MONTE’S DOWNTOWN

The Second Decade

It’s a pretty big deal for any business to celebrate 10 successful years. But for an indie restaurant—such as Monte’s Downtown—it’s a very big deal. The beloved Fargo restaurant celebrated its landmark anniversary in October of this year and new owners Dan Hurder and Christian D’Agostino plan for an equally successful second decade.

“Monte’s was one of the first fine-dining restaurants in Fargo and has always tried to remain ahead of the curve,” partner Dan Hurder said. “Part of the reason we think it has done so well is because Doug and Gene were involved with the Downtown Community Partnership. Monte’s has grown right along with the downtown area.”

Monte’s new owners have a rich history of restaurant experience together, so when D’Agostino approached Monte’s original owners Doug Scraper and Gene Finneman— whom he’d known for years—the acquisition and transition of ownership was delightfully smooth. Because they want to carry on the important business relationships Scraper and Finneman started, Hurder and D’Agostino have begun work with the Downtown Community Partnership and will continue with their Chamber of Commerce involvement. These gestures help to ensure another successful decade for the restaurant.

Of course, the menu will help ensure that—as well as the setting.

You’ll find the ambiance at Monte’s is impeccable, just what you look for in an upscale setting. The artwork is remarkable, the tables traditionally spotless in white linen, and the lighting is kind to all. The bar is wellstocked and creatively yet courteously served and is admired as a great place to meet and greet new faces.

“Christian and I don’t plan to make huge changes regarding the core concept of Monte’s,” Hurder noted, “but we’ll add fresh menu items and seasonal features to highlight Christian’s talents; we’ll continue to embrace new trends we see coming in from New York, Chicago, and L.A. to offer FargoMoorhead a cutting edge dining experience. We’ll continue to nurture Monte’s impressive wine collection and we’ll insist on the kind of service folks have come to expect here: the drink arriving rapidly at your favorite table, the impeccable attention to detail, the warmth and care that makes a meal here an unforgettable experience.”

Why else would you eat out, if not for an unforgettable experience? Monte’s Downtown is a superb first date choice; you’re sure to impress! Travelers find their way there via the nods from area lodging staff, and out-of-town holiday shoppers plan a special night each and every year to punctuate their trip.

Whether you enjoy Monte’s once a year for a special anniversary celebration or dine there several times a week as a regular, you know that the menu does not disappoint. Here is a sampling of some of the entrees D’Agostino has featured since the transition:

- Shrimp and scallops in a spicy red curry sauce, with sugar snap peas, shiitake mushrooms, carrots, and coconut jasmine rice.

- Grilled venison medallions with a marsala reduction, broccolini, raisins, and pine nuts paired with an apple cheddar bread pudding.

- 12 oz New York strip, topped with a roasted shallot demi-glace, paired with garlic mashed potatoes and chive butter.

- Braised duck breast paired with fresh raspberries and strawberries, pomegranate syrup, and rice medley.

At the moment, the restaurant is ramping up for a special holiday season. Hurder is quick to assure that Monte’s will still be available for private parties. “It’s really a wonderful place to have your company party,” he said. “We offer an intimate, warm setting and a memorable menu. What a great way to thank your employees for their hard work this year … or to start the New Year on a positive note!”

To get you into that holiday groove, try one of D’Agostino’s favorite holiday traditions:

Croissant and Chocolate Pudding with pistachio gelato, salted caramel and fresh berries

2 pounds croissants - cubed

2 cups chocolate chips

1 qt. milk

1 qt. heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

12 whole eggs

1 cup sugar

1 cup honey

Combine all ingredients, except chocolate chips and croissants, with whisk then add chips and croissant. Let soak 30 minutes then bake in water bath for one hour in pan at 275 degrees. Serve hot with pistachio gelato, caramel and fresh berries.

Sure to be a hit this holiday season! [AWM]

If You Go:

Monte’s Downtown

Owners Dan Hurder and Christian

D’Agostino

220 Broadway

Fargo, North Dakota

For reservations, please call (701) 526-0149

To make online reservations: www.montesdowntown.com