Rouge Tomate10 East 60th Street
646-237-8977
We've been eating out less these days, but still keep a long list of places we'd like to try. The NYT "Dining In" and the resturant reviews in local magazines continue to intrigue us. Recently there was a write up about "Rouge Tomate". It sounded like a large new space (risky in this economy) but the menu looked interesting.
As with any favorably reviewed restaurant, it was hard to snag a reservation except 'early'in the evening. It's a large, 2 story, space with a bar and cafe on the first floor and a restaurant below. Interestingly, it's in the original location of the Copacabana night club. The room is modern and comfortable without being fussy and the kitchen is visible in the middle of the dining room. (see picture). There's a nice buzz - although we were there on Friday night and it wasn't full.
The menu is diverse, with interesting choices, and is determinedly 'locavore' with most items including a lengthy CV. Food prices are "reasonable" for the neighborhood but the wine list, in my view, was very pricey.
Chris has an odd attraction to brussel sprouts and ordered a
Salad of Brussels Sprout Leaves Market Pear, Berkshire Prosciutto, Balsamic, Halzenut
and I started with
an excellentCelery Root and Almond Panna Cotta Peekytoe Crab, Grapefruit,Tarragon, Citron Vinegar
Chris frequently orders rabbit when it's available. This was boned and rolled.
Farm Raised Rabbit Fleischnacke Chesnut Pasta, Market Apple, Celery Root, Tarragon--it was terrific!
My entre was Pasture Raised Guinea Hen Market Squash, Fall Spiced Seckle Pear, Chard, Honey Vinegar Jus
We drank a fine Chilean Cabernet and found our meal to be flavourful and satisfying.
We had french press coffee to finish the meal. We're sudenly seeing that everywhere. We really enjoy it prepared that way when we're in Paris and had resurrected our pots at home from early (first) married days.
We'll be back.
