I didn’t know what to expect at Chef Alan Greeley’s Hungarian “Soul Food” Wednesday Dinner at The Golden Truffle. Soul food from HUNGARY?? All I could think of was Goulash! But you can’t possibly pass up 3 courses for $22, especially when it comes from the kitchen of Chef/Owner Alan Greeley of The Golden Truffle . Chef Greeley, well known for his passion, creativity, big personality, and jovial conversation peppered with expletives sees Soul Food night as his chance to experiment and delve into world cuisines and regional cooking in the U.S.
One of Chef Greeley’s New Year’s Resolutions was to have more fun and he wants you to be part of the fun! There are a few rules that come with “Soul Food” night:
1. the food is strictly authentic, with no substitutes – like: easy on the salt, no oil, light dressing, not too spice – you get the picture…
2. it is affordable – usually no more than $25.00 for three courses
3. it is the only food available at The Golden Truffle on Wednesday night and they close at 7:30 p.m.
We four ladies decided the “Soul Food” of Hungary sounded intriguing and was an excellent way for us to catch up with each other after several months. The addition of a full bar at The Golden Truffle this year provided us choices beyond beer and wine and, of course, we had to taste test a few of the specialty drinks listed. Plus, in keeping with the Hungarian theme, a special Slovakian vodka called Double Cross was being featured either as a martini with truffled blue cheese olives or mixed with Prosecco with a pear garnish.
After cocktails, we were served a wonderful savory Veal Soup with Onion Dumplings, the broth was pleasantly light and not too salty with dumplings that reminded me of Matzoh balls, only better.
Second course was a Layered Pork, Cabbage, Paprika & Sour Cream Casserole – like a Hungarian lasagna with cabbage in place of pasta and a bright, not-to-spicy tomato broth-like sauce.
Chef Greeley’s playful side came out in his rendition of a Strawberry Filo Strudel with a tangle of crispy strands of filo.
Three courses (plus special Slovakian Vodka!) for only $22 per person
Last week’s Wednesday Soul Food Dinner celebrated the cuisine of Portugal and coming up this Wednesday, June 19th, Chef Greeley is featuring California Summers with:
Hass Avocado and Celery Salad with Cherry Tomato Vinaigrette
Prime BBQ Santa Maria Tri Tip, Rosemary Roasted Potatoes & Warm Grilled Sweet Onion Tomato Salsa
Lemon Ricotta Shortcake with Mixed Berries
$24 Per Person
Reservations required and 24 hours in advance. Again, “Soul Food” Wednesday Dinners are from 5:30 to 7:30 and only the prix fixe menu is served. The restaurant is basically closed at 7:30 – no regular dinner service is offered afterwards. It’s a kick-back evening with a leisurely pace. The staff seems to kind of chip in and do whatever needs doing, so come to relax, enjoy your dining companion (s) and don’t be in a hurry on Soul Food night.
1767 Newport Blvd.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Phone: (949) 645-9970
Wow, what a meal for that price? Incredible night.
What a deal for three courses that look delicious! I am especially attracted to the lasagne-like casserole. That’s something I’ll have to try sometime. 🙂
Wow, this is such a cool concept. I love how it allows for such creativity from the chef. If I lived closer I would definitely try it 🙂
I don’t think I’ve been to a Hungarian restaurant. Sounds like a great deal with delicious food, and I’m interested in what kind of Hungarian food we can eat at this restaurant. 😀