Opening act

First Course

The composed opener — a proper plated dish that earns a spot at the front of a menu.

3 recipes

Glazed & Pickled Vegetables, Romesco Sauce, Seared Scallop & Herb Oil

A veg-forward appetizer of honey-glazed root vegetables and quick-pickled radish with smoky romesco, a single seared scallop, and a vibrant herb oil. The vegetables lead; the scallop punctuates.

Chawanmushi with Scallop, Maitake, and Ikura

Silky Japanese steamed egg custard topped with seared scallop, crispy maitake mushrooms, and a jewel-bright spoonful of ikura. A refined first course built on perfect dashi.

Smoked Walleye with Labneh, Potato Cake, and Harissa

Crispy potato cakes topped with flaked smoked walleye, cool labneh, and harissa oil. A refined first course that balances smoke, heat, tang, and crunch in every bite.