At long last….an exceptional dining experience in Baldwin Park! About a year ago we moved from Baldwin Park and have since missed the bike trail, walkable community and incredible sunsets – basically everything but the dining scene. All of that’s about to change now that The Osprey Osprey Tavern has arrived in the neighborhood. A once barren corner is now filled with culinary magic and stunning interiors.
Executive Chef, Joseph Burnett, brings an appreciation for fresh ingredients that stems from his childhood in England. From the oysters that are harvested from the pristine waters of the Northern coasts, to the carefully sourced Midwestern beef and bounty of local produce and seafood, all ingredients are thoughtfully prepared with both classic and modern techniques so the ingredients can take center stage.
Bold and charming, this expansive restaurant is not for the timid diner. With a menu full of adventure, you’re sure to experience something new and unique. We were recently treated to a fabulous six course meal filled with perfectly paired wines and outstanding flavor. So bring your adventure, appetite and friends to enjoy all that The Osprey Tavern has to offer!
Amuse: Oysters with paddlefish caviar. I’m not an oyster or caviar connoisseur, but I’ll take my dining companions rave reviews as a good sign. The single bite was “clean” and a good starting point if you’re new to the whole mollusk thing.
Charcuterie: A beautifully arranged plate of black forest duck ham, chicken liver mousse, soppressata, armenian cured beef and smoked trout. A platter equally impressive for its taste and presentation. If you’re searching for a rich, flavorful charcuterie plate The Osprey Tavern’s version is worth a try.
Florida Black Grouper: Basil rubbed with zellwood corn agnolotti, broccolini and local butter. Both rich and light, this fish was utterly exceptional. A fish so light and tender, it practically melted on my fork.
Short Rib: My Lilly Pulitzer sweater became the victim of an unfortunate buttery spill while I inhaled this dish, but I was too busy enjoying this tender hunk of meat to notice or care. Red wine braised and served with fingerling potatoes, morel mushrooms and sourdough grilled bread, it’s a rich, memorable cut of meat served in a ginormous serving piece.
Pizzas: During our second visit to Osprey Tavern, I might have consumed an entire pizza….but who’s counting slices here? Both the Ham and Cheese and Garden Pizza are baked in the stone hearth oven and topped with untraditional ingredients like IPA Cheddar and Radish Pesto respectively. Not your typically delivery pizza, The Osprey Tavern has sought out to create and serve gourmet pies.
Chocolate Caramel: I don’t know where they found this pastry chef, but she’s clearly an expert in confections. The perfect ending to a lavish meal, this flourless chocolate cake was nestled among salted caramel, caramelia cream and roasted cocoa nib ice cream. Make sure you order a sweet treat for the grande finale of your dining experience here.
Whether you live down the road or across the city, make a trip to this corner of Baldwin Park, it’s totally worth a visit to taste what The Osprey Tavern has to offer.