Ethnic America

It is interesting, to me, all the debate we have about immigration policies, ethnicity, population make up and how we want to see ourselves and our country. Feelings are obviously based on each of our backgrounds and beliefs, and are reinforced by our personal situation and history.
Yet when it gets time to vote with our stomach or pocketbook we often chose ethnic( foreign food) over the standard American fare. At least in this household, we do.

It is also an interesting fact that there are more Chinese Restaurants in this country than Mc Donald's and several other "fast f0od" outlets combined. Since the last posting we have supported two of them: "China Gourmet" 3340 Erie Ave. Cincinnati OH 45208 (513)871-6612 and "Jans Chinese" 10012 Montromery Rd. Cincinnati OH 45242 (513)891-3100.
Working backwards, this morning(Christmas) we had a Diem Sum Brunch at "Jans" along with three other friends. I really should try to keep a list of all the dumplings, stuffed leaves, and dough covered items that we consume, although that would probably have me losing my place as the items make their appearance. I do remember: Chinese eggplant stuffed with shrimp, two other shrimp offerings, scallops, pork buns; pork, shrimp and veggie mixture wrapped in translucent dough( as are several of the offerings), Fried chive and pork dumplings, Chinese broccoli, yam cakes, pineapple fritters and sesame dumplings and several others that were tasty but which either slipped by my grasp or memory.
One of the participants spends an amount of time in China and he believes that "Jens" can hold it's own against many of the places there. All this very good food comes at a very reasonable price; today, $12/person before tip. The restaurant was crowded and as is usual, at "Jens", from the several times we have been there about half or more of the patrons are Asian.
Wednesday evening at the "China Gourmet" we had a pleasant meal consisting of an egg role, cucumber and chicken salad( both split as an appetizer), a whole steamed walleye pike( also divided) in ginger and scallion sauce and a mixed vegetable of crisp bean sprouts and sliced scallions. The "China Gourmet" has always done fish excellently and some believe it should bill itself as an Asian fish house. The clientele has been supportive for many years and are generally well know to the servers and owners, therefore service is attentive and friendly. Prices are slightly on the high side for what one might expect at a "Chinese Restaurant" although not for a first class "fish house".

Our other venture, this week, was a return visit to "Bombay Brazier" 7791 Cooper Rd. Montgomery OH 45242 (513) 513-794-0000. Because they had a party in the main dining area(hooray) we were seated in their wine room, a lovely quiet spot with either 3 or 4 tables. Once again we put ourselves in the hands of the owners, Rip and Gee, and were delighted with the choices. Starting with "Pappadi Chaat", crisp tortilla chips topped with onion, tomato, green peppers, chickpeas, apples and 3 different ralishes( Rip's spelling) we then proceeded to two main courses. I should mention that the vegetarian, slightly sweet "Pappadi Chaat" was an excellent accompaniment to our drinks and was more than ample for the four of us.
Next came "Saag", delicately cooked and minced spinach and broccoli in a buttery garlic sauce with cream and spices, to which had been added lamb chunks and sizable pieces of fresh mushrooms. Our third item was "Mango Chicken", tandori roasted chicken in onion, ginger garlic sauce with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, spices, mango chutney and mango slices. Sweet and pungent at the same time and a wonderful dish to compliment the "Saag" and white rice with peas, which was placed on the table.
As mentioned, before, we are lucky to have this upscale Indian restaurant added to our dining scene.

Interesting Food, Interesting Places

Our eldest Grandchild, Trisha Wolf, is spending 6 months in Ghana working for a Micro Lending Organization. In her latest report she began by saying that I would be upset if she did not report on the food. What followed was an interesting and lengthy description of some of the things she eats with the family( Fufu, Kenkey and Ampesi) and some "street food" (Akyeke). You can look these items up on Wikipedia, if you can get by the State Dept. cables and gossip.
That got me to thinking of some of the different, or unusually items, we have had in the last two weeks at places you might not consider as serving these. Part of this comes from our friendship with owners and chefs and their knowledge that I love the unusual. It also drives home the fact that "one should not judge a book by it's cover" and that cooks everywhere love to expand their horizon's.

Brunch at Julie Francis' "Nectar Restaurant" 1000 Delta Ave, Cincinnati (513) 929-0525 brought a plate of sauteed Turner Farm Calf's Liver, lightly fried polenta cake and sauteed fresh spinach, accompanied by a smooth chipolte Hollandaise. The liver was tender, done medium( not overcooked) and had been basted with butter and vinegar. The polenta firm and crispy, with out being greasy, and the spinach was bright green and slightly crisp to the bite. it was an outstanding Brunch, which 3 of us enjoyed while our fourth chose smoked trout Benedict, not bad in it's own right.

Saturday night, before Symphony( a Mozart Violin Concerto preformed by Hillery Hahn) I reveled in a special seafood treat at the "Oriental Wok" ( sorry about that Ed) in the Regency, Hyde Park, corner of Dana and Madison Road. Guy Burgess, the chef, and another friend, had called to say he was picking fresh, clams, oysters and crabs, at the airport, which he was going to serve for the next few days. It took us a couple of days to get there and by then he had turned the little neck clams into a wonderful Clam Chowder, but the Oysters had been kept on ice and were still exceedingly fresh. One could taste the sea water in the oyster liquor.
I feasted on a large very hot bowl of beautifully prepared chowder, creamy, but not heavy on flour, with diced firm potato's, chives and of course, bursting with good sized sizzling whole clams. The seasoning was perfect with just the slightest touch of sweetness. The oysters, which were expensive, but you pay for what you get, were also exceptional, firm, flavorful and a full mouthful each. Not wanting to diminish the taste I ate them with a slight squeeze of fresh lemon and no heavy sauce.
Ambrosia for a frustrated coast dweller.
Marilyn who had joined in the calf's liver, at "Nectar", went with the "Oriental Wok's" fine Won Ton Soup and a mixed plate of their wonderful appetizers.

Our dining out, this past week or so also saw us at the "Sky Galley" at Lunken airport, for a week night dinner with friends( Hamburgers) and at "Bonefish Grill" Hyde Park at the corner of Madison and Edwards. "Bonefish" remains a perfectly acceptable, seafood based, chain operation with good food and service. I am partial to their house salad and often ask for a larger portion to augment whatever else I order. On this last visit it was Ceviche.
We have been fortunate to be included in several Christmas celebrations so some of our eating has taken place at the hosts well laden holiday tables, but then it's that time of the year.

Number 275

According to the web-site this is posting #275 in something over 4 years. That's a fair amount of commenting on meals we have eaten out. When I go for a period without posting I do get comments so it seems some of the readers pay attention to my ramblings.

I thought of titling this this entry "Outstanding" as I am about to comment on the meal 4 of us enjoyed at "La Poste" 3410 Telford St. Cincinnati( Clifton) OH 45220 (513) 281-3663, last evening. In my opinion "La Poste" has improved with each visit. Food, service and ambiance all combined to make the evening memorable and this a go to spot.

I usually only report on what I actually eat but since we split several dishes, and everyone tasted some of everything served I plan to give each item, brought to the table, a mention.
Contradicting myself, I was the only one with the "Bombay", which was not shared. Three of us did share a "Wellington" Syrah which had enough body to go with all the food.

We started with a bowl of mussels, plump, cooked perfectly and well bathed in a white wine and butter sauce. Along with that we had an order of their delightful Ricotta Fritters, which are actually sweet enough that they could be served for dessert and hold their own with a dessert wine.
My main course was made up of two different salads; the Lemon Ceaser, which I have had before and which has a very nice tang to compliment the romaine, chopped pimento and sweet pepper strips, and a Nicoise beautifully arranged on a plate with slightly seared tuna and a salmon deviled egg topped with red caviar topping the bed which consists of strips of thinly sliced cucumber enclosing asparagus( french cut), cherry tomatoes and a few pieces of greens. Both salads were crisp, tasty and somewhat complimentary.
Marilyn had their justly famous Mushroom Ravioli, light, flavorful and not overwhelming in taste or portion. Our young women friend had the same. The other man, who prides himself on "eating clean", ( although he did share all items served) had a season salad, greens, pomegranate, nuts and cherry tomato's. His main course was a large perfectly grilled piece of salmon served on what to me appeared to be medium sized grain.
With coffee( not for me) we all shared and order of cherry bread pudding, a true delight and a perfect ending.
To me the evening could not have been better and I certainly put "La Poste" near the top of my "eating out" list.

Nectar

As I thought about our dinner Friday night at "Nectar Restaurant" 1000 Delta Ave( Mt. Lookout Square) Cincinnati, OH 45208 (513) 929-0525 I couldn't help repeating, to myself, the first lines of the refrain of "Swanee", the song Al Jolson made famous. If I'm not mistaken it goes;"I've been away from you a long time. I never thought I'd miss you so". That pretty well sums up my feeling about Julie Francis' interesting, well thought out offerings which she always prepares with style, flavor and attractive presentation.

Julie personifies the "locavor" movement. She has always stressed locally grown, fresh, organic products and items produced by individual small producers who either grow or process into other items that are based on item combinations, such as pickles or kim-chee, jams or spreads. She also has instigated a "Dinner Club" whose four course, price fixed, menu includes one item used in the preparation of all four courses( mustard to mushrooms).

After, you know what(Bombay), I decided to sample 3 first course offerings for my meal.
Starting with Shrimp Fritters I then moved on to salad and ended with a plate of scollop's and sweetbreads.
The Shrimp Fritters(3) were crispy on the outside and moist within. Each contained a medium sized crustacean. They were topped with small dab of mustard, mayonnaise remoulade type sauce and came on a bed of chopped mango and avocado- delightful.
Next the salad, and I should have stopped there, came, filling a large bowl with mixed organic greens, beets, sliced apples, candied pecans and large blue cheese crumbles. The dressing, which seems to me to be an oil and vinegar mixture, whipped and possibly slightly thickened may have had a touch of honey or some other sweetener. It was a meal in itself and the flavors blended beautifully.
My semi-main, course was the combination of scollop's, sauteed, with golden edges and sweetbreads, crisp and mild. They were surrounded by citrus sections, orange and grapefruit, and drizzled lightly with a lemon butter. I am a sweetbreads devotee and I have feeling Julie starts preparing them when we make a reservation.
My only slight disappointment was the shared dessert, which I certainly did not need. It was listed as a pear and Michigan cherry cobbler, with vanilla bean ice cream. I mentally envisioned a light pastry, crisp with lots of fruit; instead it was a fairly heavy dough with some cubes of pear and a few cherries. next time I'll lobby for Cherry Pie Ala mode.
Marilyn had a sliced sirloin, medium rare, served on cous-cous with dried cranberry's and pine nuts. One does not have to eat innards.

Julie promises real calf liver, another favorite, within the next couple of weeks and so it wont be a "long time" before I'm back on the "Swanee".

Bombay Brazier

Following the advice of Marilyn Harris four of us last night made our way to "Bombay Brazier" 7791 Cooper Rd. Cincinnati( Montgomery) OH 45242 (513) 791-0000. When I say "made our way" it is because this somewhat unique Indian restaurant occupies the "graveyard" of other places, for whom the location has been the death knell. I only hope this does not repeat. The location is off of Cooper Road, to the west of Montgomery Road, and behind "Gattle's", the upscale linen emporium.
It takes some effort to find the restaurant and the entrance but I am hopeful that enough people do, as they will be richly rewarded.

"Bombay Brazier" now occupies the space formerly serving as "Jimmy D's", a suburban steak house. It is run by Rip Sidhu and his wife and is attractive to the eye and to the taste. It is a "cut" above the usual Indian restaurant both in decor and food. The large space contains a bar, large dining area( actually two rooms) and a fire place, inviting on any cold night.
One is first struck by the rich colors and the attractive, but serviceable, china included in the well set tables.

After drinks, and they have a full selection of liquor, wine and beer, we allowed Rip's wife to suggest a first course.
She brought us a platter of diced chicken breasts which had been marinated, then baked with mixed diced peppers, onions and tomato's in a slightly sweet sauce. Moist and crunchy at the same time. A wonderful starter and a compliment to our before dinner drinks and the wine and beer that followed.
In no way do I feel even remotely able to try to decipher the cooking techniques nor spices or other ingredients use in preparing this special food. There are cooking classes offer by the chef for those who want to learn( healthy eating). At the moment I remain only a reporter.
We then shared 3 different items which showed the chef's(Rip) skill in different food media. Cubes of lamb mixed with slices of Okra and some onions and herbs made a hearty meat entree. Large, perfectly cooked, shrimp floating in a coconut milk bath again spiced, but not in anyway to detract from the seafood, left a sense of sweetness and the sea as well.
Lastly the creamed spinach, to which had been added sizable mushroom pieces, at our request, was not only smooth but blended perfectly to provide a compliment to the heavier meat and light seafood.
Two different Nans( oven baked flat breads), both crisp and flavorful gave us useful pushers and moppers for the mixture of flavors adorning our dinner plates.
We took home a very small amount of Okra and Spinach but should have "carried out" more and not had to waddle to our car.

The owner and his wife are not only hospitable but generous, as well, and we all hope that this first class dining spot will draw the kind of following it deserves. Turn on your GPS or call and get exact instructions to treat yourself to a fine dining experience.

Black Friday

Why is it that everything one reads and hears about "Black Friday" seems to be centered on the hard goods and apparel part of our economy. Around our house expenditures tend to be much heavier in the food area than either of the afore mentioned. Where did the term "Black Friday" come from, anyway? I assume that it is a reference to the hope that merchants will do enough business, on that one day, to assure themselves a solvent year( in the "black).

We had two Granddaughters in town. They are both out of their teens, just, and attend college, in the East. One is part of our daughters family, who live here, and the other is a West Coast son's eldest. Marilyn and the girls did visit "The Gap" on Thanksgiving afternoon but I feel their purchases assured the parent corporation only that three more people graced one of their establishments. On the other hand the expenditures for food, both in home and out took on a much larger boost to the economy, yet no TV cameras were present near us, nor as far as I know at any grocery store or restaurant. Maybe I just missed it.
Not counting the Thanksgiving dinner, largely catered at our son-in-laws mothers condo, containing all the requisites, plus wine and other items we managed in just 48 hours to leave the Cincinnati economy enhanced by about $400, most with items not prepared in our kitchen.

"Finley Market" between Race St and Elm St, north of Liberty St. was only in partial operation Friday. Maybe the merchants not present were out buying flat screen TV's.
As I have mentioned before "Finley Market" has grown to be an interesting place for lunch or "carry out". A new addition, since Oct 7, is the "Fresh Table", a large, attractive stall near the Race St. door. They seem to offer 20 to 30 prepared items, all attractive, fresh and possibly organic, and I would guess well prepared, the ones we had were. Our group sampled a Greek Pasta salad, curried chicken salad, grilled shrimp dusted with jerk seasoning, Gravlax and bread pudding. This did not touch the surface as I remember seeing in the cases other salads, vegetables, several pot pies, pasta dishes, grilled meats( beef tenderloin and possibly pork) and on and on. Well worth a visit. The Greek stand provided large Gyro's, easily enough for two unless you have an gargantuan appetite, and several salads. We did not have any of their various humus spreads nor other cold dishes( stuffed grape leaves, spicy cabbage etc). They also have an array of desserts.
This trip we past up "Silvergades"( deli sandwiches), the Belgium Waffle stand, the new Vietnamese Restaurant, Skertz and Johnson, Big Mikes and other who were open, but you get the idea. When the place is in full operation it is a wonderful destination.

We waited till Friday to decide whether to eat out or at home, that night. Not a good idea on any weekend. Marilyn had made her "French Cracker Pie", a family favorite, so when we decided, Friday morning, that 7 of us wanted to "eat out", at 7 PM no less, it was not a hard choice to ask "Otto's" to accommodate us on short notice and with our own dessert. They came through, as usual, with the small kitchen kitchen turning out delicious food to each of our specifications. Unfortunately we are like most and tweak the menu items to our own liking. It's nice to have friends in the business, and I have the feeling that most placeses are accommodating to their regular customers, if possible. The special last night at "Otto's" was flank steak which Marilyn reported was delicious, my salmon couldn't have been better. The pie served us, a piece for the kitchen and an inquisitive table next to ours.
I have to start accounting for our expenditures at other than markets places and eateries to see if we can do something to help the balance of trade and the unemployment figures, although the hospitality business certainly has to count.

Single Names

I know that we seem to go to chef run restaurants and I have become aware that many have a single name, often part or in whole connected with the owner.
This past week we have been to several: Terry's( real name Terry's Turf Club), Hugo's, Tano's, Senate and Otto's.

Most Cincinnatians know that "Terry's Turf Club" on Eastern Ave. has become the hot "dive" for burgers and fries, but let me add that they have some very interesting other offerings.
Monday night I had a pork loin sandwich( a pork chop minus the bone) with a whipped goat cheese and large grilled pimento slice placed strategically on top. I only wish it had stayed in place, then I could have come away with less sticky fingers and a cleaner shirt. The whole thing was on a bun liberally doused with a red pepper fresh tomato puree, house made, not ketchup, spicier and thiner. A great combination but bring your own utensils and bib, or a clean bath towel. Certainly something delicious and different.

"Tano's" 204 West Loveland Ave 45140 (513) 683-8266 was just as good the second time as it had been the first. It's a long drive( 17 miles each way) for us but once there it is pleasant and the food and service very good. "Bombay" was exceptionally reasonable( poor English but good price), as I imagine most of the spirits are; while Marilyn and I were overjoyed when the "wedge" came divided in 4 nice sized crisp, firm pieces. It made sharing a joy.
For my main course I had Fluke, blackened and grilled perfectly, moist and firm. The fish rested on a bed of sauteed spinach and was surrounded with black beans and rice. A full meal which complimented the tacos consumed at lunch the day before. I am sure I mention before that the service was not only attentive but interested in us as customers. Thursday night Tano( the last part of his first name) stoped by several times to answer questions and see that we were pleased.

Friday lunch, OTR (over the Rhine) at "Senate" 1212 Vine St 45202 (513) 421-2020 took us back to a place we had not been for several months. The menu has changed slightly( probably seasonal availability of items) but they still feature gourmet street food, plus mussels, and their $9 to $12 all beef hot dogs. If you are watching your weight don't have any but the croque madam, a hot dog with bechamel and cheese sauce plus a poached egg looked wicked and probably overly filling. Our guest licked her lips often.
I was proud of myself settling for the Bangkok Dog which included shaved raw carrots and chopped scallions on a soft bun with peanut and Wasabi sauce, spicy and very good.
Marilyn had a very creamy mushroom soup heavy in mushroom flavor from several types well chopped and sauteed prior to adding to the stock."Senate" remains popular with an interesting crowd both at lunch , dinner and late into the evening.

"Hugo" was mentioned in my previous posting and "Otto's",( our home away from home) both Friday night and for Brunch today, Sunday, has been in so many of these reports that to write more boarders on excessive repetition. So hit a single named place or start calling your favorite by your own, one name, abbreviation.

Catching up

There is no way that I can put detailed comments on all the places we have been since we returned from the East, Oct 28 and Chicago, Nov. 7. Nor even mention them all. Therefore this is a poor attempt to list some that seem to me to have something new or slightly different to report.
In Chicago we have found a new, to us, Rib place in the Northern suburb of Highland Park, IL. I'm sure anyone really interested can use the web to get location and all the other info one might desire, on this or any place I mention.
"Ravinia Grill", Highland Park IL, competes favorably with any ribs, pork( baby back) or beef, that we have had anywhere. Everyone has his or her favorite but we were partial to "Walt's Hitching Post"( Wilder KY) and felt a loss when they went out of business. "Ravinia" has taken there place, and may be better, but over 300 miles is a long drive for a wonderful rib dinner.
"The Precinct", just down the hill, at Delta and Columbia Parkway, continues to be our neighborhood restaurant and our personal top "Jeff Ruby" establishment. Over solicitous servers and hosts, not withstanding, the food is great and they are overly kind to "small spenders".(If you order very lightly, or split a small amount remember your server works for a living and lives off tips. The average cover in an upscale steak house is well over $50 a head.)
"La Mexicana" 642 Manmouth St. Newport KY 41071 (859) 261-6112 is probably the closest to real Mexican food around the area, except for a Mexican family home cooked dinner. The small soft Taco's come with about 15 different choices of ingredients. Even though it often makes my companions turn a bright green I usually have tripe, tongue or some other exotic, to most, meat. I have not been overly enamored of their tamales, to much corn meal to little stuffing and flavor. Be careful of the red hot sauce unless you really like "heat"
"Pelican's Reef" Beachmont Ave in Anderson Township besides have interesting( especially the "specials") well cooked and presented seafood's have at least 3 great homemade desserts. Key Lime Pie, Peanut butter Pie with chocolate topping and an eclair cake( to me it is like Boston Cream Pie) all made either "in house" or by a friend and delivered daily. I have not been in the habit of saving room for dessert, there, but that is about to change. The "Reef" remains very reasonable and extreemly pleasent and friendly.
"Jean Robert's Table" 713 Vine St. (513) 621-4777 remains the "hot spot" with the local, eating out crowd. We have been there on both a Saturday night and a Wednesday, at about an hour later. Saturday at 8:30 was a mad house, Wednesday at 9:30 was excellent. Prompt but not obtrusive service, very reasonably priced libations and food served hot and prepared beautifully, to order. As the floor management says, "everyone and their friends want to come on Saturday night, so don't if you can help it". I doubt that one has to be as late as 9:30 on a week night to be seated promptly and served attentively.
"Hugo" 3235a Madison Road (513) 321-4846. Remains a quiet, pleasant environment, at least during the week. I hope they make, it but their pricing seems to be on the high end for the portions and selections. The are attentive and there are no complaints on the food preparation but to me the value is not as great as other places we choose., and the menu is not "that" outstanding.
We have been to "La Poste"( which took over "Tinks" space), at 3410 Telford, Clifton several times and have been please with service and food. The mushroom Ravioli, Cheese Fritters, rack of Lamb and good sized salads are worth a mention and a try.
I believe that this sort of sizes up some of the spots we have hit in the last few weeks. A couple were for lunch but most have been evenings out with friends. Waist line not withstanding I'll post more as we get back into our routine. Good to be home.

"Maialino" and "Union Square Cafe"

The last two nights in New York City we treated ourselves to two different restaurants, both part of the Union Square Hospitality Group. As many of you, who know us, know we have a very special feeling for not only Danny Meyer, the founder, but for all of those who join him making the word HOSPITALITY have special meaning.

Our evening at "Maialino", Gramercy Park Hotel, 2 Lexington Ave, NYC was EXCEPTIONAL. Nothing about the food, service, hospitality or ambiance was standard. Everyone from the Director of Service to the bussers made our 3 hours of dining OUTSTANDING. If there was a 6 star rating for a restaurant "Maialino", that night, certainly won it, in our book.
We arrived promptly for our 7 PM reservation( make them well in advance) and were seated immediately. The room was busy with a contented hum and fully staffed so that everyone received the proper attention. Our attractive, knowledgeable server, Genesa, greeted us and took our drink order. "Maialino" not only offers wine by the glass and bottle but also a carafe, 1 and 1/2 glasses, and a half glass pour. Since they did not offer Bombay I ordered a glass and a half of Barbera, as did the others. The drinks arrived promptly followed by the Director of Service who apologized for the lack of Bombay and offered to see if another Bar in the hotel had some. Within minutes my "old stand-by" arrived. That's Hospitality!!
Explaining the menu took a couple of minutes as we had many questions and Genesa not only answered all but made suggestions as to house special items. We started our meal with Fig Crostini, thin slices of figs on a creamy cheese spread mounted on crisp toast and drizzled with honey(yummy) and an order of fried beets, crisp on the outside and warm and tender through out, new to us and delicious. For my first course I had Trippa(Tripe) in a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce. I am a Tripe lover and scourer menus for this offering.
Next came a small order of firm and tender Porchini Mushrooms, for the table and also individual helpings of Rissoto covered with white truffels( it wasn't a cheap evening, but worth every cent).
We split several dishes, Carciofini( fried, baby, artichokes) and several pasta's ranging from Carbonara and Malfatti to a large Ravioli filled with a light creamy sauce with spinach and herbs and a poached egg which, of course, spread when the pasta was cut. Paul( I believe) the wine Steward stoped by and give us each a small pour of a excellent, light Gattinaro( 100% Nebbiola). An perfect compliment to the Pasta's and us.
We needed dessert, like a nutritional supplement, but had two, for the three of us, a lovely Chocolate concoction and a Pine Nut Tart.
I know that I have failed to mention some of the people who helped, from the line cooks to the food delivery staff, but everyone and everything just fit together for perfection.

"Union Square Cafe" 21 East 16th St. NYC (212-243-4020) is our personal "home away from home" on the New York restaurant scene. We have been going there since they opened, 25 years ago. The night following "Maialino" they had a hard act to follow. Not only had we been "blown away" but as you can imagine were still stuffed. The cousin and her friend who had been with us at "North" joined us for this final evening and so we were 5 in all.
Bombay is on the premises and as usual that's where I started. I love their mixed bib, red leaf and shaved Gruyere salad and have a hard time ordering anything else, for my salad course. Others had tuna tartare, a tomato and bread soup (wonderful tomato flavor) an apple salad( slices caramelized and crisp greens) and a pasta which seemed reminiscent of German Spaetzele with a wonder butter, cream and Herb sauce.
We shared an excellent dish of small pasta clouds stuffed with mushrooms and possibly a liver paste, terrific. My main course was a grilled juicy red Snapper accompanied by a slaw of shredded carrots, golden raisins and pine nuts, also terrific. Others also had Snapper, Scallops, Swordfish and Venison.
For dessert we shared an order of Brioche French toast and a plate of chocolate goodies the latter compliments of the staff.
As I said "Union Square Cafe" is a standby for us and the only disappointment that evening was that things did not seem to function quite as well as they have in the past. I'm sure part was our euphoria from the night before.

And so the trip East ends. The drive home, 13 hours, from mid-town Manhattan to our front door, went smoothly and I don't need to Blog about "Cracker Barrel" or the "Waffle House".

Armonk and the "Big Apple"

Steve Mancini, an alumni of USHG( Union Square Hospitality Group) and partners have open a new restaurant in Armonk NY, suburban NYC. "North" 386 Main St. Armonk NY 10504 (914)-273-8686 is the new "hot spot" in this area. it is fairly small with a bar and tables on the first floor( very noisy), swinging, and a somewhat quieter, but still active, dinning area on the second.
Reservations are taken 30 days in advance and are a necessity.
Five us ventured from Mamarineck to Armonk on Friday Oct 22 to try out this, slightly connected, Danny Meyer outpost, in a small strip mall on a quiet downtown suburban street.
The parking lot was full as was the restaurant when we arrived for our 6:30 seating.
We found the food "upscale" and fully priced, while the service was pleasant, attentive but at times slow. They are in their third month of operation and still have a few kinks to smooth out.
The table started with a bottle of Cinquante Viognier, as the other couple, cousins, enjoy white over red. I followed with a mixed beet salad, red, golden and purple all sliced or cubed and placed on a base of goat cheese and shredded greens. Next came both Mussel Flat bread, excellent with plenty of whole fresh mussels prepared in a slightly spicy butter sauce and then grilled and an accompanying mushroom flat bread, same preparation but in a much milder butter sauce.
My main course was a brazed short rib( I miss the "bone in", an attempt at easier handling by the guest) which was surrounded by a smattering of vegetables, also brazed. I found it tasty but slightly stringy. Others had Tuna Tartare, Orrechiette, Swordfish and Scallops for their maim courses.
Our Granddaughter and my cousin lead us to the outstanding desserts: "Chocolate Chip Skillet", with Vanilla Ice Cream, Fig Tart and a Brownie Skillet with Chocolate Ice Cream( have some chocolate). The skillets come to the table HOT with the dough that has been cooked therein steaming. Obviously the Ice Cream doesn't stay firm long.
Our meal ended with a small bottle of Ice Wine, from Long Island, a gift from Steve, who had been the wine director at both "Maialino" and "Union Square Cafe"more on both of those in a future posting. Too much food but a terrific show of this new places ability.

Into the city and Saturday night at "Sandro's" 306 East 81st St (212-288-7374). Marilyn had found a squib in a magazine recommending this place as Mimi Sheridan's favorite neighborhood Italian spot. She was not mistaken. That night there were 4 of us; Granddaughter, who had been with us since Boston, and our hostess for the 4 nights we spent in the city.
"Sandro's" is an expensive, small, bustling neighborhood establishment with very few tourists and a center aisle hardly large enough to accommodate the Huge Chef, owner. He rules the roost
The clientele seems to stretch from business to "mob" but all are welcome and treated as guests.
From the 15 to 20 "specials", ( they present a printed menu) we all chose our dinner.
We started with a Montpulician( rich red Barbera) after which came a beautiful platter of fresh tomato crostini's, compliments of the Chef and a small bowel of spicy peppers also with his compliments.
Two each divided a first course, Marilyn and GD a Tropea Salad( tomato's, cucumbers , peppers and cheese) while I, and our other guest, had a delicious Polpo( Grilled Octopus and firm potato's marinated in oil and spices). I was the only carnivore ordering a perfectly grilled, bone in, veal chop, which was absolutely delicious. The other three each chose "house made" Pastas which floated off the plate. One each, Pennette( butter and cheese), Fettucine( Bolognese) and Papardelle( a ragu of wild boar), the later the most interesting to me, as I sampled all, everyone excellent.
At this point, as plates were being cleared the Chef commanded that we be served "Grapa".
To rerun his favor we ordered Fragole Balsamic, a vanilla Gelato covered with fresh berries and a Balsamic reduction. Wow.

The next evening, after our Granddaughter returned to school in Maine, an arduous journey that took all day Sunday, the three of us again went for dinner in the neighborhood. I have written, previously, about "Atlantic Grill" 1341 3rd Ave (212) 988-9200. this upscale seafood chain has never disappointed us with there good food, service and location, for us, when we're in the city.
Having stuffed myself on the two previous nights I tried to show some restraint. After the Bombay I chose three first courses; a wonderful and interesting Cauliflower soup, with pear croutons, A pear, nut and greens salad and a single crab cake, full of white lump-fin crab meat. The two women shared a Chinese Dumpling appetizer and followed with a grilled snapper, for one and the crab cake(2) dinner, for the other
This left room for one large piece of Molten Chocolate Cake with three forks. A walk home on a beautiful Indian Summer evening competed our first two nights "eating out".

Boston-"Home of the Bean and the Cod"

Unpacked and awaited the arrival of our Granddaughter, this one a Junior at Bates College in Lewiston ME. Since it was her "fall break" she joined us for the next 4 days. Our local(Cambridge) Grandson is a Freshman at Harvard and ostensibly that was the reason for the two days in the Boston area. His home is in the LA area and already he thought the weather was cold, nights in the high 50's during our visit.
Wednesday night 7 of us, 2 grandchildren and a cousins daughter and her two teenagers had a mostly seafood dinner at "Legal Sea Foods"-617-491-9400- in the Charles Hotel just off Harvard Sq. in Cambridge.
Knowing there would be many things to taste I ordered reasonably, Bombay, Lobster Roll, my only dealing with this crustacean on the trip, and an iceberg wedge salad, with the usual bacon bits, tomato's, blue cheese crumbles etc. I was not disappointed with anything nor was I with my tastes of crab cakes( from two of our party), plenty of good lump crab, Baked Scrod( Marilyn's entree), salmon and of course the shared desserts, Chocolate pudding cake and Banana's Foster. My Lobster roll was almost exclusively claw meat and was accompanied on the plate with fried onion rings and very good slaw. There was plenty, as all the items which are served are good sized portions."Legal Sea Food" is a chain, very well run with high quality food and attentive service.

Next morning, after some time at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, we met some of our granddaughter's friends on Newberry St. for lunch and some shopping. The friends had chosen "Sonsie" on Newberry St. and had scoped out a table for 5. I enjoyed a wonderful Butternut Squash soup with plenty of curry and a few other additions, crab, apple slices and mango. This I followed with Cauliflower Pizza, a first. The Cauliflower was sauteed, roasted and flavored with various spices. The pizza also contained thinly sliced prosciutto, tomato's and caramelized onions. It was an interesting combination and I shared several pieces with others. All in all it was a fun and different lunch.

The evening was a special treat. Our grandson had made a reservation at "Craigie on Main" 853 Main St. Cambridge MA, 617-497-5511. His sister had seen a food channel show on this restaurant and he and his Dad had been there for the 6 course tasting menu ( a whole evening).
At Craigie's all the food is cooked to order and the whole menu and experience is well merchandised. That's is not to say that the food and service is not first class, they are, but the selling is fairly obvious.
When Marilyn and GD ordered the "whole roast chicken", a specialty, we were told that it would take approximately 50 minutes, a very good projection. Therefore after a drink we all sampled one order of fried Pig's Tails, small bone in, slightly bar-b-qued, pork pieces which were grill to crisp perfection. For dinner I had the Veal 2 ways, veal tenderloin( slightly chewy) and beautifully prepared sweetbreads( one of my favorite foods). Our granddaughter knew what I would order before I had looked at the menu, I'm that predictable. A side of sauteed Brussels Sprout in butter and herbs completed my main course with enough of the vegetables for all to share. I drank a glass of Gunner Ventliner, as you know Austrian white, which complimented everything. A very satisfying shared berry crisp concluded my intake for the evening.
As mentioned the two women had the whole roast chicken, with Grandson taking home what was left, carcase and all, while for his main item he had the Grilled House bacon burger, he had started with Hiramsa, a sushi grade white fish first course.
The menu has very interesting selections and the wine list also contains unusual items, with prices to match.

On to Poughkeepsie

Monday morning, Oct 18, we loaded our car and headed for Poughkeepsie NY. We have a Granddaughter who is a Sophomore at Vassar College. The routing took us off the Interstates on to Route 206 in the vicinity of Princeton NJ. The hour ride along that route was absolutely beautiful with the fall foliage combining with the beautiful homes, lawns and well maintained stone fences. That plus the Hudson River Valley area were several of the high points of our 2000 mile journey.
We arrived in late afternoon and after checking in at our Motel we drove to the campus to meet our Granddaughter and see her dorm room. She is not an adventurous eater, although she did manage to survive the summer in Alexandra Egypt, her favorite seem to be Pud Thai and so we were not surprised when she recommended "Spicy Thai" near the campus. We were a little surprised when she ordered Pineapple Fried Rice instead of her favorite. Marilyn had the Pad Thai and I tried a cold salad which besides the usual had a generous portion of well prepared crispy roasted duck.
The next day things fell more into our hands. The three of us headed to Rhinebeck about 20 miles north, still in the Valley. Rhinebeck has a number of shops and eating places and has developed as a regular tourist destination. The oldest continuing INN is at the main intersection, as it probably was in Colonial days, long before dress, wine, souvenir and patisseries made the sceen. We chose a local tavern for lunch and GD continued her experimenting with a "tuna melt". I tried a combination of local cheeses and sausage. Our server was experienced, humorous and a delight
In the afternoon we drove south to Hyde Park and toured the Vanderbilt's Mansion, operated, as are the Roosevelt properties, by the National Park Service. Marilyn and I have visited the Roosevelt home and Library so this was a new addition for us.
Tuesday night the three of us had dinner at the Culinary Institute of America(CIA). Marilyn and I had eaten there a good 15 or more years ago, with another couple, when it was a much smaller and less known school. Tuesday night we chose "American Bounty", which as the name implies, is the "finishing school restaurant" for soon to graduate students. Kitchen, front of the house and back up are all Seniors about to graduate. Our server, Frank, was scheduled to graduate the Friday following our visit.
The room is beautiful but our table had a poor location, at the far end next to a serving station. Everyone can't be in "Booth #1".
The menu is well thought out and several specials are added nightly. The place, incidentally was full. Reservations are a necessity and are made either on the web or by calling 845-471-6808. The campus is located in very southern Hyde Park NY less that a mile from Poughkeepsee.

I followed the Chef''s suggestion and went with the Pork Chop, grilled medium, served with a light tomato sauce including white beans, clams and chorizo. It was the largest single bone in pork chop that I have ever seen. I didn't have a ruler but I would not be surprised if it was 4" thick and covered at least half the plate. That said, it was prepared perfectly and it was a shame that since we were traveling it could not "go home with us". I had started with the usual Bombay followed by a Country Salad of greens, cranberry's, pear, nuts and blue cheese crumbles.
Marilyn began with Gnocchi and followed with Beef Short Ribs while GD settled for Caesar salad and Steak, as Marilyn commented the students have to learn to cook the basics.
For dessert we shared an Apple Tart done very well with apples just the right consistency and a tart crust, flaky and sufficiently crisp. Since we are from Cincinnati most ice cream, which in this instance was the accompaniment, pales by comparison to "Graeter's".
The evening was very pleasant and the student servers, while not quite yet professional, were pleasant and very interested in us as guests.

East

The hardest thing for me, as for many people who write, is to sit down and get going.
We arrived back in Cincinnati last Wednesday night, Oct 27, after a 13 day sojourn along the East Coast and passing thru the land in between.
I am going to recap some of our adventures, and as usual put a little emphasis on "Eating Out"

The purpose of our trip was a family wedding in Baltimore, visits with three Grandchildren at their eastern colleges, or in the vicinity, and a visit with a cousin and good friend in the NYC area. We accomplished this all with the help of our 1999 Honda CRV, some current, approved, credit cards and too much clothing, but who knew the weather would be so beautiful and so warm.

The drive to Baltimore went smoothly till we hit the Baltimore County line. Friday night traffic on the East coast make our local traffic look like we're still in the horse and buggy age. It took us almost 2 hours to get across the city to our hotel at the "inner harbor". Baltimore has done a wonderful job of development of that harbor area.
After unloading we joined a number of the "out of town wedding guest" at the "Pratt Street Ale House", about 4 blocks from our hotel. The Ale House is a fairly large establishment which looks as though it dates back one or more centuries. It has a large open area on the street, Friday night, and I am told most others, filled with 20 and 30 year olds. There specialty is Ale and there are over a dozen on tap. We had a private room on the third floor with a buffet table loaded with dips, bar foods, pasta's, shrimp and crudities. Eating and drinking to fast sent me home early.
The next day, Saturday Oct 16, Marilyn and I took the train into Washington to meet Marilyn's nephew and his family for lunch and the Norman Rockwell exhibit( wonderful) at the National Portrait Gallery. That evening, back in Baltimore, was a "welcoming party" for all the families and again "out of town guests", at "McCormick & Schmick's", part of the national seafood chain, in the Inner Harbor.
Food was again buffet style but this time I showed better sense and concentrated of the crab cakes (acceptable) and a few sides. All went well.
Sunday morning we joined a cousin's daughter and her twin boy for brunch at "Miss Shirley's Cafe" again in the Inner Harbor area, on Pratt street. After a half hour wait, for a table, we were seated, outside( beautiful day) and presented with the largest Breakfast menu I have ever seen.
I had a glass of fresh squeezed Orange Juice and then a delightful plate of Crab Benedict. The poached eggs were placed on fried green tomato slices which rested on a bed of lump crab meat, fresh sweet corn and diced tomato's. All was covered with a delightful light Hollandaise sauce. The service lacked, but the food didn't.
That afternoon we boarded buses for the 45 minute trip to a Manor House and grounds between Baltimore and Washington, the wedding site. Beautiful and stately house and grounds and a lovely personal ceremony. After the wedding there were drinks and passed Hors d'oeuvre's on the terrace, loaded tables of col appetizers in an anti room and full seated dinner, served family style, is a covered garden room. Only the main course came on an individually served plate with is appropriate side( I had Short rib with potato). The wedding cake was cut and another room stocked with deserts, so no one went hungry.
We left the festivities around 9:30 PM in preparation of our departure next more for Poughkeepsie, NY. There the report will continue.

Tough business--Tough weekend

If you are a Cincinnati sports fan, and I can not be put in that category, this has been a tough weekend. The Reds who gave us 6 months of pleasure tangled with some of the best pitching in the major leagues and the Bengals began showing the results of intransigence ownership who, in my opinion, will never be responsible for a professional winning organization.
All of that said I once again saw what a difficult business the restaurant business is and how inside and outside forces make demands that only well trained professionals, at all levels, can overcome. As I tell people who have attended my OLLI course at UC " if you are thinking of going into the restaurant business go buy a parking lot".

Friday night we met another couple at "The Quarter( Bistro)" 6904 Wooster Pike Mariemont, OH 45227 (513-271-5400). The food, once again was very good to excellent. The service "ordinary", but I'll get to that in a moment. After my usual Bombay, a nice pour, I followed with the evenings special, Tobia( a firm, flaky, white fish) grilled perfectly and served on Risotto, beautifully done, with asparagus, caramelized onions and chopped mushrooms. The plate was decorated with a lime, citrus sauce which added just the right touch to the two main items. I like my food exceedingly hot( temperature) and so I ask that some additional heat be applied, which was done promptly.
Marilyn had French onion soup, well crusted, and a Mushroom Pizza, at least we thought it was listed that way, which was good but did not seem to have the mushrooms in attendance. Possibly we had read the menu incorrectly.

As mentioned the service was "ordinary". Friday night was the second "playoff game" for the Reds and so there was an extra large crowd and numerous distractions, both for customers and help. It was also the second day of a new menu and a shortage in the serving staff. I titled this "tough business". Although the General Manager worked diligently along with the staff it could not compensate for all the things effecting the tempo and details.
I spoke to the GM the next day( he returned my call very promptly) and he graciously thanked me for my interest and for pointing out many of the specifics. I am sure he covered them with his staff later in the day.
As I noted the food was great and everyone, or place, has a "bad hair day".

La Poste

Last night, Tuesday, five of us went to "La Poste" 3410 Telford St. Cincinnati, OH 45220 (513-281-3663). The location was the former home of "Tink's" and is well located near the Esquire Theatre and "Graeter's"." La Poste" had opened for business the previous night. The dining room, and adjoining wine room, have been lightened and minimally decorated with several paintings and prints. Tables are nicely spaced and all have white linen, and last night yellow, fresh flowers. David Taylor is the Executive Chef and he and several others of the service and kitchen staff were previously at "Honey" in Northside.
After my signature Bombay, the cocktail onions had not yet arrived, I shared, with the others, a helping of ricotta fritters. The fritters were the consistency of a "doughnut holes" but slightly larger. They were excellent, just the right amount of ricotta had been worked into the dough to have a nice flavor but not be overwhelming. A "Smoked Lemon Caesar Salad" was next and was also large enough for several of us to share. The greens and other ingredients were well chopped, except the anchovy fillets, and the flavor again was more than satisfactory.
Marilyn and I divided a brazed lamb shank served with French fried potato's and a rich, but not too thick, gravy. Some of the potato's soaked up some of the juice and the others remained crisp. Lastly I ordered, for the table, sour cherry Bread pudding. Two good sized slices, probably from a baked loaf with a crusty outside and a firm overall consistency. The sauce was a syrup mixture of sugar, cherry juice, possibly some alcoholic beverage and lots of poached sour cherries. A fitting finish for an excellent meal.
Prices seemed reasonable and although we were guests I would imagine a dinner with drinks would run in the $40 range. Service and hospitality were evident throughout the evening.

Monday night we went to "Allyn's" an Eastside fixture. Located at 3538 Colombia Parkway, in Columbia Tusculum 45226 (513-871-5779) it has been in operation, I believe over 20 years. We were drawn by the Monday music provided by the "Faux Frenchmen" a string jazz ensemble, playing our kind of music.
Over the years "Allyn's" has upgraded their mostly Tex-Mex and beer menu to now include various dishes and a wide selection of wines. I had Red Snapper picatta( sauce on the side) with a nicely baked potato and a side salad. Marilyn chose the Tillapia and also the potato and salad, both items were $14.95. The food was decent and the entertainment fun and exciting.

Sunday night "Cafe Mediterranean" 7454 Beechmont Ave. (513-232-2400) beckoned to us after drinks and conversation at home with our dinner companions. "Cafe Mediterranean" is our favorite Turkish dining place in the area. We all divided Lahmacum, a three level Turkish pizza, with very thin dough covered with ground, seasoned lamb placed on a very light tomato sauce. It is served with fresh lemon, chopped onions, romaine and thinly sliced tomato's which are eaten on the pizza wedges. Marilyn and I split an order of marinated, grilled chicken thighs, beautifully done and flavorful, accompanied with fresh steamed vegetables. I sampled a dark Turkish beer (Efes) which I found fit perfectly. Total for our share before tip was $32.50.

A Dream-realized, partially

For years it has been my dream to open and run a first class, Jewish Deli in Cincinnati. There have always been a few things that have stood in the way; MONEY, actual restaurant experience and partners who were as enthusiastically as I and more knowledgeable. Now my dream has been partially answered.
"Rascals (NY) Deli", Blue Ash Ohio, (513) 429-4567 opened about a month ago in a strip center at the corner of Kenwood Rd and Cooper Rd in Blue Ash, behind the US Bank building. We went Thursday for lunch, along with another couple, and tried an array of their items. Some were "tastes" or "samples" and others were regularly sized portions. I asked for and received, willingly, a taste of both the chopped liver and the Sable. The first I found only fair, to my taste, and the second was fine, standard, cured Sable. Incidentally the servers and managers( probably partners) did everything possible to be accommodating.
I ordered "soup and half sandwich". My soap was the sweet and sour cabbage, a favorite of mine, which I found to heavy for my taste with too much beef, other delis versions run from no noticeable beef to very light, and two thick a sweet base. It came only warm (temperature) but was soon corrected to nice and hot. Along with this I had a half of a pickled tongue on dark rye which was exactly as advertised. The tongue had good flavor and the rye, while too thick for my preference, was hard crusted and with good rye flavor. The table ordered the two kinds of cucumber salads and we were very please with the standard vinegar one but not happy with the Israeli seasoned version which had a fermented taste.
Marilyn had beef barley soup and a half corned beef on light rye which she reported to be just fine, on both. The others had Matzo Ball and noodle soup and one tongue and one Pastrami.
The restaurant is fair sized and I would guess seats around 50. We arrived at 11:30 AM and were seated immediately but before noon there was a line waiting for seating. All items can be "carried out".
The menu is extensive and runs from breakfast items to dinner plates. Prices for these not too usual Cincinnati items seem to be in line with costs in other locals. The "soup and sandwich" was 7.95 and also included one potato pancake, a small cup of apple sauce and a generous slice of dill pickle.
I wish them luck and will return to try the Sable in some form, sandwich, plate or omelet, and possibly some of the other fish or deli items.

Also we split our time this week from eating in and going out, hitting "Pelican's Reef", "Suzy Wong's" and the "National Exemplar' in Mariemont. The first two are regulars but the last has been absent from our dinning scene for several years.
"The National Exemplar Restaurant" in Mariemont, OH is on the village square in the "Best Western Hotel". It is large, quiet and frequented by many of the "older" set, of which we are prime examples. Nice place to go for relaxed dining and a menu that rarely changes. They have a full bar and serve a decent sized drink. Starting with my Bombay I followed with the excellent rich Hungarian Mushroom Soup. For a main course I chose calf's liver, medium( which was slightly too done) that is accompanied by creamy mashed potato's and in my case fresh spinach. The calf's liver was both tasty and tender.Others had prime rib, salmon and halibut. All the food was well prepared and nicely presented We should venture there a little more often.

Ann Arbor

We spent this past weekend in Ann Arbor MI with approximately 70 others who had either gone to the U of M or had married one of the guys that had attended. It was a reunion for some of the fraternity "brothers" who had graduated in the classes of 1950's.
Several of our meals were eaten at local restaurants as the group only has a set dinner, Saturday night and a group "brunch" Sunday morning.

Some of our closest, long time friends, joined Marilyn and me Friday night at "Zingerman's Road House" 2501 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor MI (743-663-3663), the were 10 in all. The "Roadhouse" really has the appearance of what the name implies. It is right off Jackson Road and is large, several rooms, with a full bar, booths and tables configured to seat 2 to 20. The menu may have been one of the most diverse I have seen lately and all were struck by the variety of items. There were 9 fresh fish offerings alone. Various items ranged from Burgers and Bar-B-Q to Steak and fresh iced oysters.
After a good sized Bombay I followed with a plate of Fried Green Tomatoes( not as good as "Otto's", my standard), fried with a corn meal crust and doused with ranch dressing and hot sauce. I shared the plate, 7 slices. with half the table. For my main course I chose Sardines grilled over hardwood. I had tried to find then in Portugal, several years ago, but they were not "in season", the server, who was excellent, warned me that they came with "bone in" and heads on, which they did. I was not dissuaded. I combined the fish with sauteed fresh spinach and mill ground grits. I think I'll stick with Sardines from a can as they are a lot easier and not much different in taste. Marilyn had a delicious Lamb Burgoo with onion, carrot. celery, corn and wonderful halved small new potatoes all cooked together. I had several good sized tastes and the lamb was tender and flavorful while the potatoes, which had soaked up a good amount of juice and flavor still staying firm, OUTSTANDING. Just to prove that I am a "bottomless pit" I ordered the Michigan Cherry pie ala mode, again shared, a disappointment in size, flavor and cost.
Other had items ranging from oysters to fried chicken and all seemed pleased.

The next day for lunch 5 of us went to "Zingerman's Deli" the original base of the Zingerman food empire, in Ann Arbor. The deli is located downtown adjacent to the Farmers Market and is an impressive operation that has been in business for over 30 years. Many young people have worked their way thru "Michigan" working at Zingerman's. For lunch I had a Sable, scallion cream cheese and fresh tomato sandwich on pumpernickel. My "side" was a very rich Swiss cheese potato salad with fresh bacon bits and a creamy Dijon mustard mayonnaise dressing. Marilyn went for Matzo ball soup and a corned beef sandwich on light rye, real deli food.
Believe it or not I did not gain weight, which I attribute mostly to a faulty scale, or metabolism.

Before we took this weekend trip we had had dinner during the week at "Suzie Wong's" 1544 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45206 (513)751-3333, our second visit. At that point they did not have a liquor licence but I believe it arrived that very evening. The table split a "Laub Gai", ground beef and lamb in a slightly spiced sauce and served with lettuce leaves into which it is rolled, an Asian wrap. I had the Bi Bim Bap a Korean stone bowl with rice covered by marinated grilled beef, sauteed spinach, kimche and bean sprouts, all topped with a fried egg and infused with a lightly seasoned sauce. Marilyn had "Chicken Chow Mein" while the others chose shrimp "Pad Thai" and "Mandarin Orange Beef". I find "Suzie Wong's" very good and very reasonable, a good addition to the East Walnut Hills-Hyde Park Asian scene.

Old places-new delights

Over the weekend we went to "Pelican's Reef" 7261 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati 45230 (513)232-2526, with another couple, after drinks and nibbles at our place.
"Pelican's Reef", a sort of Key West Seafood Bar, has always been good for not only food and service but a general, relaxed, atmosphere as well. Maybe it's because we have been close to the owners for several years we feel that way.
Any way I believe the food quality and preparation have improved, from a good level, to one approaching any top seafood restaurant in the area.
Each week they send out an email notice of the weekend specials( I'm sure they will add you to the list) and I have found tempting items, almost without exception. One special this week was a killer dessert but we'll get to that shortly.
Our friends had a crumb crusted fresh John Dory, a firm, flaky white fish. The fish was crusted and baked and then placed in individual baking dishes on a bed of pasta and then baked again for a short time, heating and melding all the ingredients. It was outstanding.( I stole a fair sized taste)
I had large shrimp(scampi), split in the shell and stuffed with a crab stuffing. The shrimp were broiled and were firm and juicy while the stuffing was grainy, a good contrast, and had enough crab to give it a definite crab flavor. This was served on 3 cheese grits, in a large flat soup bowl, with a Southwest sauce( tomato's, peppers, onions etc) well seasoned but not overpowering. Another winner.
Now for dessert, and this may have been what brought us to the Reef. A large bowl, the four of us didn't finish it all, of deep fried chocolate, pecan, Carmel brownies, cut into strips and wrapped in an egg roll shell and popped into the deep fryer. When you cut into them the chocolate oozed out and mixed with the very large scoop of praline ice cream which made the center piece. As if this wasn't enough the ice cream was topped with whipped cream. No wonder we have an obesity problem in this country. Unconscionable but absolutely delicious. Total cost for the two of us with beer, salads, tip and tax $48.

The other pleasant surprise, at a favorite, was lunch at "Otto's" 521 Main St Covington KY 41011 (859-491-6678) I have posted comments about "Otto's, one of my emotional favorites, so that it is unfair to write more. The good news is the Paul Weckman is very much back in evidence and the food and service show it. The lunch menu seemed somewhat expanded and everything came out of the kitchen hot, tasty and delicious.
Sticking to my diet(Ha) I had an item that used to be only on the brunch menu, a Fried green tomato, bacon, lettuce sandwich, on a croissant with a fried egg added. Undoubtedly as many calories as a bacon cheese burger. To continue my wayward behavior instead of fruit, salad or soup I choose the home made, wonderful Saratoga chips.
My companion, a vegetarian had the excellent tomato soup followed by the always great tomato cheese pie. After all how much longer will the fresh tomato season last?
It was a great weekend of eating and I am thankful that our trainer doesn't have a computer and that the new treadmill, in the work out room, is functioning as it should.

Rib's N Things

This mornings newspaper said that among the most distrusted things are Blogs. It made me feel that once again I should reiterate my philosophy of what I post.
I try just to report on places I go and things that I personal eat and what I feel about each establishment. I don't hold myself out to be a restaurant reviewer, a chef or a professional in the service field in any way. I appreciate comment, of which I receive very few in writing, and several verbally and I am well aware the my tastes are not in any way universal. I am not a trained writer and never learned either to type or spell. So to sum it up, "What you see is what you get" That said her is my latest post.

Every since "Walt's Hitching Post", in Northern KY closed I have set out to try different preparations of Bar-B-Q Ribs. The closest to "Walts", or possibly even better, are at the "Ravinia Grill" in Highland Park IL a long drive from out base in Cincinnati.
Last night, upon notification of the chef, we went to the "Oriental Wok" at the Regency(513-871-6888) to have the Chinese Ribs, which he has prepared and is serving this week, as part of his "Restaurant Week" special $26.10 dinner. We, 3 of us, were on our way to theatre and so only had drinks and several appetizers( pot stickers, egg rolls, etc). The ribs were meaty, not at all fatty, done perfectly(firm on the bone) and covered with a sweet heavy Chinese Bar-B-Q Sauce. We ate with our fingers and were pleased to be served steaming towels and lemon slices to clean our hands and mouths as we finished. They will be on the menu this week and I'm not sure when he will repeat.

For the first time in several years I went, yesterday, to the "Dilly Cafe and Wines" 6818 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, OH 45227 (513)-561-5233. I meet a young man for lunch and found the food and service good and the atmosphere conducive to conversation. There is both inside and outside seating and an almost full house at 12:30 PM. An extensive menu guarantees that I will return again. For lunch I had excellent Gazpacho, while he chose tomato basil soup. The Gazpacho was nicely seasoned, although I add a little extra Tabasco, and had nicely chopped tomato's, green and red peppers, onions and celery in a "not to thick not to thin" tomato base.
We both followed the serves suggestion and had the grilled Salmon Burger, very tasty, served on toasted facahio with a slight covering of dill aoli. I removed the top piece although my guest ate the whole thing as a sandwich. This was accompanied by nicely done sweet potato fries($11). Pleasant lunch and mission accomplished.

Also this week we had dinner with our young friend and her 7 year old twins in the garden at "Arthur's" on Edward Road in Hyde Park. Dinner with this group is always a fun evening( we are extra grandparents to another family). Monday night was "Burger Madness( $7) which gave us all a choice of as many topping, up to 12, as we wanted at no extra cost. On my burger( medium, next time it will be medium-rare) I added blue cheese, sauteed onions and mushrooms, banana peppers and topped it all off with A-1 sauce. Messy but good. This and a Mt Carmel Amber covered dinner and held me till we got around the corner to "Graeter's" and several tastes of jelly roll and Marilyn's toffee chip cone.

Comments

After 3 or 4 nights eating at home we decided to venture out to Hyde Park Square and try the current occupant of the space in the square which seem to turn over regularly.
"Poco a Poco" (which translates to "little by little"), 2724 Erie Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45208 (513) 321-7626 now occupies the space formerly operated by "Red". I have heard that one of the owners also owns the real estate and that is one of the reasons behind the switch.
The menu has a number of small offerings meant to taste and share. Our server, John, was new to the restaurant business but was very patient and knowledgeable and therefore was able to guide us in making decisions. "Poco a Poco" turned out to be a good choice as neither of us wanted to eat heavily. Marilyn had more trouble with the menu than I but then she is more restrictive of her choices than am I.
After my Bombay, yes, they have a full bar, which I would class as no more than a medium pour($9) I followed with a fine Ceviche consisting of firm, sweet shrimp, sliced calamari and some small pieces of white fish, well marinated and served in an "old fashion" glass; and an order of Chili Rellanos, pablano pepper stuff with the shredded pepper insides, chess and a few bread crumbs, then deep fried, but not heavily or greasy, on a light bed of lightly spiced tomato sauce.
The pepper was only medium sized and would not have given more that a couple of bites if shared by more than one other person.
Marilyn chose fish tacos(2) rather small and slightly spicy. The fish was firm and the other fillings standard. Upon request, John brought a basket of chips which being warm and very crisp tuned out to be a good addition( no charge). The bill before tip came to slightly under $44.

A couple of other spots since last posting where the "Oakley Pub and Grill", for lunch with a friend. She had the grilled Grouper Fillet, which I think they do very well, and I tried the Chef's Special Hamburger, based on the article in "Cincinnati Magazine" about the best hamburgers in Cincinnati. This offering had A1 sauce, pepper jack cheese, deep fried onion rings and some mayo. Luckily I removed the bottom of the bun with the mayo and probably limited my intake to less than 1000 calories. The burger was fine but I'll return to the grouper.

Last night we returned to "Prima Vista" for the second time in 8 days and although I like the owners very much and the food is always as advertised this rapid of a return is not recommended. The menu changes very little and even the "specials" are often repeated. Last night was highlighted by the excellent bread pudding with rum soaked rasins and Carmel sauce with which we ended the meal. If I go soon again I may just stick to the house salad, adding Gorgonzola and fried Calamari and have the bread pudding all to myself.