Chrissy E.
Yelp
After a long day of work and a client event right after, my colleague suggested going to Louie. She was able to make a reservation for 9:30 but we were seated when we arrived at 8:50.
I have only been to this place once and it was years ago, so I was excited to be back and try something new. While walking to our seats, I couldn't help but notice the mixture of aromas, all pleasant but piquant at the same time. This place is quaint and cozy but perfect for a nice dinner any day of the week.
After browsing the menu, we decided to split an order of brussel sprouts and I chose the El Tigre for my cocktail. Each drink I've ever had with Mezcal has surprised me because aside from the smokiness, I never knew what to expect. This drink was perfect. It was smooth, not too smoky but perfectly balanced with the blood orange and lime. It also contains Angostura but I'm not sure I would have recognized it. Either way, it was super refreshing and I'd def. order it again.
The brussel sprouts arrived after a little while and were just as I had hoped. Perfect char yet crispy, while seasoned with pecorino and lemon. I'm mad the picture I took came out blurry, because me telling you about them without seeing it doesn't do them justice. It was at that point we were given our complimentary bread and olive oil. Don't be deceived by the picture as it's a large block of bread! I'm unsure which seasonings they used on top but it def. has a kick, so beware. It's soft yet filling, so I'd suggest nibbling as to not get full before your entree. The olive oil was light and fresh and paired well with the bread, so well that I didn't even bother to ask for my normal balsamic and parm to accompany it.
After we finished those, our entrees came. This was my first time ever eating Chitarra and I'm happy to announce it was a winner! The server said the chilli used for the sauce was Calabrian and does have a kick, so I opted for the smallest amount possible. The pasta was cooked perfectly al dente, and had the perfect ratio of sauce to noodle. Lest we forget the generous Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top, not too much to over power the dish but enough to complement it in the best way. The tomato sauce was bright and robust, bursting with flavors and this was the first time I could taste how fresh the tomatoes were. That def. made a difference.
Since it was late, I only got a few bites and boxed the rest. It was probably best I tapped out when I did because I was still salivating over the brussel sprouts and the bites of pasta I had. By then, our server came and brought a dessert menu but we both declined.
This was one of the best meals I've had in a while. The service was superb from start to finish and the ambiance was on par with everything you'd expect. I can't wait to come back.