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| - Everyone has their own idea about what "fine dining" means. For me, its where both the food and the service contribute equally to the dining experience. Enter Cure. Nothing better than being dressed in a pair of jeans (OK, designer jeans) and a tee, and enjoying a thoughtfully prepared and executed meal. And in conjunction with that awesome food, the service doesn't miss a beat.
Lawrenceville is the mecca for Pittsburgh's burgeoning restaurant business. While I was only visiting, this neighborhood is clearly the hipster hangout. Couldn't think of a better neighborhood for this terrific expansion to the Burgh dining scene.
While the menu does spotlight the things that carnivores covet, there are more than enough offerings for vegetarians & pescatarians ( I was there with both) The charcuterie sampler with homemade salumis, cured meat and an awesome nduja is served with house made mustards and pickles.
Two varieties of raw oysters were were displayed on ice with fresh seaweed and mignonette.
Our vegetarians ordered roasted beets with lemon labneh and the "bread & butter" which came with roasted garlic and some fried rosemary. It also was served with whipped & spiced lard ( which us carnivores devoured) They also ordered squid ink paparadelle, with a lobster bolognese. The sauce had been reduced to within an inch of its life, and tasted of the coral shells, and aromatic veggies.
Spanish Mackerel -- was perfectly grilled and served alongside white beans, and a spicy celery type pickle. And last , but certainly not least, Pork on Pork on Pork ( a must for any pork lover)
The team service approach was impeccable. The hostess helped clear dishes as well as sat patrons. One might expect this type of service in a pricey restaurant, not a laid back, neighborhood, reasonably priced place like Cure. Fresh silverware with each course, food came for entire table at once. Server and kitchen perfectly paced the meal , and our server explained the food on the plates, making it appetizing. The kitchen is open , and you can see the professionalism as small portions of sauce were being prepared to order.
Cure runs like a well oiled machine. You will be glad you came here.
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