This week, we dined for the second time at this little gem of a neighborhood bistro in South Minneapolis. First Course is described on its website as “a little bit of Soho, ‘oh so close to home’, with its casual yet chic decor and its sophisticated yet comforting style of contemporary American cuisine.”
I beg to differ.
Although, I do love the decor and the cozy ambiance.
But, for the most part, I’d describe the food more as Mediterranean. Don’t tapas, cheeses, antipasti, olives, pizza, pasta, olives and seafood all scream Spain, Italy and the south of France? It does to me. And it sings heaven.
But there are a few things that are uniquely American about First Course. For example, the nice array of craft brews on tap. Quite a selection for a restaurant with maybe a dozen tables:
Many of the wines, too, are Mediterranean in style. You’ll find some unique, yet affordable ones by the bottle and the glass. There are also bubblies, a rosé and some ports. And Tuesdays are half-price wine night – by both the glass and bottle!
On our first visit, we ordered a few small plates and thoroughly enjoyed some Mini Burgers {with white cheddar, tomato and chipotle aioli} and some Beef Skewers that we thoroughly enjoyed.
The menu changes often with featured specials every day. This week, I chose a the Pizza of the Day:
prosciutto, smoked mozzarella, olives, san marzano tomato sauce and red pepper flakes
Sounds good, no? I was honestly very disappointed by this pizza. The sauce was way too sweet, I could barely taste the mozzarella, And the prosciutto was too think for my tastes. There wasn’t much flavor either. The best part? Picking those oil cured olives off the pizza and popping their salty goodness into my mouth.
However, this is the second time Rob ordered pasta and he was once again pleased:
Linguine with prosciutto, sun-dried tomato, garlic, basil, olive oil and parmesan
Nothing was left on that plate when Rob was finished, nor was there with the last pasta he ordered, which was off the specials/features menu.
We love the little bar here and were lucky to get a seat at it both times. It is small enough, though, that if you plan to go at prime times on the weekend, it’s worth making a reservation on Open Table.
This is a place that I’d love to meet with girlfriends for a glass of wine and some small plates. The premise of “First Course” is that it’s a place to come to relax to kick off your evening or to dine on multiple courses.
Where do you like to start your evening when you are going out to dinner or for a night out with friends?
Cheers~
Carrie
Season It Already! 