A Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh C!

After talking about this place for almost 2 years, we finally made our way there last night. All I have to say is...."what was I waiting for?". So to celebrate J's big "decision", and just cause we were long overdue for a nice date night, I made reservations at AOC. We arrived a little early and were greeted at the door by a warm and friendly staff. Since our table was not quite ready, the sommelier quickly handed us a wine list. I selected the Strange Syrah - a full-bodied and fruity syrah, while J soaked in the atmosphere and admired the decor. Within 5 minutes, we were promptly seated - and boy, we had a great seat. We were escorted to the terrace on the second floor where a quaint table for two in an intimate candlelite corner awaited us. We had a full view of stars and the clear night sky.

Within 30 seconds, the waiter brought over their infamous spicy harissa dip, olives and bread. Talk about service! We perused the menu and were not at all pressured to order. Our waiter was extremely friendly and suggested we order 2-3 dishes per person. I already kinda knew what I wanted, but in taking a closer look at the menu, made a few last minute changes....

Spicy Harissa Dip & Olives

(This was spicy....even I had a hard time eating it)

Summer Fruit Salad with Jamon

(Perfect beginnings - light, seasonal fruits enhanced by a balsamic dressing to bring out their natural sugars)

Arroz Negro with Squid & Cream Fraiche

(This was unbelievable - perfectly cooked squid, laced with sweet cherry tomatoes...and did I mention it came with cream fraiche???)

Halibut, roasted aprictos on couscous

(The fish was buttery and juicy, couscous a little think, but the roasted apricot was AMAZING)

Chanterelle Gnocchi

(I can eat this all day long...but I think that would be bad)

Foie gras stuffed quail

(This was our favorite - the quail was completely deboned and the stuffing was to die-for)

These dishes were the perfect portion and well-balanced. Although a little on the heavy side (that gnocchi was sooo rich...but soooo good), we ended with the quail which was surprisingly pretty light for a protein dish (and stuffed with foie-gras). We didn't have any more room for dessert, so capped the meal off with coffee. What a wonderful start to date night....happy and fueled-up, we made our way down the stairs and towards the Arclight for a night at the movies.

I still cannot believe I waited this long to dine at AOC - I cannot wait to come back!