I'm not often impressed with fancy schmancy restaurants. In fact the more popular and cool it is, the food leaves much to be desired. I find in the age of "celebrity chefs" the focus is on style and not substance. Susur is a celebrity chef, yes, but the man knows his food..and hire chefs who share his passion.
Madeline's does not disappoint. At first glance, some dishes on the menu sounds simple. Welsh rarebit you ask? Bah, open faced grilled cheese! What you come to realize its the best open faced cheese toast you've had. The bread is perfectly toasted - crisp on the edges yet still soft in the center. The cheese sauce is flavorful, not overpowering and perfectly browned.
It's the attention to detail and quality ingredients that I appreciate. It's the reason that I will go there again and again, as my budget allows.
I can go on and on. But I won't. I haven't eaten dinner yet and I'm hungry. Treat yourself and check it out!