Grazing with the Fishes Revisited at 'Manhattan Ocean Club' in New York
A previous 'Grazing' review about this restaurant can be found at this reference:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/message?forumid=131774&messageid=1082734304
The last visit drew good food reviews but indifferent-to-poor scores ala "flailing toenail" for the surly waiter. How would this restaurant stand up to another anonymous test?
Samuel Adams Boston Lager
Pretty good US beer.
Groote Post 2003 Chenin Blanc, South Africa.
Amazing easy drinking dry white wine that was completely off my radar before. Well deserving of its International Wine Awards Silver Medal and good value at its price-point.
Glorioso Rioja 1999, Bodegas Palacio, Spain.
Unwooded, red wine which allows drinking while young. Unhampered by mouth-puckering tannins of wooded Rioja, it allowed delicate strawberry and prune aromas to meld with even fish dishes.
Appetizer: Scrambled egg and caviar with toast soldiers.
A great start already as I pushed my cholesterol count up again. What is it about salty popping fish roe and scrambled eggs that hits the tastebuds? There may have even been a hint of truffle oil. Yummy.
Of course, the ultimate dish would be scrambled quails eggs and oscietra caviar, accompanied by shavings of Italian white truffle and delicate Norwegian smoked salmon. But what can you expect for 5 bucks?
Starter: Cajun spiced crusted seared tuna on avocado and root vegetable fritters.
Hot and spicy chili, cumin and garlic notes set off perfectly seared fresh fish.
MOC House Special: Crabcakes on a bed of fried onion, with tomato puree sauce.
The side dishes of mushrooms, spinach and edamame soybeans allowed respite from the big flavours from this signature course.
I could not manage dessert but consoled myself with a shot of anejo tequila!
As usual, I end with another Picasso ceramic piece that lines the walls.
CONCLUSION REVISITED
Executive Chef Kosetsu scores again for the food.
I noticed the surly waiter from our previous visit; he was still skulking around at another table - no change there. This time, our wait-staff were competent and courteous, even with out large party of diners.
Overall, a '2-thumbs up' Recommendation as long as you get the nice waiters!
Photos and Text Copyright Melvyn Teillol-Foo, 2005.
