Brandl: Serving Up Innovation

I'm a sucker for dining out, exploring the constant influx of novice restauranteurs who strive to put a new 'spin' on cuisine. So it shouldn't come as surprising that Brandl's tag line "Innovative American Cuisine" reeled me in, hook-line-sinker.

Brandl has been a popular Belmar eatery since 2002, owned and run by Chris Brandl himself. Although the restaurant isn't exactly new, it was new to me, being a rookie resident to Belmar. I'm sure I would have visited Brandl sooner than I did, but the space is slightly hidden in the Belmar Plaza, located at the corner of 9th and Main. I came upon Brandl while I was attending an event
sponsored by Jersey Shore Restaurtant week, and decided to put their 'innovation' to the test.

Walking into the restaurant, I immediately was impressed. A small, but modern space, not overwhelming or noisy, containing only raw elements of the dining experience. It was apparent that I was in a fine-dining atmosphere, but the rustic undertones gave me a relaxed feel. Although there were a few tables set up on the patio for outside dining, I chose to sit inside and was given a table window-side with view of the courtyard plaza.

I'll have to admit, I was a little intimidated by the menu which was composed of only 2 front-sided pages, cleanly listed with rather steep prices. The menu was dominated by seafood dishes (rightfully so, being a few blocks from the ocean), but I decided to go with a traditional meal and order the NY strip steak, served with fries. Not very innovative, I know. But, the meat was prepared perfectly and was topped with a delicious gorgonzola chive butter that excited my taste buds.

My dining partner ordered the pepper crusted tuna served with purple sticky rice, which is in fact purple and sticky, grapefruit salad, and grain mustard vinaigrette. This dish was surely unique and was a great representation of Mr. Brandl's seasoned experience in the food industry.

We did decide to complete our meal with dessert, and I'm glad we did. We ordered the chocolate brownie with basil ice cream. This was my first 'meeting' with basil ice cream, as I only knew Basil existed as a spice plant. The brownie was warm and soft, a perfect ending to a fine dinner. The ice cream was interestingly pleasing, a perfect pair of dessert foods I thought.

Overall, service was excellent, the dishes were satisfying, and the atmosphere was charming. Although the bill was a little high ($75), it was worth paying for well- executed meals and professional, clean service.

- Jeanne Crump