Every time I try to finish this review I look at the pictures I took of the food and end up going back to try something different. This will be the third revision of this review for me :) I love a place where the food and the service are great. The service here is outstanding. And the food has been great every time we've been back.
The Tapas at Pier 215 have been highlights for me so far, specifically the Shrimp Tempura and Crispy Pork Belly with Kochujang Miso and Balsamic Soy. I have seen pictures of the Deep Fried Dumplings and I am glad they were Pan Fried when I visited. It is clear that the management reads your reviews and is willing to make adjustments to please their guests.
The Tempura Shrimp is light and crispy with a hot, but not overcooked, shrimp center. If you look closely you can see the tiny bubbles in the batter adding to the airy crispness of the shrimp tempura. The batter itself has been nice and golden brown each time we've ordered it. This has become a requirement for me at Pier 215.
Crispy Pork Belly with Kochujang Miso and Balsamic Soy is a hit for me. The pork belly had a crispy exterior with a soft center that just dissolved as I ate it. It was such a nice combination of texture and flavor. I always end up hoarding that dish and saving the kochujang miso and balsamic soy sauce to try it with the other food that I ordered. Next time I'll order it on the side if I can. I especially like eating this tapas with the Kinchi Fried Rice with Pork Belly, which is excellent on its own.
I enjoyed the Sushi Sampler. The fish always tastes fresh and each piece is always dressed and at a proper temperature. That kind of attention brings out a nice bright flavor. The same can be said about the other nigiri we ordered. I have not experienced the issues with the sushi rice as some others have indicated. The rice has always been at a good temperature, neither over or under cooked with a pleasant acidity. In most cases I am more particular about the rice than I am with the neta.
The Scallops and Brown Rice Risotto are a treat. The risotto and scallops were cooked perfectly. The scallops were slightly opaque in the middle with a thoroughly cooked exterior and a nice smoky flavor coming from the grill marks. I love scallops. One of the tiny voices in my head is a Gordon Ramsay clone and he comes out when scallops and risotto are sensed.
I could go on singing praises about the food and the service here, but this review is turning into an article. Stop by and try it for yourself. The food here is presented beautifully, service is excellent, and the ambiance is very pleasing. I will be returning here soon and I hope you get a chance to enjoy Pier 215 as I have.