Tag: Chef Jay Powell

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Seared Sea Scallops from Twisted Fork Bistro in Cherry Valley

Seared Sea Scallops from Twisted Fork Bistro in Cherry Valley

Foodies ventured out of the city boundaries this month and landed in Cherry Valley at The Twisted Fork Bistro. Known for its excellent breakfast, owner and head chef Jay Powell has added dinner on Friday and Saturday nights.

I began with the Caesar Salad, served in a molded parmesan cheese bowl, fresh lettuce and a perfectly balanced homemade dressing. The parmesan bowl was a unique and delicious touch to a perfect salad. Oh, and topped with pickled anchovies. Very good!

For my entrée, I actually let our server decide for me because there were too many great options; I had the Seared Sea Scallops. I have a little rule I go by when dinning out- if I crave the dish the following day, it was a great meal. Well, it’s been five days and I’m still craving this scallop entrée. Fresh sea scallops cooked to perfection and served over a parsnip puree with a side of brussel sprouts. Absolutely fantastic!

For dessert, my mouth is watering writing this, homemade vanilla ice cream topped off with homemade salted caramel made by Jay’s wife, Nancy. This was the best vanilla ice cream I have had in the area.

One point I would like to make, Chef Jay works from a scratch kitchen, with all dishes prepared per order. This takes time, but you will be rewarded for your wait with an amazing entrée.

I have to say, this was one of my favorite Foodies experiences. The food certainly played a role, but another factor was witnessing the passion and talent Chef Jay displays. I have been to the Twisted Fork many times for breakfast, and was not sure what to expect from Jay with a dinner menu. I was presently surprised. Worcester County has some amazing chefs and great restaurants; you can put Twisted Fork on the list.

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Chicken Francaise — Twisted Fork Style

Chicken Francaise — Twisted Fork Style

I have been to Uncle Jay’s Twisted Fork for brunch several times so I was excited to try Uncle Jay’s for dinner. This dining experience was different from what the Foodies group is accustomed to since the Twisted Fork is not open on Tuesdays for dinner. We had the small, intimate restaurant to ourselves.

Chef Jay greeted us with an explanation of how he roasted the pork for a special he made to welcome us. His wife, Nancy, came over immediately to ask if we would like a beverage. They have a full bar and a nice selection of wine.

As you may have heard, Jay can be a little quirky and loud. He often talks to everyone through the window from the kitchen. I love when he gets going. His wife, Nancy is calm and so pleasant, she makes you feel as if you are at their home and you can see how she is the perfect balance to Jay.

We started with a pork taco accompanied with some truffle fries. This taco was so delicious, I really wished I could have ordered more for my meal, but it was not on the menu that night. After that, I had the soup special, which you are asked to shout to the kitchen to inquire about. Jay shouted to us all through the window the specials; however, I only heard “Root Vegetable Bisque” and knew I must try!

The soup was so well done. The flavors were rich but it was not over-powering. The texture was perfect. I wanted to finish it all but I still had my main meal to follow. I chose the Chicken Francaise, which was served with a cider glaze, cranberries, and asparagus. This was excellent.

Nancy also had another nice young lady assisting her. The service was fantastic. We were well taken care of and had whatever we needed.

I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the evening from the warm, welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, amazing service to Uncle Jay and Nancy taking the time to chat with us. I will certainly be back for dinner and brunch.