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| - 43 North's special Valentine's Day four-course prix fixe was, hands down, one of the BEST meals I've had in Madison, ever.
Each of the four courses offered three supremely adventurous and deliciously executed choices, imaginatively (de)constructed or served in novel - yet hearty - ways. Standouts included the lobster bisque, poured at the table over succulent and generous pieces of meaty lobster, a take on fried chicken with spaetzle that was more like a fall-off-the-bone-tender confit, a seared salmon in microgreens with shaved shallot and lemon dressing, _huge_ sea scallops with jamón ibérico over pear and the beef loin over puréed root veg. Each course offering was served with an unexpected yet exciting twist, and a variety of amuses-bouches were offered throughout the meal - including a starter of a strawberry purée and cava cocktail, and ending with a take-home portion of 43 North's coffee cake (presumably served at their new Sunday brunch). Desserts were playful deconstructed takes on classics; the concentrated form enhanced flavor and offered a visually stimulating presentation that was matched with the intense flavors (of chocolate-caramel flan, in one case, and panna cotta with mango, in the other). Cocktails were also splendid, particularly the Hendricks and St. Germain "Rainie."
In addition, the service from "Birgit" was excellent - she was attentive, informative and enthusiastic about the special meal and it made dining a pleasure. The maítre d' was equally warm and welcomed us in as special guests for the evening - it's a feeling that makes this restaurant just a cut above other high-end options in town.
For $50 per person, this was one of the most reasonably priced yet fantastic dining experiences I've ever had. I can't rave enough. Awesome!
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