Elderflower Cocktail

I have the (mis-)fortune of having been born on Valentine’s Day. Not only did this very nearly get me named Valentina (although my mother assured me that possibility was entirely in my father’s mind), but it means I can never go out for dinner on my birthday, at least not if I want good food in pleasant surroundings.

However, my husband and I more than made up for this lacuna by going out on Saturday night, and we made it particularly enjoyable by visiting the Lobby on York. It had been a while since we’d been to a restaurant where the hostess takes your coat for you, so that was very nice.

We started off with the lovely cocktail pictured. It was deceptively sweet and smooth, but I was glad I wasn’t driving afterwards. Note to restaurant: I had hoped to link to the description of this drink but the cocktail list on the website is still from 2012, although the link itself says 2013. If somebody fixes it, it’s the elderflower vodka cocktail and I strongly recommend it.

Mixed Greens

As our starter, we chose to share a mixed greens salad. The vinaigrette was just divine and the other ingredients were fresh and lovely. I especially liked the pumpkin seeds.

I have to confess that this is where I run out of pictures, because when our main course came (Alaskan lingcod for me, Atlantic salmon for my husband), it was just so yummy we started eating before I thought to take a picture. I blame the vodka.

The cod was soft and juicy and the black quinoa was very intriguing, although I didn’t have much of it as I’m trying to avoid grains. My husband reported that the salmon was likewise excellent and he particularly liked the tiny potatoes that came with it.

We regretfully passed on the dessert menu but the coffee was drinkable. I’d expect a restaurant of this calibre to be above Nabob but then I’m a bit of a coffee snob. It was the only jarring note in the entire experience.

In conclusion, I would definitely recommend this restaurant if you have an occasion to celebrate, or if you are in a position to drop over $90 for two people without wine or dessert.