Saturday, August 18, 2012

A Very Happy Birthday

For a number of years, hubby and I would take each other out to a surprise location (often new) for our birthdays. We always like trying new places (as you can attest to). Unfortunately, the surprise place, be it new or old, somehow disappointed on that special day. A strange phenomenon.

For hubby's birthday this year, no surprises. We went to Tastebuds American Bistro and, per usual, we had a mighty fine experience. And since we are regulars, Andrew and Valentina also had a couple of special items for the occasion.

The cocktail of the week was a Cherry Collins with two types of gin. Yeah, hubby likes gin.

Cherry Collins

A special wine was ordered for us: Adelsheim Pinot Noir. Unbeknownst to Tastebuds, this is our favorite Oregon Pinot producer.

Adelsheim Pinot Noir

We ordered Olive Tapanade with Goat Cheese and Crostini. And then was presented with a special appetizer: Duck Two Ways. Delicious! We spent some time experimenting with the various parings: duck with olives, duck with goat cheese, etc. All good.

Olive Tapenade and Goat Cheese Crostini

Duck Two Ways

For the main course we both ordered Crab-stuffed Flounder. Yes, I ordered the fish and it was good.

Crab-stuffed Flounder

Sweet endings reign on birthdays and hubby did not miss out on Chocolate Cheesecake.

Chocolate Cheesecake

Tastebuds gave hubby and experience to remember. We truly appreciated it and will stick with our local favorite for future celebrations.

(And this past week, I convinced my new boss, his wife, and a teammate to eat with us at Tastebuds. Everyone enjoyed this wonderful neighborhood gem!)

1 comment:

Shannon said...

I know that you have posted about Tastebuds before. I really must get myself there. Happy Birthday to your husband!