About two weeks ago my phone started to ring and receive text messages non-stop. Now for some this may be typical, but for me quite the opposite other then work or my mother. There seemed to be a trend in the correspondence I was receiving and it went something like this, “I went to XIV last night and it was ridiculous.” First off let me start by saying, I told you so. Second, what I like about this little gem is that I will be treated like a princess and eat like a queen, all while cheating or not.

If you know nothing about what I preach regarding health and wellness, then allow me to clue you in. My motto goes something like this: Life is short; live everyday like it is your first and every night like it is your last. Treat your body like the temple that it is, but once in a while do not be afraid to sweep the dust under the welcome mat. In other words, have a cheat day and eat a doughnut at XIV. For those of you that shudder at the encouragement of indulging in a doughnut, relax they have something for everyone.

If you choose to behave:

AHI TUNA TARTARE
Ancho Chile, Pears, Mint, Pine Nuts,
Sesame Oil 18

CHILLED OYSTERS ON THE HALF SHELL

Apricot Horseradish Foam, Compressed Apricot Mignonette 19

*Please note: do not blame me for the misbehaving that may follow upon ingestion.

TASMANIAN SALMON
Australia 32

HALIBUT
Washington 33

If you choose to misbehave:

WHOLE LOBSTER
1 ½ Pound, Maine MP

8 OZ FILET MIGNON
Prime Angus, Kentucky 36

BEAUFORT CHEESE AGNOLOTTI
Morels, English Peas, Pea Shoots 14

*Sinful and decadent.

MICHAELS’S CAVIAR PARFAIT
Selection of Wild and Farmed
Caviar MP

*A party in your mouth.

MICHAELS’S CAVIAR PARFAIT

I will never promote the horrendous four-letter word that starts with the letter “D” and sounds like fry it. I truly believe that in order to live a healthy life you must make healthy choices. The beauty of the new menu at XIV by Michael Mina is that you can keep it clean on Tuesday by selecting the tuna tartar, and treat yourself for good behavior on Saturday with the caviar parfait. To cheat or not to cheat is the question? You always have the choice when dining here. Until next time my friends, visit www.raylenebartolacci.com. To health and wellness, Salute.