Drew's Bayshore Bistro, Keyport NJ

[Tom D]

Dinner at Drew’s is always special and last night was no exception. In fact it was very special.

While looking over the menu we munched on a couple of warm rolls with olive oil, butter is also available.

Decided on going the salad route for starters. A special Autumn salad was a treat. Mixed greens, red and yellow beets, roasted pumpkin, toasted pumpkin seeds, goat cheese, all brought together with a maple apple cider vinaigrette.

Also had a Southwestern Caesar Salad, grilled heart of romaine, roast poblano & tomato salsa, bbq croutons, queso blanco, red chili Caesar dressing. A signature salad that always pleases.

We were very fortunate to also taste a couple of additional items and they were sensational. A hunk of Foie Gras was sweet, tender melt in your mouth goodness and came with a sweet fruit relish flecked with chili’s to add additional complexity with some heat. Just sublime. Also sampled the St Louis style wild boar ribs that came with a pomegranate chili glaze and cheese cous cous. This also was delicious.

Entrees were Braised Beef Ribs Bourguignon with mushrooms, roast shallots, applewood smoked bacon, natural jus, smashed potatoes and mixed vegetables. Great mix of flavors and perfect with the cool weather. DW had the NY Strip Steak which was a perfect medium rare, with a flavorful crust of spices and topped with horseradish infused butter. Also came with a rich potato gratin. Wife commented this was one of the best steaks she has had in some time and will make a great lunch today.

Very full but always room to taste dessert, we split a Pear and Cranberry Crisp with a large scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream. Great way to end a feast. Service from Tara and staff was great on this busy Saturday night.

A 2004 Di Lisio Shiraz was a perfect match for the hearty food.

If you have not been, give Drew’s a try. You will not be disappointed.

http://bayshorebistro.com/index.html

[Lilija]

I've been meaning to comment on this. I haven't eaten there in awhile, so I have no current information to add, except it's always been consistently excellent. I don't know Drew, but my husband and I are friends with a close friend of his, that helps the restaurant out sometimes. Just found out today that he was nominated for a James Beard award, best chef for Mid-Atlantic.

To that, I say AWESOME! Go Drew! He's a hard worker, and puts his all into the place. It's great to see a great little local joint soar so high, despite all the odds (not the least of them being Keyport politics...)