Proof & Provision

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A former storage space has been delightfully transformed: Proof & Provision is now open in the basement of the Georgian Terrace Hotel.
In contast to Livingston Restaurant+Bar, the swanky restaurant on the main level of the hotel, Proof & Provision has a relaxed setting that encourages guests to "come as you are," says Chef Zeb Stevenson--who will appear in an episode of Chopped scheduled to air on August 7, 2012.

Photo Courtesy Green Olive Media

Proof & Provision's menu is casual and playful, with reinterpretations of throwback classics like pigs in a blanket, grilled cheese and deviled eggs. But these dishes aren't based on family recipes--"my mom was a terrible cook!" admits Stevenson. He first wrote the menu and then launched elaborate cooking tests to tweak recipes until he achieved the taste he deemed perfect for each dish. For the hot pretzels, he spent hours researching high-alkaline options to help achieve the desired brown crust (his eureka! moment came upon discovering that he could increase the alkalinity of baking soda by roasting it prior to use). His chicken wings are brined and then confited in duck fat before they're sauced. No detail is too small in the pursuit of perfection: Ketchup and mustard, along with nearly everything on the menu, is made from scratch.Bold flavors aren't exclusive to the food menu. Alongside artisan-style beers, the drink list includes classic cocktails with creative spins--such as barrel-aging some cocktails on site.
Deviled eggs ($3) with arguably the world's fluffiest yolks and a pickle surprise; chicken liver mousse with blackberry jelly and toast ($3); and the popular Such Sweet Breath cocktail ($8) which is a mix of vodka, hibiscus liqueur, fresh lime juice, lemon jasmine honey syrup and soda:
Shaved prime rib sandwich ($7) with gruyere cheese, peppers and onions and dipping jus:
The onion soup ($5) has a higher ratio of caramelized Vidalia onions and gooey cheese than broth:
Confit chicken wings ($5) includes six wings with sweet and sour sauce plus a mild dipping sauce:

Considering the attention to detail of these preparations, the prices are quite a value. The food quality is a big leap up above most bar food and a tasty treat for humankind.

Bottom Line: This is the sort of place you'll want to frequent so that everybody knows your name and you'll know theirs.  Thumbs up.