Thanks to all of you who replied to my comparison request on Canlis, Campagne, and Kaspar's. Dave and I ended up celebrating his birthday at Kaspar's... (which was pretty much tied with Campagne for the kind of atmosphere/food/experience we were looking for). Here's how our evening was spent: We began with two excellent glasses of red wine - a Merlot from Chateau St. Michelle, which, although good, paled in comparison to McCrae's Tierra del Sol, 1995 vintage from the Spokane, Washington winery (with a unique, peppery finish). I had Kumimoto oysters on the half shell for an appetizer (excellent); Dave had the Japanese "antipasto" including crab sushi, spring roll, and rare-grilled ahi tuna with a light peanutty dipping sauce. Each of us had a Caesar salad, and were equally glad we hadn't chosen to share one, since they were, in both our opinions, the *best* Caesars we'd ever had in any Seattle or Portland restaurant... not too lemony, garlicky, or oily. Just... superb. Came with chunks of anchovy for me; their "croutons" are diced, lightly fried and still warm potato chunks... an interesting and tasty alternative. Entrees were Roast Muscovy Duck with a pear confit and grilled potato wedges; and Tenderloin Filet topped with herbed chevre, mushrooms, mashed potatoes that I swear were flavored with sweet pickle juice (!~?~odd but tasty` ?~?~!), sweet onion rings, and slices of summer squash. Dessert was a creme brulee (to me, this tasted more like too-sweet frosting, very little custard/egg consistency, and topped with way too many nuts) with a birthday candle and "happy birthday" written in dark chocolate around the outside of the plate; I had still-warm (freshy deep-fried) darkly spiced pumpkin filled "ravioli" dusted with powdered sugar and served with a scoop of praline ice cream (reminded me a bit of beignets). All this for barely over $100... along with outstanding service (consistently attentive without being obsequious). An enchanting and savory evening, all told! Thanks again for your recommendations... we certainly and most heartily agree! Relaena and Dave We'll give you a report on Campagne for my birthday in February.
Seattle, WA