Chez Catherine

January 18, 2009

Last night we ate at Chez Catherine in Westfield, NJ which more than lived up to its reputation and is a definite recommend. As far as I am concerned any menu that has escargot on it is worth a visit and trust me they are few and far between.

The little French bistro had no more than 10 tables and was elegant yet somehow casual and unpretentious at the same time. There were 2 prix-fixe tasting menus available as well as a regular prix-fixe menu which everyone in our group of 4 decided to order from. (Note: if you choose the tasting menu, everyone in your party has to participate.) They offer 5-6 varieties of red and white wine by the glass and an extensive list by the bottle. We happily shared 2 bottles of a nice Cotes du Rhone which went perfectly with each and every course and dish.

After we ordered, courtesy of the chef we all had a little taste of beef tartare on a thin and crispy chip and it was a welcome beginning to our food journey. For starters, among us we had escargot (!), mussels, foie gras and lobster bisque which were all palate pleasers. In the entree category- 3 orders of the spicy Canadian lobster with saffron risotto and 1 monkfish prepped and served with bacon, mushrooms and pearl onions in a veal demi-glace. The lobster was delicately prepared and taken out of the shell with a perfect amount of juicy flavor. The monkfish was light, flakey and delicious. Throughout dinner, our bread basket was bottomless with warm fresh slices of crusty baguette. For dessert, we nibbled on the cheese plate (with toasty raisin bread), warm gooey chocolate Vahlrona cake and profiteroles- my top 3 desserts all in one place, all at one time! The service was super attentive but not at all intrusive.

Other menu choices included free-range chicken, rabbit, sea bass, sole, veal and NY strip steak. There were also 2-3 other appetizers that I could have easily chosen and been happy with.

It is a perfect night out for a special occasion or for no real reason at all.

Next time we are in Westfield, you'll know where to find us.

Bon Appetit!
Foodie

PS- A word of advice: Chez Catherine is VERY French in every way, including in price and serving size. If you are looking for big family style portions, or an inexpensive night, go to the Jolly Trolley down the road.

Restaurant: Chez Catherine
Location: 431 North Street W., Westfield, NJ
Phone: 908.654.4011
website: www.chezcatherine.com