Galveston.com Review

If you are looking for a quiet place for an absolutely scrumptious dinner where food and conversation are #1, this is it! We were bowled over by the charm of this 20th century cottage that has been converted to an intimate dining establishment. And, dining is the operative word: here we had excellent appetizers [shrimp in breading and fruit covered in melted brie], salads with blush-wine vinagrette, grilled-to-perfection salmon on a bed of parmesan grits, beef medallions, lightly-crusted snapper [a ‘specialty'], and "to die for" dessert. The Bananas Foster, while not the flaming dish we expected, was ever so much more. The flavor just burst in your mouth and the white chocolate key lime "fool" was smooth and flavorful to perfection.

To complement this divine [my word] meal was Clayhouse Adobe Red wine, a blend of several reds that seemed to go with everything on the table; a real "find."

The wait staff was friendly and attentive without being overbearing and combining that with outstanding presentation of food, perfect ambience [did I mention quiet?] and decor, I give it a rating of ***** [out of 5].

Cost for two adults [including the wine] was $140 giving it $$$-$$$$. Not for the budget-minded, but oh so wonderful for a special occasion.

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This addition to Galveston's food destinations is set in a historic neighborhood, in a beautifully-remodeled cottage. We were met and greeted at the door; felt almost like going to a friend's house for dinner. Dining areas are small rooms with a few tables in each. Decor is tasteful, lighting low, and background music unobtrusive, allowing for private conversation in a peaceful setting. There is a secluded outdoor patio which will be lovely in cool weather.

Feeling festive, we ordered wine from the admirable selection, and were not rushed to order by our friendly waiter. For an appetizer we decided to go for the Zucchini Corn Cakes, with pulled pork, red cabbage and tomatillo sauce. The tender cakes were piled high with the slightly spicy and sweet mixture of meat and fresh veggie. The subtle flavors made a delightful combination. The large serving—three cakes—could have been a meal in itself. But we didn't let that stop us!

I ordered the Corn Dusted Red Snapper with sweet potato puree and orange, jicama and radish slaw, served with lightly steamed zucchini strips. The snapper was fresh and delicate and the dusting was complementary. The sweet potato puree was delicate and the slaw was light and delicious. My companion ordered the stuffed pork tenderloin and balsamic reduction, stuffed with apple, jalapeño, and bleu cheese. This was a hearty dish and a creative combination of flavors. Entrées all include a house green salad, attractive combinations of leaf lettuce with apple slices and sweetened pecan pieces in vinaigrette dressing. Servings of everything were quite generous.

We had been encouraged by a friend to have Bananas Foster for dessert. But when our waiter described the white Chocolate Key Lime Fool we could not resist. Warm summer evening, cool dessert! It was thick and creamy—almost minty—and while it was rich it melted in my mouth and disappeared. A perfect closure for our meal.

The presentation of everything was beautiful. The food was creatively prepared and delicious, with unusual flavor combinations. Service was attentive but unobtrusive. 901 is a fine addition to the Galveston restaurant scene, bringing us an alternative to large dining rooms and predictable menu choices.