My affinity for cheese drew me to Artisanal to try out its Fondue Month, a month-long celebration of fondue made with a different cheese each day. While February has come and gone, you can enjoy Artisanal’s fondue year-round.
I went last Wednesday when the cheese of the day was raclette. Even after many trips to Murray’s Cheese shop, I still hadn’t tried raclette, a traditional Swiss cheese, so I was excited for something new. It had a deep, almost nutty flavor with some smokiness to it, making it a perfect cheese for our fondue.
I split the petite portion with my friend, and for $24 we had 6 oz. of cheese (absolutely more than enough for two people), a basket of bread cubes, one baigneuses of choice (we went for the kielbasa) and two glasses of Jacquere Apremont Boniface Savoie & Jura 06 wine, which is like a light pinot grigio. Everything was delicious, although the kielbasa was actually better alone rather than dipped in the cheese.
While I’m sorry to report that this amazing deal is over, you can still get the regular petite or grande fondue ($48 for 4-6 people), but without the extra perks like the complimentary wine and baigneuses. And don’t forget all the other great deals that Artisanal is currently offering such as their budget-friendly Grilled Cheese Bar, Brew Tuesdays (half-off craft beers all night) and three-course prixe fixe menus ($25 between 5-6:30 pm or 10-11 pm, and $35 after 6:30 pm).
The Basics Name: Artisanal Location: 2 Park Avenue Who to take: a date, friends, family Price: $$$ – one less drink at the bar this week. Overall: Try to take advantage of one of their deals. Four stars.
