I came back to Customshop on a double date and this experience was perfection.
We were able to sit outside on the small patio--it was the perfect temperature for males and females alike. Unlike my last trip, our waiter was very friendly and not at all Oscar the Grouch-esque.
The food: let me just say it was one of those meals where everyone was audibly mmm'ing. Not much talking = culinary success.
I loved the complimentary bread, generously drizzled with olive oil and cracked pepper. We ordered a charcuterie plate to start with a selection of meats and cheeses. Notice a trend here?
After ogling a delicious roasted okra concoction at the table beside us (not on the menu) we asked our waiter for one of those as well. It was outstanding, a bit spicy, a lot smoky. Spying can really pay off.
The softshell crab with collards and polenta took home the blue ribbon that night. The crab was so lightly breaded, with a delicate crunch that no crab lover could ever resist. The beef carpaccio appetizer was also a standout. A much larger portion than I had during my Restaurant Week visit.
The same can be said about the brioche bread pudding. Good God this dessert is delicious. Just thinking about it makes me weak in the knees!