Reviews for Depot

04/14/2024 - MenuPix User

04/02/2024 - MenuPix User

03/15/2024 - MenuPix User

12/05/2023 - MenuPix User

09/16/2018 - Jeffrey Paul McMorrow
How do I begin when the superlatives are so without end?

The manager/proprietor, Nancy Gorshe, personally greets you as you come in the door, seats you, informs you of the night's specials in captivating detail, takes your beverage order and then introduces you to your server, who maintains the magic until you depart. My server was Laura, who, along with at least three other attentive staff, took complete care of my needs without being asked. The executive chef/proprietor, Michael Lalewicz, assisted by another chef, did all of the meal preparation. Without more, the people make this place one of a kind.

But there is more! The place is a charming, cozy spot that makes one feel right at home. One may sit at the bar or tables with the room capacity well under fifty persons. With this arrangement, a patron is never without attention from someone, and to me, excellent service is the main reason I dine out at all. The wood tones and lighting are perfect, and someone even ensured that the great choice of music was at the perfect volume to permit conversation while still being audible. That's an important but often overlooked touch.

I really enjoy dining out at a restaurant like this that permits me to order several different courses and enjoy them one at a time. Since I was in the Northwest, I ordered a bottle of the Hogue Merlot out of the Columbia Valley, WA. The price was a steal at only $26, and it was worth every penny, complimenting everything I ordered.

My first course was a dish called the Artichoke Frito featuring Fried Artichoke Floweret’s served with traditional Spanish Almond Romesco Sauce and Olive Mix. It was so good that I had to pace myself to keep from devouring it like some salivating, wild animal. It was utterly fresh, seasoned just right and was gone in no time at all.

Despite my original thought of ordering the Clamshell Railroad Clams Chowder that looked divine and ample on the tables next to me, I took Laura's suggestion and ordered the Mediterranean Salad featuring Spinach, Arugula and Napa Cabbage tossed with Honey Mustard Dill Vinaigrette topped with toasted Pistachios, crumbled Feta Cheese and Grape Tomatoes. I think the ingredients say it all, and I'm certain that the most enthusiatic salad lover will know that she came to the right place with this dish. Of course, the freshly-baked bread was the perfect companion.

As I said at the beginning, Nancy informed me that there were specials that evening. Since this is Salmon Country, I didn't hesitate to give that a try even though I have really never been a big fan. Ha! This was so good, it was like dying and being born again into some kind of PISCEAN HEAVEN! I got out of my seat, approached Michael, shook his hand and honestly exclaimed, "This is the best salmon I have ever had!" It, the mushroom sauce, mashed potatoes and string beans were so good that I decided to save most of them for breakfast this morning. Truly peerless, and I ain't no kid!

I ended my mouthgasm for the evening with the peach cobbler a la mode and fresh-brewed coffee. Again, there was nothing average about them. The coffee was served in a large, steaming mug, so I topped out at two and simply inhaled the cobbler. I had all of this and was there for just over an hour. Time flies when one is really enjoying himself, and there was no going to bed hungry for this very satisfied customer.

I'm an ardent foodie, travel all over this country and, within reason, seek the finest restaurants in both big cities and small towns. My experience convinced me that here was an establishment intent on serving the best food available, putting it in the league of top tier restaurants to be found anywhere. However, what pleased me most was that I was first here in early August, but I had mistakenly made a reservation for the following day. I went away disappointed when all the good tables were reserved. Not to worry, people; this place made it up to me in grand style!

If you're in the area, don't even think of passing up the chance to eat at The Depot. Nancy, Michael, Laura and company will make you glad you did!