Every now and then we return to Commonwealth Gastropub (http://www.commonwealthgastropub.com) as Samuel seems to enjoy it, and so do we.
We were invited by friends last night and it was a foodie extravaganza. We started off with one of our favorite treats the LEMON FRIED OLIVES and had to order a second plate. We still can't get Sam to try these despite the fact that he likes lemons, olives and fried things. Any suggestions?
It was happy hour, so drinks were in order, which was a good idea as when we finally decided on a wine, they were out of almost all the reds we asked for. Avoid their mediocre Pinot and head for the Spanish or French options (if they are in stock). We finally had the Kermit Lunch Cotes du Rhone (still billed as Grenache 2006 on the menu, even though it is a 2008 blend). which works pretty well, although is not a huge wine for monster beef dishes; maybe the Zin would be better.
We also tried the HOUSE CURED BUTCHER BOARD which had dried lomo, prosciutto, spicy Canadian salami and duck rillettes. the rillettes were nowhere to be seen, so we had to ask for them. The platter is nice, but it seems a bit pricey for what you get. Go for the always superb SCOTCH EGGS with 3 dipping sauces as well as the superb SHRIMP with THAI CHILLIES & Extra Virgin olive Oil; don't fret the chilies, they are super mild. Beef here is a great choice as they get their meat from Bassett Farms in Virginia and the Grilled Marinated BEEF KEBABS were juicy and tender.
Samuel loved his burger and chips and I too adored the UNCOMMON Burger, which changes nightly and was stuffed with Blue Cheese & Caramelized onions last night--the meat was juicy and the taste of it all divine. The chips are great too.
Speaking of beef, the Grass fed NY Strip was tender and tasty too and the Lamb Burger with green Sauce and Halibut Fish special also got high marks.
As if we were not full enough we tried several desserts and they were all yummy from the CHOCOLATE PUDDING to the STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING (Will always switched the whipped cream for Ice Cream, although it should be in Creme Anglaise!) and the simple yet tasty LEMON TRIFLE with BERRY SAUCE which sits parfait-like on a tasty thick shortbread-like cake.
