Cajun-Creole at Toulouse Petit, Bon Appetit

As previously blogged, my latest project at work has brought me on an adventure to the coastal metropolis of Seattle, where I spent a couple evenings exploring the culinary sites that the city had to offer.  One evening, my journey brought me to an establishment named Toulouse Petit*, a Cajun-Creole Frenchish kind of place.

After being seated, I immediately noticed that their menu was extensive, and after spending 15 minutes (or more) perusing the booklet, decided to order an appetizer and an entree.  What to order though?  So much to choose from!

IMG_0712First up, the Rustic Duck and Wild Boar Terrine!  I’m always in the mood for delicious meats, and this classic charcuterie sure hit the spot!  It almost reminded me of a firm pate, and was superbly paired with the sweet and sour flavors of the side salad, and relatively neutral flavor of the crostini.  Palatable to the eyes, palatable to the taste.  Good.

Since I’m at a Cajun spot, I have no other choice than to follow up my appetizer with a culinarily authentic main course!  And what better option to pick than a nice, hearty bowl of gumbo!  Toulouse Seafood Gumbo, that is.  Made with housemade shrimp stock, dark mahogany roux, crawfish, shrimp, pacific fish, and housemade andouille.   Continue reading

A Steak Salad That’s Heavy on the Steak?!

A recent work trip landed me in Seattle, which a great city for exploring new restaurants!  My first culinary stop of the trip was at Peso’s Kitchen & Lounge*, a Mexican spot along a strip of restaurants and small shops in downtown.  (It has a huge menu, by the way!)

When I travel, I’m generally not in the mood for heavy meals, so salads are usually acceptable solutions.  At Peso’s, I ordered the Carne Asada “Steak Salad,” which included tomatoes and sweet grilled onions poblanos, fried shallots, corn, and basil, topped with a smoked paprika vinaigrette.  It sounded and looked completely delicious!

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