Ouest

07/27/09

Special occasions or just want a good meal

by LouisR

We made a good choice in celebrating our anniversary at Ouest. From the food to the service, everything was first rate. We are looking forward to our next time at Ouest to try some of the other selections on the menu.

• Pros: Great food & service

04/09/09

Elegance Without the Fuss

by clarknyc

Ouest is one of my favorite restaurants. It's that simple. Time after time I've enjoyed my experience at this Upper West Side standout. After several years, chef Tom Valenti continues to offer up exciting, creative and flavorful food, he has not rested on his laurels, like some New York chefs. As for service, it is just how I like it - helpful and aware, but not hovering.

A favorite appetizer is the grilled baby octopus which comes with a roast tomato and caper vinaigrette. It is amazingly tender and the vinaigrette compliments it boldly without overpowering the fresh seafood. My entrée of choice is a guilty pleasure, bacon wrapped pork tenderloin with grilled pork belly, yes, triple pork! I'm sorry, wrap it in bacon and I'm there. Words to describe this decadent course - crispy, juicy, smoky goodness. Pair that with their magnificent mashed potatoes, they are special. For desert, if you have room, you might as well close your eyes and see where it lands on the menu because for the life of me, I've never had a bad one at Ouest. Maybe that's not helpful, but that's just how I feel. Ouest is certainly one of the best restaurants in New York, that makes it a rare standout in the neighborhood.

• Pros: Consistantly great food and service
• Cons: None that I have experienced

07/21/08

Excellent Brunch

by zanewynand

I had the $28 price fix special for Sunday brunch, and both the food and the atmosphere was excellent. They start you off with a bread basket, which included scones so soft that they melt in your mouth. Very fresh, possibly baked just minutes earlier. For appetizer, I recommend the Spicy Tomato Bisque, which is incredible and addictive. It's like having your first alcoholic drink after staying sober for 10 yrs. For your entrees, go for the Sturgeon or the House Smoked Duck Breast (just google my name, Zane Wynand, and Ouest, and you can see some pictures of the dishes). All the flavors go together very nicely.