Calling all foodies!! I had the pleasure of dining at At Hoc, Thomas Keller’s most recent addition to his restaurant row in Yountville, California. Thomas Keller, famous for his Michelin star restaurants Bouchon, Bouchon Bakery, and The French Laundry, (all within a few blocks of each other) created Ad Hoc as a temporary project in 2006. This “project” turned into a massive hit and a totally different dining experience than one would get at the French Laundry. It’s hearty, comfort food, served family style, but surely better than any family style restaurant you’ve ever frequented before. To set your expectations up front – There is one price fixed menu every day based on what ingredients are fresh and what the chef decides to serve up. We started off with a mixed greens salad dressed perfectly in a champagne vinaigrette. Our main course featured succulent pork medallions served over pan fried broccoli rabe. Next, for the “refresher” course, we enjoyed Landaff – a creamy, buttery, earthy cheese melted on a piece of toast topped with a roasted tomato “jam”. Lastly, for dessert, the chef made individual carrot cake trifles in little mason jars with a side of sweet coconut macaroons. Those macaroons were not just a little after meal sweet. They were probably one of the best macaroons I’ve ever tasted. Irresistible.. certainly a meal I will not soon forget.
