On the Road: The Red Cat in NYC
A few of my work colleagues in New York are transplanted Southerners who are always looking for a great place to get a taste of home. Recently they decided to show off their latest find, the scrumptious restaurant, The Red Cat. If you find yourself in the Chelsea area of Manhattan, do yourself a favor and check out these fine digs. To start, there’s the watermelon salad with goat cheese. This is a seasonal dish, so don’t be too disappointed if it’s fallen off the menu.
Equally yummy is the Reuben wonton with Red Cabbage slaw (Asian fusion, always a hit!). I felt like ordering a plateful.
The tuna tartare didn’t fit the Southern thing for me at all, but how could I care when it was so yummy? Served on crisps, it was an easy starter to share.
For entrees, I opted for the Grilled Atlantic Salmon with grilled ratatouille orzo. Anytime you combine fish with grilled vegetables and pasta, I’m going to be happy.
The Pan Seared Duck Breast with fingerling potatoes and a tart cherry reduction was divine. I was pleased that the duck wasn’t too fatty. MMMMM.
I'm not really a grits fan (that's Southern CALIFORNIA origins leaking out!). Still, the scallops with grits was a big hit with my true Southern friends.
By far the highlight of the meal were the lightly battered and fried green beans. I’m still having dreams about these babies!
As if that weren’t enough, we went for desserts! Sugar cookies with a creme fraîche and toasted coconut were good, but resistible.
The Lemon Souffle with vanilla poached plums was tart enough to make my cheeks pucker, but sweet enough to still melt in my mouth.
Finally, the Summer Pudding with a Creme Fraîche Cake, berries and cream. This dish tied as one of my favorites.
Enjoy your road trip!