Portland Eats has published a review of Five Fifty-Five.

But it was the “organic baby carrot-vanilla emulsion” that made the dish.  I had read about scallop dishes incorporating vanilla, but had never tried this combination.  It works.  I didn’t realize that vanilla was in the dish, but upon tasting the emulsion, I detected a familiar but difficult to describe flavor (particularly in the context).  Sure enough, that was the vanilla, adding an exotic note to the carrot emulsion and nicely complementing the scallops.

Appetite Portland has published a review of David’s 388.

Mushroom Dusted Haddock: The night’s BIG standout. Moist, meaty haddock encased in an earthy mushroom essence draped over a bed of savory risotto. Spinach, first steamed in vegetable stock, then braised to perfection by the artistic pour of a sizzling ragout, added a bright, fresh zip.

Appetite Portland has published a review of David’s 388.

Mushroom Dusted Haddock: The night’s BIG standout. Moist, meaty haddock encased in an earthy mushroom essence draped over a bed of savory risotto. Spinach, first steamed in vegetable stock, then braised to perfection by the artistic pour of a sizzling ragout, added a bright, fresh zip.

Edible Obsessions has published a review of Bar Lola.

The food was wonderful. The plates were consistent and well presented. What I like most about the menu is that it feels very grounded, like a collection of dishes you’d try to make yourself at home. In fact, that reminds me… I need to see if [chef] Guy [Hernandez] will part w/that Spicy Slaw recipe.

The Blueberry Files has published a review of Evangeline.

To start, I had the Cervelles de Veau or crispy calf’s brain fritter. The brain was rather small (makes sense, since they have small heads) and was fried nicely, with a creamy, soft white interior. Not at all what I thought brain would be like. The fritter was atop cabbage, capers, brown butter, and bacon, which provided a nice salty, smoky contrast.

Portland Bar Guide has published a review of Beale Street Barbeque.

While the outside of this newer location seems municipal, the inside has a homier feel, with twangy music and southern decor. Featuring a pool table, some arcade games and a few televisions, this is really a place you can bring the whole family or have a simple date, while satisfying your craving for barbeque.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Time has received 4 stars from the Eat & Run review in today’s Press Herald.

I realize “exquisite” is a big word in the context of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, which is basically a step up from toast and perhaps the first substantial exercise in food preparation for any 5-year-old. But it’s appropriate nonetheless.

Peanut Butter Jelly Time turns a peanut butter and jelly sandwich into high art.