We began our night wandering the street, analyzing address signs since Alinea is subtle and unsigned...a subtle black building front that appears unassuming.
Once inside the indulgence begins with welcoming staff who know exactly who you are an treat you exceptionally from the very beginning.
Alinea https://www.alinearestaurant.com/ was an experience in presentation and flair. Of course, the Michelin 3 star favorite is well known for its inventiveness and we loved that aspect of the meal. Our favorite dishes for flavor were the “truffle explosion” and "hot potato, cold potato." For experience, the “vegan anchovy” served in an antique service, purpose built for the task, was impressive to look at, but lacked the punch of an anchovy in taste. The incense rooster added a layered experience to the poultry course. The dessert finale, served directly on the tabletop, could not avoid the sensation of déjà vu with slight foreboding for anyone who has seen “The Menu,” but there is no way that you can observe the precision and commitment of a Michelin-starred fine dining staff without seeing the possibility of darkness alongside the glow. We had nothing but admiration for the Alinea staff, executing their delivery perfectly, but with humor and joy that could never be found on the dystopian island featured in the movie.
We got the standard wine pairing and walked away with a new fun varietal, loving the Lunae Vermentino. Can’t wait to drink more of that grape this summer! Apparently I'm not alone. I arrived home to discover an article about this same grape by the WSJ wine critic https://www.wsj.com/arts-culture/food-cooking/is-vermentino-the-new-chardonnay-inside-sonoma-wines-italian-renaissance-15f789c4.
The motto that I live by is that when life offers you an opportunity to experience something novel, take it...and Alinea certainly did not disappoint.
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