Union Kitchen and Tap recently opened a second location in the heart of Gaslamp. In addition to the extensive bar selection which they are known for, this new location has a menu prepared by Executive Chef Sean Langlais (Oceanaire), Executive Sous Chef Jimmy Tessier (appeared on Food Network’s Chopped) and Sous Chef Luis (Searsucker).
We were recently invited to check out the new spot.
Spicy Pear Cocktail
I loved the scent of the sweet pear. The jalapeno added a mild and pleasant burn.
The menu had quite a few dishes I was interesting in trying, such as the fried quail waffles, but our server highly recommended we go the seafood route because of Chef Langlais background, so we trusted his recommendations.
Carolina Style Blue Crab Cake
We were told that this was exactly like the Oceanaire crab cake where Chef Langlais was previously at. Oceanaire’s crab cake remains one of my favorite bites in San Diego, and I’ve definitely missed it since we haven’t been back to Oceanaire in quite a while, so I was excited by the prospect of getting it again here. Unfortunately, this was not the same. It was immediately apparent from the appearance.
It’s not to say this wasn’t a good crab cake. It was actually quite tasty, with soft crab meat dusted with a creole seasoning. But I couldn’t help being a little disappointed after expecting the Oceanaire version.
Chai Seed Crusted Albacore
This was Mr. K’s entree. The tuna came out so beautifully. It was paired with a flavorful red Thai curry.
Pan Roasted Skuna Bay Salmon
This dish came out wonderfully as well. The pan roasted salmon had a crunchy layer of skin and the fish was moist and tender. It sat on a bed of creamy corn pudding, fava beans and squash. I cleaned my plate.
Unfortunately, we didn’t save room for their homemade desserts. Next time.
Overall, we enjoyed our meal here. I was excited by the menu when I researched this place and the food was pretty good. It’s a great place for drinks and a satisfying meal. We’ll likely be coming back here with friends soon. You can view their menus online.
Disclaimer: Please note, as stated above, we were invited to dine here and our meal was complimentary. I was not further compensated for this review and my opinions are my own.
Union Kitchen and Tap (Gaslamp)
333 Fifth Ave
San Diego, CA92101
https://www.gaslampunion.com/
the pictures are making me really hungry right now. Have to go try it
i had a good time!
That salmon dish looks absolutely delicious. I would demolish that cream corn pudding right about now. I’ve always been curious about experimenting with jalapenos to make a cocktail. But I think I’d end up hurting people by accidentally adding too many jalapenos or something (since I love everything spicy). ‘A mild and pleasant burn’ is a great way to say how a spicy drink should taste 🙂
you should totally experiment! Im thinking of doing it too =)
The crusted albacore looks yummy 🙂
it was as delicious as it looked!