Vinoteque On Melrose - Restaurant Review

Nestled in the heart of the Melrose Quarter within the wandering streets lies the cozy corner auspice of Vinoteque, a seeming labor of love born of an insistence of will. Blending textures of European and Bohemian stylings, the setting is both tranquil, alluring and organic. As planters lining the angles are practically integrated with the growing of spices, herbs and vegetables for the chef's internment, the ability for the food to heighten the experience is ample.Sitting around a cozy table illuminated by soft candles, the dinner conversation begins with a touch of vine with a slightly brisk touch. The first dish to scintilate the senses was a silky gnocchi born of port in a stilton sauce that simply glided off the fork followed by a roasted beet salad garnished with candied walnuts and marinated in a goat cheese cristini that simply enthralled.Following in tandem, the comfort of fried green tomatoes topped with a dollop of goat cheese gave buoyancy while the grilled portabella mushrooms were smooth and tasty with just a dash of spice.However it was the short rib, silky and rich in its demeanor, that truly stood out. At times used as an antecedent, giving it front row service here in a filling but not overly diminutive plate gave the dish credence surrounded by a gentle nestling of mashed potatoes and spryly placed carrots.Talking to the head chef afterwards, the mix of teriyaki and down home spices with a spit roasted fusion of Korean based barbecue techniques is what gave the the short rib an extra slice of pizazz to bring the angle home.In the aftermath of dessert, while enhanced by the rich creaminess of the Marscapone Panna Cotta enraptured with ginger marinated strawberries and a wisp of aged balsamic, it was the Apple Tarte Tartin that was simply devilish in its progression, giving that sense of euphoria that always is welcomed when experienced.Vinoteque on Melrose has that relaxed but intermittently trendy vibe that gives a chill setting to enjoy a diversive array of food. With the tender and vibrant braised short rib and the stellar Apple Tarte Tartin, the euphoria of the moment is brought home, both comfortable and uplifting.