re: Peche or Lilette for my anniversary?

Me and the wife hit Peche for lunch on our way into town. We met another lady friend, which expanded our party and allowed us to try more food than we would have without her.

We started with the smoked fish dip, 1/2 doz. Apalachicola oysters, crab claws, shrimp toast and fried bread. All were good but the smoked fish dip and the fried bread stood out. The crab claws were as I expected. We ordered shrimp toast on the recommendation of the server and they were our least favorite app.

For our entrees: I had the grilled wahoo special with corn and lima beans. The fish was grilled perfectly and was delicious. the wife had a crabmeat pasta. It was equally tasty, rich, with a hint of red pepper spice. Our friend got the fish sticks. they were beer battered fried fish with a dipping sauce. They were good but noting spectacular.

Our dinner stop was Lilette. We arrived a few minutes early and had some cocktails at Bouligny next door. Great ambiance, attentive bar staff and I had a great mezcal cocktail.

At Lilette, everything was up to par. We started with a tuna crudo that was fresh and light. Also had the gnocchi, which were airy, rich and delicious. Since it was out anniversary, we tried the wedding soup. It was good but not as good as the cold crab and avocado soup that was on special. It was the highlight of the night.

For entrees, I had the Kobe strip since I had so much other seafood. It was good, however, the accompanying duck fried potatoes were just OK. the wife got the hanger steak. It was tender and flavorful and the fries that came with it were amazing.

We hit Steins on the way out of town. All in all a great weekend. Thanks to the FDB for its advice.