Ken made a bet with Jay in January 2005 and lost. He finally took her to
La Campagne yesterday to make good on that bet. We'd visited over 10 years ago, but since we're more refined and into wines, Ken enjoyed the experience a lot better.
We arrived early for our 7 PM reservation and were promptly seated by Marco, the Maitre 'D (attired in a full tuxedo), at a corner table next to lovely fireplace.
We were offered a choice of water: Spring, sparkling and ice water. Ken selected the Spring; Jay selected the sparkling but changed her mind after realizing that large bottles were being brought to the table. We went with the spring water. It was a Fonte S. Barbara di Lurisia Natural Spring Water. Very clean tasting. (I know it's water, but work with me - j).
Warm bread was brought out along with herbed butter. Even Ken used the butter and he normally goes without. It was delicious.
Jay ordered the escargots en croute with caramelized fennel butter tarragon aioli. Six large snails were encased by puff pastry. Very delicious and more filling than she realized it would be.
Ken ordered the baby spinach salad with smoked salmon, goat cheese, candied pecans, and a raspberry vinaigrette. He actually enjoyed the smoked salmon, not realizing that it smoked is actually raw. Jay told him afterwards and he didn't get sick. Jay ate most of the goat cheese. The greens were very fresh and everything tasted delicious together.
Jay ordered the crispy prawn and scallop with herbed risotto, haricot verte, in a shellfish reduction. Three HUGE prawns and two gigantic scallops arrived atop the risotto. Everything was absolutely fresh and delicious, although the prawns were a bit salty for her taste. She struggled but finished the dish.
Ken ordered the pan seared filet mignon with creamy monbriac blue cheese, fingerling potatoes, with a caramelized onion demi glace. He ordered medium and the filet was perfect. In fact, he sent a glass of Zinfadel to the chef, and it was appreciated by both chefs (we were unaware that there were two).
Jay had to have dessert and ordered the creme brulee trio. Vanilla, lemon and chocolate were brought out. Each had a crunchy top. The chocolate made Jay moan with pleasure, it was so good. Of course, she couldn't finish it all so she brought home a little of the lemon and most of the chocolate. She's about to finish it now while she's typing.
In addition to Marco, two other servers made sure our wine was poured, and our water glasses never went low. Service was outstanding.
Wines enjoyed:
2002 Ridge California Zinfandel Paso Robles
2003 California Smoking Loon Viognier
Stemware was basic, but different stemware was available based on wine selection. Wine tastings can be arranged.
- Dress: Smart casual.
- Service: Outstanding.
- Decor: Multiple rooms with 3-4 tables in each, made for a cozy feel. French music played..
- Portions: Nice.
- Prices: $$$.
- Reservations: Suggested.
