Gnudi

Last night, I had the opportunity to dine at The Orange Squirrel in Bloomfield. As was true when I wrote about The Orange Squirrel this past August, Chef/Owner Francesco Palmieri and his talented team delivered another incredible experience.

Crab Cake

The cocktail list offers interesting selections and there are several wines by the glass. I opted for a split of Chandon Rose which paired nicely with my starter, Gnudi with wild mushrooms and Parmesan consommé. I’d not had this dish before and it was so flavorful that I was tempted to bring the bowl to my mouth to sip every last drop. Some of the other starters my guests enjoyed were the Shrimp Bisque with spiced fromage blanc, the Baby Octopus Stew with pancetta, fingerling potato and a turnip lemon grass broth and Tempura Green Beans, a nightly special. Another nightly special that was stellar was the crab cake over Sriracha aioli.

Rib Eye

It’s difficult to make up one’s mind where entrées are concerned as each is more tempting than the next. We finally opted for the Dry Aged Rib Eye, the Duck over Quinoa and the Veal Osso Buco. The rib eye is served in a cast iron pan with chipotle butter, confit garlic and sprigs of rosemary. It was perfectly rare, as ordered, and impeccably seasoned. The duck might have been some of the most tender we’ve had and the accompanying earthy quinoa was a great compliment. The Osso Buco is served off the bone in a small cast iron Dutch oven and delicious.

Fontina Mac and Cheese

Side dishes come with the entrées, except the Pot Pie, and some winners are the Fontina Macaroni and Cheese, the Irish Cheddar Mashed Potatoes and the Mascarpone Polenta.

Desserts are whimsical and end dinner on a humorous note. Last night, we chose the Three Dirt Tasting, three tasting portion of seasonal mousses layered with cookie crumbs.

Dinner at The Orange Squirrel never disappoints. Chef Palmieri crafts inventive dishes using premium-quality ingredients in an unpretentious space. Make a point to visit soon.

Hours:

Lunch: Monday – Friday: 12PM – 3PM

Dinner: Monday – Saturday: 5PM – 11PM

Late night fare: Monday – Saturday: 11PM – 1AM

412 Bloomfield Avenue

Bloomfield, NJ 07003

973-337-6421

www.theorangesquirrel.com