You would be immediately censured as being too shallow if
you judged people based on their looks. But when it comes to food, I am a firm
believer of the phrase that prettier food tastes better.
One such restaurant that focuses on the quality of
presentation as well as the taste is Chez Henri, which offers a dynamic fusion
of French and Cuban cuisine. Since it opened its door in 1994, Chez Henri has received
wide acclaim in the culinary world, having won several Best of Boston awards
like “Best French Restaurant,” “Best First Date Restaurant,” and “Best Fusion.”
Upon entering the restaurant, my dining partner and I were
greeted by a hostess who seated us on a candle-lit table. Other than the fact
that the dim lighting made it hard for me to read the menu, the ambiance
radiated warmth and comfort.
We were munching on slices of French bread when the waiter
brought our entrees. Despite my aversion to cheese, I decided to get the Seared Ricotta & Semolina Dumplings ($24)
because I was craving the chewy texture of gnocchi. What surprised me the most
about the dish was its stunning presentation.
About a cup of gnocchi in the
shape of mini marshmallows was placed on the center of a white rectangular
plate over purplish red puree of roasted beet and carrot. A sautéed medley of
glazed broccoli, cauliflowers, summer squash, and carrots was served on the side
to satisfy my daily servings of vegetables.
The lightly seared ricotta
sprinkled on top added light crispiness to the doughy gnocchi.
My friend’s entrée, Pan
Roasted Long Island Duck Breast ($28), didn’t disappoint either. On top of
the rhubarb ginger gastrique, or caramelized sugar sauce deglzed with vinegar,
laid pre-cut slices of medium rare duck breast that were juicy without being
too tough.
A bed of citrus salad on the side with poached pear offered a little
crunch from the arugula, while the mashed sweet potato found a perfect medium
in texture between runny and coarse.
Indeed, the presentation of food matters, but I think the
food at Chez Henri would have tasted great even if I had been blindfolded.
Located on Shepard Street near the Quad, Chez Henri (http://chezhenri.com/) is open for dinner
seven days a week and for Sunday brunch.
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