A few months back, I visited Martin Cooks during one of
their Wednesday “Uncorked & Unseated” nights. MT and I
arrived late with only an hour to go but Martin invited us to stay. He refused
us to pay the full flat $40 for the unlimited food and wine, and only charged us for the
bowls of hearty vegetarian chili (though we drank and ate much more than that). It was such a warm, intimate and fuss-less
evening; I couldn’t wait to return.
Alas, Uncorked & Unseated is no more, but MC’s brunch is
certainly alive and well! MT was my companion again as we trekked through the
snowy West Side last Saturday. Horsefeathers was bustling
with the activity from Martin’s and the weekly farmer’s market. We allotted
some time to peruse the market as we waited, however the hostess cheerily
informed us not to venture far. We were soon seated right in the heart of the
action in front of the open-plan kitchen.
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| Martin's cooks |
Menus placed in front of us, consisting of about eight brunch dishes
to choose from and one very tempting flour-less chocolate cake for dessert.
Though concise, the menu proved difficult to arrive at a decision. Thankfully,
beverages arrived quickly the help lubricate our brains. Not surprisingly, I
went for a mimosa which was nicely priced at $6 and excellently proportioned of OJ and bubbles.
Fun orange juice indeed! MT sipped on the Whiskey Dick (mwahah), a hefty pour
of premium whiskey and a nice, crisp dry cider.
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| Meat stacks and fun orange juice |
As for the mains, I was finally able to decide on the Meat
Stack which consisted of two thick homemade meatball patties, cappicola slices
and sausage placed gently on a smooth tomato sauce base. The stacks were topped
with arugula and two perfectly toasted garlic slices. I was so very pleased
with my stacks, and really had to show some self-restraint to save room for the chocolate
cake and to not lick my bowl! MT went with Martin’s double cheeseburger served
with potato salad and hot peppers. The cheese:meat:bun ratio was very even,
throwing shade on every fast food photographer around. I barely took my third
bite before MT was done so I’ll take that as it was delicious!
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| Sly smile from MT prior to devouring the double cb |
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| This is what heaven tastes like |
To finish off our feast, we split the flour-less cake. The
cake is what all chocolate cakes dream to be. Nicely dense, with a hint of
bitterness and a silky texture made for a wonderful sweet finish. I am a bit of
of chocolate snob and rarely order chocolate cake, pies, etc out as I am almost
always disappointed. Not last Saturday, and not at Martin Cooks. The experience was
so powerful, I had to finish off the meal with a crisp, calming glass of Cava.
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| A fat and happy smile from yours truly |
Martin Cooks brunch was spectacular. There’s a lot of hype
on this place since it opened a few years ago, and for good reason. The location,
thoughtfulness of the dishes, and overall vibe sets Martin Cooks above the
rest. Run, don’t walk next weekend to the West Side! I am literally shaking in
my boots for the day I get to splash out for his dinner!
346 Connecticut St.
Buffalo, NY 14213
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