"The Bywater is one of my favorite places in the County. So, when I saw there was a new James Beard nominee there, I knew I'd be trying it on my next trip to Nola. On a Main Street through the Bywater: it's in an unassuming house that one could easily miss. They start you by intention at the bar and then move you to the dining room. The canapé was a drink: Campari, green tea infused rum and of course St. Germaine. No grapefruit but tasted like drinking one. I had the house martini named L'apercu. I am not sure what made it taste so unique, but it was smooth and delicious. So, with this opening sketch it became apparent that the bartender is a master. I later had a St. Germaine Spritz which was equally excellent. The multi-course menu included some scrumptious tarts, and a griddle cake with butter that was fermented for over 100 days, as it's mixed with Camembert cheese. And I dare say, I have never seen a chef enjoy so much puncturing a cheese souffle and pouring hot cream into it. But my favorite dish was the Caviar, Potato and Milk Bread: it was just a delightful mix of flavors. Overall, the experience reminded me of Bastion which I also gave the rare 5 stars."
