Foodie Diaries - Chef Michael’s

AMBIANCE

From the moment we stepped into Chef Michael’s, we were immediately smitten by the romantic, elegant, atmosphere of this upscale eatery. Soft, warm lighting sets just the right mood in the intimate dining area, decorated in a pleasing, creamy palette, with fish and wildlife décor capturing that unique Keys flavor. There was even a cozy bar with a wide selection of wines that piqued our interest. Quaint and inviting, Chef Michael’s is one of the few restaurants in the Florida Keys operated by its very own chef, and we couldn’t wait to test its reputation as a place locals flock to in order to experience an evening to remember. Executive Chef Michael Ledwith is an artist himself, and an inventive, yet traditional, Chef with a passion for the evolution of food. Having trained in some of the best kitchens in N.Y., Chef Michael traveled to St. Thomas, St. John and Martinique in the Caribbean, honing his skill in fish cookery at top Caribbean Resorts and restaurants. We couldn’t wait to taste the delicacies the Chef had in store for us this evening!

Starters

Tempura Florida Lobster tail with Coconut and Red Curry Sauce
This was hands down our favorite course! The Lobster and curry were a unique pairing. The crunchy texture had a bit of a spicy kick, but it was sweet enough to make our mouth water and whet our appetite for the next appetizer.

Seared Tuna Tataki with Sesame Soy, Wasabi, & Ginger
OMG! Imagine thin, soft, and spicy jalapenos, coated in wasabi sauce for the perfect amount of kick. The flavor was equally proportioned, with just the right zesty taste.

Ceviche and a Half Coconut: Shrimp, Lobster, Citrus Juices and Spice
The presentation was beautiful, featuring deliciously spicy onions and jalapenos. The ceviche is served inside a half coconut “bowl,” making it the best tasting dinnerware you’ll ever experience with its coconut milk goodness!

Entrees

Lamb Rack, Roasted w/ Castronovo Red, Garlic, and Rosemary, Crazy Potato
Flawlessly cooked! The asparagus gave it a delish, savory taste. The soft, moist, melt in your mouth potatoes were crazy good. One of our team wasn’t used to lamb but became a believer after experiencing the unique flavor.

Trigger Fish – Juliette seared with shrimp, scallops, chardonnay butter & toasted almonds.
Can you say chock-full of flavor? This platter delivered a great trio (fish, scallops, shrimp) of thinly sliced, very filling, awesomeness, with a sweet chardonnay butter tickling the taste buds.

Shrimp – “Mixed Nuts” pistachio, cashew & macadamia crusted, served with mango sauce
So crunchy and sweet! This platter was another favorite and the perfect bookend to a memorable evening of flavor and fun.

Dessert

Salted Caramel Brulee Cheesecake
We capped off the evening with some decadent, super soft, cheesecake. It was filled with crunchy goodness, and moist, with a to die for sugar coating glaze.

Carrot Cake
We couldn’t resist this treat, with sinful, crème cheese filling. The presentation was gorgeous, with purple flowers and cut strawberries. We didn’t know whether to fame it or eat it, but eventually chose the latter!

81671 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036

305.664.0640

www.foodtotalkabout.com