Tantra. As in tantric. As
in aphrodisiac. As in sensual, exotic,
opulent, sexy, primal.
Frankly, we thought it might
go either way. Could be interesting in
that good way. Or, in all likelihood,
interesting in that unfortunate way.
So what a pleasant surprise
that Tantra turned out to be a delicious
experience. Encased in a dark, exotic,
plush scene – quite a contrast from
the bright pastels of the city –
Tantra offers extravagant ingredients
fashioned into inventive, luscious cuisine.
Lobster makes frequent appearances
throughout the menu, from a lively Thai-inspired
coconut milk soup with lobster medallions,
lemongrass essence, and Chanterelle mushrooms,
to the signature Tantra Plate, an assortment
of "the most potent aphrodisiacs"
including Pacific oysters, succulent sweet
soy grilled eel, lobster wontons, and
more.
The menu is sprinkled with
Tantra encouragements/explanations like
"high phosphorus and iodine content
in salmon has beneficial effect on sexual
potency" and "sharing food with
another human being is an intimate act
that should not be indulged in lightly."
Even the most jaded may be persuaded to
view the dining experience in a new light.
When the food is this good, it’s
hard to resist.
We particularly enjoyed
the silken seared foie gras on a plantain
cake with a rich dried mango and fresh
pineapple Oaxacan mole. An entrée of roast
chicken with slivers of black truffles
under the skin, on an oyster mushroom
frittata, with an artichoke, tomato and
chive sauce was divine. As was the grilled
quail on fresh tagliatelle tossed with
sage, pine nuts and pancetta with fresh
figs. And there were several more tempting
items on the menu that would definitely
warrant a return visit.
Dessert is, not surprisingly,
an exercise in sensory fulfillment. Outstandingly
rich and creamy Crème Brulee and chocolate
Pots de Crème, and a signature "Goddess"
cake featuring a flourless chocolate cake
layered with white and dark chocolate
ganache and crème anglaise are all great
choices. Our favorite was a sort of trifle
consisting of mascarpone and fresh chestnut
puree layered with lady fingers, cranberry
puree, and bittersweet chocolate.
The wine list is extravagant,
with plenty of top notch selections at
top notch prices. Although Champagne is
practically required at some point in
the evening, we bypassed most of the boutique
level wines for something more lusty and
rustic – the Tablas Rouge from Tablas
Creek in Paso Robles and were perfectly
satisfied. (december 2002)
1445 Pennsylvania Ave
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Tel: 305.672.4765
www.tantrarestaurant.com
