Chops Bistro welcomes diners

The owners of Chops Bistro are eager for patrons to join them.

Located in the space formerly known as Latigo Restaurant, 370 E. Cascade Ave., Chops Bistro is maintaining much of the former menu, but with seasonal changes and innovative twists from head chef and co-owner Grant Dixson.

Tracy Syanovitz, who brings more than 30 years of experience in the restaurant business to her ownership and management duties, says Chops is committed to providing an extremely comfortable, family-like atmosphere, featuring "American contemporary food brought to a new level."

Syanovitz told The Nugget their emphasis is on the quality of food, and also on a casual, welcoming atmosphere.

"I want people to feel like they are coming to my house for dinner," she said.

Syanovitz and Dixson were part of the original Latigo venture, but took ownership and renamed the restaurant in January. They have made numerous welcome changes, including live music Friday through Sunday nights, and a separate menu in the bar and lounge for patrons who prefer juicy burgers and homemade fries.

Chops will also soon be adding a lunch menu, to be served outside on the patio or in the lounge, opening at 11 a.m., beginning May 15.

Syanovitz told The Nugget that the Bistro's dining area is also available to host business luncheons, and they are expanding their reach into catering for special events.

Tracy told The Nugget that the restaurant's new name is meant to reflect the menu, which features, among other choices, pork chops, lamb chops, and a specialty bone-in ribeye. Dixson, who has extensive training in the culinary arts and has served under several executive chefs, is excited to bring his creative touches to the menu.

Dixson cites Chef Matt Bennett of Sybaris Bistro, in Albany, as one of his principle influences.

"He has one of the most creative menus in Oregon," Dixson says.

The owners stress that the atmosphere in Chops is casual. They want diners to experience "the quality of fine dining without the stuffiness that goes along with it." One of their goals was to reduce the prices, while at the same time exceeding the quality of the old menu. Syanovitz says they work hard to honor requests from guests.

"We've had customers who wanted items from the old menu, and we work hard to try to accommodate them," she said.

Dixson is also incorporating fresh seafood into his menu, which he is able to source and bring to table overnight, and they are hoping to add a sushi takeout option in the future.

The new owners are also committed to the larger Sisters community. They have recently joined the Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce, and are helping to sponsor this year's Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show.

For Sisters diners looking for a great meal, Chops Bistro, with its large, quiet, and comfortable dining room, and now featuring a revitalized, relaxed, and entertaining bar and lounge, is an excellent option for a night on the town.