Park Cafe

One of the things I was most excited about in moving back to  my 'hood' (Richland/Cherokee Park neighborhood) is the close proximity to one of my favorite restaurants on the planet. Unfortunately, due to a hectic schedule and remodeling craziness, I haven't been able to get there much since moving back. I'm referring to (the always fabulous) Park Cafe.

The goat cheese brûlée with balsamic syrup and local honey is light and lovely.

But, on this Friday night when my super-sweet husband said he wanted to take me out to dinner (at the place of my choice), I got the chance to go and relish in old favorites as well as a few new specials. Since I lived in this neighborhood previously for many years; I was a former regular, and a huge fan of Willie's cooking. (He's also the genius behind Eastland Cafe and the new Pomodoro East) Tonight was no different. The flavors were fantastic and the atmosphere is exactly what I want at the end of a work week-- relaxing!

One of my all-time favorite dishes, their chorizo stuffed dates wrapped with Benton's Bacon served with Marcona almonds in a tangy marinara.

If you go looking for libation, there's no shortage (try their champagne and ST Germain cocktail). What we wanted was something fresh, but not too sweet. Found it in their 'Strawberry Splash', a mixture of Ketel One vodka,  muddled strawberries and soda. 

Porcini dusted tenderloin with four cheese ravioli, truffle sweet pea puree and brown butter.

Special of the night: $9 burger topped with fried green tomato, pepper jack cheese, special house sauce and pomme frites.

If you're looking for a low-key place to enjoy locally sourced ingredients combined and cooked to perfection, this is the place to go. The best bartenders and servers are icing on the cake at one of the true neighborhood treasures in this part of Music City.  

I would love to hear what YOUR favorite neighborhood restaurant is, and what you suggest ordering there? Let me know with your comments, and don't forget to follow the Southern Sophisticate!