Dirty French
Duck a L’orange
There are some real homeruns among the restaurants in @majorfoodgroup, and I really like all of them. But my absolute hands-down favorite has to be @dirtyfrench in @ludlowhotelnyc. I make a point to try and go whenever I’m in New York.
And here are a few of the delicious reasons why...
Bread - This is complimentary, and super tasty. It comes with a salty cream cheese spread, but honestly, I prefer it without.
Mushroom Mille Feuille - Sliced royal trumpet mushroom cooked to crispy perfection! I was expecting some puff pastry in there, but it’s 100% pure mushroom, served on top of a curry and corn sauce. The sauce is good, but all you taste is curry.
Pommes Louis - I’m horrible and didn’t get a photo of this, but believe me when I say that they are DELICIOUS! Potatoes cooked in duck fat, served with raw garlic and parsley, and mixed up table-side. PHENOMENAL! I wasn’t sure how the raw garlic would land, but the slight bite to it was really excellent!
Duck a L’orange - This was a special for the night and I’m SO HAPPY I ordered this. The duck was cooked to a perfect medium rare, super juicy and tender. It had a gorgeous layer of perfectly rendered fat that melted the moment it hit your tongue. The skin was incredible as well; it was crispy, almost candied. As for the sauce, it was subtle. It added a delicate orangey sweetness, but still allowed for the duck flavor to shine. Gorgeous.
Chicken and Crepes - Meant for two, this is my favorite dish on the menu! I can’t go to Dirty French and not order this. The chicken is perfectly cooked and wonderfully tender. Just like the duck, the fat is perfectly rendered, and topped with a super crispy skin. The breast has a nice level of salt, which fades into a perfect heat from the chili. The sauce is loaded with tarragon; it reminds me of a bearnaise. Tell me, what isn’t to love? The leg and thigh meat is seasoned using an Asian-influenced marinade, loaded with ginger and perhaps lemongrass. It is a great contrast to the creaminess of the breast dish, and maintains the amazingly crispy skin, too. Can you tell I’m a fan?
Services well rendered
As if the incredible food wasn’t enough, I HAVE to call out two people who absolutely made our evening. First was the host, Royce. Second was our server, Pam. They were so personable and attentive, had such high energy, and kept things upbeat and fun! I could have hung out all night long after the food was done, just to enjoy their company.
If that isn’t enough of an endorsement, I don’t know what is!
