As we have reported previously, the former Foster’s space in Cameron Village has been going through a very major renovation into a new restaurant, Nelsons. We are happy to report that they are edging closer to their opening date in the coming weeks. The date is not definite at this point, but we will be sure to let you know when they have a date set.
What we do have for you, though, are copies of their menus and some notes on the interior design to give you a feel for what kind of restaurant it will be. Let me just add an editorial comment here by saying that I am very impressed by it all. The menus are exquisite, their offerings are varied, and the place sounds as if it will be quite the retreat from the outside world. If you click on the image to the right you will be presented with the dinner menu in PDF format. As you will see, it begins with the appetizers, which they refer to as Whet Plates. Some mouth watering options here, but I am personally excited about the Kobe Beef Carpaccio which means I will again have this as an option as Raleigh’s other Kobe beef provider is, ahem, not on my list. Besides this item, you are quickly informed that this restaurant specializes in seafood as 7 of the 10 appetizers come from the sea. It is also evident that this restaurant is gunning for a higher end experience with things like Caviar, Escargot, and Calamari in it’s own ink.
Next up are the items from the Raw Bar, including five different varieties of oysters and two varieties of clams, all served raw on the half shell. The Raw Bar also has its own separate menu (PDF format) which includes the same items along with crustaceans and a steamed oyster option.
Soups and salads are then followed by the Main Plates of the menu. An extremely wide selection is offered here, both in food and price. The cheapest option is the Asian Barbecue at $16.50 with the most expensive being, of course, the Kobe beef which will run you $38 for 7 oz. or $74 for 14 oz. Kobe beef is always expensive, but these prices are less than those at Mura in North Hills. I would say, though, that I am not a Kobe beef connoisseur so I cannot tell you if there is a reason for the difference in price such as cut or quality. But, I am sure that all of it is fantastic. Other entrees include beef tenderloin, rack of lamb, veal, lobster thermidor, several fish options, and even fried shrimp and oysters served with Calabash, NC style breading.
This is all followed with a sweets menu (PDF format) offering desserts and various coffee drinks.
The interior space sounds quite finely finished, with the Raw Bar expensively covered in onyx to give the effect of glistening oysters. There is a wine bar with swivel iron stools covered in expensive Missioni fabric. Upstairs there is what they are calling the Skyline Loft, which also has its own menu (PDF format) offering yet another dining option. The original Fosters bar area will be the bar area in Nelsons as well, but this will now have room for dining, with tables separated by lamps and curved banquettes with high backs offering privacy.
So, as you can tell, I’m excited about this one. We’ll keep a close eye on it and will let you know as soon as we have a solid opening date to offer you.
