Trinity Restaurant in Keyport

Peter and I decided to take the trip up to Keyport a couple weeks ago to visit the restaurant where our fellow Jersey Biter, Chef Michael d’Ennery, is the Executive Chef. We knew that the restaurant was located in a renovated church but we had no idea the size of the church. When we spotted Trinity we thought for sure that it was a functional church not a restaurant. Only when we got right in front did we see the sign for the restaurant. Holy cow! (no pun intended) the place is huge. What a fabulous venue for a large company party or wedding. They are also hosting themed dance nights which we are really looking forward to.

The restaurant owner, Charlie, and his brother have completely renovated the interior including the addition of a whole second floor that overlooks the first. They had custom iron railings and chairs made as well. It really is such a unique dining experience for our area. It really reminds me of something you’d find in Manhattan.

Ok, so you get that the atmosphere is phenomenal, let’s talk food. Dani, another Jersey Biter and fellow food blogger at The Average Cook, recommended that we try the Catalan Style Clams. Since I am unforgivably (yes God) allergic to clams, Peter had to do the taste testing and he claims the clams are heaven sent. (are these blessed puns getting annoying yet? sorry) Anyway, the Clams are prepared with Chorizo, spanish peppers, cilantro, white wine and a touch of cream. I’ll let Peter add a comment below about this dish. He did go on and on about it to allergic girl which was really getting irritating.

So, allergic girl had the Foie Gras which was lovely. Mike treated me to an extra piece which I devoured in minutes. After the Foie Gras, I felt it was time to lighten things up with some fish even though the lamb was so tempting. I ordered the Harissa Spiced Local Monk Fish which was done to perfection. (Get it, Monk fish, okay I’ll stop) Our very friendly and helpful bartender, informed us that the Chef is “passionate about fish” and it certainly showed in my dish.

Peter had the Hukilau pot (another dish allergy girl couldn’t try) and he kept commenting on how the sauce was amazing. They call it the “spicy shrimp sauce.” Whatever is in it sure pleased Pete. You can read all about the Hukilau pot and the rest of their fabulous spring menu (they change the menu seasonally) by visiting their website at Trinitykeyport.com or click here:
http://trinitykeyport.com/Spring%202008.pdf

Chef d’Ennery suggested we have a Jersey Biters night at Trinity. What do you think? I know Peter and I will be up there again very soon and hopefully for Swing Night. That’s Swing Dancing not the other kind of swing. Geez, it’s in a church for heavens sake.

If you have any questions for the Chef, join us on JerseyBiters.ning.com.

PS: You can help Dani win the “Share Your Discovery” contest on Chow.com by visiting this link and voting for Trinity’s Catalan Style Clams.