Grand Army, located in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, has quickly become a neighborhood favorite known for its refined yet approachable American cuisine. This review delves into the menu, exploring the highlights, pricing, and overall dining experience to help you decide if it's the right spot for your next meal.
Exploring the Grand Army Menu: A Culinary Journey
Grand Army's menu is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, skillfully prepared and presented. It's not overly extensive, allowing the chefs to focus on quality and execution. This approach ensures freshness and consistency, a hallmark of the restaurant's success.
Starters and Small Plates: A Taste of What's to Come
The appetizers are designed for sharing, encouraging a convivial atmosphere perfect for a group dinner or a romantic date. Standouts often include the roasted bone marrow, a rich and decadent option, and the crispy Brussels sprouts with a perfectly balanced tangy-sweet glaze. The burrata with seasonal accompaniments is another popular choice, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Prices generally range from $12 to $20 for these smaller plates.
Main Courses: A Symphony of Flavors
Grand Army's main courses are the heart of the menu, offering a variety of options to satisfy diverse palates. The dry-aged ribeye is a popular choice, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. For seafood lovers, the pan-seared scallops are a must-try, delicate and succulent. The menu also features thoughtfully prepared vegetarian options, such as a roasted cauliflower steak that's surprisingly satisfying and flavorful. Prices for main courses generally range from $25 to $45.
Sides: Complementing the Main Event
The side dishes are not mere additions but rather carefully crafted components that enhance the overall dining experience. The creamy polenta is a rich and comforting accompaniment to many entrees. The broccoli rabe with garlic and chili flakes adds a vibrant and slightly spicy counterpoint. These sides are priced between $8 and $12.
Desserts: A Sweet Ending
The dessert menu at Grand Army is as thoughtfully curated as the rest of the offerings. The chocolate mousse is a classic done right, rich and intensely chocolatey without being overly sweet. The seasonal fruit crumble, featuring fresh, locally sourced fruit, offers a lighter and refreshing alternative. Prices for desserts typically range from $10 to $15.
Pricing and Value: A Fair Trade-Off?
Grand Army’s prices reflect the quality of its ingredients and the skill of its chefs. While it's not a budget-friendly option, the overall dining experience justifies the cost. The portion sizes are generous, and the quality of the food is consistently high.
Atmosphere and Service: Setting the Mood
The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. The service is attentive and friendly without being intrusive. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to offer recommendations.
Case Study: A Recent Grand Army Experience
Last month, I dined at Grand Army with a group of friends. We shared a selection of appetizers, including the bone marrow and Brussels sprouts, both of which were exceptionally well-prepared. For my main course, I ordered the dry-aged ribeye, cooked exactly to my liking. The overall experience was outstanding, from the ambiance to the service, making it a memorable evening.
Conclusion: Grand Army - A Boerum Hill Gem
Grand Army offers a refined dining experience in the heart of Boerum Hill. While the prices are on the higher end, the quality of the food, service, and atmosphere make it a worthwhile investment. If you're looking for a special occasion restaurant or a memorable night out, Grand Army is an excellent choice. Remember to check their website for reservations and the latest menu updates, as seasonal changes are common.
