborhood and go to Gitan not only for its food and drinks but also to support it as a local business. Plus, it's incredibly convenient for us, and we have grown to love the people who run it. That being said, if you do go on a busy evening, you'll probably find yourself waiting a bit longer than usual given only 2-3 people (Ashley, Pauline, + 1 or 2 others) are running the show. For us, this hardly matters as we always know this ahead of time and are also going to socialize. If you're wanting super quick service (and the restaurant is busy), you're expectations might not be met. **Also, if you need a quality bottle of vino to go, they will sell you whatever you need (around $10 below the menu price).
(5)
Terique S.
Amazing atmosphere and great food. Had the Groupon cheese and simply naked wine. Love the service and the location is great. A must go !!. Buy a bottle and decorate it once you've drank it all lol. Very nice place
(5)
Jonathan D.
Like a few other groups in the restaurant, my wife and I came to this corner local after purchasing a groupon (or living social) certificate. It was for a cheese plate and a bottle of wine. We arrived on a picture perfect spring evening, the door was swung open and the light was shining on the long bar along the left. We immediately liked the place, sat at the bar, and ordered the cheese and wine. The wine was surprisingly good (after all it was a groupon deal) but the cheese plate was ok at best, and took a surprisingly long time to arrive. (They seem to prepare the food upstairs). We eventually order two other appetizers. What we liked: 1. Ambiance. Cozy and Mediterranean. A really cute place. 2. Music. Fit perfectly the atmosphere. 3. Food. The apps, Baba Ghanoush and Kefta, were outstanding. What we didn't care for: 1. There were two employees, both friendly enough. But the guy's enthusiasm was better fitted for Hooters, and it kinda killed the feel of the place. The woman didn't seem to want to be there and appeared to know little about the menu items or the beers. 2. Know what is out of stock and tell the patrons BEFORE they take the time to choose something and learn the beer menu. At the table behind us a woman ordered a beer that was on the menu only to discover that it was out of stock. She then asked the waitress to recommend another like that beer. No clue. This place can be an easy 4 with a little more work in the staff department. We plan on going back because the menu looked fantastic.
(3)
Cassandra S.
A lovely and relaxing dinner here last night after getting a groupon here. I've honestly driven past it about 20 times but didn't put two and two together until we arrived. We were seated right away by Ashley who went on to make our night easy and memorable. I will go to the ends of the earth for service and find it lacking here in the states but last night we had excellent service thanks wholly to our cute little Ashley. We ordered the cheese plate (not too Wow, but okay), wine (a delicious Malbec), grape leaves (made with chic peas but with a perfectly seasoned side salad) and my FAVORITE: holloumi cheese!! All plates come with crispy little crostinis...I think everything is made upstairs of this converted town home by an adorable little Greek woman. We will be back!!
(5)
Elizabeth S.
I love this place. It has a very laid back, cozy, neighborhood vibe and outstanding food. Seriously, everything on the menu is delicious. The owner cooks every meal herself in the upstairs kitchen, so allow some time for the food to come out. The atmosphere is very casual, nothing is rushed or hurried. The wine list is not super extensive, but it is all hand picked and again, very good. The beer list is limited (it's a wine bar) but usually consists of some great local brews. This is a perfect place to sit, relax, and enjoy the company of the people you're with.
(5)
Joe A.
My wife and I had a groupon for this place. I was excited being that I have a french heritage and with a name like Gitan Bistro I couldn't resist getting it. As soon as we walked in we were greeted by the owner and bartender. The atmosphere was very relaxing and it suited the cuisine. The bartender Judd I believe was his name, was very friendly. We were served our bottle of wine and ordered the cheese plates. He made it very clear that the food was all made to order and would take time. In a place like this you do not feel rushed, so if you plan on going do not expect a quick dinner. The cheese plate was very nice and was accompanied by fresh fruit and a nice fig jam. After looking at the menu we decided to try the small plates and a soup to get a feel for the cuisine. The grape leaves were perfectly warm and tender. We also had the peasants classic that came with a small salad and it was very good. Then we moved to a cucumber and tomato salad and french onion soup. I make it a point to try french onion soup at every restaurant I go to that serves it and this has taken the number 1 spot for me. Elapsed time at this point was an hour and 15 minutes, but to be fair my wife took 25 minutes deciding(not kidding). We were then talked into desert which really wasn't a hard sell. The Tiramisu was very good and moist. After we cashed out we walked around the exterior and wished we had sat outside. It is a nice city neighborhood with gorgeous outside seating. There are lots of dog people that pass by so if you're a dog person like we are, it will make it that much more enjoyable. All in all this place for us is a solid 10 out of 10. Thanks to groupon, me and my wife have found our new favorite restaurant.
(5)
Justin K.
So my wife and I decided to make this an early stop on Saturday and actually try out the place. The interior of the restaurant is very nice, they put a lot of work into. The bathrooms and the seating area in the back of the restaurant is also very cool. We were greeted promptly and sat at the bar. The bartender was very nice and helpful with the menu and questions we had. At first glance the beer menu is not that great, but then at second glance it was still...not that great. Oh well, it is supposed to be a wine bar. We each ordered a glass of wine. The Wine selection was decent but nothing crazy. The food: We started out with the cheese plate and the bartender let us try the hummus because she said it was fantastic. I have to agree, the hummus was awesome and the cheese selections they had were pretty good as well. Next we moved onto the fried haolumi. This is one of my favorite cheeses. It was pretty pan seared and served with a tomato, onions and capers mix. It was delicious. Then we decided to split a sandwich. The sandwich had a fancy name but I can't remember it. I can tell you it had ham, cheese and a fried egg on top. It was a pretty good sandwich, but ended up being a little dry. Quick tip: I was told that when you purchase a bottle of wine, you can sign it or do whatever to the bottle and then they will display it on the wall. Cool decorating idea. Overall the place was nice, nothing that blew my socks off. But I will come back and give this place another try. I want to get creative with a wine bottle.
(3)
Stephanie M.
I found Gitan Bistro Cru through a Groupon. We decided to grab drinks and appetizers here for our anniversary. The cheese plate left something to be desired. None of the cheeses really stood out either way. The grape leaf rolls on the other hand were really good. If you like creamy cheesy tomato soups then you have to try their tomato soup with the grilled cheese. If you like the standard Campbell's tomato soup - you might want to find something else. They have some awesome seating towards the back with comfortable chairs. On a sunny day they will open the door and let the breeze roll through. It was fantastic. The only downside to this little alcove is, while some what removed from the rest of the bistro, it was near the rest room so you got to see everyone coming and going (no pun intended). If I was in the area again, and the alcove was available, I'd grab a drink.
(3)
Shannon B.
We came here with high expectations and it turned out to be an utter disappointment. The service was terrible, when we ordered soups the server came out with a complimentary app after 20 minutes and told us they were out of the seafood bisque. Cocktails took a while, the specials weren't even mentioned until we asked. The decor and the menu need Anton of work. Not sure we will return. The only good thing about the place are the creative cocktails.
(1)
Kimberly B.
Great date spot. Good atmosphere, friendly staff, pleasantly unique. I will definitely visit again.
(5)
H H.
Went here with a group of 6 people. We broached the fun barrier early as I had a "Hello Kitty" aka Missy Cat sticking out of my jacket. The bartender took note of this. The food was excellent and the service was good despite the bartender having to pull double duty as the server/bar tender. I didn't see beer on the menu but didn't ask because the cocktails were good, I'd recommend the Bayne of Your Existence. They also had what looked like a good wine list, but I don't drink wine that much so I'm not sure. Though, the bar seemed to have a stocking issue, there were several wines and cocktail ingredients that had gone dry. The bartender handled it well and everyone was happy in the end. The food was excellent. For an appetizer we tried the hummus, kefta, and fried cheese. The fried cheese was definitely a big hit. I got the seafood bisque as the main course and it was very good, though I didn't care for the very salty fish spread topping on the bread.
(4)
H G.
Highly recommend this place. Definitely get the Grape Leaves appetizer, it's delicious. The Lemon Garlic Salmon for the entre was perfectly cooked and delicious.
(4)
Rachel C.
I was surprised to find it relatively empty on a Saturday night around 6:30. We sat at the bar and enjoyed chatting with and recommendations from our friendly (and very good) bartender. The ambience is nice (tablecloths!), and prices are reasonable. There's even a happy hour on a Saturday night -- unheard of! Food was tasty and portions were right. I'd highly recommend the cheese plate -- it came with four types of cheese, each of which our bartender explained, as well as sliced bread, pineapple, cantaloupe and grapes. Only negative: It took at least 20 minutes to get the cheese plate, then at least another 30-45 to get our dinner. Fortunately, we weren't in a rush! A funny addendum: As we exited the restaurant, a woman walking on the next block called out to us in a french accent, "Hello! How was your dinner?!" We're assuming she's the owner or chef?
(4)
C E.
This place is honestly amazing. Well worth the wait. The grilled cheese and tomato soup was amazing, I would come back for it everyday! It's a small cozy place, and the chef is the owner, and puts a lot of care and work into each dish!
I am SO happy that a place as nice as this opened up across the street from my house. (Not so sure my waistline will be as happy, though!) My fiance and I went here with another couple and were absolutely delighted with everything about it. First, let me start by saying that Gitan isn't a restaurant you go to if you have to be somewhere else later. Dinner service for us (with drinks, appetizers, main courses, and dessert) took three hours on a Saturday evening, but we didn't mind one bit. Here, the food, wine, and conversation are to be savored without rushing. The experience is very reminiscent of dining out in Europe, where no one is trying to turn over your table or bothering you every five minutes. The waitstaff is attentive without being overbearing. And the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and and just enjoying yourself. And the food. Oh, the food! We tried a variety of starters and main dishes, and everything was amazing. Here's our list: the Mediterranean salad, pate, French onion soup (to die for), cassoulet (enormous, hearty, and satisfying), Lorraine omelette, lemon-garlic chicken, and the fish special (fluke) in a very tasty lemon-white wine sauce. The main dishes are generally big enough to satisfy the appetite without feeling overstuffed, but if you add starters and dessert to your meal, be prepared to go home very full. The wine list is well-edited, and none of the waitstaff will fault you for not being able to pronounce something. Speaking of, they are friendly and knowledgeable while still being extraordinarily professional. Beyond the wine, though, there's a cocktail menu that's part classics, part new inventions. I had a drink (but can't remember the name) with muddled lemon and basil, potato vodka, and St. Germain (I think). It was very good and *very* strong! All in all, this is a fantastic addition to the neighborhood. Expect slow, relaxed service as the kitchen is very small. The restaurant itself is also very small and doesn't take reservations for parties under six, so get there early to nab a table. We came at 7:00 and got one of the last open spots. If you're driving instead of walking here, I'll add a neighborhood tip: if you can't find a spot on the street, you can park at the Can Company garage -- for free -- and walk just a few blocks to Gitan.
(5)
Thaner A.
The food was tasty. Drinks were excellent. However, the only problem is that the service and food preparation takes a long time to be made.
(3)
Morgan M.
The food here is excellent! Tried many different plates tonight --- from dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) to charcuterie to omelet to french onion soup, everything was seasoned perfectly and delicious! Service was spot on and decor was nice too. Small outdoor area to sit and quiet inside. My friends and I shared a bottle of wine and left very full and satisfied. This is a nice place to go for a quiet dinner in Canton if you are not up for the busy bar scene at the square. Would definitely go here again if I was in the mood for french/mediterranean fare.
(4)
Katherine S.
Went back again, and the decor has been fixed up nicely -- the empty wall I mentioned is now filled with a cool wine rack, and the lights are dimmer. Really great atmosphere now, and they have a bartender/mixologist who came from 13.5% in Hampden, and makes super delish cocktails. And the food was also very good the second time, with several interesting specials (rabbit, a cassoulet, and a couple of others). Highly recommended.
(5)
Angela T.
Oh Gitan...how my stomach and liver love you (Even my wallet!). I can't speak highly enough of this place. My friends and I knew the bartender (Ashley) from another bar that closed and followed her here to Gitan. The decor is is very stylish and relaxing with dark woods and tones. They have a wine rack on half the bar where they put empty signed wine bottles. (My group is determined to fill the entire wall to prove what alcoholics we are) All the wines are fantastic, all the mixed drinks are as well and are constantly being made up by the bartender (if you're lucky you could be the guiney pig). I would personally recommend the chocolate double espresso martini. yuummmy As someone else mentioned, this is not the place to go if you're looking for a quick meal. It does have a very European feel to it where you can sit back and just relax with your amazing food. I suppose you could get faster service if you wanted to, but honestly that would be ruining the experience. I've tried the majority of things on the menu and they are all fantastic. Everything is pretty reasonably priced especially considering the quality of food you're getting. The steak is $22 and you get a large portion of meat, potatoes and veggies and it's also one of the best steaks I've ever had. So long story short, grab a date or group of friends, have a delicious meal, get drunk of wine, and have a delicious dessert and some french press coffee. And if you see 3 or 4 hot 25 year olds at the bar with a couple bottles of wine, that's us.
(5)
Michelle S.
We have been to Gitan twice now as we are part of the two block away group. The first time we went we sat at the bar after work during the week. I was blown away by the friendly nature of everyone working in Gitan and the food! I ordered the croque Madame which I highly recommend. My husband had an omelet which was great. After having such a wonderful time we decided to invite a group of friends out after work on Friday. I called and they reserved th lower area for us. We had 10 people and just loved it! We had 4-5 bottles of wine and great food (French onion soup, croque Madame, grape leaves and more... As there is nothing subpar on their menu!). This will be somewhere we frequent often. I am thankful we now have a place in the neighborhood that feels los home in New Orleans.
(5)
Marcus S.
Overall, a wonderful experience. At first, the menu seemed a bit limited; however every item we tried was crafted with great quality and precision. The beverage selection was also extensive. I would highly recommend any of the sandwiches. The only unfortunate aspect was that I dot eat pork and therefore was fairly restricted in terms of exploring the menu.
(4)
Michelle F.
I highly recommend this quaint cozy corner bar. This was my first visit to Gitan with my husband, and we used a Groupon. Went around 7:00 sat right down and was greeted by Heather our Barmaid/Waitress who is awesome. We had a bottle of chilled Mascoto and Cheese tray (which was very good) Also, we ordered the "Dad's Garlic Shrimp" and Cucumber & Tomatoe's which were even better. The olive oil and her mixture for the Shrimp was so good I could have licked the plate. We will definitely be returning. They just start a Sunday Brunch so we have to try that.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Music : Background Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Wed, Thu, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes
Stan S.
We were initially excited at the great happy hour drink specials. After drinking down over half of a very nice martini and not getting any bread or our soup after 35 minutes we asked the owner/chef for either our soup or bread. We received some toasted baguette with cheese then waited another 30 minutes for the soup. After an hour and a half and having to leave, we took our dinner away in a carry out only after we were told, "it will only be 2 more seconds". Not sure we'll go back. It's a shame, as we just moved two blocks away and are looking for a steady place to go. :-( One slight positive - with little food and happy hour drink, i'm glad I was walking home.
(2)Laurie M.
They are open for Sunday brunch, though yelp doesn't say that yet. Went for brunch today and got good food, good service. Sat outside on there super comfy furniture. Had a great time. Will be back for dinner.
(4)Lynn W.
Good neighborhood place--just wish it were in my hood! Almost sat outside, but it wasn't quite warm enough. Went with a Groupon wine tasting special, and enjoyed the atmosphere. As others have commented, the service can be slow, but it is friendly, and Pauline made a point of greeting us. The cheese plate was minimal, and the wine choice with the Groupon was limited, but what do you expect? Ordered a small plate of lentils and rice, which was good comfort food and came with a nice salad, for a great price. Would definitely go back if it were around the corner from me.
(4)Alissa K.
Nice neighborhood place - delivers on the bistro feel. Friendly staff. Came here with a groupon and would def come back without one. Come here to relax and not be in a rush. Food is good to great. The ful is amazing. Will probably try the classic French omelette next time. Wines are also a good value for what u get.
(4)Renee M.
Another one of those cozy gems you'll find in Canton. This place is two blocks up from my house which makes it super convenient. I went for the first time with a groupon deal for 2 cocktails, an appetizer, and 2 entrees and it did not disappoint! The drinks were creative and just enough kick to them to make you lightheaded. The theme is simple delicious and light Mediterranean flavors. The menu contained a few sandwich type items that I will definitely be back to try. Price for the quality is surprisingly inexpensive. And best of all is happy hour every day (except sun and mon when they are closed) til 8pm - try the sangria!
(4)Sarah J.
After spending what seemed like a week in the car looking for parking during the Fells Point festival (not the event we were going to) last weekend Gitan Bistro Cru materialized just as we pulled into a spot. It was just what we need strong drinks, good food and a relaxed atmosphere. I had the Lulu from the bar menu, it was delicious and refreshing. The perfect fortification for Ring of Honor wrestling. Yes, hilarious indy wrestling trumps street festival. The bartender was also serving (as the place had just opened) and she was friendly and helpful, recommending drinks and discussing various Baltimore brewed beers they stocked. We started with the cheese plate and the marinated olives. The cheese plate was lovely and unpretentious none of the cheeses were stop you in your tracks amazing but they were very tasty and well thought out. The marinated olives were delicious. And they came with a sheeps milk feta that was knock your socks off amazing. I had the caviar d'aubergine as my main. It was delicious. Almost baba ganoush but not quite, there was a slight flavor difference. Either way it was delicious. My companion had the croquet madame and it was flawless. Terrific ham, delicious gruyere and a perfect egg. Given his aversion to green salad they happily subbed the mashed potatoes, which were riced more than mashed, a delicious accompaniment. Neither of us could have been happier. The service was calm and well paced. I highly recommend.
(4)Ricardo A.
Went this past weekend to this amazing restaurant and couldn't get enough. I bought a groupon for 2 cheese platters and fruits and a bottle of wine but also stayed for dinner afterwards. From the time I walked in to the time i left everything went perfectly. The cheese and fruit platters were the largest i have ever received in a restaurant not to mention 3 different types of cheese and 4 different fruits. Combined it with a great 2011 malbec. For dinner we decided to to both get the shrimp scampi since there was only 4 choices to pick from. From the first bite of it i was hooked a nice large portion and finished it all. I've had shrimp scampi in a lot of restaurants and this one i can say was the best i have ever had. Our server was very nice but you could tell she was overwhelmed. She not only had to bartend for about 15 people at the bar and high chairs but also had to take care of about 30 other people in the dining area. Hopefully they get some more help with the waitstaff but although it did make it slow for the cheese platter and entree to come out i can not give it less then a 5 since the food was truly top notch.
(5)Christina E.
Visited here on Sunday afternoon with a groupon for wine and cheese. The space had a nice intimate atmosphere and the staff was very friendly and attentive. The cheese plate was fantastic and I still can't get over how good the bread was. Crunchy on the outside but light and fluffy on the inside. The wine selection was nice for the groupon and I was very happy they had a French chardonnay instead of a California (personal preference for me). I would definitely come back here for a nice afternoon lunch again.
(5)Andrew J.
This place is great! A friend was visiting from out of town, and she found a Groupon for wine and cheese here. I had never heard of the place, but it sounded like a fun idea. I'm so glad we went! We shared a great bottle of wine and some delicious cheese plates. The staff was really friendly and passionate about wine. The building is reeeeeally cool. It's a great environment for sipping wine with some friends.
(5)Emily F.
The bartenders and owner are awesome, they'll remeber your name like a great neighborhood place. The foods delcious and the owner cooks it upstairs herself. It's a gem for brunch too. They have an all you can drink special you can order plus an option for all you can eat waffles. And theres never a wait like some places in Canton.
(4)Adam C.
I have been here many times and it is quickly turning into one of my favorite local spots especially for brunch! The food is amazing. The combination of French and Lebanese influence makes for unique and flavorful dishes. The service is great. The bartenders are very friendly as is the owner who will be sure to come say hello. I will be definitely continue to frequent Gitan.
(5)Yana C.
I'm starting to think there's a conspiracy here that all Groupon purchasers (for the "wine and cheese tasting") only receive a certain kind of cheese and fruit that requires a minimum of 30+ minutes of preparation. Does it really take that long to put 3 slices of cheese, some grapes, strawberries, bread, and fig jam on a plate? I always judge restaurants by how quickly and easily I could do something at home, and in this case I would likely have spent less energy buying a bottle from a nearby liquor store and throwing the plate together myself in 5 minutes. I don't necessarily think the issue here is bad service, just bad management. I say this after seeing the grumpy-looking manager walk in and then sit down at the bar and drink wine with friends loudly chatting while the lone waitress had to deal with all the customers and a problematic takeout order on the phone. The manager should have been helping her and making sure all the tables were being served, while instead we waited up to 10 minutes for the menu and water glasses, and then 30 minutes for the damn cheese. The menu looked interesting (though weird mix of French and Middle Eastern) and I really liked the sound of the Croque Madame but couldn't imagine how long that would take to come out. Do businesses that launch a Groupon not understand that this is their chance to build their PR, and that the "no such thing as bad PR" does NOT apply here? Probably shouldn't sign up for a bevy of new customers if you're not on your game yet.
(2)Pat M.
Went here for the first time last night,with my main (okay, only) squeeze. I wanted to check out a place I'd not been, that had good reviews, had dishes both she and I would appreciate, and was nearby. Check, check, check, check...thanks, Yelp! Oh, and the special of a free hot wassail for checking in was a nice inducement as well! I'd been by Gitan numerous times previously, and was usually convinced to keep walking by when I saw the cloth tablecloths and few patrons. I'm generally not one for dressy, fancier restaurants, especially when so many excellent casual options are available near where I live. I was relieved to see numerous smiling, laughing,casually clad folks at the bar when we arrived, as well as a table of four occupied by folks dressed no better than us. We were greeted warmly when we arrived, and thoroughly appreciated how sweet and nice the lady that helped us was throughout our visit. When I mentioned the free wassail offer, she indicated that they don't really have it! However, after I described it to her, she readily offered to have a hot mulled wine whipped up for me, and it was indeed free -- and wonderfully tasty and warming on a cold Baltimore night. My lady and I ordered a number of small plates to share, and pretty much enjoyed the heck out of them. She's a big soup fan, and really dug the lentil lemon soup with spinach, carrots and celery. It came with a grilled cheese on a small baguette, which I found tasty. Other good stuff included the peasant classic (dried, crushed wheat in tomato, with a crisp small salad), stuffed grape leaves and baba ganoush. The price was right for what we ordered and the experience, and I was rather charmed by the seeming contradictory nature of the place, which looks like a classic, classy wine bar, yet had classic rock playing softly in the background. The smiling, friendly ladies that were working added to that charm, and compelled me to give a well-earned 5-star rating!
(5)Ebony H.
Just left this gem of a place and I enjoyed every second of my visit. I went due to purchasing a groupon but will be going back even without a deal. The groupon just stated a cheese plate and wine. I had no clue it meant individual plates and a whole bottle of wine from pre-selected choices from he wine list. I wanted to try something different than you can get from american chain restaurants. I got baba ghanoush and falafel for appetizers and could not put a dent in it after taking in our cheese plate. My husband is an American food/ meat and potato type guy. He ordered the cheese steak and I got the Turkish sausage omelette (Courtney). He absolutely loved his dish and I the same. We had a ton of bread that we collected from our various dishes and this carb addict can't wait to ration the leftovers out for the rest of the week. The service was attentive without being overbearing. We met the owner and chef whom informed they have more of a schwarma and sandwich geared shop in Hampden which we will be sure to take the kids to doing. I loved the atmosphere and it reminded of my wonderful trip to France years ago. We were highly impressed and I will be going back to try more dishes.
(5)Sarah H.
I had dinner here on a Thursday with a friend. The restaurant was about 60% full and everyone except us was a couple (hint: great date spot). We ordered the tomato and cucumber salad for an appetizer which was good but nothing special. They do give you a TON of bread. I also ordered a glass of red wine (can't remember what) and it was the weakest pour I've seen in a long time. I'm pretty sure I paid about $8 for 3 oz of wine...ugh. My friend and I decided to take the egg route for dinner. I got the Turkish sausage and my friend got the Shokshouka. Both we're pretty tasty but not anything out of this world, although the bread portions we're exceptionally huge. And yes, I drank red wine with eggs, don't judge me.
(4)Mallory S.
Food was delicious. Great wine options. sangria was definitely the highlight but be prepared- SERVICE IS INSANELY SLOW! Do NOT go to Gitan if you are in any type for hurry. There is no way you could get out in less than an hour. With appetizers and dinner it took about 2 hours for 3 people. Waitstaff disappears often. They claim its part of their French charm. Food is good but be prepared it will take time to eat.
(3)Kevin S.
First, this place has no TVs, a must for a wine bar (Silo.5% fails this test, btw). The food is simple for the most part, but done very well. The crocque madame was delicious, with fresh bread and quality meat and cheese. They have a brunch special on mimosas and a great selection of wines. Plus, the service is very friendly. I definitely recommend this place highly.
(5)Amanda C.
Would not recommend. We had a groupon for this place and were extremely disappointed by their cheese course which was three individual slices of cheese which was suppose to provide for two people. The slices were so thin that they weren't even shareable between two people. We then ordered the olive dish which looked like it came out of a can. Lastly, we tried the cheese and spinach dip, which was nothing special and could have easily been made at home. To say the least I'm glad we had a groupon. The wine was good at least.
(1)James K.
Gitan is a Lebanese influenced French bistro, which by itself makes it unique among so many variations on the Canton bar food theme. This is a restaurant where the owner personally selects the ingredients for freshness and quality, and you can tell. Bistro standards like the croque madame are excellent, as are more American influenced sandwiches like the cheesesteak. Where Gitan really shines is in traditional Mediteranean food like the shawarma and the haloumi. The shawarma in particular is outstanding. One area that has improved greatly over the year I have been regularly eating at Gitan (and one that was admittedly a problem) is food wait times. There have been occasions where I have had to wait a considerable time for my food. The owner is no longer the only person in the kitchen, and this seems to have fixed the problem. I haven't had any issues in the last 5-6 times I have eaten there, and honestly the food was good enough to keep me coming back even if I had to wait a bit. I just like it better now that I know I won't have to.
(4)Sal P.
Fabulous. A great, classy joint perfect for date night or bringing acquaintances with unknown budget/food preferences! The menu has items for everyone and is exceptionally well-priced for the neighborhood, the ambiance, and the food. DON'T MISS: the baba ganoush, served with little crostini - delicious! Very well-balanced and the perfect texture (not too lumpy, not a yogurt). Also, soup/grilled cheese combo is FANTASTIC. The Lemon-Lentil soup was hearty, fresh, and complemented the baguette-style grilled chees very well. All in all, so glad we found this little gem! Easy parking on a Friday night, very friendly crew, and quality food.
(4)Jen P.
Came here with a group of girls for a wine night, my first time at the restaurant, and we had a great experience! Cute wine bar! Food is mediterranean type small plates, but a big menu, lots of choices, and everything we ate was very good! You can BYO wine, and they charge you a $10 corking fee, or you can buy wine/liquor/beer from them. Their wine menu was nicer bottles of wine, so for the $10 corking fee we thought it was a good deal. The service was great, and I definitely can't wait to come back here!
(4)Mina E.
Great restaurant. We went for dinner and sat outside. The food was delicious and the prices were very reasonable. As noted by some other reviews, they have a wide range of items for every level of hunger and budget. They also have great house cocktails.The service was a little slow, but we appreciated that it's more of a place to leisurely dine, not a place to go in a rush. We were very happy with everything we got - the stuffed grape leaves are great. They came with some fresh made hummus that was delicious. The french onion soup and Ful (fava bean dish) were also very good, as was the Lamb Shawarma sandwich. Definitely recommend for anyone who enjoys Mediterranean cuisine. We will definitely be going back!
(4)Nicholas M.
We went in based on reviews from yelp and were very pleasantly surprised. The food was great, service better - an overall great meal. The owner seemed to know half of those entering and leaving, and clearly took care to ensure an enjoyable dining experience.
(5)Jennifer H.
We sat outside and was immediately greeted by a server. We ordered a bottle of wine and a cheese plate. We wanted the Cava, but they were out, so we got the chardonnay. It came out right away, but came with nothing to keep it cold, so we had a bottle sitting on our table getting warm. The server came out and said, let me get something to keep that cold, and then disappeared and never came back. The cheese plate took 45 minutes to come out! Literally. By that time, we only had a little bit left of the bottle that we wanted to enjoy with the cheese. The worst part was that another couple came abut 20 minutes after us and also sat outside, and the server brought out our cheese plate with theirs. So we waited 45 minutes, and they got theirs right away. Would not go back here.
(2)Supriya M.
We went here with a groupon type deal even though the menu is a bit all over the place. Overall, they were quite accommodating with our baby but the food was really all over the place. I personally thought all of their food was very very salty especially my lamb shwarma which I could not finish because of how salty it was. The service was good but they didn't ask us for dessert which is my mind is always a faux pas for a restaurant. Always ask about dessert! It's a nice neighborhood bar, quiet and solid but probably won't venture out there again as it was nothing special.
(3)Madelynn G.
Great Bottomless Mimosa Brunch. You have the option of mimosas or blood marys, they do close at 3 PM on Sunday so get there early. Did not get a chance to try the food, but there wasn't a huge selection for brunch. Looking forward to going back.
(4)Laura H.
This is absolutely my favorite place in baltimore. I love everything about it. The staff couldn't be friendlier and the food is amazing. It's made from scratch hence the wait (which isn't that bad!) I enjoy sitting back and relaxing with a glass of wine while I wait for an incredible meal. That seems to be the way everywhere else but America. Were always in a rush.
(5)Jade O.
4.5 Stars. I really like this spot. It's sort of hard to explain, but walking in is like getting a hug...which only intensifies after a few glasses of red and the cool playlist they have going on. Know this: they usually have one or two servers, that's it. It's a comfortable place where, if you want a refill on your glass of wine, they bring the bottle and pour it tableside rather than taking your old empty glass and bringing you a shiny new filled one. Service is a little slower---pretend you're in a neighborhood hang out in France where dinner is hours long. Go with people you want to catch up with, Gitan will never rush you out. The food is good. The wine selection, although small, is inviting and delicious. Real thought was put in on their picks.
(4)Jay R.
Pauline is the best conversationalist. Gitan is our Go-To restaurant/bistro in all of Baltimore City. When we are driving back to Baltimore, we think about where we will go to enjoy a casual, delicious meal and drinks. GITAN! No reservations needed. We LOVE Gitan. And, you will, too. Jay in Butchers Hill.
(5)Andrew H.
This is a great, cozy, chill corner spot in the Canton neighborhood. We live within walking distance and frequent Gitan often. The food is solid (Haloumi for an appetizer and the Lamb Shawarma are my go-tos). The wine menu is extensive enough (especially for me, as I'm not overly picky with wine), and they have a rotating tap (3-4) of mostly local beers. Pauline (the owner and chef) is incredibly friendly and is always up for some good conversation. Ashley, the main bartender, is usually running the show up front and can make some great cocktails. A disclaimer: As mentioned, we live in the neighborhood and go to Gitan not only for its food and drinks but also to support it as a local business. Plus, it's incredibly convenient for us, and we have grown to love the people who run it. That being said, if you do go on a busy evening, you'll probably find yourself waiting a bit longer than usual given only 2-3 people (Ashley, Pauline, + 1 or 2 others) are running the show. For us, this hardly matters as we always know this ahead of time and are also going to socialize. If you're wanting super quick service (and the restaurant is busy), you're expectations might not be met. **Also, if you need a quality bottle of vino to go, they will sell you whatever you need (around $10 below the menu price).
(5)Terique S.
Amazing atmosphere and great food. Had the Groupon cheese and simply naked wine. Love the service and the location is great. A must go !!. Buy a bottle and decorate it once you've drank it all lol. Very nice place
(5)Jonathan D.
Like a few other groups in the restaurant, my wife and I came to this corner local after purchasing a groupon (or living social) certificate. It was for a cheese plate and a bottle of wine. We arrived on a picture perfect spring evening, the door was swung open and the light was shining on the long bar along the left. We immediately liked the place, sat at the bar, and ordered the cheese and wine. The wine was surprisingly good (after all it was a groupon deal) but the cheese plate was ok at best, and took a surprisingly long time to arrive. (They seem to prepare the food upstairs). We eventually order two other appetizers. What we liked: 1. Ambiance. Cozy and Mediterranean. A really cute place. 2. Music. Fit perfectly the atmosphere. 3. Food. The apps, Baba Ghanoush and Kefta, were outstanding. What we didn't care for: 1. There were two employees, both friendly enough. But the guy's enthusiasm was better fitted for Hooters, and it kinda killed the feel of the place. The woman didn't seem to want to be there and appeared to know little about the menu items or the beers. 2. Know what is out of stock and tell the patrons BEFORE they take the time to choose something and learn the beer menu. At the table behind us a woman ordered a beer that was on the menu only to discover that it was out of stock. She then asked the waitress to recommend another like that beer. No clue. This place can be an easy 4 with a little more work in the staff department. We plan on going back because the menu looked fantastic.
(3)Cassandra S.
A lovely and relaxing dinner here last night after getting a groupon here. I've honestly driven past it about 20 times but didn't put two and two together until we arrived. We were seated right away by Ashley who went on to make our night easy and memorable. I will go to the ends of the earth for service and find it lacking here in the states but last night we had excellent service thanks wholly to our cute little Ashley. We ordered the cheese plate (not too Wow, but okay), wine (a delicious Malbec), grape leaves (made with chic peas but with a perfectly seasoned side salad) and my FAVORITE: holloumi cheese!! All plates come with crispy little crostinis...I think everything is made upstairs of this converted town home by an adorable little Greek woman. We will be back!!
(5)Elizabeth S.
I love this place. It has a very laid back, cozy, neighborhood vibe and outstanding food. Seriously, everything on the menu is delicious. The owner cooks every meal herself in the upstairs kitchen, so allow some time for the food to come out. The atmosphere is very casual, nothing is rushed or hurried. The wine list is not super extensive, but it is all hand picked and again, very good. The beer list is limited (it's a wine bar) but usually consists of some great local brews. This is a perfect place to sit, relax, and enjoy the company of the people you're with.
(5)Joe A.
My wife and I had a groupon for this place. I was excited being that I have a french heritage and with a name like Gitan Bistro I couldn't resist getting it. As soon as we walked in we were greeted by the owner and bartender. The atmosphere was very relaxing and it suited the cuisine. The bartender Judd I believe was his name, was very friendly. We were served our bottle of wine and ordered the cheese plates. He made it very clear that the food was all made to order and would take time. In a place like this you do not feel rushed, so if you plan on going do not expect a quick dinner. The cheese plate was very nice and was accompanied by fresh fruit and a nice fig jam. After looking at the menu we decided to try the small plates and a soup to get a feel for the cuisine. The grape leaves were perfectly warm and tender. We also had the peasants classic that came with a small salad and it was very good. Then we moved to a cucumber and tomato salad and french onion soup. I make it a point to try french onion soup at every restaurant I go to that serves it and this has taken the number 1 spot for me. Elapsed time at this point was an hour and 15 minutes, but to be fair my wife took 25 minutes deciding(not kidding). We were then talked into desert which really wasn't a hard sell. The Tiramisu was very good and moist. After we cashed out we walked around the exterior and wished we had sat outside. It is a nice city neighborhood with gorgeous outside seating. There are lots of dog people that pass by so if you're a dog person like we are, it will make it that much more enjoyable. All in all this place for us is a solid 10 out of 10. Thanks to groupon, me and my wife have found our new favorite restaurant.
(5)Justin K.
So my wife and I decided to make this an early stop on Saturday and actually try out the place. The interior of the restaurant is very nice, they put a lot of work into. The bathrooms and the seating area in the back of the restaurant is also very cool. We were greeted promptly and sat at the bar. The bartender was very nice and helpful with the menu and questions we had. At first glance the beer menu is not that great, but then at second glance it was still...not that great. Oh well, it is supposed to be a wine bar. We each ordered a glass of wine. The Wine selection was decent but nothing crazy. The food: We started out with the cheese plate and the bartender let us try the hummus because she said it was fantastic. I have to agree, the hummus was awesome and the cheese selections they had were pretty good as well. Next we moved onto the fried haolumi. This is one of my favorite cheeses. It was pretty pan seared and served with a tomato, onions and capers mix. It was delicious. Then we decided to split a sandwich. The sandwich had a fancy name but I can't remember it. I can tell you it had ham, cheese and a fried egg on top. It was a pretty good sandwich, but ended up being a little dry. Quick tip: I was told that when you purchase a bottle of wine, you can sign it or do whatever to the bottle and then they will display it on the wall. Cool decorating idea. Overall the place was nice, nothing that blew my socks off. But I will come back and give this place another try. I want to get creative with a wine bottle.
(3)Stephanie M.
I found Gitan Bistro Cru through a Groupon. We decided to grab drinks and appetizers here for our anniversary. The cheese plate left something to be desired. None of the cheeses really stood out either way. The grape leaf rolls on the other hand were really good. If you like creamy cheesy tomato soups then you have to try their tomato soup with the grilled cheese. If you like the standard Campbell's tomato soup - you might want to find something else. They have some awesome seating towards the back with comfortable chairs. On a sunny day they will open the door and let the breeze roll through. It was fantastic. The only downside to this little alcove is, while some what removed from the rest of the bistro, it was near the rest room so you got to see everyone coming and going (no pun intended). If I was in the area again, and the alcove was available, I'd grab a drink.
(3)Shannon B.
We came here with high expectations and it turned out to be an utter disappointment. The service was terrible, when we ordered soups the server came out with a complimentary app after 20 minutes and told us they were out of the seafood bisque. Cocktails took a while, the specials weren't even mentioned until we asked. The decor and the menu need Anton of work. Not sure we will return. The only good thing about the place are the creative cocktails.
(1)Kimberly B.
Great date spot. Good atmosphere, friendly staff, pleasantly unique. I will definitely visit again.
(5)H H.
Went here with a group of 6 people. We broached the fun barrier early as I had a "Hello Kitty" aka Missy Cat sticking out of my jacket. The bartender took note of this. The food was excellent and the service was good despite the bartender having to pull double duty as the server/bar tender. I didn't see beer on the menu but didn't ask because the cocktails were good, I'd recommend the Bayne of Your Existence. They also had what looked like a good wine list, but I don't drink wine that much so I'm not sure. Though, the bar seemed to have a stocking issue, there were several wines and cocktail ingredients that had gone dry. The bartender handled it well and everyone was happy in the end. The food was excellent. For an appetizer we tried the hummus, kefta, and fried cheese. The fried cheese was definitely a big hit. I got the seafood bisque as the main course and it was very good, though I didn't care for the very salty fish spread topping on the bread.
(4)H G.
Highly recommend this place. Definitely get the Grape Leaves appetizer, it's delicious. The Lemon Garlic Salmon for the entre was perfectly cooked and delicious.
(4)Rachel C.
I was surprised to find it relatively empty on a Saturday night around 6:30. We sat at the bar and enjoyed chatting with and recommendations from our friendly (and very good) bartender. The ambience is nice (tablecloths!), and prices are reasonable. There's even a happy hour on a Saturday night -- unheard of! Food was tasty and portions were right. I'd highly recommend the cheese plate -- it came with four types of cheese, each of which our bartender explained, as well as sliced bread, pineapple, cantaloupe and grapes. Only negative: It took at least 20 minutes to get the cheese plate, then at least another 30-45 to get our dinner. Fortunately, we weren't in a rush! A funny addendum: As we exited the restaurant, a woman walking on the next block called out to us in a french accent, "Hello! How was your dinner?!" We're assuming she's the owner or chef?
(4)C E.
This place is honestly amazing. Well worth the wait. The grilled cheese and tomato soup was amazing, I would come back for it everyday! It's a small cozy place, and the chef is the owner, and puts a lot of care and work into each dish!
(5)Todd S.
Had an amazing date here with my wife. Warm ambiance with the lighting and music. Food was amazing from the appetizers to the entree, and the creme brûlée was the most delicious I've ever had. Something as simple as the cucumber tomato salad that came with the appetizer (I think it was the kefta) was a different level of delicious. The chef even came out to talk with us and gave us suggestions on what to eat. Pauline was incredibly friendly and genuine. We would recommend this place to anyone!
(5)Courtney G.
I am SO happy that a place as nice as this opened up across the street from my house. (Not so sure my waistline will be as happy, though!) My fiance and I went here with another couple and were absolutely delighted with everything about it. First, let me start by saying that Gitan isn't a restaurant you go to if you have to be somewhere else later. Dinner service for us (with drinks, appetizers, main courses, and dessert) took three hours on a Saturday evening, but we didn't mind one bit. Here, the food, wine, and conversation are to be savored without rushing. The experience is very reminiscent of dining out in Europe, where no one is trying to turn over your table or bothering you every five minutes. The waitstaff is attentive without being overbearing. And the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and and just enjoying yourself. And the food. Oh, the food! We tried a variety of starters and main dishes, and everything was amazing. Here's our list: the Mediterranean salad, pate, French onion soup (to die for), cassoulet (enormous, hearty, and satisfying), Lorraine omelette, lemon-garlic chicken, and the fish special (fluke) in a very tasty lemon-white wine sauce. The main dishes are generally big enough to satisfy the appetite without feeling overstuffed, but if you add starters and dessert to your meal, be prepared to go home very full. The wine list is well-edited, and none of the waitstaff will fault you for not being able to pronounce something. Speaking of, they are friendly and knowledgeable while still being extraordinarily professional. Beyond the wine, though, there's a cocktail menu that's part classics, part new inventions. I had a drink (but can't remember the name) with muddled lemon and basil, potato vodka, and St. Germain (I think). It was very good and *very* strong! All in all, this is a fantastic addition to the neighborhood. Expect slow, relaxed service as the kitchen is very small. The restaurant itself is also very small and doesn't take reservations for parties under six, so get there early to nab a table. We came at 7:00 and got one of the last open spots. If you're driving instead of walking here, I'll add a neighborhood tip: if you can't find a spot on the street, you can park at the Can Company garage -- for free -- and walk just a few blocks to Gitan.
(5)Thaner A.
The food was tasty. Drinks were excellent. However, the only problem is that the service and food preparation takes a long time to be made.
(3)Morgan M.
The food here is excellent! Tried many different plates tonight --- from dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) to charcuterie to omelet to french onion soup, everything was seasoned perfectly and delicious! Service was spot on and decor was nice too. Small outdoor area to sit and quiet inside. My friends and I shared a bottle of wine and left very full and satisfied. This is a nice place to go for a quiet dinner in Canton if you are not up for the busy bar scene at the square. Would definitely go here again if I was in the mood for french/mediterranean fare.
(4)Katherine S.
Went back again, and the decor has been fixed up nicely -- the empty wall I mentioned is now filled with a cool wine rack, and the lights are dimmer. Really great atmosphere now, and they have a bartender/mixologist who came from 13.5% in Hampden, and makes super delish cocktails. And the food was also very good the second time, with several interesting specials (rabbit, a cassoulet, and a couple of others). Highly recommended.
(5)Angela T.
Oh Gitan...how my stomach and liver love you (Even my wallet!). I can't speak highly enough of this place. My friends and I knew the bartender (Ashley) from another bar that closed and followed her here to Gitan. The decor is is very stylish and relaxing with dark woods and tones. They have a wine rack on half the bar where they put empty signed wine bottles. (My group is determined to fill the entire wall to prove what alcoholics we are) All the wines are fantastic, all the mixed drinks are as well and are constantly being made up by the bartender (if you're lucky you could be the guiney pig). I would personally recommend the chocolate double espresso martini. yuummmy As someone else mentioned, this is not the place to go if you're looking for a quick meal. It does have a very European feel to it where you can sit back and just relax with your amazing food. I suppose you could get faster service if you wanted to, but honestly that would be ruining the experience. I've tried the majority of things on the menu and they are all fantastic. Everything is pretty reasonably priced especially considering the quality of food you're getting. The steak is $22 and you get a large portion of meat, potatoes and veggies and it's also one of the best steaks I've ever had. So long story short, grab a date or group of friends, have a delicious meal, get drunk of wine, and have a delicious dessert and some french press coffee. And if you see 3 or 4 hot 25 year olds at the bar with a couple bottles of wine, that's us.
(5)Michelle S.
We have been to Gitan twice now as we are part of the two block away group. The first time we went we sat at the bar after work during the week. I was blown away by the friendly nature of everyone working in Gitan and the food! I ordered the croque Madame which I highly recommend. My husband had an omelet which was great. After having such a wonderful time we decided to invite a group of friends out after work on Friday. I called and they reserved th lower area for us. We had 10 people and just loved it! We had 4-5 bottles of wine and great food (French onion soup, croque Madame, grape leaves and more... As there is nothing subpar on their menu!). This will be somewhere we frequent often. I am thankful we now have a place in the neighborhood that feels los home in New Orleans.
(5)Marcus S.
Overall, a wonderful experience. At first, the menu seemed a bit limited; however every item we tried was crafted with great quality and precision. The beverage selection was also extensive. I would highly recommend any of the sandwiches. The only unfortunate aspect was that I dot eat pork and therefore was fairly restricted in terms of exploring the menu.
(4)Michelle F.
I highly recommend this quaint cozy corner bar. This was my first visit to Gitan with my husband, and we used a Groupon. Went around 7:00 sat right down and was greeted by Heather our Barmaid/Waitress who is awesome. We had a bottle of chilled Mascoto and Cheese tray (which was very good) Also, we ordered the "Dad's Garlic Shrimp" and Cucumber & Tomatoe's which were even better. The olive oil and her mixture for the Shrimp was so good I could have licked the plate. We will definitely be returning. They just start a Sunday Brunch so we have to try that.
(4)