Mainstream lives up to its name

A new restaurant has opened in Plaza Mexico’s old space (which was once Cirrus’s old space) on Main Street across from the Visual Arts Center. The menu seems, well, mainstream — mainly classic standards, for typical prices.

December 14, 2010; 12:28 PM • by Holly Gordon

A new restaurant has opened in Plaza Mexico’s old space (which was once Cirrus’s old space) on Main Street across from the Visual Arts Center. Nothing has stayed there long, and Mainstream is the newest attempt, though I nearly missed them due to lack of signage. It would serve them well to get rid of that awning with the shadow imprint left of the previous tenants. Until they can get a new sign, they should just take that thing down.

The menu seems, well, mainstream — mainly classic standards, for typical prices. Spinach artichoke dip for $6, soup of the day for $6, wraps and sandwiches for $7-10, and entrees $13-16. Brunch is offered Saturday and Sunday from 9:30am to 2pm, including flavored variations on pancakes and French toast, breakfast casserole for $8 and crab cake Benedict for $10.

Inside, the décor is simple but with an eye to a more hip vibe. I never saw it in its previous incarnation so I don’t know how much has changed. Booths, four tops, and a small bar are similar to other Fan-establishment layouts.

Owner Mike Farley was welcoming, though apparently my cell phone picture-taking gave my food writer status away. Drink specials are available from 3pm to 8pm (very generous time-frame. Twenty bottles showcase mainly, again, mainstream, beer tastes as well.

Only one couple was eating midday on Saturday when I was there, so business seems slow for now. Daily specials, a promising wine menu, free Wi-Fi and 10% off all meals with a student ID should bring more traffic soon.

1731 W. Main Street

804-353-1489

For more information on restaurant news and other happenings in the Fan area, stop by Fan of the Fan.

December 14, 2010 12:28 PM 2