There have been many “Dine” reviews written for Sheer prior to my having eaten there, but unlike all men, all “Dines” are not created equal. Why? Because Sheer has undergone renovations both outside and inside the kitchen. The management has introduced a new Chef de Cuisine, Chef Christian Ghisays, alongside Sous Chef Ramon Perez. The grand reopening was held last week, I was able to snag a space, and so I thought to write about what it was like. Sheer is located on #44 Front Street and shares an alleyway with Philipsburg Catholic Community Centre.
What I loved most about arriving at Sheer was the valet parking. We all know it's extremely hard to find parking in Phillipsburg and this dissuades diners from ever wanting to eat in that vicinity for that reason. Because of that one courtesy, I was put in a more positive mindset to experience the evening.Another great feature about the restaurant is its seclusion. If you don't know where to look, you may pass it by without knowing.
The name Sheer was not ironically given, as diners can see much of what is happening outside; but because of strategic lighting, the people passing by can't. The lighting sets the mood for a very romantic evening and the floor to ceiling mirrors add a very intimate touch. The surroundings are very selfie- or date night photo-friendly.
My party and I were seated close to one of the huge glass windows coyly shrouded by sheer curtains. There was ample space to sit freely and arrive without a booking, but once the restaurant business increases, it is suggested that diners make prior reservations. The Sheer dining room was almost empty when I arrived; this allowed the servers to be incredibly attentive. The food arrived promptly and didn’t take long between when it was first ordered and when it was placed on the table.
Sheer serves Caribbean cuisines and based on the menu tends to focus more on a mixture of French and Italian influences. The portions smaller than local restaurants would provide, but they are not as small as you would receive in a traditional French restaurant, which is actually a saving grace, because I was quite hungry at the time and not in the mood to dine on air as I have done at other establishments. The rack of lamb with garlic mashed potatoes was what caught my eye and I ordered that as my entrée. The highlight of my meal was most definitely the goat cheese. This visually tantalizing dish came to me on a throne of white porcelain beautifully garnished with fresh dill and red leaf lettuce. The goat cheese was wrapped like a present in pastry filo. Unfurling each layer to get to the goat cheese filling was reminiscent of Christmas morning. Anticipation grew to joy as I got to the centre and found an extra layer of caramelized red onions with a hint of fruitiness. The addition of the sweet onion additive cut down on the extremely savoury dish and created a layer of flavour. The main course was artfully displayed with colourful flavours. The rack of lamb was well done, where I usually prefer my red meat closer to a medium temperature.
The entire experience was one of great enjoyment which I would urge others to have at least once.
Info:
Sheer Restaurant
#44 Front Street
Philipsburg
Phone: +1 721 542-9635
Open: Check http://www.sheerrestaurant.com for opening hours
Cuisine: Caribbean
Good: Service, ambiance
Price range: $$$
Ratings:
Staff friendliness: ****
Service speed: *****
Restaurant cleanliness: *****
Food quality: ****
Value for money: ****
Ambience: *****
