I got the chance to sample some dishes at Manhattan's new restaurant, Bourbon and Baker. Brought to you by
Harry's, Bourbon and Baker is as upscale as Harry's but with a more casual dining approach. The menu is predominately small plates, think tapas. These small plates are divided into two sections: "Southern and Midwestern Influences" and "Culinary Experiences." In the first category, you'll find small but decadent versions of dishes such as Chicken and Waffles and Shrimp & Grits. In the latter category, you find dishes that would more commonly be found on a tapas menu, such as Stuffed Piquillo Peppers along with more innovative dishes such as Truffle Popcorn (popcorn flavored with foie gras butter, truffle salt and Manchego) and the dessert worthy "Waffle Date" (an orange zest waffle with prosciutto, mascarpone, medjool date-pistachio relish and maple syrup.) The third section of the menu features family style entrees. These say that they are meant to be shared by four diners. Ranging in price from $70 to $95, they include choices such as a Fried Chicken dinner, a Seafood Boil and a Bone-In Rib-eye. As I was dining alone, I didn't get to sample any of these, nor did I catch a glimpse of the dishes from afar. At first glance, the prices may seem steep, but if they actually serve 4, these prices are comparable or less than they would be at Harry's.
Given the name, it's appropriate that one third of the menu is devoted to bourbons. They also have a reasonable selection of wines by the glass and by the bottle. They have some original cocktails as well as one on tap, their whiskey punch that includes pineapple juice, orange juice, lime. grenadine and is topped with nutmeg.
The best way to enjoy the menu would be with a group of friends. As with tapas, the small plates tend to be very rich and are best shared. Prices for the small plates vary between $3 and $8.5. I ordered four small plates and it was more than enough. You could certainly have an affordable night out by sharing the small plates with friends and drinking on tap (wine, beer or punch.) The restaurant has a boisterous, noisy atmosphere. Not ideal for a date but great for a night out with friends.
The menu.
View of the dining room from the back.
The bar.
The bar facing towards the back.
The Siracha, Bacon and Crab Deviled Eggs ($3) a very rich and smokey version of the dish.
The Waffle Date: although it has savory ingredients (i.e. prosciutto) it is a delicious, sweet dish. Definitely could substitute for dessert.
Oops! I forgot to photograph the Shrimp & Grits until I had already taken a few bites! Very good, very rich and spicy. Would be best shared with at least one other person.
The pastry kitchen in the back of the restaurant. The pastry chef, Kirsten Spear, has a designed a simple menu, only three items: a slice of cake, cookies and milk or butterscotch pudding. I opted for the cake, to go.
The cake of the night: a yellow cake with lemon curd. It was moist and delicious.
Bourbon & Baker
312 Poyntz
Manhattan, KS 66502
Executive Chef: Cadell Bynum
Pastry Chef: Kirsten Spear
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