Restauraunt Review Archives

Restaurant Review: Grog (Ballard)

Grog
5410 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107

For the review we have The Long Version, and The Short Version. It’s kind of like one of those pick your own adventure stories!

The Long Version
Last week, we were lucky enough to score a last minute invite to the private opening night if Grog. Ballard has long been my list of places I’d like to spend more time and explore. Not only is it home to my favorite Sunday market, but it seems that every time you sneeze or turn around, some new restaurant that threatens to be “the next big thing” is popping up.

We almost didn’t make the 9pm event cut off because we were touring around Ballard, observing how little parking there is as we looked for a spot. Now, let me stop and say this is a Fiat we were trying to park. Not some Goliath sized monstrosity of a mack truck. We’d already braved the wind and the rain. We’d braved leaving the comfortable walkability of Belltown. We had places to be, small plates to order and cocktails (yes, note the “s” at the end) that had my name written all over those lovely little frosted glasses. Come hell or high water, there was not turning back now for an issue as measly as not finding parking. I knew there was goodness awaiting us!

On to Grog! The place was packed when we walked in and it was a pleasure to see the assortment of people. How boring is it when you walk into a new establishment only to see a certain “type” of person, multiplied and filling the room. For me, if the drink and food menu pass the test, the next hurdle is the people that gather. Grog was a pleasant and welcoming mix of all styles, which not only made for fun people watching, but, made it feel like that kind of bar where nobody knows your name but your drinking family nonetheless. We secured two bar stools and moved our attention to the most important matter of the evening, what’s on the menu!

Round one. Little did we know at the time, but this was going to be a night of rounds. Yes, there’s that little “s” for the plural once again! But, isn’t that the way all epic nights start out? He ordered a “Ben Nevis” cocktail and I went with the Dainty Canal. For food, we opted for the Spice Market Short Ribs and Julio’s Citrus Salad to share. The salad was colorfully festive to look at while the lime, and grapefruit made it refreshing to eat. I was excited to try the “Rooster powder” and it added a nice slightly spicy sensation, as well as helping with the “colorful” part! The Short Rib was dressed with a tasty Chinese 5 spice and a peanut hoisin sauce which nicely complimented the little bit tougher cut of meat. Portion size was good and its plate presentation was lovely! As someone who likes the very buttery tender cuts, I’m glad I ordered the short ribs try but they weren’t my favorite. Oh no, my favorite of the night is yet to come.

Joe, the “under the radar’ mastermind behind Grub, was making the rounds and stopped to see how we were doing. It wasn’t until he walked away and we got a tip from a near by cocktail sipper, that we found out Joe was the one who expertly envisioned and created this amazing little cocktail haven. From the Spice trade and sailor infused theme, to the local sources spices (from World Spice in Pike Place Market) and teas (Miro Tea just down the street in Ballard), attention to detail was the name of the game. The small touches of menu flare, from the bottle hiding in the “o” in the establishment name at the top of the menu, to the font and ever so subtle ship in the background brought the theme together. Event the selection and naming of the food and drinks added to the unique and nuanced nautical decor. This is defiantly a bar you want to drink at a handcrafted cocktail at.

Each of the menu items, both food and cocktails has a story behind the name. The Dainty Canal was a lovely way to start the evening. But, as I mentioned this was a night of rounds. We had been seated across from the right person for a good night and managed to befriend a certain “executive chef” (ahem- for the company behind that very nights debut) who expertly Sherpa-ed (yes, I’m using a tense of “Sherpa!) our food and cocktail experience to a WHOLE new level! Talk about drinking family treating you right!

I snuck in a round two drink order of “The Long Rifle” (did I mention the nuance in the naming!) and instantly fell in love with grapefruit beer. That is a MUST order right there! My favorite however was not round 2 as I thought at the moment of my first sip of The Long Rifle. Round three was where the “favorites” began and we received two lovely martini glasses filled with the “Black Flag”- my favorite drink of the night. Coming from a mostly wine person who’s not cocktail averse but simple cocktail uneducated, this little treat was a fast favorite for me! “I’m afraid to put my glass down because then my drink will be too far away”… that was my directly quote folks! Shortly after we started our love affair with our drinks, two delicious looking plates were placed in front of us. Now, when a chef befriends you and asked if he can order some food for you, you say “yes please”. But, when a chef befriends you, asks if he can order for you and then get’s that little “grin” and disappears, you better get outright excited! He had ordered us the Popcorn Chicken and the Sichuan Sandwich.

The Popcorn chicken had a perfectly crunchy but not battered and deep-fried crunch to it. You could smell the fish sauce before you saw the meal, but it worked with the other flavors of the dish very well. Served with sushi rice, this would have been a meal in itself!!

Now, cue drum roll for my favorite dish of the night: the Sichuan Sandwich. Soft, buttery and flavorful pork belly, Sichuan peppercorns and pickled vegetables on a simple and perfectly appropriate fluffy roll. The seasoning, texture, and flavor were just off the charts. It looks like any other sandwich when you see it coming, but wait for that first bite! Oh MAN it was good! Pair that sandwich with a freshly mixed black flag and you’re in for an amazing treat!

Just when we thought we had reached the edges of gastrosatisfaction, the donuts arrived. Yes, this already amazing bar serves donuts. These are not just any donuts, they taste like the best bite of a Cinnabon. Cinnamon spice toasted bites of oooey goooey heaven are served with an amazing cardamom vanilla pudding. Fresh donuts that melt in your mouth.. AND…dipping pudding? Be still my beating heart!

Needless to say, my heart beats for the moment I get to go back and re-live that first bite into the Sichuan sandwich washed down with a swig of a black flag. Now, THAT is good living folks!!

The Short Version
We fell in LOVE with
-Food: The Sichuan pork sandwich: perfectly seasoned and cooked to crispy perfection. The soft unassuming toasted bun mixed with the pickled veggies and perfectly balanced mayo make this a new “go to” order
-Cocktail: The Black Flag- love at first sip!

Needs a little dialing in
-Popcorn chicken: loved the light crunch on the outside, but you do smell the fish oil before you see the dish, and the salt needs to be dialed back.
-Ribs: While the taste and presentation were great, it’s a bit if an adventure to cut through that hunk o meat…and not something you’ll want to tackle after a few rounds of drinks!

To summarize, I have a home bar that I Sad isn’t stumbling distance but is completely worth the drive and parking adventure to go enjoy. If you know what’s good for you, you’ll be seen drinking and eating at this new Ballard hot spot.

Restaurant Review: Bellini Italian Bistro (Seattle)

Belltown finally has a fantastic Italian Bistro! We have walked past this little spot many times as they “coming soon” sign was up and wondered what exactly this location would be. When an Bellini opened as an Italian Bistro, we were delighted! The interior decor, music playing, hospitable service and the delicious smells wafting from the open kitchen style all grab ahold of your sense and entice you in!

We started with a glass of wine and a beer on tap, and took a look at the appetizer salads. Truthfully, the healthy portions of amazingly delicious mixed salad with fresh ingredients like salmon, salami, marinated grilled veggies, mozzarella cheese… these delightful salads would have been enough to satisfy us when paired with the amazing warm crusty bread with olive oil they serve. Let me pause here for a moment. You might not agree but I totally judge a restaurant by the type of bread they serve and let me tell you Bellini’s bread alone earns them a gold star in my book! This bread is perfectly crusty on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside and a hint of sweetness that just makes me want to curl up with a basket of it and cuddle. It gets even better; they use the same recipe for the bread that they use for their pizza dough. It’s baked fresh daily, then cut into fresh hot little bites of goodness and served with a delicious olive oil and balsamic dipping sauce. If the BREAD is that good, you know the meal is going to be amazing.The salads we ordered to start were amazing and could have possibly settled for sharing an entree but after that teaser of our amazing starters we had to proceed with our entree orders. He ordered the Cimarosa salad with smoked salmon, arugula, and roasted peppers tossed in EVOO and lemon juice and chose the Fettuccini all’Ortolana which featured fresh homemade fettuccini with fresh spinach, peppers, artichokes (substituted sun-dried tomatoes instead of these) and roasted eggplants.

It was hard to decide what to eat, because I literally wanted a bite of EVERYTHING! After taking my sweet time reading the menu over and over to try to narrow down my plethora of choices, I opted for the Verdi with romaine hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted eggplants, artichoke hearts, roasted peppers and substituted the feta for mozzarella. For my entrée, I ordered the Parmigiana de Melenzane off the “antipasti” part of the menu, which featured layers of eggplant in marinara sauce with fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Every bite was AMAZING! The salads were perfectly portioned and tossed with just the right amount of olive oil and lemon juice. The entrees were delicious and were healthy portions, just like the appetizers were! His pasta was deliciously fresh, both the sauce and the pasta itself. My “appetizer” wound up being a perfect size for a meal, and I’m not sure where I found the room to finish that heaping plate of expertly cooked eggplant, sauce and cheese but I leave no bites behind on an incredibly food adventure like that! I found the room and finished every last bite, it was too good to have the good sense to stop eating when I was full. The happy whistle and singing of the chef sweetly echoed through the restaurant, and only added to the wonderful ambiance! I just wanted to sit there and soak it up! To top it off, the chef brought us out a bowl of complimentary fresh cut honey dew melon! It was the perfect ending to an amazingly filling meal!

The service was first class, the ambiance was inviting, chill and approachable. They have a fantastic little place here and they are the sweetest most humble people! When we tried to give the chef a tip at the end, he refused to accept it and said to please let the tip be our spreading the word about Bellini. Ladies and gents, this place is LEGIT and a new favorite!   I can’t wait to go back and try their pizza and hit them up for lunch! I’m still have happy visions of how amazing that dinner was!

Bellini Seattle Face Book

La Fontana Siciliana {Restaurant Review}

fontanasumeerheader — La Fontana Siciliana (Photo Credit: La Fontana Siciliana Website)

La Fontana is a wonderful little oasis located off Blanchard Street in Belltown. As you walk under the iron pergola you’re instantly transported to another place as you enter the greenery filled courtyard, complete with a bubbling fountain (thus the restaurant namesake). From the al fresco tables proudly supporting the crisp white linens, evenly spaced to allow for a cozy and secluded feel, to the attentive and authentic service, every bit of this experience felt like a vacation. I would have said “screamed vacation” but it’s such a quiet and respectable little courtyard that screaming seems quite out of nature for this little gem of an eatery.

The menu features home-style Sicilian fare, complete with carefully selected wine and beer selection, which compliment the flavors, and complexity of each dish. (I can personally vouch for the house Chianti that was QUITE enjoyable!). The appetizer choice was basically made for us, who WOULDN’T choose the daily special of orange caprice, a variation which featured fresh sliced oranges instead of tomatoes. The hardest part was deciding on ONE entrée but that’s the best part of about a table for two… two-entrée choices! After MUCH deliberation we settled on the Cannelloni di Pollo and the Pollo Marsala, which is, of course, Sicily’s most famous dish as the menu stated.

We leisurely chatted and enjoyed the bubbling brook, as our food was prepared, and were thankful that it didn’t immediately appear. The enjoyment and relaxation of that courtyard needed savoring, almost as much as the flour-less chocolate cake and cappuccino for dessert, but I’m getting ahead of myself. Out came our food and the large pounded-out Pollo Marsala chicken breast was perfectly covered in a delicious and surprisingly light Marsala wine and mushroom sauce accompanied by the cutest little fried potatoes and olive oil rubbed summer snap peas I’ve ever seen. The two homemade Cannelloni were expertly filled with a perfect blend of chicken, ricotta cheese and basil with what we could tell, was a fresh house made tomato sauce.

Flourless chocolate cake with raspberry drizzle and cappuccinos

After we had fully enjoyed our entrees, our plates were expertly whisked away and replaced with the silver dessert tray, boasting such goodies as tiramisu, chocolate drizzled and powder sugar dusted dessert cannoli and flan. After one refusal, we called the waiter back over and promptly ordered a cappuccino and a slide of the flour-less chocolate cake drizzled with fresh raspberry sauce.

Since both of us can, and truly do enjoy, cooking at home, the bar is set reasonably high on what a good meal consist of. When the check came, we agreed this was a meal well spent. Wines and beers are under $10 per glass, and the entrees range from $17 – $30.

The Sexton: Ballard Date Night Adventures

The Sexton

Southern comfort, Ballard style. If you enjoy a good drink, great ambiance and southern food…look no further!

Character: Comfortable, sophisticated yet approachable with almost a saloon style charm. From the mason jars for water glasses and chandeliers to the wooden tables, to their array of music, vintage flair and reclaimed style decoration, you will feel right at home. The entire atmosphere was cozy, comfortable and inviting, perfect for date night or drinks with a group of friends. They have a large back patio and a surprisingly large amount of inside seating that will suit any mood you’re in, from seats at the bar, to the bay window style seating in the lovely big front widows, or cozy booth in the back, or an array of tables scattered throughout the open space. I have to give them 5 stars for EXCELLENT customer service! They were attentive but not overly so, allowing us to have time to just sit, relax and observe.

The Menu: Their small plates are just that, small, but there is nothing fragile about them.
With the theme of refined southern you’ll find items like fried Brussels sprouts and sea salt, apple cider braised ribs with Bourbon ginger and BBQ sauce, hush puppies with roasted red pepper aioli or corn bread with roasted red pepper butter, collard greens…you get the picture. Prices range from $3 – $13 for the food and the drinks. The flavors were approachable and true to southern style, fried! Rest assured, like any good southern host, they make sure you won’t leave the table hungry.

The Sexton's RIDICULOUSLY DELICIOUS Fried Brussels sprouts — The Sexton’s RIDICULOUSLY DELICIOUS Fried Brussels sprouts

Our Order: We got the fried Brussels sprouts, a side of shrimp and the fried chicken. Hostess was gracious and accommodating to my food allergies (no dairy) and personally assured that we were taken care of. I wasn’t amazed by the shrimp (also had it out of context since it’s usually served on some good southern grits), but those Brussels sprouts are sinfully addicting and the fried chicken would have made Colonel Sanders green with envy. It was incredibly moist and flavorful, fried enough to make it crispy but not too oily, crispy yet tender, batter was very flavorful and proportionate. None of the ingredients are compensating or covering up in this fried chicken like in so many other over fried, over battered, less that moist fried chickens I’ve tasted.

Overall: This place makes me want to put on the nearest floral patterned summer dress, relax on the back patio and “bet on the bar tender” (the Bar tender will make you a hand crafted personalized cocktail based on your tastes)…while enjoying an order of those fried Brussels sprouts!

Guest Post: John Lee Bell

Ladies and gentlemen, fashion DOES exist in Seattle!

In this case, the photographer is a fashionable as those in the shot! I met John Lee Bell on the street of Seattle when he was doing some fashion scouting for his fashion blog.

He also photographs for events and wonderfully captures the beauty he sees around him.

I love following his updates on Intsagram and seeing the creme dela creme of Seattle street fashion. Without further commentary from your very own peanut gallery… John Lee Bell!!

John Lee Bell

Blog: johnleebell.wordpress.com
Website: johnleebell.com
Instagram: john_bell_in_seattle
Twitter: @johnleebell
Pintrest: johnleebell
Facebook: john bell photography

What got you started in fashion?

I got started from the fashionable eye of an ex girlfriend who was overloaded with great style. She loosened me up to more new and fun style, with class.

How did you start photographing?
I took up photography in 2010 because I am a people watcher and photography was a good way to remember all the cool things I see.

What camera do you shoot with?
For my fashion blog I shoot with a nikon D800 with a 50mm lens, though looking to try out a 85mm lens.

What is your favorite season to dress for?
I love to layer, so being in Seattle its every season…ok not all of summer. But I do like the colder months with the scarfs and cool pea coats.

Do you have a favorite store? Favorite designer?
I have a few stores. I tend to go to H&M because the price is so low and they have some fun clothes. Then I go to j.crew, Banana Republic. Just discovered Blackbird in Ballard, really like the jeans they have.

What pair of shoes can you not live without?
Well, since I have about 5 pairs, I will have to say my Sperry Top-Siders. Such a classic shoe. I mean you can wear these things with just about anything! Socks, no socks, suit, shorts… endless.

What new color/pattern are you obsessed with right now?
For women, I am crazy over polka dots. For men bright colored pants… And denim for all!

How do you stay informed on the latest fashion?
GQ is my number 1. But I’m always looking at store catalogs and browsing other fashion magazines. Plus with my people watching skill I can just see what I like.

What’s your latest favorite women’s fashion trend? Men’s?
Besides polka dots for women, I love wrist candy! Especially a gold watch and bracelets. Throw in a turquoise ring and BAM! I have to pick up my jaw off the ground.

With men I like to see a fitted outfit with color, rolled up pants and going commando with the feet (no socks). And ditch that white undershirt that you can see popping out of the front of your collar. Streamline your look men, no baggie!

What’s your superpower? Party tricks count!
I can make an irish car bomb disappear pretty quick! And play guitar and harmonica at the same time. But after the car bomb disappears of course

Airfield Estates: Wine Tasting Wednesday

The sun had just started to peek out for the first day in years, or so it felt, and company was in town. What did we do? Well Wednesday afternoon wine tasting of course! We made a B line for the Airfield Estates Tasting room nestled in the “Wine Country” portion of Woodinville. Walking into the room, you’re greeted by the aviation charm and very friendly staff. Jim and Jim took great care of us, ushering us to a table and promptly getting glasses in our hands to start the tasting!

You know it’s a good tasting when you walk out with 16 bottles of wine! That wasn’t even the wine ordering! Their wines are so flavorful, dynamic and yet affordable even on retail prices. When the last double magnum of the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon showed up for my birthday, so did a membership to the Airfield Estates Wine Club. Here is a shameless plug for joining their wine club: “There is no joining fee. Simply commit to purchasing a minimum of 2 cases of wine per calendar year and receive a 20% discount on all wine purchases”. Once you do a tasting you’ll see how possible it is to achieve the 2 case minimum per year, their wines are truly wonderful! http://www.airfieldwines.com/wine_club/

We were BLOWN AWAY by the Pinot Gris, Ruby Rose, Merlot and Runway Syrah. Already a fan of their Viognier as one of the rare white wines I actually truly enjoy, it was delightful to find an equally as wonderful Pinot Grios. The flavor was so balanced and drinkable, and would truly pair with any summer type meal with which you’d traditionally enjoy a white. The Ruby Rose was just out of this WORLD! There aren’t words that I could ever pen to do that lovely pink bottle justice. You simply need to go purchase a case of it immediately. It was dry, balanced, and not too sweet. Just delightful! The Merlot we described as “active” because it truly has various flavors that shine throughout the sip and plays with your taste buds. As for the Syrah, I’m already craving a good steak or braised pork shoulder to enjoy a bottle of that wonderful magic with!

WHITES

2011 Sauvignon Blanc ( $12/bottle; Member Price:$9.60)
Light-bodied, dry, and refreshing, this wine lights up your taste buds with flavors of lemon-lime and grapefruit. Well balanced with bright acidity, it sparks a clean, crisp finish that pairs perfectly with oysters, tossed salads, light fish, and chicken.

2011 Viognier ( $15/bottle; Member Price:$12)
85% stainless steel fermented and 15% aged in neutral oak. This whine exhibits flavors of lemon leading to a round-mid-palate and crisp finish. This lightly oaked Viognier pairs well with root vegetables, salmon, lobster, and braised chicken.

2011 Flygirl White ( $12/bottle; Member Price:$9.60)
39% Viognier, 35% Semillon, & 26% Pinot Gris. This signature white blend is crisp and dry showcasing layers of melon and citrus fruit. Enjoy with lighter fare, such as a salad, pasta, seafood, and poultry.

2011 Pinot Gris ( $15/bottle; Member Price:$12)
This fruit-forward Pinot Gris reveals nuances of pear, melon, & tropical fruit. With a rounded medium-bodied mouthfeel & soft well-balanved finish, this wine is enjoyable on its own or pairs nicely with a cheese plate, light pastas, halibut, or chicken.

REDS

2010 Bombshell Red ( $16/bottle; Member Price:$12.80)
37% Merlot, 37% Syrah, 14% Malbe, 5% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc. A beloved favorite of many, this approachable signature red blend has dark overlapping aromas of plum, blackberry, and a hit of cocoa, leaving lingering flavors of dark fruit and toasted oak on the palate. With firm tannins and a round, full-bodied mouthfeel, this blend pairs well with a wide range of foods.

2010 Tempranillo ( $20/bottle; Member Price:$16)
This full-bodied Tempranillo showcases layers of boysenberry and black cherry with earthy nuances and finishes with lingering tannins. Traditionally paired with Spanish style dishes, this wine complements flavorful grilled meats or vegetables, mushroom risotto, and hard cheeses.

2009 Merlot ( $20/bottle; Member Price:$16)
This Merlot captivates the senses with intense flavors of dark berry and plum with nuances of clove. Supple tannins and a full-bodied mouthfeel create a balance that can hold hit own against hearty meats, yet pairs perfectly with pasta.
Gold Medal, 2012 Dallas Morning News Wine Competition

2009 Cabernet Sauvignon ( $20/bottle; Member Price:$16)
Sources from 20 year old vines on our estate vineyard, this Cabernet Sauvignon showcases layers of cherry, blackcurrant, and toasted oak. Full-bodied and smooth with integrated tannins, this wine pairs well with steak, rich sauces, and robust cheeses.

+2011 Ruby Rose ( $15/bottle; Member Price:$12)
100% Sangiovese. This rosé has enticing aromas of strawberries and cream with undertones of pink grapefruit leading to a light bodied mouthfeel and zesty refreshing finish. Crisp and dry, this wine beckons you to kick your feet up and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

+2010 Runway Syrah ($18/bottle)
This dark, concentrated Syrah possesses flavors of dark berry, clove, and white pepper. With silky smooth tannins and a plush round mouthfeel, this well-balanced wine pairs great with lamb, beef, and aged gouda. (This wine was specifically handcrafted for select wine shops and restaurants, and it is only available online to Airfield Estates Wine Club Members.)

Location and Contact Info

14450 Woodinville-Redmond Road, Suite #109
Woodinville, WA 98072 USA
425.877.1006
info@airfieldwines.com

The Ambiance

Just for fun I asked our out of town guest to do a mini interview on our tasting! See answers below!

What were your first impressions of the tasting room and types of wine when you walked in?
My first impression was the simple ambiance of the tasting room and the throwback to a time of great American pride and spirit. The staff were knowledgeable, friendly and hospitable! I loved looking at all of the bottles and the other displays.
What was the most memorable wine you tasted?
Absolutely the Pinot!
What would you write on a suggestion card for the winery to exceed your expectations on your next visit?
Should change glasses with each pour so that previous wine does not inhibit or change taste of new wine. Also should offer a little cracker to cleanse palate before each new taste.

And… two boxes came home with us to reunite with their Magnum family!

Wine Love: Menage a Trios

Oh Ménage a Trios…how do I love you? My evenings would not be the same without the nightly glass (or two…ish) to relax! No meal would be the same! My sangria would be naked!

I fondly refer to it as the gateway-red. Ménage a Trios is one of the most affordable and most delicious bottles of red wine you can find. If you have read my posts or follow me on instagram…you’ll notice the abundance of Menage a Trios in the photos! I seriously LOVE their wine! The table red is my no fail red wine for ANY meal, party, event or.. well day of the week! You can’t go wrong! Their rose is balanced and just sweet enough. Even their table white is a delight! Just had to make it rhyme BUT coming from a confirmed red wine drinker finding a white that I truly like is rare and to be celebrated!

Well I’m honored that not only did they post yesterday’s instagram photo of taco Tuesday in action (recipe STILL to come) on their Facebook page, but they also contacted me and asked if I would like to be their FIRST EVER TWITTER SUPER FAN!

Would I EVER!!! I’m HONORED! Pop the wine, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere and there will be celebration!! They’ll be announcing at 3pm so be sure you Follow them on Twitter to see the announcement in action and Like them on Facebook so you can check out their awesome fan photos and fun wall posts!! You’ll learn all kinds of fun ideas like the idea you’ll see at my next wine party! (see below)

“In honor of Wine Wednesday, let’s plan your next party – a wine party! There are so many options: blind wine tasting, regular wine tasting, food & wine pairing… We have an idea for a fun game you can play at your next party: Color one end of 5 corks blue. Fill a basket with 50+ corks (we know you have a lot!) and ask your friends to choose a cork. Those who pick the blue-end corks win wine charms or a corkscrew!”

What a day what a day! And wine Wednesday at that!! And, while I’m STILL excited about cooking up Ratatouille tonight for the first time, this announcement really takes the.. bottle!!

Cheers everyone! Happy Wine Wednesday & Almost Friday!!!

Facebook love from my beloved Menage a Trios

Portland Adventures: Grain & Gristle

We LOVE Portland! Don’t get me wrong… Seattle is my home but Portland is my stomachs home! Thankfully, not only do we have family there that we LOVE to visit, but he’s a FOODIE and has taken us to some really wonderful places! Portland has a way with food unlike any other city I’ve been to yet. It’s like Manna from heaven… delicious restaurants, pubs, taverns, bistros and bars just laying around on the streets waiting for you to walk in!

This last trip ended on a WONDERFUL note. NOT the ending part… that always sucks…but the restaurant we had Sunday dinner at was just… INCREDIBLE! It’s my FAVORITE place we’ve been to in Portland YET! Grain & Gristle has a laid back, rustic modern tavern feel, as you can see from the picture, excellent service, and an incredible menu! They also have an EXCELLENT Bloody Mary which you can order “dragged through the garden”…“kick the vermouth in the side with a pair of steel-toed boots” anyone?…and this is coming from a Woman who doesn’t particularly like Bloody Mary’s. Their AMAZING pickled cauliflower simply furthered my recent budding obsession with pickled veggies and you’ll see some post on those, let’s call them “adventures” as soon as I find a few mason jars!

Ordered:
Daily Special: Roasted Carrots with Salsa Verde…and another once we finished the first
Grilled asparagus, soft egg, butter leaf, herb vin
Beets, fresh chevre, mint
Mussel frites, Belgian style, aioli
Braised pork shoulder, smokey baked beans

Everything was just… divine! The Salsa Verde was so delicious and fresh, the pork aficionado himself said it was the BEST braised pork he’s had yet (and he orders it WHENEVER it’s on the menu!), the frites were freakishly delicious and my grilled asparagus salad….was….just… DELICIOUS!!!

When we were leaving we saw the table next to use get their order and Currywurst with chopped egg and fries….I’ll be back for you!

Grilled asparagus, soft egg, butter leaf, herb vin

Lost River Winery: Weekend Wine Tasting

Last Saturday’s weather was just delightful! We were still recovering from our jet lag and getting back into the usual routine. So, abiding by my weekend “stay-cation” ritual of heading down to Pike Place market I grabbed my market bag and tootled down to meander around the market for a while. My first class griller had decided that he/we were tasted up for some grilled Bratwurst and we needed some Uli’s Famous Sausages and a few amazing potato rolls from Macrina Bakery to build our delicious dinner. Recipe posted here and I, and my stomach, are proud to report that they turned out completely AMAZING! We’ll be making that recipe a grilling staple this summer!! Bring on the sun Seattle, we’ll grab a keg of Georgetown Manny’s Pale Ale and give you a run for you money!

But back to my story! There I was, strolling home on a Saturday afternoon, enjoying the sunshine and still on a vacation hangover from our two weeks gallivanting around Spain so I had no sense of urgency or duty. Then I happened upon the Lost River Winery tasting room. They have a lovey open space nestled into the north side of Pike Place Market that I had walked past dozens of times and a noon wine tasting on a lazy stay-cation sunny Saturday sounded like a marvelous life choice!

Ram greeted me as I walked it and invited me to a wine tasting… YES PLEASE! I chose my seat at the bar while he masterfully started me down the journey of tasting some truly wonderful wines! The list below was included in my $5 wine tasting and I have to say it was a delightful line up! Featuring a wide array of their wines, from red to wine and dessert wine the tasting truly showcased the flavor and style of the Lost River wines. The well-stocked tasting bar and knowledgeable staff (Thanks Ram!) of their Seattle tasting room is a delightful oasis from the hustle and bustle of the market.

For being a staunch red wine drinker and dessert wine averse, it might surprise you that the only two bottles I took home were a white and a white dessert wine! That’s how delicious they were!

$5 Tasting (may 5th menu)

2010 Pinot Gris $14/bottle, 741 cases made

My review: Light and refreshing. No lingering taste and a clean finish
In their words: “A great cocktaip wine and paired with spicy food! 100% Pinot Gris, A bright, crisp and refreshing stainless-steel tank aged Pinot with just a touch of sweetness and packed with a zesty green apple , mellow, lime and white grapefruit flavors.

2009 Rainshadow $15/bottle, 430 cases made

My review: The Semillon give it an interesting twist. It was described as a “food wine” which is apparent in it’s simple yet complex flavor and flow letting food enhance and highlight different flavors.
In their words: “A fine chardonnay alternative. 40% Sauvignon Blanc/ 60% Semillon. This light-oaked, dry, white Bordeaux-style blend is named in honor of the magnificent North Cascade Mountains that block rain from Washington’s coastal storms making the eastern part of our state arid, warm and the perfect climate for growing wine grapes.

2008 Merlot $24/bottle, 494 cases made

My review: Spice forward with a balanced full finish.
In their words: 92% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc. This wine exhibits notes of black currant and cassis, cherry, and licorice. 2008 represents a near perfect vintage for Washington Merlot. This wine will improve with an additional year in bottle, and, with proper cellaring, should age well until at least 2015.

NV Western Red $17/bottle

My review: Slight slice, drinkable with any type of food. Not as smooth but lingering with a nice finish.
In their words: 75% Merlot/25%Cabernet Franc. Western Red is a Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc that celebrates the Western Red cedar trees that surround our winery along the Lost River in the upper Methow Valley.

2007 Syrah $24/bottle, 394 cases made

My review: Jammy yet simple with red berry notes and a very smooth finish.
In their words: 100% Syrah. This wine exhibits a blend of terroir expression between the cobbly gravels of Stone Valley Vineyard (the famous Walla Walla “Rocks”) and the deep wind blown silt “Loess” soils of the Les Collines Vineyard. The wine displays distinctive black pepper and cherry notes with a strong character of bitter chocolate, coffee and smoke. The aging in barrel and restrained use of new French oak lengthens the wine’s finish and enhances its fruit aromas.

2008 Cedarosa $26/bottle, 301 cases made

My review: Rich tannins, silky and soft with a lingering tail. My taste buds DANCED with this one!!
In their words: 45% Cabernet Franc/55% Merlot. A complex and rich Bordeaux style blend featuring a medley of bright, fruity Merlot flavors intermingled with the dark and earthy underbrush flavors of Cabernet franc- commonly known as our hedonistic fruit bong. A very versatile wine in the kitchen.

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon $24/bottle, 595 cases made

My review: Smooth and full flavor, robust taste finishes delightfully with a light tannin forward flavor that lingers delightfully on the tongue.
In their words: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon/10% Merlot/5% Cabernet Franc. This robust yet elegant cab-based blend is aged in French oak barrels for two years then bottle aged for 1 year prior to release. If you enjoy a hearty red wine with more oak, tannin and acid then this your best bet.

2009 Late Harvest Semillon $17.90/bottle, 125 cases

My review: Smooth, sweet but NOT syrupy as most dessert wines are. Incredibly crisp finish without a sweet linger. Resides on the fruit notes. Would LOVE to pair with a vanilla cookie or biscotti!
In their words: Semillon is used to make the greatest dessert wines in the world! Ours has flavors of pear, honey & citrus with silky texture in the mouth.

Restaurant Review: Bisato (Belltown)

How many times had we walked past this little quiet looking bistro on the corner of 1st and Battery? It’s simple, stylish and unassuming exterior invited us in one Thursday night, which is the weekly date night, and we wanted to go “experience” something new. Little did we know…

They serve a seasonal rotating menu of small plates which they tout as having a “Venetian flair”. Chef Scott Carsberg masterfully crafts innovative and richly flavorful dishes. The menu is a feat for the eyes, you won’t know what to order first so my advice would be to order them all! Their ingredients are so fresh, in a way that you can only experience by tasting the rich flavors yourself. The prices are quite reasonable and you will not regret any dish you get. You will however, regret the decision to pass up the meal with the orange confit with chocolate caramel mousse. Don’t ask questions, just order one and enjoy.

Walking into the restaurant is like walking into a haven. The interior is relaxing and inviting in a way that I would describe as casual yet professional. The welcoming interior layout brings your attention first to the beautiful bar which showcases a wide variety of perfectly presented bottles and ingredients which the very knowledgeable bar tender can us to hand craft a delightful beverage. Anything with their house made sweet and sour get my vote! We got the Vaporetto, (pictured at right) and it was just divine!! The second thing you’ll notice is the visibility into the immaculately clean and simply decorated exhibition style kitchen. We took a seat at the bar and were able to see our dishes being prepared with the utmost of care by what you can clearly see are professionally trained hands. The detailed presentation showed 5 star quality and a truly fastidiously professional caliber. The entire staff was quite knowledgeable and it was delightful to see that the hands-on owner does still exits. We shook his hand ourselves!

Each dish was a full experience, starting with a fresh marinated sardine served with shaved fennel. You could truly taste how fresh the little fishie was and that dish merely started our dining “experience”. We also ordered the red romaine salad with 20 year balsamic and olive oil, which, on the menu presented as any other restaurant salad but was so incredibly delicious that we ordered another! They use an immaculate 20 year balsamic and the flavor of the salad was so simple and perfectly balanced that I could write about it for days. We instantly went to Pike Place market the next day in search of a good 20 year balsamic. The salad literally changed the way that I will experience salads for the rest of my life. Since one of my favorite dishes is salad with balsamic, my entire standard for a balsamic is “ruined” for the better. The braised short rib in barolo wine was delightfully flavorful but the real showcase dish of our “entrees” was the seared lamb chops (pictured at left) with whipped potato. This dish was so flavorful, and cooked to perfection with such warming flavors that I wish I’d had more room to order and enjoy another!

In essence, Bisato delivered a new class of dining experience with their incredibly reasonable prices, inviting and relaxing atmosphere, knowledgeable staff and truly incredibly flavorful dishes. We can’t wait to return and enjoy the next tasteful expression of ingredients. They also serve a drinks only happy hour which features some of their showcase drinks and is our on our list go-to happy hours.

Website: http://www.bisato.com/