Some meals are so memorable; they stay with you forever.
It all started when I took a bite of the Prime Burger. The burger is simply seasoned with kosher salt and coarse black pepper, seared on a flat top to lock in the juices and create a slight crust, then finished off in Fleming’s 1600° broiler. The sizzling burger is then topped with sharp Cheddar cheese and two slices of thick cut, brown sugar glazed bacon that give the beef a sweet and spicy kick. Crisp iceburg lettuce, a thick slice of tomato and chipotle mayo are served alongside so guests can build their burger. Mmm. Now do you see why I’m in love?
This classy establishment has a reputation for a reason. If you’ve rendered me silent during a meal, you’ve done your job well and if I’m bragging about my meal till this very day; I’d say you’ve got a repeat customer.
A few of us were invited out to sample the new small plates and big pours menu. For $24.95, you can enjoy a few exquisite dishes with the finest wines selected from the Flemings 100 list. Why would I refuse? We were seated deep in the cellar in the newly renovated Wine Society Club and shown some stellar technology – the WiNEPAD. This iPad combines your choice of wine with an entree or simply lets you browse wine and perhaps share with a friend. I like that Flemings is embracing technology and social media.
The real fun began when we were seated and given a chance to peruse the menu. With such a succulent menu, how can one decide? I wanted one of everything. Chef whet our palates with a crispy pork belly served with a cherry onion chutney and goat chesse polenta. My steak knife cut through the flesh of the belly like butter and paired up with a chutney it all melted perfectly in my mouth. I think at some point I might have closed my eyes while savoring a bite and was actually a bit sad when my “small plate” was polished off. I could have easily had another bite or two but my next meal awaited.
To finish off the afternoon, I had the filet mignon with the wild mushroom risotto. Tender bites of filet mignon served medium rare on a perfect bed of creamy mushroom risotto. Another dish to die for by Flemings served with a subtle merlot. If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, don’t miss out. Located at Fashion Island, Flemings has a lot to offer. I’m currently salivating over the filet mignon eggs benedict that I spotted on the Wine Country Brunch menu. Flemings, you know I’ll be back for that one.
Until next time, veni, vidi, edi.
