Back in the days (what, like four months ago?) when the tall, charming, multi-storied white house on the corner of Olney Street and Colley Avenue donned the moniker "The Winehouse," patrons called from far and wide to sample its elegant and straightforward fare and to soak up the fantastic wine selection. Many, like myself, were both shocked and saddened when the "we're moving!" signs were posted in the windows, signaling the end to the era of The Winehouse, (at least in its original house) with which many Norfolk residents had always been so lovingly familiar. Not to worry though, because of its consistent popularity and apparent lack of space, Ghent's beloved Winehouse simply moved its operation down the street a couple three blocks to a much roomier spot on Colley Avenue. The restaurant and upscale watering hole still maintains its former menu items, wine selection, and friendly bartenders – it just outgrew its old home. So, with this transition came the obvious question: what the heck was going to go in the beautiful old home in which the Winehouse used to reside? Community confusion and apprehensions have since been readily allayed with the recent launch of the new restaurant, Press 626. On my first visit, I walked into this establishment with the preconceived notion that it would undoubtedly fall short of its predecessor, but I have to say, it far surpassed my hesitant expectations.

Press 626 conscientiously focuses its selections on local and regional foods/economies, and in so doing, creates a relatively thoughtful and ethical menu. With a similarly straightforward and concise menu as The Winehouse, Press 626 offers its patrons choices ranging from a killer, and uniquely seasoned ribeye (it's delicious blackened crust has made my husband a true believer) to smaller tapas-like plates such as the almost addicting Indian spice shrimp. Perhaps one of the most attractive menu offerings is the 10 items for $10 create-you-own-salad deal. Customers are provided with a salad menu and pencil upon seating and may decide among an impressive variety of offerings with which to create their very own salad masterpiece – if they so choose. For me, the most exciting items on the menu are the simple, "hot off the press" sandwiches. Including but not limited to an ooey, gooey grilled three-cheese and a tasty Cubano, the sandwich selection at Press 626 is small but effective and definitely helps to draw the hungry lunch crowds from next-door Eastern Virginia Medical School.

In sum, Press 626 is a solid and satisfying replacement for the beloved Winehouse, and I enthusiastically recommend it, and if you do wind up suffering from a case of Winehouse remorse, it's always waiting for you right down the street...