A KC Symphony Concert was on the agenda so Matt and I decided on Trio for an early dinner before heading to the Performing Arts Center. Turned out it was the best possible choice for a number of reasons, aside from it being one of our go-to venues for just about any occasion.
Granted, we were early for the dinner crowd, but as requested, we were able to get an excellent table on the deck overlooking the Plaza and the gorgeous fountain. That’s an achievement since the deck is popular nearly all the time, even when seasonally enclosed; but when it is opened up to the balmy breezes and unencumbered view – well, it’s perfection, and nearly always packed!
I can understand why folks seated there linger, but it’s not just to enjoy the view. As regulars, our cocktails appeared almost before we had them ordered and I was luxuriating in my Cooranbong Martini with bleu cheese stuffed olives and Matt was savoring his Rye Manhattan. Within moments the cares of the day were melting away and we both nearly forgot that we were still on a schedule. Oh yes, the symphony; and we didn’t want to be late.
Luckily, our delightfully efficient hostess had alerted the server Jody to our plans from our reservation notes and he carefully orchestrated our time to assure that we would not be stressed, and definitely not late. While delivering a plate of soft pretzels [which we learned had been house baked that day] with a ramekin of a warm creamy, Fontina cheese fondue, he deftly maneuvered us through ordering dinner and checked on refreshing drinks.
Matt, such a creature of habit, had his usual – a perfectly grilled tenderloin (medium rare) but prepared in the newly revamped menu style with peppercorn crust, bacon scented confit fingerling potatoes, oyster mushrooms, melted leeks – oh, and Maytag butter. He was in meat lover’s heaven!
I couldn’t resist Chef Adam’s special for the evening, Pan-seared Alaskan Halibut with baby beets, asparagus, broccoli, and cous cous. It included a gently spiced Pepper coulis garnish and combinations of textures and flavors was as tantalizing and satisfying as the concert we would enjoy just a short time later. I had to take a picture it was so beautiful! Of course, Jody had also suggested a perfect wine paring – a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc – just the the right crisp fruity counterpoint.
The ambiance, view, balmy breezes, and such friendly caring service – certainly put us in the mood to forget the symphony and hang out for the night, but Jody called us back to the moment with a pleasant time check, asking about our parking plans at the Kauffman. Of course, he had it timed out perfectly for us and then asked if we would like one of the new house made desserts. We both laughed, already completely sated, and declined; so Jody handed us the bill, already prepared so we would not have to wait on it.
And in the end, after a symphony of delicious flavors & well orchestrated service experience – here was another surprise! Cafe Trio offers a 15 percent discount off your meal with tickets for any arts organizations to show support for the KC arts community. Gotta Love that. Gotta Love Cafe Trio!
–Morgan Alan More
