What a terrific restaurant! Both the food and service were impeccable during our visit last night.
We arrived early for our 7:30pm reservation and our table was not yet ready, so we decided to go to the bar for martinis. We were escorted there by a friendly man who appeared to be a manager, who pulled out chairs for us, and then asked if we'd like him to hang up our coats. He returned a moment later with a numbered card to retrieve our coats after dinner. The bartender was kind and jovial and made great martinis. (Please note that the martinis here are rather large--after one, I felt as though I had had two!) We were asked if we wanted to order food at the bar, but we declined, given that we were waiting for a table. We then were provided with the list of specials and the menu to peruse while we waited. The host approached us to apologize that our table still was not ready, as the couple seated there were enjoying after dinner drinks and chatting. Frankly, we hadn't even noticed that it was past our reservation time, but it was so great of them to acknowledge it. A few minutes later, I accidentally dropped my phone on the floor. It was immediately picked up by one of their staff who actually wiped it down to clean it for me. Now that's service!
When we were seated, our server was incredibly kind, not to mention knowledgeable about the menu, being able to describe the specials and menu items quite clearly and vividly. It is because of her description that we ordered the charred octopus as a starter. It was absolutely delicious! It was was a perfect balance of flavor and texture. As an aside, the persons seated next to us ordered the escargot. We know this because we asked them what they had ordered when a dish topped with beautiful, flaky puffed pastry arrived at their table. They said it was "divine." Next visit, that will be the first thing we order, for sure.
For his entree, James ordered the trout special which was accompanied by risotto and some sort of vegetable (I forget). He loved it! In fact, he said that it is the best trout he's ever had. He also raved about the risotto. Now, I make risotto quite regularly and quite well, so I'm always skeptical of risotto served in restaurants, and my skepticism usually is warranted. I must say after tasting it that that this risotto is even better than mine! I was quite impressed.
The filet mignon was my entree. It was served with the most delicate broccolini, as well as spring carrots. Not only was it cooked to the perfect medium-rare temperature that was requested, but it was seasoned appropriately. (I know that most people like to have some sort of starch with their meal, but I am not really a fan. So, for me, this was perfect; however, I can understand how some diners might miss some5ing like potatoes or rice.) I must say that this steak is among the best I've ever had, and definitely a must-have for any carnivore who visits Downtown 140. And the portions of both our meals were absolutely the perfect amount of food, as well as appropriately priced.
The only "negative" about our meal isn't really a negative at all. We ordered the Brussels sprouts as an accompaniment to our entrees. The description provided by our server made them sound amazing--an interesting preparation that includes marcona almonds and feta cheese, all topped with small slices of grapefruit. Simply put, we were not fans of the dish. I love feta cheese, but it overpowered the dish--had it been removed, or at least limited a bit, the dish would've been better. But this is merely a personal preference.
Though James has been here multiple times over the years, this was my first visit. So, a note about the space and decor is warranted. It's rather small, which means that it can be rather loud. But the energy is great, so I didn't mind having to project my voice a little. The style of the walls and furnishings was chic but not "trying too hard." And I absolutely love the lighting! It was gentle and created a sense of intimacy, and it included some low lamps spaced along the wall. Again, loved it! What is unclear to me, though, is how a person in a wheelchair would navigate entering the restaurant, given the stairs that must be traversed. Perhaps they have an elevator hidden somewhere, or some hulking brute who can carry one up/down the steps? If you have a physical challenge, definitely ring them ahead of time to verify and/or arrange entry.
In sum, our experience at Downtown 140 was terrific, and we definitely will return in the future. This will be the place we now come for special occasions and celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries. Cheers! read more