It is rare when you have expectations for something and those expectations are met. Even rarer is when those expectations are exceeded. But that was unicornian experience we had at Salar last Saturday night. Major kudos must be doled out to the general manager for assembing a great front-of-house team--our server, Tyler, was knowledgeable about the menu and not only made great recommendations, but he also knew the compostion of the dishes we tried.
The restaurant describes itself as having an " exciting menu of World-Fusion cuisine with strong French, Peruvian, and Mediterranean influences.' They go on to say they have, "an extensive selection of hand-crafted cocktails featuring fresh squeezed juices, fresh fruit and herbs, and only the finest spirits."
Truth in packaging.
We are usually wine people, seriously we drink it 3-4 times a week for dinner, but we had to try one of the cocktails upon the recommendation of Tyler. He suggested a La Pasion for me which Bulleit Bourbon, Sandeman’s Tawny Port, fresh lime, Demerara, passion fruit, cilantro and Chipotle chili powder. Really cool presentation in a low ball glass with a giant sphere ice cube. She had the special of the day which was a frothy Peruvian speciaty.
We shared their Tuna Tiradito which was essentially tuna sashimi with a tangy lime, cilantro and aji pepper sauce. Great portion size.
For dinner my girlfriend again went with the special of the day. See the enclosed picture. It was sea scallops crusted in a red quinoa, served with asparagus on a fresh polenta with a tangy but light sauce. I went with a traditional Beef Saltado which is marinated grilled tenderloin, tomatoes, onions, yellow peppers and spices with potatoes. As you can see from the picture, the chef's take on this subbed in a thin french fry which went great with the dish. Served with jasmine rice, yes that is too starches, but it works. I ended taking half home. The portion size was huge. We finished with a strawberry cheesecake which was a nice sweetness to complement the south american spices and sauces.
The restaurant itself is beautiful. There are two porches, large rooms in the back that could be used for business events, rehersal dinners, birthday parties or any large group party. The bar itself is striking being a large gentle arch shape, and it was full all night. Lighting is subtle and the place has great features like the cascading water wall we sat next to for dinner.
I hope Dayton supports this place. We live in Mason about 35 minutes away --we can't wait to get back and bring friends!