More Torino Food Porn; Friendly Sushi; And Dangerously Delicious Pies

Chris Cook at Hour reviewed Torino's tasting menu and just like Sylvia Rector's post on the restaurant last week, things get a little steamy. He raves about the food, talks about Torino's backstory, and then Cook describes the amuse-bouche (a single bite offered to tempt the diner before the meal starts) and this happens, "Under the tomato and leafy frisée and up from the bottom of the cup comes a most sinful, luscious cold mousse that's been whipped almost to the consistency of a Chantilly cream. It is culinary sex, a coital union between smoked tofu and avocado. The interruptus is a palate washing from the beer, which goes with it immaculately...Torino's little thimble of food has just smacked me around, leaving a startling, joyful sensation. But it's only the opening salvo of one of the best meals I've ever had in a Detroit restaurant." He gushes over the rest of the meal in similar fashion, and suggests diners experience it now before the pressure and fame change it all. [Hour Detroit]

Over at the Metro Times, Noelle Lothamer introduces readers to Sushi Gallery in Madison Heights, an under appreciated little strip mall restaurant with "warm, welcoming service". It's not too far from Noble Sushi, which Lothamer acknowledges makes it difficult, but ultimately she argues "if you're looking for a more laid-back environment where you can stretch your legs, make friends with the staff, and try some Korean specialties, Sushi Gallery has got you covered. Not to mention that Chef Lee's warm and outgoing personality makes his food taste that much better." [Metro Times]

What does Sylvia Rector at the Free Press suggest for diners in Great Plates this week? The twice-cooked Moroccan duck legs at Assaggi Bistro in Ferndale. She claims that she doesn't usually order the same thing more than once at a restaurant, but that this is the dish for which she breaks that rule. As she explains, "From the fork-tender duck meat to the exotic Moroccan flavors to the gorgeous colors on the plate, it's a distinctive, delicious dish." so that's high praise. [Freep]

Olivia Vizachero over at Strictly Detroit puts in a good word for the S.M.O.G. at Dangerously Delicious Pies in the 3rd Street Bar in Midtown. She says it's as good as grandma's, "It's grandmother Rose good; the whole S.M.O.G. slice is, in fact. For me, that says it all. But since you probably don't know my grandmother Rose, you must go to 3rd Street and try the Dangerously Delicious S.M.O.G. pie for yourself." Savory pies and beer your thing? This is apparently where to find it. [Strictly Detroit]
· Restaurant Review: Torino [Hour Detroit]
· Sushi Gallery: Friendly Rolls [Metro Times]
· Great Plates: Twice-Cooked Moroccan Duck Legs [Freep]
· S.M.O.G. By Dangerously Delicious Pies [Strictly Detroit]