Perron 9, Affolternstrasse, Zurich

Roman Bolt a name which sounds like the strongest legionnaire in Cesar’s army shows up in my mails and tells me in no uncertain terms that I should visit a dining establishment called Perron 9. He happens to know this place since he’s running the venue. Not disclosing wether I was going to visit I did ask for a recommendation as what I should order. Mr. Bolt made some suggestions and boldly stated that he’s sure that will make any food critic happy and I was now very curious to see what type of restaurant would make this type of statement.

One night I venture down there and get a table tucked away at the end of the dining room. The roaring fire in the fire place is quite a cozy touch in the middle of winter and makes one feel comfy. Not straying from the recommendations I get a beer, ask for the antipasti and an Iberico Pork Entrecote. The antipasti where not available but the waitress suggested a cream cheese appetizer with an antipasti brunoise. I actually expected a disaster, but it was a pretty fantastic little appetizer. The creaminess of the cheese and distinct & perky flavours of the various vegetables where a nicely balanced dish.

The main dish an entrecote rack of Iberico pork, cooked on the grill was simply perfect. I got the large portion and literally could have eaten another one. It was perfectly cooked, had depth of flavor and was flowing with juices. This is what every piece of meat should look like! To top things off a nice helping of potato gratin was served together with homemade Cafe de Paris and butter with herbs. Actually I was so happy, I forgot what the dessert was like and won’t bitch about the Physalis.

Honestly… I was thinking some over-cocky restaurateur was trying to peddle some weird concept with bland food on me, but boy… was I wrong. Luckily I am free of biases and I am now a fan of Perron 9. It seems that Mr. Bolt and his team have gotten the details right and are running a pretty good restaurant.