Chefusion Green Bay, WI

Restaurant Review of Chefusion Green Bay, WI

By Patricia Summerfield
June 24, 2009
An exciting new restaurant opened in west downtown Green Bay called Chefusion. Chefusion features eclectic cuisine prepared by Chef Robert "Tony" Phillips who does double duty as part co-owner with Cathy Lesandrini. As I drove up I noticed they offer valet parking for $5.00 and if you spend a minimum of $50.00 it is reimbursed. I took advantage of this service since it is so much more convenient. The interior of the restaurant is done in a contemporary elegant style with dark colors of black, maroon, gold, and greens with slate and hardwood floors, copper ceilings, and brick walls which were beautifully done with faux painting. I was impressed to learn that they did most of the work themselves. Upstairs in the fusion lounge they offer a gourmet causal menu with a full bar that serves specialty drinks made from scratch, an extensive wine list, a variety of specialty tap beers, and house infused spirits. I was offered a free sample of the cucumber infused Rum. The flavor of the fresh cucumber was very distinct and clear, how fun! I also ordered a mojito, which was hand muddled and delicious, so far one of the best ones I have had in Green Bay. There was plenty of staff on that night everyone was extremely personable and professionally trained. The lounge also offers live entertainment and booked later this month is one of my favorites, the John Kelley quartet.

I then went downstairs to dine off Chefusion's formal menu; as I was walking downstairs I noticed it is very loud and the echoes can be annoying, especially while you are dining. Maybe some type of rubber matting or carpeting could ease the noise. In the background classical music was playing which added to the ambiance. The table was set with white linens, silver plates, and a votive candle. My server was friendly, polite, extremely knowledgeable, and professional with considerable experience from all her travels and past positions. I selected a nice red wine and for starters I ordered the artisan cheese platter for $12.00, it was presented nicely and consisted of different domestic and artisan cheeses, prosciutto over a slice of cantaloupe, Mediterranean olives, honey comb, fig spread, and house made crackers. Also brought to the table was a trio of hummus, olive tapenade, and olive oil with balsamic vinegar and a basket of dinner rolls and bread sticks. Everything is made in house, it was all delicious and of good quality.

I then ordered the Heirloom Tomato and Watermelon Salad for $8.00. It was creatively presented on a round paper thin slice of watermelon and consisted of diced watermelon, feta cheese, raw slivered almonds, basil, and mini greens with extra olive oil; the combination just blooms in your mouth, excellent. During the course of the meal I was asked if I would like a wedge of lemon or lime in my water glass, I was then brought out a lemon wedge on a clear cordial glass on a plate with a paper doily. Also I never needed to pour more wine or ask for more water throughout the evening. When I left to go to the restroom I noted the server had refolded and replaced my napkin on the table next to my plate. For my entree I ordered the Gourmet Lobster Pie for $39.00. It consisted of tender chunks of lobster surrounded in a morel black truffle Brandy sauce topped with a butter pastry crust and asparagus placed on the sides. The only thing I can say is, the flavor and texture was exquisite heaven in my mouth; it brought back memories of the black truffles I had in the Umbria region of Italy and the pastry was so light and flakey, wonderful, I finished every last drop. I was not planning on ordering dessert, but they had creme brulee which is one of my favorites, it cost $5.00. The brulee flavor was creamy and sweet but it had the thinnest consistency that I have ever tasted. During the course of the evening the owners separately introduced themselves and explained different features of their restaurant; they are very warm and friendly people. It truly was a delightful and lovely evening.

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