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Springtime, when all thoughts turn to romance... or to food. Satisfy them both at Pond.

With 5000 daffodils blooming beside sparkling waters, an arched bridge overlooking the serene swans, enchantment descends upon you as you enter the sylvan grounds surrounding Pond Restaurant. The beauty of the setting showcases and highlights this jewel of a restaurant. The warm, elegant décor, the friendly and impeccable service, and the scintillating cuisine meld together into an evening that surpassed all of our expectations.

A tangle of crisp mesclun ($7) was highlighted with oranges and a whisper of tangy dressing. Our other salad combined mixed greens with squares of seared Ahi tuna and lemon confit and a refreshing cucumber dressing ($15).

The appetizers are unexpected and innovative, nothing routine or ho-hum here. The luscious ragout of wild mushrooms ($14) was meaty in a savory rich sauce. Snails "Fricasee" ($11) had tender delectable snails nestled among delicate porcini gnocchi, gently kissed with herb butter. The appetizer special was langoustines sautéed in butter and their own sweet juices, then punctuated with garlic and herbs.

The entrée special of the day was braised short rib of beef, melt-in-your mouth and bursting with rich umami flavor. My husband's eyes lit up with his first bite. Jumbo grilled shrimp with citron confit and pearl pasta ($29) was a triumph. Grilling gave a smoky edge to the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. My personal favorite was the Diver scallops ($28), served with coconut basmati rice and curried carrot jus. Silky scallops were moist and tender, with incredible flavor.

The entrees were followed by a spectacular assortment of imported cheeses ($12) served with fig marmalade - the perfect thing to segue from the entrees to dessert. Chef prepared for us an assortment of desserts, including dulce de leche ice cream that bordered on magical, crème caramel, and a sampler of 5 cakes.

Order a la carte or choose the prix fixe tasting menus - $55 for 4 courses or $75 for six courses (carefully matched wine tasting also available). Private rooms are much coveted for bridal showers, birthdays, or impressive business dinners. Whether for an event or just a dinner out, you will be entranced by Pond.

Pond Restaurant
175 King of Prussia Road
Radnor, PA 19087
610-293-9411
www.pondrestaurant.com

 
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