Left the guys at home fend for themselves last night and met a friend at Bywater, which has been on my to-do list forever. Easily one of the best meals I’ve had in recent memory. A lovely room staffed by lovely people. You can get dressed up or come straight from the beach and feel comfortable either way.
I know crudo has become de rigeur these days, but my friend said it is a must-order so we shared the fluke crudo, which was luscious and brightened by sprinkles of coarse salt, Calabrian chili, orange, and fennel.
My friend ordered the grilled pork skewers. We had an odd moment when the server told her it was more appetizer-sized and that there was no starch so we ordered the very good thick potato wedges but completely unnecessary—the skewers were a big portion. She said they were wonderful (she described it more fully than I can—she’s a food writer).
When I see bluefish on a menu, I have to get it because B doesn’t enjoy it so I don’t make it at home. This was exceptional—the crispiest skin, the most delicious sofrito I’ve ever had, accompanied by a crisp little salad of herbs and sugar snap peas.
Tasty and unusual wines by the glass. I had an organic Italian white, sfera bianco and a delightful dry Lambrusco. My friend had a Negroni variation and then a white that I can’t remember.
We went to a weird art/music show afterwards. My friend had a nightcap of an ice cream cone at the Wright Scoop.
