Harry’s Chop House
www.harryschophouse.com
When I envision a great chop house, two different sceneries typically run through my mind; the dark paneled old boys clubs of the old lawyer movies; and the simplistic “we’re just here for the food” setup of the old cowboy movies. Where does Harry’s fit in? Neither of these actually. Harry’s is a cozy neighborhood “IT” spot. The ambiance is stylish yet warm; the dining area features dark-wood furnishings, snug booths and walls mounted with amber-hued sconces. It’s a Thursday night, the house is packed and the show has been rewritten, rehearsed and is ready for applause. On with the show!
Act One: Appetizers
Scene One.
For starters I tantalized my taste buds with Yellowfin Tuna Tartare served with Shitake Mushroom Pot Stickers and a Curry Vinaigrette. The presentation is beautiful, simple yet playful. The Tartare was superb, thin and tender, perfectly seasoned. The Pot Stickers are crisp, sweet and savory. The combination of the light, refreshing Tartare with the savory Pot Stickers is unexpected yet delightful. Diva’s Dish: 7/10 Diva Stars
Scene Two.
Harry’s classic Shrimp cocktail. The Shrimp cocktail features jumbo shrimp cooked and chilled to perfection. The shrimp are firm yet tender. The sauce is a Horseradish Crème Fraîche, Herbed Tomato Coulis. The flavors are muddy, and are reminiscent of a child’s first experimentation in the kitchen, dumping everything he can get his hands on into the mix. This sauce is so awful that I would rather eat ketchup! Diva’s Dish: 4/10 Diva Stars
Act 3: The Main Course
And for the Marvel of a main course I was entertained with a 14 oz blackened Rib Eye served with Mashed Potatoes, Sautéed Mushrooms with a gorgonzola fondue. The steak is seared to perfection; the spice rub is alluring, the right balance of the beef’s natural flavors and a custom blend of spices. The mashed potatoes are creamy, buttery and melt in my mouth. The sautéed mushrooms are bursting with flavor. The gorgonzola fondue is the star of this act, rich and creamy, with earthy flavors it is a perfect companion to the blackened Rib Eye. Diva’s Dish: 8/10 Diva Stars
Diva’s Dish on Harry’s Chop House: This is a show worth a second run.
