Im used to using f-words when talking about ZenKitchen: fabulous, fantastic, filling, favorite. But the new Zen requires an o-word. Outstanding. The soft-launch was very impressive, tonights dinner was superlative. I feel badly that these are phone shots in low-light, which dont do the new dishes any justice; In particular, the seitan was juicier than the launch version, ampler; it hit that moment when the texture and richesse of the breading, the juiciness of the seitan and its chew, its umami flavor, and the sweet and savoury elements of its blueberry teriyaki all work together to produce a dish where theres simply nothing out of place, you get to forget that youre eating, and the experience is a complete and effortless pleasure. I also loved the pilaf, caulifower and green beans. So, while I enjoyed all of the new main dishes at the launch, it will be hard to pry me away from this one. The Thai Curry was beautifully presented, as were the Royal Zenburger and dinner-sized Caesar. Everyone was very happy with his or her dish. Too full for dessert. Which was a great sadness for me. Professor Loan also was kind enough to go through the wine list with us a bit, recommend a wine (the Quintus from Karlo Estates), and give us some really interesting background on the grapes involved (since the wine is a blend of different types of grapes). It was an adroit choice, and one that reminded me that as much as I like to drink wine, I still know so little about it..The wine was straightforward and delightful. Very balanced. Its a beautiful wine, just to look at in the glass. A lot of very rich and nuanced flavor -- a journey from start to finish with each turn a very pleasant one. Just a hint of acidity, and very, very easy to drink! Im always very impressed with the service at Zen Kitchen and tonight was no exception. Outstanding.
Posted on: Fri, 08 Aug 2014 03:35:11 +0000
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