The winds of slight change are blowing at Mistral and elements, both owned by Chef Scott Anderson and his business partner, Steve Distler. At these two restaurants impressively rated by food critics at the Philadelphia Inquirer, the New York Times and others, these changes aim to please.
First, Mistral is set to open its patio in early summer, and that’s not too far away. This will double the dining space, doubling the chances to enjoy small plates of fresh, vibrant local fare. Mistral is serving contemporary cuisine for lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and for dinner Monday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., and Friday from 5 to 10 p.m. On weekends, the restaurant is open 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.
Next, elements will be open for Mother’s Day brunch. This is notable as the restaurant recently went to dinner-only Monday to Thursday from 5:30 to 9 p.m., Friday from 5:30 to 10 p.m., and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. On Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, brunch will be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and reservations are required. Customers will enjoy a three-course tasting menu (appetizer, entree, and dessert) for $69 per person for adults, and $39 per person for children 14 and under. The day prior will feature a four-course tasting menu from 5 to 10 p.m. for just $89 per adult, and $49 per child under 14. A nice twist: the tasting menus are not set; customers may select an appetizer, entree, and dessert. And like everything at elements, it’s fresh, local, organic, and sustainable.
In addition to consistently garnering great reviews, elements was again selected in Opinionated About Dining’s 2014 Top 100 U.S. Restaurants, ranking number 20. It cites Anderson and “the terrific ingredients that come from the Garden State, which he utilizes in dishes like diver scallops harvested from the Jersey Shore and served with ham, split peas, and morels, and Anderson’s rice-less mushroom risotto — finely diced mushrooms, mushroom broth, tomato, parmesan, and white truffles.”
Both Mistral and elements boast gorgeous interiors that are uncluttered, clean, and well lighted. Exposed wood and stone combined with creative use of windows means the atmosphere is as delicious as the meal. They are comfortable settings in which to dine and enjoy the company of family, friends, and colleagues. Reservations are highly suggested.
elements, 163 Bayard Lane, Princeton. 609-924-0078. www.elementsprinceton.com
Mistral, 66 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. 609-688-8808. www.mistralprinceton.com
