Axel K.
Yelp
A hidden treasure that I am so happy to find. I see most of the reviews are about the pastries, but we went for dinner.
Having lived in France for 6 years, I usually lower my expectations when I visit a "French" restaurant in the states.
We were greeted by a lovely team of waitstaff at the door. My dad immediately asked to change to a table instead of booth seating, which they accommodated graciously. As we perused the menu, it became difficult to choose what we were having for dinner. We watched a few entrees being brought out and noticed that the portions were quite generous, so we decided to skip the appetizers as we were all not incredibly hungry.
Next time I will make a meal out of a couple of appetizers and I have to try their French Onion soup. My dad and I ordered the Beef Bourguignon, and his wife ordered the Flat Iron steak. As our pre dinner wine arrived, the chef/owner, Didier, came out to introduce himself and welcome us to his restaurant. It was obvious that Didier was happy to have us and we chatted about his 45 years of being a professional chef in many places of which I was familiar. After he went back in the kitchen, our waitress delivered a surprise "Amuse-gueule" of a Single coconut encrusted prawn with a bed of Frisée lettuce and edible flowers, lightly dressed. It was at this point we knew that we were in for a treat, or so we hoped.
The entrees followed with a second glass of burgundy and the passion of the chef was on full display on our plates. Not only was the food well presented, it was absolutely satisfying. The vegetables were a mix of carrot, shallot, baby eggplant, beets, fennel, endive and radish, all cooked (not overcooked) to a perfect al dente, so you can taste each vegetable for their own flavor. This was the opening bite to the tender chunks of Beef Bourguignon served over a smooth potato mash.
All of this filled our bellies so well, we were unable to order dessert.
This was all served in a modern, yet very comfortable setting tucked out of the way near the bustle of Montgomery Village.
I am reticent to leave a glowing review for fear that I won't be able to book a table in the future, but this is a gourmands delight.
The prices are very reasonable, including the wine list. There is a $30 corkage fee if you choose to bring that 1961 Lafite Rothschild out of your cellar.
I told Didier that we would be back, and in fact I am going over this morning to sample the Patisserie side of the Resto.
Absolutely fabulous meal!!
My photos will not do it justice.
Edit: I went to Pascaline at 9am today and they were out of plain & almond croissants and lemon tarts....boohoo for me. I guess you have to be quick on Sunday morning, but an hour after opening?