Mallard Cottage
With a culinary adventure unlike anything we've ever experienced, I've launched a new series on the blog titled Fork in the Road. It is dedicated to sharing edible exploits linked to our travels.
An 18th Century Irish-Newfoundland vernacular style cottage, Mallard Cottage is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada, as being one of the oldest wooden buildings in North America.
Nestled in the charismatic fishing community known as Quidi Vidi Village, Chef Todd Perrin achieves magnificently the rustic charm of hearty meat and vegetable dishes with a family feel. Needing reservations weeks in advance you'd be surprised by its coziness. From the wide plank wood flooring to the oil lamps perched in the windows, we felt content to sip our cocktails while listening to the folksy hum of Duane Andrews and Darren Browne on guitar. Only missing was a blanket to snuggle up with in front of the wood fireplace, leading to an awkward moment when our waiter has to wake us from our full-bellied slumber.
Speaking of full bellies... Our meal left both James and I declaring we've never eaten better. Priding ourselves on seeking out many culinary talents is to say this declaration isn't made lightly. It doesn't feel silly to profess our food tasted like love and family. You could savor the care in which each dish was created as intensely as the buttery, delicate crust of my quiche.
With my first visit coming to a close this meal was a beautiful way to attribute St. Johns with home. I believe home is where your heart is. That wherever James and I travel we will find ways to make it home and to take a piece of each destination with us to the next. It looks like my stomach can happily reside with my heart here in St. Johns for a while.