David Drake - Thanks for the Memories

I just learned that my favorite restaurant in NJ is closing; Restaurant David Drake which is located in the town I currently live in - Rahway.

DD is a rather pricey and precious little mostly French inspired place located in an historic building across from the train station. The chef started his own place after being head chef from another restaurant; The Stage House in Scotch Plains several years ago. Stage House under his helm was fantastic - not so much anymore in my opinion.

I've had so many memorable meals in DD that I can not even begin to describe them. The first one I wrote up on Chowhound.com and it got back to Mr. Drake somehow. He had it linked to his website for the longest time. I was kind of blown away by that, it made me rather tickled that he would appreciate my point of view that much. I'd met him once - was invited to come into the kitchen for quick hello. Nice guy, very unassuming and quite focused on what he was doing.

One of my favorite things about the restaurant was they had a small patio out back. Lunches there were a particular treat. Eating outdoors in the spring and summer in the solitude of this private space was quite lovely and special, Rahway not being known for having these types of atmospheres for dining.

The wait staff were highly trained and I always hated using that term for them. Each of them seemed to know everything about the menu; could answer any question you had, knew every ingredient, knew the wine list back and forth and could make really good recommendations if you weren't sure what went with what. I never had a faulty choice given to me.

I'm really going to miss this place. It's unclear right now if they are closed temporarily or for good. Mr. Drake has left the question open for now, but it does sound like it could be the end for this truly charming venue. I hope that he can resurrect it again - or something similar, and hopefully in Rahway.

Thanks for all the memories Mr. Drake. More than you know.