Want to go?
WHAT: Basil’s On Market
WHERE: 312 N. Patterson Blvd., Dayton
HOURS: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Friday; 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday; and brunch only from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday.
INFO: 937-818-4390 or basilsonmarket.com
A day trip or vacation is no longer required to enjoy lavish cocktails and a splendid meal at a waterfront restaurant.
Located across the street from Fifth Third Field, Basil’s on Market has been open since the beginning of August. It seats about 150 inside and another 120 on a large canopied patio that overlooks the Great Miami River and wandering Pokemon players.
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First, drinks: The menu has an extensive wine list, but we were in a fun cocktail mood. We tried the Basil's Mule ($6.50), which features a shot of Tyku Ctirus Liquer. We also had a hankering for the French Pear Martini ($8). Both drinks were great for enjoying the last rays of the sun from our patio table view. Other fabulous drinks: the summery Spiked Strawberry Lemonade ($7) and the Salted Caramel Kiss martini ($6.50), a heavier, creamy drink that will feel as comfy as a fleece blanket when we get a touch of fall in the air.
For appetizers, we tried the Jalapeno Artichoke Dip ($8) and Gourmet Soft Tacos ($4.50 each). The dip, which is nicely warm rather than full-throated spicy, has an extravagant flavor and texture. It’s served with southwest seasoned Saratoga chips. The tacos have a lining of chili-lime slaw with your choice of Cajun spiced shrimp, shredded lobster or pulled pork. We tried both the shrimp and pork versions, and they were both nummy. The price of the tacos is a little steep, but remember, you’re enjoying the ambience and a great location. And they are definitely gourmet.
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For an entrée we split the Shrimp and Chicken Rockefeller ($17.50). More than enough for two people, it comes with spinach-topped gnocchi slathered with caramelized onion cream sauce. We saved enough room for a piece of Orange Creamsicle cake ($7), which came with a rich buttery icing and a generous dollop of whipped cream topped with a maraschino cherry.
We've been to the downtown Troy location before for past Restaurant Week adventures and just because. Other items on the menu worth trying include:
Basil's Signature fries ($6.50): These fries are yumtastic because they are flavored with truffle oil, sea salt and grated Parmesan.
Calamari ($11): The batter is so light. The calamari is served with lemon truffle Parmesan aioli and topped with shaved Italian cheeses.
Lobster Bisque ($5 cup, $8 bowl): This soup is rich and creamy with a hint of sherry and topped with scallion-basil creme fraiche.
Lobster Shells and Cheese with Grilled Shrimp ($18.50): This is as sinfully delish as it sounds.
All in all, it was a memorable experience and would make a great setting for a date night or fun night out with the girls, whether it's dinner or cocktails and apps on the patio.
We’ll definitely be going back to try some other items.
We have our eyes on the St. Louis Ribs ($19), Sweet Chili Grilled Salmon Salad ($14) and the Tomato Basil Bruschetta ($7).
Basil’s On Market also has a gluten-free items as well as a children’s menu and Sunday brunch.
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