rooted in the trees, Ella's bistro

 A converted warehouse on Nebraska Avenue houses an eclectic mix of retro, repurposed art and fine cuisine   best described as cracker urban. . The front deck , housed under a small grove of live oaks, is anageographic,  While traffic moves scant feet away on US Highway 41,  there is  an antediluvian hush under  the  canopy of  trees, centuries old. Inside  and out, Ellas's  is full of local artists,  from the sidewalk   decks and walls  to  the menu , the bar, and of course, the chef.   Art-deco  booths provide focus for the eye while providing    privacy. They  blend with   curated   art,   enchanting larger parties   seated in open dining downstairs. The  balcony , offices or storage in another life, hums with lively conversation.

Our server was knowlegeable, friendly, polite, prompt, non invasive. He sold us on the specials, although the menu   was tempting.  Homemade bread and butter started our meal,  a    crusty, full bodied mouth pleasing beginning. .The hummus artichoke appetizer , served with pita and veggies, was fresh, light and, as promised, emphasis on the garlic. We split the beet infused blue crab broccoli fettucini and wished we'd ordered two. Not because we needed more, but the taste was addictive. Our server's  description of desert, a deep fried pecan pie a la mode, drizzled with caramel, made us order even though we knew better. The sangria both red and white  are made with triple sec and cinammon,much  better than your average sangria, It comes in pitchers which I  recommend , you'll want more than one.

  return visit? 5 chances out 5