Nestled on the main drag of N Lamar Blvd, tucked in the corner of an old strip mall, next to a dry cleaner and behind a clothing store – Wink was surprisingly packed from the time we stepped inside at 8:45pm until we walked out just before 11pm. Extremely small and cozy, with a smattering of tables huddled together, the peach-colored space glowed with lively chatter and candlelight. Clad in plaid shirt and jeans, a very friendly young man named Alex greeted us each with a strong handshake, asked each of our names, and showed us to a table in the back corner.
Our waitress immediately brought out an amuse bouche for each of us – a tiny garlic tart for the gluten-eater and for me, a tasting spoon with small shoestring-cut cucumbers and a spicy pepper sauce to give it a strong kick. She quickly noted that she was also personally gluten free and that put me at ease... until she accidentally brought out regular rolls for me. Because it looked just like the other rolls around us, I double-checked with her (thankfully before taking a bite), and she immediately apologized and cleared off any plate or silverware that it had touched… the gluten-eater happily ate the gluten-filled roll for me, generously slathering up both rolls with fresh butter. While the moment of forgetfulness did make me a little uneasy for the rest of the meal to follow, she did restore my confidence with each plate served after that and noted how they made it gluten-free if any modifications needed to be made to it.
Our waitress immediately brought out an amuse bouche for each of us – a tiny garlic tart for the gluten-eater and for me, a tasting spoon with small shoestring-cut cucumbers and a spicy pepper sauce to give it a strong kick. She quickly noted that she was also personally gluten free and that put me at ease... until she accidentally brought out regular rolls for me. Because it looked just like the other rolls around us, I double-checked with her (thankfully before taking a bite), and she immediately apologized and cleared off any plate or silverware that it had touched… the gluten-eater happily ate the gluten-filled roll for me, generously slathering up both rolls with fresh butter. While the moment of forgetfulness did make me a little uneasy for the rest of the meal to follow, she did restore my confidence with each plate served after that and noted how they made it gluten-free if any modifications needed to be made to it.
The hamachi poke came out first – a small “cake” comprised of chunks of bonito (sushi-grade fish) and avocado, covered in sesame seeds and a flourish of vinaigrette and greens on top (hold the wonton for gluten-free modifications). The light, fresh flavors of the cake fit the mood of the day and its delightful warm sunny weather – refreshingly reminiscent of late spring days, here in the midst of winter.
Foie gras taco, anyone? Yes, one of the best food ideas ever imagined! I have yet to meet a foie gras I did not like, but this foie gras tostada plate takes the cake! I would have gladly ordered another round of the buttery-rich seared foie gras, atop a corn tostada and surrounded with bright red tomatoes, lettuce, and queso fresco.... for dessert... or breakfast... or any reason, at any time!
For the main entree, my antelope was served with celeriac and mushrooms – a robust blend of spices gave it an hearty winter flavor, yet it was light enough to enjoy on a beautiful spring day.
The duck breast entree was delightfully paired with a cake of sweet potato slices (that added a hint of cinnamon to the dish), cabbage, and mushrooms - a melt-in-your-mouth, flavorful, decadent blend of flavors that was seasoned to perfection.
Since the over-indulgent feasts of the holidays, lately I have been skipping dessert, but I was tempted by the lemon-filled crisp meringue cup, covered with berry sauce, fresh berries, cream, and a smattering of crystallized lemon zest crispies – I can't believe I ate it all! A refreshing finish for the meal.
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