The Wilmington restaurant scene always has new and exciting offerings, but that also serves as a reminder to appreciate the places which have stood the test of time. The grand dame of tenured eateries is Caprice Bistro, the classic French establishment which has stood for decades as its neighborhood has changed around it.
The Cocktails Are Divine
I visited a few days ago to blow off a little steam and went a little crazy. That’s easy to do when the bartender hands you the martini list. Before I ever saw my table I sampled both The Frenchie and Marie Antoinette’s Left (named for the champagne flat in which it’s served, reputed to be cast from a mold of the ill-fated queen’s left bosom). Each proved delicious and set the proper tone for the night.
With a good friend across from me and a lovely bottle of Vouvray we dove into the menu and I selected a few of my favorite appetizers. To get the slow roasted pork cheeks which I had missed so dearly in my long absence I had to order the sample plate so I was forced to trudge through escargot in a wonderful garlic sauce and a silky pate so I’m sure you feel sorry for me already.
The Food is Decadent
Caprice is famous for its mussels, and you can’t go wrong with any of the preparations on the menu. For my money the gentle curry sauce is a hands down favorite but you’ll be glad for the briny goodness no matter which sauce you select.
As the weather cools you’d be wise to stop in for the Beef Bourguignon. Hearty by French standards it makes for a wonderful cold evening meal. With mild spices and delicious root vegetables it’s the kind of stew I wish I could make for myself.
The Duck Confit is so delicious I forgot my manners and found myself gnawing on a drumstick as though I’d been served a bucket of fried chicken. And don’t miss the lovely vinaigrette on the salad served beside the duck. I had intended on eating a bit lighter, but one of Caprice’s other signatures is the pomme frites, and I am powerless against them. There may have been a few crumbs left, but I’d be hard pressed to find them.
You Can’t Skimp on Dessert
I think I blacked out for a moment in gastric reverie as our waitress listed my dessert options but I did catch some word of chocolate mousse. Served in three small scoops it wraps up the evening nicely with a rich and thick texture. I’m sure everything else on the list would have been perfect too.
There’s a reason why Caprice remains a constant in an industry which finds itself in perpetual flux. In dozens of visits I’ve never suffered a disappointment, and though I didn’t sample them this time around I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the steak au poivre or the coq au vin (served only as an occasional special). Those are dishes that keep me coming back. And I already can’t wait to go back.
Looking for dining options or take-home options for Valentine’s Day? Try Caprice, or check out our blog post list of amazing pre-fixe menu offerings by our favorite restaurants!
If you’re opting to stay in this Valentine’s Day — we have a blog post specific to at-home activities you can splurge on with your loved ones to celebrate.
