We left Cincinnati, Tuesday, Feb. 10, in our old green Honda CRV headed for Springfield, IL and Lincoln's 200th Birthday celebration. Six hours later we arrived and registered at the Hampton Inn, a block away from where President Obama spoke Thursday evening, where we meet the rest of our party. There were 10 of us, in all, the men had all gone to the University of Michigan and been in the same fraternity. That friendship has lasted 60 years and we all try to get together, with spouses, at least once a year. Geographically 4 of the couples are in the mid west while the other join us from California.
We had taken rooms including one suite, so that we had a meeting place throughout the day and evening.
The genesis of the idea came from an Elder hostel trip which perked our interest. We decided that we could do it on our own and divided the effort with one charting activities and the other handling logistics. I got the food, surprise.
After wine and "munchies" the first night, and all others, in our suite we went to "Indigo", 3013 Lindberg Blvd,-217-726-3487, a steak and seafood restaurant in the Southwest suburbs. The ambiance is a mix between a nice cocktail lounge and white table cloth restaurant. They had one long table for the 10, not the best arrangement, for conversation, and were served by a very attractive and competent server. I wish the kitchen service had been as competent. The food was good, but not outstanding. I had very good fried Oysters with a very interesting, spicy, non mayonnaise, remoulade sauce, a large Caesar salad and an appetizer portion of "jerk" rubbed, braised short ribs, enough to serve 3 people. I never saw such a large portion listed as an appetizer. I ate one and shared the others with the table. On the whole my meal was satisfactory, although the kitchen seems to function one order at a time, which slowed the whole process and the enjoyment.
The next morning, after Breakfast, always provided free at the "Hampton Inn", we took off for downtown Springfield. First stop, the Lincoln Library, which we found to be mostly research, over 12,000 books have been written about Lincoln.
Part of the group moved on the the Lincoln Museum, across the street while 3 of us went to an enactment of Lincolns life in Springfield thru his departure, as President, for Washington. The enactment was attended by more that 5000 school children and a fair number of adults.
We meet up with the rest of the group, had lunch in the museum cafeteria and spent the early part of the afternoon touring the museum. The displays are well done and quite a bit is interactive. A very good presentation and quite educational. It was then on to the Lincoln Tomb and a talk by a docent after a tour of the edifice.
That evening, after rest, our "get together" and much conversation it was on to"Maldaner's",222 South Sixth St.-217-522-4313. "Maldaner's" first opened in 1886 and reminded me of "The Tadish Grill", in San Fransisco or "Lockober's" in Boston, in the ambiance. Again we were seated at one long table, this time one side being a banquette under a mirror with gaslight fixtures, modernized. Being downtown, near the Capitol, it is a home for many politicians, lobbyist's and locals. After my Bombay, Marilyn and I split a salad which I followed with Calves Liver for my main course. The sauteed onions had been combined with some chopped bacon and served in a light sauce. I asked for pollenta instead of mashed potato's and the dish was appetizing if not memorable. For dessert I had a piece of dark chocolate and cranberry tort with whole, pitted, marinated dates on top, very interesting and delightful.
Thursday, Feb 12, the day, we visited and then left early for an 11:30 Lincoln Society lunch. Over 350 people showed to listen to Steven Burlingame who has just published a large, two volume, history of Lincoln. This time we had a round table which we all enjoyed, but not quite as much as the wonderful, entertaining talk by professor Burlingame. He is knowledgeable, speaks well, laces his talk with humor and historical information. A real treat.
After lunch our group split, with one couple returning to St. Louis and the others, 4 and 4 going in some what different directions. We went to the C Span mobile studio to learn about their coverage, then on to the old state house to buy Lincoln first day cover stamps and then for a tour of the Lincoln home and visitors center. Incidentally the Lincoln home is the only National Park in Illinois and is run by the US Park Service. The other group after buying stamps went to the Governor's Mansion for an open house and to meet the new Governor.
That evening, the 8 of us, followed our set routine and then went for dinner, this time with a round table, at "Sabastian's Hideout", 221 South Fifth St., a block away from the previous evening but miles away in decor.
After or typical chicken luncheon we all ate lightly. I chose a Perrine salad, baby greens, dried cranberries, raisins, pine nuts and Stilton followed by very good Tuna Tartare, served on as rice cake with all the appropriate condiments. Marilyn had a Caesar Salad and a stuffed Portabella Mushroom. The food was very good and it was a wonderful way to end a delightful time of being together.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Saturday, February 7, 2009
20 Brix
"It's a long long way to Tipperary", my age is showing, not quite so far to "20 Brix" 101 Main Street, Milford, Ohio 45150- 513-831-2749(Brix) and a lot more pleasant journey.
Last night, with an older couple, can you imagine, we made our first visit, it will not be our last. Most of the diners seem to be in their 30's and 40's so as you might imagine we raised the average age considerably, enough on age, which I must be feeling today.
"20 Brix", a wine term, has been in business a little over a year. It is located in a reconditioned building, which once housed a barber shop, and is attractive with 2/3 seating and the balance wine bar and wine sales area.
The service is attentive, from bussers thru owners and all are knowledgeable and helpful. They are proud of their establishment and want one to have a pleasant time. I had the feeling that if something was not right it would be made so promptly.
The wine list is extensive and divided by categories. There are many selections available by the glass and all by the bottle. Pour size comes as 2 oz or 5 oz and the latter is certainly a reasonable amt. Our table had 3 different wines, Marilyn doesn't drink. The other couple each had a glass of the same Willamette Valley Pinto while I started with a Barbarra, from the Piedmont region and then a Nibbollo( I'm sure it is misspelled) also Italian. The later is slightly higher in price and I found a slight bit lighter and smoother.
For dinner Marilyn and I chose to split a Cesar Salad, lightly dressed, which as a first course was sufficient. She followed with Walleye, a favorite, beautifully done and served on a bed of sliced vegetables. I got to taste and it was excellent. I ordered two "small plates" one of "crispy duck Brest" which was not "crispy" and slightly underdone, for my taste. The orange sauce was rich but again too salty to be totally satisfying. Her again it maybe that I try to eat as little sodium as possible. My other selection was a risotto ball with ground Italian sausage slightly baked and then popped in a deep fryer till golden brown. This went beautifully with the 2nd glass of wine. It it served, very cleverly, on a plate holding the 3 balls in separate compartments where they rest on a sweet red pepper coils with a dab of pesto on top of each ball. I only managed 2 and the other resides in our refrigerator. The meal ended with the 4 of us splitting an apple tart, with a very good light crust and chunks of fresh apples.
The total cost was approximately $50/person including tip and tax. Not cheap but reasonable for a fine evening with good food and an excellent selection of wine.
Last night, with an older couple, can you imagine, we made our first visit, it will not be our last. Most of the diners seem to be in their 30's and 40's so as you might imagine we raised the average age considerably, enough on age, which I must be feeling today.
"20 Brix", a wine term, has been in business a little over a year. It is located in a reconditioned building, which once housed a barber shop, and is attractive with 2/3 seating and the balance wine bar and wine sales area.
The service is attentive, from bussers thru owners and all are knowledgeable and helpful. They are proud of their establishment and want one to have a pleasant time. I had the feeling that if something was not right it would be made so promptly.
The wine list is extensive and divided by categories. There are many selections available by the glass and all by the bottle. Pour size comes as 2 oz or 5 oz and the latter is certainly a reasonable amt. Our table had 3 different wines, Marilyn doesn't drink. The other couple each had a glass of the same Willamette Valley Pinto while I started with a Barbarra, from the Piedmont region and then a Nibbollo( I'm sure it is misspelled) also Italian. The later is slightly higher in price and I found a slight bit lighter and smoother.
For dinner Marilyn and I chose to split a Cesar Salad, lightly dressed, which as a first course was sufficient. She followed with Walleye, a favorite, beautifully done and served on a bed of sliced vegetables. I got to taste and it was excellent. I ordered two "small plates" one of "crispy duck Brest" which was not "crispy" and slightly underdone, for my taste. The orange sauce was rich but again too salty to be totally satisfying. Her again it maybe that I try to eat as little sodium as possible. My other selection was a risotto ball with ground Italian sausage slightly baked and then popped in a deep fryer till golden brown. This went beautifully with the 2nd glass of wine. It it served, very cleverly, on a plate holding the 3 balls in separate compartments where they rest on a sweet red pepper coils with a dab of pesto on top of each ball. I only managed 2 and the other resides in our refrigerator. The meal ended with the 4 of us splitting an apple tart, with a very good light crust and chunks of fresh apples.
The total cost was approximately $50/person including tip and tax. Not cheap but reasonable for a fine evening with good food and an excellent selection of wine.
Monday, February 2, 2009
California Rt 128
If you have ever driven California Rt 128 from Hwy 101 to US 1 you have had a varied view of Northern California compressed in about 55 miles. There are foot hills of two coastal ranges, with hills, hairpin curves and beautiful valleys. Hills laiden with grape vines and the accompanying winery's, small rivers and streams, small to tiny towns, food of various ethnic origins(mostly Mexican) and several Redwood groves. I though of all this as we made our way from Santa Rosa to Mendocino.
Last week we were on a 6 day jaunt to visit our two California families, one in Mendocino/Ft. Bragg and the other in LA, but that another story.
Monday we had flown from Dayton, OH to San Francisco. We drove to Dayton, took a 30 minute, or less, flight and endured a 3 hr and 40 minute wait at the Cincinnati Airport to save about $500. You decide if it's worth it? We rented a car at SFO and proceeded to Rhonert Park, California, just south of Santa Rosa. We stayed at an excellent Hampton Inn and ate dinner around 9 P.M., local time, at a very good "Red Lobster". Both Marilyn and I were surprised at the ambiance, service and quality of the food. Of course, it's a chain but can easily hold it's own with "Bonefish" and others of that ilk. I had Salmon, done perfectly, while Marilyn had her usual Tilapia. My Salmon had an interesting fresh pineapple and sweet spicy sauce, served on the side. It was a good meal and a pleasant way to end an arduous trip.
Tuesday, after driving Rt 128, we met our son for lunch at the "Mendocino Cafe" 10451 Lansing St. Mendocino, CA. The cafe is "California Coast Down Home", at least in my lexicon. Walking in we had seen a plate of Caesar Salad, topped with a sizable crab cake. Raven, our son, and I decided to split that and a very unhealthy, wonderful grilled sausage with grilled red and yellow peppers and onions. That afternoon we were forced to sunbath and think of the snow and ice storm in the Midwest.
Dinner was at "Nit's Cafe", Main St. Ft Bragg CA . CASH ONLY. Nit is an Asian women who turns out exquisite cuisine from a closet sized kitchen, where she does everything. The cafe seats about 25. The meal was marvelous. I choose a seafood platter, sauteed, there is no deep frier. My plate came loaded with perfectly cooked and seasoned Petrolie Soul, Shrimp and Cali maria all on a bed of crisp oven baked "Yukon Gold" potato chunks. Along with this on the plate was a good sized mound of spicy Asian Slaw. What a meal in Ft. Bragg CA or anywhere.
Our Motel, in Ft. Bragg is located on a bluff overlooking Noyo Harbor. After shopping, the next morning at our daughter-in-law's upscale stationary and art store, "Racines" we rolled down the hill for lunch at "Charter and Moon" 32150 N. Harbor Drive, don't ask me what the name stand for? ""Charter & Moon" is a cleaned up waterfront shack where the husband runs the front of the house, as the host and also the single server, and his wife the kitchen, as the single cook. Don't let the place fool you, I had one of the finish salads, Waldorf with greens, pears instead of apples, candied pecans, white raisins and covered, several inches deep, with fresh Pacific Crab. Outstanding! Another interesting item is that this salad was served in a multi paneled, wooden salad bowel the size that we use to "toss" salad for 6 or 8 people. Don't panic, the portion did not fill the bowel. The chef had carved a large rose from Celeriac to decorate the whole thing.
After an afternoon spent with our Granddaughters, including a trip to the "Glass Beach" we decided to meet at their favorite Thai restaurant. We did at 6:15 and found that we were a day early as they are now only open on the weekend. Not daunted we took off for "V'Canto" 124 Laurel St, Ft Bragg CA 707-964-6844. This is a small town Italian Restaurant with full bar service. The food is good, all cooked to order by a Hispanic kitchen staff and served promptly. I shared a large salad and followed with a bowel of Fettuccine, Scampi and Pesto. "V'Canto" is not outstanding but certainly better than adequate. I had been spoiled by the days lunch and previous nights dinner. The wine list is all California but I choose the closest to Italian I could find. The server volunteered a taste, at least a third of a glass, and I followed with a whole. I was duty bound. The pours are large as are the servings and dinner ran about $25 each including tip and tax
The next morning the four adults, at least age wise, had brunch at the "Rt. 1 Cafe". It is in a "Travel Lodge", but don't be fooled, the food is all organic and cooked to order. I had wonderful "Heuavous Rancheros", fitting for a morning departure from the California North Coast.
Last week we were on a 6 day jaunt to visit our two California families, one in Mendocino/Ft. Bragg and the other in LA, but that another story.
Monday we had flown from Dayton, OH to San Francisco. We drove to Dayton, took a 30 minute, or less, flight and endured a 3 hr and 40 minute wait at the Cincinnati Airport to save about $500. You decide if it's worth it? We rented a car at SFO and proceeded to Rhonert Park, California, just south of Santa Rosa. We stayed at an excellent Hampton Inn and ate dinner around 9 P.M., local time, at a very good "Red Lobster". Both Marilyn and I were surprised at the ambiance, service and quality of the food. Of course, it's a chain but can easily hold it's own with "Bonefish" and others of that ilk. I had Salmon, done perfectly, while Marilyn had her usual Tilapia. My Salmon had an interesting fresh pineapple and sweet spicy sauce, served on the side. It was a good meal and a pleasant way to end an arduous trip.
Tuesday, after driving Rt 128, we met our son for lunch at the "Mendocino Cafe" 10451 Lansing St. Mendocino, CA. The cafe is "California Coast Down Home", at least in my lexicon. Walking in we had seen a plate of Caesar Salad, topped with a sizable crab cake. Raven, our son, and I decided to split that and a very unhealthy, wonderful grilled sausage with grilled red and yellow peppers and onions. That afternoon we were forced to sunbath and think of the snow and ice storm in the Midwest.
Dinner was at "Nit's Cafe", Main St. Ft Bragg CA . CASH ONLY. Nit is an Asian women who turns out exquisite cuisine from a closet sized kitchen, where she does everything. The cafe seats about 25. The meal was marvelous. I choose a seafood platter, sauteed, there is no deep frier. My plate came loaded with perfectly cooked and seasoned Petrolie Soul, Shrimp and Cali maria all on a bed of crisp oven baked "Yukon Gold" potato chunks. Along with this on the plate was a good sized mound of spicy Asian Slaw. What a meal in Ft. Bragg CA or anywhere.
Our Motel, in Ft. Bragg is located on a bluff overlooking Noyo Harbor. After shopping, the next morning at our daughter-in-law's upscale stationary and art store, "Racines" we rolled down the hill for lunch at "Charter and Moon" 32150 N. Harbor Drive, don't ask me what the name stand for? ""Charter & Moon" is a cleaned up waterfront shack where the husband runs the front of the house, as the host and also the single server, and his wife the kitchen, as the single cook. Don't let the place fool you, I had one of the finish salads, Waldorf with greens, pears instead of apples, candied pecans, white raisins and covered, several inches deep, with fresh Pacific Crab. Outstanding! Another interesting item is that this salad was served in a multi paneled, wooden salad bowel the size that we use to "toss" salad for 6 or 8 people. Don't panic, the portion did not fill the bowel. The chef had carved a large rose from Celeriac to decorate the whole thing.
After an afternoon spent with our Granddaughters, including a trip to the "Glass Beach" we decided to meet at their favorite Thai restaurant. We did at 6:15 and found that we were a day early as they are now only open on the weekend. Not daunted we took off for "V'Canto" 124 Laurel St, Ft Bragg CA 707-964-6844. This is a small town Italian Restaurant with full bar service. The food is good, all cooked to order by a Hispanic kitchen staff and served promptly. I shared a large salad and followed with a bowel of Fettuccine, Scampi and Pesto. "V'Canto" is not outstanding but certainly better than adequate. I had been spoiled by the days lunch and previous nights dinner. The wine list is all California but I choose the closest to Italian I could find. The server volunteered a taste, at least a third of a glass, and I followed with a whole. I was duty bound. The pours are large as are the servings and dinner ran about $25 each including tip and tax
The next morning the four adults, at least age wise, had brunch at the "Rt. 1 Cafe". It is in a "Travel Lodge", but don't be fooled, the food is all organic and cooked to order. I had wonderful "Heuavous Rancheros", fitting for a morning departure from the California North Coast.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Rue Dumaine
If you live in the northern part of the Cincinnati area, especially around I275 or above I suggest the next time you are looking for a good meal and relaxed surroundings that you head North to Dayton instead of Cincinnati. On the south side of Dayton approximately 30 minutes from I275 you'll find "Rue Dumaine" at 1061 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd 937-610-1061, a store front Bistro with a wonderful eclectic menu and even better preparati0n.
Marilyn and I were there Thursday night dining with a couple from the Dayton area. We arrived at 7 PM and found the restaurant without any trouble on the North side of State Route 725, headed East from I675. The place was only about 1/4 full and it deserves better. The chef, owner, moved from New Orleans, back to Dayton, and opened about 6 months ago. The food may have a slightly Southern twings but I hate to put it in any category, except satisfying.
There were 3 specials and Marilyn and I decided to split two, Ruby Trout Almondene and fresh Flounder. They both came sauteed with a side or two. The trout had a hugh portion of almond slivers, which we thought, at first, was a portion of wild rice, and well prepared green beans. The flounder is served on a bed of roasted Yukon gold potato's with a side of steamed spinach. I had read of their pasta with cheese which they gladly substituted for the roast potato's. The fish was beautifully done, the veggies green and tasty and the sauces served on the side were pleasant accompaniments.
Salads are large and we began our meal by splitting an excellent Belgium Endive, apple, pecan and blue cheese salad for our first course. I'm still working on my waistline, with slight success, so we had no alcholic beverages but Marilyn finished with her usual "decaf" Total coast, with generous tip was $35 each.
The other couple were not as reserved and had not only wine and desert One chose the lamb medallions and the other roast pork both of which looked inviting. From out house travel time in in the range of an hour, depending on traffic, but we will make the journey again.
Friday I had a new experience. I went to a naturalization ceremony for 32 new Americans. I am taking a course at OLLI, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Cincinnati. Continuing education for mature adults, at least in age. The course is on Immigration and the Moderator invited us to lunch and to view the ceremony. I'm glad I did both.
He suggested "Mecklenburg Gardens" 302 E. University Ave, Cincinnati 45219-513-221-5353. Meklenburg was founded in 1865 and has had several iterations since then. It has been in the same location since it's founding and still retains the outside beer garden covered with grape vines. When I was growing up it was a favorite of my parents even though it was rumored to be a meeting place for the German American Bund. The specialty,in those days, was "smearcase" a smooth wiped cottage cheese topped with fresh chives and accompanied with rye bread. Alas, those days are gone and for a period of time it was run by an "ashram" and other various groups. Now the Harten family has taken ownership and things, yesterday, at lunch were highly satisfactory. I had a "house smoked Salmon" salad and all though the Salmon was slightly salty the salad was very good with crisp romaine, excellent firm tomato's, tough to get this time of year, and crisp cucumber. The mixed balsamic dressing was just right and the lunch was good enough to encourage a return either for lunch or dinner.
Marilyn and I were there Thursday night dining with a couple from the Dayton area. We arrived at 7 PM and found the restaurant without any trouble on the North side of State Route 725, headed East from I675. The place was only about 1/4 full and it deserves better. The chef, owner, moved from New Orleans, back to Dayton, and opened about 6 months ago. The food may have a slightly Southern twings but I hate to put it in any category, except satisfying.
There were 3 specials and Marilyn and I decided to split two, Ruby Trout Almondene and fresh Flounder. They both came sauteed with a side or two. The trout had a hugh portion of almond slivers, which we thought, at first, was a portion of wild rice, and well prepared green beans. The flounder is served on a bed of roasted Yukon gold potato's with a side of steamed spinach. I had read of their pasta with cheese which they gladly substituted for the roast potato's. The fish was beautifully done, the veggies green and tasty and the sauces served on the side were pleasant accompaniments.
Salads are large and we began our meal by splitting an excellent Belgium Endive, apple, pecan and blue cheese salad for our first course. I'm still working on my waistline, with slight success, so we had no alcholic beverages but Marilyn finished with her usual "decaf" Total coast, with generous tip was $35 each.
The other couple were not as reserved and had not only wine and desert One chose the lamb medallions and the other roast pork both of which looked inviting. From out house travel time in in the range of an hour, depending on traffic, but we will make the journey again.
Friday I had a new experience. I went to a naturalization ceremony for 32 new Americans. I am taking a course at OLLI, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Cincinnati. Continuing education for mature adults, at least in age. The course is on Immigration and the Moderator invited us to lunch and to view the ceremony. I'm glad I did both.
He suggested "Mecklenburg Gardens" 302 E. University Ave, Cincinnati 45219-513-221-5353. Meklenburg was founded in 1865 and has had several iterations since then. It has been in the same location since it's founding and still retains the outside beer garden covered with grape vines. When I was growing up it was a favorite of my parents even though it was rumored to be a meeting place for the German American Bund. The specialty,in those days, was "smearcase" a smooth wiped cottage cheese topped with fresh chives and accompanied with rye bread. Alas, those days are gone and for a period of time it was run by an "ashram" and other various groups. Now the Harten family has taken ownership and things, yesterday, at lunch were highly satisfactory. I had a "house smoked Salmon" salad and all though the Salmon was slightly salty the salad was very good with crisp romaine, excellent firm tomato's, tough to get this time of year, and crisp cucumber. The mixed balsamic dressing was just right and the lunch was good enough to encourage a return either for lunch or dinner.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Three Nights Out
This week we ate out three nights in a row. Not really unusual but also not helpful with my New Years Resolution to loose weight. As anyone knows eating at home is a lot easier way to control calories.
Tuesday night after drinks and nibbles at our cousins, in Blue Ash, we moved on to the "Montgomery Inn" 9940 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati 45242-513-791-3482. "Montgomery Inn" is the most professional operation in our area, at all levels, and has been rated with "Jimmy's Harbor side" in Boston as tops in that category as well as number of meals served.
Some people describe the operation as "a factory" but I believe that has negative connotations.
The food, service, kitchen etc. are all set and better than lots of places that don't have their acts together. When you order, here, you know what you will get, although the servers try to understand your desires and comply. If their items appeal to you there is very little chance that you will be disappointed.
I thought I could control myself by just ordering the full Iceberg wedge with Roquefort dressing and a baked sweet potato. Little did I expect the dressing to be loaded with cream, mayonnaise and bacon bits as well as plenty of cheese, the dressing alone must have been 500 calories, unfortunately it was delicious. The baked sweet potato came not only with a whipped butter but one that included maple syrup and nuts, again a difficult thing to pass for a foodie. Not only did I eat mine but I had some of my cousins chopped steak, very good, the same as Marilyn choose and more that one or two of her Saratoga Chips. All these plus a good bite of onion straws left dieting for another day. All the food was tastey and served as ordered.
Wednesday night was a wonderful surprise. Before the "Smart Talk" lecture the two of us went with two other women to "The Newport Syndicate", 18 E 5th St. Newport KY 41071-859-491-8000. The Syndicate has a long history dating back to the 1930's when gambling was allowed and it has seen life as a casino, a bowling ally, a Jeff Ruby inspired banquet hall and currently as a restaurant and cocktail lounge. The decor is "art deco" and the place is bright and inviting.
I am a member of an Italian Fraternal group and have been with one of the new owners, also a member and Italian, at the "Federal Reserve" bar, downtown, "The Reserve" at Newport on the Levee and now the "Syndicate". This seems the best and the certainly the most fun.
Price points are unbelievable with my Shrimp and Angle Hair plus a good sized salad $14.95. Marilyn had Angle Hair with meat sauce(Bolognese) and salad, again $14.95. One of the ladies had the Chicken Pesto Flat Bread, quite enough for a meal, for $9.95.
Monday's they run a Prime Roast Beef special for $14.95, unbelievable.
Run, don't walk to "The Newport Syndicate" before my friend Mike, one of the owners, wakes up. You'll be glad you did.
Thursday night it was back to "The Rookwood" 1077 Celestial St -513-421-5555. Last time I was there I had one of the loaded hamburgers but this time, trying to make up for Tuesday, I stuck with the grilled chicken breast, it comes with a Cajun rub which adds a spicy flavor and keeps the breast juicy. I passed on the Swiss, which is included and the kettle chips and asked instead for some extra Cole slaw. I did not resist a draft Christian Moreline which was a fine compliment. Our server, Michelle, was pleasant, outgoing, attractive and efficient, what more can an old man ask.
The one disturbing happening was the rib eye steak which one of the other couple ordered. It came with so much fat and gristle that it had to be returned. The Manager, Luke, handled the situation promptly and pleasantly and all left satisfied.
"TheRookwood" is not impressive, but then it doesn't try to be. It's food and service are good and it is a fine drop in place with a limited but well though out menu.
Tuesday night after drinks and nibbles at our cousins, in Blue Ash, we moved on to the "Montgomery Inn" 9940 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati 45242-513-791-3482. "Montgomery Inn" is the most professional operation in our area, at all levels, and has been rated with "Jimmy's Harbor side" in Boston as tops in that category as well as number of meals served.
Some people describe the operation as "a factory" but I believe that has negative connotations.
The food, service, kitchen etc. are all set and better than lots of places that don't have their acts together. When you order, here, you know what you will get, although the servers try to understand your desires and comply. If their items appeal to you there is very little chance that you will be disappointed.
I thought I could control myself by just ordering the full Iceberg wedge with Roquefort dressing and a baked sweet potato. Little did I expect the dressing to be loaded with cream, mayonnaise and bacon bits as well as plenty of cheese, the dressing alone must have been 500 calories, unfortunately it was delicious. The baked sweet potato came not only with a whipped butter but one that included maple syrup and nuts, again a difficult thing to pass for a foodie. Not only did I eat mine but I had some of my cousins chopped steak, very good, the same as Marilyn choose and more that one or two of her Saratoga Chips. All these plus a good bite of onion straws left dieting for another day. All the food was tastey and served as ordered.
Wednesday night was a wonderful surprise. Before the "Smart Talk" lecture the two of us went with two other women to "The Newport Syndicate", 18 E 5th St. Newport KY 41071-859-491-8000. The Syndicate has a long history dating back to the 1930's when gambling was allowed and it has seen life as a casino, a bowling ally, a Jeff Ruby inspired banquet hall and currently as a restaurant and cocktail lounge. The decor is "art deco" and the place is bright and inviting.
I am a member of an Italian Fraternal group and have been with one of the new owners, also a member and Italian, at the "Federal Reserve" bar, downtown, "The Reserve" at Newport on the Levee and now the "Syndicate". This seems the best and the certainly the most fun.
Price points are unbelievable with my Shrimp and Angle Hair plus a good sized salad $14.95. Marilyn had Angle Hair with meat sauce(Bolognese) and salad, again $14.95. One of the ladies had the Chicken Pesto Flat Bread, quite enough for a meal, for $9.95.
Monday's they run a Prime Roast Beef special for $14.95, unbelievable.
Run, don't walk to "The Newport Syndicate" before my friend Mike, one of the owners, wakes up. You'll be glad you did.
Thursday night it was back to "The Rookwood" 1077 Celestial St -513-421-5555. Last time I was there I had one of the loaded hamburgers but this time, trying to make up for Tuesday, I stuck with the grilled chicken breast, it comes with a Cajun rub which adds a spicy flavor and keeps the breast juicy. I passed on the Swiss, which is included and the kettle chips and asked instead for some extra Cole slaw. I did not resist a draft Christian Moreline which was a fine compliment. Our server, Michelle, was pleasant, outgoing, attractive and efficient, what more can an old man ask.
The one disturbing happening was the rib eye steak which one of the other couple ordered. It came with so much fat and gristle that it had to be returned. The Manager, Luke, handled the situation promptly and pleasantly and all left satisfied.
"TheRookwood" is not impressive, but then it doesn't try to be. It's food and service are good and it is a fine drop in place with a limited but well though out menu.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Edgecliff Bistro, and others
The is a difficult post to enter. I am somewhat conflicted and yet the guiding principle of all my entrees is the truth, as I perceive it. I love the Restaurant business and understand some of it's difficulties on the other hand open reporting has to be the only guiding principle. That said, here goes.
Last night 7 of us went to "The Edgecliff Bistro" in the older Edgecliff tower at Victory Parkway and Eden Park. The Restaurant opened in Sept. and they are still getting their act together. The food was very good, with all dishes well prepared, as ordered. The service, both in the front of the house and the kitchen show a real need for addition training and supervision. "The Edgecliff" is part of the Jean-Ro organization but I believed it is solely owned by the Wades. I am not going to dwell, this time, on the deficiencies but they were obvious, to anyone, and sufficient to down grade what should have been a very pleasant evening. From lack of table supervision to kitchen errors they were numerous both in service and food temperature and timing.
I had an excellent piece of Salmon, cooked medium rare, with grilled tomato's' and a green salad. Others had trout with potato's and Green beans, Lamb burgers, Chicken in a cream sauce and Onion soup. The table ordered "beer battered onion rings, which everyone praised and Fried Calamari, not as successful. We had coupon's for dessert and I tasked the "Tarte Tartan" which again was very good.
There is inside parking and the place is handicapped accessible
I had a long talk with the Manager and he is aware of the problems. He also gave us a small Gift Certificate to be used for a future meal.
We will return, if only to give them a second chance and enjoy some very good food.
My granddaughters wanted to have lunch at "Jean-Roberts Greenup Cafe", 308 Greenup St.,Covington KY 859-261-3663. Only the downstairs dinning room was open and it is small and very noisy. Either the kitchen was understaffed or swamped by the Friday crowd. The menu is interesting an is reminiscent of a "ladies tea parlor" of my youth. although the place is well populated by males.
I chose vegetarian Chili and a green salad. It's a new year and I am working on my "Buddha Belly".
Marilyn had excellent chicken salad, of which I had a small taste while one Granddaughter had tuna salad and the other a croissant with avocado and brie. The food was fresh and quite acceptable.
Off to "Cumin" 3520 Erie Ave. Cincinnati 513-871-8714, to meet a younger couple. That night I had my usual Bombay plus a green salad and Aloo Gobi, crisp Cauliflower in a spicy sauce. The dish included rice which I finessed. Marilyn had their excellent Lamb Shank and we shared an order of Peshawri Naan, my favorite. The naan is stuffed with golden raisins and pistachio nuts, how can it be bad. It's another restaurant that treats everyone as honored guests and Mung, their head server is bright, sparkling, efficient and always upbeat. One of our regular haunts.
"Mitchell's Fish Market" Newport of the Levee, Newport, KY 859-291-7454. Again we meet a couple, this time our age. After a drink, Marilyn and I split a "Titanic Iceberg Wedge", lettuce with 1000 Island dressing and tomato' and chopped eggs. I choose Shrimp and Scallops American. A good choice, recommended by the server with a tangy sauce and firm seafood. Marilyn had her somewhat usually Tilapia which she reported to be very nicely done. It's a go9d chain for both basic and interesting seafood and often no crowded.
That's been the week and now for a couple of nights a home with lettuce and lemon juice (ha).
Last night 7 of us went to "The Edgecliff Bistro" in the older Edgecliff tower at Victory Parkway and Eden Park. The Restaurant opened in Sept. and they are still getting their act together. The food was very good, with all dishes well prepared, as ordered. The service, both in the front of the house and the kitchen show a real need for addition training and supervision. "The Edgecliff" is part of the Jean-Ro organization but I believed it is solely owned by the Wades. I am not going to dwell, this time, on the deficiencies but they were obvious, to anyone, and sufficient to down grade what should have been a very pleasant evening. From lack of table supervision to kitchen errors they were numerous both in service and food temperature and timing.
I had an excellent piece of Salmon, cooked medium rare, with grilled tomato's' and a green salad. Others had trout with potato's and Green beans, Lamb burgers, Chicken in a cream sauce and Onion soup. The table ordered "beer battered onion rings, which everyone praised and Fried Calamari, not as successful. We had coupon's for dessert and I tasked the "Tarte Tartan" which again was very good.
There is inside parking and the place is handicapped accessible
I had a long talk with the Manager and he is aware of the problems. He also gave us a small Gift Certificate to be used for a future meal.
We will return, if only to give them a second chance and enjoy some very good food.
My granddaughters wanted to have lunch at "Jean-Roberts Greenup Cafe", 308 Greenup St.,Covington KY 859-261-3663. Only the downstairs dinning room was open and it is small and very noisy. Either the kitchen was understaffed or swamped by the Friday crowd. The menu is interesting an is reminiscent of a "ladies tea parlor" of my youth. although the place is well populated by males.
I chose vegetarian Chili and a green salad. It's a new year and I am working on my "Buddha Belly".
Marilyn had excellent chicken salad, of which I had a small taste while one Granddaughter had tuna salad and the other a croissant with avocado and brie. The food was fresh and quite acceptable.
Off to "Cumin" 3520 Erie Ave. Cincinnati 513-871-8714, to meet a younger couple. That night I had my usual Bombay plus a green salad and Aloo Gobi, crisp Cauliflower in a spicy sauce. The dish included rice which I finessed. Marilyn had their excellent Lamb Shank and we shared an order of Peshawri Naan, my favorite. The naan is stuffed with golden raisins and pistachio nuts, how can it be bad. It's another restaurant that treats everyone as honored guests and Mung, their head server is bright, sparkling, efficient and always upbeat. One of our regular haunts.
"Mitchell's Fish Market" Newport of the Levee, Newport, KY 859-291-7454. Again we meet a couple, this time our age. After a drink, Marilyn and I split a "Titanic Iceberg Wedge", lettuce with 1000 Island dressing and tomato' and chopped eggs. I choose Shrimp and Scallops American. A good choice, recommended by the server with a tangy sauce and firm seafood. Marilyn had her somewhat usually Tilapia which she reported to be very nicely done. It's a go9d chain for both basic and interesting seafood and often no crowded.
That's been the week and now for a couple of nights a home with lettuce and lemon juice (ha).
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Chung Ching
Last night 16 of us went for a 42nd Birthday party. Part of the group wanted to make sure that I made a post of the evening, even though I have written about this two or three person operation previously.
"Chung Ching", 5842 Hamilton Ave. Cincinnati-513-541-1243, is a store front restaurant run by a wife, Joyce, and her husband, an unseen entity, but a very good cook. If there is anyone else they are also hidden in the kitchen, as Joyce is the whole front of the house staff. Don't go for ambiance, decore or a full bar but do go for good basic Chinese food served hot and as ordered. It also wont break the bank.
Our party, which took up the whole front of the restaurant, had copious quantities of food and drink( beer and wine) and left after almost three hours in "high spirits", no pun. The total cost including tax and tip just under $19 per person.
To relate the dishes, we consumed, gives you some idea of the cooks flexibility.
We started with and egg role each. Their egg rolls are large, hot and vegetarian. We had two orders of diced chicken and peanuts each with a different level of spice. Two orders, of Sesame Chicken, terrible for you, but sweetly delicious and one order of Sweet and Sour Chicken of which I did not partake. The beef dishes were sliced tender meat, one dish with fresh pea pods (young and crispy) and one with scallions. For seafood we ordered shrimp with cashew nuts, this also contained pea pods and water chestnuts. Our pork was strips of Bar-B-Que meat with fresh crispy bean sprouts, again two orders as ere the shrimp. To behave we had 2 orders of Szechuan Green beans and several bowls of steaming rice. A Chinese table further back had crispy duck, fixed several ways, which I'll try the next time.
Also we returned a week or so ago to Primavista, our favorite "Italian", located high atop Price Hill. Especially noteworthy, that evening, was the Ossobuco. Unfortunately the scampi in Sherry sauce was not up to the usual standard, which just proves they are human also. I mention the fact that I had been slightly disappointed in my dinner and was assured that they would take the proper steps. A sign of a well run establishment where the owners take a personal interest.
Last Monday night we went with another couple to "Wild Ginger", 3655 Edwards Road, Cincinnati-513-533-9500. They have expanded but their food remains first rate. They have Shiner Bock Beer, which I personally enjoy. The service is always attentive and food comes with some detail to presentation.
Marilyn and I split and order(6) of chicken pot sticker, with a nice dipping sauce. I had an "ocean king" role which included soft shell crab, scallops, eel and shrimp. A seafood dinner wrapped in rice. Marilyn had the Walleye with 3 spices, which she has enjoyed many times, it comes with wilted spinach, on top, and crisp broccoli riming the plate. Total cost approximately $25. each.
"Chung Ching", 5842 Hamilton Ave. Cincinnati-513-541-1243, is a store front restaurant run by a wife, Joyce, and her husband, an unseen entity, but a very good cook. If there is anyone else they are also hidden in the kitchen, as Joyce is the whole front of the house staff. Don't go for ambiance, decore or a full bar but do go for good basic Chinese food served hot and as ordered. It also wont break the bank.
Our party, which took up the whole front of the restaurant, had copious quantities of food and drink( beer and wine) and left after almost three hours in "high spirits", no pun. The total cost including tax and tip just under $19 per person.
To relate the dishes, we consumed, gives you some idea of the cooks flexibility.
We started with and egg role each. Their egg rolls are large, hot and vegetarian. We had two orders of diced chicken and peanuts each with a different level of spice. Two orders, of Sesame Chicken, terrible for you, but sweetly delicious and one order of Sweet and Sour Chicken of which I did not partake. The beef dishes were sliced tender meat, one dish with fresh pea pods (young and crispy) and one with scallions. For seafood we ordered shrimp with cashew nuts, this also contained pea pods and water chestnuts. Our pork was strips of Bar-B-Que meat with fresh crispy bean sprouts, again two orders as ere the shrimp. To behave we had 2 orders of Szechuan Green beans and several bowls of steaming rice. A Chinese table further back had crispy duck, fixed several ways, which I'll try the next time.
Also we returned a week or so ago to Primavista, our favorite "Italian", located high atop Price Hill. Especially noteworthy, that evening, was the Ossobuco. Unfortunately the scampi in Sherry sauce was not up to the usual standard, which just proves they are human also. I mention the fact that I had been slightly disappointed in my dinner and was assured that they would take the proper steps. A sign of a well run establishment where the owners take a personal interest.
Last Monday night we went with another couple to "Wild Ginger", 3655 Edwards Road, Cincinnati-513-533-9500. They have expanded but their food remains first rate. They have Shiner Bock Beer, which I personally enjoy. The service is always attentive and food comes with some detail to presentation.
Marilyn and I split and order(6) of chicken pot sticker, with a nice dipping sauce. I had an "ocean king" role which included soft shell crab, scallops, eel and shrimp. A seafood dinner wrapped in rice. Marilyn had the Walleye with 3 spices, which she has enjoyed many times, it comes with wilted spinach, on top, and crisp broccoli riming the plate. Total cost approximately $25. each.
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