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	<title>Duck and Dijon</title>
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	<description>Recipes, Restaurants &#38; Reviews</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Fri, 21 Sep 2012 03:15:25 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>Agape Substance &#8211; Paris</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/agape-substance-paris/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/agape-substance-paris/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Sep 2012 02:32:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[agape]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[menu]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pairing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[paris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[substance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tasting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wine]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.duckanddijon.com/?p=691</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When we decided to return to Paris, I was committed to eating better than our last visit. I spent more time researching and more time asking for recommendations from trusted... <a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/agape-substance-paris/">Read More &#187;</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When we decided to return to Paris, I was committed to eating better than our last visit. I spent more time researching and more time asking for recommendations from trusted friends. What resulted was something that far exceeded my expectations.  Agape Substance was the crown jewel of the trip&#8217;s eating adventures. The head chef is David Toutain who has an impressive lineage (Corton, NYC; Mugaritz, Spain) leading up to his first solo adventure &#8211; Agape Substance in the St. Germain district of Paris. Below is a pictorial adventure of one of the most exquisitely prepared and served meals of my life. Beautiful in appearance and taste &#8211; I left with a renewed appreciation for the sheer talent of the worlds upper echelon chefs. It won&#8217;t be long until Michelin and The Worlds 50 Best come knocking, and I am glad I beat them there&#8230;.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03669.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-724" title="DSC03669" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03669.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I loved this menu &#8211; not dishes &#8211; but just some hints of things to come. Not cheap, but we just went for it. The decision was the right one &#8211; both the food and the wines were total knockouts. I loved talking to the sommelier who offered a blind tasting &#8211; meaning he would only discuss our wines after the course was over. I have never done a wine pairing that way, but it was new and fun and enjoyable in the end.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03610.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-692" title="DSC03610" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03610.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Beet root chips.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03611.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-693" title="DSC03611" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03611.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Opening bubbly</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03612.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-694" title="DSC03612" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03612.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Biscuits</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03613.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-695" title="DSC03613" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03613.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>They made sure to tell us the serving vessel wasn&#8217;t edible. Good thing!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03614.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-696" title="DSC03614" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03614.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>David Toutain&#8217;s mastery lies in his treatment of vegetables &#8211; this was an incredible opening salvo of simple vegetables treated to perfection.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03615.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-697" title="DSC03615" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03615.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Mushroom Pizza</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03616.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-698" title="DSC03616" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03616.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>These black bread balls were filled with zucchini and mint (I think)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03618.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-699" title="DSC03618" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03618.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Frozen Basil powder and tomato &#8211; almost caprese salad-esque. Beautiful presentation and serving dishes. Another interesting note was they gave you all sorts of utensils to attack the dishes, but left it up to you which to use. Whatever you chose was replaced right away so you always had the full compliment of tools. It was one of those little things, but a great service touch.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03621.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-728" title="DSC03621" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03621.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>No utensils for this one &#8211; bottoms up. Rose and Tomato water in a real Pyrex test tube.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03624.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-700" title="DSC03624" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03624.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Bread service started now and was just left for our enjoyment. All three types of bread were fresh and delicious.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03620.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-731" title="DSC03620" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03620.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Of course they came with not one, but two types of homemade butter &#8211; one just a classic preparation (the left) and the other was infused with flecks of seaweed &#8211; great salty/briny twang and a fun accompaniment to some of the dishes to come.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03622.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-729" title="DSC03622" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03622.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Raw tuna w/ some caviar, fresh herbs, and aioli.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03626.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-701" title="DSC03626" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03626.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I love the idea of hot broth poured over a plated dish &#8211; this was one of two presented that way.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03627.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-702" title="DSC03627" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03627.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Wine pairings started now. I got the impression from the som that the presented wines would all be small producer, mostly organic, some unfiltered, and largely only locally available. Fun for the meal, but tough when you loved something but knew you&#8217;d never find it in the US.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03628.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-703" title="DSC03628" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03628.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Just a masterfully plated dish. The only beef of the night, and it was raw, with raspberry and almond, some aioli, cheese, and micro red basil (that I am sure had a much cooler name). Not sure if it tasted better than it looked or looked better than it tasted &#8211; it would be a win either way.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03629.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-704" title="DSC03629" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03629.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>We were told this was a 45 minute egg. I have had a 6 minute egg, but 45?!!? As you can imagine, it was wildly textural and the egg was just this side of warm, but cooked through. I can&#8221;t say I loved it, but it was fun to eat.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03630.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-705" title="DSC03630" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03630.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Some delectable bites of fish swimming in a tar black  sauce that reeked of the sea. Amazing balance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03632.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-706" title="DSC03632" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03632.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I guess it wouldn&#8217;t be Paris without some foie gras, right?  This was our turn. Two nicely seared chunks of foie which was swimming in a delicious potato skin broth. You might wonder how potato is different from potato skin, but this was unmistakably potato skin.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03635.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-707" title="DSC03635" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03635.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>We saw the sommelier often and he always came baring gifts.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03636.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-708" title="DSC03636" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03636.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03639.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-709" title="DSC03639" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03639.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Presented as just &#8220;carrots&#8221; &#8211; these were delicious, perfect, and stunning in presentation, with orange foam and more heirloom micro herbs.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03640.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-710" title="DSC03640" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03640.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03643.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-711" title="DSC03643" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03643.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I have had fish and corn combo a few times recently &#8211; but this was on some other level. There was the corn, corn milk, corn husk, corn hair, and a corn fritter. Super cool dish and fun to have so many preparations of one ingredient on one plate.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03645.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-712" title="DSC03645" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03645.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Our one meat dish of the night was pork. US pork is bred to be super lean and nearly fatless &#8211; this heirloom breed was streaked with fat and presented with radish, mayo, and micro greens. Changed my outlook on pork (well, US pork anyways).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03648.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-713" title="DSC03648" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03648.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>This is when I found out why there was a giant wheel of Comte cheese in the kitchen. Nicely aged and a simple and elegant transition to the dessert courses. This was served with a fortified wine which might have been the most clever pairing of the night.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03649.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-714" title="DSC03649" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03649.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03650.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-715" title="DSC03650" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03650.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Port-esque in color and taste, but quite the pair w/ the Comte</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03652.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-716" title="DSC03652" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03652.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Slow cooked egg making another appearance. I have to admit I didn&#8217;t get its inclusion in this dish, but the ice cream, pine nuts, and gooseberry (or some berry) sauce were perfect.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03656.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-717" title="DSC03656" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03656.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Another beauty from the kitchen &#8211; strawberry and basil ice cream. Somewhat safe, but what skill to prepare it this way.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03657.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-718" title="DSC03657" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03657.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Dessert ends with a bang. Fruit and gelato deliciousness. Plus, check out that spoon/spatula implement  - I need to find one of those somewhere, you could eat almost anything with it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03659.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-719" title="DSC03659" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03659.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>When the sommelier asked if we cared for anything else, something came over me. At a place like this, surely they only stock the finest of the finest, so naturally &#8220;sure, do you have any nice whiskey or bourbon&#8221; came spilling out of my mouth. The som smiled and said, &#8220;Sure, we have some Nikka, I&#8217;ll be right back.&#8221; Of course they have Nikka &#8211; not available in the US, so it was a delicious treat &#8211; and almost as cool as what was to come&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03660.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-720" title="DSC03660" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03660.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Out came my Nikka with &#8220;we warmed the glass &#8211; it tastes better that way&#8221;&#8230;of course they warmed the glass, and of course it tasted better that way. These are professionals. I was happy that I didn&#8217;t know how much it cost until after I drank it but it was reminiscent of a peety scotch from the hills overlooking the North Sea.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03662.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-721" title="DSC03662" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03662.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Coffee service</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03663.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-722" title="DSC03663" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03663.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Handmade caramels from &#8220;the Chocolate genius&#8221;. I don&#8217;t even like caramel and I loved these candies.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03668.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-723" title="DSC03668" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03668.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The real icing on the cake came when the head waiter &#8211; who had clearly sensed my enthusiasm for the meal &#8211; said, &#8220;Would you like to meet David?&#8221;. Ummm, yes please! David Toutain came over and we had a pleasant chat about Chicago, New York, Paris, dining, food, his food, and it was such a memorable end to an incredible night. I have to thank the service team from top to bottom for an unforgettable experience and David for sharing his passion in such a fun and inspired way. I can&#8217;t wait to read about this place in the coming years &#8211; I assure you it deserves all the accolades coming its way.</p>
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		<title>Chez Paul &#8211; Paris</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/chez-paul-paris/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/chez-paul-paris/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Sep 2012 02:19:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[apple]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chez]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[confit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[duck]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[escargot]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[marrow]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[paris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[paul]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[profiterole]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tart]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tatin]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.duckanddijon.com/?p=678</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Do you have friends who when they say &#8220;you guys would love this restaurant&#8221; you just know its going to be good? Well, thankfully we do, and the... <a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/chez-paul-paris/">Read More &#187;</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Do you have friends who when they say &#8220;you guys would love this restaurant&#8221; you just know its going to be good? Well, thankfully we do, and the credit for our stop at Chez Paul is wholly theirs (thanks Jake and Megan!). Coming off a wonderfully restrained tasting menu meal at Spring the night before, we were prime for a rich, delicious, gluttonous feast of Parisian proportions. And we found it at Chez Paul. Not for the faint of heart or anyone w/ a cholesterol problem, but oh what a meal of classic french dishes. One interesting hurdle was an all-French menu with a waitress not too interested in translation, but it actually became a fun game to see if we could order what we wanted.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03515.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-679" title="DSC03515" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03515.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Little Medoc to start the night &#8211; all french wine list so kinda pointing in the dark, but we hit two winners.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03516.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-680" title="DSC03516" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03516.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Escargot. Super awesome that the hard work was done for us and the snails were already out of their shell. And this garlic herb broth/butter that they were swimming in was ahhh-mazing. I had to order extra bread just to soak up some of its goodness. Plus &#8211; I need one of these dishes &#8211; what a cool serving vessel.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03517.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-681" title="DSC03517" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03517.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Goat cheese trio &#8211; not exciting in name, but sometimes surprises lurk on menus &#8211; and this was one. Each cheese was so different in texture and flavor and also came w/  some sort of extraneous enhancement. On the left was pepper-crusted. The middle wrapped in prosciutto. The right served with herbs. Quickly went from &#8220;should we really order that&#8221; to &#8220;so glad we ordered that&#8221;&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03518.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-682" title="DSC03518" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03518.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Bone Marrow. One of my favorite splurges, but rarely done well. The ironic thing is we never would have known they had this if we hadn&#8217;t seen a nearby table order it. One of those serendipitous moments that happen occasionally on vacation. Simply prepared, and served with some very earth coarse salt &#8211; I had to order more toast cause I couldn&#8217;t get enough of the marrow on my allocation of one measly piece of toast.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03520.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-683" title="DSC03520" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03520.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Vino part deux &#8211; plus I want to live in a culture where dijon mustard is just served in a dish on every table at all times. My kinda condiment.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03521.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-684" title="DSC03521" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03521.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Filet w/ Bernaise. Not my favorite or most unique, but also, not my order&#8230;.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03523.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-685" title="DSC03523" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03523.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I had the duck confit &#8211; no translation needed for that one! Think I won best order of the night (especially if you ask me), but I shared of course. Just a little bit though.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03524.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-686" title="DSC03524" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03524.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Another one of those &#8220;what did they order&#8221; with lots of inappropriate pointing at other people&#8217;s tables, but this was the result. Profiteroles&#8230;wow. The pastry cream was ever so slightly chilled and that chocolate sauce managed to be the perfect runny thickness without being hot, or even barely warm. It didn&#8217;t look that pretty for long&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03525.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-687" title="DSC03525" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03525.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Tarte Tatin &#8211; kind of a must order at least once in Paris. And a fitting end to some true Parisian gluttony &#8211; how everyone is so skinny is beyond me, but I&#8217;ll have what they&#8217;re having anytime. Great recommendation, great friends, great food, and another meal for the books!</p>
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		<title>Spring &#8211; Paris</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/spring-paris/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/spring-paris/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Sep 2012 02:13:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[menu]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mussels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[paris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tasting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[veal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wine]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.duckanddijon.com/?p=657</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When we decided on Paris for vacation, I quickly began my mission to find some great new restaurants to try in a city ripe with amazing culinary adventures.... <a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/spring-paris/">Read More &#187;</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When we decided on Paris for vacation, I quickly began my mission to find some great new restaurants to try in a city ripe with amazing culinary adventures. Spring is a new offering from (ironically) an American chef named Daniel Rose. The concept is a weekly-changing menu of market fresh ingredients presented beautifully and served professionally. It was the first night of vacation, and we would be celebrating with friends along for the trip. Due to some logistical anomalies, we&#8217;d arranged the reservation through somewhat confused channels, but all my fears were allayed upon walking up to the restaurant and greeted with &#8220;Mr. Lawler?&#8221;&#8230;ah yes, of course, they are expecting us. Ushered to our table, one look at the wine list, followed by &#8220;we&#8217;ll do the wine pairing&#8221;. Take the decision out of my hands and into the professionals &#8211; that&#8217;s the right choice 100 out of 100. &#8220;Some Champagne to start?&#8221; We are in France afterall&#8230;.&#8221;Sure!&#8221; And off we went&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03333.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-658" title="DSC03333" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03333.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Blanc de Blancs. Chardonnay.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03334.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-659" title="DSC03334" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03334.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Three small plates to start the night &#8211; first up &#8211; Fried Sardine. Great with the bubbles actually &#8211; just lightly fried &#8211; salty sea goodness.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03335.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-660" title="DSC03335" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03335.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Cheers &#8211; welcome to Paris!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03336.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-661" title="DSC03336" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03336.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Market fresh ingredients abound. Interesting to note that our waiter asked if we&#8217;d like to know what we would have on this night as he delivered these few delicious pre-treats. We quickly agreed on &#8220;no, thanks&#8221; &#8211; more fun to be surprised &#8211; I was glad my cohorts agreed. Cucumber, Cantaloupe and mint &#8211; never knew it could taste so good. Quick rant: why do we put up with such terrible produce at grocery stores? Every time I am over in Europe, I comment at least once (and more like 100x) that the produce is noticeably fresher and better tasting here. I have switched over to a local CSA delivery and its remarkable how things change in your kitchen when you start using actual fresh produce (rant over).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03337.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-662" title="DSC03337" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03337.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Eggplant with quail eggs &#8211; our third and final amuse bouche. Never would have guessed this would be a winning combination, but it was delicious nonetheless. The whole egg-with-everything trend in dining of late is one that I am not tiring of &#8211; some critics pan it, but I welcome it (for now, anyways).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03338.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-663" title="DSC03338" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03338.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Saumer Blanc. More french vino for the old palette &#8211; still happy with our wine pairing decision. You always end up with variety and a few things you&#8217;d never have otherwise.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03340.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-664" title="DSC03340" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03340.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Red mullet, artichoke, duck gelee. Another wild combo, but the best bite was one with each element on the fork. As is often the case with new combinations &#8211; trusting the chef and his/her expertise is the right decision. Restraint was possibly the sub-theme of the night, but with such fine ingredients, it was the perfect treatment.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03341.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-665" title="DSC03341" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03341.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Mr. Sommelier bearing more gifts. Thanks!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03343.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-666" title="DSC03343" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03343.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The collectively agreed upon dish of the night.  Dover sole &#8211; so delicately poached, mussels and serrano ham &#8211; with some mild citrus foam. Texture, balance, flavor all hitting high notes with this dish. Loved every last morsel of this plate.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03344.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-667" title="DSC03344" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03344.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The only Red Burgundy of the night from Volnay.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03347.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-668" title="DSC03347" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03347.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Veal and chanterelle mushrooms. Veal must have been sous vide to be cooked so perfectly through and when chantarelles are in season, they should be consumed at every possible chance. Nice light meat course following the delicate preceding seafood offering.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03352.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-669" title="DSC03352" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03352.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The first dessert offering: slow roasted figs with brown sugar short bread crumble. I totally made that dish name up, but if that wasn&#8217;t what it was, that is what it tasted like (I am sure it was fig). Roasted figs take on such an amazing sweet-savory textural composition.  Plus, it was served with&#8230;.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03354.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-670" title="DSC03354" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03354.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Greek yogurt ice cream! It tastes like you would expect and it was awesome with the figs and&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03355.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-671" title="DSC03355" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03355.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Moscato D&#8217;Asti! How did the french let this sweet bubbly <em>Italian </em>grape juice in the country? Not usually a fan of the sweetness of Moscato &#8211; it worked with this tart and tangy dessert and the bubbles were nice against the roasted flavor of the figs. Again &#8211; you are always better in the hands of the wine professionals.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03356.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-672" title="DSC03356" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03356.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Fresh berries and lime cream. Simple and delicious &#8211; the them of the night &#8211; so why not end with it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03358.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-673" title="DSC03358" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03358.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>White chocolate gelato to put a bow on it!</p>
<p>I have to say Spring and Daniel Rose are doing some special things. I loved starting off our Paris adventure with such an adventuresome meal crafted by a talented team of chefs and sommeliers and front of the house. Thanks to the whole team for giving us a great night and squeezing us in on an otherwise busy night.</p>
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		<title>Jeff&#8217;s 30th Birthday Dinner</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/jeffs-30th-birthday-dinner/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/jeffs-30th-birthday-dinner/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Sep 2012 01:56:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dinner]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[duck]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[empanadas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[party]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[steak]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wine]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.duckanddijon.com/?p=642</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; &#160;]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03202.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-643" title="DSC03202" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03202.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03209.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-645" title="DSC03209" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03209.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03211.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-646" title="DSC03211" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03211.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03219.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-648" title="DSC03219" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03219.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03220.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-649" title="DSC03220" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03220.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03223.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-650" title="DSC03223" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03223.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03228.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-651" title="DSC03228" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03228.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03237.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-652" title="DSC03237" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC03237.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
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		<title>Schwa</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/schwa/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/schwa/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jul 2012 01:52:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Chicago - Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chicago]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[schwa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.duckanddijon.com/?p=610</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When someone says they have a reservation at Schwa and asks you to join them &#8211; there is only one acceptable answer: YES.  One stipulation to our group... <a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/schwa/">Read More &#187;</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When someone says they have a reservation at Schwa and asks you to join them &#8211; there is only one acceptable answer: YES.  One stipulation to our group of 4: bring a nice bottle of wine (Schwa is byob thankfully). Done. This would be my second adventure to Schwa and I was happy there was only one duplicate dish from the first time around.</p>
<p>If you told me there was a restaurant where you would shoot off fireworks with the head chef on a busy Chicago street and watch glow-in-the-dark hoola-hooping from fellow diners before the meal ended, I&#8217;d tell you it could only happen at one place. And it did&#8230;..</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02871.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-611" title="DSC02871" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02871.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Illumination: Powerful Sauvignon Blanc with strong acidity and bold flavors for a white &#8211; my kinda wine. If you are a red wine drinker that needs a white to drink with food &#8211; you just found your bottle.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02873.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-612" title="DSC02873" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02873.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>First offering from the Schwa gang &#8211; a stuffed cherry filled with chocolate ganache swimming in a sweet cherry liquor. Interesting sweet start to a long complex meal of interesting flavors and wild concoctions.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02875.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-613" title="DSC02875" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02875.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Petri dishes are not typically serving dishes, but Schwa is not a typical restaurant. Mushroom &#8220;soup&#8221; I guess &#8211; it had a thick yogurt consistency and was dotted with basil seeds, micro cilantro and small roasted mushroom caps. Great flavor &#8211; one and only complaint &#8211; too much of it &#8211; a little odd considering I might have left the meal a little hungry.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02878.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-615" title="DSC02878" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02878.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Some sort of cheese filled pasta dish with butter, apple, celery leaf, and shaved black truffle. Super earthy, rich and sweet &#8211; lots going on &#8211; tasted like you might imagine. As I find common with multi-dimensional dishes, the best bite is one that  has a little bit of each element, and this was not exception. Kind of an odd course, but this is Schwa after all.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02880.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-616" title="DSC02880" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02880.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>This rose from Bandol was also my pick &#8211; it came across crisp and refreshing (my favorite qualities of a good rose). The guy who sold it to me told me to note the thickness or viscosity of the wine and he was right on. It had a nice texture to it &#8211; unexpected in a rose, but interesting and different.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02884.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-617" title="DSC02884" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02884.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The duplicate dish! And I was happy to see it again. Single quail egg ravioli, butter, and Parmesan. Impossibly rich, but I can&#8217;t wait to have it again next time.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02877.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-614" title="DSC02877" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02877.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>When I heard Opus One would be making an appearance, I have to admit I got a little giddy. Its a name-y kinda wine, but I&#8217;ve always heard amazing things, and was excited to get my first sip. We actually opened it first thing and decanted it for over an hour which was a good thing cause it might have been even a bit too powerful for our meal. I loved having it, and hopefully next time it will be paired with a medium rare steak.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02885.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-618" title="DSC02885" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02885.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Fruit Loops they say and I can&#8217;t disagree. On the left a doughnut and  the right a grapefruit gel. Both interesting on their own, but together, I have to say it did taste like fruit loops. This was one of those dishes where you appreciate the creativity, but I can&#8217;t quite figure out how it fit in. But again there is plenty about Schwa that doesn&#8217;t makes sense, and in the end, its part of the charm and why you want to go back to find out what they are up to next.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02888.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-619" title="DSC02888" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02888.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>One of the guys said, &#8220;this is what it would look like if you shot salmon tartare out of an air gun,&#8221; and its hard to disagree. Some grapefruit notes, herbs and truffle. Tied together a few dishes past, but I can&#8217;t say I was a huge fan. Still searching for some meat or a dish of greater substance.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02895.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-620" title="DSC02895" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02895.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Another texturally perfect one bite nugget. I couldn&#8217;t quite make out the inside &#8211; it was salty, savory, coated in peanuts, and served with micro-herbs.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02896.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-621" title="DSC02896" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02896.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Salted caramel and ice cream. Not dessert time yet&#8230;.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02899.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-622" title="DSC02899" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02899.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>This kind of sums up where we were at this point. Opus One 2004 in the books, the rose foil and the empty rose bottle, and a few Bells Oberons down the hatch. Fireworks still coming &#8211; from the kitchen and in the sky.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02900.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-623" title="DSC02900" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02900.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Likely my favorite of the night &#8211; this was presented as &#8220;cassoulet.&#8221; Meaty, earthy, tangy and great. White beans, a smooth puree and pickled cherry tomatoes accompanied the main event. This was the closest we came to standing up to the Opus One but we had moved on to the great Silver Oak and it was as good as ever.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02908.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-624" title="DSC02908" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02908.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02929.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-625" title="DSC02929" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02929.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Michael Carlson is oft present in the dining room at Schwa. At one point earlier in the night, he came out and told us that a fellow chef who he invited to dine at Schwa had brought him some mortar fireworks instead of the expected (and standard) wine, beer, or food. We told him he better shoot them off with us and he assured us after we were done, we&#8217;d go into the alley for some extra-curriculars. Well, he couldn&#8217;t wait, so at this point in the night/meal, he walked out of the kitchen and declared we were all expected outside. He was carrying the mortars. Lets go. A few angry neighbors and a group of happy (if not a bit aghast) diners later, and we had shot off two boxes of fireworks into the Chicago sky right on Ashland Ave.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02940.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-626" title="DSC02940" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02940.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Here we all were admiring the show.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02943.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-627" title="DSC02943" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02943.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Tick tick tick&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02956.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-629" title="DSC02956" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02956.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Kind of a cereal and milk riff. Sweetness definitely permeated the night and this was no exception, but Carlson&#8217;s textural mastery was on display yet again.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02968.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-630" title="DSC02968" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02968.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Stonestreet cab was the last of the night. I was concerned with three cabs we were going to be overwhelmed and in some ways we were, but this was very enjoyable and paired nicely with food. A good drinker to be sure.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02971.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-631" title="DSC02971" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02971.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Really the only thing they called dessert, but clearly not the only dessert. A dizzying array of sweet elements &#8211; ice cream, foam, chocolate drizzle, plum gel (I think), powder, and whatever else. We were served this with some drink that included Jameson and was presented as &#8220;Dr. Pepper&#8221; &#8211; fun fitting sweet end to a wild ride of a meal.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02985.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-632" title="DSC02985" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02985.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Three identifiable themes on the night: sweet, texture, and rich cheese dishes. We wrapped up sweet, so lets wrap up texture and cheese together. I guess I&#8217;d call this a burnt cheese lollipop. Kind of fun that it was served stuck in a big block of cheese (aged white cheddar maybe?) and not sure its possible to wrap up such a wild meal in any practical way at Schwa, so without further adieu: I present neon light hoola hooping&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02990.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" title="DSC02990" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC02990.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
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		<title>Ruxbin</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/ruxbin/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/ruxbin/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 07 Jun 2012 22:35:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Chicago - Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chicago]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ruxbin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.duckanddijon.com/?p=587</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How I have not been to Ruxbin before last night is inexcusable. Countless friends have recommended it, others simply don&#8217;t believe I haven&#8217;t been yet. When a friend... <a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/ruxbin/">Read More &#187;</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How I have not been to Ruxbin before last night is inexcusable. Countless friends have recommended it, others simply don&#8217;t believe I haven&#8217;t been yet. When a friend decided to organize a visit, I was on board. They don&#8217;t take reservations, so plan on showing up an hour or so before you hope to sit down, but oh is it worth it. Lucky for me, I was with a group happy to share and I took advantage. Below is our adventure&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC027081.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-589" title="DSC02708" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC027081.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The ever-changing menu beckons with an array of choices too hard to choose &#8211; how about one of each?!?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02709.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-590" title="DSC02709" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02709.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The garlic fries with chipotle aioli were first out. Simple, salty, herby and certainly garlicky, even a little bit spicy with the addicting aioli &#8211; the fries were a sign of good things to come.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02713.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-591" title="DSC02713" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02713.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I often prefer salad after my main entree, but coursing out of Ruxbin&#8217;s tiny kitchen is up to them, and out next came the apps in rapid succession. Apple and Plum salad had arugula, shaved celery, see-through-thin manchego and a crunchy almond vinaigrette. Perfectly dressed, nutty, fruity, and ever so fresh &#8211; all hallmarks of a delicious salad.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02714.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-592" title="DSC02714" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02714.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Frog and Snail &#8211; this was my second choice for an app so I was happy when it landed near my knife and fork. Lightly fried frog legs and tender snails with shaved asparagus, garlic scapes, roasted garlic, compound butter and lemon confit. All served with tiny little phyllo biscuits for soaking up the incredibly deep sauce. The only problem with this was that I didn&#8217;t have it all to myself.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02715.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-593" title="DSC02715" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02715.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Pork Belly salad. The pork belly craze has successfully taken over the dining scene and I wish I was sick of it, but who doesn&#8217;t love a perfectly roasted hunk of salty, fatty goodness and the excuse of a salad. Jicama, grapefruit and citrus vinaigrette cut the fat nicely and the homemade cornbread made it inexcusable not to soak up all the amazing flavor left on the plate.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02717.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-594" title="DSC02717" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02717.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>My contribution to the appetizer order also ended up being my favorite. Octopus served with grilled chickpeas, pickled green onions, radish, ginger scallion vinaigrette, a swipe of black soybean and the surprising red grapes. Balance was the key here and the perfectly cooked octopus was both chewy and tender. The dressing was fresh and the grapes were cleansing &#8211; a must order.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02718.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-595" title="DSC02718" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02718.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The first item on the menu was &#8220;Daily Crudo&#8221; &#8211; for us it was a salmon tartare with orange supremes and house made potato chips. Chunky salmon was dressed lightly with an herb oil and citrus and the chips served as a great vehicle for consumption.  The fresh citrus flavor and the addicting saltiness were certainly a theme at this point, but one that they seem to have perfected at Ruxbin. A daily special, but a deserving addition.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02721.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-596" title="DSC02721" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02721.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>The first of the mains was the Pork Loin. Its hard to pick a favorite, but if I had to, this would be it. Fava beans and heirloom carrots were coated in an amazing pistou &#8211; a parsley based herb sauce that was light, fresh (again, sorry), and rounded out the dish. Happily, Steph ordered this, so I got to steal the last few bites and savored all of them.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02723.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-597" title="DSC02723" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02723.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Whenever I am really excited to eat at a new place, I can&#8217;t help but peek at the menu, and my eyes were drawn to this dish, so I had to order it. Medium rare hangar steak smothered in miso butter, some rice tots and oven baked broccoli made this simply divine. The meat melted in your mouth and the salty rice tot nuggets soaked up the amazing miso butter and I was only left wanting more.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02725.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-598" title="DSC02725" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02725.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I hate ordering chicken out at restaurants cause it always seems like the boring choice. But with the popularity of confit cooking and uber-creativity of the Ruxbin kitchen, this chicken dish balanced sweet, salty, earthy, crunchy and meaty all in one dish. Shaved apples were a bit tart, the Brussel sprouts earthy and the Pain Perdu slightly sweet and another great vehicle for sopping up the impossibly good sauce.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02729.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-599" title="DSC02729" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02729.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Dessert time! There are only two options on the menu, so of course we ordered two of each. First up &#8211; chocolate pot de creme with cumin tuile, bacon cotton candy with a distinct basil flavor and crushed nuts of some sort. Texture extravaganza and a real flavor explosion. Almost indescribable, but each element starred at different points and the dish clearly composed with a deft hand.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02731.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-600" title="DSC02731" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC02731.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I almost always prefer the chocolate dessert option but this fried hand pie of flaky, buttery, fried pastry filled with warm soft pears was my favorite. Candied walnuts provided crunch and the salted caramel sauce provided just the right touch. Don&#8217;t forget the bleu cheese ice cream &#8211; a nice riff on a fruit and cheese plate, this dish was decadent and delectable and a fitting end to an incredible meal.</p>
<p>With the advantage of a small kitchen and a tiny dining room, coupled with a chef overwhelmed with creativity, the menu is constantly evolving at Ruxbin, and I can&#8217;t wait to return for the next iteration. My only advice is not to wait as long as I did and move this right to the top of your next place to visit list!</p>
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		<title>Yusho</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/yusho/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/yusho/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 01:41:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Chicago - Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chicago]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tapas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[yakatori]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[yusho]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.duckanddijon.com/?p=567</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[First it was Wicker Park, then Bucktown, and now it seems that the burgeoning food culture has infected Logan Square. The big draw is still Longman &#38; Eagle... <a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/yusho/">Read More &#187;</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>First it was Wicker Park, then Bucktown, and now it seems that the burgeoning food culture has infected Logan Square. The big draw is still Longman &amp; Eagle and now there is Telegraph, but Yusho is quickly staking its place. Steph and I went a week ago to see what they hype was all about and Yusho delivered. Everything is cooked yakatori style, which is basically just skewers and an open flame &#8211; so everything has that fire kissed flavor and the range of flavors we experienced was incredible. As seems to be standard these days, the cocktail list is short but inventive, and the beer list is full of local offerings. My only regret is I couldn&#8217;t eat anything more but the easy remedy to that is to return, which I plan on doing asap. My advice: get there before they hype takes over.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01698.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-569" title="DSC01698" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01698.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>First up was the grilled oyster with apple cider, sake and tapioco. Usually I am a fan of raw oysters and the occasional fried oyster poboy, but grilled is not something I come across often. The temperature was admittedly a little funky if you are accustomed to the ice cold raw bar oyster, but the accompaniments were interesting and the flavor delivered.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01699.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-570" title="DSC01699" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01699.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Next up was quail eggs &#8211; they seemed to have been hard boiled, dusted in coriander, and then grilled (yakatori, remember). Sides were charred kombu and broccoli rabe. I&#8217;m pretty much a fan of anything egg, so this was enjoyable. The night was full of interesting flavor pairings (but not forced), and this was no exception. I don&#8217;t think I would re-order this dish, but that doesn&#8217;t mean it wasn&#8217;t enjoyable &#8211; there is just too much else to have on the menu.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01700.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-571" title="DSC01700" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01700.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I know that looks like grilled chicken wings, and you are right, but I am telling you they were delicious and the kicker was they were boneless. It is beyond me how they managed to get both bones out of these wings, but they did, and it was succulent, juicy, salty, and all I wanted was more. Are you the type that reaches for the drumstick and not the wing when eating buffalo wings? Well I am cause one bone is easier to deal with then two. Well, this one has zero, but doesn&#8217;t&#8217; lack that cooked on the bone flavor, so squeeze that lime, sprinkle the bonito salt and order another round.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01701.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-572" title="DSC01701" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01701.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>If I had to put a first place ribbon on a dish of the night &#8211; this would be it. Steamed bun with braised short ribs, bok choy kimchi, and crushed peanuts. It also had some fresh cucumber, cilantro and pickled peppers to go with and the flavor explosion was unreal. Soft bun, meltingly tender meat, the bite of the kimchi and crunch from the peanuts were just too much to contain. Our waiter recommended we order one of these each because he has seen couples fight over just one &#8211; and he was right &#8211; we each devoured ours and considered ordering two more for dessert (we didn&#8217;t actually order them).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01703.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-573" title="DSC01703" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01703.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Pork Belly. On the verge of being overdone on menus, but its just so good, so I hope the trend doesn&#8217;t die. The Yusho version came with kimchi, black garlic and sunchoke. I have to say I love kimchi, and this was the second dish we had with it, but it was just as delicious here as before. The pickled flavor cuts the fat of the pork belly perfectly and we just slurped this dish right up.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01707.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-574" title="DSC01707" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01707.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Duck Breast. Like lamb, if there is a duck dish on the menu, its getting ordered. Sadly this was the lowpoint for me on the night. It wasn&#8217;t the duck but it was paired with hon shemeji mushrooms which were so over-the-top earthy that the duck was lost. Not that it was inedible, but if I had to pick the worst of all the goodness, this would have to be it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01710.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-575" title="DSC01710" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01710.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Continuing on the mushroom train, we ordered the maitake mushroom with an egg vinaigrette and dashi gelee. As you can see the vinaigrett consisted mostly of a soft poached egg which were were encouraged to break up and incorporate with the mushrooms and other elements of the dish. Happily there was some frise greens with the dish to lend a bit of a bite. Again, earthy, but not overly so, and texturally very interesting &#8211; the egg and gelee were borderline gelatinous but the mushrooms were crisp and the lettuce fresh and also bitey.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01712.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-576" title="DSC01712" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01712.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Sometimes they say &#8220;if some is good, then more is better.&#8221; The counterpoint is &#8220;too much is like not enough.&#8221; Well when it comes to fried chicken, I fall into the more is better category, so when I saw TWICE (well, really it said &#8220;2x&#8221; on the menu) fried chicken, my first thought was this must be better than once fried chicken, <em>right?</em> Also interesting was the condiment served alongside &#8211; I pleaded with the waiter to tell me how it was made and all I got was &#8220;its ketchup and mayonnaise, but not Heinz and Hellmans, we make it here.&#8221; Well, ok &#8211; guess I have to go back for more. Also interesting was the addition of lime zest which gave an amazing aroma off the hot fried chicken.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01713.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-577" title="DSC01713" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01713.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Cocktail time! My beer was finished so I delved into the craft cocktail list &#8211; this was the Yusho old fashioned &#8211; called the Three Arrows. Officially it was whipper snapper whiskey, barolo chinato and fenugreek bitters. It was borderline too sweet for my taste, but luckily it arrived with the salty/spicy fried, sorry <em>twice</em> fried, chicken, so it worked.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01716.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-579" title="DSC01716" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/DSC01716.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Dessert time! Three choices and we chose soft serve (although another steamed bun was a close second, seriously). The flavor of the actual soft serve was pretty straightforward, but the toppings were an explosion of flavor and left me happy to have the respite of the soft serve itself. Green cardamom, rhubarb, and ginger were the toppings &#8211; partly unexpected and partly amazing. You had to avoid a full bite of only ginger, but getting that perfect bite of all the flavors in one mouthful and the genius of the Yusho crew and their wild flavor combinations was on one final display. The fireworks went off in my mouth all night and my return trip is already in the works.</p>
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		<title>Premise</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/premise/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/premise/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Apr 2012 18:31:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Chicago - Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[andersonville]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chicago]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[premise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[restaurant]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.duckanddijon.com/?p=540</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Premise is the newest edition to the blossoming dining scene in Andersonville. Steph and I recently visited on the third day of business with our friend Manuel &#8211;... <a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/premise/">Read More &#187;</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Premise is the newest edition to the blossoming dining scene in Andersonville. Steph and I recently visited on the third day of business with our friend Manuel &#8211; a local and regular in the Andersonville dining scene. Brian Runge left Graham Elliot, where he was Chef de Cuisine, in his first adventure as head chef with the In Fine Spirits crew who still own the space but repurposed it as Premise. We sat through a few service hiccups, but ones that were attributable to it being one of the first full dinner services. All in all the food was delicious, though we all agreed that each dish got a little lost in technique and forgot about taste. That&#8217;s not to say it wasn&#8217;t delicious, but so much attention is paid to sous-vide this and foam that, that my overall enjoyment of each dish was more in enjoying the skill required to produce the dish than the dish itself. I also found the price point to be a bit aggressive to survive the early on rush and excitement of a Graham Elliot graduate in Andersonville.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01558.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-542" title="DSC01558" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01558.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Amuse Bouche</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01559.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-543" title="DSC01559" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01559.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Bread service came with a deliciously fresh baked roll with a surprising accompaniment of wasabi lime butter</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01557.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-541" title="DSC01557" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01557.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>This was the shrimp and roasted coconut app. Good flavors but a start to the powders and foams that would dominate the night.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01562.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-545" title="DSC01562" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01562.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Agnolotti with country ham and garden vegetables.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01563.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-546" title="DSC01563" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01563.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>This was an extra dish the kitchen sent out because of some early meal mishaps &#8211; compressed melon and cucumber with creme fresh. Good textures and I enjoyed the freshness of the taste &#8211; clean on the palate.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01564.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-547" title="DSC01564" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01564.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Smoked sturgeon with hard and soft cooked quail eggs, served with haricot verts, citrus wedges, and fried potatoes. No complaints here &#8211; the fish was firm, the veggies crisp, and there was a nice salt component with the chips (lets call them what they were).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01567.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-548" title="DSC01567" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01567.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Never met a bottle of Chateaneuf-du-Pape that I didn&#8217;t like. The knowledgable sommelier helped with this choice and it was a good one &#8211; not too earthy for a C-d-P but just full enough to help out the meat to come.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01568.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-549" title="DSC01568" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01568.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>I am kind of over the wagyu craze, but this was a nicely composed dish of beef and mushrooms. Probably not worth the $30 it cost though. I appreciate the sous-vide technique and you can see the meat is consistently medium rare throughout but the temperature of the meat suffered from the technique &#8211; a little cold for my liking in a &#8220;steak&#8221; dish.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01569.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-550" title="DSC01569" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01569.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>This was the smoked salmon course &#8211; here I didn&#8217;t mind the cool medium rare fish and the salmon roe was a nice hat tip to the fish itself and also lent a great salt component.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01570.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-551" title="DSC01570" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01570.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>You may know, or you will if you read this blog long enough, that if there is lamb on the menu, it is getting ordered. I felt very similar about this dish as I did to the wagyu &#8211; it was good in flavor but dominated by technique &#8211; its a delicate balance between weird combinations, technique and flavor and this dish didn&#8217;t really come together for me.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01571.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-552" title="DSC01571" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01571.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Continuing on the weird combo theme, this was our first dessert &#8211; a carrot cake with honeycomb and pea gelato. If I could have stopped with honeycomb, this dish would have been better &#8211; the pea gelato seemed like a massive misstep &#8211; though the texture and cold contrast to the warm moist cake and sweet honeycomb was good, I didn&#8217;t get the pea flavor? How about just doing a good vanilla bean, or a less earthy savory flavor if you must.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01575.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-553" title="DSC01575" src="http://www.duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01575.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Gotta do a chocolate dessert, right? Stunning in presentation with a nicely spiced chocolate swipe, the yellowy dollops were flavored of chorizo &#8211; interesting I guess, and certainly something different. All in all a nice solid end to a meal full of interesting flavors.</p>
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		<title>RPM Italian</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/rpm/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/rpm/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Apr 2012 02:35:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Chicago - Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chicago]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[italian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[RPM]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://duckanddijon.com/test/?p=431</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Shredded Brussel Sprouts w/ Avocado Truffled Garlic Bread Prime Beef Meatballs Gnocchi al Forno w/ Gorgonzola and Sage Lobster Ravioli Short Rib Pappardelle with Pecorino and Rosemary Truffled... <a href="http://www.duckanddijon.com/rpm/">Read More &#187;</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01186.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-433" title="DSC01186" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01186.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Shredded Brussel Sprouts w/ Avocado</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01187.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-434" title="DSC01187" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01187.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Truffled Garlic Bread</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01190.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-436" title="DSC01190" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01190.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Prime Beef Meatballs</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01192.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-438" title="DSC01192" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01192.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Gnocchi al Forno w/ Gorgonzola and Sage</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01194.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-439" title="DSC01194" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01194.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Lobster Ravioli</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01197.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-440" title="DSC01197" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01197.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Short Rib Pappardelle with Pecorino and Rosemary</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01198.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-441" title="DSC01198" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01198.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Truffled Farfalle with Teleggio and Beef Sugo</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01199.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-442" title="DSC01199" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01199.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Cacio e Pepe</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01201.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-443" title="DSC01201" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01201.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Gelato (L-R): Lemon, Coconut, Pistachio, Vanilla Bean</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01202.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-444" title="DSC01202" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01202.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
<p>Canoli</p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01204.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-445" title="DSC01204" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01204.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
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		<title>Linguine w/ Shrimp, Peppers and Arugula</title>
		<link>http://www.duckanddijon.com/linguine-w-shrimp-peppers-and-arugula/</link>
		<comments>http://www.duckanddijon.com/linguine-w-shrimp-peppers-and-arugula/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Apr 2012 03:12:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Patrick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pasta & Pizza]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[arugula]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bell]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[linguine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pasta]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pepper]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pesto]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[shrimp]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[slider]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01145.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-482" title="DSC01145" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01145.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a> </p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01155.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-484" title="DSC01155" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01155.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a> </p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01158.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-485" title="DSC01158" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01158.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a> </p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01171.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-487" title="DSC01171" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01171.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a> </p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01172.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-488" title="DSC01172" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01172.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a> </p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01174.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-489" title="DSC01174" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01174.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a> </p>
<p><a href="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01178.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-490" title="DSC01178" src="http://duckanddijon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSC01178.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="412" /></a></p>
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