The freshest herbs and local ingredients provide the spotlight to delightful Bistro.
It was late afternoon, only one night in Hailey and every one I asked "where can I find great food prepared with imagination and fresh local ingredients" from the airport to our hotel insisted that CK's was the place to be. No time for a reservation so we just showed up. A very gracious host said she could squeeze us in and directed us through the quaint, rustic indoor seating/bar area to the open expanse of the patio. Open to the big Idaho sky on a warm summer evening that could be an appetizer in its self. Service was prompt and attentive right from the start. I am very impressed with the wine list we were handed. It is very extensive and contains excellent price points for all ranges of wine enthusiasts. There are plenty of wines offered by the glass so those of us who are students to the art can continue the education.

CK's touts its self as a destination of experiencing fresh local ingredients. I have to agree with them on this one. From their offering of locally raised lamb to the freshness of the creamy blue cheese and buttermilk dressing used in the wedge salad. You will be dining on the tall mesa.

For this night, I felt like steak. Offered on the menu the Gaucho steak was just right. Ordered medium rare it arrived perfectly finished and a bed of caramelized shallots and roasted cauliflower florets. The shallots were sweet and complemented to delicate flavors of the steak. The accompanying cauliflower delicately prepared, roasted just tender rounding out this artistic presentation. Oh and the fries. Ah yes, golden, crispy and a yielding center served in a steal cup that kept them hot as I enjoyed my steak.

My colleague had ordered a grilled halibut offered on a bed of greens. Also perfectly finished. Light and golden on the outside and full advantage was taken to the center as it was just done, steaming as the fork passed through.

As for desert, alas not this time. I opted to simply enjoy my glass of wine. From the menu, all of the confectioneries are very tempting. Next time perhaps.    [19 Aug 2007 17:43:47]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: All are presented as a piece of art. Certainly the Gauho Steak. I don't think any item will disappoint.

     ­Agent 45