Curio’s Take on Seafood Thrills Critic Helen Freund

Gambit restaurant critic Helen Freund stepped into Curio to sample what she calls the restaurant’s “lighter approach to seafood.” It doesn’t fail to impress.

With executive chef Hayley Vanvleet at the wheel, scallops and tuna are sliced razor-thin and served carpaccio-style, under a colorful drizzle of tangy ginger-citrus vinaigrette, jalapeno gremolata and fresh mint. The silky texture of the scallops pairs beautifully with rich ginger and citrus emulsion while jalapenos and mint add dimension and a snappy bite.

That said, the indulgent seafood dishes are dang good — actually, almost too good — too: “Seared scallops get a much richer treatment. Dabbed with a salty Kalamata olive butter and topped with thick flakes of Grana Padano cheese, they were almost too buttery.”

She says the location is perfect for people watching but the ambience — the downstairs bar is large, but the lighting is too bright — leaves a bit to be desired. [GAMBIT]

T-Fitz visited Public Service in the Central Business District and calls it one of the area’s “most interesting,” reporting that the menu is very much informed by its youthful clientele.

Plates come in a wide variety, from amuse-bouches through salads and substantial appetizers. A little at a time – the favorite dining style of the 20-somethings – is encouraged both at the bar and in the dining room.

He loves the ambience, especially the historical artifacts lining the walls of the lobby. But important to note: the bathroom? Not easy to find. Though the list of great dishes is large, the reviewer says the options are rather exhausted after a handful of visits. [NOLA CITY BUSINESS]