WASHINGTON ST. BISTRO, MORRISTOWN
Could the reason that Washington St. Bistro was so empty, when we dined there on a weekday night, be because it is a neighborhood restaurant in the business district of Morristown? It is small and intimate, with about 40 seats, a very creative menu that states: Inspired Colonial Faire, and the food was really great. Washington St. Bistro is the type of establishment that would fit right into Montclair or Ridgewood, two very popular restaurant towns.
The food is an eclectic mix of American/French bistro fare, such as meatloaf, cassoulet, orecchiette with duck confit, grilled maple-chipotle glazed pork chop, steak, and duck breast. Kudos to the chef for listing which items on the menu are gluten free, and for writing the specials and prices on an easy to read blackboard.
Starters were a wilted kale, shredded Brussels sprouts and apple-smoked bacon salad, which was tossed with a warm, maple-hazelnut vinaigrette. It was large enough for two to share and had harmonizing flavors and textures; sweetness from maple syrup; crunchiness from hazelnuts and saltiness from bacon, all adding interest to the kale and Brussels sprouts. This salad was warmer than the lentil with Andouille sausage soup, which was sent back to the kitchen to be heated up. It was very filling and so thick that I was eating it with a fork. Tiny impressively diced carrots added color.
Both entrees were specials. The boned, juicy chicken leg and thigh were attached and stuffed with artichokes, shiitake mushrooms, leeks and goat cheese; a creative dish not often seen. Unfortunately, the sautéed calf’s liver, a dish we never hesitate to order, was tough and chewy. The accompanying blackberry pan sauce and creamy smashed potatoes were A-plus, as was a side of cauliflower and leek gratin, which was rich, creamy and so large that we had leftovers.
Dessert was also big enough to share and the very refreshing lemon semifredo with raspberry coulis and hazelnuts was a perfect ending to our meal.
Wood floors with Oriental-style area rugs, flowers on tables, brick walls with local artists paintings for sale all add to the charm of Washington St. Bistro. Open for lunch Monday through Friday and dinner daily. They have the food—they just need the customers.
Lemon semifredo.
Photo courtesy of Lowell Saferstein
Washington St. Bistro
23 Washington Street
Morristown
973-267-7425
BYO
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