It is both sad and wonderful to report that two of our best meals in 2012 were not within the five boroughs, but instead in Newport, Rhode Island.
We did not have the highest of culinary expectations for our trip to Newport, but were completely knocked off our feet by how great all of our meals were there. In particular, our two dinners were outstanding - the first at Tallulah on Thames and the second at Fluke.
At Tallulah, we had the tasting menu and their preparations for a vegetarian were fantastic. I definitely did not feel like an after-thought there! The agnolotti in particular, which are pictured below, were incredibly fresh with a great array spring vegetables and herbs.
At Fluke, I devoured what is probably the best vegetarian risotto I have ever had - I am not sure if it was a super-rich Parmesan broth or what the secret ingredient was, but each bite was a treat.
We definitely look forward to a return trip one day soon to Newport - and a tip to all like us who may be priced out of the summer season is to go immediately before or after the formal summer season for better accommodation deals!