A Visit to Nosh for Hot Chalkboard Dining

by Steven Doyle

Avner Samuel has figured out the formula that makes people line up in Dallas. First, he hired a top level chef in Jon Stevens and made him a partner at Nosh Euro Bistro. Next Samuel sought out fantastic wines at a admirable price point. Then he took all the elements, coupled with his brilliant and demure location and created a list of dishes that are simple, palatable, and at a perfect price point that allows the neighborhood to make repeat visits with fervor.

It also doesn’t hurt that Nosh is open all day for those that prefer lingering lunches. It is not uncommon for a successful business lunch turn into an all day wine challenge, or to see lunching ladies of leisure enjoying a late afternoon Nosh.  

Chef Stevens keeps the menu fresh and lively. The darlings of the menu continue to be dishes like their fresh Red and Yellow Roasted Beets that are served with baby arugula, goat cheese, pecans & raspberry vinaigrette (9), or the Pan Roasted Halibut with Spanish chorizo, spicy peppers & black olives (24).

On the most recent visit we witnessed The “Big Fish” for Two served Mediterranean style  (sold at market price). The three and a half pound fish is breath-taking and makes for an impressive presentation. With proper sides, the dish could very well feed a party of three or four for a lighter meal.

With all this told, the true treat for diners are the specials found on a chalkboard prominently displayed near the omnipresent bar, and can be viewed from every vantage point across the room.

There we found some beautiful dishes including a Braised Pork Belly with creamed broccoli and spicy tomato chutney (11) as well as a Jonah Crab Salad made with mango, avocado and a Meyer lemon aioli (12).

Larger new found favorites also include a rich Bouillabaisse (18) and Seared Diver Scallops served with white corn, chorizo and a creamy couscous (19). The board didn’t mention the fact that the dish was served with a bacon jam that is haunting. Well it is, and it does.

Potato Latke, Salmon, Creme Fraiche and Caviar

The solid dishes are about to be replicated soon in Plano at the Shops at Legacy where the chef is currently seeking out a Chef de Cuisine to take that role, and we even heard a vicious rumor about the desire to be located in Oak Cliff.