Experimenting with food may seem like a strange notion, and . . . it is. Don't we all hear the words, "Don't play with your food," when we're young? The Commune Social, serving modern European cuisine, displayed creativity and experimentation with food - done right.
The restaurant has an antique feeling to it. Ceilings are left unrenovated, only three tables fit in the main dining area, but the yellow lighting brings a warmth and coziness that binds the place together.
The bar is also well-designed with a smooth steel countertop and a wide glass window that faces the busy streets.
A unique menu design followed the restaurant's theme of making antique look modern. Let's dive into the food.
Roasted Cauliflower - 68rmb
The cauliflower has a perfectly brown and buttery crust on the exterior, which pairs with the gorgonzola curd to form an indulgent bite. The pickled cauliflower includes another cauliflower component to the dish. Pecans and sunflower seeds complement a nuttiness coming from the buttery scent of grilled cauliflower. Strongly strongly recommend this dish.
Bread Basket - 38rmb
Blue Cheese Croquettes - 65rmb.
When you press a knife against the croquette, the melted blue cheese filling oozes out. The bloody mary jam balances out any overpowering scent of the blue cheese, leaving a sweet and tangy aftertaste to the dish.
Pork with hoisin sauce - est 90rmb
The monochromatic plating scheme with the pork crackling, poached pear, and cabbage wedge was artistic in its own way. However, the dish in general was overpowered in flavor by the sweet Hoisin sauce for my personal taste. In replacement of the grilled cabbage wedge, a fresh salad could have been a better garnish.
Octopus with Gochujang Sauce - 138rmb
Although it might be difficult to believe, the octopus crust doesn't taste burnt at all. The Gochujang seasoning probably sped up the charring process. But, it also took the delicacy away from the inherent taste of a tender, juicy octopus.
Complementary cake for birthdays!
Final Thoughts
The Commune Social is a great place to have one on one meetings, as the space is comfortable and cozy but limited. Their serving staff is observant and very polite. The food itself is usually hurt by the barrage of sauces and seasoning that accompany some dishes. However, their dishes are exciting, with new ingredients and cooking methods.
Location: Jingan district, jiangning road, no. 511
I love restaurants that convert spaces like this, it makes the experience of dinning out so much more interesting.