When we first moved to New Bern in 1993, the Harvey Mansion was the restaurant for fine dining. We ate there often and enjoyed their excellent food. Then the chef took ownership, and, strangely, everything went down hill fast. Business fell off and never quite recovered.
We haven't been back to the Mansion since the late 90's. Our neighbors, though, have been eating there regularly and telling us how good the food is. We decided to join them for Early Bird dining (5PM - 6:30PM). All entrees are $13.95 during Early Bird hours, and are served with house salad and bread. The menu is varied and interesting.
We were greeted warmly by our hosts, who escorted us to an intimate dining room complete with fireplace. Instantly, we were transported back to the 18th century, when this house was part of a thriving seaport.
Our meal started with small house salads, nicely prepared, fresh and tasty.
Rita had asparagus pea soup. I tasted it, and it was delicious.
Guy's meatloaf was served vertically on a bed of red-skinned potatoes, surrounded by gravy and topped with chef-prepared french-fried onion slices. He was so very happy.
Tom ordered Lamb Osso Bucco, his favorite. He said he orders it every time he comes because it's the best.
The Herb-Fried Chicken and lemon linguini tossed with prosciutto, peas and roasted tomatoes in a chardonnay cream sauce sounded interesting, but I wanted grilled chicken. No problem, the chef made it with grilled chicken. The flavors were perfectly balanced and the chicken was cooked to perfection.
Rita ordered her usual: Grilled Salmon and Mango Salad. Served atop organic greens, and drizzled with champagne orange vinaigrette, slivered almonds and orange segments, the salad got extra crunch from fried wonton strips.
We were very impressed with Harvey Mansion and will definitely be returning soon. Owner Gene Simon and Chef Scott Durocher have brought this place back to fine dining. We left filled and happy.
Dinner Hours: Tue-Sun Open at 5pm
Sounds like a great place to have dinner. Loved all of the pictures. I would be very happy with the meatloaf tower.
ReplyDeleteSam