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By Brian Hews
Master Chef Carlos Garcia has been on a roll lately, and is quickly establishing himself as a truly gifted “culinary magicians” here in Southern California.
Garcia, a native of the Pico Rivera area, has once again created dining magic in the exclusive enclave of Costa Mesa by revamping “The Silver Trumpet” Restaurant, located in the always tony Wyndam Hotel located at 3350 Avenue of the Arts, near the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts.
Before cable networks like the Bravo network ever dreamed up “Top Chef,” Chef Carlos Garcia was in the trenches teaching the craft to local high school students in the Cerritos, Artesia, Norwalk area through a culinary arts program he created when he oversaw “Grille 91” at the Cerritos Sheraton Hotel which coincidentally is located just feet away from another upscale performing arts center.
Garcia’s has the flare and dedication in attracting and training some of the best and brightest new chefs, and staff members surrounding him at all times.
Garcia tells Hews Media Group-Community Newspaper that he has crafted a “perfect team” with him at “The Silver Trumpet.” “You have to bring the best out in every one of your employees and to understand the dynamics of crafting great food and a great experience for the patron,” Garcia said.
The setting for Silver Trumpet is modern chic. Classic. Patrons sit in swanky table settings and some sit on sofas with over stuffed pillows and others in round marble in-laid tables and others in private booth areas that can be hidden behind plush white swag drapes.
The food is simply magnificent and truly extra-unordinary.
When you dine, make sure you start out by trying the Crab Cakes with Ratatouille and Citrus Aioli, as well as the West Coast Oysters that are served with Cognac Mignonette. If oysters aren’t your cup of tea, then I suggest starting with the Filet Mignon Bites that is complimented with an incredible side of fresh Roasted Bell Peppers stuffed with a Mancheggo Cheese and Yakitori Glaze.
Also gracing the “Starter” menu are Bacon Wrapped Jumbo Shrimp that are stuffed with Crab and Jack Cheese and yep, good ol’Jack Daniel’s BBQ Sauce.
Garcia has also nailed the perfect “Harvest Corn Cake” that is served with Avocado. Salsa Verde and Spiced Crème Fraiche served on Fresh Cornmeal Cakes.
As far as the “main courses,” Garcia and The Silver Trumpet staff will blow you away with a unique and dynamic set of selections.
The Shortrib Steak is amazing with Gorgonzola & Caramelized Walnut Ravioli. When was the last time you ordered “short rib steak?” This version is plain delightful and leaves you wanting more.
The tradition “Pan Roasted Bone in Chicken” is also a winner on this menu. It is prepared with a Basil-Bacon Mash, Oyster Mushrooms, and Spanish Chorizo.
Meyer Lemon-Honey Glazed Salmon brings out the best in traditional “Atlantic Salmon.” This one comes with bacon, mushrooms, and candied shallots, and citrus vinaigrette.
Also try the Sable Fish that is prepared with pomegranate Gastrique, Cayenne Salt, Pea Tendrils, and Bacon.
If you have any room for desert, and we suggest that you indulge beyond your wildest dreams. Make sure you ask to see the Pastry Chef at your tableside for a full conversation on what’s being drummed up in the kitchen.
The best quality of the new “Silver Trumpet” is that it “proudly” supports local and sustainable farmers, ranchers and fishermen; and designs its menu around food that is in season.
Garcia said that his seafood is wild-caught and all poultry, beef and lamb is free range.
The Silver Trumpet gets a FIVE STAR RATING from Hews Media Group-Community Newspapers. This is one of the best dining experiences in Orange County, if not all of Southern California.
Visit: www.silvertrumpetrestaurant.com.
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