NOW CLOSED...Formerly:
Though "new American" may not conjure up a mental spread in the same way that "pan-Asian" does, chef Allen Sternweiler gladly demonstrates his interpretation of the concept through a variety of unexpected ingredients and fashionable dishes.
So picture this: creative concoctions like charred duck breast with oxtail sauce, sweet and sour beets and endive confit; rabbit loin stuffed with rabbit sausage and roasted prosciutto over dried plum risotto and sage jus; and sauteed prawns wrapped in smoked bacon with sour cream sauce, horseradish mashed potato and leeks. Trained servers eagerly suggest pairings from the lengthy and extravagant wine list, though cocktail hounds should opt for half-price martinis on Wednesdays.
Nestled in the heart of the Gallery District, Allen's Cafe adeptly mimics neighboring showrooms with its expansive wooden floors, clean white walls, strong lighting and perfectly-angled photographs. The sprawling space seats 150, double for a cocktail party. Customized private functions are welcomed in both the lounge area and adjacent banquet room.
Make sure you're heavy in the wallet before joining the business-executive crowd; at $25-$40 per entree, prices are steep. But savoring Sternweiler's creations while basking in the eatery's soothing setting is worth the splurge, even just once.
Allen's is set to close August 18th.
Reviewed By: Carly Schwartz
