When Palate Food & Wine first opened last May, I thought the restaurant was located in a mall. For those of you (who like me) thought it was located INSIDE the Americana at Brand, the restaurant is actually a few blocks PAST the mall (from the134 freeway). It's on the right side (on Brand blvd) in between Garfield and Chevy Chase Dr. Just look for the Mazda dealership and you're very close.\r
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What about the food? My husband and I loved it... so much that we ate there two weeks in a row. Chef Becerra was warm and inviting... like we were enjoying a meat at his home. Our favorite server was the charming Monica. Just like Chef Becerra, she made us feel comfortable and very welcome. \r
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During our first dinner at Palate, our table was next to where Chef Becerra was expediting orders... which is absolute HEAVEN for me, except my back was to the chef and kitchen! My husband kept ""oohing"" and watching as Chef Becerra was finishing the plates before sending them out to diners. I made sure I had the better view on our second visit.\r
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What we ate: Homemade butter with radish slices and fleur de sel, Pickled Persimmon $3, Porkfolio with Grape Leave Mustard $12, Potted Salmon Rillette $5, Short Ribs (with Pomme Puree) $19, Pork Belly (with Sweet Potato Hash) $17, Young Rabbit with Roasted Grapes $18, Scallops $12, Crostini with Eggs topped with Shaved Black Truffles, Cheese Course: (Puits d'astiers,Brillat Savarin,Epoisses) $12. Photos on MyLastBite!
Pros: Inviting atmosphere and cool fromaggier station!
Cons: I wish it was around the corner from my house.
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