Kathryn L.
Yelp
A TASTE OF CHRISTY HILL
It gets busy in the summer, so reservations are highly recommended. When we were afraid our day was going to be to jammed, we discovered it was too late to cancel ours on Open Table without incurring a fee (I think it was $50.). We forced ourselves to go, but as soon as we arrived, we were both in the mood to celebrate my early birthday dinner. Since my sister is a regular, J.D. recognized her immediately. As soon as we officially checked in, we were led to a beautiful outdoor table with a stunning view. Luckily, my sister specified no "high tops" since we're both short. On the level below us, we could hear the live guitarist and singer play some enjoyable music. After so many gatherings this week, we both had had enough alcohol, so I opted for the Merry & Bright mocktail, a delightful concoction of lemonade, black currant, orange, pinks and a sprig of rosemary. We have so many favorite dishes here, so we were thrilled to see the tasting menu offered everything we desired. It's a good thing we both wanted this because it's only available for the entire table. Once we ordered, the chef sent us a refreshing amuse bouche of fig, mascarpone, hazelnut and mint. The Ahi Tuna Crudo, which soon followed, was spectacularly fresh and melted on my tongue. Red Yuzo Kusho, Ginger Ponzu, cucumber and Fresno pepper jazzed it up. The Burrata and Summer Peaches salad with arugula, pea tendrils, radish, cashews and Saba vinegar was surprisingly disappointing. The peaches were too hard and the dressing didn't have enough flavor. The Day Boat Scallop with marble potatoes, Romesco sauce, fennel, Gaeta olives and orange was fantastic. Of course, I wish there had been more than one since this is my favorite dish! I've never had The Moroccan Spiced Lamb, so it was fun to try this. The charred cauliflower, golden potatoe puree, olive stuffed Piquillo peppers and Charmoula loaded it with flavor, and the lamb was perfectly cooked. A delicate Chocolate Tartelette with coffee cremeux, mascarpone and raspberries topped off our meal. Even though they charge an extra fee to use a credit card, my sister paid with VISA. (Who wants to carry around hundreds of dollars in cash? ) Last I checked, the fee was 2%, but another review claims it's 6%. Service was stellar throughout the meal. Despite the blips, this turned out to be the best dinner this trip! Now, I'm glad Open Table wouldn't let us cancel. Enjoy the view and the meal on Christy Hill.