6 months ago
Spicecake68
Okay, that was fantastic. My wife and I had the good fortune of meeting some friends here for dinner. We had high expectations and a mano blew our expectations right out of the water.
First of all, service was impeccable. Laura worked hard to make sure we were happy and treated us like royalty. We wanted for nothing. And I won't be able to tell you enough good things about the food. This may be the best bolognese I've ever had. They say it takes three days to make. Someone in that kitchen is pouring a great deal of love and soul into their work. Because that dish was excellent. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
Environs are comfortable and cozy. Intimate and personal, but simple and almost understated. The bar is well equipped to handle any mixologist's imagination. And a mano has put together a nice list of signature cocktails and special wines to compliment your meal. The house red did not disappoint.
We decided to sample a number of things. Among the antipasti, the Charred Octopus is a real winner. The texture is just right and the caramelized fennel and citrus on that plate just makes things perfect. The Burrata is also crowd pleaser. I mean, how can you go wrong with some excellent grilled Sourdough and that creamy cheese? This dish was plated with basil oil, tomato jam and some aged balsamic.
Among the primi, the aforementioned Bolognese is going to knock your socks right off. Three days in the making, the bolognese has a slight burn and the taste is carefully crafted during that time. You may just roll your eyes. But if the bolognese doesn't do it, perhaps the Fusilli will. This has a more creamy approach, and contains scallops, mushrooms, and a whole heap of freakin' goodness. It was an instant favorite.
Among the secondi, I recommend the Duck Breast, the Pork Chop, and the Cioppino. The Pork Chop may be one of the best pork chops I've ever eaten. Savory and dressed with some root vegetables and sherry, it is also among the many crowd pleasers on the menu. Same with the Duck Breast. It's made with a blueberry mostarda (sp?), and is also served with root veggies. And the Cioppino is the one dish I kind-of want to go back and eat all by myself with an extra serving of that grilled sourdough on the side. Hands down delicious.
After dinner, we splurged on the Bread Pudding. I want to say there was bourbon involved, but at this point my vocabulary had devolved into appreciative whimpering and an almost reverent silence.
I cannot wait for my next visit. Holler if you're coming with.
