I write mostly about wine and spirits but, on a rare occasion, I am moved to write about other subjects. This is one of those rare moments and the inspiration was a restaurant located in Pittsburgh, PA called Bridge Ten Brasserie. I use the term ‘restaurant’ loosely because this term does not fully describe this establishment. It would be closer to the truth to calling it a French epicurean experience.

The overtly French inspired menu and wine selections are not the traditional selection of the quasi-French bistros I have visited one too many times. The menu is amazingly simple French country cuisine but, make no mistake, the quality of ingredients and the construction of layers of flavor will leave your taste buds wishing your stomach was bigger. The food is equaled only by the incredibly clever selections on an easily navigable wine menu. I cannot tell you how many times I have turned the pages of a tiredly extensive wine menu to be completely unimpressed after wasting 15 minutes of my life. Let me say that anyone can build a wine menu that covers all the requirements but only a skilled few can do it on 1 or 2 pages. This is one of those lists that took me 3 minutes to read and I was absolutely impressed with the diversity of the selections.

The restaurant is the creation of Master Sommelier, David DeSimone. During our meal, I had the opportunity to talk at length with him about wine, Pittsburgh sports, and writing. Let me say that he is the most laid back and non-pretentious Sommelier I have ever met. His knowledge is obvious, as is his passion for wine and food. This is one of the best culinary experiences I have had since I’ve started drinking wine (too many years to count). I honestly can say that if you consider yourself a wine and/or food lover, you must experience this place. Check out the website for more information and reservation information: http://www.bridgeten.com/.

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