Harvest

   Harvest Restaurant is an iconic restaurant located in Harvard Square, that serves local seasonal cuisine and over the years has been a training ground for several of the Boston's most renowned Chefs including Mary Dumont, Barbara Lynch, Frank McClelland, Sara Moulton, Lydia Shire, Bob Kinkead, and more.
   This year Harvest is turning 40, and the celebration will last all month! From November 1 through November 30, 2015, you are invited to celebrate Harvest’s 40th Anniversary with a series of in-restaurant events including:
A Special Anniversary Tasting MenuThe Anniversary Tasting Menu is inspired by the chefs who have made their mark at Harvest over the past four decades, and their signature dishes during their time at the restaurant.

• A three-course menu $48; $68 with wine pairing (see menu)
• A six-course menu $68; $88 with wine pairing (see menu)

Anniversary Month Specials
Guests celebrating their own birthday or anniversary will receive 15% of their total bill (excluding alcohol, tip and gratuity). Just note the celebration when making your reservation and mention to your server.
Anniversary Toast
Throwback specialty cocktails priced at 1970s prices, like the “Harvest Wallbanger” for $2.95
Anniversary Prizes:Guests who share their past and present Harvest memories and photos on Instagram throughout the month of November using #HarvestThenandNow and @DineatHarvest will earn the chance to win one of three prizes, including:
   •   Brunch for four at Harvest
   •   Dinner for two at Harvest
   •   $50 Gift Card]  
   I had a chance to preview the six course tasting menu with wine pairings, and it was amazing! Here is what you can expect (although a few of my courses were modified slightly to accommodate lactose intolerance). 

Amuse: Beet salad with walnut puree

Onion Soup Gratinee: 
Albert Bichot, Pinot Noir - Burgundy, France 2012
Inspired by Laura Boehmer, Harvest Chef in the late 70s

Soft Egg Ravioli:
 Ricotta, Arugula Pesto & Foraged Mushrooms
La Grange de Piaugier, Granache Blend - Cotes du Rhone, France 2013
Tyler Kinnett, Harvest Executive Chef

Andouille & Wild American Shrimp Gumbo: 
Hugel, Riesling - Alsace, France 2012
Inspired by Chris Schlesinger, Harvest Chef - late 70s/early 80s

Venison Denver Leg:
Braised Endive & Mustard Sauce
Rock & Vine, Cabernet Sauvignon - North Coast, California 2013
Inspired by Bob Kinkead, Harvest Chef in the 1980s

Apple & Fig Tart Tatin:
Creme Fraiche Sherbet, Long Pepper Caramel & Granola
Chateau Bel Air, Semillon - Bordeaux, France 2012
Brian Mercury, Executive Pastry Chef, Harvest

Queen of Sheba Cake:
Chocolate Almond Cake, Coffee Foam, Dried Apricot Sauce & Almond Butter
Marenco, Pineto, Brachettod d'Acqui - Piedmont, Italy 2013
Brian Mercury, Executive Pastry Chef, Harvest

   All of the dishes were incredible; beautiful flavor, execution and presentation and the wine pairings were perfect. I highly recommend trying one of the tasting menus this month, they are a great value ($88 for six courses including wine pairings is unheard of) and a perfect opportunity to try several dishes and really get a feel for what the restaurant is all about (past and present).