Occupying the space that was Emeril Lagasse's Table 10, Once recently opened in that space. There have been some changes to the seating. There are separate sections, some set off from others by live plant walls.
I had a 5:30 reservation and was seated in an area with one of these walls. I had a view of the patio area and the people walking in the shops.
I ordered an iced tea and it was quickly brought. Shortly after, a bus person brought a second glass filled only with ice and a pot of lukewarm tea for when I needed a refill.
My server was Domenica and she was very helpful with explaining portion sizes. This is especially helpful for a solo diner at Once where many of the dishes are meant to be shared.
I started with the red snapper teradito. The slices of red snapper were on some greens and dressed with yuzu, ponzu, and aioli leche de tigre. The fish was excellent and the aioli gave a small spiciness to the dish as a counterpoint to the yuzu and ponzu. The liquid was so good--and there was no one else around--that I picked up my dish and drank the excess. So good!
I asked the bus person for a menu as I wanted to order another small plate. I had two things in mind and with the help of Domenica, I opted for the yuquitas--stuffed yucas beignets, stuffed with smoked mozzarella and with a black mint sauce. These yuca beignets were light and the cheese along with the mint sauce made a great combination.
There are three things available for dessert. Domenica explained them and I had her record details of the churro bon bons that I ordered so I wouldn't forget.
The serving is 5 small churro rounds on an edible stick. Some of the bon bons are filled with white chocolate, some with dark chocoalte, and some with dulce de leche. There's a serving of liquid milk chocolate in which to dip the bon bons.
The meal was an excellent way to start an evening out. Service was fantastic! Domenica and her aide were pleasant, informative, and very efficient. It made the meal that much better! I am looking forward to returning to try some of the other dishes.