Cyrus

It's been a busy holiday with friends and relatives coming by. But the crowning event of the holiday was our January 1 dinner at Cyrus Restaurant in Healdsburg. Although we had heard plenty of rave reviews we had never actually had dinner there. Michael Bauer's 2006 review does a great job capturing the food, service, and atmosphere.

We opted for the five course meal with the addition of a cheese course and we went for the wine pairings (although we did page through the 1,100 bottle wine menu). The food was fantastic and the service was extremely professional. The staff was down to earth and open to questions and conversation.

Upon sitting down, we were told that "we will notify the kitchen that you have arrived." That little touch set a great tone that continued throughout the meal. We were asked about any food "allergies or aversions that we should let the kitchen know about." It was clear that they were willing to do whatever it took to make it a great experience.

There is both a regular and a vegetarian menu and you are allowed to bounce back and forth as you desire. Each dish arrives at the same time with each server carrying one dish. The other servers quietly disappear and one remains to describe the dishes.

Since truffles were in season they also were an additional option that could be added to the meal. The truffles were brought to your table and shaved in front of you. Worth every penny!

At the end of the meal you are presented with a personalized menu along with another dessert in a box to enjoy at a later time.

Here's a brief overview:

Canapes and Amuse Bouche

Course 1:
Him: Silken Tofu with a tasting of Miso
Her: Tuna Loin with Cauliflower and Dashi Gelee

Course 2:
Him: Pumpkin Tagliarini with Truffled Pecorino and Steamed Bantam Yolk with Shaved White Truffles
Her: Roasted Lobster with Daikon and Mandarins, Tamarind Ponzu

Course 3:
Both: Poached Sea Trout with Crab and Uni, Carrot-Ginger Sauce

Course 4:
Him: Lamb Roulade with "Cannelloni" and Parsnip Puree with Shaved Black Truffles
Her: Black Truffle Pot Pie

Cheese Course

Course 5:
Both: Apple Crisp, Mulled Cider, and Creme Fraiche Gelato

Mignardises

Yum!