THIS is where to go for dinner...

A few weeks ago we had the opportunity to dine out at a few places we had always been meaning to go, (thanks, Ma' Beers for taking the kid!).  We graced the dining room of a centuries old multi-starred inn, and a relatively new restaurant focused on farm-to-table/locavore cooking, (i.e. how a real chef cooks anyway), helmed by one of my favorite chefs in the area: Root.



I had first heard of Root last winter...people I knew were telling me how "expensive" Root was because they had a $12 hamburger...at that time I had a $29 hamburger on my menu, so I just labeled these criticisms as uninformed, and prayed they wouldn't visit, and publicly flay me for approaching the $30 mark with my burger!!!

Then I learned that Rich Larcom was the chef...and I couldn't wait to go. I've dined at some of his previous restaurants, and have even cribbed some ideas along the way.

BUT, work obligations kept me from having free time to dine.  I even did a charity event with Chef Larcom and apologized profusely for not "making the time" to come and eat at Root.  NOW my current work obligations afford me the free time to visit the dining rooms of my colleagues and friends.

I know the chef.  I know the concept.  I know I am going to have a good time...so off we went.

SO, I will not bore or go into the tedium of my meal...the high points: the signature cocktail list is amazing, especially if you are into bourbon (what chef isn't?) or seasonal produce driven libations.  The grilled sugar peas were awesome, as were the entrees.  The best bluefish I have EVER eaten, and another dish I won't divulge...because, as I have already told Rich, I plan on stealing it!  Big, bold flavors.  I can still see and taste many of the dishes from that night...

What Rich and his staff at Root had done when all was said and done was create food memories!  Some new, some rekindled.  I am a big fan and you should be, too if you are caring enough to support your neighbors:  www.Rootnh.com