Communal

I need to start taking my own pictures. Grabbed this wonderful shot from Communal's blog.

Communal

100 North University Avenue
Provo, Utah 84601
801.373.8000

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How much does hype play into our opinions and taste ? Do we often find ourselves liking something, someone, or somewhere, simply because the majority or the elite or popular support and campaign for it? This is something I have had to consider when writing this blog. It started out as a journey of showing the things I like and fine tuning my palate so that I could enjoy the subtleties in Utah’s cuisine culture. Yet, I ask myself quite often if I’m being influenced by these so-called foodies, Gourmets, critics, and high food elites who purport to know the end-all of good food, flavor, and fun. I read most of the Utah publications who have food critics. These include magazines such as SLC Mag, City Weekly and the SLC trib and Deseret News. I check out Urbanspoon often and Gastronomy SLC for inspiration on my blogs but I ask myself just how much am I catering my palate to theirs? I know what I like, I like what I eat but are there times when I don’t like what “they” eat? The answer is, yes and no.

I take most of my suggestions from friends and honestly, from SLC Mag and City Weekly Mag. But the majority of the time, I usually know beforehand if I’ll like a place or not.  There are some exceptions, such as the Dodo and Tin Angel, but overall, my palate has a 6th sense of things when it comes to eating.

When I heard about Communal (from the owners of Pizzeria 712, which I loved!) I was a bit excited but hesitant at all the hype for the restaurant that many in Orem and Provo, consider the best in Utah County. I had to find out for myself.

The setting for the great meal.

The location is smack dab on University in what I call the old-town center (some call it the historic district). It’s located on the corner just down from the awesome Provo Bakery (try the meat pies!). When you walk in, you’ll be overtaken by the upscale set up and communal type seating. During my visit, my date and I had an opportunity to sit next to  a couple who were repeat visitors and food lovers just like myself. It was a pleasant experience and a nice breakup to separate dining seating you find elsewhere.

Communal, similar to Pizzeria 712, is all about local and sustainable. Their products are all found locally from the Niman Ranch Pork, Tony Caputo’s deli cuts, to the apples used in the apple sauce. Even the chocolate they use is internationally ranked #2 chocolate, Amano  (very delicious).

As for the food, it was just as high quality and well done as the Pizzeria 712. The owners of both establishments know how to make food exceptionally well not only to people not used to such well done cuisine but also appeal to more familiar dishes that their clientele has seen. The highlight was definetly the Au gratin which I could eat in an entire casserole dish portion. However, the serving was perfect because the food was incredible. When you eat high quality food, quantity is never an issue because well done food will always leave you satisfied. (Note to buffet lovers. It’s dangerous if you find good food in buffet quantity!)

My meal started off with an antipasto plate with select meats and an amazing slaw.

The next dish was the Niman Ranch pork chop with maple vinaigrette and apples and the Brussels sprouts w/ toasted almonds and  finished off with Au Gratin.

The Niman Ranch  pork chop had an excellent char. It was still a bit dry but moister than pork chops you’d find elsewhere. I find it difficult to consider pork that is grilled moist and juicy but this managed well enough. The flavor wasn’t anything that set it apart from other pork cuts. The maple and apple sauce helped in the flavor and had a slow sweetness that was just perfect for someone who isn’t a fan of sweetly flavored meats and applesauce.

The brussel sprouts were cooked well enough that the sprouts were not wilted and retained a crunchiness. The slight bitter taste of the cabbage was accentuated by almonds that smoothed out the stark flavor you normally find in brussel sprouts.

Brussel Sprouts usually aren't a tasty side. However, when done right, they are a perfect compliment to any meaty dish.

As I mentioned before, the Au gratin is what sold me on this place. Just take a look at this beautiful picture. It’s almost food pornography (not what you think).

You'd be like heaven to taste, I wanna eat you so much. You're just too good to be true. Can't take my lips off of you. (This is about food)

Overall, Communal is the BEST food I’ve EVER eaten in Utah County and is immediately catapulted into my top three favorite spots. If you are in Utah county on a Friday or Saturday night, or any other night, stop by Communal. You will not be disappointed. The food is immensely rewarding for it’s focus on local, sustainable, and smart cuisine. There are no frills or distractions at Communal except for the fun experience of meeting other foodies who are just as passionate about the meal as well.

Meat and Potatoes: The epitome of what I call Caucuisine.

Friend Meter: EVERYONE!