Balsan

little gem romaine salad

tarte flambee

pizza margherita

I am a huge fan of flambee (insert accent aigu).  Huge.  And there are several spots that I frequent specifically for their respective flatbreads.  Balsan, one of two restaurants in the Elysian Hotel, is home to my most craved flambee and is a version of what is commonly called an Alsatian.   Prepared in the restaurant's famed wood-burning oven, the tarte flambee features bacon, onions and uplands cheese.  Simply exquisite. Especially when paired with the little gem Romaine salad and a glass of rose.

For those not familiar with Balsan, it is an elegant, bistro moderne.  The menu is seasonal and varied, featuring raw bar selections and classic bistro dishes.  Executive Chef Jason McLeod is the lead visionary and his concept focuses on fresh and in-season, utilizing ingredients from 65 local Midwestern farms.  Charcuterie selections are cured in-house and cheeses are unique to the restaurant.

The whole roasted chicken for two is also another distinct favorite but is deserving of its own blog entry.  Stay tuned!