defmonk

Let’s see..if you bring me a black winter truffle the size of my fist and shave it generously over every course of an exquisite tasting menu…you own me. If they would only allow me to supplement their expensive and substandard wine list with my own selections (for a corkage fee, of course), I could become a huge fan.

The scrambled egg with sea urchin and truffles is a breakfast/brunch fantasy…yummy. Duck egg and frisee salad is near perfection. The waitstaff is friendly and exceptionally well-informed — the waitress, on cue, gave a masterful dissertation about the components of the cheese plate like an experienced cheese monger. The sommelier also deserves special mention after recommending a perfect Alsatian white (even though he and every bachelor in Alsace unsuccessfully gave suit to the vinter’s daughter).

Hell yes! Last night’s special was sea urchin with spaghetti --- washed it down with a bottle of 2001 Amarone Speri. That’s pretty close to heaven in my book.

Pleasant enough casual ambiance…not crwing about the food.