Quick Look: Two's Ramp Menu

By Melissa McEwen in Food on May 5, 2014 3:45PM

Two's ramp risotto with homemade pancetta, Wisconsin parmesan and roasted ramps. Image courtesy of Two.

Two is doing a special ramp menu to celebrate one of spring’s first vegetables. The ramp, a relative of better-known garlic and onions, has a vivid and fresh flavor that works well in a variety of dishes here. But they never get monotonous - Two’s menu is a great example of how many ways ramps can be utilized well.

Weary from a long day at work, I decided to drop by Two since I hadn’t been in awhile. I took a risk and ordered most of the ramp menu. It was a decision I did not regret. A bright green ramp pasta burst with vibrant orange egg yolk when pierced with my fork, mixing with a savory broth of shiitake mushrooms. Outstandingly tender morsels of perch were tantalizingly popcorn breaded and served with dots of creamy ramp aioli. I almost ordered another, but was sated by the rich and verdant ramp risotto speckled with parmesan and their own pancetta.

Admittedly, I also wanted to save room for the dessert. Before ordering dinner, I glimpsed over the regular menu, and a doughnut made out of a biscuit dough caught my eyes. It came out of the kitchen freshly cooked and pillowy, which is really the best way to enjoy such a treat. The surprise was the maple ice cream on top, though, which I expected to taste like maple-flavored cream. Instead it tasted like maple candy, a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy created by reducing the syrup until it crystallizes.

Two is a restaurant that continues to get better and better. They also sport a strong menu of craft beers and ciders. I can’t wait to come here again. However, ramp season is short, so if you are interested in the ramp menu, visit soon.

Two is located at 1132 W Grand Ave.