Southwark.

Hi friends,
I moved to Queen Village recently and have had fun exploring my new neighborhood during the past month.

Last night, my friend Mark and I went to Southwark. I've been to this restaurant, at the corner of Fourth and Bainbridge, before but only for a drink at the bar. They are known for their classic cocktails, or old-man drinks, that pair well with its speakeasy vibe. It's always been a recommendation from friends as a spot for dinner or drinks and I am glad I [finally] made it past the bar.

It was outstanding.

I knew they had a patio but was pleasantly surprised when it was quite garden party-ish. 

I had the Chad Pinot Noir and already knew I would go back for this glass of wine.

The menu boasts creatively paired local ingredients. If you are in doubt, order it. You will not be disappointed. I'm only a little sad I missed the oysters and the garden salad with Birchrun blue cheese, spiced pecans with a leek vinaigrette. For an entree, I also debated between the pork belly, the trout and the polenta with fresh cheese curds. But, I will be going back very soon since it's only a handful of blocks away.

 

I opted for the fluke with perfectly grilled carrots, an arugula salad and rye berries. It came highly recommended from our knowledgeable waitress. I will dream about this dish. Mark ordered the beef tongue entree. And, while I did not try the tongue myself, his clean plate led me to believe he enjoyed it. I did try the heirloom tomato and corn salad that accompanied the beef. The salad was dressed with a salsa verde but it seemed closer to a pesto dressing. It was a burst of freshness.

We opted to skip dessert (in favor of heading to Kennett) and out came two bites of salted caramel. They were a perfect combination of salty sweetness at the end of our meal.

For an impromptu, late dinner on an early fall evening, we were pleasantly surprised.

The patio will be open through Thanksgiving, our waitress said, so before the weather turns, head to Southwark, enjoy an adult beverage outside.

Enjoy!
xo
Your friend, Caroline