We decided to eat at the bar and talk with him. He spoke very highly of Sean Fowler the chef/owner of Mandolin's. Paul's got a fabulous personality for being a bartender/PR man for a place. It showed again this time. During the 1.5 hours we sat there, there were 4 other couples and a single guy that came in and sat at the bar who knew Paul. He is also a good waiter and he is right on with his recommendations.
Doris ordered a vodka martini, I had some signature drink with primm, ginger, basil, lemon, and cucumber... really refreshing... like an iced tea.... Pimms Cup #41.
We ordered the cheese plate off the Bar Menu.... great selection of tasty cheeses. Doris then ordered the Blackened Grouper.... WONDERFUL. I had the Chicken and Waffles....Dang It Was Gooood! They gave you an A-line chicken breast with a wonderfully crunchy fried batter seasoned just right. The buckwheat-buttermilk waffle was cooked so it had a slight firm exterior but soft interior... and not overcooked so it was dried out. The braised mustard greens were a nice touch with some sweetness added. They also gave me a small on-the- side pitcher of honey.... and it tasted like it came from the hive, not a store.
I am not going to tell you about the desserts... you need to go try them yourself.... but as a hint, I liked the chocolate souffle and Paul's recommendation for the Smores (nothing like a smore) was Right On!
In closing Paul made Doris a Manhattan.... using two different vermouth, and maple syrup.... very tasty and light tasting.
Priced reasonable. I've bee told the Saturday and Sunday Brunch is Fabulous. Check them out and go eat!! Check out their website: http://mandolinraleigh.com/
Menu changes monthly depending on what is fresh and in season. Sean was a Chef at the AAA 5 Diamond, Fearrington House, in Pittsboro, NC. His skills and talented team have a winner for a restaurant!
Gary
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