Christopher's vs Vincent on Camelback: Tarte Tatin Tete a Tete

Photo by Amy Morris

Vincent's Tarte Tatin

​You could say that tarte tatin is a fancy apple pie without the spices, but that doesn't begin to describe this wonderful dessert. Done right, it's made with caramelized apples and cooked upside down with the crust on top, then inverted for your tasting pleasure. This is one dessert that not many places offer, but we discovered it at two of our favorite French-inspired restaurants in town. And thus, this week's battle of the dishes--tarte tatin style--between Christopher's vs. Vincent on Camelback.

In one corner: Christopher's
2502 E Camelback Rd. Suite #102

The set up:
Hidden at the back of Biltmore Fashion Park -- literally next to the parking garage -- you'll find this impressive restaurant dishing up fare with an open kitchen you can sit next to, or a quiet table where you can still see the chefs cooking. Even the adjacent Crush Lounge followed the theme of sleek and modern with comfortable lounge chairs and couches to choose from. This is one place wanting you to feel at home in.

Pros:
Christopher's tarte tatin was a simple take on the classic dessert. The puff pastry crust was very light and sweet, which complemented the taste of the freshly baked apples. The apples themselves were caramelized perfectly. Fresh berries were served alongside it and tasted excellently with the tarte tatin. Not to mention, the presentation was beautiful.

Cons:
The vanilla ice cream served alongside was very icy and disappointing. There could have been more apple caramel sauce served with it; what was on the plate was very quickly eaten up within the first couple of bites.