08 December 2007

Blackbird

Once again hitting the restaurants in Collingswood, we visited Blackbird, 619 Collings Avenue, Collingswood, NJ 08108, 856-854-3444, on Saturday, December 1.

We arrived on time for our 6:30 reservation and were warmly greeted and promptly seated.

Our server, Michael, introduced himself right away, opened our wines, and brought the proper stemware to our table.

Warm slices of crusty bread were brought to the table with olive oil. Devoured.

Appetizers:
Jay ordered vineyard snails with pine nuts, fresh herbs, crispy onions in a Madeira wine sauce. Very good.

Ken ordered Thai chicken spring rolls. Yummy.






Entrees:
Jay - pepper crusted saddle of venison, butter nut squash ravioli in a Grand Veneur sauce. Done to perfection.



Ken got the special - a crispy striped bass, which stayed crispy throughout the meal. It came with lobster risotto.

For dessert, Jay enjoyed a sweet potato creme brulee (made by Jill Van Dimes, Tangerine, between 2nd & 3rd Streets near Market in Philly)

This was a pleasant experience as we were not rushed, and we will return. The chef/owner, Alex Capasso, was present throughout our dining experience, however we did not get him to take a picture with us.

Wines enjoyed:
2001 Renato Keber Grici Chardonnay
2002 Acacia Pinot Noir

  • Dress - Smart casual

  • Service - excellent. Our server, Michael, was extremely attentive.

  • Decor - Although a small space, the tables were oriented in such a way as to not be infringing on your neighbor.

  • Portions - Perfect.

  • Price - appetizers were in the $8-10 range; entrees ranged from $20-$30s

  • Reservations - Reserve one week in advance for Friday and Saturday evenings.



We planned to return today for lunch to have the shrimp, avocado, wasabi wrap and chat with server Janine, but Jay fell ill (again) and stayed in all day. [sigh]

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