While my overall experience at Braise was very good, but I wasn't completely blown away. Perhaps, my expectations were way too high given all the rave reviews. Plus, it's also probably unfair for me to compare it to other "farm-to-table" type concepts I've dined at around the country. Also, I'm probably just being more critical and a stubborn ass with awarding five star ratings these days.
First off, I don't need to talk about how awesome the whole concept of the main organization is. Kudos to Braise for being an amazing community partner.
I was able to easily get a table for three on a recent Saturday night. Reservations are a snap through RezBook. Best of all, we were seated immediately once we arrived. The main dining room consists of a few tables for two and three larger communal tables. The space is warm, well appointed, and well lit. There's a pseudo rustic feel to the place, which I really liked. Now on to the main event......
For appetizers, my party ordered the scallion crackers topped with chorizo, Clock Shadow horseradish quark, caramelized onions and a chimichurri sauce. Wow, this thing was an appetizer absolutely bursting with flavor and a great contrast of flavors from creamy to salty/savory to slight citrus. We also ordered the charcuterie plate. All I need to say are Bolzano and Underground....the producers speak for themselves!
Entree wise, I ordered the braised lamb and sausage with carrots, potatoes, and feta. Fennel was the theme here, and provided the dish with a strong flavor. Overall, I was very pleased with the dish. My sister and mom ordered the trout and the crispy pork shoulder, respectively. Both of them were satisfied with their dishes. The crispy pork shoulder was definitely a unique dish. They were prepared almost like croquettes - pork shoulder balls, battered with panko crumbs and fried. The pork was good, but the accompaniments are what made the dish, particularly the pickled rutabaga! That alone makes the dish worth ordering.
The highlight of the night were the desserts, a spiced cake and a quince tart to be exact. I cannot say exactly the spices used for the cake, but there was a hint of cardamom. I'm a huge fan of quince, but I rarely see it as an ingredient on dessert menus here. Glad that Braise was able to integrate one of my favorite fruit into their menu.
As for service, it was adequate. Our server was very good. I was irked that the food runner (may have been a manager) placed the wrong entree plates in front of each of us at the table. In the thick of things, it's minor; however, the details are the things that distinguish a four from a five star worthy establishment. I know if that happened at a Spago or Le Bernardin, the server would be reprimanded!
Braise is definitely a nice option to have in an increasingly competitive market in Walker's Point. Although I don't see myself eating here on a regular basis because of other great options, I will definitely be back. If anything, I'll head back for dessert and some Anodyne coffee! read more