The Fashionably-Forward Foodie: Livestock Tavern

Livestock Tavern opened just in the latter part of October by the Owners of Lucky Belly in Chinatown. I've heard such great reviews in just the last few weeks that I had to make my way down, even with all the road construction going on downtown. You're that special, Livestock! And you definitely did not disappoint. I will be back if not for their amazingly-tasty and visually appealing cocktails, but also to try some of their different menu items. I wouldn't even mind coming by myself for lunch, as the vibe and feel of the restaurant is so rustic, comfortable and cool. I see this as the place for a business-casual lunch with friends or clients, and if you're off the clock, a stellar place to get some amazing drinks.

A friend and I went there around 1pm on a Friday, and were immediately seated. I thought it would have been packed, but I guess the lunch crowd left early. We ordered the Clam Chowder, Burrata with Pesto/Fig/Arugula and a Lobster Roll each. I thought it was strange that they were out of a few items- the Heirloom Tomato Salad that comes with Cured Duck would have no duck, the Venison Carpaccio had no Venison, but instead prosciutto and no Bundaberg Ginger Beer. What a shame! I hope they fix this soon!

Anyway, everything we ordered was delicious and filling. My favorite was probably the Burrata with Pesto/Fig/Arugula and I would most definitely order it every time! The New England Corn Chowder had a lot of hearty "gunk" as I like to call it, and I'm sure most people can make a lunchtime meal out of it especially with the little slice of Rye Bread that it comes with. By the time the Lobster Roll came, I was on the fuller side of things, but as soon as I grabbed the roll to take a bite, I was astonished as to how soft and buttery the roll was. It was filled to the max with a generous amount of Lobster. Definitely not skimpy, and it better not be at the $18 price tag. The sauce on the lobster was light and not overpowering, which I liked. As much as I enjoyed how soft the roll was, I would have enjoyed it more (and felt not so guilty) if it wasn't so damn buttery!!! The tips of my fingers were shiny as heck with oil.

Next time, I'll be back to try some new cocktails by Alicia and a bunch of other dinner items like the Porridge and Pork Belly, Crispy Trotters (that I've heard so much about!), Shrimp and Grits and Mushroom Stuffed Pasta.

I'm definitely impressed with Livestock. For being open for such a short time, service was on point, albeit a bit slow at times, but always attentive and courteous. Food was served hot and tasty with such unique presentation. Not to mention the presentation of the restaurant itself was unique and notable as not many other places have that aura. You don't feel like you're in Hawaii anymore! (And I kinda like it!)

PS- Be sure to try their Seasonal Sweet Tea, which is an Apple and Cranberry Tea with All-Spice Simple Syrup. I grabbed one to go, and it kept me refreshed the entire day. Really sweet!