A Dream Degustation...

I am often asked where I had my best meal. I can never answer because I have had many memorable meals that have left a lasting impression, even now. So this would be my ideal tasting menu, though it's a bit extended. 

Amuse

Salmon Cornet. Red Onion Creme Fraiche, Sesame Tuile

The French Laundry

-Everyone has seen it, many have tasted it, it just makes you smile.

Sea Urchin Panna Cotta. Vanilla Oil. Lobster Tartare

The Dining Room at The Ritz Carlton, SF

-I first had this dish at Masa's when Chef Ron was there. I always remembered it.

First

Sashimi of Santa Barbara Spot Prawn. Yuzu Gelee. Fried Heads. Fresh Wasabi

The Dining Roon at The Ritz Carlton, SF

-We used to have a tank full of live spot prawns in the walk-in. The spot prawns were killed to order. Exceptional ingredients + restraint = amazing results

"Oysters and Pearls"

Per Se, NY

-I believe there are some dishes that cannot be improved upon. This is one of them.

Second

Artichoke Soup. Black Truffle. Parmaggiano

Guy Savoy, LV

-This is his dish. It is served with wild mushroom brioche and truffle butter. Need I say more.

Cold Smoked Ocean Trout. Quail Egg. Caviar

Tetsuya's. SYD

-This was a dish that I had hoped would never end.

Third

Asparagus Salad. Poached Egg. Sourdough Crisp

Alain Ducasse at The Essex House

- This was the first dish that opened my eyes to great cuisine. I was 18 years old and had never tasted anything so fresh, light and exciting. 

Tuna Ribbons. Avocado. Radish. Ginger Marinade

Jean George, NY

-This is a dish that reflects Jean George's food. Light and refined.

Fourth

Langoustine Ravioli, Cabbage. Langoustine Jus

    Joel Robuchon at The Mansion

- Tres Fantastique. 

Sea Urchin Capellini, Caviar

Le Bernadin, NY

-This was just ridiculous. I asked for more bread to finish the sauce.

Fifth

Toro Comparison

Sushi Yasuda, NY

- This was a flight of five different toro nigiri. From fatty to basically melting at room temperature.

Barely Cooked Salmon

          Le Bernadin, NY

- The piece of salmon was touched by heat. The waiter then drizzled a warm black truffle vinaigrette tableside.

Sixth

Monterey Bay Abalone. Pig Trotter. Brown Butter

Manresa, SF

-This is what surf and turf should be.

Black Truffle Stuffed Four Story Hill Poulard

Per Se, NY

-The best poulard stuffed with black truffle and roasted. Lights out.

Seventh

Kobe Beef. Spicy Mustard. Watercress Tempura

Joel Robuchon at The Mansion

- The best beef simple served with mustard and crispy watercress.

Katz's Pastrami Sandwich. Mustard. Rye Bread. Sour Pickle

    Katz's, NY

-If you had one, you would understand it's place on this list.

Eigth

Al's Italian Beef

Chicago

-Drowned in gravy, laced with peppers, side of fries, there is nothing better.

Chicago Dog "Dragged through the garden"

Hank's Haute Dog

Chez Helfer

-The best way to eat a hot dog with vienna beef. 

Ninth

Baba au Rum

Alain Ducasse at The Essex House

-Served with a cart of fine aged rums. You choose.

Blue Cheese and Vanilla Panna Cotta

Tetsuya's, SYD

     -His signature dessert, now I know why.

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