Saturday, May 14, 2011

AUGUSTINE'S CLASSY €25.00 TASTING MENU

AUGUSTINE’S
I walked confidently into Augustine’s last evening, confident in the knowledge that I was going to get an excellent meal. Standards are constantly high here, never a let-down for this customer.

It is a treat to call here: friendly welcome and then, once the coats and jackets are put away, an informative little session at the table where the different dishes are outlined and explained (if needed).

You need a little advice? No problem. Last evening, I had to curtail my wine-drinking as I were going out again later on. That meant I didn't (but I will next time) take up the offer of three specially selected wines to accompany the €25.00 Tasting Menu. I was wondering about a compromise rosé on the list and then our advisor offered me a glass of their newly arrived Rosé Frizzante from Piedmont.

There are six courses on the 2011 Tasting Menu here. Got off to lively start with a little Gooseberry Cordial and that was followed by a most delightfully cooked Sea Bass, with root veg and peanut vinaigrette.

On then to the Cauliflower Potage which is brought to the table and poured over praline, deep fried Thyme and a little Truffle Oil. Dish number four was Pork Belly on Puy lentils and served with Potato Gratin, again beautifully done and presented.

Then onto the Milleens Cheese and caramelised plum, yet another perfect match. Finished off with a Surprise Dessert that turned out to be Mixed Berry Jelly with raspberry sorbet and coulis. Melt in the mouth finale leaving one happy punter about to settle up and promise to anyone who’d listen that he’d be back, a promise meant to be kept.

Early on, I had some breads from the selection offered. Enjoyed very much the Walnut and Raisin and also the Parmesan. And that Italian Rosé? Very tasty indeed, lovely red berry fruit, nice acidity and a very pleasant Frizz! Summer in a bottle even it was somewhat less than summery on Lapps Quay.

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