Local Eats Tartine
Oct 11, 2011 We were excited to try the new casual French restaurant, Tartine, and got a chance to stop in last weekend. Initial reviews we'd read were very positive and for a newly opened restaurant, it seemed like they were living up to expectations.
Located on University Avenue in Clive, Tartine is a sister restaurant of Baru 66, the chic fine dining spot from David Baruthio and Sara Hill.
The makeover from rib shack to casual dining restaurant is definitely complete. Tartine is a nice open space with artwork, a comfy corner seating area, enormous booths, and lots of dark wood tables.
It is an order-at-the-counter kind of place, but as we waited in line for a late Saturday lunch, we got to gaze upon this lovely scene. It really gets you in the mood for something rustic and fresh.
The menu is up on a chalkboard on the wall - it's a lot to take in and there is a nice variety on the menu. Breakfast lovers will be happy to see that breakfast is available all day. For lunch, you can choose from their signature Tartines - an open-faced sandwich - paninis, salads, soups and even burgers. And, of course, there are always pastries, croissants, muffins and desserts available. Wine and Iowa brewed beers are also on the menu.
The specials for the day are listed on a separate chalkboard below the register.
Grant went with the grill special, Duck Confit with Braised Cabbage. Big pieces of bacon added lots of flavor to the braised cabbage and the duck was unctuous and savory.
I just had to try the Croque Monsieur - it's one of my favorite sandwiches ever, and it was luscious. A little messy, like it should be, the bechamel sauce really added that extra layer of flavor. This was no ordinary grilled ham and cheese.
I chose the frites for my side - what a great decision. These were so crispy, yet you could definitely taste the potato - seasoned perfectly. I'd go back just for these fries.
We were too stuffed for dessert, but we'll definitely return to try some of the delicious looking pastries. We really enjoyed our meals - everything was freshly prepared - it's so nice when you can tell that the people preparing your food really care about how the food will be enjoyed by their customers.
Do give Tartine a try - made to order French casual is a taste the Des Moines metro was definitely lacking. Let us know if you visit Tartine - and what you ate!
Tartine
12695 University Avenue
Clive, IA 50325
515.327.7427
Hours
Monday - Saturday 7am - 8pm
Sunday 9am - 2pm
Menus and more information at www.tartinedsm.com