The only thing cooler than the return of Deep Ellum's Green Room - Dallas' one-time Rock and Roll fine dining favorite - is that Chef Joel Harloff and his "modern American cuisine" have found a new home. When last we left Joel - I was off to buy him a beer at Tei-An after the heartbreaking closure of Dali Wine Bar. He spoke of opportunities... it didn't take long - he was announced as Green Room executive chef, like, two days later.
I was pleased to get an invite from Chef Joel to attend the 'friends and family' test run at Green Room last Saturday.
The room is reminiscent of the original, but I do miss the darker, sexier feel. "If it ain't baroque, don't fix it," or something like that. They are still tweaking some lighting and decor details, so we shall see how that evolves. The food, however, is good to go. I'm a fan of Joel's food and was not disappointed.
^Pan Seared Georges Bank Scallops - Pickled Radish and Sweet Red Onion, Two Potato Galette and a Bing Cherry Beurre Blanc; ^Grilled Texas Quail - Scamorza and Fresh Herb Potato Gratin, Purple Hull Peas and Wild Oregon Mushrooms and a Fresh Thyme Quail Demi Glace.
^Nova Scotia Halibut - Maine Lobster, Roasted Sweet Corn and Yukon Gold Potato Succotash, Buttered Sugar Snap Peas and a Meyer Lemon Beurre Blanc; ^Grilled NY Strip - Sea Salt & Champagne Vinegar Potato Wedges, Texas “Caprese” Salad, Fresh Herb Demi Glace.
^Grilled Texas Peaches - Texas Peaches Lightly Grilled and Served Warm with DuIce de Leche Ice Cream and Mixed Nut Struesel Topping; ^Assorted Sorbets and Ice Creams.
A little H2O was nice after indulging in the BYOB option that will be in place for the next couple weeks (or you can enjoy complimentary wine selections with dinner while they wait on the liquor license).
^My somm' buddy Scott Barber joined and brought a bag of goodies; ^Chef Harloff after service with his favorite vintage.
The much lauded "Feed Me, Wine Me" dinners are back as well, which should be a real treat - a nice match with Chef Joel's style and enthusiasm.
There will also be a special menu for the awesome rooftop patio - can't wait for fall. Green Room, once again, goes in the "Regular Hang" column. They are booking up already - see you there!
Brad, great 'gout' (where's my circumflex?) of what's to come! I, too, once spent loads of time at The Green Room - it was my favorite place to hang in the mid to late 90s.
My brother had a chance to go on Friday - I had to work. According to my brother the menu is already tight and if he says it, I believe it. But still, I can't wait to see for myself what Joel's got cooking. Looking forward to my first visit. Hopefully it will end before like 5 a.m. or something.
Posted by: Brooks Anderson | August 11, 2010 at 02:43 AM
Joel's food was outstanding and very wine friendly. After losing so many of our best foodie places over the summer it's great to welcome back a new one.
Posted by: Scott Barber | August 11, 2010 at 11:59 AM
I've gotta go.
Posted by: Margie | August 24, 2010 at 06:26 PM