The Inquiring Diner: Club dining in Sequim
Published 1:30 am Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Those who dine at Donald Trump’s exclusive Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach Florida have been in the headlines, and not because they are raving about the food. I’m sure the grub is great, but the opportunity to eavesdrop on national security discussions is, I suspect, a larger draw.
Membership restaurants are becoming more and more popular — even in Sequim — so I thought I would give our most prominent “members only” dining spot a try.
Simple in concept and décor, there is a feeling of airiness about the place. And every table is equally desirable. Some even sport wide umbrellas adding a touch of intimacy for families and couples.
The fare is mostly comfort food with origins in the American heartland including strong tributes to the Midwest, the Southwest and the deep-fried traditions of the South.
The exceptions to this traditional fare are two dishes that pay homage to the cuisines of Italy. Nineteenth century Naples is well represented by several combinations of cured meats and cheeses served hot on unleavened, crisped flatbread.
I chose the Chicken Caesar Salad — gluten-free without the croutons (and they did look delicious!) I was somewhat disappointed that the menu didn’t clarify that this dish is “Italian” only in the sense that it was created by an Italian, Caesar Caradini, for the patrons of his Tijuana, Mexico, restaurant.
It was a delight! A large portion of roasted chicken breast, a generous mount of Romaine lettuce, bountiful Parmesan, dressing with only the faintest hint of anchovy and an untraditional addition of cherry tomatoes.
A full range of beverages is available, including most soft drinks (free refills, no restrictions) and both bottled and local water drawn from a deep-well aquifer. Unfortunately, there are apparently no plans for serving beer or wine.
I chose a root-derived carbonation drawn fresh from its own tap.
One remarkable aspect of the service pieces is the clear dedication to protecting the environment. By Northwest standards, every item is recyclable. The presentation of the Caesar included a reusable, microwave-safe container.
The “circuses” offered at Mar-a-Lago are not lacking here. Tables are packed with folks comparing cell phone images, consulting multi-paged documents and carrying on hushed conversations. And unlike the isolated, exclusive atmosphere of Trump’s paradise, each table has a view of a busy thoroughfare. Hollywood’s Polo Lounge isn’t more infused with intrigue, Paris’ Champs Elyse richer with fascinating passerbys.
My meal cost $4.98 with tax (there is a no tipping policy).
Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. every day, the management is eager to accommodate the late breakfasts and “early bird” dinners preferred by our retirement community.
