Coral Gables is known for its food, in fact it topped Livability.com's nationwide "10 Best Foodie Cities" list in 2015, so it's no surprise that there's always something new and exciting to try. It's hard to keep track of all the yumminess in the Gables which is why many may have missed the opening of Trust and Co. back in January. Jerry Flynn is bringing his A-game in this 6,000 square foot space located on Aragon Avenue. The menu using local produce and fresh seafood is being kept seasonal and will rotate its flavors to keep up with what is freshest and in season. Flynn has also curated a cocktail menu with 30+ cocktails, a nice selection of craft beers, and an extensive wine list.
I stopped in a recently to check out their new spring menu. To start off my evening I went with the '18th hole-fashioned', one of Flynn's many takes on the classic Old Fashioned - Tin Cup Whiskey, Luxardo Cherry Liqueur, Orange Curacao, and bitters. It was delicious with just the right amount of kick and sweetness. It paired perfectly with the Bacon and Date Croquetas. I almost recommend an order per person because they are just that good! It was the only menu item I had tried prior to this visit and I knew the moment I walked in the door that I had to have them again. Next we moved onto the Seafood Tower - oysters, jumbo shrimp, and Alaskan crab leg. I have to make a confession: before this moment I had NEVER had an oyster! I know, it's crazy and I don't know exactly how I've lived for so long without trying one. As a kid I wasn't a fan of slimy, which I think is pretty normal and as an adult I guess I never had them in front of me. I was helped with the preparing of my first oyster by adding the fresh horseradish that is served with the tower and I went to town. So good, I can't believe I've been missing out for so long! The Rock Shrimp is outstanding if you want something with some heat. It's served with Bibb lettuce that helps cool it down. I personally love spicy so I thought it was fantastic, but others that I was dining with said it might be a bit much. If you want to stay away from seafood I recommend the Kalbi Short Ribs with Korean spice. They were tender and cooked to perfection.
I was lucky enough to be dining with a group who is pro-family style so we ordered tons of entrees and shared them. As a kid I hated sharing food but I'm so glad I grew out of it because it's the best way to sample what a full menu has to offer. We opted for the Roasted Half Chicken (executive Chef Pablo Zitzmann said it was his favorite menu item), Short Rib Ravioli, Charred Octopus, and the Duck Breast served with Florida mango salad and mole poblano. All so good that I don't think I can pick a favorite.
Of course then there was dessert. The dessert menu isn't large, there's only four items but they have something for every palette's satisfaction. We spent time chatting with Chef Zitzmann about the development of the desserts and how they are still tweaking the menu to get them just right. The Alfajor dessert started off as a crème brulee and has now transform into more of a classic cookie form. The Lemon Basil Panna Cotta is light, refreshing, and in my opinion needs no changes. I feel the same about the Dark Forest Cake - chocolate heaven! It's one of those rich desserts that's great for sharing because a bite or two is just enough, however I may have hoarded that dessert for myself. The Coconut Cake with whipped cream cheese and orange gel was delicious but needs more coconut. Collectively as a group we voiced that to the Chef who agreed and said it was one of the ones he is still tinkering with in the kitchen. I'm looking forward to eating as many pieces of Coconut Cake as it takes until it's crazy with coconut, so I'll definitely be back!
Jerry Flynn and Chef Pablo Zitzmann are pouring their heart and soul into this place and creating dishes that they feel will keep people coming back for more. They are all about gaining the trust of their customers. Trust and Co. is open for lunch and dinner as well as weekends for brunch. Happy hour Monday - Friday 4pm to 7pm includes a great list of cocktails and bar bites that are not to be missed.