The menu here is not extensive and all á la carte. I decided to order a salad, because the entrées didn’t include much in the way of side dishes. I was treated to one of the best flavor and visual experiences in my culinary life. My large plate contained about four or five asparagus spears, warm and al dente, wrapped with a slice of applewood-smoked bacon and gently laid down on a bed of field greens tossed with vinaigrette. One side of the plate was covered with a bright red sauce, topped with crumbled feta. The sauce wasn’t sweet, and I couldn’t identify the taste (it was tomato coulis I found out later). The combination of flavors was outstanding. I absorbed every drop of tomato coulis with my bread.

For my entrée, I ordered the house specialty, their pan-seared lamb loin topped with a balsamic and port reduction and accompanied by an adorable, little garlic flan. The perfectly cooked medium rare lamb chunks together with the sweet sauce and smooth garlic custard created taste-bud heaven for me! John had an excellent veal saltimbocca with cheddar grits. He enjoyed his meal, but he said he was glad he had some cheese and crackers before coming to dinner – he isn’t used to these small but beautiful portions!! We had a bottle of J. Lohr cabernet, which added to our enjoyment of the meal. With the small portions, we had room for dessert, which is an infrequent treat for us. I had a crème brulee, which was flavored with a hint of lemon – oh, that was good! John enjoyed a strawberry rhubarb crumble with sourdough ice cream ("vanilla with a kick," as our waiter described it).

The Center Café is not an inexpensive night out, but when you have a dining experience instead of just a meal, it’s worth every penny. My only regret is that we don’t live closer to Moab!