In less than one month, the space that once held Cafe Continental quickly transformed into 43 North, a Muramoto-backed restaurant that serves contemporary American cuisine. The space is darker with an elegant, yet simple, decor, and I would recommend wearing business casual or better (though you could get away with dressy jeans) and reservations, especially on Friday and Saturday.
Dinner is divided into first course, second course, main course and cheese and desserts. With small portions in each course, you’re supposed to order several plates, but be forewarned of a likely expensive bill (mine was $108).
I tried the foie gras terrine and braised lamb from the first course. I was really impressed by the rich flavor of combining foie gras with blueberries and bread crumbs. The lamb was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and it came with a cauliflower puree that made for a tasty sauce (intentional or not).
I did not order anything from the second course list, but the French onion soup was tempting.
From the main course I ordered the poached lobster and tasted the beef strip loin. The lobster was slightly cold and really small but nonetheless good. I could not stand the celeriac cole slaw it came with (it was probably prepared well, I just don’t like that flavor). After I ate the lobster in five minutes, I was still starving.
Meanwhile, the beef strip loin was very good. The hint of horseradish that was added made for a nice touch. Sadly, the mashed potato-garlic puree also was a bit cold.
The bill came with a few squares of chocolate (awesome) and some packaged dessert cake, which I haven’t tried yet (saving it for later). That made for a pleasant surprise.
Side note: We were the first in the restaurant and of course were seated next to the window facing King Street, though the hostess made up some reason that it was more spacious to sit there (not to attract more customers, which is the real reason). The next group that came in was seated right next to us, despite every other table available.
43 North also has a full bar and an average-sized wine list. It’s open from 5-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
When Peppino’s closed on Dec. 23, 2009, rumors circulated that its successor would open in early 2010. As I walked by the building over the past few months, I’ve noticed the interior remodeling has been extensive, which may be the reason for the delay in opening.
