Maison Blanche - Longboat Key, FL

We feel extremely lucky to live in close proximity to destination restaurant, Maison Blanche, on Longboat Key.  Not only has acclaimed Chef/Owner Jose Martinez received a very coveted Michelin star, his progressive French restaurant is also very highly ranked on the Zagat survey, and Martinez has received nominations from the James Beard Foundation too. We generally reserve Maison Blanche for special occasions because the venue is incredibly chic and sophisticated, and the menu warrants a celebration. One thing we love most is how welcoming and comfortable the restaurant is, but most of all, we go here for the divine French cuisine! Here is our report from a recent visit:

Amuse Bouche

Amuse Bouche: Corn and potato creme, served chilled with leeks and olive oil. 
TOM: "I don't usually like anything chilled, but overall it was really nice."

CARRIE: "I absolutely loved the mix of olive oil and potato flavors, I could start every meal this way. Delicious!"

Blue Crab Salad

Evening's Appetizer: Blue Crab Salad, featuring hints of apple in a savory curry sauce. 

TOM:  "The perfect balance of flavors and textures created a wonderful medley between the sweet and salty crab."  

CARRIE: "I've never tried anything close to this combination of flavors, and it was beyond amazing."

Asparagus Soup

Asparagus Soup:

TOM: "Luscious, smooth, and velvety green."

CARRIE: "I thoroughly enjoyed this warm and satisfying complex soup. I love how our waiter served it too--from a pitcher poured over the vegetables. So pretty!"

Red Snapper

Entree: Pan-seared Red Snapper over lemon potatoes with thyme.

TOM: "Delicate and moist--the way I think Snapper should always be served. It's done just right."

CARRIE: "Tom ordered this dish and I liked it so much that when I tried a bite, I asked if we could please trade. I've never done that before!"

TOM: "I wanted Carrie's Seabass anyway, so it was the perfect situation....we tried to be inconspicuous when switching plates, which is not easy in a sophisticated French restaurant. Our Parisian waiter Jerome was excellent and found it entertaining when he caught on." 

CARRIE: "It's also hard to take photos in some of the nicer restaurants like this, but I called ahead and they were exceptionally gracious." 

Mediterranean Seabass 

Entree: Pan seared Mediterranean Seabass over Baby Spinach and capers. 

TOM: "This is my all time favorite dish in the entire Southwest Florida region. It is simply amazing. You must order it 'crispy' though, with the skin on, which totally melts in your mouth and adds tremendous flavor."

CARRIE: "I originally ordered this dish but Tom really wanted it, and I wanted his too, so win-win! We were both ecstatic and marveled at each and every bite of our entrees." 

Interior View 

Overall the setting is a very comfortable, beautiful, billowy white atmosphere with gorgeous orchids and candles. The tables are spaced nicely with embracing leather chairs and room to have a comfortable conversation. Tom also loves the napkins, as they are very luxurious. And the mini French baguettes of course! It's those little things--and the big things too--like the incredible staff and flawless French fare, that makes Maison Blanche one of our all-time favorites!

Le Pain

 Love the inviting tented white entrance

Bon Appetit! 

Welcome to Maison Blanche: 

Location:

2605 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Longboat Key, Florida 34228

Reservations: 

941.383.8088

Visit:

http://maisonblancherestaurants.com

-Tom & Carrie