rebecca ballinger
Google
Michelin-star (but better) in the mountains!!! As semi-locals we've known about this spot buried in a dated retail strip next to Ingles and Dollar General for a few years. As the owners say, they are inclusively exclusive. IYKYK. Up until a few weeks ago you had to time it perfectly to beat the line for the intimate 10 seat counter lunch or dinner service. We'd stop in to buy their incredible fish or meats and look longingly at all the fun that was being had just a few feet away. One day we'd say to ourselves.
Well the day came this past Saturday and OMG was it ever worth the wait. We lucked out with an Omakase that rivaled ANY top restaurant. You think I'm exaggerating but look at the pics. It tasted better than it looked.
Ambiance: don't let the exterior fool you. It is BEAUTIFUL inside. Quiet, but lively, with chefs choice of music (chill reggae for us), soft lighting, thoughtful place setting and oh so friendly chefs and servers. Everyone was easy going, funny and knowledgeable. I wanted to hang out longer.
Food: anything I say is going to seem exaggerated. I mean really, how could it be that good? Ummm. It is. It wasn't just the freshness of the ingredients, or the creativity, or the beautiful plates. It was the feeling that every single bite showed the passion, maybe obsession, to share something incredible and special with those that have joined you at your table. Several courses, dashi broth over crab, the single bite of buttery, sweet black throat, the final bite that was Autumn on a ginger crisp will linger with me for a long time. I want them every day. I want them as my last meal.
Shouts to everyone we met-Tania, Tyler, Scott and George. Thank you for sharing your amazing talent, inviting us to your table and making us feel welcomed and exceptionally lucky.