Monterey Bay Fish Grotto

The Order: Dirty Martini (Hendricks Gin), Calamari Appetizer, Branzino, Brussel Sprouts, Potato Au Gratin, Truffle Fries

Pulled in the short drive to be greeted by a smiling valet, handed them the keys as they pointed me inside. The elevator had already been called to take me to the Restaurant on the top floor. The ride up was about 11 stories with the final 7 or 8 being a great view of the city. Once the doors opened, I was greeted by a large open room with a ton of sunlight. I went to the hostess stand where I was led to a table right along the windows to get a great view overlooking Pittsburgh. The drink menu had quite a large range of drinks, I stuck with my usual though, ordering a dirty gin Martini this one made with Hendricks. It was subtle on the olive and strong on the liquor, just how I like it. The table split a plate of Calamari which was light and crispy topped with parmesan and herbs, served with a light lemon-garlic aioli all of which tasted great. There was also complementary bread with chardonnay butter that was divine. Not sure how to make chardonnay butter but it is now a must find recipe for me. I ordered the Branzino which came Mediterranean style, cooked with black garlic aioli, roasted tomato, thyme, Chardonnay butter, and capers. The fish was light and flaky yet full of flavor. The garlic aioli and chardonnay butter worked together in unison while the capers and tomato elevated the dish to a new level. Truffle Frites with black garlic, parmesan, and black truffle were the first side ordered. Think elevated French fries and that what these were, amazing flavor and presentation of a light side that won’t steal the show but also won’t disappoint. The Potatoes Au Gratin were chunked potatoes in oil, butter, and cheese. What’s not to like, right? While I prefer my mother’s version of this dish where she thinly slices the potatoes, this restaurant made a flavorful version that competes. The final side we got were the Brussel sprouts which were flash fried and then seasoned in sweet soy, chili, orange, and lime. Brussel Sprouts are my go to dish at a nice restaurant when in need of a side and this place did not change my mind on this one bit. Get the Brussels if you’re at a restaurant, trust me. This place has it all, a kick ass view, ambiance, great food and drinks, great staff, and is all around a top tier restaurant, most certainly one of the best in the city.