My friend and I ate in the Aquavit Cafe last night and really enjoyed it. Unlike the formal dining room, the cafe is more casual dress, but the service is still impeccable and the food fantastic.
We both had the prix fixe menu ($37). The herring appetizer I had allowed me to try the differently spiced options--they were all delicious. My friend had the shrimp salad toast, which she also enjoyed. For my main entree, I had the chicken. I was worried that the chicken was "playing it safe" and that it would be bland. Luckily, it was very nicely presented and flavored--it was actually quite rich, especially for chicken (also a bit salty, but I liked it). My friend had the Swedish meatballs, which were not the little BBQ ones I grew up eating at potlucks. They were large and flavorful (despite not swimming in BBQ sauce ;-)), and served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.
For dessert, we both had the chocolate peanut butter cake, which is served with sorbet and citrus salad. Like everything else, it was beautifully presented and very rich and delicious.
You can add wine pairings to the prix fixe for $20 more, but we decided to do our own thing. My friend had just one glass of pinot grigio, and I did an aquavit sampler (flight of 3 for $17). The choice of flavors was impressive and ranged from sweet to savory, all pretty unusual. I like spice, so I opted for the Mango-Lime-Chili, Saffron, and Pear-Vanilla-Black Pepper aquavits. The MLC and PVB were both good, the infusion definitely ruled the vodka. The saffron on the other hand, was not very strong, so it mostly tasted of vodka. Not bad, I'm still glad I tried it. I'd definitely like to try some of the other flavors they have at another time (Horseradish, Raspberry-Lime-Ginger, Pumpkin-Espresso, etc.. the list goes on).
In addition to their regular menu and prix fixe menu, they offer a Swedish Home Cooking meals menu which is different every night, Monday-Thursday, and includes an entree and dessert for $20.
All in all, if you are looking for a nice dinner out, I recommend this place. You will be well taken care of, and enjoy some delicious Scandinavian food.
more