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 Intro
Early this season the new management at the Jared
Coffin House announced Phil and Elizabeth would
the featured entertainment for their main dining
room. We had danced to the music of this talented
couple for years at the Harbor House. How would
this team work in a formal dining setting? On
a Saturday night in mid July we visited Jared's
and had one of the most memorable dinners of the
summer. The setting is elegant, formal, yet relaxed,
the food was very good, a bargain by
standards, and the evening of music incredible.
To our delight we recognized other patrons who
sought out the music Phil and Elizabeth sing and
play --and we were encouraged to dance. Where
else can this happen on the Grey Lady?
Ambiance  |
The
Jared Coffin House needs no introduction to any
one who has ventured to . A historic landmark
in a prime location in town, guest rooms here are
always in demand. Outside in good weather are umbrella
covered tables for casual dining. In addition, the
Tap Room, a dark paneled bar with a number of polished
wooden tables serves lunch and dinner. The dining
room, located on the main floor, is entered after
passing through a beautiful hall and two charming
sitting rooms. The flowered drapery, carpeting,
large framed pictures and lamps create a formal
setting, quite different from the casual tap room
below. Wonderful breakfasts are served here daily,
recently featured by the Phantom Gourmet. In the
corner, this evening, Phil was playing the key board
as we arrived and Elizabeth was about to sing. As
the waitress brought us cool drinks, we knew this
evening would be memorable.
Food |
There
are four choices listed in the set menu for appetizers
and entrees. One of our choices were six oysters
on half shell, with chipolte cocktail sauce, surrounding
a small glass of refreshing sherbet. Not only were
they delicate and delicious, but the ice was a tart
finish, a delightful palate treat. The colorful
red and yellow Gazpacho with cucumber relish and
garlic crisp was attractive to the eye and excellent.
The pan roasted Atlantic salmon was served with
a garlic potato crust and sun dried tomato vinagrette,
which was very good. The grilled tenderloin of beef
with a bacon and jack cheese potato rosti and cabernet
sauce was extremely tender. The mixed berry flambe'
served over vanilla ice cream and white chocolate
blueberry mousse were huge bowls, made to satisfy
all sweet tooths. The menu for each week changes
and posted in the weekly paper, as well as outside
the restaurant, helpful since the range of choice
is narrower than other restaurants. The general
price offers very reasonable rates for
a fine dinner.
Other Observations:
We were
hesitant to put this restaurant to the test, comparing
it to others which are not serving meals throughout
the day. We also did not know how the style of
music would fit into a dining situation where
the food and entertainment might actually conflict.
Our reaction was total surprise. The generous
meal is very good, including vegetables which
are often extra charges at restaurants about town.
We urge those patrons who have been searching
for dinner combined with music to check out Jared's.
Elizabeth's wonderful voice has only improved
with time, perfectly balanced with Phil's harmony.
Their schedule varies so check with the management,
but don't miss this unique dining opportunity.
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