Chef Patrick Hennessy spent time at many top spots, including Eleven Madison Park in New York, but he is clearly at home at Barbara. The kitchen feels like a stage, with guests perched at the L-shaped bar watching with bated breath as he performs culinary magic. 
Should you wonder where each item hails from, Chef Hennessy is happy to oblige (hint: it's local and sustainable), but most are focused on the here and now thanks to his refined techniques and sensational flavors. Oysters with local Northern Divine caviar are impeccable; crisply fried slices of Japanese eggplant with local honey and chermoula are delightful. Simple-sounding broccolini is cooked to precise tenderness, then plated with perfectly toasted almond romesco sauce for a sensational bite.