Hugely disappointing. I had wanted to try this restaurant for a long time but it did not come close to meeting my expectations. I disagree with the reviewer who said this is what Binkleys should aspire to be. The surprise Brick Oven tasting menu appeared to be everything they needed to use up. Shellfish followed by more shellfish followed by fish. Nothing creative that you could say wow that was worth paying $385 for 2.
What I was hoping for was a unique, creative tasting menu, artfully paired with wine in a beautiful outdoor setting. This is what we got:
We arrived a few minutes early and were seated immediately. We had to sit inside as it was cold and there are no heaters, ok not a problem. The staff explained we would not be seeing a menu and we would be adventurous.. After 10 minutes a glass of sparkling wine arrived. We were told this one glass would be the pairing for the first 2 courses
First course, 1 oyster on the shell I dislike oyster so husband ate mine.
Home made bread with honey & herb butter. - nothing special
Plate of salami - dull
Bean soup - good
Mussels with linguine. - I don't like mussels so I sent mine back and got gnocchi instead which was good
Salmon with potato - ok
Steak with carrots - meat was not tender
3 cheese plate - goat cheese, humbolt fog and ripe camembert - This was the best thing we had.
Apple crisp and cheesecake - very disappointing, could have bought better in AJs.
French press coffee was ok but the octagonal cups are not comfortable to drink from.
The wine pairings were ok but the service was so slow we usually finished the wine before the matching course arrived. There was no bouche amuse but there was a palette cleanser of fruit sorbet.
The bathroom. - This was located very close to tables where people were eating and if it was occupied you find yourself standing in the dinners space. There was an open basket of used hand towels on the floor to add to the ambiance.