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| - Our party of three had been turned away two prior occasions as 'walk-ins', so needless to say, the bar was set very high when we finally had our meal there. I made reservations two days ahead via Open Table, and was called later to re- confirm. (Ok, bar set even higher...). Our table was ready for us that Saturday night, a generously sized and comfortable corner banquette, well illuminated. Our server was very friendly and unpretentious and able to answer questions about the menu. We had appetizers - gnocchi with cippollini and lamb ragout, Gorgonzola souffle with pear and wild greens and classic Caesar salad with anchovies. All very good. I was especially impressed with my gnocchi as it arrived in a deep, warmed bowl which kept my portion hot, from first bite to last drop of the flavorful broth/sauce (would it be bad form to pick up the bowl and drink the juice?!). For entrees, we had olive- crusted lamb loin on a bed of kale with wild mushroom bread pudding, skate with couscous and tomato/citrus compote and crispy-skin wild bass with haricot verts and roasted baby potatoes. All portions were generous and beautifully presented by multiple servers who described each dish as they placed it before us. For dessert, we shared two different dishes: Spoon chocolate ganache cake, a chewy browny-like base, topped with cheesecake-like layer and finished with chocolate mouse topping and Baklava, with a small chocolate pots de creme and mascarpone mousse - both exquisite, satisfying and just enough. The only misstep - not hot enough French press coffee. We felt welcomed, well taken care of and well fed. As far as 'passing the bar', Spoon cleared it with miles to spare! This trio will be back!! It's at the top of our list for dinner destinations here in Pittsburgh!!
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