the sunny side

during times like the present- when one is constantly bombarded with grim headlines, a bleak economic and job environment, and a sense of uncertainty- it's important to find solace and take comfort in happy things. i found myself fortunate enough to spend my weekend celebrating several special occasions including the birthdays of close friends and news of an addition to the boy's family.

saturday night was dinner at dressler to celebrate theng's 30th birthday. especially delightful because i've been wanting to try it out ever since the boy and i had drinks at the bar this past june. luckily, it did not fail my expecations. the restaurant is beautifully decorated and excudes a sense of warmth and history. the service was adequate although i secretely thought the waitress was trying to upsell me on wine rather than really try to recommend something i would like. although on a positive note, we were never rushed despite staying until midnight.

for appetizers, we ordered the baked scallop special and the warm artichoke heart salad. entrees included the long island duck, braised short ribs & grilled hanger steak, and the bacon wrapped monkfish. dessert included bamboo honey panna cotta and a fig tartine topped with vanilla ice cream.

while there were some slight missteps- the duck was a little lacking in flavor and the fig tartine was unremarkable- the overall execution was excellent. the dishes were perfectly grilled, seared, sauteed, or baked- showcasing the freshness and quality of the meats and vegetables . i'll definately have to go back and sample some of the other dishes- and you can bet i'll be dreaming about their warm artichoke heart salad until then!