Providence Restaurant-Melrose-1st Time Visit:

[Hypnotic23]

Really looking forward to my first dining experience at Providence.

Any suggestions on dishes that are a must order or go with the tasting menu?

We're starting the evening off with drinks & 1 appetizer at Mozza then head to our dinner at Providence.

Would love some input?

Best,

Stuart

[JudiAU]

Why drinks and apps at Mozza? Cocktails are very nice at Providence.

[Porthos]

Why drinks and apps at Mozza? Providence has a nice cocktail list also. Plus, you will get more than enough to eat.

If you create your own tasting or supplement a tasting menu, I recommend the "ugly bunch" which is sea urchin, goeduck, abalone, salmon roe on smoked panna cotta. I also recommend the signature Santa Barbara prawns cooked in hot salt. If you order a la carte, don't pass up the charcoal roasted turbot on the bone.

[Hypnotic23]

great suggestions-thank u!

[Hypnotic23]

Tell me more on what to get for ala carte since we might go that route? Friends say the foie gras is a must and scallop dishes?

[Porthos]

The Santa barbara urchin under scrambled egg is good. The menu changes with the seasons and my last visit 3-4 months ago was during truffle season so the 63 degree duck egg with polenta and truffles was delicious. So is the chitarra pasta with truffles shaved tableside.

If it is your first fine dining experience I recommend a tasting menu and supplementing with what looks good on the market specials menu or getting the chef's tasting. Certain amuses are served only with tasting menus so you might miss out on the "full experience" and some fun bites. Get a hotel nearby and cab it so you can add the wine pairings if that is an option.

[ipsedixit]

Do the chef's tasting menu. Bring a seat cushion, it's a good 2.5-3 hours. Enjoy.

[Hypnotic23]

I viewed the menu, the Sea Urchin & Lobster pasta looks amazing! I've heard about their scallops too, can't wait.