Thursday Restaurant Review: Michael Dean's

Breakfast

:
Oats with Cinnamon, Banana, Blueberries, & Flaxseed Nut Butter ( woohoo I took in about 2,500 ORAC units!)

Lunch:

Watermelon, Salad with Salsa, A Turkey Burger on Whole Wheat and I ended up not being able to finish that vanilla yogurt

Restaurant for Dinner:

Michael Dean’s
Falls of Neuse Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27609

To start:

Rosemary Bread with a tomato vinaigrette for dipping with a glass of Merlot (4,000 more ORAC units !!) . The majority of their wines are from Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley California.

I was surprised at the mellow flavor of this Merlot, it was not sweet nor dry. I think it would make a great table wine but wasn’t what I expected for merlot. The waiter brought out our wines in mini carafes and brought out a second basket of bread. I was definitely in agreement with Momma Mo about reminding your server to not bring bread or at least not a second round if you want to savor your entree and save your waistline!

The bread was delicious though!  It was incredibly moist, dense texture and great flavor with the rosemary. the crust was salty, which I love in contrast to the rosemary! I enjoyed contemplating with everyone whether it was a yeast bread or a beer bread. We couldn’t figure it out even after asking the waiter! We did find out that it was made on site and Micheal Dean’s own recipe!

For my entree I ordered one of their specials for yesterday,
Macadamia Crusted Halibut with Yukka Mashed Potatoes and Broccolini with Mango Salsa

I knew I wanted that as soon as I saw it listed on the huge board next to the host stand! Micheal Dean’s is known for its seafood and I was happily surprised they had halibut! My mom used to make it often and I really enjoy it, however, it is expensive!
This dish was quite perfect! The crispy macadamia crust blended nicely with the mango salsa. The fish was firm, almost steak like which allowed the yukka potatoes and broccoli to really add flavor as well.

My future hubby ordered another special

Local NC Black Drum, served with wilted spinach, jalepeno grits and a banana puree.

I only tasted the puree and the spinach-both were excellent! I never would have thought to add banana to fish so I am excited to maybe recreate that at home!

Michael Dean’s definitely met and exceeded my expectations!

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