My hubby and I dined fairly late Saturday at the Patron.
Somehow in the rush of new openings and things to check out, I had forgotten this place that has been a Brunch favorite and a place for Derby and Oaks box lunches in the past. But I had a LO's gift certificate, and thought - Wow, we haven't been there in a while, so we went after a day of working in the yard.
Amber McCool was behind the bar and warmly welcomed us. There were a couple ladies at the bar, and two other tables. The place had a nice lounge-y night time vibe.
I was a happy, happy gal when I looked at the menu and saw the smoked tomato and lima bean soup. This almost has the rich, smoky flavor of chili, and is just as hearty, but seems "lighter" and I love the juicy tomato flavor and the earthiness of the limas.
I also had the Crispy Country Ham salad. God bless a restaurant the understands the way to actually dress a salad - the honey vinagrette just very lightly coated the spinach leaves, and the dressing, poached pear slices and candied walnuts were a great sweet counterpoint to the salty country ham. This was actually my favorite part of the meal!
Hubby had the Roasted Tomato and Goat Cheese Napoleon, which is a Patron classic. There wasn't a bit left, and he rarely spoke after taking the first bite, so I'm assuming it was great! I had the Maine Lobster Pasta with pappardelle, muscles, leeks and larger-than-I-expected pieces of lobster in a savory seafood broth. It was a little bit salty, but not overwhelming, and was quite delicious.
We have a new way to use up leftover waffles after sharing the dessert special. It was an Irish bread pudding - made with waffles instead of bread, irish whiskey, white and dark chocolate and whipped cream. YUM!
Matt was a friendly, attentive, knowledgable server; and overall, the experience made me wonder why we don't go there more often! Thanks to Amber and her staff for a lovely meal!
