Source |
We all ordered from the pre-set menu which had three appetizer options, four entrees, and one dessert (one!? really?), although the regular brunch menu was also available. I started with the sweet potato soup- a thick and creamy, slightly sweet puree topped with another dollop of cream and a few bacon sprinkles. I thought the soup played mostly on its sweet notes but my boyfriend claimed it had an Indian spice component. Regardless, it was hearty and satisfying.
A ordered the salad option- a pickled beet salad complete with huge chunks of multiple beet varietals, turnips, and raw cauliflower and radishes. Pinches of creamy goat cheese, a sprinkle of arugula, and a flourish of thick golden beet puree decorated the salad. The beets had a great softened texture which contrasted the crunchy radishes- although the raw vegetables were a bit of a surprise.
The last option was great for any veggie-phobes in the group- beignets with cranberry compote. Three airy puffs of fried dough were sprinkled with powdered sugar and embedded in a thick, tart cranberry sauce. Both the density and the quantity of the compote seemed out of proportion to the fluffy doughnuts- difficult to use as a topping or spread.
The most popular entree was definitely the short rib sandwich- a thick pile of braised meat pressed in between slices of grilled ciabatta. Crumbles of blue cheese were optional- I personally thought the flavor of the cheese overpowered the tender beef. Crisp, salty fries completed the plate- a perfect mid-day dish for the meat and potatoes type.
Since so many people were ordering the sandwich, I decided to be a little different and chose the most breakfast-y item on the menu. A thick patty of egg was folded over pale slices of smoked salmon, a few tendrils of purple onion, and more thick pinches of the most pillowy goat cheese. Because the eggs were cooked separately, the texture of the omelet was a little bit chewy- I prefer my omelets to have a little more cohesion and incorporation of everything in each bite. Home fries had a nice crispiness, but for some reason the elegance of the dishes and place settings made them seem a little sad.
There was also a pumpkin and chestnut risotto topped with pea shoots- a nice change from the typical mushroom risotto offered up for vegetarians. Apparently the chestnuts were practically nonexistent, but the risotto had a rich, earthy flavor that A likened to roasted corn. At first sight, the portion seemed a bit meager, but as a lunch entree the lightness was appreciated.
The one option for dessert seemed a little like an afterthought- it makes sense that they need something easy and quick, but the flourless chocolate cake with vanilla-orange ice cream was sloppily plated. The ice cream was melted across the plate, pooling around the cube of fudgy cake. I'm typically anti-chocolate cake (too boring), but the density and thick ganache icing gave the cake a richness that was undeniable. Conversely, I am a proponent of plain vanilla ice cream, so the melted Creamsicle slush wasn't my favorite.
The Restaurant Week aspect of this meal was definitely limiting- I would have ordered a completely different meal had I gone a la carte. However, the overall experience was fantastic- the personal service of the private dining room made it feel much more celebratory. Everyone seemed pleased with the meal and it essentially worked out to everyone getting a free dessert thanks to the $20 prix fixe format. I'd love to make it back for dinner- the location, menu, and atmosphere make it seem like a prime date spot!
Fork
306 Market Street
You know, I haven't eaten a sit-down meal at Fork for a long time, but since I work down the street, I'll occasionally get a to-go breakfast or lunch. And I must say that your review hits the mark spot-on. I find the omelets a bit rubbery and overall attention to detail is often lacking. Melted ice cream on your dessert? Tsk, tsk. When Fork first opened, it was really great. I think some more focus would help them get back on track.
ReplyDeleteGreat review, as always!