Wallsé

West Village
344 West 11th Street, at Washington Street
212-352-2300
wallse.com

Freshly updated on 03/15/08: There aren't many surprises at Wallsé. The food is excellent, each and every time we eat there. The space is simple but elegant, and the service is professional. There were seven of us for a milestone dinner, so it pays not to run through who had what. Suffice it to say we liked everything. Oh, and there was one surprise -- the anticipated quiet dinner for two turned out to be a family party. Thank you Cyn, Ricky, Carrie, Kevin, Jessie and Ben. Very much. Sam(s), we missed you.
OVERALL RATING: Memorable

Originally reviewed on 11/28/06: From soup (chestnut with creme fraiche) to nuts (cocoa coated and served as a post dinner amuse bouche), Wallsé excels. The quiet, minimalist dining room conveys a relaxed, artsy European feel, and the food demonstrates a commitment to perfection, as well as damn good taste. Lobster with peas, mission figs, tarragon, and dill was a terrific starter, as was crab meat with avocado. The ingredients were fresh and the flavors married in harmonious unison. Wiener schnitzel with lemon, striped bass with mashed potatoes and sauerkraut, and roasted cod with bacon and lentils were all outstanding. We don't know which was best – no one was willing to share. Salzburger nockerl, a cloud like souffle/custard for dessert was unavoidable. The cocktails and wine were right on par with everything else. Happy birthday Cyn.
OVERALL RATING: Don't miss it.