Cru Uncorked

Mr. H and I celebrated my birthday a few weeks late, and he surprised me with dinner at Cru Uncorked in Moreland Hills.

Fine-dining French in a château-like setting, it's quite unlike any other Cleveland area restaurant I've seen. Starting with a very grand entrance.

With several separate, cozy dining rooms and fireplaces galore, it was warm and inviting on a chilly winter night.

While the interior was elegant and high-end, I'd also like to go back in the warmer months and take advantage of the outdoor terrace seating.

As we settled in and placed our order, an amuse-bouche arrived at the table. Which is always a pleasant surprise and a nice way to kick off any fine-dining experience.

We decided to share a dish they are becoming known for, the Seared Foie Gras Preparation (MP) with seasonal accoutrements. That night's included a pear and luxardo cherry sauce. Rich, decadent and it spread nicely on the two types of bread served.

We also shared the Escargot Cocotte ($16) of braised snails, forest mushrooms, tarragon, pearl onion, bacon, and garlic. This combination of flavors was unlike other escargot I've had in the past, and we really enjoyed it.

I ordered the Halibut ($48) with sauce verjus, golden raisins, capers, marcona almonds, and pommes puree.

Mr. H got the Potato Scaled Snapper ($45) with citrus rosemary crème and melted leek fondue.

Beautifully plated and both really nice fish dishes, we were really happy. But as you can see, the price tag is steep. The same quality fish and presentation can run you at least $10 less in other great Cleveland restaurants.

The portions are not huge (but were appropriate), and the dining experience is not rushed, so we had room for dessert! Mr. H did not care for the pudding-like texture of his Apple Verrine ($14) with white chocolate caramel crème, apple confit, almond crumble, warm caramel sauce, and green apple sorbet. However, the tableside presentation was fun to watch. I had the Chocolate Stone ($12) with dark chocolate mousse, caramel chocolate cremeux center, and crème fraiche ice cream. Which really did look kind of like a river rock!

Service was some of the best I've had in Cleveland, and we enjoyed our craft cocktails as well. I'm sure that the wine list would prove to be full of fabulous options.

It's just across the street from Flour, and they offer complimentary valet parking.

For the price-point and setting, this should be reserved for a special occasion. It was certainly a special meal, and felt quite birthday treat-worthy.

Cru Uncorked
34300 Chagrin Blvd.
Moreland Hills, OH 44022
(440) 903-1171