Paul Martin’s American Grill New Irvine Triple Threat
By Glori Fickling
The grandiose signature blazoned high above the expansive entrance to Paul Martin‘s American Grill sets an enticing pace for what’s ahead at this newest dining delight in multi-faceted Irvine Spectrum. Grandiose is the scope of this attractive restaurant which sports an elongated bar, massive wine display unit, cushy dining areas, twin patios and an intimate hideaway for romantic interludes. Enticing depicts the affordably priced menu referring to seasonally updated offerings of farm fresh cuisine encompassing organic produce, mesquite grilled meats and seafood, delectable house made desserts and breads. Add to these taste sensations, sincere hospitality from dedicated servers hip to many facets of a fine dining experience, obviously predicated upon Paul Martin’s initial victory in Roseville, California five years ago, followed by a second success less than three years later..
Launching a delectably memorable evening, my guest and I sipped peach-infused Bellini flutes presented with the promise that these sparkling champagnes would deliciously trump the 1930’s original from famed Harry’s Bar, Setting salivary glands in motion came an extraordinary seafood platter chosen from a half dozen starters each of appetizers/shared plates, seafood specialties, soups/salads, Our show-stopper arrived bountifully arranged atop an elegant stemmed server of crushed ice boasting a quartet of icy oysters and wild white shrimp, a stately pair of Maine lobster tails and delectable salmon pate ready to scoop with tangy green apple slices and crisp toast slabs. Flavor contrast arrived on a butcher board of local cheeses and artisan prosciuto. \ Utterly irresistible, even after all this bounty, was wild mushroom soup laden with 3 varieties of exotic fungi delectably enhanced with a bit of cream.
Superlative selections from the mesquite grill miss no bet and are appreciably identified with heart friendly and gluten free notations. Among meat orders, as pork is my choice for ultimate savor, a revelation was discovery of Durok heirloom pork, a thick porterhouse cut. The huge, succulent slab arrived, crowning a heap of shredded, bacon-infused brussel sprouts, the unique presentation appealingly enhanced with a chilled stem of exceptional Kelly Fleming sauvignon blanc. My savvy companion, noting frequent disappointments elsewhere with overcooked fish, was noticeably elated with his Pacific prime loin swordfish steak sided with broccolini, blistered tomatoes, and an la a carte heap of buttery mashed spuds we shared with relish.
Sunday dinner is already a tradition served all day with roasted prime rib and old fashion mashed potatoes, three scrumptious courses prefaced with steaming soup or organic baby lettuce plus a grand finale of yummy vanilla ice cream, a glorious trio of luscious scoops. A winners among the variety of delectable desserts is luscious banana cream pie richly layered over a delicate chocolate coated crust. For happy hour devotees, Paul Martin’s American Grill celebrates the occasion daily, generously offering cocktails, wine and appetizers in fascinating $4 and $8 categories to please individual budgets and tastes.. Indulge happily, 3 to 7 p.m. weekdays, 3 to 6 p.m. weekends, then return often to keep tbe good times going.
Paul Martins American Grill
Irvine Spectrum, 311 Fortune Dr., 949 453-1144 www.paulmartinsamericangrill.com