A New ‘Spark’ On The Scene
contributor | Mar 03, 2009 | Comments 0
Lounge at the base of Wells Fargo Building is non-alcoholic bliss
I don’t even know where to begin this review on the most exciting restaurant to hit Provo in 30 years!
Spark is a whole new style of restaurant and lounge where exquisite trendy cuisine is served for lunch and dinner, and creative non-alcoholic cocktails are served until late night.
When I first saw the word “lounge” in their name, I wondered how a venue serving alcohol as a main focus would fair in Utah County. To my surprise, this upscale lounge features only non-alcoholic beverages — so drink up! We tried the Lycheetini, Apple Martini, and Pinot Noir Grape Juice … total fun and fabulous!
The executive chef, Lauro Romero, recently joined the Spark team and has completely transformed the dining scene in downtown Provo. Romero was a chef at the Bambara restaurant in Salt Lake City, and I have long been of fan of his culinary talents. He treated us to a delightful amuse bouche of Seared Ahi Tuna with Ponzo Sauce before we indulged in our appetizers of Cilantro Shrimp with Jalapeno Tartar, Rosemary Pommes Frits (french fries) with Garlic Aioli, and Thai Spicy Tuna Roll. Unbelievably delicious!
My husband, Ron, had the very fresh Salmon with Watercress Salad and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Meagan, my 17-year-old daughter, had the Fettuccine Pasta with Asparagus, Oyster Mushrooms and Black Truffle Essence. I had the Seared Scallops with Coconut Rice and Shaved Asparagus Salad. I hope no one was watching when we shared our selections all around and licked our plates!
Our waiter was charming and inviting — not the usual stuffy style of service found in this style of restaurant.
The dessert menu is very inventive as they have created sweet desserts with savory names such as Bacon and Eggs Ice Cream, Cream of Hazelnut Soup, and Roasted Pineapple with Pinenut Shortbread. While I found these desserts very fun to try, I may not order dessert in this restaurant next time.
However, this will not deter me from returning to this amazing restaurant again. I’m eager to experience the rest of Spark’s upscale menu. This concept has been long-time coming to Provo, and I find it a welcome change from the many chain restaurants.
The creative genius of the concept is the brainchild of owner Blake Ballard. After living in San Francisco, he became a “foodie” and brought home his love for fine food combined with the social atmosphere of a lounge where community can gather for dinner, drinks and late night nosh.
If you’re looking for something out-of-the ordinary and the freshest new arrival in town, give Spark a visit. And remember to fill your life with scrumptious food and joy!
Mary and Ron Crafts own Culinary Crafts, an award-winning catering company in Orem. Mary also hosts “Culinary Creations,” which airs Saturday mornings on KBYU.
Filed Under: Eating Out
