And what a pleasant surprise it turned out to be.

Located just off the main drag, Fat Duck Tavern’s exterior feels more medical office than modern bistro. But step inside and that changes quickly. The interior is warm and quietly stylish—sunlight filters through wide windows and lands gently on dark wood floors, cozy two-tops, and a few subtle duck-themed design flourishes that avoid veering into kitsch. There’s a comfort here, as if the space knows it doesn’t need to try too hard.

The tavern, still awaiting its liquor license at the time of our visit, offers mocktails or a welcoming BYOB policy. We arrived with a bottle of Montepulciano brought home from Italy, and the staff graciously provided glasses—tall, elegant stems that caught the light just right.

We began with the Flatbread ($14), a crisply baked canvas topped with brie, prosciutto, spiced fig jam, and a small scatter of arugula. The flavors were in perfect balance—the jam providing a mellow sweetness, the brie melting into a luxurious base, and the prosciutto offering a satisfying salinity. The portion wasn’t large, but it was well-judged for a starter. Though it took a bit longer to arrive than expected, the staff checked in, and the atmosphere (and wine) kept impatience at bay.

For mains, we split the Steak Frites ($36) and the Pork Tenderloin ($27).

The steak—a well-sized, beautifully seared New York strip—was cooked to a faultless medium rare and served with a cool horseradish cream that was just assertive enough. The parmesan-dusted fries were, frankly, show-stealers. Crisp on the outside, soft within, and seasoned to perfection—each one felt like it had been fussed over, which is a strange thing to say about a fry but also the only right thing.

The pork tenderloin was unexpectedly generous, nearly stretching across the plate. Paired with an apple cider glaze that walked the line between sweet and savory, the dish sat atop a silky celery root purée. Grilled asparagus added char and crunch, rounding out a dish that was comforting but not clumsy, elevated but not precious.

If there was a weak spot, it was the dessert menu—or, rather, the lack thereof. Only one option: Banana Foster Bread Pudding ($10). We passed, not for lack of curiosity, but because it simply wasn’t calling to us. A future visit may tempt us back for it—or, hopefully, a few new additions.

There’s something lovely about finding a place that feels like it belongs—not in some grand culinary revolution, but simply in a town. Fat Duck Tavern isn’t flashy, and that’s the point. It’s thoughtful, confident, and quietly ambitious, with a kitchen that seems to care a great deal about flavor and balance. Once the cocktail program gets rolling, I suspect the bar will become a destination of its own.

For now, it’s the kind of place you want to return to. The kind you root for. And the kind, even after just one week of service, that already feels like a local favorite in the making.

Fat Duck Tavern is off to an impressive start, with thoughtful, well-executed dishes and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that already feels like a local favorite. One reason it’s not a higher rating—for now—is the pending liquor license. While the BYOB policy worked perfectly for our visit, the absence of a cocktail program leaves one piece of the experience still to come. Additionally, the single-item dessert menu—though possibly delightful—felt a bit limiting and left us wishing for a few more sweet options to round out the meal. Based on the care and quality already evident in the kitchen, I’m confident that once these elements are in place, this rating will only go up.

Fat Duck Tavern can be found at 44 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443 | Reservations on OpenTable

Chili has a way of bringing people together. It’s the kind of dish that feels right in the center of a table surrounded by laughter, stories, and clinking bowls. Maybe it’s because chili is more than the sum of its parts. Each ingredient, from the tender ground beef to the perfectly spiced broth, works in harmony to create something that’s as comforting as it is delicious. And then there’s the cornbread—a golden companion to the rich, bold flavors of the chili, its subtle sweetness perfectly balancing every bite.

For many families, chili is tied to tradition. It might be the dish that mom perfected, the one dad claimed he made better, or the recipe handed down from a grandparent who knew just the right amount of kick to add. It’s what you make when everyone’s home and hungry, when you need something that sticks to the ribs and warms the heart. It’s the meal that nourishes not just the body but the spirit—an invitation to linger at the table a little longer.

Whether it’s served in steaming bowls with a sprinkle of cheese and dollop of sour cream, or spooned over a baked potato or tortilla chips for a game-day twist, chili is always more than just dinner. It’s a reminder of what really matters: good food, great company, and the moments that turn into memories. And on those chilly evenings when the house smells like a cozy hug, it’s hard not to feel like you’re right where you’re supposed to be.

What makes these so special? First, there’s the transformation of simple asparagus into something truly indulgent. Wrapping each bundle in bacon creates an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake—a mouthwatering combination of smoky, savory bacon and the earthy freshness of the asparagus. The sprinkle of garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before baking brightens the dish with a touch of citrus.

When they emerge from the oven, the bacon is perfectly crisp, the asparagus tender, and the flavors are out of this world. The slight char on the tips of the spears contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green, making these bundles look as good as they taste.

On the plate, they’re as versatile as they are delicious—elevating roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or even a prime rib roast. And let’s not forget how effortless they are to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you have a side dish that’s both visually stunning and packed with incredible flavor.

For us, bacon-wrapped asparagus isn’t just food; it’s a holiday memory in the making. It’s the dish that everyone reaches for, the one people ask for seconds (and thirds) of, and the one that always earns a place of honor on our table.

Lunch at The Botanical Rooms

Our lunch at The Botanical Rooms was nothing short of extraordinary. With a group of six, we opted for the three-course lunch menu, priced at £45 (about USD $57) per person, and were treated to a culinary journey that was both delightful and memorable.

First Course

I started with the Buffalo Mozzarella, Wild Garlic, and Pink Lady Apple. The mozzarella was impossibly creamy, the wild garlic pesto imparted a burst of vibrant, verdant flavor, and the crisp Pink Lady apples added a refreshing crunch. Each bite was a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, evoking the essence of springtime in every mouthful. It was a dish that danced on the palate, leaving me eager for the courses to come.

My wife enjoyed the Wye Valley Asparagus with Smoked Cod’s Roe and Cherry Bell Radish. The asparagus was perfectly crisp, tender, and infused with a subtle smokiness from the cod’s roe. The radish slices were so thin they were almost translucent, adding a delightful peppery bite that complemented the creamy cod’s roe. It was a beautifully balanced dish that highlighted the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the kitchen.

Mains

For the main course, I chose the Somerset Beef with Beetroot and Roasted Shallot. The beef was sliced with precision and cooked to an ideal medium-rare, leaning towards rare, which I appreciated immensely. The texture was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the sauce was a masterclass in depth and complexity, with rich, umami notes that elevated the dish to sublime heights. The roasted shallot provided a caramelized sweetness, while the wilted greens offered a slightly bitter counterpoint that balanced the richness of the beef. It was a dish that lingered in my memory long after the plate was cleared.

My wife had the Story Pig Pork with Pressed Potato, Spring Cabbage, and Burnt Apple. This dish was a visual and culinary gem, featuring both succulent pork belly and tender pork tenderloin. The pressed potato was crisp on the outside and wonderfully creamy within, providing a perfect textural contrast. The spring cabbage added a delightful crunch, and the burnt apple puree, artfully dotted on the plate, delivered a touch of sweetness that brought the whole dish together in harmonious balance. Every bite was a revelation, showcasing the chef’s ability to transform humble ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Desserts

To finish, I had the 70% Single Origin Chocolate Tart. The portion was just right, offering a satisfying conclusion without overwhelming the senses. The tart was exquisitely balanced, with the deep, rich notes of dark chocolate tempered by the subtle sweetness of Hollis Mead Creme Fraiche. Each delicate mouthful was a symphony of flavors that danced on the palate, providing the perfect end to an otherwise perfect meal.

My wife enjoyed the same dessert, while our guests indulged in equally divine options. The Strawberry, Rhubarb, and Babylonstoren Olive Olive Shortbread was a stunning composition of tart and sweet flavors, and the Mascarpone Parfait with Salted Caramel, Golden Raisins, and Poached Apple was a highlight, each bite bursting with luscious, well-balanced flavors.

We paired our meal with a lovely Vignamaggio – Gherardino Riserva (2018), which beautifully complemented the entire dining experience, its rich and robust notes enhancing each dish perfectly.

Service and Ambiance

The level of service at The Botanical Rooms was spectacular. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and added to the overall exceptional experience. The decor of the restaurant was equally stunning, with an elegant and sophisticated ambiance that made our lunch truly special.

Final Thoughts

Our lunch at The Botanical Rooms at The Newt in Somerset was an extraordinary culinary experience. The stunning property, impeccable service, and exquisite dishes made for an unforgettable meal. Beyond the incredible food, The Newt itself is a marvel. The spectacular gardens, the meticulous attention to detail in both the architecture and landscaping, and the serene, almost surreal atmosphere create a setting that feels like a dream. It’s a place where beauty and fun intertwine, offering not just a meal, but a whole experience that rejuvenates the spirit and delights the senses. We left The Newt not only sated but also inspired by its charm and elegance. It is truly a destination worth visiting, promising an enchanting escape into nature and culinary excellence.

I’m giving our lunch at The Botanical Rooms at The Newt in Somerset a five star rating as it was a truly exceptional experience in every aspect. From the stunning, meticulously maintained property to the impeccable service and the exquisite, thoughtfully prepared dishes, every detail was perfect. The harmonious flavors, beautiful presentation, and the enchanting ambiance made our meal unforgettable. The Newt combines natural beauty with culinary excellence, creating an idyllic escape that left us thoroughly impressed and longing to return.

The Newt in Somerset can be found at A359, Hadspen, Castle Cary BA7 7NG, United Kingdom

During a recent dinner with cherished friends, Olea presented an opportunity to explore its culinary offerings, starting with a selection of cocktails. The Smoked Manhattans ($14 each) were particularly noteworthy, offering a nuanced take on the classic with a hint of smokiness that complemented, rather than overwhelmed, the blend of Rye Whiskey, Lustau Vermut Rojo, and spiced cherry bitters.

The appetizers set a promising tone for the meal. The Tuna Tartare ($18) was a lovely mix of yellowfin tuna, tomato, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame seeds, topped with aioli and served with crispy wonton, offering a beautiful interplay of textures and umami flavors. The Patatas Fingerling ($9) and Pimientos de Padrón (Shishito Peppers, $9) were executed with care, the former boasting an ever so slightly crispy exterior and a pillowy soft interior, enhanced by truffle aioli and crispy rosemary, while the latter offered a pleasing balance of delicate heat and salt.

For the main courses, the Branzino ($33) was well-received by my dining companion, its preparation highlighting the fish’s natural flavors. The Atlantic Salmon ($32), though just slightly overcooked, was presented with creativity, featuring an unexpected sweet potato base and garnished with carrots, soybeans, poppy seeds, and a lemon confit vinaigrette, creating a colorful and inviting dish. My Duck Leg Confit ($32) was a highlight, with its perfectly crispy skin and tender meat, complemented by a vibrant array of accompaniments like parsnip purée, zucchini, and green apple, which added depth, sweetness, and texture to the dish.

Despite the richness of the mains, dessert was a chapter of the meal that could not be skipped. The Torrija ($13) was an unforgettable blend of caramelized brioche, Tahitian vanilla infused milk, and honey-rosemary ice cream, which I will be lusting after for weeks to come! The Modern Lemon Pie ($13), with its smooth, silky texture and accompanying pineapple ice cream, was a refreshing nod to the Mediterranean’s sunny climes – much needed on a cold New England night.

The service at Olea was friendly, attentive, and unobtrusive, contributing to a pleasant dining atmosphere. The restaurant’s ambiance, characterized by its understated elegance, complemented the overall experience. Beyond the culinary delights, what truly made the evening unforgettable was the company. Sharing this dining experience with two of our favorite people added an immeasurable joy to the evening. The laughter, conversations, and shared moments of culinary discovery elevated the experience from a simple dinner to a lovely memory. In true Spanish fashion, it was a reminder that while food can be artfully prepared and beautifully presented, it is the people we share it with that imbue a meal with special meaning.

In reflection, Olea earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars. The dining experience was enjoyable, with several dishes standing out for their thoughtful preparation and flavor profiles. While the meal was not without its minor flaws, such as the slightly overcooked salmon, the strengths of the menu, particularly in the appetizers and desserts, made for a satisfying visit. A more diverse wine selection by the glass could enhance future dining experiences. Olea remains a commendable choice for those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean in New Haven, offering a blend of comfort and culinary exploration that is worth experiencing. I will happily return to Olea.

Olea can be found at 39 High Street, New Haven, CT | 203 780 8925

Our party of three were the pioneers of the day, seated at the stroke of opening time, 11:30 am. This early arrival, intended to beat the brunch rush, instead cast an awkward pall over the start of our meal, making us the sole focus in an uncomfortably quiet dining room.

The drink offerings presented a mixed bag. Mimosas, an obvious brunch staple, were competently executed but failed to distinguish themselves from the myriad versions available citywide. More intriguing was the non-alcoholic Coffee Mockhattan ($14), a concoction of Lyre’s American Malt, house cold brew concentrate, and maple. While the blend was flavorful, its diminutive size left us wanting more.

Anticipation built around the bread service ($12), a menu-highlighted assortment promising gruyere popovers, jalapeño corn bread, sweet and spiced butter, radishes, and grapes. Reality pared this down to merely gruyere popovers, which, while delightful in theory, arrived cold and lacked freshness. The accompanying butter, described with a hint of the exotic, turned out to be disappointingly pedestrian, akin to something one might pick up from a grocery store, and served almost frozen with a perfunctory dusting of paprika.

The main course further entrenched our disappointment. The 8oz DB Dry Aged Burger with Cheese ($25), described enticingly with LTO, fries, shishitos, B1 sauce, on a toasted English muffin, arrived as a shadow of its menu depiction. Lacking seasoning and sandwiched in an unremarkable English muffin (toasting status questionable), the burger was forgettable, saved only by the side of delicious fries.

A similar fate befell the DB Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich ($9), aimed at those with lighter appetites. It too failed to impress, presenting a slice of undercooked bacon and adequate scrambled eggs in a forgettable ensemble.

Having been a fervent admirer of the erstwhile David Burke Kitchen in SoHo, my expectations were high for this new venture. Regrettably, Park Avenue Kitchen fell short of these hopes in almost every regard, marking a significant departure from the cherished memories of its predecessor.

Service, or the lack thereof, added insult to injury. The lack of warmth and the apparent inconvenience our presence posed to our waiter only compounded the culinary shortcomings, leaving a lingering aftertaste of disappointment.

With a heavy heart, I rate Park Avenue Kitchen by David Burke two stars out of five. Despite the chef’s illustrious background and the restaurant’s potential, our experience was marred by mediocrity and missed opportunities. It’s a poignant reminder that not all ventures by celebrated chefs guarantee success. As it stands, Park Avenue Kitchen has much room for improvement, and without significant changes, it is unlikely to see us return.

Park Avenue Kitchen by David Burke can be found at 514 Lexington Ave, New York, NY | 646 847 4166

The Guild itself, a breathtaking fusion of interior design shop and restaurant, sets the stage for what’s to come. Here, the act of dining intertwines with the allure of shopping, making a visit to La Mercerie as much about savoring the visual feast of beautifully crafted goods as it is about the culinary journey. It’s an environment that compels you to linger, to explore, and to indulge in the sheer pleasure of beautiful things.

Upon settling into the warm and inviting space of La Mercerie, our evening began with a Deadwood Bourbon Old Fashioned, a cocktail that perfectly balances richness with a touch of sweetness, setting a high bar for the night ahead. The La Suave cocktail, a harmonious combination of rye whiskey, Chartreuse jaune, and Benedictine, further solidified La Mercerie’s cocktail mastery with its elegant blend of flavors. A bottle of Brisset Bourgogne Rouge, with its robust yet approachable character, accompanied our meal beautifully, bridging the gap between the opening libations and the culinary delights that followed.

The bread service, featuring irresistibly decadent bread accompanied by rich, salty French butter, was a simple yet profound pleasure, reminding one of the beauty in the basics when executed flawlessly. The Petit Tartare de Bœuf au Parmesan ($22) was a revelation, with its delicate balance of flavors and textures, demonstrating the kitchen’s prowess in elevating classic dishes.

The mains were a testament to Chef Marie-Aude Rose’s ability to harness the essence of French cuisine and present it with a contemporary flair. The Halibut au Beurre Blanc ($46) was a study in subtlety and sophistication, its delicate flesh enhanced by the silky, rich sauce. The Cabillaud à la Moutarde en Cocotte ($42) offered a slightly bolder flavor profile, with the mustard providing a piquant contrast to the tender cod. The Bœuf Bourguignon ($45), a classic dish reimagined, was both comforting and luxurious, its deep and meaty short rib flavors, married with traditionally French lardons on a cheeky bed of stortini pasta, showcased the careful craftsmanship behind each plate.

Dessert was a dreamy conclusion to the meal, with the Blushing Profiteroles ($17) stealing the show. The choux pastry, light and airy, filled with vanilla ice cream and drenched in hot chocolate sauce, was a sublime blend of textures and temperatures.

Service throughout the evening mirrored the French ethos of no-frills efficiency, marked by attentiveness and professionalism. While a touch more warmth would have been welcome, the service was impeccable, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience.

La Mercerie is more than a restaurant; it’s a celebration of the art of living well, where every detail contributes to a memorable gastronomic journey. With a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating, my anticipation for a return visit is tinged with the certainty that it will, once again, be an affair to remember. La Mercerie is not just a place to eat; it’s a destination to be experienced, cherished, and revisited.

La Mercerie can be found at 53 Howard Street, New York, NY | 212 852 9097

Our brunch began with the clinking of glasses with a perfectly “light-on-the-OJ” mimosa and a non-alcoholic Limonana that was a refreshing marriage of zest and sweetness. The shared hummus ($16) set the stage, creamy and inviting, with a memorable s’chug and perfect pita, was a testament to the simple pleasure of breaking bread together. The eggplant shakshuka ($21), while heavier on the tomato than anticipated, was a vibrant rendition of this beloved dish, its rich sauce cradling the perfectly poached eggs with a tender embrace. The Kataif French toast ($18), an ingenious twist on the classic, was nothing short of a revelation. Perched on challah and adorned with halva and macerated berries, it was a dish that danced between the realms of breakfast and dessert, ensnaring the palate with its symphony of textures and flavors. The shawarma ($22), with its spices and succulence, encapsulated the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine, a reminder of the power of good food to transport and transform.

However, not every dish soared to these heights. The Patatas Bravas ($12), though ambitious in its use of harissa, fell short of expectations, its blandness a stark contrast to the vibrancy of the other dishes. It served as a reminder that even in the most curated of culinary experiences, there can be moments of dissonance.

Yet, it is this very imperfection that underscores the Balaboosta experience. It’s a place where the food is prepared with an abundance of love, reflective of Chef Einat’s journey from the falafel-famed Taïm to this iteration of Balaboosta, alongside her partner and husband Stefan Nafziger. Their commitment to bringing the best of Israeli spirit to the table is palpable, not just in the food but in the carefully crafted brunch cocktails that echo the region’s ambitions and complexities (think harissa bloody mary, olive oil infused gin, and tahini kaffa).

In the end, Balaboosta is more than a restaurant; it is a testament to the beauty of shared meals and the stories they tell. With Chef Einat at the helm, it continues to be a place where friends, food, love, and laughter converge, embodying the essence of the perfect Balaboosta. As we look forward to our return, it’s with the anticipation of once again being enveloped in the warmth and vibrancy that is quintessentially Balaboosta.

Awarding Balaboosta a four out of five stars is an acknowledgment of its ability to offer a brunch that is as much a feast for the soul as it is for the palate. The service, characterized by warmth and attentiveness, complements the culinary journey, making each diner feel not just welcomed but cherished. While the Patatas Bravas may have been a misstep, it is but a minor chord in the larger symphony of flavors and experiences that Balaboosta orchestrates with grace and flair.

Balaboosta can be found at 611 Hudson Street, New York, NY | 212 390 1545

Upon entering Café Boulud, one is immediately struck by the seamless fusion of elegance and comfort—a hallmark of the restaurant’s design ethos that encourages diners to surrender to the culinary journey that awaits. The service, led by the commendable Ivan, sets the stage with a warmth and professionalism that is both inviting and reassuring. From the moment you are seated, Ivan’s attentive, friendly, and amusing, yet unobtrusive manner, ensures that the dining experience is as smooth as it is memorable.

The meal begins with an opulent flourish: a caviar supplement priced at a princely $160. This indulgence is more than a mere appetizer; it is a statement of intent, showcasing the kitchen’s commitment to luxury without restraint. The bread service that follows is not to be overshadowed, offering an array of freshly baked, crusty loaves that are a testament to the art of simple pleasures.

The starters—a triumvirate of Hamachi Pistache-Grenade, Saumon à l’Avocat, and Homard à l’Aïoli—each tell their own story. The hamachi, with its nutty pistachio crust and pomegranate’s tart sweetness, dances on the palate, while the salmon, paired with creamy avocado, strikes a harmonious balance between richness and freshness. The lobster, bathed in a delicate aïoli, is a luxurious nod to the classics, executed with a precision that elevates it beyond the familiar.

Moving on to the mains, the Poulet Rôti Forestière and Blanquette de Veau are standout dishes that reaffirm Cafe Boulud’s prowess in rendering comfort food with haute cuisine finesse. The chicken, with its perfectly crisped skin and tender meat, is complemented by a rich, earthy mushroom sauce that whispers of the forest floor. The veal, tender and enveloped in a velvety sauce, is a dish that comforts as much as it impresses, reminding diners of the chef’s deft hand with traditional French recipes.

Dessert arrives as a trio of confections: a classic tarte tatin, a molten chocolate cake, and a marjolaine. Each dessert, in its own right, is a finale that could stand alone for accolades. The tarte tatin, with its caramelized apples and flaky crust, is a love letter to French patisserie. The molten chocolate cake, with its gooey center, is a rich and indulgent journey into the heart of cocoa. The marjolaine, a layered confection of nut meringue and chocolate, is a sophisticated and textured delight.

The wine selection, a 2017 Gevrey Chambertin from Domaine Taupenot-Merme, deserves its own moment of acclaim. Its earthy, smoky violet and truffle notes were not just an accompaniment but a beautifully woven thread through each course of our dinner, enhancing the flavors and elevating the experience to a symphony of taste and aroma.

No review of Café Boulud would be complete without a nod to the exquisite selection of cocktails and the wine list, curated with an expert hand by the sommelier. The chosen Gevrey Chambertin, thanks to the sommelier’s insightful recommendation, was not merely a beverage but a companion to the meal, enhancing each dish with its nuanced notes and harmonious pairings.

Underpinning the entire experience is the impeccable management of Laura Farissier, whose oversight ensures that Café Boulud remains more than just a restaurant; it is a haven of hospitality where every detail, from ambiance to the final sip of wine, is curated with intention and grace.

In its rebirth, Café Boulud reaffirms its place in New York’s culinary landscape, not merely as a restaurant but as a beacon of French cuisine that celebrates the art of fine dining. Through the lens of a French food lover, one might see this as not just a meal, but a symphonic experience that resonates long after the last bite has been savored, a reminder of the city’s enduring love affair with food that transcends the ordinary, orchestrated by a team whose passion for hospitality knows no bounds.

Awarding Café Boulud five-star rating is a testament to its unparalleled dining experience, where every detail is meticulously curated to transcend the expectations of even the most discerning palates. From the moment one steps into its elegantly appointed space, the warmth and professionalism of the staff set a new standard for hospitality. Café Boulud not only meets the gold standard of fine dining but redefines it, earning its five-star rating with every dish, every glass, and every moment shared within its walls.

Café Boulud can be found at 100 E 63 St, New York, NY | 212 772 2600