It’s not often I’m so blown away by the presentation of food at restaurants, that I don’t want to eat and ruin it.

view of the juliet balcony covered in twinkle lights accompanied by my own twinkling rose.

Vernick Food & Drink is one restaurant where for me, that was the case. It is owned and operated by a couple where the equation of his creativity in the kitchen and her friendly demeanor makes for a sophisticated, elegant and warm experience.

The space feels like a living room without the couches. We were seated upstairs where I had a peripheral view of the quaint juliet balcony and in the center of the room – a gorgeous floral arrangement placed on a butcher-block server’s station, which looked more like a chic console than a functional buffet.

colorful arrangement of beets and beef tartare on charred sourdough looked like mosaics

doesn't get much better than handcrafted pasta and fresh ricotta

I should have known when the waiter came out with a one-sip shot of sweet onion volute with a pearl drop of parsley oil, that we were in for a modern art experience. Every plate that arrived reminded me of pieces I would see at the MOMA. We started off with a trio of beets and two types of savory toast – one topped with beef tartare and fresh horseradish, and one with pea puree and bacon. Then along came the warm handmade ricotta cheese with swiss chard, pine nuts and lemon; the brussels sprouts with ancho caramel; and the black pepper parpadelle with lamb ragu.

I was impressed by Vernick's translation of food into art, not only in his presentation, but in his melding of flavors. He will teach you to appreciate food on new levels. Recommended.