The Art of Bread and Butter: A Taste of Luxury
In the fast-paced world of dining trends, some things never go out of style. One such classic element that has made a recent comeback is the humble bread basket. Once a staple at suburban chain restaurants, bread baskets are now experiencing a resurgence at more upscale dining establishments.
A recent visit to the chic New York City restaurant Raf’s revealed a delightful twist on the traditional bread basket experience. Instead of offering a standard selection of breads, Raf’s presented a premium “bread course” featuring focaccia, rolls, and slices of sourdough. But the real star of the show was the accompaniments: butter and olive oil.
The ingenious pairing of butter and olive oil in the same container opened up a world of flavor possibilities. Swirling a knife through the softened butter and olive oil created a tantalizing blend of creamy richness and grassy bitterness. The contrasting textures and flavors added a touch of luxury to an otherwise ordinary bread course.
Inspired by Raf’s innovative approach, diners are encouraged to elevate their bread and butter game at home. By serving high-quality butter and olive oil in the same vessel, you can create a simple yet indulgent experience that will elevate any meal. Whether it's a casual weekday dinner or a special occasion, this small touch of luxury will make a big impact.
So the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, don't overlook the bread and butter. Take a cue from Raf’s and treat yourself to a taste of luxury with this simple yet impactful pairing. After all, sometimes it's the simplest pleasures that bring the greatest joy. Subscribe to The Move newsletter for more pro tips and advice from Eater's dining experts.