Since we have been home, from California, we have not tried anyplace new but have still eaten out quite a bit.
The first night back, and again a week later, we went to "Honey" Hamilton Ave in Northside-513-541-4300. I have written and extolled the food several times before. Again Shoshanna Hefner, the chef-owner, did not disappoint. Each time, there were four of us, and although there were some repeats it was a wonderful sampling of her imagination and artistry.
My only beef is that the don't carry "regular" Bombay so I am stuck with the upgrade "Sapphire"
The fist night I started with a Mediterranean appetizer plate, including eggplant, peppers, salami and a firm Greek cheese that was fried and served warm. I followed with an excellent rack of lamb served on Gnocchi and also glazed Brussels sprouts, all favorites of mine. Marilyn had the brazed beef short ribs, served on the bone, the way they should be, having started her meal with a beautifully prepared Polenta. The ribs came with mashed potato's and root vegetables. There was also a main course of Duck Brest and an additional order of lamb, for the other twosome.
On the second visit I chose the 8 oz Burger which is topped with white Cheddar as well as sauteed mushrooms and onions. The accompaniment is a generous portion of "honey" fries with a spicy oriental dipping sauce. I tried an English "Samuel Smith" beer , which had been recommended by our server. The others had short ribs, quail and salmon. One "special salad of spinach, strawberries, nuts and cheese was shared by the other couple. The whole table had started by sharing the Mediterranean plate with warm bread as a starter.
Both nights we ate out doors and although the second was quite warm it still was easier to visit than in the crowded and not so cool restaurant.
I have been pleased to see people supporting some of Cincinnati's home run restaurants and last Wednesday at "Honey was no exception.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Saturday, June 27, 2009
"Up in Mendocino"(Hemingway)
California Route 1, 19th St. in SF, is 2 blocks from Marilyn's brothers home. We again headed North, across the "Golden Gate Bridge", no toll going North, and by lunch time we were in the beautiful Anderson Valley, vineyards galore.
As usual we stoped at "Libby's" on Highway 128, in Philo CA, for lunch. Both Marilyn and I had some of her roast pork(Carnites), Marilyn's on a soft Taco while I had the whole platter. Libby has been cooking in the area for 17 years, first at the Booneville Hotel and then in her own place for the last 11. It is the best and most authentic Mexican that we get. This cuisine is not high on either of our wish list.
That evening, in the Mendocino area we took the whole family to "La Petite Rive" 7750 N. Highway 1, Little River CA-707-937-4945. The restaurant is about 1 year old and this was our first exposure. It is our son's new favorite. The location, just of the highway, in a shared building with the Post office, in a convenient but not outstanding. There is a view of the ocean from a couple of tables. The have two seating's, 5:30 and 8, we went early, and hold about 25 customers. The meal is priced fixed, $36.50, a head, and has about 5 courses. It is a very bold venture, which in my opinion doesn't quite come off.
Our server was quite new and knew nothing about the wine list, which is compact and not cheap. I settled on a blend from some of the local vineyards which was satisfactory but at $15 per glass on the pricey side. My main course was rack of lamb, 2 ribs, while Marilyn had Petrolie Sole, one of her favorites. Others had everything from Beef to Pasta. A starter, salad, palette cleanser, main course and desert are all included with drinks extra. The service is very slow and the late seating occupied the parking lot while we had desert.
The next day, was our Granddaughter's High School Graduation. Lilly goes to the Mendocino Community School, a small alternative high school where the very bright and the uninterested, in formal education, work side by side in almost individual education. Her class was 22 and next year the graduating class will be 4. You get the idea.
The whole family met for lunch in Ft. Bragg at the Ft. Bragg Brewing Company and had a marinade of different salads, sandwiches and side items. Graduation started at 6:30 so Marilyn and I caught a burger at "Peterson's Pub" in Mendocino before hand. The ceremony, very informal, lasted about 3 hours. Anyone in the community who wants can say something about each graduate. Quite a few in the, very informal, audience bring books, puzzles, knitting etc.
Our last day, Friday, our son, his wife, Marilyn and I had lunch in Ft. Bragg at "Nit's" on route1. "Nit's is a very small, 6 tables, one person operation, possibly a helper at times, where a young Asia women does the cooking an serving. All items are made to order and are excellent. Marilyn had a very large Oriental salad, I had spicy seafood and our son had sweet and sour Halibut. It was a great lunch and I go as often as we are in the area. That evening, before we headed out, to spend the night, on the way to the Airport, we had dinner with Lilly at her favorite, "Viraporns Thai Cafe" 16801 Highway Rd, Ft Bragg CA. This restaurant is in a space across the street from a Motel and is much larger than the original which was in "Downtown" Ft. Bragg. It has been Lilly's favorite for many years and she always has the Pad Thai, as did Marilyn. Having had a large Asia lunch I ordered Pineapple fried rice and found it a portion I could handle along with a Thai beer.
Then it was on to the Hampton Inn and the next morning a flight back to Cincinnati. A wonderful 10 days almost all of which has been duly reported.
As usual we stoped at "Libby's" on Highway 128, in Philo CA, for lunch. Both Marilyn and I had some of her roast pork(Carnites), Marilyn's on a soft Taco while I had the whole platter. Libby has been cooking in the area for 17 years, first at the Booneville Hotel and then in her own place for the last 11. It is the best and most authentic Mexican that we get. This cuisine is not high on either of our wish list.
That evening, in the Mendocino area we took the whole family to "La Petite Rive" 7750 N. Highway 1, Little River CA-707-937-4945. The restaurant is about 1 year old and this was our first exposure. It is our son's new favorite. The location, just of the highway, in a shared building with the Post office, in a convenient but not outstanding. There is a view of the ocean from a couple of tables. The have two seating's, 5:30 and 8, we went early, and hold about 25 customers. The meal is priced fixed, $36.50, a head, and has about 5 courses. It is a very bold venture, which in my opinion doesn't quite come off.
Our server was quite new and knew nothing about the wine list, which is compact and not cheap. I settled on a blend from some of the local vineyards which was satisfactory but at $15 per glass on the pricey side. My main course was rack of lamb, 2 ribs, while Marilyn had Petrolie Sole, one of her favorites. Others had everything from Beef to Pasta. A starter, salad, palette cleanser, main course and desert are all included with drinks extra. The service is very slow and the late seating occupied the parking lot while we had desert.
The next day, was our Granddaughter's High School Graduation. Lilly goes to the Mendocino Community School, a small alternative high school where the very bright and the uninterested, in formal education, work side by side in almost individual education. Her class was 22 and next year the graduating class will be 4. You get the idea.
The whole family met for lunch in Ft. Bragg at the Ft. Bragg Brewing Company and had a marinade of different salads, sandwiches and side items. Graduation started at 6:30 so Marilyn and I caught a burger at "Peterson's Pub" in Mendocino before hand. The ceremony, very informal, lasted about 3 hours. Anyone in the community who wants can say something about each graduate. Quite a few in the, very informal, audience bring books, puzzles, knitting etc.
Our last day, Friday, our son, his wife, Marilyn and I had lunch in Ft. Bragg at "Nit's" on route1. "Nit's is a very small, 6 tables, one person operation, possibly a helper at times, where a young Asia women does the cooking an serving. All items are made to order and are excellent. Marilyn had a very large Oriental salad, I had spicy seafood and our son had sweet and sour Halibut. It was a great lunch and I go as often as we are in the area. That evening, before we headed out, to spend the night, on the way to the Airport, we had dinner with Lilly at her favorite, "Viraporns Thai Cafe" 16801 Highway Rd, Ft Bragg CA. This restaurant is in a space across the street from a Motel and is much larger than the original which was in "Downtown" Ft. Bragg. It has been Lilly's favorite for many years and she always has the Pad Thai, as did Marilyn. Having had a large Asia lunch I ordered Pineapple fried rice and found it a portion I could handle along with a Thai beer.
Then it was on to the Hampton Inn and the next morning a flight back to Cincinnati. A wonderful 10 days almost all of which has been duly reported.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Searching for Italian Food
After a wonderful night in Cambria we continued our drive north. The highway continued beautiful and curvy. A mid morning stop at a very small roadside establishment plus a slow drive thru the Carmel area brought us in the vicinity of Castroville around noon.
Castroville CA is the Artichoke Capitol of the world, by their own admission and thus an absolute must for an Artichoke lunch. After quizzing two Hispanic men and one Gringo we settled on "Green Artichoke Restaurant" 11261 Merritt St., Castroville CA-831-633-3501, the unanimous choice, possibly the only choice.
"Green Artichoke" is a large, clean full service establishment run by attractive young people, mostly Hispanic, as is the majority of the population in California vegetable growning country. They have an extensive menu and a nice looking salad bar, without Artichokes. We shared an Artichoke platter, enough for two, which included a hugh, but tender, steamed artichoke, with several sauces, fried and grilled artichoke hearts and artichoke bread, very much like Zucchini bread. We had plenty, it was good and I, not an artichoke lover as Marilyn is, don't have to do that again.
We arrive in San Francisco around 2:30 and after checking into our motel went to Marilyn's brother's home, in the Sunset District. Marilyn's brother is an Architect whose wife has Parkinson's and so he works out of his house. He is wonderful, caring and interesting but not into food the way we are.
On all visits we "carry in" mostly from one of the worst Chinese restaurants in SF and maybe further. Heavy brown sauces, over sweet seasonings and fairly sticky rice, you get the picture.
We had decided that we weren't going to let that happen so after consultation with his wife we voted for Italian. Now the adventure began. (Unfortunately this is somewhat of a "shaggy dog" story so you really don't have to continue. It did have a happy ending.)
Marilyn's brother, who has been on the west coast many years, claimed he has never eaten in a proprietor run Italian restaurant. San Fransisco has some of the best. The only place he remembered eating was the "Olive Garden". He made a short list of places in the general neighborhood and we took off. The first spot was basically a large bright watering hole with Burgers, Pizza and 2 Spaghetti dishes on a plastic card menu, not what I had in mind. The next was a meat market with a small deli counter and a bowl or two of macaroni salad. Next was an owner establishment who had no takeout menu and was reluctant to let us take the pages of their regular menu for the women to view. Finally we struck Gold, for the second time in California, in a neighborhood place also in the Sunset District. They found a carryout menu for us to take home, which we did. I must now come clean-I don't have any paper work and can't remember the name address or even the street of the restaurant.
We brought in a very good dinner, two orders of sweetbreads Marsala, my brother-in-law and I, one Veal with Lemon sauce and one mushroom stuffed ravioli, excellent. All's well that ends well,except this Blog entry. Sorry about that.
Castroville CA is the Artichoke Capitol of the world, by their own admission and thus an absolute must for an Artichoke lunch. After quizzing two Hispanic men and one Gringo we settled on "Green Artichoke Restaurant" 11261 Merritt St., Castroville CA-831-633-3501, the unanimous choice, possibly the only choice.
"Green Artichoke" is a large, clean full service establishment run by attractive young people, mostly Hispanic, as is the majority of the population in California vegetable growning country. They have an extensive menu and a nice looking salad bar, without Artichokes. We shared an Artichoke platter, enough for two, which included a hugh, but tender, steamed artichoke, with several sauces, fried and grilled artichoke hearts and artichoke bread, very much like Zucchini bread. We had plenty, it was good and I, not an artichoke lover as Marilyn is, don't have to do that again.
We arrive in San Francisco around 2:30 and after checking into our motel went to Marilyn's brother's home, in the Sunset District. Marilyn's brother is an Architect whose wife has Parkinson's and so he works out of his house. He is wonderful, caring and interesting but not into food the way we are.
On all visits we "carry in" mostly from one of the worst Chinese restaurants in SF and maybe further. Heavy brown sauces, over sweet seasonings and fairly sticky rice, you get the picture.
We had decided that we weren't going to let that happen so after consultation with his wife we voted for Italian. Now the adventure began. (Unfortunately this is somewhat of a "shaggy dog" story so you really don't have to continue. It did have a happy ending.)
Marilyn's brother, who has been on the west coast many years, claimed he has never eaten in a proprietor run Italian restaurant. San Fransisco has some of the best. The only place he remembered eating was the "Olive Garden". He made a short list of places in the general neighborhood and we took off. The first spot was basically a large bright watering hole with Burgers, Pizza and 2 Spaghetti dishes on a plastic card menu, not what I had in mind. The next was a meat market with a small deli counter and a bowl or two of macaroni salad. Next was an owner establishment who had no takeout menu and was reluctant to let us take the pages of their regular menu for the women to view. Finally we struck Gold, for the second time in California, in a neighborhood place also in the Sunset District. They found a carryout menu for us to take home, which we did. I must now come clean-I don't have any paper work and can't remember the name address or even the street of the restaurant.
We brought in a very good dinner, two orders of sweetbreads Marsala, my brother-in-law and I, one Veal with Lemon sauce and one mushroom stuffed ravioli, excellent. All's well that ends well,except this Blog entry. Sorry about that.
Monday, June 22, 2009
P.C.H.
The Pacific Coast Highway(PCH), California Route 1 runs from San Diego, in the South, to Crescent City CA, near the Oregon border. When is can it hugs the coast. It is not the fastest route but certainly the most scenic.
Two weeks ago we left our sons house in LA and three blocks later were on the PCH headed North.
We had rented a car at LAX and when it had some problems it was replaced by a full sized model. We did not want to drive, that, over a 1000 miles, gas is approx. $3/gal so we had arranged to trade this in for a 3rd car at the Santa Barbara airport. Thus, that was our fist stop.
The "Hertz Lady" suggested we have lunch at Goleta Beach, less than 2 miles from the airport and luckily we took her suggestion. Goleta Beach is just a sandy strip with a public park and the "Beachside Bar and Cafe" 5905 Sandspit( what else) Road, Goleta Beach-805-964-7881.
To our surprise the parking lot was full and with a wait for a table of 30 minutes or more. We took a seat at the bar where they serve the regular menu, as well as beer and wine. The "Beachside" is a typical ocean side establishment, a little nicer than most, with views of the surf, sand and a pier. It obviously is know in the Santa Barbara area. The food was way above expectations and the service was prompt and pleasant. Marilyn started with a grilled artichoke, perfectly prepared, and I had the "El Dorado" sandwich, grilled Mahi with a Caribbean salsa and served with a rice pilaf and cut fruit, a wonderful platter. Since Marilyn's appetite is unbounded, currently, and so she ordered a burger and ate 3/4. I can't let food go to waste, so all was demolished. A very satisfying lunch.
Our daughter-in-law had suggested the we break our trip and spend the night in Cambria, CA., which we did.
Cambria is a charming sea-side town, half way between LA and San Francisco. It is similar to Carmel before "Starbucks", and others, invaded. We stayed at a motel, on the ocean. The balance of the afternoon, about two hours, was spend in individually owned shops, galleries, wine stores and restaurant shopping. Luckily we choose "The Black Cat" 1602 Main St. Cambria CA-805-927-1600, for dinner. After a short rest we returned to "The Black Cat" at seven. It is a small American Bistro with a somewhat limited menu and an extensive wine list. On Monday night all the service was handled by one server and his backup. The kitchen staff seems to be about 4 in number including the chef-owner, a Sous-chef, a prep person and a dishwasher. There were eight tables in the dinning room another 4 on the deck and a wine and food bar. Service was surprisingly good and attentive.
I started with a salad of greens, roasted beets, goat cheese and spiced pecans. Next for a main course I had pan seared scallops, in a light butter and wine sauce and grilled baby Brussels Sprouts. The wine I chose was an Austrian White(Greuner) and since it was not on the "by the glass" list I was hesitant. The server told me that any, except the most expensive wines, would be served by the glass. They will add the remainder to the open list or the staff will finish. The pour was over 6 oz and when I still wanted additional he told me he would bring a half portion, if I desired. A very generous and customer friendly wine policy.
For desert I chose a fresh Plumb upside down cake topped with a light, home-made whipped cream. The cake was served warm and was delicious. No trouble sleeping with the sound of the ocean and an overstuffed gastro-intestinal system.
Two weeks ago we left our sons house in LA and three blocks later were on the PCH headed North.
We had rented a car at LAX and when it had some problems it was replaced by a full sized model. We did not want to drive, that, over a 1000 miles, gas is approx. $3/gal so we had arranged to trade this in for a 3rd car at the Santa Barbara airport. Thus, that was our fist stop.
The "Hertz Lady" suggested we have lunch at Goleta Beach, less than 2 miles from the airport and luckily we took her suggestion. Goleta Beach is just a sandy strip with a public park and the "Beachside Bar and Cafe" 5905 Sandspit( what else) Road, Goleta Beach-805-964-7881.
To our surprise the parking lot was full and with a wait for a table of 30 minutes or more. We took a seat at the bar where they serve the regular menu, as well as beer and wine. The "Beachside" is a typical ocean side establishment, a little nicer than most, with views of the surf, sand and a pier. It obviously is know in the Santa Barbara area. The food was way above expectations and the service was prompt and pleasant. Marilyn started with a grilled artichoke, perfectly prepared, and I had the "El Dorado" sandwich, grilled Mahi with a Caribbean salsa and served with a rice pilaf and cut fruit, a wonderful platter. Since Marilyn's appetite is unbounded, currently, and so she ordered a burger and ate 3/4. I can't let food go to waste, so all was demolished. A very satisfying lunch.
Our daughter-in-law had suggested the we break our trip and spend the night in Cambria, CA., which we did.
Cambria is a charming sea-side town, half way between LA and San Francisco. It is similar to Carmel before "Starbucks", and others, invaded. We stayed at a motel, on the ocean. The balance of the afternoon, about two hours, was spend in individually owned shops, galleries, wine stores and restaurant shopping. Luckily we choose "The Black Cat" 1602 Main St. Cambria CA-805-927-1600, for dinner. After a short rest we returned to "The Black Cat" at seven. It is a small American Bistro with a somewhat limited menu and an extensive wine list. On Monday night all the service was handled by one server and his backup. The kitchen staff seems to be about 4 in number including the chef-owner, a Sous-chef, a prep person and a dishwasher. There were eight tables in the dinning room another 4 on the deck and a wine and food bar. Service was surprisingly good and attentive.
I started with a salad of greens, roasted beets, goat cheese and spiced pecans. Next for a main course I had pan seared scallops, in a light butter and wine sauce and grilled baby Brussels Sprouts. The wine I chose was an Austrian White(Greuner) and since it was not on the "by the glass" list I was hesitant. The server told me that any, except the most expensive wines, would be served by the glass. They will add the remainder to the open list or the staff will finish. The pour was over 6 oz and when I still wanted additional he told me he would bring a half portion, if I desired. A very generous and customer friendly wine policy.
For desert I chose a fresh Plumb upside down cake topped with a light, home-made whipped cream. The cake was served warm and was delicious. No trouble sleeping with the sound of the ocean and an overstuffed gastro-intestinal system.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Father's Day
I just noticed that it has been almost three weeks since my last posting. Slight explanation in a bit.
Today is Father's Day and truthfully I am thinking more about our Grandchildren than our three wonderful children. To quote Bill Cosby,"if I had know how much fun the Grandchildren would be I'd have rented the children".
We have been to 3 Graduations in the last 30 days. Our Granddaughter's in St Louis, was covered fully, and two additional Grandchildren, one of each gender, in California. We were gone a good 10 days and then returned home to some changed family conditions with our daughter, here in Cincinnati.
A brief word about the 2 High School Graduations in California. They were extremely different. The LA one was beautiful, formal and run like clockwork. The Mendocino event was typical North Coast, warm, personal and expansive. We spent time with family at both.
Now a few comments on meals we had, out, around and between events.
In LA we took two younger siblings to 'Pizzicotto" 11758 San Vicente Blvd, Brentwood, CA 90049-310-442-7188. It bills itself as an Italian market Bistro and it is certainly Italian. The space is thin with a large display case and kitchen taking up a major part of the first floor, although there are tables in the front and on the side. Upstairs are approximately 8 tables capable of seating 4 to 8. We were upstairs seated next to the counter holding open wine bottles, cheeses and condiments, a regular self service spot for we foodies.
Marilyn and the 2 offspring shared and excellent, thin crust pizza of fresh tomato's and prosciutto, an order of Gnocchi and one of Angel Hair Bolognese. I was more adventurous and chose one of the specials a wonderful full dish of Black Squid Ink Pasta, fresh tomato's, roast Garlic, and large prawns all topped with a sauteed soft shell crab. The waiter warned that it was a lot for one, and it was, but I was up to it. It took a couple bottles of Italian Beer to help the digestion. I will gladly return to "Pizzicotto", although it is a long way for dinner from Cincinnati.
Today is Father's Day and truthfully I am thinking more about our Grandchildren than our three wonderful children. To quote Bill Cosby,"if I had know how much fun the Grandchildren would be I'd have rented the children".
We have been to 3 Graduations in the last 30 days. Our Granddaughter's in St Louis, was covered fully, and two additional Grandchildren, one of each gender, in California. We were gone a good 10 days and then returned home to some changed family conditions with our daughter, here in Cincinnati.
A brief word about the 2 High School Graduations in California. They were extremely different. The LA one was beautiful, formal and run like clockwork. The Mendocino event was typical North Coast, warm, personal and expansive. We spent time with family at both.
Now a few comments on meals we had, out, around and between events.
In LA we took two younger siblings to 'Pizzicotto" 11758 San Vicente Blvd, Brentwood, CA 90049-310-442-7188. It bills itself as an Italian market Bistro and it is certainly Italian. The space is thin with a large display case and kitchen taking up a major part of the first floor, although there are tables in the front and on the side. Upstairs are approximately 8 tables capable of seating 4 to 8. We were upstairs seated next to the counter holding open wine bottles, cheeses and condiments, a regular self service spot for we foodies.
Marilyn and the 2 offspring shared and excellent, thin crust pizza of fresh tomato's and prosciutto, an order of Gnocchi and one of Angel Hair Bolognese. I was more adventurous and chose one of the specials a wonderful full dish of Black Squid Ink Pasta, fresh tomato's, roast Garlic, and large prawns all topped with a sauteed soft shell crab. The waiter warned that it was a lot for one, and it was, but I was up to it. It took a couple bottles of Italian Beer to help the digestion. I will gladly return to "Pizzicotto", although it is a long way for dinner from Cincinnati.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Two interesting repeats
Tuesday night we went with some of our young friends to "Brown Dog Cafe" 5893 Pfeiffer Rd. Blue Ash, OH 45242 -513-794-1610. We had been there once before under different ownership and with different "friends". The previous time, which was years ago and our first, and only, visit was marred by nothing being satisfactory to the other couple. Hard to enjoy any meal under those circumstances. This time was entirely different.
The current Chef/proprietor is Shawn McCoy and Tuesday night he was a master of ingredients, flavors and presentation. For my dinner Marilyn and I split a "Maza" appetizer (a Mideastern sampler). Approximately 6 items based on Olives, tomato's, cucumbers etc. plus humus and nicely toasted Pita. Of course I started with Bombay and the only less than perfect items were the cocktail onions which are good sized but not crisp.
I followed with a salad of spinach leaves, grape tomato's, diced HB Egg and Gorgonzola. It was dressed perfectly, for my taste, with a light creamy, slightly spiced dressing. My main course was Boar, a meat with which I am not familiar. The four small medallions were prepared medium rare and produced a flavor somewhat like tenderloin but more firm and with a slightly undomesticated flavor. It was accompanied with a Cos Cos, bathed in a citrus juice and fresh asparagus and mashed avocado. A wonderful mix of sights and flavors, "well done chef". Besides sharing the Maza plate Marilyn had beautiful duck breast, of which I was given one nibble. The Prednizone has increased her appetite and she is not into sharing. Total cost including coffee was approximately $32 each before tip. A beautiful meal well worth the price.
Tonight we returned to "Boca" 3200 Madison Road, 45209, 513-542-2022, for the first time in several years. On previous visits we were not too please with portion size and price points.
Richard Brown, formerly of "Pigalle" has taken over as head of hospitality, and since he is a true friend, we followed him and at his suggestion came on a Wednesday night, when they serve Pizza, $10 to $14, in the Bar. He arranged a table and although the special Pizza menu was given to us, we chose the regular "Bar " menu instead. Richard tell us the Pizza are large enough to split but I am slightly skeptical as portion size does not seem to have increased, measurably.
Marilyn and I split a roasted Cesar salad, a spear of Romaine infused with an excellent Cesar dressing, the Boca sliders, one each, made of ground tenderloin an seasoned very nicely, and an order of Pappardelle Bolognese. The Pasta is made in house as is the sauce. The sauce had the best and most distinctive flavor of the evening, although for my taste the kitchen has a heavy hand with the Sodium. As I said the portions remain small but Richard was correct that cost for this first class restaurant is reasonable. Our check, including a good Argentinian Red wine and Marilyn's Cranberry Juice and soda was $46 for the two of us before tip.
Richard sent a small desert to each of us. Marilyn's was a dense, dark chocolate tort while I received and extremely light cheesecake timble with Camel and maple sauce. A sweet way to end a sweet evening. Now were off to California for 12 days, more on that when I return, I'm sure pounds heavier.
The current Chef/proprietor is Shawn McCoy and Tuesday night he was a master of ingredients, flavors and presentation. For my dinner Marilyn and I split a "Maza" appetizer (a Mideastern sampler). Approximately 6 items based on Olives, tomato's, cucumbers etc. plus humus and nicely toasted Pita. Of course I started with Bombay and the only less than perfect items were the cocktail onions which are good sized but not crisp.
I followed with a salad of spinach leaves, grape tomato's, diced HB Egg and Gorgonzola. It was dressed perfectly, for my taste, with a light creamy, slightly spiced dressing. My main course was Boar, a meat with which I am not familiar. The four small medallions were prepared medium rare and produced a flavor somewhat like tenderloin but more firm and with a slightly undomesticated flavor. It was accompanied with a Cos Cos, bathed in a citrus juice and fresh asparagus and mashed avocado. A wonderful mix of sights and flavors, "well done chef". Besides sharing the Maza plate Marilyn had beautiful duck breast, of which I was given one nibble. The Prednizone has increased her appetite and she is not into sharing. Total cost including coffee was approximately $32 each before tip. A beautiful meal well worth the price.
Tonight we returned to "Boca" 3200 Madison Road, 45209, 513-542-2022, for the first time in several years. On previous visits we were not too please with portion size and price points.
Richard Brown, formerly of "Pigalle" has taken over as head of hospitality, and since he is a true friend, we followed him and at his suggestion came on a Wednesday night, when they serve Pizza, $10 to $14, in the Bar. He arranged a table and although the special Pizza menu was given to us, we chose the regular "Bar " menu instead. Richard tell us the Pizza are large enough to split but I am slightly skeptical as portion size does not seem to have increased, measurably.
Marilyn and I split a roasted Cesar salad, a spear of Romaine infused with an excellent Cesar dressing, the Boca sliders, one each, made of ground tenderloin an seasoned very nicely, and an order of Pappardelle Bolognese. The Pasta is made in house as is the sauce. The sauce had the best and most distinctive flavor of the evening, although for my taste the kitchen has a heavy hand with the Sodium. As I said the portions remain small but Richard was correct that cost for this first class restaurant is reasonable. Our check, including a good Argentinian Red wine and Marilyn's Cranberry Juice and soda was $46 for the two of us before tip.
Richard sent a small desert to each of us. Marilyn's was a dense, dark chocolate tort while I received and extremely light cheesecake timble with Camel and maple sauce. A sweet way to end a sweet evening. Now were off to California for 12 days, more on that when I return, I'm sure pounds heavier.
Two Great Meals
Our two Cincinnati Granddaughters, we have 5, returned to Cincinnati last week, from college. One has graduated and the other will be a Sophomore next year. They wanted to try some place "new and fun". Good food, in this family, does not have to be mentioned. Marilyn suggested "Bootsy's", Walnut between 6th and 7th, an excellent choice. We had been there before and it is on the Blog a month or two ago. Again we were not disappointed, and if anything the food has improved.
We had a 7 PM reservation which was honored promptly. The last two visits we have been seated in the same, front section, booth. The Booths are spacious but a little wide for easy conversation. Once again I asked that the music be turned down, which happened promptly.
All of us shared an array of delicious, small plates(tapis). The Calamari remains outstanding. Other items, also very good, were the Duck Tacos, Plantains and Cesar Salad while the Fish Taco's remains to bland for my taste. Our eldest Granddaughter and I divided the Seafood Paella, for two, while her younger sister had the short ribs, beautifully done and very tasty and Marilyn had a wonderful piece of Flounder. The food was all excellent and the service matched.
Drinks, Bombay, of course, and two glasses of wine plus coffee brought the total tab a slight bit above $140 before tip. Extremely reasonable for the quality and amount of food served. Some of the Paella, even went home with Granddaughter and we are not light eaters.
The next night it was back to "Oriental Wok" at The Regency. This spot is getting to be a habit. There were seven that evening, all immediate family, and the main draw was fresh Soft Shell Crabs. Five of the seven are devotees. Guy, the Chef, fixed them 2 ways and being an adventurous group we all asked for our portion to have some of each. We each received one fried and the other sauteed in a Wok with five spices.
After several round of drinks, for the ancients, and a smattering for the others, we started with a large platter of their excellent appetizers. I have yet to find one I don't like or that was not prepared very well. Next came the main courses, mostly crab, as mentioned, accompanied by rice of ones choice. Guy sent a portion of eggplant for the table. The vegetable had been peeled, cut into chunks and steamed before he mixed it with a very light creamy tofu sauce containing a mixture of equally mild herbs and spices, delicious. For desert we all shared one helping of ice cream and birthday cake, on the house, plus a large white chocolate scone, baked on the premises, covered with ice cream, fresh strawberries and just to make sure it is rich enough, a large amount of whipped cream. You need half a dozen, just to share.
We keep going back because the food, service and hospitality are all remarkable. The "Oriental Wok" is not a $4.95, Chinese Buffet, and it doesn't compete on price, but nothing about it is in that class and the seafood is as good, if not better, than any you can find in the city. It's a first class dining experience at a reasonable price.
We had a 7 PM reservation which was honored promptly. The last two visits we have been seated in the same, front section, booth. The Booths are spacious but a little wide for easy conversation. Once again I asked that the music be turned down, which happened promptly.
All of us shared an array of delicious, small plates(tapis). The Calamari remains outstanding. Other items, also very good, were the Duck Tacos, Plantains and Cesar Salad while the Fish Taco's remains to bland for my taste. Our eldest Granddaughter and I divided the Seafood Paella, for two, while her younger sister had the short ribs, beautifully done and very tasty and Marilyn had a wonderful piece of Flounder. The food was all excellent and the service matched.
Drinks, Bombay, of course, and two glasses of wine plus coffee brought the total tab a slight bit above $140 before tip. Extremely reasonable for the quality and amount of food served. Some of the Paella, even went home with Granddaughter and we are not light eaters.
The next night it was back to "Oriental Wok" at The Regency. This spot is getting to be a habit. There were seven that evening, all immediate family, and the main draw was fresh Soft Shell Crabs. Five of the seven are devotees. Guy, the Chef, fixed them 2 ways and being an adventurous group we all asked for our portion to have some of each. We each received one fried and the other sauteed in a Wok with five spices.
After several round of drinks, for the ancients, and a smattering for the others, we started with a large platter of their excellent appetizers. I have yet to find one I don't like or that was not prepared very well. Next came the main courses, mostly crab, as mentioned, accompanied by rice of ones choice. Guy sent a portion of eggplant for the table. The vegetable had been peeled, cut into chunks and steamed before he mixed it with a very light creamy tofu sauce containing a mixture of equally mild herbs and spices, delicious. For desert we all shared one helping of ice cream and birthday cake, on the house, plus a large white chocolate scone, baked on the premises, covered with ice cream, fresh strawberries and just to make sure it is rich enough, a large amount of whipped cream. You need half a dozen, just to share.
We keep going back because the food, service and hospitality are all remarkable. The "Oriental Wok" is not a $4.95, Chinese Buffet, and it doesn't compete on price, but nothing about it is in that class and the seafood is as good, if not better, than any you can find in the city. It's a first class dining experience at a reasonable price.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Nectar Dinner Club
Every month to six weeks Julie Francis, Chef/Owner opens her restaurant, "Nectar", 1000 Delta Ave, 45208, for a special dinner. It is by reservation only and usually held once or twice. during a week or less. For this price fixed and set 5 course dinner the charge is $55/person. At each dinner Julie features one item, usually locally produced, and uses this ingredient in all the courses. In the past she has featured everything from mustard to asparagus. Last Thursday it was Chives, grown by Sallie Ransohoff.
The menu offered Vichyssoise with Shrimp and a chive Remoulade, Athena Melon with Smoked Prosciutto and a Chive vinaigreete, Smoked Wild Columbia River Salmon with Chive Corn Cakes and chive Veloute, Soy Glazed Pork Shoulder with Asian Stir-fry and a Garlic Chive/Herb salad and for desert Bing Cherry and Peach Tart with Honey and Chive Blossom Ice Cream.
Chives, to me, have a mild flavor and when mixed with other ingredients are too mild to have a noticeable presence. But I hand it to Julie for imagination and wonderfully prepared food.
The Vichyssoise was wonderfully smooth and creamy and a second bowl would not have been remiss, if I could have chosen to do that and skip the next course. The Melon, new to me, was reminiscent of ripe cantaloupe but softer and sweeter. I found the Salmon dry, but then I like mine medium rare and juicy, but the Chive Corn Cakes were a real treat, again I could have eaten more, although the 2 were more than ample.
Pork Shoulder was very good and compared favorably to that I had the week before at "Slims", which I thought excellent. And finally the Tart was another winner, warm, crisp and sweetend just enough as to not override the fruit.
Julie is wise enough to serve exactly the right amount to satisfy without a stuffed feeling. If you like interesting food get on the Nectar mailing list and attend several of these evenings and be your own judge, I really enjoy them and we have been joined by other couples whom I am sure feel the same way.
As a final historical note: I am old enough to remember sitting in Mechlenburg's Garden in the 1930's and 40's and eating "schmearcase" an extremely smooth cottage cheese, covered with Chives, spread on good Germany rye bread. Now that's the way to have Chives.
The menu offered Vichyssoise with Shrimp and a chive Remoulade, Athena Melon with Smoked Prosciutto and a Chive vinaigreete, Smoked Wild Columbia River Salmon with Chive Corn Cakes and chive Veloute, Soy Glazed Pork Shoulder with Asian Stir-fry and a Garlic Chive/Herb salad and for desert Bing Cherry and Peach Tart with Honey and Chive Blossom Ice Cream.
Chives, to me, have a mild flavor and when mixed with other ingredients are too mild to have a noticeable presence. But I hand it to Julie for imagination and wonderfully prepared food.
The Vichyssoise was wonderfully smooth and creamy and a second bowl would not have been remiss, if I could have chosen to do that and skip the next course. The Melon, new to me, was reminiscent of ripe cantaloupe but softer and sweeter. I found the Salmon dry, but then I like mine medium rare and juicy, but the Chive Corn Cakes were a real treat, again I could have eaten more, although the 2 were more than ample.
Pork Shoulder was very good and compared favorably to that I had the week before at "Slims", which I thought excellent. And finally the Tart was another winner, warm, crisp and sweetend just enough as to not override the fruit.
Julie is wise enough to serve exactly the right amount to satisfy without a stuffed feeling. If you like interesting food get on the Nectar mailing list and attend several of these evenings and be your own judge, I really enjoy them and we have been joined by other couples whom I am sure feel the same way.
As a final historical note: I am old enough to remember sitting in Mechlenburg's Garden in the 1930's and 40's and eating "schmearcase" an extremely smooth cottage cheese, covered with Chives, spread on good Germany rye bread. Now that's the way to have Chives.
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