This past week I celebrated my friend Christina's 32nd birthday with a group for dinner at Macke's.
We started with beverages (I had some bubbles) and then moved into a heavy appetizer rotation that included: Seared Scallops with a bruleed peach, candied Benton's Bacon and creamed Kim Chee; Lobster Corn Fritters; Jumbo Lump Crabcakes with saffron, pineapple compote and Paprika Oil; Butter Bean Hummus; Yazoo Pale Ale Battered Shrimp with a local tomato aspic and House-Made Mayo. All of the appetizers were delicious with special props going out to the Butter Bean Hummus and the House made mayo that accompanied the shrimp. Mmmmm....
Next we took our try at main courses. I spilt the entree special with my friend Ava Kay....Tarragon Crusted Halibut plated over a crab risotto in a golden tomato broth. It was phenomenal. Everyone else also loved their entrees that included salmon, scallops, and pork cheeks.
One thing I love about Macke's is that with most of their entree's they offer half portions-- perfect for those who love amazing food but also love fitting into clothes. :)
Most of us were pretty much done and done after entree's but our side of the table decided to splurge on the caramel apple creme brulee'-- AND I'M SO GLAD WE DID. I will say that it had not quite set properly but the taste was so robust and spot on that it could have come in an IV bag and I would have been fine with the presentation and consistency.
Some Nashville foodies claim the more posh places like City House, Tayst, Margot and Watermark to be the best-- but not me. I'll take friendly, family-like service, precise flavor profiles, and fresh ingredients any day over a pizza with an egg on it. (and don't get me wrong, I love eggs)
One thing to note: Macke's does have a full service bar, however, they don't have an actual BAR at which to sit so drinks after work won't work so much here.
Another side note: Unlike speakeasy's that purposefully make their establishments hard to find, Macke's has made their establishment hard to find without trying. It's located in Grace's Plaza in Green Hills where the old Davis Kidd used to be and across from the Davidson County Clerk's office. (I know, weird).
Follow them on twitter: @Mackesgourmet
Oooh, thanks for the review. I've actually been meaning to go there for awhile now, but keep forgetting about it. I'm officially putting it on the list. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYes Blonde Mule....do it. I will say it's a little stale (think Front Porch for ladies tea but well worth it).
ReplyDeleteThis does sound delicious and I look forward to trying it. I would love to hear more about the tomato aspic portion of your meal. Can't say I've seen that served in a long while, or had it in recent memory! And if you need some homemade mayo, holler. Cheers!
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