Tucked into the heart of Brookside, Cru Bistro & Bottles feels less like a new addition and more like a place that has always belonged. For owners Hannah Koenig and Avery Koenig, that sense of familiarity was the goal from the very beginning.
“Brookside is really where it all began,” Hannah says. “We both live and work in the neighborhood, and value the connection here.” That connection shaped their vision for a cozy, intimate bistro that feels lived in yet transporting, like a quiet corner you might discover on a European street.
Step inside Cru and that vision comes to life. The space is warm and inviting, intentionally free of screens, encouraging guests to settle in and stay awhile. Hannah describes it as a true “third place,” somewhere that naturally becomes part of daily life. “The place you go to celebrate milestones, but just as easily where you stop in for a glass of wine after work,” she says.
That balance between elevated and approachable defines the Cru experience. The wine program highlights small producers and family run wineries, while the menu focuses on seasonal ingredients and comforting, thoughtful dishes. “Our goal is always to meet people where they are, and then give them just a little bit more,” Hannah explains.
Regulars already have their favorites. The espresso martini has developed a loyal following, thanks in part to a fresh pulled shot from Broadway Roasting Company. The steak frites, a USDA Prime flat iron topped with truffle butter, is another standout, along with the mushroom croquettes, a nostalgic recipe from Avery’s family. For dessert, the burnt Basque cheesecake with goat cheese and blueberry coulis offers a rich but balanced finish.
Beyond the menu, Cru has carved out a niche with its popular Tuesday “Grl Dinner.” The prix fixe offering includes a drink, fries, salad, and charcuterie, designed to recreate the joy of sharing small bites with friends. “We love sharing a handful of random menu items and spending the evening laughing and catching up,” Hannah says. “This is our way of making that experience easy for everyone.”
On those nights, the dining room hums with energy. Tables fill with groups of friends connecting over food and conversation, creating what Hannah describes as an electric atmosphere. It is a reflection of what Cru does best, bringing people together in a way that feels effortless and genuine.
For the Koenigs, the most rewarding part of building Cru has been watching those connections take shape. Familiar faces return again and again, and over time, guests and staff alike become part of a larger community.
When diners leave, Hannah hopes they carry that feeling with them. “Of course, we want them to enjoy a great meal and a lovely bottle of wine,” she says. “But more than that, we hope they feel present, relaxed, and that they’ve shared a moment worth savoring.”