Friday, August 11, 2006
By John D. Linford
Artisan Grille, on Ogden's Historic 25th Street, is working to be ready to capitalize on the crowds Ogdenites hope will turn out for the movie theater, high-adventure recreation center, and other attractions taking shape on the site of the old Ogden City Mall.
Artisan offers moderate to upscale fare (entrees run $15 to $29), and pasta ($8 to $10), with wine pairings and other specialties still in the works.
The Smoked Shrimp Crostinis characterize chef and owner Craig Steinmetz's penchant for fun. The pronounced crunch of the toasted crostinis, the creamy Gorgonzola sauce, and the smoky flavor of the shrimp finishes with a red-pepper warmth ($6).
Steinmetz recommends the Three Blind Moose Chardonnay ($5 for a glass, $20 for a bottle) to compliment this and other starters.
Craig's own cheese blend headlines his cheese fondue ($7), which comes with a platter of fresh broccoli, green apple slices, and sliced baguettes.
The Artisan's Artichoke Dip is a hot, buttery boat of artichoke, cheddar, Parmesan, and green chiles served with baguette slices ($6).