Two to Try at Harbor Court Bistro

Yesterday, I tried the new Harbor Court Bistro, in the space formerly occupied by Cassis and Palomino. I was pleased to see a crowd there at lunch—good energy in what can be an awfully cavernous space. Two dishes stuck out as particularly interesting. The Isabella del Mar appetizer includes not just fried calamari, but the summery taste of fried okra as well. Fried olives and thinly sliced lemons, of all things, add to the unusual mix. It’s $9 and comes with a sweet, lilikoi dipping sauce.

I also tried the chocolate habanero ice cream ($6), which was far kickier than I expected. I thought it might have a little spiciness, but no, it’s full-on pepper. At first I thought it was a bit much, then it suddenly became addictive. You can take a little walk on the wild side after a meal. Harbor Court Bistro is at 66 Queen Street, 587-8338. You can see menus at http://harborcourtbistro.com.