Smeraldi's Restaurant

Smeraldi's Restaurant Restaurant Review:

With the opulent Bernard’s now long-shuttered except for private events, Smeraldi’s assumes the lead role in the Biltmore’s dining scheme. One enters the restaurant from the hotel’s grand Rendezvous Court into an attractive, barrel-ceilinged room, while a larger space, sunken a half-flight, features hand-carved ceilings and Mediterranean murals. Service is efficient and friendly, but you are keenly aware you are in a hotel dining room. The Mediterranean-inspired menu features rosy-hued beef carpaccio topped with arugula, lemon juice and olives, while agnolotti is stuffed with braised veal shank and topped with a sauce of porcini mushrooms and truffles. These dishes, as well as homemade lasagna and spicy Kobe beef meatballs, exhibit bold flavors. Steaks, rack of lamb and fish are pricey but ably prepared, and desserts range from chocolate bread pudding to a Key lime tart. The wine list is full of California classics and a few notable Italian selections.