Commonwealth

Commonwealth was an awesome experience. The food was sublime, the service was friendly (even when bouncing a random somewhat-crazy dude that walked in and started serenading tables) and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is killer. Such an awesome experience, and what’s better… this restaurant has only been open for like 9 months or something absurd for how polished and wonderful it is. This place is known for their tasting menu ($10 of which is donated to a local charity), but my party opted to go ala carte, and we’re happy we did. We’ll be back for the tasting menu. :)

The chef here has chops. Every flavor was clean, not over-complicated, and perfectly complimented. Medium-sized portions perfect for sharing. We had quite a bit of food, so I will do a quick list in order:
*Chickpea panisse with romesco 7/10
*Gnochhi with chantrelle mushroom and truffle oil 8/10
*Asparagus with crushed avocado 8/10
*Salad of winter greens and shaved root veggies 8/10
*Dayboat scallops with sunchoke puree and brussel sprout leaves 10/10
*Grilled octopus with smoked potato 10/10
*Sea Urchin with sweet potato tempura 8/10
*Duck breast with something delicious that I don’t remember entirely (not my main) 10/10
*Lamb breast with chard, mint-scented potato puree and balsamic reduction 12/10
*Frozen coconut mousse with fresh citrus salad 12/10
*Lemon sponge cake with thyme ice cream and candied honey 9/10
*Peanutbutter semifreddo with frozen popcorn 10/10

Atmosphere: What a STUNNING renovation! Very clean, modern, but also interesting… the skylight up to the wood rafter ceiling is pretty cool, and there are little terrariums of air plants hanging everywhere. Smallish, but we never felt cramped.

Service: PERFECT pacing. We were here for 3 hours, but never once were bored, felt we were waiting too long,
They also have an awesome by-the-glass wine selection and a great cellar.

All in all, a fantastic dining experience that comes highly recommended. All of the above food plus probably 10 glasses of wine among us hit us with a $320 bill, split four ways. I will be back (soon hopefully) with more friends in tow..