by Sue Giustino
Sel Rrose Montauk and Chef Hewitt continue to offer menus highlighting local fish and produce of each season. As autumn unfolds, so does their menu. We enjoyed a perfect early fall dinner, capturing some end of summer specialties along with a few cool weather additions.
Walking into the beautifully decorated bar area, you immediately feel the classy relaxing vibe of the restaurant. The airy, light and comfortable décor is welcoming; each room has its own character and is adorned with vast windows to the outside. 
The large bar at the entrance offers seats for dining, or cocktails and small bites. Passing the sparking pearl mosaic bar, we were seated in the main dining area with a wall of glass garage doors, cozy cushioned seating, and muraled walls with an enlarged design of the room’s floral benches overlaid with white lattice; together creating a lovely outdoor garden-like experience. Although it was mid-October, the garage doors were folded up to enjoy the gorgeous, unusually warm, fall evening for al fresco dining.
Greeted by our server Dennis, we pondered over the menu and evening specials, and ordered some cocktails. The Hunter, which is a blend of Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, ginger syrup, mesquite honey, lime and grapefruit bitters, is a smoky favorite for Mezcal drinkers. The Margarita Pamplemousse, created with Los Dos Tequila, Combier Pamplemousse, Amargo-Vallet, lime and agave, is quite a lovely grapefruit inspired alternative to a traditional Margarita. Of course, if Tequila is not your flavor, the special cocktail menu is full of unique and tempting creations.
While sipping our cocktails, Chef Hewitt sent Le Sel RRose Plateau with the freshest collection of oysters, shrimp and clams resting atop a bed of ice, all perched on a beautiful silver tower accompanied by an array of dipping sauces. In addition, we chose a few small plates recommended by Dennis. The Himachi Crudo, thinly sliced yellow tail with jalapeno, avocado orange and ponzu sauce was light and tasty. 
Adding a bit of tender sweet/spiciness to our meal, the Shrimp Shu Mai with wakame salad and hoisin sauce was also delicious. Our favorite was the Angry Octopus…prepared with a special technique by Chef Hewitt, and served with chile oil, garlic, shallots, lemon zest, and crispy basil. This dish is fabulous; tender and full of flavor! It’s obvious that all of the seafood is fresh and prepared with great care allowing the natural flavors to delight the taste buds.
Offering a variety land and sea options, the main meals are generously plated along with sides to accent each choice of meat or fish. One of the house favorites is the Braised Short Ribs. Cooked fork tender and served with vanilla sweet potatoes [Like no other!], carrots, parsnips, celery root, pearl onions, and natural jus this is a must for anyone who enjoys short ribs. The thick cut Pork Chop, is both tender and juicy straight through. Paired with whipped potatoes, asparagus, and firecracker applesauce, it’s another perfect ‘fall feelgood’ choice. In honor of Octoberfest, Chef Shawn prepared a traditional marinated Pot Roast with potato pancakes and perfectly tangy red cabbage. The beef was tender and full of that special German flavor; the next few weeks may bring Sauerbraten and other German specialties, so be on the lookout. Finally, the Catch of the Day was a fresh caught Tuna Steak; just outstanding! Plated over whipped potato and broccoli rabe, with a lemon caper butter sauce which brilliantly accented the natural flavors of the seared tuna creating a perfect meal. On another visit, I had this dish with Swordfish which was also was delicious.
In addition to our wonderful dinner choices, there are many other lovely options available. Have room for dessert? Check with your server for the evening’s tasty treats. Brunch is served at Sel Rrose on Sundays, be sure to stop by and check out the complete cocktail, dinner and brunch menus.
Happy Hour Returns: Monday- Friday 4pm-7pm with $2 oysters, $5 beers, and $10 glasses of wine. Want to stop by for an after dinner drink? The bar usually stays open an hour past dinner service and later on the weekends
Sel Rrose, located at 4 South Elmwood Avenue, is open for dinner Sunday, Monday [closed on Tuesdays], and Wednesday through Saturday from 4-10pm. Sunday Brunch is from 12-4 (last reservation 3:30). https://selrrose.com/reservations-1
