Auction Ends: Jul 19, 2016 10:08 PM EDT

Dining

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Taste: A place for food, wine, fun Gift Certificate ($50)

Item Number: 111

Estimated Value: 50 USD
Sold: 50 USD to hoffpeace

Number of Bids: 5 - Bid History

Item Description

Upscale American bistro offering a set-price option, a large wine list & occasional vino dinners.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – You could easily drive by the unassuming block that Taste occupies on Lee Road in Cleveland Heights without realizing the delights that lie behind the simple glass-fronted entry. What a shame it would be to do so, for this refined eatery adds a much-needed element of sophistication to the pub- and tavern-heavy Cedar-Lee neighborhood.

The menu offers a well-edited selection of European-influenced standards imbibed with contemporary flavors.

The calamari appetizer is a far cry from the usual fried affair – this lightly sauteed version glistens with a slightly tangy beurre blanc sauce. The sea scallop entree delivers perfectly seared scallops atop a fruity soy emulsion.

Bland-sounding accompaniments such as julienne vegetables and quinoa are anything but; instead, these flavorful sides complement the shellfish wonderfully. Likewise, the roasted duck breast pairs well with grainy-mustard-infused mashed potatoes and a blood-orange demi-glace – each flavor element complementing the other.

Desserts such as a fluffy tiramisu served in a martini glass and white chocolate vanilla creme brulee are enlivened with just the right amount of . . . good taste.

A moderately priced selection of Old and New World wines is much appreciated. The prix-fixe three-course menu, which includes two glasses of wine, is one of the best values around.

www.tastefoodwine.com