After almost 4 years, returned to the spot of one of my favorite dining experiences. Food was still first rate, but service was lacking this time so have to downgrade it from 5 stars.
Food: 4.5, Atmosphere: 4.5, Service: 2
Cost to worth it rating: 3 (tasting menu $159, wine pairing $105)
Return worthiness: yes
Highlights:
- Menu options: you can do whatever want from getting a bunch of appetizer portions, a la carte entree, 4-5 course of your choice from selected items, or a full 9 course tasting menu. I like that the whole party does not have to agree on the direction.
- Seared foie: one of the best versions I've had (and I order it as often as I can). Thin slice with the perfect level of crispy sear on top and melt in your mouth texture underneath that.
- Onion tart: still a favorite. Like an upscale quiche but the thin version with a crispy bottom layer. Presentation with the tiny egg in the middle, thin cheese triangles on the side, and confetti of bacon was beautiful
- Rose: the star of the wine pairing and I appreciated the departure from a syrupy sweet wine paired with seared foie.
- Amuse: Parmesan foam and foie isn't a common combo, but it worked. Kinda looked like a latte in a shot glass which was fun
- Foie gras sliders: not my dish but looked amazing and got rave reviews from my friends. Mini beef burgers with seared foie on top paired with crinkly fries and a ginger ketchup.
Midlights:
- Wine pairing: glad they added this since my last visit but it was more like a few glasses than a true course by course pairing. Was a bit challenging saving half while waiting for the next course as well.
Lowlights:
- Waiter: fine when he was talking to us but he was never around. The worst part was almost the hour gap between the cheese course and desserts. After a several hour meal, my table was getting restless. No acknowledgment of the issue at this caliber of a restaurant was very disappointing.
- Tables: not as fun without a view of kitchen. I'd suggest all the seats in the place have a clear view of the kitchen
- Fish: bit overlooked and not much flavor
Enjoyed my meal, but next time I'm going to sit at the bar area so I can see the action and ensure a better level of service.