We had dinner at Salt at the Ritz Carlton on our recent trip to Amelia Island. I wanted something special to cap off our trip and it had amazing reviews. We were able to drop off the car at the main entrance of the Ritz even though it was a busy night there. The parking is complimentary. The valet even took the time to show us the way to the restaurant since we had not visited before. The hotel is as beautiful as you would expect at a Ritz Carlton property.
The Salt dining room is an long, rectangular room with a wall of windows looking out on the dunes and the Atlantic. The walls are mahogany. The decor is very elegant. We sat in one of the half round booths. It was nice because we could sit together, but it is a very large table for just a couple. I would probably request one of the window tables now that I have been to the room.
As you would expect, the service at Salt was exceptional. They had a team, lead by our server David, who guided us through the meal and helped to make it an exceptional evening.
The Starter
We ordered the Snapper for a starter. This is served “crudo” (raw) with avocado and a fermented carrot broth. The dish is served cold. It had stunning color. The fish was thinly sliced. It was very flavorful and perfectly balanced.
Teresa and I both enjoyed the dish. It set the stage perfectly for the main courses.
The Mains
Teresa and I normally share our dishes. For this meal, I decided to order each us a main course. I ordered Teresa the Dover Sole. This is served with wild mushrooms and a champagne emulsion. I had read a number of reviews that said this dish was one of the best that they had ever had. Teresa had never had a Dover Sole before, so I thought it would be a great dish for her. I decided on the Beef Tenderloin. This is done with cipollini and a red wine-marrow sauce. Both dishes were elegantly plated, perfectly cooked, and really flavorful.
The Dessert
We had the Grand Marnier Soufflé for dessert. This is served with chocolate gelato and a crème anglaise. It was cooked perfectly. We ordered a port to go with it and they brought some chocolates as well. This was a great finish to a fabulous meal.