609 Grille
July 29, 2004
Sexy and darkly lit, the interior is dominated by the stainless steel bar in the center of the cozy dining room. Bedecked with tea candles and hip local artwork, the funky atmosphere at 609 is suitable for almost any occasion.
Sophisticated combinations of flavors are found throughout the menu. Wrought with spicy infusions and a citrus bite, the Caramelized Prawn Salad ($14) in a jalapeno and lime vinaigrette is the most dynamic bed of greens you'll find in town. Entrees range in price from $17 to $28, and while the portions aren't the absurdly large type, they are generous enough to leave you feeling full at the end of the meal. The grilled pork chop (23$) is absolutely delicious - - served with a cooked peach, garlic mash (or polenta if you prefer), and grilled veggies it is an absolutely astounding mixture of sweet and savory.
609 also features a rotating cast of seasonal specials. This past week Famous indulged in a seafood pasta that featured prawns, crab, and artichoke hearts in a rich tomato-basil sauce. The week before that they were serving an excellent rib-eye salad. Everytthing they serve at 609 seems to taste wonderful.
While the service in most Fresno restaurants is chronicly inadequate, the waitstaff at 609 is a notable exception. The simple design of the dining area insures that the needs of your table will not go unnoticed by the eagle-eyed staff.
The Palomino's also keep a well stocked bar and have an extensive wine list. Several monthly parties keep the 609 up past their usual bedtime of 9PM - a monthly post art-hop party and the monthly Nectar series are both great excuses to venture down Olive and soak up some boho atmosphere.
While the food is not cheap at 609, rest assured that you are getting exactly what you are paying for.
The 609 Grille is located at 609 Olive and is open for lunch 11:30 am to 2 pm Tuesday thru Friday and for dinner 5:30-9PM Tuesday thru Saturday.
Disclosures:None.

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