The Foundry occupies a spacious corner location off the Pompano Intracoastal with tables running the length of the front and the side. On inclement days, there are plenty of seats under awning. Service is exceptional no matter where you sit.
General Manager Rick Hamilton enthusiastically points out that the restaurant’s design is unique in its use of 19 th and 20 th Century industrial artifacts. The interior is divided into several sections: spacious banquettes occupy the outer perimeter while the main dining area is dominated by clusters of tables and anchored by a bar that has both indoor and outdoor seating. A dazzling two story wall constructed of century old bricks retrieved from a Chicago warehouse is only one element that invokes the past. Restored wooden beams dating back to a 19 th Century tobacco factory dominate the ceiling. Various wrought iron decorative touches and gears harken back to the days when America was the world’s manufacturing powerhouse.
Chef Almodovar’s menu is dazzlingly innovative and always expertly delivered. From the starters, Home Made Classic Polpette are flavorful spheres of adroitly seasoned beef bathed by lively pomodoro sauce and set on cubes of crispy polenta. Touches of basil and ricotta add more pizzazz – it is utter luxury in every bite. Grilled Octopus is just as enticing: cuts of the lightly charred mollusk are tossed with a variety of greens, fresh tomatoes and marinated chick peas. The olive relish and the comfit baby potatoes are delightful touches as is the eight minute egg .
The other side of the one page menu contains a superb list of wines, beer and distinctive bar creations that will make any meal more festive. Happy Hour takes place Monday to Friday (4-7pm) with specially priced drinks and a fabulous bar menu.
Speaking of bars, the popular raw bar located in the rear of the dining room facing the open kitchen is the source of the spectacular Sushi Stack packed with succulent tuna and salmon sandwiched between savory sushi rice, cucumber, avocado, kimchi mayo and a topping of tempura crunchies.
From the mains, the 10 Ounce Filet Mignon was ever so suave and tender resting on a rich farro and wild mushroom ragout plus a cluster of gently grilled asparagus. The Mahi Mahi Sandwich delivered a superlative entree sized filet seasoned just as we requested and partnered with lettuce, tomato, pickled mango plus delectable house fries.
Simply put, desserts are phenomenal. We loved the Roasted Banana Tart and the Two Stage Chocolate Cakes as well as the Coffee and Donuts served with espresso pot de crème. If pressed to make a choice, order all three.
Lunch (try the $15 special) is available Mon-Sat, 11:30 am - 3 pm while Sunday Brunch is served from 11 am to 3 pm. To learn more, visit www.thefoundryfl.com
2781 East Atlantic Boulevard (Tel) 754-205-6977 Open daily