We celebrated Harry's graduation in the new chic Stratford restaurant located in the Bruce Hotel. The hotel itself won't open until May 24th but it certainly looks promising, and it has the smell of new construction that I love so much.
The best part of the evening was getting to know Harry and Laura's friends a little better. For some, the friendship dates back to middle school and they have an easy familiarity and humor that made the evening very pleasant.
Marilyn was eager to try the menu, especially after learning that the chef had been buying cheese at the Milky Whey when she was shopping for us this afternoon. I am less adventurous than she, but I loved my "Potatoes, potatoes, potatoes ..." appetizer that featured a variety of potatoes with a mildly seasoned white sauce drizzled tastefully around the plate. The others all chose a second appetizer but I just couldn't eat any more, especially because I had enjoyed several pieces of excellent bread.
My lamb main course was a kind of patty made of shredded meat, breaded lightly and roasted, not quite what I expected but excellent nonetheless. Unfortunately, the summer ratatouille (if that's what it really was) was full of olive bits, which I detest, so I didn't touch the accompaniment after the first surprising bite.
A few of us had dessert (not me) but all enjoyed miniature pastries. Just enough to finish off the meal. Perfect end to an exciting, milestone day.
