Vince N.
Yelp
Originally, I had reservations set for The Surfing Pig, but after perusing their menu, the plethora of pork dishes was a gout disaster waiting to happen. Enter Livestock Tavern and their broader menu.
ATMOSPHERE:
Like other Chinatown dinner eateries, decor was similar: high ceilings, brick walls, dark and chic.
We were sat at a high top, my preferred seating style, but their set up was very uncomfortable. I took the fixed bench seat that was about 3" below normal which made for a high table position. My spouse sat across me on the tiny, backless metal stools. But, our corner table offered good views of the street. Pro tip: Ask or reserve to sit at the bar or low top.
MENU:
Mix of apps, soup, salad, pasta, seafood, poultry, meats. Cocktails, beer, ciders, extensive wine list and whiskey selections.
BEVERAGE:
Rosé - $12.00
I mistakenly ordered this thinking it was a sparkling wine but it was traditional wine. Light-bodied and fruity. Next.
Brüt Sparkling - $12.00
There we go, that's what I'm talking about! Love fizzy, bubbly drinks every now and then. Refreshing and not too tart.
FOOD:
Smoked Octopus - $21.00
Mmm, one of my favorite seafoods. Tender but with a bit of chewiness, they were stir fried with peppery andouille sausage, olives and artichokes. Highly recommended!
Pumpkin & Brussels - $18.00
On recommendation by our server, this was another outstanding choice. The slight bitterness from the Brussels sprouts paired well with the sweetness from the pumpkin. Bits of lamb bacon added savory-ness and a pleasurable texture. Two yums up (this coming from a pumpkin despiser, LOL)!
Herb Roasted Chicken - $32.00
My entrée selection as I'm trying to eat healthier. Man, what a lackluster, disappointing and undercooked dish. On the positive, the thigh (a bit pink in color) was overly-stuffed with spinach and mushrooms that spilled onto the plate. The drumstick was cooked on the outside but still bloody near the bone. Had I eaten this piece first, I would've sent it back but I was stuffed by then. Seasoning was nil, like I was in the hospital on a low sodium diet. I substituted the truffle (yuck) mashed potatoes with their garlic version which was sadly the highlight of the dish. Pass.
Braised Short Rib - $38.00
The spouse's meal. Look at my photo, the dish looks superb. But, he was right there next to me in the same hospital on a low sodium diet. Flat tire! Pass.
RESERVATIONS:
Highly suggested as seating capacity isn't plentiful. I booked on OpenTable.
SERVICE:
We've never been the first party in (5pm rez) but were on this day as we had a flight to catch back to Maui. So, greeting and seating were immediate.
Our female server was friendly and professional. Food delivery was quick.
OVERALL:
Apps so good they outshine the main dishes.