Monday, February 4, 2013

New Town Bistro



New Town Bistro is one of my favorite restaurants in Winston-Salem. Its inconspicuous location in a strip mall makes it that much more of an unexpected treat. Numerous visits over the years have never disappointed – the Belgian Waffle at brunch was an all-time favorite, but unfortunately has been removed from the menu (don’t worry, I’ve expressed my concern to the chef.)

The walls of the modest-sized dining area are adorned with beautiful paintings, all of which are available for purchase. The intimate bar offers additional seating, as does an outdoor patio. Freshly baked Rosemary Focaccia with balsamic vinegar and olive oil is brought to the table upon being seated. The Mediterranean Tapas Plate features authentic, well-prepared Greek favorites. Hummus and pita alongside perfectly crispy falafel are a fantastic starter. Falafel can vary among restaurants, so if you want awesome falafel, New Town Bistro is the place to go.

Oysters on the half shell can be prepared anyway you like, and are creatively presented on a bed of sea salt. I preferred the Oysters Casino’s lemony taste and breadcrumb topping to the Oysters Rockefeller’s spinach, parmesan and tomato garnish.

Kobe Beef is the highest quality of meat in the world. The few times I’ve had it in my life, I’ve been overwhelmed with its tenderness and flavor, and I didn’t feel guilty indulging in the huge Kobe Burger. (The USDA is having a tough time trying to decide whether true Kobe should be imported or not.) Not that it needed any toppings, but Garlicky Boursin Cheese, Caramelized Onions and Sautéed Mushrooms enhanced this gourmet burger, which was served on a pretzel roll. What a heavenly delicacy.

Brunch is my favorite meal, and New Town does the best brunch in town. The Bloody Mary bar offers more “toppings” than I could have imagined – pickled okra, caperberries, pickled green beans, shrimp, bacon and a variety of hot sauces are pleasing to Bloody Mary buffs such as myself. Omelets are huge, made with three eggs, and offer unique fillings, like crab and avocado. The Southern Comfort Plate is just that – top-notch cheese grits, fried green tomatoes, scrambled eggs and blackened shrimp – this will put you in a Southern food coma.

I’ve never had a bad dining experience here. I cannot say enough great things about this restaurant. Whether you go for dinner or brunch, you need to go soon, because this intimate restaurant won’t be a well-kept secret much longer. I’ll be back to try the Almond-Crusted Brie with Strawberry Balsamic Compote, and much, much more.

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