Dinner at Cafe Amuse

A few days ago John and I had dinner at Cafe Amuse, a cute restaurant in downtown Palm Springs on Tahquitz Canyon Way. I'd drive past it several times since it opened but for one reason or another had not yet checked it out. Being the Palm Springs Savant, it's unusual for me to be so tardy in trying new dining spots in town. For those of you who read this blog regularly, you know that I enjoy nice restaurants and am quite particular about where I spend my money when I dine out. Without question, my favorite restaurant in town is Copleys on Palm Canyon, but even I need a little variety now and then. So off I went to Cafe Amuse to check out the food and service. A friendly host promptly greeted us with a welcoming smile when we entered the patio area. I was surprised at how considerate the host was as we passed by another table of guests-he took care to show us a pathway that would not disturb the seated guests. Soon a young waiter approached as asked our preference in type of water. When he returned, I noticed his excellent posture and how he held his left arm behind his back as he filled our glasses with water. I watched a few other servers in the restaurant serve in the same style. Good service training is one of the hallmarks of restaurants I usually enjoy. So far so good...

Above: We were brought some delicious warm herb bread, which hit the spot while we sipped on a nice glass of Zinfandel.

The starters, above left: sliced tomatoes, fresh basil with onions and goat cheese, and above right: chilled Vichyssoise soup, which was exquisite on a warm evening.

The entrees, above left: John had the Baked Salmon and above right, I went for the Beef Stroganoff, which had the perfect blend of herbs and flavor. It was made with beef tenderloin, which melted like butter. The service was very good and the food rated well in my book. I would definitely recommend it for dinner. I'm intrigued to go back for breakfast sometime soon!
-Rick Rockhill