I’m willing to give The Cecil another chance because I didn’t dislike my food, I just think my expectations and what was delivered weren’t on the same menu page. I decided to see what the hype was about in Harlem and went for brunch since that’s like my thing. Unbeknownst to me, is that they don’t serve Mimosas here, well it’s not on their menu at least and every one that reads Food Before Love knows I had an instant frown in my face!
I ordered one anyway and raised my eyebrow at not only the $14 price tag but also at the cocktail glass it was served to me in. Where’s my flute? I wasn’t going to let this hinder my experience though and tried the oxtail dumplings. I really enjoyed them and apparently, so do the rest of Harlem. It wasn’t over powering with the taste of curry and the oxtail was delicious especially in the sauce they provide.
But I wasn’t there for starters; I’m a small girl who needs her food. So I ordered the brisket and poached egg, which is accompanied by fried rice. This is where I had a dilemma and also why I’m willing to go back. Who told The Cecil they could put so many onions in my rice?? I don’t like onions, but I will eat them if I have to. This was too much for me. Too many onions, way too many, and I could hardly taste or enjoy my rice. I was already trying to be adventurous with my poached egg; I couldn’t be so different for one day. Judge my palate if you want to! I tried to enjoy my steak, but it was far too chewy for me as well and this brunch just wasn’t it.
I will say this though, I love the decor in this spot and their menu is extremely enticing. I think now that I’ve been, I’ll know better what to order next time and head there for dinner instead. You haven’t lost me yet…
