French Food - an indulgence!

It has been too long since I posted. I was traveling last week for work, so I have missed my kitchen. My intentions were to share with you a culinary treat from my very own kitchen. Instead, during the hustle and bustle of traveling with work, my hubby and I managed to visit one of our favorite local restaurants. We visited a little French bistro in our neighborhood. It certainly helps that we know the chef, but let me tell you - we had a divine time Saturday night. I must tell you about it.

In this bistro, there is a chef's table which is basically two barstools that overlook the chef's kitchen. You basically belly up to the bar. If you are lucky enough to sit there, not only do you get to watch the master at work, but you also get to sample many treats.

The first thing that he prepared for us was a pissaladière with caramelized onions, sauteed mushrooms, and sprinkled with cheese. It was yummy and a great way to whet our appetite. Of course, the meal is served with fresh baked bread, which always comes warm with the most creamiest of butter. Even though to many it is just bread, to others (including me), it is the utmost of comfort food. I just had to share a picture.



Now for starters, I had a signature salad. It was a baby lettuce wedge with a home made blue cheese dressing. It was topped with crispy granny smith apples and perfectly sauteed applewood bacon. Even if you don't like blue cheese, you would love this dressing. The blue cheese is faintly noticable, not overpowering.

For dinner, I chose the fish. It was a pan-seared grouper on a bed of ever so subtle garlic mashed potatoes and perfectly sauteed green beans. Notice the capers drizzled over the divinely cooked fish. He also topped the dish with caramelized red onions. I wish you could smell and taste the picture!!! It was de-lish!



Our evening was capped off with a wonderful creme brulee, which is my hubby's favorite!! It was a wonderful and relaxing evening.

What To Drink - Well, I completely bucked protocal and tradition and simply had champagne the entire evening. Champagne or sparkling wine is one of my favorite indulgences. An adage that I live by: Never wait for a special occasion to pop a cork!! Life is too short, and champagne is too good! Enjoy life, drink bubbly!!!

Thank you for indulging me on this restaurant fete. Our next meal together will include an adventure in my very on kitchen!! I'm not sure what is on the menu for this weekend, but I'm sure the market will lend a hand in my choices. Until we can visit again.... Raise a glass and Cheers to You!