Odette

Odette, a popular restaurant in downtown Florence, Alabama, has greatly impacted our community by providing us with a healthy, delicious Farm to Table menu that features locally and sustainably sourced ingredients, but to truly appreciate this local eatery one must understand every aspect behind Owner Celeste Pillow's decision to open a restaurant that has easily become the Shoals’ preferred stop for incredible fare. After leaving Florence to pursue a degree in Art at the University of Montana, Celeste traveled to New York City to continue her education in cuisine—two focuses that go hand-in-hand. With little intention to become a chef, she still wanted to grow in her understanding of the art of cooking, which she did at the Institute of Culinary Education in Manhattan. After time spent in New York working and learning in the restaurant industry, she began her journey home to Alabama where she first landed in Birmingham and eventually decided to move back home to The Shoals, where she found 120 North Court Street vacant. With her extensive and diverse knowledge in art and cooking, Celeste decided to pursue her dream of opening a restaurant and has since poured her heart and soul into creating an experience for customers that isn’t just about the food, but is about art, atmosphere, and amiable service. Every aspect is given thoughtful consideration, and is done so with hard work and humility.

The historical building, once housed The Bootery before becoming Kaye’s, which still has its name in the entryway floor, was gutted to reflect the original aesthetic and is an artistic creation personally designed by Celeste. Her attention to detail and individual style is apparent in her selection of every embellishment, including the lighting, which consist of large chandeliers with black striped shades provided by her friends at Stray Dog Designs, who also helped her design the incredible sconces which line the walls. The ceilings have been accented with gold tin-embossed tiles, while the original plaster walls have been stripped away to reveal exposed brick, decorated with large, black-framed mirrors. While the initial appearance is stunning, it’s in the details of the space that makes it memorable. There is an eclectic style that mixes mid-century modern furniture with contemporary elements and a touch of personal taste, including purple tile on the bar and front door, a nod to Celeste’s favorite color. And although it’s apparent she has put countless hours into creating Odette, she is incredibly humble and quick to point out those who have helped make it possible, including Chef Josh Quick, General Manger Kristy Bevis, Certified Specialist of Spirits Brian Lovejoy, and Pastry Chef Erin Wittscheck who have assisted in shaping what the restaurant has become known for: high-quality, flavorful, creative, food and drink.

With Southern and International influences—this Farm-to-Table establishment is a melting pot of delicious dishes with unique ingredients that incorporates local produce and meat from Jack-O-Lantern Farms, Bluewater Creek, and Cottonwood Farms. Chef Quick makes dishes based on what is in season and in such a way that they can tell you every ingredient used and how they made it. Everything is made in-house and due to the diligence, patience and creativity of the staff, the hard work has paid off and the dishes have gained plenty of positive attention for the wholesome ingredients and unbelievable taste. On the menu you will find popular dishes like the “deviled farm eggs two ways” with red curry, white cheddar pimento cheese, and bacon, the “braised local rabbit parpadelle”, and the “catfish & gulf shrimp cioppino”.  Chef Quick’s talent and original take on cuisine has evolved over the past two years and in June he will be a guest chef in the Atlanta Food and Wine Festival. However, the talent doesn’t stop in the kitchen. The bar has the state’s largest bourbon selection and a fun cocktail menu that has both classic drinks and new creations. Odette has cultivated a team that truly believes in what they are doing and it all stems from a belief in not cutting corners, but doing it the right way. In the end each aspect is an art, a personal experience that delivers beautiful, delectable results.  

Odette has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a casual lunch on the outdoor patio, romantic date night, or a fun night out with friends. Odette is more than just a place to eat; it’s a space for Shoals residents to gather and each night locals can look forward to something a little different. On Monday nights check out Trivia Night from 8-10pm, which offers a special bar-food menu, on Tuesdays give Mom the night off and pick up dinner by reserving a meal and then walking in the front door or driving through the back alley for pick up. Thursdays enjoy Oyster Night and on Saturdays stop in for a brunch special while you’re out and about. In addition, they occasionally have Wine and Beer Dinners, Dance Parties, and Bourbon Tastings. Although the restaurant only opened in November of 2013 it has already made a huge impact on our community between leading by example with the farm-to-table menus, to the bourbon selection, to community-minded events. If you are from The Shoals and you haven’t visited this remarkable restaurant go ahead and clear your calendar, this is the first place to bring friends, family, and that special someone to experience a night filled with fantastic food and delectable drinks.

WEEKLY SCHEDULE:

Monday:

Trivia Night: 8:00pm – 10:00pm

Meatless Monday Special

Tuesday:

Dinner Pickups: 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Wednesday:

Pasta Special

Thursday:

Oysters with House Cocktail Sauce

Friday/Saturday:

Meat & Fish Special

Saturday:

Brunch Special

Meat & Fish Special

Monday – Thursday:

Happy Hour: 4:00pm – 6:30pm

$5.00 wine/ $5.00 martini

½ off top shelf bourbons

EVENTS:

Sundays:

Open for holidays and can be reserved for special events.

Catering:

Will cater weddings and private events. Need three days notice.

info@odettealabama.com