Have you ever been asked what your last meal would be? A morbid and flinching question that might infer one is a resident of death row. When I have answered that question in my mind, I have always included shrimp, peanut butter, and some fresh sushi with a hot jello water chaser. But no fruit, never any fruit. However, I am thinking of amending that answer to now include the dish I enjoyed this past weekend while in Boise. This was the second time I have ordered the Beef Stroganoff on the menu at Trillium Restaurant, located in the Grove Hotel on North Capitol St. I have been anticipating this follow up visit for six months, since my first taste of it last summer.
This dish is far from the only stroganoff dish I was familiar with, that being the Hamburger Helper version I fed my son almost weekly during our Andy Griffith and Opie days. So often, in fact, that once he was away at college, dependent on me for the occasional grocery delivery, that he begged: “Please Dad!...for the love of all that is holy, no more hamburger helper…please!!”
I had booked my reservation at Trillium for Saturday night. Knowing that all the frustrations of the Idaho GOP winter meetings I was attending, would be over. This would be my celebration! The drowning of the irritations from debating rules and resolutions with fellow Republicans from around the state who while have good intentions, suffer from the occasional ego and personality worship traits that makes self government difficult. Enough of that, let’s talk about the stroganoff!
The restaurant was not busy for a Saturday night, probably indicative of the winter stormy weather. Within minutes of being seated, I placed my order, sans appetizers, as I wanted all my appetite to be available. I sipped on my water and tried to unwind my mind as my salivary glands danced with anticipation. My waitress for the evening, a young college aged gal named Mo (I could not resist and did ask her if she had brothers named Larry and Curly), with a good sense of humor smiled broadly as she carried my plate towards my table.
Let me try to paint this picture for you: A generous portion of wide fettuccine noodles bathing in an Asiago cheese cream sauce spiked with beef bullion. The protein of this dish is supplied by a hearty amount of beef tenderloin strips that are fork cutting tender, no knife needed, as well as perfectly steamed slices of Portobello mushrooms. A dollop of tart sour cream on top along with a pinch or two of micro Cilantro sprigs makes the presentation colorful. As I write this, I am acutely aware of the saliva building up in my mouth but unfortunately, I already consumed the leftovers last night before slumber. They are not selfish in the portions and both times I have ordered this delicacy, I asked for the doggy bag, but I have no dog to share it with and never intended to even if I did. Somewhat humorously, on the previous summer’s trip, I inadvertently left that take home portion in the mini fridge at the hotel. Not this time…it rode all the way home with me safely and prominently placed where I would not forget it or harm it in any way.
I should not forget to mention the side piece of his dish. One big slice of Parmesan cheese toast to help cleanse the palate and satisfy the crunch craving. Not just a sprinkle of cheese but a total crust to crust thick coating of aged, strong flavor Parmesan. (Somebody please get me a napkin, I am drooling again). In a sophomoric attempt at humor, to friends, I have described such a gastronomical delight as: “Better than kissing a pretty girl!”. Maybe it really isn’t, but they get the point.
Mo asked me if I wanted to see a dessert menu. I replied, “No thanks. I don’t want anything to take away what my taste buds are swimming in right now.!” I paid the tab and slowly walked to my truck clutching the treasure box of left over Beef Stroganoff. $28 was the price, plus $6 for parking out of the snowy weather in the tightest parking space imaginable. So worth it…so delicious ... .so comforting. When can I find a reason to go to Boise again? Thanks Trillium Restaurant and whoever the chef was to place that item on your menu!!! JOB WELL DONE!!
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We welcome comments, however there are some guidelines:
Keep it Clean: Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexual language. Don't Threaten: Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated. Be Truthful: Don't lie about anyone or anything. Be Nice: No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading. Be Proactive: Report abusive posts and don’t engage with trolls. Share with Us: Tell us your personal accounts and the history behind articles.