Obviously, I was looking forward to the opening of Chef John Tesar's Spoon Bar & Kitchen in Preston Center for some time.
Everyone knows John and I are buddies - (I have no financial interest in the
restaurant, however I have consulted on certain design elements).
Regardless, it is my opinion that Spoon is excellent and is another
important chapter in the renaissance of the Dallas dining scene.
As the critics chime in (Dallas Observer, Modern Luxury, Dallas Morning News) the consensus has been extremely positive - I concur ...and I get around. This place is good.
But critics are not always able to experience a restaurant with the depth afforded a devoted, food obsessed patron.
With that in mind, I'll do what I do best - here are a bunch of
pictures from some of the many meals I've enjoyed at Spoon, along with my trademark sentence fragments:
Spoon already has a crowd of devoted regulars and still sees its share of curious customers looking for a glimpse of the deftly crafted character Tesar has created and Top Chef promoted - "The Most Hated Chef in Dallas."
^Crudos
^L: Oyster and Truffle Stew
^L: Lobster Pot Pie
^ Remarkable Smoked Sturgeon Head Cheese.
Sommelier Sabrina Snodderley's wine program features interesting and nicely priced selections that match wonderfully with the food. John and Sabrina continue to add depth to the White Burgundy program - music to my ears.
Tesar's passion and pedigree are reflected in the constantly evolving menu of exceptional seafood dishes as well as other "Not Fish" selections (not pictured, lol.)
The recent addition of David Collier as pastry chef completes the meal in an artful manner - creative, whimsical and delicious:
To be sure, Tesar has his fair share of haters, and now - many more devotees. He is without question an outstanding seafood chef.
Spoon is easily one of the most important and exceptional new
Dallas restaurants to open in some time. The city's diners, critics, and even bloggers need to support and
encourage more of this passionate risk-taking and attention to detail -
not
less. ...and the place also has a cool logo.

Haven't checked out Tesar's stuff, but those photos are crazy. Can't say I've ever heard of a Lobster Pot Pie, but I'm definitely going to be trying one soon. http://www.nashvilleautogroup.com
Posted by: Kris | March 06, 2013 at 04:02 PM
One of the best meals I have enjoyed in Dallas! The service was amazing...very friendly and helpful with suggestions. The decor is simple, but classy. But, the food steals the show. Highly recommended restaurant.
Posted by: Seattle Emergency Plumber | March 29, 2013 at 08:59 PM