The buzz: We know, we know, the concept of food and wine pairings isn’t exactly new or novel. However, The Tastings Room is one of the very few spots in town to boast a list of over 50 wines available by the glass. No doubt the result of director Timothy Tjendra’s love for the stuff. Good man.The vibe: Populated by wooden furniture, with a handful of popular booth seats lining the dark walls, the set-up’s decidedly cozy and non-fussy—just the way that Tjendra intended.The food: Quite naturally, the menu comprises European fare dominated by French classics of pan-seared foie gras with orange-cranberry chutney ($16.90) and duck leg confit ($22.90), as well as Italian pizzas (from $12.90), pastas and risottos (both from $16.90). Chef Elvin Chew does a mean slow-roasted crackling pork belly ($22.90) with Tavel Rosé wine-infused apple sauce, which goes beautifully with a 2009 Ata Rangi Crimson Pinot Noir (from $8.60). There’s even the quintessential white truffle salted-fries ($8.90) thrown in for good measure. Plus, every dish on the menu also has several vino pairing suggestions.The drinks: If you’re looking to experiment, go with tasting portions (from $6.60 per 60ml). Alternatively, a full glass starts from a very affordable $10.90 for 110ml. Notable picks include 1991 Cos d’Estournel (from $37.60) and champers like Delamotte Brut NV ($20.60) and Billecart Salmon Rosé NV ($29.90), so even hard-to-impress oenophiles will be able to find something to tickle their fancy. While the selection does tend more heavily to the Old World, we spotted quite a few New World labels, too.Why you’ll be back: It’s hard to argue with the sheer assortment of offerings (both food- and booze-wise). We’re willing to wager that you’ll leave well-fed, or at the very least sufficiently inebriated, and it’s all so amazingly affordable to boot.
