pole magazine 1 | Seite 80

Delicacies Komi- D.C. Nestled in the heart of the Nation’s capital, Komi, much like the city in which it is , is petite and teeming with surprises. Parties of four or larger cannot be accommodated at this restaurant, making it ideal for a romantic rendezvous or one-on-one business meeting. Printed menus are also unavailable leaving guests to the whim of the three awarded chefs that have made Komi one of the most elite and acclaimed Greek restaurants on the East Coast. If you are a fan of surprises, you’ll love what is in store, from caviar to tenderloin and fresh mackerel. The multi-course dinner begins with a series of Mezzethakiasmall, light dishes, that progresses to richer flavors including a family-style entrée, pasta, and followed by cheese and desert. The designer menu is worth roughly $135 per person, and from start to finish guests will be treated, receiving a homemade lemon-salted lollipop with the check. Komi gives Ancient Greece a facelift blending traditional and modern flavors, so feast like the Spartans or the Presidential Family who frequent Komi for special date nights. French Laundry- Yountville, California French Laundry’s owner, renowned chef Thomas Keller, fell in love with the quaint yet fine restaurants throughout France. Stemming from that inspiration, French Laundry was born to be a uniquely American restaurant with the feel influenced by the French countryside. Situated just north of San Francisco, in the center of Napa Valley, the restaurant exudes the same romantic and lively expression found in France. Seasonal vegetables are picked straight from the Napa Valley and served in the distinctive nine-course tasting menus that are designed everyday by chefs. “No single ingredient is ever repeated through the meal” states the owner, who uses this method as a way to excite and please the curiosity. Each series of small dishes encompasses its own flavor and emotion that satisfies your appetite and have you longing for more. Napa Valley and wine are synonymous and a such, the restaurant’s cellar boasts bottles from all the major grape-growing regions of the world. Guests are welcome to bring their own bottle, with a $75 fee, but because tasting menus change daily, the wine list consists of characteristic bottles suited for every meal and designed to enhance the flavor. With such grave detail given to all aspects of the menu, Keller vows each patron will leave saying, “I wish I had just one more bite of that.” 80