My Mind Was Blown

My dear friend of almost 25 years, Nini, kept at me about this restaurant I'd never heard of. It took her six months to get a reservation; thanks to their Michelin star (the only establishment in Sacramento to receive one), it's gotten a lot more difficult to secure a table. Finally, this past Saturday, we made our pilgrimage to The Kitchen and I kid you not, it was the best dining experience of my life. The place is pure magic and creates an atmosphere unlike anything I've ever encountered on the restaurant scene. I'm still formulating my thoughts about it, so stay tuned for more musings in the near future.

Basking in the amazing abundance of the region, they offer an ever-evolving seasonal menu. Taking cues from the farmers, ranchers and mother nature, they create a weekly menu as part of a seasonal snapshot, in an effort to showcase the best of this culinary bounty. Executive chef, Kelly McCown, the Master of Ceremonies, as I called him, was unbelievably creative and energetic.

I'm including our whole menu below to give you an idea of the delights that were enjoyed. If you have a chance and are willing to go to Sacramento, book The Kitchen and get ready to have your socks knocked off!

ACT I
Order your libations.
Stroll our kitchen, chat with the chefs, eat Hog Island oysters.
Relax on the patio and visit our wine cellar.

ACT II
“Pesce Crudo” of California Black Cod
Eddie’s Crunchy Garlic, Cara Cara Oranges, Chile and Tangerine

ACT III
Pan Roasted Day Boat Sea Scallop
Yellow Foot Chanterelles, Wild Rice “Congee”, Charred Leeks and Japanese Artichokes

INTERMISSION
Walk around. Visit and sample at chef stations.
Enjoy our garden patio. Relax by the fire with more Hog Island oysters.

ACT IV
Sunchoke and Abruzzo Truffle Agnolotti
Watercress and “Ewenique” Fondue

ACT V
Braised Heirloom Pork Cheeks
Celery Root, Porcini Mushroom, Winter Parsley and Pommes Nycholl

ACT VI
Dark Chocolate “Terrine”
Banana Pudding, Honey Roasted Peanuts and Sassafras Cream