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| - I'm sure most people would agree there are many things that make a great dinner experience. Things that are completely non-food related. One I feel is particularly important and that is company, those who share the dining experience with you.
Thursday I was fortunate to be invited to one of the Yelp Eats for Hunger Relief dinners which took place at G Bistro. Our group was small with only four people, including two yelpers I was meeting for the first time. I always get excited to meet new people because most of the time it involves food. I love eating and the best way to meet new people is to do it over food. After all, who doesn't like to eat? Differences aside, when it comes to eating and drinking, we all do it.
As someone who will try any kind of food I sometimes struggle when trying new places especially when they have extensive menus. This menu was not at all extensive, but still managed to offer a wide range of choices that would satisfy even picky eaters (poor souls!).
While the appetizer choices were minimal they provided something for everyone, basic items like chicken wings or more creative like duck spring rolls. Our table chose both a grilled calamari and a calamari fritti for our appetizers which came with a side of complimentary olive bread. Jack pot!!
The calamari was nice and tender (which is always a make or break for seafood). Both dishes were very different from one another, the fritti came with a side of chipotle mayo and the grilled with a tomato olive sauce. Between the two, I recommend the grilled calamari for its bright flavor and because I am a huge fan of olives.
When the entrees came we treated the meal as "family style" allowing everyone to try every entrée, obviously except the burger...we all have our limits! I loved this idea; I get to try a bit of everything without the risk of an evil look as I pick off someone else's plate.
I was happy to see that the portions were not overwhelming, cause let's face it if it's on my plate I'm eating it! The pork chop came in a generous portion beautifully smoked with a touch of sweetness and complimented with a small side of sweet potato gnocchi. A huge hit.
The mushroom risotto had a nice creamy texture, not overly heavy and did not taste or look like mushroom soup, which it sometimes does.
On a side note: I have always been extremely impressed with anyone who can cook risotto perfectly. I'm scared to even try as I couldn't help but overhear Gordon Ramsay voice in my head shouting "You Donkey!!" if I were to fail and I likely would. I'm happy to say that Gordon would have been impressed by this risotto.
Ok, I digress....
The salmon came on a bed of arugula; of course, salmon is worthy of much more then basic greens. The fish was cooked very well, with a hint of spice, nice and tender inside and crispy outside. Texture is important for me so I'm always happy when the fish comes with crispy skin. Of course cause its edible too. Waste not!
As for the service they were very attentive and keen to offer suggestions without being overbearing. The atmosphere is relaxing and comfortable while still remaining elegant. All of us agreed that the space would be perfect for engagement parties, work events, first dates and, more importantly, future Yelp events.
Personally, what made the overall experience was not only the joy of food and meeting new people but dining with others who weren't there to JUST EAT but to enjoy and experience it.
Food is one of the best pleasures in life and is even better in the presence of good company. I mean really, who wants to drink a glass of wine and eat calamari alone? Not me!
Since I still want to try half of the menu, I will return to G Bistro again and will most definitely recommend it to friends and fellow yelpers. Beyond the great service, atmosphere and the excellent food, G Bistro shows great support in both the Yelp and surrounding communities.
So, for all of the yelpers out there, show some love back!
And never eat alone. I'm always hungry and you know where to find me.
Cheers,
Tiff
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