Diving into Camperdown Elm’s Culinary Wonders
As a self-proclaimed food enthusiast and Brooklyn resident, I’ve had the pleasure of dining at Camperdown Elm on numerous occasions. This charming, Brooklyn-based restaurant has captured my heart and taste buds with its innovative, seasonally-inspired cuisine and warm, inviting ambiance. From the moment you step through the doors, you’re transported to a cozy, rustic oasis where the focus is on exceptional ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
In my opinion, the true magic of Camperdown Elm lies in its diverse and ever-evolving menu, which showcases the culinary talents of the restaurant’s skilled team. I’ve had the opportunity to sample a wide array of dishes, and today, I’m thrilled to share with you the 10 must-try items that have left an indelible mark on my palate.
1. Grilled Octopus with Chorizo and Romesco Sauce
The grilled octopus at Camperdown Elm is a true work of art. The tender, perfectly cooked tentacles are paired with the bold, smoky flavors of Spanish chorizo and a vibrant romesco sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of textures and layers of flavor is simply sublime, making this dish a standout on the menu.
As I savor each bite, I’m transported to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, the salty ocean breeze caressing my face. The char-grilled octopus, with its crisp edges and succulent center, is a testament to the kitchen’s mastery of high-heat cooking techniques. The spicy, paprika-infused chorizo adds a delightful kick, while the creamy, nutty romesco sauce provides a cooling counterpoint that balances the dish perfectly.
One of the things I love most about this dish is the way it showcases the versatility of octopus. Often relegated to the realm of intimidating or difficult-to-prepare ingredients, Camperdown Elm’s grilled octopus proves that with the right touch, this seafood delicacy can be transformed into a truly remarkable culinary experience.
2. Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Candied Walnuts
When it comes to salads, Camperdown Elm elevates the humble greens into something truly extraordinary. The roasted beet salad is a prime example, with its vibrant, earthy beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied walnuts.
As I take my first bite, I’m immediately struck by the interplay of flavors and textures. The roasted beets, with their deep, caramelized sweetness, mingle with the tangy goat cheese, creating a delightful harmony on the palate. The candied walnuts add a delightful crunch, their toasted, nutty notes complementing the salad’s other components.
What I find particularly impressive about this dish is the way it showcases the versatility of beets. Often relegated to the sidelines, Camperdown Elm’s roasted beet salad proves that these humble root vegetables can be the stars of the show. The careful roasting and seasoning of the beets bring out their natural sweetness, while the addition of the creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts transforms the salad into a truly memorable culinary experience.
3. Pork Belly with Maple-Bourbon Glaze and Pickled Onions
If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent dishes, then the pork belly at Camperdown Elm is an absolute must-try. This succulent, slow-cooked pork is a true revelation, with its crispy, caramelized exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior.
As I sink my teeth into the first bite, I’m immediately struck by the interplay of flavors. The pork belly’s natural fattiness is perfectly balanced by the tangy, sweet maple-bourbon glaze, which caramelizes to create a delectable crust. The pickled onions, with their sharp, acidic bite, provide a refreshing counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the dish.
What I find particularly impressive about this pork belly is the way it showcases the kitchen’s mastery of slow-cooking techniques. The pork is cooked to perfection, with the fat rendered down to a silky, unctuous texture that practically melts on the tongue. The maple-bourbon glaze, meanwhile, adds a touch of sweetness and complexity that elevates the dish to new heights.
As I savor each bite, I’m transported to a cozy, rustic cabin, where the comforting aroma of slow-cooked pork fills the air. It’s a dish that speaks to the very soul, reminding me of the simple pleasures in life and the power of exceptional ingredients paired with skilled preparation.
4. Charred Broccoli with Chili-Lemon Vinaigrette
While Camperdown Elm is renowned for its impressive meat and seafood dishes, the restaurant also has a way of elevating even the most humble of vegetables. The charred broccoli with chili-lemon vinaigrette is a prime example of this, showcasing the kitchen’s ability to transform a common ingredient into something truly extraordinary.
As I dig into this dish, I’m immediately struck by the interplay of flavors and textures. The broccoli, with its charred, crisp edges, is cooked to perfection, retaining a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy florets. The chili-lemon vinaigrette, meanwhile, adds a bold, tangy-spicy punch that cuts through the richness of the broccoli.
What I find particularly impressive about this dish is the way it showcases the versatility of broccoli. Often relegated to the realm of boring or mundane side dishes, Camperdown Elm’s charred broccoli proves that this humble vegetable can be transformed into a true culinary sensation. The careful charring and seasoning bring out the broccoli’s natural sweetness and earthiness, while the chili-lemon vinaigrette adds a delightful layer of complexity that keeps you coming back for more.
As I savor each bite, I’m reminded of the importance of mastering the fundamentals of cooking. By treating even the most commonplace ingredients with the utmost care and attention, the Camperdown Elm team has created a dish that is both simple and sophisticated, a true testament to the power of excellent technique and quality ingredients.
5. Roasted Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan and Truffle Oil
For those seeking a truly indulgent and comforting dining experience, the roasted mushroom risotto at Camperdown Elm is an absolute must-try. This creamy, rich dish is a masterclass in the art of risotto-making, showcasing the kitchen’s impeccable technique and attention to detail.
As I take my first bite, I’m immediately struck by the depth of flavor. The roasted mushrooms, with their earthy, umami-rich notes, are the star of the show, perfectly complemented by the creamy, al dente rice and the salty, nutty Parmesan. The drizzle of fragrant truffle oil adds a touch of luxury that elevates the dish to new heights, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that lingers on the palate.
What I find particularly impressive about this risotto is the way it strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and restraint. The kitchen has clearly put in the time and effort to ensure that each grain of rice is cooked to the ideal texture, with a silky, velvety mouthfeel that envelops the tongue. The generous addition of roasted mushrooms, meanwhile, provides a satisfying, savory backbone that prevents the dish from becoming too rich or overwhelming.
As I savor each spoonful, I’m transported to a cozy, dimly lit corner of the restaurant, where the aroma of truffles and earthy mushrooms wafts through the air. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul, a comforting and indulgent creation that perfectly embodies the spirit of Camperdown Elm’s commitment to seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and masterful culinary execution.
6. Crispy Chicken Thighs with Honey-Harissa Glaze and Roasted Vegetables
While Camperdown Elm is known for its innovative and creative dishes, the restaurant also excels at elevating classic comfort foods to new heights. The crispy chicken thighs with honey-harissa glaze and roasted vegetables is a prime example of this, showcasing the kitchen’s ability to take a familiar dish and imbue it with unexpected flavors and textures.
As I take my first bite, I’m immediately struck by the juxtaposition of the crispy, golden-brown skin and the tender, juicy meat underneath. The honey-harissa glaze, with its subtle heat and sweet-savory notes, caramelizes on the surface of the chicken, creating a delectable crust that adds an irresistible crunch.
What I find particularly impressive about this dish is the way the kitchen has managed to balance the various components. The roasted vegetables, with their charred edges and caramelized sweetness, provide a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the chicken, while the honey-harissa glaze ties it all together with its bold, complex flavors.
As I savor each bite, I’m reminded of the importance of mastering the fundamentals of cooking. The Camperdown Elm team has clearly put in the time and effort to ensure that every element of this dish is executed to perfection, from the crispy skin to the perfectly cooked vegetables. It’s a testament to their culinary expertise and attention to detail, and a reminder that even the most familiar dishes can be elevated to new heights with the right approach.
7. Pan-Seared Scallops with Cauliflower Puree and Pickled Grapes
For seafood lovers, the pan-seared scallops with cauliflower puree and pickled grapes at Camperdown Elm is a must-try. This dish is a true masterclass in the art of balancing flavors and textures, with each component working in perfect harmony to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
As I take my first bite, I’m immediately struck by the juxtaposition of the perfectly seared, caramelized scallops and the silky, velvety cauliflower puree. The scallops, with their sweet, briny flavor and tender, almost-creamy texture, are a revelation on their own. But when paired with the rich, earthy cauliflower puree, the dish reaches new heights of flavor and complexity.
What truly sets this dish apart, however, is the addition of the pickled grapes. These tart, tangy little jewels provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the scallops and cauliflower, cutting through the heaviness with their bright, almost-vinegary notes. The combination of flavors and textures is simply sublime, creating a dining experience that is both comforting and sophisticated.
As I savor each bite, I’m struck by the level of care and attention to detail that has gone into every element of this dish. The scallops are cooked to perfection, with a delicate sear that gives way to a silky, almost-creamy interior. The cauliflower puree is a masterclass in texture, with a velvety smoothness that coats the tongue. And the pickled grapes, with their unexpected burst of acidity, tie the entire dish together in a way that is both unexpected and deeply satisfying.
8. Grilled Hanger Steak with Chimichurri and Roasted Potatoes
For the carnivores among us, the grilled hanger steak with chimichurri and roasted potatoes at Camperdown Elm is an absolute must-try. This dish is a true celebration of bold, unapologetic flavors, showcasing the kitchen’s mastery of the grill and its ability to coax the very best out of high-quality ingredients.
As I sink my teeth into the first slice of the steak, I’m immediately struck by the deep, beefy flavor and the perfect pink-red hue of the interior. The exterior, meanwhile, is adorned with a beautiful char that adds an irresistible smoky complexity to the meat. And the chimichurri sauce, with its vibrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and tangy acidity, provides a refreshing counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the steak.
What I find particularly impressive about this dish is the way it showcases the versatility of the humble hanger steak. Often overshadowed by more premium cuts, this underappreciated piece of meat is transformed into a true showstopper, thanks to the Camperdown Elm team’s expert handling and seasoning. The result is a dish that is both primal and sophisticated, a perfect balance of bold, unapologetic flavors and masterful technique.
As I savor each bite, I’m reminded of the importance of using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. The hanger steak, with its intense beefy flavor, is a testament to the care and attention that the Camperdown Elm team puts into sourcing their products. And the roasted potatoes, with their crisp exteriors and fluffy interiors, are the perfect accompaniment to the grilled meat, providing a satisfying starch that rounds out the dish.
9. Seared Tuna with Avocado, Grapefruit, and Sesame-Ginger Dressing
For those seeking a lighter, more refreshing dining experience, the seared tuna with avocado, grapefruit, and sesame-ginger dressing is a must-try. This dish is a true celebration of bright, vibrant flavors, showcasing the kitchen’s ability to create a perfectly balanced, yet deeply satisfying, culinary experience.
As I take my first bite, I’m immediately struck by the interplay of textures and flavors. The seared tuna, with its crisp exterior and tender, buttery interior, is a revelation on its own. But when paired with the creamy avocado, the tangy grapefruit, and the bold, umami-rich sesame-ginger dressing, the dish becomes something truly special.
What I find particularly impressive about this dish is the way it showcases the versatility of tuna. Often relegated to the realm of simple, straightforward preparations, Camperdown Elm’s seared tuna is transformed into a true culinary masterpiece. The careful searing, which locks in the tuna’s natural sweetness and firm texture, is a testament to the kitchen’s mastery of high-heat cooking techniques.
As I savor each bite, I’m reminded of the importance of balance and harmony in a dish. The avocado and grapefruit provide a refreshing, cooling counterpoint to the richness of the tuna, while the sesame-ginger dressing ties it all together with its bold, umami-forward notes. It’s a dish that is both light and satisfying, a perfect balance of flavors and textures that leaves you feeling nourished and invigorated.
10. Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream
No visit to Camperdown Elm would be complete without indulging in the restaurant’s decadent chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream. This classic dessert is a true showstopper, with its molten, fudgy interior and crisp, golden exterior.
As I dig my spoon into the cake, I’m immediately struck by the satisfying “thud” that it makes, a telltale sign of the perfect bake. The first bite is a revelation, with the rich, velvety chocolate oozing out and mingling with the cool, creamy vanilla ice cream. It’s a flavor and texture combination that is both comforting and indulgent, a true treat for the senses.
What I find particularly impressive about this dessert is the way it showcases the kitchen’s mastery of baking. Producing a perfectly baked lava cake is no easy feat, requiring a delicate balance of temperature, timing, and technique. The Camperdown Elm team has clearly perfected this process, delivering a dessert that is consistently decadent and satisfying.
As I savor each bite, I’m transported to a cozy, dimly lit corner of the restaurant, where the warm, comforting aroma of chocolate and vanilla fills the air. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul, a indulgent creation that perfectly embodies the spirit of Camperdown Elm’s commitment to exceptional ingredients and exceptional execution.
In conclusion, Camperdown Elm is a true gem in the heart of Brooklyn, a restaurant that consistently delivers exceptional, seasonally-inspired cuisine that celebrates the very best of local, high-quality ingredients. From the grilled octopus to the chocolate lava cake, the dishes I’ve highlighted in this article are just a small sampling of the culinary wonders that await you at this remarkable establishment. So the next time you find yourself in the mood for a truly memorable dining experience, be sure to make a beeline for Camperdown Elm. Your taste buds will thank you!