Melange, 1568 Main Street, 941-953-7111

Melange Restaurant reopened recently after a refresh that included a facelift for the adjoining sandwich shop, Monkey Business, and sexy craft cocktail bar, Pangea Lounge. The new Melange is filled with fresh herbs dangling from the ceiling in baskets, growing in pots on the tables, and adorning Executive Chef and Owner Lan Bradeen’s stunning sweet and savory creations. The menu features exciting new additions such as The Axis Venison Shank with African rooibos tea and cranberry sauce, creamy mushrooms with Brussels sprouts and quinoa but, thankfully, some of my favorite dishes remain, including the rich and creamy Duck Brie Crepes. My favorite new addition is the Roasted Bone Marrow with soy seasoning, pickles and microgreens with sesame vinaigrette. The dish is silky and unctuous with a hint of sweet and tangy notes hanging out in the background. Finish any meal at Melange by journeying next door and discovering Pangea Lounge (I promise it’s there, you just have to know where to look) and you’ll be transported on a liquid adventure as exciting as the culinary one you’ve just completed.

Melange, 1568 Main Street, 941-953-7111