The Queens’ Table - Cafe Roze

BENNETT JASON

Presiding Queens: The Countess Casanova @casanova_loves_you, Vidalia Ann Gentry @ vag4short, Perplexity @queenperplexity

Welcome to The Queens’ Table, a new monthly dish celebrating Nashville’s most coveted destinations for food, cocktails and atmosphere, as experienced by Nashville’s most decadent drag performers.

This month’s gathering place is tucked away in the Porter Crossing neighborhood of East Nashville. I remember the first time we went to Cafe Roze, the first impression was inviting and authentic in its cafe style ambience. We ordered up some Roze Latte’s and sat outside to take in the mellow, charming neighborhood. This cardamom and rose infused bit of morning happiness has truly become a daily ritual.

Morning bites to swerve one’s nerves include a frozen berry bowl with coconut and chia seeds. This with a drizzle of honey? ... OH HONEYYY!

Come back after dark, and the space, once bright and fresh, transforms into an intimate and warm gathering space to enjoy clean and healthy dishes with creative and sumptuous craft cocktails.

Cafe creator Julia Jaksic began at famed NYC hotspots like Employees Only and Jack’s Wife Freda, before bringing her passion for detail to Nashville, debuting Cafe Roze 2 years ago.

“Roze is so chic and effortless. I’m such a pushover for a marble bartop,” Casanova mentions as we settle in with our first drinks, a round of the Botanica. This silver tequila cocktail is paired with cucumber, lavender and garnished with an edible orchid. Vidalia Anne Gentry felt “fresh, floral, and fancy” after living that summertime fantasy.

“The flavor of this dish is beyond words,” Perplexity gasps. It did get super quiet as the girls took this dish in. And for a hush to fall over this table, that’s no small feat.

Next, the small plates! Grilled Halloumi with spiced peaches, pecan dukkah and crispy fried shallots. Chili Eggplant over quinoa, salsa negra, green herbs and a charred orange vinaigrette.

We finished the pre-entree extravaganza with the Shaved Celery and Fennel Salad with fresh ricotta, hazelnuts and lemon vinaigrette.

Killer bartender Martin surprised the ladies with an exclusive shot fit for queens! The Queen’s Snaquiri, a shot comprised of 2 kinds of rum, a pineapple shrub, sugar and fresh lime. Some kind of fabulous!

The entrees built enough suspense for the ladies’ lashes to curl all by themselves. We had the Trout a la Talla, with tomato pepper marinade, topped with fresh basil, mint and vinaigrette. A pescatarian’s delight! Next came the Harissa Spiced Chicken on a bed of croutons and fresh herbs, cooked to absolute perfection.

All the fare at Cafe Roze is light, fresh, balanced and unforgettably fla- vorful. A huge thank you to manager Paige for her impeccable service and warmth. This experience was genuinely above and beyond all expectations. Our compliments to the chefs! These palate masters live up to Julia’s vision for sensual ambiance, healthy and decadent food, and innovative cocktails.

Cafe Roze is a Nashville destination for anyone looking to enjoy the best this city has to offer. Until next time, fierce foodies! Much love and good taste from The Queens’ Table.