BATTLE OF THE BISQUE!

One of the topics that I really wanted to get done over the wintry months was a blog post focused on BISQUE because it is one of my absolute favorite things! So, now that it is hot and muggy outside I figured I would go ahead and make it HOTTER by BATTLE OF THE BISQUE!

**Keep in mind, these are all Lobster Bisque to create an even playing field**

Contestant #1: Ocean Prime

Lobster Bisque with Sweet Corn Fritter

I felt this was not too large of a portion but still very hearty. Lots of HUGE chucks of Lobster, Corn and Red Pepper. I really was not a fan of the Corn Fritters - they seemed a bit soggy after sitting in the Bisque for a short amount of time. Also, the Corn Fritters were very bland. 

This Bisque could use a KICK!

Contestant #2: Mister G's

Blue Crab & Lobster Pot of Bisque, VSOP Cognac Cream and Caviar

 First of all, this was not a pot of Bisque - it was a large soup bowl. This Bisque was very rich and creamy with many Lobster and Crab chunks. I felt this really needed a handful of sea salt and black pepper as the heavy cream seemed to take over. The VSOP Cognac Cream needed DOUBLE the amount of Cognac to really amplifiy the flavor. Honestly, if it weren't for the chucks of crab and Lobster I would be bored. OH - and the Caviar - it gave it a nice crunchy texture but was taken over by the rich creamy soup so I felt it was a waste of perfectly good caviar.

Contestant #3: Old Hickory Steakhouse at Gaylord Texan

 Lobster Bisque - Old Hickory Steakhouse Specialty

Unfortunately, the wine was flowing by the time my Bisque course was presented to me so I will do my best to create a mental image for you. A warm bowl is set down in front of you filled with lovely chucks of poached lobster tail by one waiter. Following that waiter, another polite waiter pours in hot Lobster Bisque on top of the Poached Lobster Tail. This Bisque is a bit lighter than the others with a heavy cream base but it is more velvet-y. There is a touch of warmth from the spices in the Bisque which really piqued my taste buds. I did not feel the need to add any salt or pepper to this soup. I pretty much just wanted to take a bath in the Bisque with a huge glass of Stags Leap Petite Syrah (which is the wine we had with dinner this evening).

AND THE WINNER IS.... (drum roll, please...)

 OLD HICKORY STEAKHOUSE AT GAYLORD TEXAN!!!!

This Bisque was absolutely perfect. I really would not change anything about it (and that's saying something!).  I cannot wait for the chill of the fall and winter to come back so I can enjoy my next Bisque season.

LOTS OF LOVE! KIM