Man, I love this place. Yes, the food is delicious, market-driven, and unfussy but the real reason Marlowe holds a special place in my heart is my two year old willingly ate his first bite of Brussels sprouts here. My tiny, carb-loving, self-imposed vegetarian (who hates vegetables) wolfed down a plate of Brussels sprout chips faster than Joey Chestnut gulps down a barrel of hotdogs. I have to wipe away a tear as I type this…
Since it’s located right behind the Caltrain station, I’ve always wanted to come here with my rugrats for our bi-monthly family dinner in the city. I was hesitant to do so since it didn’t seem particularly kid-friendly when I dined here a couple months ago. However, I was determined to make a go of it with the kids last Tuesday. Don’t worry, all you kid-haters, I made sure our reservation was early and I was armed with snacks, an iPad, and bribes. Who knew that it would be the hottest fricking day in history and Marlowe doesn’t have A/C? Despite the heat, no melt-downs from anybody (me included).
Even though the menu is small, everything I’ve ordered has been really yummy. This time, the four of us split the Brussels sprout chips, burrata and peaches, little gem salad, roasted bone marrow, Marlowe burger, spiced prawns, and seared halibut. My favorite was the little gem salad – perfect, crisp greens with paper-thin shaved roots, al-dente baby veggies, dollops of creamy smashed avocado, all of which was lightly dressed with a balanced vinaigrette. The Marlowe burger is delicious and my 5 year old proclaimed it the best burger and fries he’s ever eaten. On a previous visit, I also really liked the steak and poulet vert. Damn it, I guess every thing I’ve had is tasty!
If you are bringing kids, please note that there are no high chairs (there are boosters) and the tables are really close together. Plus, you will most likely be seated next to a young hipster couple who will be shooting dirty looks at you for bringing your kids. Just make sure that your kids are well-behaved and you will be fine.
