Heritage, O Heritage... I think I'm in love.
Twice now I have been to this jewel of a restaurant, and I'm already planning my next visit. And this is in a span of just a few weeks. Rarely am I compelled to go to the same restaurant again and again in such a short time. Yes, it's that good.
Where do I begin... The atmosphere is cool, sexy, and intellectual... and no, it's not just because of the books on the walls. The bartenders are sharply dressed in vests and dress shirts... A pinch of retro in the look, yet still modern, and o so sophisticated. The menu is crafted with artistry. The servers are friendly, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. I like (Borat voice).
Drinks: I've tried two of their signature cocktails so far: the Amigo Amaro and the Gin Wiccan. Both exciting, balanced, and worth nursing... Too delicious to guzzle.
Food: My oh my, the food. Let me start by saying that while everything sounds delicious on the menu, prepare to have your expectations exceeded. Know now that my descriptions will not do the dishes justice. I've tried quite a few things on the menu, so I'll just go through them one by one. If I could I would go on and on and on, so I will try to keep it concise so you can hurry up and book a table. :)
The Shrimp Crackers with Korean BBQ spice are addictive. Spicy, super crunch, light as air, a perfect munchie to accompany your cocktail.
The Salmon Belly Sashimi was just outstanding. The flavor of ginger was delicately powerful without being overwhelming (if that's even possible), and the beer sorbet was an unexpected treat of magnificent proportions... Cooling, exciting, and so special.
The Pea Soup? UNBELIEVABLE. The flavor of pea was boldly fresh, as if made with peas straight from the garden. And the surprise of the crispy ham hock awaiting at the bottom of the bowl was just wonderful. So vibrant.
The Warm Spring Asparagus with Poached Organic Egg was light and lovely. In eating it, I felt like it was giving me a gentle hug and saying, "Spring is here, aren't you glad?"
The Bourbon Barrel Smoked Pork Belly was just fabulous. Smooth flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, and spice... perfectly cooked, gorgeously tender pork belly... divine and thoughtful accompaniments.
The Burger was super juicy and comforting (especially with the addition of bacon). Perfect portion size.
The Local Mahi was delicate and, again, perfectly cooked. A bright and complex dish, with an array of different textures to excite the tastebuds.
Tart, sweet, with a little crunch, the Meyer Lemon Parfait was like the best deconstructed lemon meringue pie you could ever try. As I delved deeper into the parfait, I was taken away into pleasureland with each spoonful.
And last but not least, the Vanilla Bean "Cheesecake". It is AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING. Total mouth orgasm sort of amazing. Fight with your boyfriend over the last bite sort of amazing. Go to the restaurant just for the cheesecake sort of amazing. It's heavenly.
I think I have made clear that I love Heritage. ;) I love that everything is done with a perfect balance of love, passion, professionalism, and attention to detail. I love that many of the ingredients are local and sustainable. I love the fact that the menu is extremely reasonable given the quality of food. I love that the service is friendly without being too familiar. And I love that its food is so f@#!ing delicious. In short, if you haven't been to Heritage yet, go. As soon as possible. Your culinary adventure awaits! read more