Take the 3-star rating with a grain of salt and as a reflection of my abbreviated dining experience.
Spice Kitchen was the Fine Dining Group's third installment for 2013. I arrived late, missing out on cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Plus we skipped out on dessert (Sweet Moses was calling our names).
I made it in time for the mushroom beignets and what must have been a spectacular cheese board. Both were wonderful as was the tomato bisque. I will be going back to try the other items on the menu.
The highlight for me was the striped bass which was perfectly seared - crisp on the outside, tender and seasoned on the inside. It was a beautiful piece of fish that was beautifully cooked. The parsnip mash perked up the dish, a gentle reminder that fall was here. Loved everything about this dish!
Properly prepared fish is my benchmark for a great restaurant.
We passed around a risotto dish. It was tasty but not memorable. My fellow diners and I usually share our dishes but the bass was the overwhelming favorite that evening.
Service was efficient, friendly and attentive. Warm ambiance in the main dining hall. We were seated at a large rustic table, reminiscent of vineyards in Tuscany or Napa. Centerpieces were garden flowers and other botanicals along with mason jars of preserved vegetables.
I enjoyed my dining experience. Though I do need to revisit Spice Kitchen again to size up the wine selection and courses -- including the profiteroles.