Two of us were lucky enough be invited to sample some fun, new Small Plates at Harvey’s at The Henderson-Restaurant, Lounge & Bar this past Saturday.
Chef/Owner Michael Gilligan explained that he and his wife, Jeanne, have spent the better part of the last year and a half since purchasing the property redoing, refreshing, and repairing the Inn, including replacing broken kitchen equipment – hood, fridge/freezer, stove, oven – everything.
And now that they’re fully staffed and the Inn’s humming along, Chef Michael’s able to focus more of his attention on the restaurant: menu development, ingredient sourcing, events, etc.
Presentation of these Buffalo Deviled Eggs will definitely make you happy. Watch as a glass dome is lifted and smoke used to flavor the eggs billows out.
The new menu is designed to be fun and a little adventurous.
“To dine with us is to eat by whim, free from rules or schedules. It is meant for those who wish to enjoy life to the fullest and pass time with family & friends.”
Prices range from a low of $8 to a high of $18, with an average around $12.
Chef’s She Crab Soup let’s you know it’s there with bold seasoning and plenty of crab.
We especially liked the flavor of the Kokanee Salmon ‘Sashimi’, brought to the dish by Scorched Sesame Oil and Yuzu Dressing.
We found a little magic along with the happy in this Hudson Valley Foie Gras presentation. Just look at that crystal-like Ice Wine Gelée! Chef Michael explained that this was his way of honoring the traditional pairing of white wine with a dish like this.
For me, the Duck Confit was the evening’s star. Not only was the duck cooked perfectly, a bite including all three ingredients added a mild flavor & crunch from the grit cake and sweet from the berry sauce.
We finished the evening’s tasting with a lovely Raspberry Crème Brûlée. If you love Crème Brûlée like I do and have enjoyed it at lots of different restaurants, you’ve probably experienced various custard textures and have a preference. This one surprised me at first, as a little loose, but then I got a scoop of the berries on the bottom along with the custard, and found my happy.
Chef Michael hasn’t forgotten those with dietary restrictions. His new menu is clearly market with Vegetarian, Gluten Free, and Non-Lactose options. See the full Small Plate Menu HERE.
Watch for more fun and happy at Harvey’s with more menu development and reasonably priced “Dinner and a Movie” events, Wine Dinners, and special events like their recent Derby Watch Party.
Harvey’s at The Henderson
201 3rd Ave W
Hendersonville, NC 28739
Phone: (828) 696-2001
