Chez Albert (Amherst, MA)

Chez Albert- Like most French restaurants outside of a big city, it is one that is always in demand and coveted. This one in particular combines french cuisine with fresh organic food from local farms in the pioneer valley. Nestled on the main street of Amherst, MA it is decadent, with a slight romantic charm. The hustle and bustle of a college town outside reminds the guest of the rare dinning delight that is rarely found surrounded by students. The wait staff is just as carefully chosen as the menu. Hints of well-bred youth, coupled with optimism, and the desire to please. Attentive and knowledgeable, the servers have been trained to receive their guests with the utmost care.   

I was lucky to try their Filet Mignon, Halibut, and the tiramisu.

The filet mignon was cooked to perfection. Practically melting together, it was a perfectly prepared alfalfa raised slice of beef. However, the sauce was on the weaker side than anticipated. It was reminiscent of more of a Zinfandel than a Cabernet, that left me feeling cheated out of what should have been a great triumph. The mashed potatoes and the sauteed leeks helped to liven up the plate, but not enough to spare my deflated feelings.

The flounder on the other hand was spectacular. Truly remarkable pairings of  white wine and lemon saffron butter sauce with encrusted almonds with a side of sauteed spinach and golden yellow potatoes. Light, appealing and completely captured the essence of the Loire Valley.

The Tiramisu was delightfully robust while at the same time maintaining the light fluffiness of the traditional dessert. Strong, assertive, with a hint of a secret that left nothing to want was the best way to end the meal on a high note.

It was a bit more than what I would normally spend, but for a quality meal with fresh produce, and fine service; it is a pleasure that I hope that I will soon try again.  

(4 Stars-****) French Cusine

Chez Albert (Amherst, MA) French Cusine Restaurant- Amherst, MA
178 North Pleasant Street Amherst, MA 01002

(413) 253-3811

Parking- along the street
Recommend making a reservation- Even if you just want to sit at the bar (They get busy quick!)

La Casita Azteca (Easthampton, MA)

After a mid-morning bike ride strolling along the Manhan Rail Trail in Easthampton, MA I was quite hungry for something fresh, local, and yummy! As a girl from Northern California, I have a soft spot for fresh, cheesy Mexican food. Little did I know that I would find just what I was looking for in Easthampton, MA.

I had the Chicken Mole- Full and Rich with lightly shredded chicken that tasted like it fell right off the bone.It was served with freshly diced cabbage and onions with a side of Spanish style rice and simmered black beans with a light dusting of local feta cheese. Jon on the other hand dived right into the 3 Beef Tacos-Rolled in flour tortillas with grated mozzarella cheese. (He worked up an appetite on the bike ride over! :) )Everything was fresh, fresh, fresh and right off the stove warm. Perfect atmosphere to be able to sit outside under the umbrella'd colorful picnic tables with a slight breeze blowing in between the buildings.  

We both also ordered the Iced Tea. It was light and refreshing. Perfect for a hot day. They have 2 different types made in the either black or green tea. Overall- Great service, great food, great experience. I can't wait to go back on a night when they have live music!

Next Time: 

I didn't  get a chance to try their Sangria, but I can't wait till the weather turns and I can take a break from the rail trail to try a glass.
(4 stars- ****) Dine in/ Take out, good for kids, large parties and first dates!!!

La Casita Azteca: Traditional Mexican Cuisine
58 Cottage Street  Easthampton, MA 01027

413-203-5050 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            413-203-5050      end_of_the_skype_highlighting