The Twisted Frenchman is hands-down the best restaurant in Pittsburgh. I'm from Pittsburgh originally but live in NYC and took my girlfriend to Le Bernardin last Valentine's Day (the #1 Zagat-rated restaurant in all of New York City -- not just for French cuisine, but overall). As expected, it was delicious.
The Twisted Frenchman though -- in Pittsburgh no less! -- is even better. The food perfects traditional French and adds delicious innovation. I expected one dish, some part of a dish, to be less than spectacular. I was waiting for a let down because it was too good. But Drew and his staff delivered on every dish.
The paste on the side of the pate was something you might ignore at even the fanciest restaurant, only to taste it and discover it is foie gras-infused puree and home-made mini chips specifically crafted to enhance an already delicious beef. Each detail of the presentation was precise -- from the off-center placement of the lamb that met the art 'rule of thirds' to the theatrical conclusion of freezing the top of his signature dessert at the table with liquid nitrogen.
And the chef is a consummate gentleman -- visiting each table, and always saying "we" not "I" when talking about the food. It's no wonder because the staff are themselves knowledgable, entertaining and efficient. They all seemed to be homegrown as well; who needs New York when Pittsburgh is finally retaining its own talent? Quite possibly the best meal any of us at the table -- half native New Yorkers -- has ever had.