By definition, Esoteric means something intended for or understood by a small number of people. Before having dinner at the Virginia Beach based restaurant, I read an online review where someone was turned off by them based solely on their use of this word. While this may have been intentional on the businesses part, it didn't bother me because a quick skim of their menu didn't require the use of too much brain power. I had been reluctant to visit due to their attraction to the hipster crowd. I saw that to downgrade them, but so often restaurants with that following serve food that is only aesthetically pleasing (i.e. no real flavor).
Terrapin Review: Flashback to 2016 Virginia Beach Restaurant Week
Terrapin, a self proclaimed supporter of the slow food movement, and a Chef (Rodney Einhorn) who has cooked at the James Beard house, has been high up on my 'must visit' list for longer than I want to admit. My senseless reason for not visiting...fine dining is intimidating.
Mannino's Italian Bistro: Virginia Beach Restaurant Week
Fire and Vine: Restaurant Week 2016
Steak purists have said that if a steak is cooked properly, it doesn't need any extras. They say, additional sauces take away from the flavor of the meat. While my steak was juicy and tender on its own, the emulsion and egg added an extra layer of flavor that I never thought I would appreciate.