Happy Birthday & A Fabulous New Gastronomic Discovery

It is AMAZING to me that after over seven years in Jefferson County and nearly four in Port Townsend we had yet to eat at the highly recommended Wild Coho Restaurant. For some reason this little restaurant in the Uptown District with only 10 tables had intimidated me. Perhaps it was that it seemed so elegant that I was afraid we'd feel out of place. The chef came to Port Townsend via two of the finest Seattle restaurants and we're lucky to have him. I was intimidated despite having been to some of the nicest restaurants in Seattle and other cities. Well tonight was John's birthday and I decided to surprise him with reservations at what proved to be an absolutely delightful and charming restaurant. On this, a Wednesday evening, only half the tables were full so we got the full attention of the server and our service was impeccable. And the meal, it was easily the best meal we'd ever had in Port Townsend. We started with Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter, Sage and Mascarpone followed by Organic Seasonal Greens, Tomato-Rosemary Vinaigrette, Roasted Tomatoes, Mt. Townsend Trailhead Cheese and Little Garlic Croutons. For our entrees John chose Grilled Lamb Sirloin with Grilled Onion-Artichoke Risotto and Tomato-Mint Relish and I had Grilled Flat Iron Beef Steak with Potato Garlic Gratin, Morel-Roasted Onion. Of course since it was John's birthday we had to top it off with desert and we chose to share the Trio of Custards--Espresso, Crème Brulée, and Cinnamon Plum Tea Custard.

One thing I love about this restaurant is that it uses local foods, from cheeses at the Mount Townsend Creamery to Berries and produce from the great Finnriver Farm, Chimacum and Greens, famous garlic, and potatoes from Corona Farms most every ingredient used is local. This is where I want to spend my money for a delicious meal. Another fun thing about this restaurant is on Thursdays they have their "small plates" where for $5, $6, or $7 diners can choose one or more plates at bargain prices. John and I have decided we're going to do this several times a month.

We have a lot of really great restaurants in this little town by the bay, The Silverwater, The Castle Key at Manresa Castle, T's, and Sweet Laurette's (our favorite for brunch) but it is clear we've found a new favorite. It was a wonderful way to spend a birthday evening.