Enjoying a glass of wine before my reservation at Le Cheri, I was pleasantly surprised by a gift of lovely moules. My initial reaction was cold mussel soup?! But the savory mollusk gems were swimming in a light vermouth & Pernod cream that was perfectly balanced by tiny heirloom tomatoes.
A little rain couldn’t stampede the food parade that ensured. We sat in the garden and were pampered like french royalty until droplets threatened to ruin my birthday date.
The staff handled the movement of our table and another four-top inside like pros. We continued our experience without a hitch. Our first course was the smoked salmon and beef tartare. The former was sliced so razor-thin, it melted in my mouth and the latter was a hefty portion, tasty and mustardy.
We then had a mid-course of the halibut and foie gras. The halibut was perfectly poached and flaked under the slightest touch from a fork. But the foie stole the show, dancing in its phyllo dough skirt with sherry-soaked cherries.
Last, I had the foie-stuffed quail that was baked in a tiny iron pot, sealed with dough that looked like soft pretzel. The meat was moist, delicately seasoned and not over powered by the foie stuffing. My date had the trout. He was amazed at the large portion and reveled in the crunch of the crispy skin and the smokiness of the duck lentils.
Chef Steve DeLorean then sent out a cheese plate and glass of french dessert wine in celebration of the night. As we left, the host asked if I’d like to thank chef personally by dipping into the kitchen. In the middle of service, he gave me a hug and a sang a quick, yet endearing rendition of “Happy Birthday!”
All in all, Le Cheri is worth the buck: a beautiful space, stellar service and delectable fare. Thanks to all the staff who made my 34th a memorable one.
The Feeding Tube 