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14 E Cota Street David, CT, and I did make it out a few weeks ago to a new restaurant in Santa Barbara called Square One and we were all very pleasantly surprised. It was a fabulous evening, with amazing wines and truly superb entrees that challenged our palates and introduced new pairings into our culinary repertoire. The appetizer menu alone was enough to keep me entertained for the evening with interesting choices such as Poached and Lacquered Foie Gras, Grilled Quail, and Kumamoto Oysters with Cucumber Water, Caviar, and Heirloom Cucumber Relish. For the vegetarian in us they offer Spring Garlic and Fingerling Potato Soup and Warm Beet Salad. We decided to order the Tuna Tartare, always a favorite, and the Foie Gras. To accompany our apps we took Carolyne’s advice on a half bottle of Sauternes. Coming from one of the owners, and the woman in charge of the wine buying, we felt this was a safe recommendation and we were very pleased with our choice. It was the perfect mix of crisp, fruity flavors and that subtle hint of sweetness that characterizes good Sauternes. For our entrees, David and CT went with the Duo of Beef, which is Seared NY Steak, Braised Short Ribs, Pomme Puree, and Red Wine Gelee. I went with our server’s recommendation of the Seared Rare Arctic Char with Confit Fennel, Spinach, and Spiced Carrot. I had never tried char before, much less heard of it, so this was quite a treat. My entree lived up to all of its praise and I can now proudly say I have tried char (I was vegan for five years before entering the wine industry, so you can understand what a big deal this was for me!). We ordered a bottle of Gigondas to drink with dinner, which was quite tasty. If you are wondering why there were no Carina Cellars wines at this dinner it is because we drank them all earlier with friends at Sevilla, another restaurant up the street. You can read my past review of their restaurant on our website as well. I could have tried everything and drifted happily into a food coma, but of course we opted for dessert and coffee instead. CT and I shared the Molten Chocolate Purse with hazelnuts, espresso foam, and praline dust, which was like no other chocolate dessert I have ever tried. If you like chocolate, you have to try this delicious and totally indulgent concoction. So, make an effort to check out Square One next time you are looking for an interesting and altogether satisfying night out. The prices are the same as any restaurant in the gourmet classification, entrees between $18-$30, and their wine list has something for everyone. And, of course, let me know what you think at jody@carinacellars.com. Cheers and Buon Appetito! |
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Restaurant (June 2006)