Tasting Menu Dinner

[fineanddive]

I am looking to do a tasting menu dinner for 2 on a Friday night in October. The important considerations are food (duh), wine selection, ambiance - more romantic/intimate conversation than lively or a scene. We also do not want to feel rushed, and hope to dinner would last 2+ hours.

I am considering No. 9 Park, Pigalle, Troquet, and L'Espalier (although have not heard enough about the new location yet). Any thoughts among these or recommendations for others? I am looking to keep it to Boston-proper, and not cross the river.

[bostongallovesfood]

No. 9 Park is supposed to be amazing. I went to Excelsior last February and had an amazing experience there; it was during a week night so not sure how the weekends are. I had their tasting menu w/wine pairings and was so happy. http://www.excelsiorrestaurant.com/home/

[almansa]

I would consider calling Will Gilson at the Garden in the Cellar and requesting one. They have a thoughtful, if not extensive, wine selection, and he has a good palate and the eagerness to comply.

[Dr.Jimbob]

Chuck Draghi has just opened a place called Erbaluce in Bay Village. A tasting menu at his old joint, Marcuccio's, opened my eyes to what food was capable of doing and was the first event to convince me that cooking could be a creative art every bit as reality-warping as a great novel, piece of music, painting or film. The place is brand new, so nobody has any experience with this place yet, but I think you'll find many of us who will be willing to try the place on blind faith.

http://www.erbaluce-boston.com/

Agreed that No. 9 Park is similarly reality-warping at its best.

[TheTrout]

My wife and I are fans of Pigalle. Their "petite" tasting menu is $95, $125 w/ wine and the grande is $115/$160. If you plan to eat there, wait until the theatre crowd has departed, usually about 7:45pm. The whole vibe of the place changes. Kerri & her staff will pamper you with wonderful, seamless service, and Marc & the kitchen crew will tantalize your taste buds. So, what are you waiting for?

[franksnbeans]

With the same criteria, Mrs. Franks and I did the late-summer tasting menu @ TW Foods a few weeks ago, and it was excellent. Had read some of the negatives (here) about the place, but had no quibbles. 7 courses and not really an off note. Nice pacing, nice portions, delicious food.

[lettezilla]

We were just checking out the menus at Upstairs on the Square in Cambridge, they have a nice looking tasting menu and vegetarian tasting menu as well.

[alwayscooking]

No 9 definately and their wine pairings actually enhance the food. I've had L'E as well but have not yet been to Troquet.

[cannedmilkandfruitypebbles]

I've been to all but Troquet. I'd put No.9 park first, L'Espalier at the back end. You can search this board for my review of L'E. I was underwhelmed. At No.9, I was overwhelmed.