French Martini, Old Fashion, Lychee Martini, and a Spicy Margarita– quite a tasty way to start our evening seated along the extensive, illuminated bar at Muse@ the End. Located just off the circle on Euclid Avenue in the heart of Montauk Village, Muse is a restaurant for all seasons. Summertime dining with the front windows open to a lovely breeze, or sitting outside on the patio is part of the charm of this popular dining venue. However, off season it’s just as welcoming, in a warm cozy kind of way. We often stop in to sit along the bar or at a high-top and enjoy some of Chef Larry’s tasty creations.
After sipping our cocktails for a bit, Mario escorted us to our seats in the main dining area. There we met our waitress Becky who informed us that Chef Larry would be preparing some of his popular favorites as well as a few seasonal dishes for us to sample. Beginning with apps, we enjoyed the Cauliflower Tempura and their famous Stuffed Chopped Clams. Tossed in a sweet chili teriyaki glaze, the crisp tempura fried cauliflower is bursting with flavor and texture. Served with a delicately crisp top, the tender chopped clams are accented with a well-balanced blend of buttery herb and smokey goodness.
From the creative salads on the menu, which due to the availability of adding your choice of protein, are wonderful as both a starter or main dish, we had one I’ve never tasted here before- the Chopped Salad. This salad is comprised of a delicious blend of flavors and textures; lettuce, tomato, bacon, and red onion chopped then topped with a light blue cheese dressing.
Due to the array of entrees from land, sea, and pasta along with the daily specials menu, a children’s menu, and even a few glutens free options, dining at Muse just about guarantees that there’s something for everyone. In addition, many of their items can be ordered as individual or family style- perfect for sharing. In the past, we’ve enjoyed many delectable meals including the Day Boat Fresh Sea Scallops, Whole Sea Bass, Doble Pork Chop, Marinated Ribery Steak, Linguini with Clams Sauce, and the Rigatoni Bolognese.
From the extensive wine list, we decided on a few robust glasses to enjoy with our mains. Becky arrived with the first two of the beautifully presented, tender, and flavorful dinners: the Hoisin Roasted half Duck and the Roasted half Chicken. The chicken has a gentle shallot and mushroom demi-glaze, and is accompanied by scallion mashed potatoes and caramelized carrots. While the hoisin glaze on the duck offers a rich, sweet, and savory flavor which is perfectly paired with fried rice.
Cooked to a perfect medium-rare, the 14oz Grilled Prime Shell Steak is served with a dainty bacon wrapped bundle of asparagus and a baked potato with a crisp, golden-brown exterior and a tender soft interior. Rounding out our menu of warm and cozy ‘feel good’ meals was the Fluke Francaise. The flakey tender fish was adorned with a delicate lemon-butter white wine sauce, dished with sauteed spinach and homestyle creamy mashed potatoes.
Dessert? Well of course! Dense and creamy NY Style Cheese Cake with a graham cracker crust served with a raspberry drizzle, was plated along with a slice of warm naturally sweet Homemade Apple Pie created with a savory streusel top and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. An ideal ending to our evening, heartwarming decadence on a plate. Be sure to check with your server for the list of yummy dessert selections.
Satisfying and delicious, our meal was like being welcomed home by mom with a home cooked dinner after an extended absence. Whether you’re in the mood for some warm cozy winter comfort food, seaside specialties, soup or salad on a cold afternoon, or just some apps to nosh on while enjoying a cocktail at the bar, Muse has it all: Daily Happy Hour and Lunch 1-4pm, $39 Monday Steak night or Wednesday Lobster Bake, Thursday and Sunday Ladies Night specials as well as $39 Prix fix, and even Live Music on weekends.
Looking for a Fun and Tasty New Year’s Eve Celebration– Muse @ the End is offering a perfect destination. A $99 -4 course menu with many options to choose from, Champagne Toast, and Live Music, as well as Drink Specials. Seatings are available 5pm-8pm or 8pm to closing, and if you Book Early you’ll receive 10% off your tickets!
For additional information, go to https://www.museattheendmontauk.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/museattheend/, or call 561-238-5937.