Last weekend my family and I went up to Seattle, Washington to watch my daughter graduate from Evergreen College. This proud mom felt a lavish celebration was in order and to celebrate we went to this fabulous little Spanish tapas restaurant tucked up in the little neighborhood called Capitol Hill. The people, the service and the food were just so exquisite that I felt some kudos were in order.
After calling in a frazzled state to change our reservations due to unforeseen traffic the evening of and all the previous phone calls to arrange our “banquet” menu the staff remained friendly and professional. The host even warmly greeted me by name at the door knowing we had sat in horrible traffic just to get there and suggested I relax that we were in good hands. This gesture completely endeared me to him and put us all at ease immediately. We were then lead to our table handed glasses of wine and the progression of food began. I breathed a sigh of sigh of relief. The celebrating began as they weren’t kidding when they said it would be a banquet, a feast to end all feasts for sure.
First came the platters of Spanish olives, almonds and bacon wrapped dates AKA “Cheap Dates”. Then this fabulous little morsel called “Queso Azul”. Oh my goodness… I could have eaten the whole plate full these little treasures. Tiny little blue cheese soufflés with fruit compote and port wine syrup. So yummy! Then a platter of potato croquettes with smoked tomato jam and Cotija cheese covered in a crispy horseradish coating. Our entrees were a grilled pork loin with this fabulous roasted corn and yam side dish and a nice snapper dish served with fresh papaya relish.
Did I mention that the banquet menu is served family style? Well it is and boy was it everyman for himself at our table. But the food kept coming and every dish more delicious than the last. We eventually were forced to slow down the pace or not have room for dessert.
Lastly, the desserts and, mind you, not just not any ordinary desserts. We ordered two, first a wonderful concoction of chocolate and a red pepper spice known as their “El Diablo” dessert, served over this gooey marshmallow base and sprinkled with cocoa. Then another creative dessert known as their “Mojito semifreddo”, a tangy custard laced with refreshing mint. Both desserts were ever so very creative and unique, and very very tasty.
My only regret is that we don’t have this fabulous restaurant here in Long Beach. But if you are ever in Seattle I highly recommend this unique experience. I guarantee you will not be disappointed. Tell them Kathi from “Cougar’s Corner” sent you….Bon Appetite!