Emma's Eats: Saratoga Restaurant Review

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Want to go to Paris for a great weekend brunch? Well, Ravenous can't exactly give you a view of the Eiffel Tower, but it can certainly offer the charm and taste of a Parisian crêperie. Wander downtown to Ravenous and indulge in a delectable crêpe and side of Belgian Pommes Frites. At 34 seats the restaurant is intimate and cozy. Natural light streams in through the large windows and the smell of crêpe batter and fries fills the air. Looking at the large group of people waiting for tables every weekend, it's hard to believe owners Tina Laino, Francesco D’Amico, and Lauren Wickizer were once worried crêpes wouldn’t be a hit in Saratoga. Ten years later Ravenous is a favorite among locals, Skidmore students, and racetrack aficionados. The food is fantastic and the service is impeccable.
The menu offers a wide range of mouthwatering sweet and savory crêpes and scrumptious Belgian pommes frites with a variety of dipping sauces ranging from the more traditional (aioli) to the exotic (horseradish may). Beer and wine are also served. Tina develops many of the recipes but some are creations of other members of the kitchen. In fact, “Sarah’s Favorite” (chocolate hazelnut spread and ripe, juicy strawberries topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream) is the creation of a Skidmore student.
The crepe batter may be traditional but the fillings are anything from typical, calling upon the flavors of Greek, Italian, and Indian cuisine. In the mood for curry? Try the Taj Mahal (a blend of chicken, apples, cauliflower, onions, raisins, and zesty Indian spices). Personal favorites include the Fruit Flurry (a medley of fresh fruit, a dollop of Greek yogurt, sprinkled with granola, and drizzled with honey), Crêpe Antoinette (apples, pears, cranberries, a touch of brown sugar, a hint of orange zest, and a drizzle of sour cream) and Napoleon’s Choice (a delicious savory crepe filled with scrambled egg, cheddar cheese, and a choice of sautéed mushrooms or broccoli).
During my interview with Lauren she told me that women often come in first and then bring their boyfriends and husbands back on the second trip. Apparently some men view crêpes as too delicate, not a manly-enough food. Ladies, if your boyfriend/husband/man friend is reluctant to accompany you, entice him with one of these more "burly" crêpe options: Texas Tornado (homemade chili and cheddar cheese topped with two poached eggs, sour cream, & scallions) or Mamma Mia (Italian sausage, sweet peppers, onions, and mozzarella). So grab a bunch of friends and go to Paris for the evening (or at least taste it). Treat yourself; you deserve it!