So, this is not the Cheesecake Factory. If you want to choose from a big menu, order yourself a frozen margarita, and have a happy waiter cozy up to you, that's not going to happen here.
However, you can tell you are in capable, caring hands the moment you sit down in this unpretentious, cozy, yet sophisticated space. Admittedly, that charm is not expressed in a bunch of charming conversation. Instead, you are served a delightful drink immediately. The server (who I think is the owner) finds out what you won't eat, and then proceeds to bring you course after course of surprising, beautiful, and delicious food. Highlights for us tonight were the ravioli with zucchini noodles, the green and yellow beans in a citrusy cream sauce with lava salt, and the peachy bread pudding. We were still trying to figure out everything that was in that soup on the way home (chickpeas? grapes? almonds?). Oh, and the wine. The wine pairings were spot-on and included one that immediately made my top ten of all time list. The service wasn't chatty, but you know what it was...it was prompt, responsive, and thorough. The kitchen is open, and the care and concentration of the two chefs working was apparent throughout the evening. And you cannot beat the value.
One caveat. Bring a big appetite, because they are going to bring you a LOT of food. They are also going to bring you a lot of alcohol. Regulate yourself. You don't have to finish every glass of wine, although you'll want to try it just to experience the variety and pairing with the courses.
We'll be coming back and thoroughly recommend Elemental to anyone looking for a first-class night out.
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