Thursday, September 23, 2010

Stone Soup Cottage Redux

We obviously can't stay away from this charming restaurant, plus we wanted to introduce some of our friends to this exciting establishment.

Tonight's menu did not disappoint

Our amuse bouche ( or a little taste present from the chef ) was a freshly picked squash blossom, stuffed with a blue cheese mousse, deep fried and served with a garlicky rouille (garlic, olive oil aioli ) that was absolutely delicious.  The wine served with it was fabulous; Aveleda Vino Verde from Portugal.  It was light with some tiny bubbles like Prosecco, and very little alcohol content that went beautifully with that squash blossom gem.

The first course was a Rabbit Consomme' with Smoked Rabbit Confit ( which means that the rabbit is slowly smoked and then poached gently in its own fat-but don't worry, it's not a bit fatty or oily, it's delicious)

This was followed by Butternut Squash Souffle' with Heirloom Micro-Greens and Hot Pancetta Vinaigrette. It was a masterpiece: fluffy, creamy and savory all at once with a crisp parmesan tuille stuck in the top of the souffle'.  A real winner.



Next came Grilled Alaskan Coho Salmon with a Ginger Buerre Blanc and Fresh English Peas.  Granted there's no salmon streams anywhere near St Louis, and this is not pea season, but the combination was wonderful none the less.  Living in the center of the country we have to be aware that locovare can only take us so far.

Dessert was an Apple Tarte Tatin with Vanilla Bean Gelato.  It came to the table pipping hot with the caramelized sugar just starting to set, then the vanilla gelato was spooned on top to cool the tart just enough so the sugar wouldn't burn our mouths.

Our friends were delighted with the meal, the ambiance and the McConnells, and you will be too. 
This place is truly special.

The four course Tasting Menu is $49.95, the six course is $69.95.

The menu changes bi-weekly.  Go to their website and make reservations.  You won't be sorry.

http://www.stonesoupcottage.com/.

1 comment: