We decided tonight to eat in the Oakmont/Verona area for a change of
pace. Using http://pittsburgh.citysearch.com I stumbled on a review of
the Mighty Oak Barrel. It wasn't entirely positive but I liked the
sound of some of the dishes. I then found the following review:
http://www.post-gazette.com/dining/19990820dine.asp and decided to
give it a try.
The review was right, I'd have never walked into this place without
having heard of it. I've seen VFW buildings with more panache. Inside
it was better, more like a place to get buffalo wings and a bottle of
wine, a weird mix of bar and resturant.
However that wasn't why we were there. We came for the food and were
not disappointed... It turned out to be one of the better meals we've
had in Pittsburgh.
(The menu is largely seafood and fine meats. My wife (a former
vegetarian) didn't see much vege-friendly entrees (maybe some pastas)
This may change though, as they are transitioning to the spring/early
summer menu in the next week or two.)
For an appetizer we had the Tower of Tuna. It consisted of sessame
coated, seared tuna with diced cucumber and red onions in layers between
what might have been squares of deep-fried tortilla (very nice and
crisp) with a light wasabi sauce and ginger. $8. A great combination
of textures and flavors, it was an excellent way to start the meal.
My wife ordered the Opah special, a thick slab of Hawaiian fish, with
two spicy thai dipping sauces and an assortment of vegetables. $16 I
went with the seared duck special which featured a sweet plum sauce and
a side of veges and barley. $18 At first I was a bit jealous as Deb's
meal was fantastic (and very spicy), whereas mine seemed a bit too
sweet. However, a few grinds of pepper and some salt transformed my
dish. The duck now stood out above the sweetness and was fantastic.
Since I cook a very good steak at home, duck is becoming my favorite
non-seafood item to order when I'm out. Both dishes were cooked perfectly.
The meal was accompanied by a small house salad, mixed greens some nuts,
a soft cheese (chevre?) and a semi-sweet dressing. A half of a bread
bole was also served. Both were adequate.
We were both pleased with the recommended wines, about $6 a glass.
(Note: they are in addtion to the price of the entree, although the
specials menu doesn't make that totally clear.)
For dessert we had the pistachio cheesecake which had bits of pistachio
brittle sprinkled on top. Wow! Sweet, but not too sweet, the
cheesecake was a perfect end to the meal (and perfect with coffee.)
The brittle added a nice crunchy/carmely twist. The pistachio flavor
wa concentrated in the crust and was not overwhelming. Just enough to
make it work.
The service was friendly and satisfactory. Although again they wouldn't
have been out of place at a wings place. I believe I was called "hon"
by the hostess (who I believe was the mother of the chef/owner.)
We'll definately go there again.
--MarkPittsburgh, PA