Jardin

We were there early but everyone was happy to accommodate us right away. Our server was very attentive throughout our visit and did a nice job explaining the theme of the restaurant right when she came over to our table. The atmosphere of the courtyard is unique and private. Quieter than I thought it would be right off of E Washington. All of the food we ordered was outstanding and the gluten free parsnip alternative for the risotto dish seemed to have just as much care to it as the regular dish would have received. Overall great experience.

I'm going to think about the meal we had at Jardin at Robinia Courtyard on Saturday for the rest of my life. I can't think of a time when I had a meal that I would rank above this one. This place is THAT special. Now under the direction of executive chef Juan Umana -not Kyle Cozine as Googled, thank you! - (who I believe was in part responsible for one of our favorite food trucks that I stalked throughout the early summer this year), Jardin features a globally-inspired, 100% plant-based menu. I strongly recommend the chickpea paneer, which has a silky, sexy curry interior and a crispy fried exterior. It is sensational. A patient of mine recommended the blue potatoes, and they were great as well. (I lost most of those to my husband.) The quesabirria is clothed in a sumptuous mole sauce and avocado crema, and inside is smoky jackfruit and grilled portobello. I thought I died and gone to Mediterranean heaven with the grilled eggplant, until the spiked sorbet and affogato came, and I realized there were more levels to ascend. I had one of my favorite gluten-free beers (New Grist), then an incredibly cold (note: the slush on the edges) and PERFECT martini, and a complimentary Amaro Lucano aperitif at the finish. Service was wonderful... Very friendly and attentive, the meal was well timed, and we never had to ask for a plate to be cleared for for another cocktail. And even with all of that, I've had meals that cost twice as much. All vegan and gluten-free. I mean. That affogato though! We had the most beautiful alfresco meal here, and I think this place is world class and worth driving for (and even putting on makeup). I can't wait to go back. ** UPDATE 07/29/2023: Went back to Jardin last Saturday and had a sensational meal. The lemon and kalamata focaccia was PERFECT and you have to get it - lightly crisp exterior and cake-soft inside. And we kicked the jar clean of the tomatillo jam (okay, I did.) The chickpea paneer was my repeat performer, and it's as rich and creamy as I remembered. So good. The risotto was the one thing I thought was just good, but husband really liked it. The tempura parsnips it came with were sensational, though, tender, crispy and juicy! I really loved the blackened tofu. I was afraid it'd be dessicated, but it was crispy outside and eggy-tender inside. Exceptional. The creamy sauce was sumptuous and the charred shishito peppers were like candy. I don't drink alcohol these days, but I couldn't resist a sip of my favorite aperitif, Amaro, and the limoncello made in house was non-alcoholic... deliciously refreshing! I left full and happy, without a hint of self-loathing. Next time I focus on the cassarece and the desserts! Unforgettable summer meal in the courtyard. Make time to come here this summer.