Last night, Friday I went to Forequarter for the first time. We arrived at 5pm. The restaurant is lovely... rustic and cozy. Unfortunately it is winter in Wisconsin so we never really felt warm. Few Spirits was offering a tasting of their gin, rye and bourbon. I tried the rye which was smooth and full flavored. Some cocktails were offered at a reduced price putting to use the Few products. I ordered a Negroni and my friend got a Gin Mule. Both were expertly prepared and presented.
The waitress was excellent. Very knowledgeable, not overly intrusive and available when needed. We started with the Duck and Turkey Rillette with Crostini and Micro Green Salad ($10). It was absolutely decadent and yummy. One could be put off by the layer of fat atop the rillette but had it been pate there would have been the same fat content but it would have been pureed into the meat. My friend is something of a vegetarian but she loved this opening course.
Next we shared The Roasted Mushroom and Citrus Panzella $13) and the Herb Cavatelli with house made ricotta, caramelized onions, parsnips and spicy greens (14). The servings were medium sized. We were not full but we were more than satisfied. Someone with a larger appetite (and wallet) may want a dish to themselves. Both dishes were perfect. The homemade pasta was toothsome, the ricotta creamy and tangy and the parsnips added a special sweetness in the background. The panzella (bread salad) was equally delicious with the earthy mushrooms being the star.
I certainly plan to return and see what other wonderful creations they will present. I would be happy to sit at the bar, order some of the small plates, enjoy a few cocktails and have someone drive me home. That, would be my perfect evening.