Restaurant Week: Lacroix

Lacroix is one fine-dining establishment that proves yes, Restaurant Week is worth it.  You will never have the quality food, service, and atmosphere that this French restaurant brings for just $20 in the day time.

The interior is modern and sophisticated with a beautiful view of Rittenhouse Square.  The bustling activity and busy chatter added to our excitement to try out the much-talked-about French restaurant.

Appetizer: Sweet Corn Veloute with Maitake Mushrooms and White Miso

Absolutely delicious.  I don’t normally order soup but I’m glad I did this time.  The richness of the soup complimented the meatiness of the mushrooms, and what seemed to look like croutons were actually cubes of corn cake – a pleasant surprise.

Main Course: Lamb Neck Ragu with Cocoa, Beet Gnocchi, English Pea

AND Corvina with Melon Succotash, Cauliflower, Herb Butter

I was not greedy enough to ask for two entrees.  Rather (speaking of good service) the waiter happened to bring out the wrong entree, only to leave the ragu on the table free of charge and bring out the corvina shortly after.

The Lamb Neck Ragu melted in my mouth.  With the touch of a fork, the pieces of meat fell right off each other.  While the meat and gnocchi were both soft in chew, the peas gave a nice crunch.

The Corvina had the nicest, crispiest skin to its tender meat.  The saltiness of the fish balanced well with the sweet peaches and spiced up cauliflower.  The dish offered an amazing variety of texture.

Dessert: Trio of Raspberry Crumble, Carrot Cake, and Flour-less Chocolate Cake

No need for a long explanation on these petite desserts, other than that they were decadent and delicious.

French cuisine is definitely on the rise with a modern, adventurous edge.  While Restaurant Week is sadly over, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat yourself to a fancy meal at least once this semester (and there’s always next year)!  Give yourself a break from the hustle of Penn’s campus and invite your friends to dress up for a weekend lunch or brunch in the city where you’ll be treated like royalty.

-Carolyn Koh

Lacroix at the Rittenhouse Hotel
210 W Rittenhouse Sq
215-790-2533
http://www.lacroixrestaurant.com/