the birthday surprise: part 2
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As we walked up to the doors, Mr. M had no clue where we were going nor what was inside. He didn’t google, and therefore the surprise I thought was ruined was really still fully in tact. We were here:
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Morimoto’s newest restaurant location in Napa. You know, the only Iron Chef that’s really an Iron Chef? And the one that makes an awesome Soba Ale? Unfortunately our reservation was for 8:30… and unfortunately a new restaurant always has kinks when dealing with people who don’t want to leave their table after their meal is complete. So we perused the collections of sake cups and $62 soy salts while we waited in the front room to be seated. Luckily, when we did get the opportunity to chow down, it was all worth it!
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We decided to make the meal quite simple, and went with the Omakase (or chef’s choice). Traditionally, omakase in a sushi restaurant is really just whatever the chef wants to make for you. Morimoto’s is similar in the fact that you don’t know what you’re getting, but it’s more organized and closely resembles a blind tasting menu instead. And it’s not just sushi.
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1st course: the infamous toro tartare. And yes, guacamole and crème fresh tastes amazing with tuna!
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2nd course: a play on Mr. M’s favorite appetizer – hamachi w/mushrooms and yuzu.
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3rd course: Bagna càuda with local vegetables. (aka. hot olive oil w/garlic & a wee bit of anchiovies)
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4th Course: Foie Gras w/seared duck (I took the photo after I started eating…ooops!)
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5th Course: palate cleanser of kelp tea.
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6th Course: Nigiri
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7th course: Surf & Turf & Turf (pork, wagyu beef, & 8-spice lobster w/crème fresh)
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8th course: poached pears with pistachio ice cream and champagne zabaglione (this is a HUGE bowl)
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And the end birthday result:
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Happiness!
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7 Comments
Amanda
Droooooool. I am so jealous; I totally want to be your husband right now! We’ve been meaning to get to the Morimoto in Philly forever, but we’ve never managed to make it work. I had no idea a second one opened up in Napa.
Catherine
So jealous. I’d go to Napa just to eat there.
HamiHarri
WOW! That looked like an amazing meal!
I hear you on struggling to surprise the hubs…and getting to a movie. I’ve been to the weekday “Stars and Strollers” once, but really, it’s not much fun when all you want to do is discuss the movie with hubby and he hasn’t seen it :P
Terri (Swan)
JEALOUS!! That looks like it was amazing. I’ve actually never been to the Morimoto here in NYC.
Mina
that meal looks amazing! what a great birthday dinner!
Mrs. Perfume
FABULOUS! I’m with Terri: Jealous! I am dying for sushi and this does not help. Looks like a wonderful time!
Katie
Wowww! That looks like quite the meal. What an amazing bday dinner for sure!