Tamari: A Fine Feast of Asian-Latin Fusion
Since its grand opening in the summer of 2009, Tamari Pittsburgh in Lawrenceville has established itself as one of the city’s best restaurants and is consistently honored as such in the yearly “best of” lists in the local press. Fusing delicious components of Latin and Asian cuisine, the menu at Tamari Pittsburgh features some of the most unique offerings in the city. Tamari presents a variety of exciting tapas creations, fresh maki and sashimi, and is home to the city’s only robata grill, which is a charcoal-fired hearth used in Japanese cooking.
Featuring amazing food in a hip, modern setting, Tamari is a cozy place to spend a romantic dinner or a fun night out with friends. And in warm months, Tamari is a great spot in Pittsburgh to enjoy the weather on the outdoor patio.
With an ever-changing menu of interesting and exotic offerings to choose from, making a decision at Tamari can be challenging. Fortunately, there is a great selection of microbrews, wine, cocktails and sake to sip on while you peruse the menu. The inspired selection of tapas showcases the creativity of chef Roger Li and includes favorites such as oxtail tortellini with sweetbreads and lobster emulsion ($10), Peking duck quesadillas with serrano hoisin and cucumber ($8), and chipotle tuna tartar with plantain chips ($8).
A selection from the sushi bar is also a tremendous way to whet the appetite for a meal you won’t soon forget. House specialties such as the Tamari roll (white tuna, crab, spicy aioli, scallion and torched scallops -- $16) and Sexy Dragon roll (spicy tuna, crab, eel, and avocado -- $14) are among the most popular maki options on the menu.
If you still have room for an entrée, there are several brilliant creations to consider. Favorites include the paella, with shrimp, octopus, calamari, chorizo, shishito peppers and saffron rice ($22), and the braised duck leg with duck confit, blue crab risotto and watercress ($24). Diners wishing to get a taste of all facets of Tamari’s cuisine might want to try the restaurant’s take on a traditional Japanese bento, which includes seared salmon, California roll, a house salad and chicken robata. Varieties of tasty desserts and after-dinner libations are available to satisfy your sweet tooth following your meal. View the full menu on Tamari's website.
Posted on Mar 2, 2011 by Amanda Ritchie
