Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Two Mondays

It is not very often that we go to the same place two Monday's in a row. But when a couple, from Indian Hill, who are good friends, had an open night, on Monday, and we had to once again visit Costco, all things came together and we had dinner last evening at the terrific "Phoenician Taverna" 7944 S.Mason Montgomery Road, Mason, OH 45040 (513) 770-0027. Once again we were lead through the evening by the delightful owner, Wassim Matar, who also doubled as the Chef last night.
Wassim believes that every dinner, for more than one, should be served "family style" with all partaking of the tastes, aroma's and eye appeal of all the dishes. To him wine is also a necessary beverage for total enjoyment. The wine list at "Taverna" is one of the most price friendly I have ever seen.
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Last night our Maze( first courses) were an outstanding eggplant salad, served as a base for a Falafel( fried chickpea patty) drizzled with a yogurt dressing. The two other items, along with the warm Pita loafs, were a wonderful crushed walnut paste, slightly sweet and very slightly spiced and a Tabbouleh( parsley salad with diced tomato's and onions) bright green and reeking of healthiness.
Our two, shared, Main Courses were the outstanding Lamb Shank( described in an earlier posting, under "A Glass of Wine) and small slices of roast lamb( medium) with a Lebanese pesto. The roast lamb was accompanied by slices of oven fried potato's, perfectly done.
The wife, of our friends, had Chardonnay by the glass( $4.50) while the other gentleman and I managed to kill a bottle of highly acceptable "Cote de Rhone"( unbelievably $17).
We skipped dessert but did end up with coffee, a must for Marilyn.
Doubt that we'll return next Monday night, but I would be willing, three in a row is a charm.

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Thanksgiving

So what do you do on Thanksgiving? Have family, eat Turkey, watch football and possibly have multiple trips to the airport. Well, we did all, with very little emphasis on the football.
Most of our children, all our Grandchildren, and a nephew, with his family, and a niece, with hers, joined us, so, at the max, we had 22. Here's part of the food run down:

Wednesday night we carried in from "Eli's BBQ" 3313 Riverside Drive 45226 ( Cash or Check only). The order was spread between Pulled Pork and Hickory Smoked Turkey Sandwiches and a large order of Hickory Smoked Ribs. Along with this was plenty of sauce and side orders of Cheese Macaroni, Baked Beans and Cole Slaw.
Next day was here, at Grandma's and Grandpa's, with half of Kroger's on the kitchen counter, we had to save the other half for Saturday lunch.
Thanksgiving evening the whole gang occupied two round tables at Losantiville Country Club. Maximum age at one table was 26. The club provided an ample spread with all the traditional favorites plus, standing rib roast, fried chicken, steamed fish and several different, non traditional, sides. Six different pies were available for those who had room. All of the younger set had everything and several of the older followed suite.
Friday lunch was "Skyline" and "Graeter's" plus additions, always, for those who stoped by for a SNACK.
Friday night was two 17" Pizza's( too large) from "Dewey's Pizza" Madison Road 513-731-7755. One all veggie and one a killer meat combo. Besides the Pizza's, but from the same area ( Oakley) we brought in Grouper Sandwiches and Cheeseburgers from the "Oakley Pub and Grill" 3924 Isabella Ave 513-531-2500. Plenty of crispy slaw and well done French Fries( too thick for my taste) also made the journey. Dessert was Marilyn homemade, and always in demand, "Cracker Crum Pie:" a family favorite.
Saturday, lunch, here, with again the counter loaded with new items and "left overs".
Saturday night we let the staff at the "Oriental Wok" Regency handle the never failing appetites.
Starting with Ribs, Egg Rolls and Pot stickers we worked our way thru; Chinese mustard greens with Chinese sausage, Orange Beef ( my favorite), Shrimp with asparagus, Chicken with Oyster & Shitake mushrooms and the perennial favorite Pad Thai.
For the few left this morning I made an egg scramble with sauteed onions, grape tomato's and chopped Salami. Rye and white toast, jam and orange juice finished the weekend.

It was a wonderful family affair and food was only part of the fun and comradeship.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

A Glass of Wine

When someone offers to share a glass of wine it is usually a sign of friendship, or at least that is the way I took it when the owner of "Phoenican Taverna" 7944 Mason Montgomery Road, Mason, Ohio 45040 (513) 770-0027, offered me a taste of a very fruity Riesling. It was the explanation point to end a wonderful evening.
Four of us ventured to the far side of Cincinnati, at least for those of us with a river view, but every mile was worth the trip. The food, service and hospitality couldn't have better. The restaurant is in its second month of operation and they "have their act together". The proprietor is very much in evidence and the results show his attention and concern.
We decided, under his guidence, to eat :"family style" and so we all had tastes, or more, of all the dishes.
After ordering, and opening the wine( Malbec) we waited a short time and the 5 small, not tiny, portions of appetizers (Mezza) arrived. I'll use the English translations: Eggplant Dip, Stuffed grape leaves ( rice and meat stuffing) Cheese Pies( flakey dough filled with Feta and Mozzarella) Chickpeas Fritters ( wonderful Falafel) and Chopped Vegetables with Toasted Pita chips ( Fattoush with a slightly sharp garlic dressing). The basket of warm Pita, which accompanied this, turned our to be individual loaf sized and pleantiful.
For our main course they served an outstanding Braised Lamb Shank in a fesh tomato sauce. (Mouzat) as good, if not better, than any we have enjoyed. The meat was braised perfectly but the sauce really was the crowning touch. None of the sauce remained after we cleaned the plate with our indiviual Pita's.
The other course was a mixed grill( chicken, beef and lamb) served with rice pilaf and grilled vegetables. The grill had two distinct sauces, both served on the side.
Desserts were the traditional Baklawa, one with roasted Pistachios, my favorite, and the other with roasted Walnuts. Both pieces were covered, lighly, with orange blossom syrup.
It was a wondeful exciting meal and our compliments go to all concerned.

Another new, for us, and entirly different was "Wunderbar" 1132 Lee St. Covington, KY 41011.(859-815-8027. This is a Bar which is open 7 days a week and whose owner Marshall Mann, cooks and supervises the whole operation.
Agroup of 12 of us went( they have two large picnic tables and bar seating) for lunch and he really laid out a spread.
Most of the sausages, which seemed to be the meats available that day, are made in house. We had Knughtwerst, Bratwurst, Curried Metts and plain Metts, wrapped in Bacon. There are 4 house made mustards; hot, horseradish, Reisling and sweet. Along with all these meat items, he laid upon us, roast Brussels Sprouts, Red Cabbage, Onion pies, Spetzel dumplings in gravey and small slices of apple strudel accented with chocolat sauce. Also on the table where large doughy pretzels, rye bread toast and home baked rolls, all acompanied with garlic butter and sweet butter. The Germans do believe in heavy full meals. Unfortuatly I'm from that stock.

Another lunch this week was quite the opposite. "Essencha Tea House" 3212a Madison Road, Cincinnati OH 45209 (513)533-4832 is just what the name implies. As one sits down you are presented with a taste of hot tea. The the menu is delivered, mostly soups, sandwiches and salads. The two of us split a pear and pecan salad, on greens, a smoked salmon and avacado sandwich and a side of braised carrots. A good antidote from eating too much at "Wunderbar".

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Good Eat's

When Marilyn was in college, in Boston, she frequented a "hole in the wall" eating place with a sign in the window that said "Good Eat's".
There are some that fit that description, here ( Cincinnati), but quite a few others who aren't "holes in the wall" but still offer "Good Eats"; here are a few:

"BrewRiver GastroPub" 2062 Riverside Drive 513-861-2484. This reconditioned BrewPub has taken over "Mirabelle's" old spot with, in my opinion, a better chef and more interesting menu. The Chef is Michael Shields and his New Orleans training comes through in many of his dishes. Early last week we, joined by a friend, had a delicious Walleye dinner. The perfectly sauteed fish was presented on a bed of pureed Cauliflower, seasoned to perfection. Also on the plate were Asparagus Spears and quartered fresh tomato's. A pleasing dish to the taste and the eye. I had their recommended Blonde Ale and was very satisfied. Our friend chose Buttermilk Amish Chicken with a side of spicy cole slaw. For dessert the three of us split an order of "Arrogant Brownies", three rich and chewy, drizzled with Carmel sauce.
We have also been there for lunch and have had salads, BLT's, Muffaletta's and fine Hamburger's. Give the place a try.

"Alfio's Buon Ciba" 2724 Erie Ave. 45208 (513) 321-0555 has taken over the space on Hyde Park Square last occupied by "Poco a Poco". The Chef, Alfio Gulisano, left "The View" and opened this restaurant approximately 2 weeks ago. There are still a few items to work out but the food is very acceptable and the service is improving. The hospitaity is first rate.
Marilyn and I split an excellent Iceberg Wedge Salad with a slightly spicy Crab and Basil dressing, both items complimented each other perfectly. My main course was Pan seared Scallops on fresh spinach and fettuccine, all in a light cream and wine sauce. Marilyn had roast Veal Short Ribs, very tasty but somewhat chewy. The ribs were served on soft Polenta, decorated with green Asparagus. A most attractive and hearty dish.

"Cumin" Eclectic Cuisine" 3520 Erie Ave 45208 (513) 871-8714. I like what Owen Mass has done to the menu at "Cumin" but some of the prices are beginning to reach " over the top" levels. An example is an appetizer of sweetbread's with 4 small pieces for $16.
My main course was a beautifully done Elk Chop, fixed in the "soui-vie" fashion and served with sliced mushrooms and Polenta while Marilyn stuck with the Agnolotti, large ravioli, stuffed with cheese and spinach. The glass of Cotes de Rhone was a nice pour and went wonderfully with the Elk. I hope that commodities allow the prices to stabilize as I enjoy dining at "Cumin" and hope pricing does not drive us away.

Some brief info on Over The Rhine (OTR).
"The Anchor" 1401 Race St 45202 (513) 421-8111 is now open for lunch as well as dinner. The combo plate for $11 includes either a cup of very rich, and good, chowder or a salad and half of several interesting sandwiches. I had the oyster Poor-Boy.
Some new spots about to open( probably in the next three months) are "Zula" a wine bar and tapas place just across the street from "The Anchor" on Race St. "Hapa" Vietnamese fusion at 14th and Vine and "Kaze" Japanese, also in the same neighborhood. We are blessed with the spirit of expansion in the eating out area.

Monday, November 12, 2012

"Fit for a Chef"

Last night Marilyn and I along with Todd Kelly( "Orchid's") and his wife, Emily, had dinner at the "Oriental Wok" Regency in Hyde Park. I had made arrangements with Guy Burgess, the chef, and Susannah Wong, his wife for the occasion. We left ourselves in the hands of these two and Guy produced and outstanding meal. I will try to recount as best I can, using some author's licence.

After drinks, and there was a bit of this through out the evening, Guy started us with 4 individual plates holding Jelly Fish Slaw, Beef Tendon and Pork Belly. The Slaw had pieces of gelatinous "jelly fish" marinated with crispy bean sprouts, scallion slices and carrot strips. Pungent, crisp and tasty, as well as attractive.
The Beef Tendon had been roasted to a beautiful pink with the meat surrounded by the tendon caseing, again a gelatinous material and a favorite of Marilyn. On the other hand the Pork Belly had a crispy, seasoned out side with the tender meat beneath.
Next came a steaming bowl of Chinese Beef Soup. The broth was fairly clear and it contained small clumps of ground beef, pure white firm dough pieces, bright green fresh peas, scallion bits and herbs and spices light enough not to cover the flavors of the individual items.
This was followed by Moo Shu Duck. A large platter of roasted duck brest arrived with three large pieces sliced into small individual helpings. The thin pancakes and sides of cucumber strips and again scallion slices were offered along with indidual helpings of plumb sauce. A perfect build you own creation. Some built while others just dipped.( Have no idea what changes the type). A friend sent over a half bottle of red wine, and who are we to refuse.

These were all the preamble to the three main( bad pun) courses. Maine Lobster Cantonese, a two pound Lobster cut into pieces and cooked in a favorable sauce. One has to wrestle with the shell but the end product is well worth the little effort. Bright Chinese Greens, steamed and doused with a light butter sauce and a large pot of Chinese Grilled Sausage and perfectly prepared white rice filled our table, and the rest of our stomachs. Who could resist a Kentucky Bourbon barrel aged beer, with these items.
Coffee, tea and a light dessert of fresh fruit and lichee nuts augmented with mango pudding triangles finished the stuffing of 4 happy dinners. Thanks to all at the "Oriental Wok" for a wonderful evening.

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Catch up

Since we seem to eat out about 4 nights a week we repeat restaurants and even dishes with some regularity.
Once in a while I just have to list a few places with a comment or two, to clear the desk, so here goes.

"JT's" 1639 Orrington Ave. Evanston, IL- heart of Evanston, Breakfast all day, for $9 you can get enough so you don't have to eat till dinner.
"The National Exemplar" 6880 Wooster Pike 45227- the new chef is slowly working in some new items; all the "oldies" are still there but a new Caesar Salad and Sweetbreads have made the scene.
"Oakley Pub and Grill" 3924 Isabella Ave. 45209- we're the oldest by 40 years but there isn't a better Grouper Sandwich in the area. Easy to "carry out" (nicely packed).
"Brio Tuscan Grille" 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY- it's a well run chain Italian with very tasty dishes. I tried the Shrimp Verduta and the flavor and richness were both evident.
"La Poste" 3410 Telford, Clifton- no matter what you eat and drink, and all is good and interesting, save room for the outstanding Bread Pudding
"Oriental Wok" Regency- Hyde Park- appitizers are great, bar available for singles, food cooked to order and they all read the book on hospitality.
"Otto's" 521 Main St. Covington KY- now serving their "take off" on my short ribs( not bad). As I've said before it's one of our "Homes away from Home".
"Carrabba's Italian Grill" 5 mile and Beechmont- another Italian chain, not quite as good as "Brio" but certainly acceptable.
"Great Scott" 3355 Madison Road, Cincinnati- don't go for ambiance but the menu is large and items are well prepared. I've had everything from Walleye to a Hamburger and been satisfied.

There you see how we keep the economy functioning over an 2 to 3 week period.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Two New

It's not very often I get to report on two new restaurants unless we are on the road. Since we went to an Art Show in Chicago over the weekend I can join that to a new Cincinnati experience, for us, and cover Two New.

"Ruth's Chris Steak House" 100 East Freedom Way ( the Banks) 45202  (937) 498-0043 has been open for several months but last week was the first time we have entered the place. Being in the Banks, a block from the baseball stadium, it is good to choose a time when sports are not competing. The best parking is either valet ($12) or in the underground garage( $5), which serves all the restaurants, in the area, plus Great American Ball Park. Following a call to the restaurant we followed their advice and self parked below. An elevator bring one to street level 20 ft from "Ruth's Chris" entrance.
The steak house is on a corner and dining is on two stories. The ambiance is very attractive, this is defiantly a "white table cloth" experience. We were seated upstairs, there is an elevator, and our server, who had worked at "Morton's" knew the menu and was pleased to assist us with detailed answers to our questions.
Marilyn and I had our usual drinks, very reasonably priced, and chose to split a Ruths Chop Salad, good but very small, and a Cowboy Ribeye Steak, 22 oz, bone in, which was plenty large enough although ours had a heavy percentage of fat, good for flavor but not consumption. I ordered a side of Brussels Sprouts, for the table, but was please that the other 3 only sampled as the helping was not huge.
The food was good, served as ordered and at the correct temperature, but since every thing is ala carte the bill can run up quite easily. Our server was most attentive during the meal but disappeared, to work on another tables bill, for a long time after we had been served and had eaten. For us it's hard to by-pass the "Precinct" which offers a full meal and is "just down the street".

The other new spot is in Evanston IL where we bunked with friends over the weekend. "Terra American Bistro" 2676 Green Bay Road, Evanston IL 60201 is also only a few months old. The menu is American eclectic, with some emphasis on Italian, and offers both "small plates" and "large". We took our hosts and had a very pleasant evening. The food was interesting, well prepared and promptly served. It was obvious that management has done a good job of training and the supervision is most evident. I am sure they get a minimum of 3 to 4 turnovers each evening, although no one is pushed to leave.
Marilyn started with a good sized " iceberg wedge" while I selected one of the special appetizers, two mushroom caps filled with chopped artichoke hearts and topped with lump crab meat( very good) My " large" was Meatloaf, rimed with bacon strips and topped with crisp onion straws. It lay on a bed of soft Polenta and had a ring of honey encasing the spread Polenta.
Marilyn, as is her habit, stuck with the Lake Superior White Fish. Our guests had Salad Greens, first, follow by Bouillabaisse, for the gentleman, and Spaghetti and meatballs, for the lady. Dessert was a wonderful Banana Brulee with Pralines and ice cream, hardly sweet, and a Dutch Chocolate Creme Pudding with fresh berries. All was most satisfying.