If you are a Cincinnati sports fan, and I can not be put in that category, this has been a tough weekend. The Reds who gave us 6 months of pleasure tangled with some of the best pitching in the major leagues and the Bengals began showing the results of intransigence ownership who, in my opinion, will never be responsible for a professional winning organization.
All of that said I once again saw what a difficult business the restaurant business is and how inside and outside forces make demands that only well trained professionals, at all levels, can overcome. As I tell people who have attended my OLLI course at UC " if you are thinking of going into the restaurant business go buy a parking lot".
Friday night we met another couple at "The Quarter( Bistro)" 6904 Wooster Pike Mariemont, OH 45227 (513-271-5400). The food, once again was very good to excellent. The service "ordinary", but I'll get to that in a moment. After my usual Bombay, a nice pour, I followed with the evenings special, Tobia( a firm, flaky, white fish) grilled perfectly and served on Risotto, beautifully done, with asparagus, caramelized onions and chopped mushrooms. The plate was decorated with a lime, citrus sauce which added just the right touch to the two main items. I like my food exceedingly hot( temperature) and so I ask that some additional heat be applied, which was done promptly.
Marilyn had French onion soup, well crusted, and a Mushroom Pizza, at least we thought it was listed that way, which was good but did not seem to have the mushrooms in attendance. Possibly we had read the menu incorrectly.
As mentioned the service was "ordinary". Friday night was the second "playoff game" for the Reds and so there was an extra large crowd and numerous distractions, both for customers and help. It was also the second day of a new menu and a shortage in the serving staff. I titled this "tough business". Although the General Manager worked diligently along with the staff it could not compensate for all the things effecting the tempo and details.
I spoke to the GM the next day( he returned my call very promptly) and he graciously thanked me for my interest and for pointing out many of the specifics. I am sure he covered them with his staff later in the day.
As I noted the food was great and everyone, or place, has a "bad hair day".
Monday, October 11, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
La Poste
Last night, Tuesday, five of us went to "La Poste" 3410 Telford St. Cincinnati, OH 45220 (513-281-3663). The location was the former home of "Tink's" and is well located near the Esquire Theatre and "Graeter's"." La Poste" had opened for business the previous night. The dining room, and adjoining wine room, have been lightened and minimally decorated with several paintings and prints. Tables are nicely spaced and all have white linen, and last night yellow, fresh flowers. David Taylor is the Executive Chef and he and several others of the service and kitchen staff were previously at "Honey" in Northside.
After my signature Bombay, the cocktail onions had not yet arrived, I shared, with the others, a helping of ricotta fritters. The fritters were the consistency of a "doughnut holes" but slightly larger. They were excellent, just the right amount of ricotta had been worked into the dough to have a nice flavor but not be overwhelming. A "Smoked Lemon Caesar Salad" was next and was also large enough for several of us to share. The greens and other ingredients were well chopped, except the anchovy fillets, and the flavor again was more than satisfactory.
Marilyn and I divided a brazed lamb shank served with French fried potato's and a rich, but not too thick, gravy. Some of the potato's soaked up some of the juice and the others remained crisp. Lastly I ordered, for the table, sour cherry Bread pudding. Two good sized slices, probably from a baked loaf with a crusty outside and a firm overall consistency. The sauce was a syrup mixture of sugar, cherry juice, possibly some alcoholic beverage and lots of poached sour cherries. A fitting finish for an excellent meal.
Prices seemed reasonable and although we were guests I would imagine a dinner with drinks would run in the $40 range. Service and hospitality were evident throughout the evening.
Monday night we went to "Allyn's" an Eastside fixture. Located at 3538 Colombia Parkway, in Columbia Tusculum 45226 (513-871-5779) it has been in operation, I believe over 20 years. We were drawn by the Monday music provided by the "Faux Frenchmen" a string jazz ensemble, playing our kind of music.
Over the years "Allyn's" has upgraded their mostly Tex-Mex and beer menu to now include various dishes and a wide selection of wines. I had Red Snapper picatta( sauce on the side) with a nicely baked potato and a side salad. Marilyn chose the Tillapia and also the potato and salad, both items were $14.95. The food was decent and the entertainment fun and exciting.
Sunday night "Cafe Mediterranean" 7454 Beechmont Ave. (513-232-2400) beckoned to us after drinks and conversation at home with our dinner companions. "Cafe Mediterranean" is our favorite Turkish dining place in the area. We all divided Lahmacum, a three level Turkish pizza, with very thin dough covered with ground, seasoned lamb placed on a very light tomato sauce. It is served with fresh lemon, chopped onions, romaine and thinly sliced tomato's which are eaten on the pizza wedges. Marilyn and I split an order of marinated, grilled chicken thighs, beautifully done and flavorful, accompanied with fresh steamed vegetables. I sampled a dark Turkish beer (Efes) which I found fit perfectly. Total for our share before tip was $32.50.
After my signature Bombay, the cocktail onions had not yet arrived, I shared, with the others, a helping of ricotta fritters. The fritters were the consistency of a "doughnut holes" but slightly larger. They were excellent, just the right amount of ricotta had been worked into the dough to have a nice flavor but not be overwhelming. A "Smoked Lemon Caesar Salad" was next and was also large enough for several of us to share. The greens and other ingredients were well chopped, except the anchovy fillets, and the flavor again was more than satisfactory.
Marilyn and I divided a brazed lamb shank served with French fried potato's and a rich, but not too thick, gravy. Some of the potato's soaked up some of the juice and the others remained crisp. Lastly I ordered, for the table, sour cherry Bread pudding. Two good sized slices, probably from a baked loaf with a crusty outside and a firm overall consistency. The sauce was a syrup mixture of sugar, cherry juice, possibly some alcoholic beverage and lots of poached sour cherries. A fitting finish for an excellent meal.
Prices seemed reasonable and although we were guests I would imagine a dinner with drinks would run in the $40 range. Service and hospitality were evident throughout the evening.
Monday night we went to "Allyn's" an Eastside fixture. Located at 3538 Colombia Parkway, in Columbia Tusculum 45226 (513-871-5779) it has been in operation, I believe over 20 years. We were drawn by the Monday music provided by the "Faux Frenchmen" a string jazz ensemble, playing our kind of music.
Over the years "Allyn's" has upgraded their mostly Tex-Mex and beer menu to now include various dishes and a wide selection of wines. I had Red Snapper picatta( sauce on the side) with a nicely baked potato and a side salad. Marilyn chose the Tillapia and also the potato and salad, both items were $14.95. The food was decent and the entertainment fun and exciting.
Sunday night "Cafe Mediterranean" 7454 Beechmont Ave. (513-232-2400) beckoned to us after drinks and conversation at home with our dinner companions. "Cafe Mediterranean" is our favorite Turkish dining place in the area. We all divided Lahmacum, a three level Turkish pizza, with very thin dough covered with ground, seasoned lamb placed on a very light tomato sauce. It is served with fresh lemon, chopped onions, romaine and thinly sliced tomato's which are eaten on the pizza wedges. Marilyn and I split an order of marinated, grilled chicken thighs, beautifully done and flavorful, accompanied with fresh steamed vegetables. I sampled a dark Turkish beer (Efes) which I found fit perfectly. Total for our share before tip was $32.50.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
A Dream-realized, partially
For years it has been my dream to open and run a first class, Jewish Deli in Cincinnati. There have always been a few things that have stood in the way; MONEY, actual restaurant experience and partners who were as enthusiastically as I and more knowledgeable. Now my dream has been partially answered.
"Rascals (NY) Deli", Blue Ash Ohio, (513) 429-4567 opened about a month ago in a strip center at the corner of Kenwood Rd and Cooper Rd in Blue Ash, behind the US Bank building. We went Thursday for lunch, along with another couple, and tried an array of their items. Some were "tastes" or "samples" and others were regularly sized portions. I asked for and received, willingly, a taste of both the chopped liver and the Sable. The first I found only fair, to my taste, and the second was fine, standard, cured Sable. Incidentally the servers and managers( probably partners) did everything possible to be accommodating.
I ordered "soup and half sandwich". My soap was the sweet and sour cabbage, a favorite of mine, which I found to heavy for my taste with too much beef, other delis versions run from no noticeable beef to very light, and two thick a sweet base. It came only warm (temperature) but was soon corrected to nice and hot. Along with this I had a half of a pickled tongue on dark rye which was exactly as advertised. The tongue had good flavor and the rye, while too thick for my preference, was hard crusted and with good rye flavor. The table ordered the two kinds of cucumber salads and we were very please with the standard vinegar one but not happy with the Israeli seasoned version which had a fermented taste.
Marilyn had beef barley soup and a half corned beef on light rye which she reported to be just fine, on both. The others had Matzo Ball and noodle soup and one tongue and one Pastrami.
The restaurant is fair sized and I would guess seats around 50. We arrived at 11:30 AM and were seated immediately but before noon there was a line waiting for seating. All items can be "carried out".
The menu is extensive and runs from breakfast items to dinner plates. Prices for these not too usual Cincinnati items seem to be in line with costs in other locals. The "soup and sandwich" was 7.95 and also included one potato pancake, a small cup of apple sauce and a generous slice of dill pickle.
I wish them luck and will return to try the Sable in some form, sandwich, plate or omelet, and possibly some of the other fish or deli items.
Also we split our time this week from eating in and going out, hitting "Pelican's Reef", "Suzy Wong's" and the "National Exemplar' in Mariemont. The first two are regulars but the last has been absent from our dinning scene for several years.
"The National Exemplar Restaurant" in Mariemont, OH is on the village square in the "Best Western Hotel". It is large, quiet and frequented by many of the "older" set, of which we are prime examples. Nice place to go for relaxed dining and a menu that rarely changes. They have a full bar and serve a decent sized drink. Starting with my Bombay I followed with the excellent rich Hungarian Mushroom Soup. For a main course I chose calf's liver, medium( which was slightly too done) that is accompanied by creamy mashed potato's and in my case fresh spinach. The calf's liver was both tasty and tender.Others had prime rib, salmon and halibut. All the food was well prepared and nicely presented We should venture there a little more often.
"Rascals (NY) Deli", Blue Ash Ohio, (513) 429-4567 opened about a month ago in a strip center at the corner of Kenwood Rd and Cooper Rd in Blue Ash, behind the US Bank building. We went Thursday for lunch, along with another couple, and tried an array of their items. Some were "tastes" or "samples" and others were regularly sized portions. I asked for and received, willingly, a taste of both the chopped liver and the Sable. The first I found only fair, to my taste, and the second was fine, standard, cured Sable. Incidentally the servers and managers( probably partners) did everything possible to be accommodating.
I ordered "soup and half sandwich". My soap was the sweet and sour cabbage, a favorite of mine, which I found to heavy for my taste with too much beef, other delis versions run from no noticeable beef to very light, and two thick a sweet base. It came only warm (temperature) but was soon corrected to nice and hot. Along with this I had a half of a pickled tongue on dark rye which was exactly as advertised. The tongue had good flavor and the rye, while too thick for my preference, was hard crusted and with good rye flavor. The table ordered the two kinds of cucumber salads and we were very please with the standard vinegar one but not happy with the Israeli seasoned version which had a fermented taste.
Marilyn had beef barley soup and a half corned beef on light rye which she reported to be just fine, on both. The others had Matzo Ball and noodle soup and one tongue and one Pastrami.
The restaurant is fair sized and I would guess seats around 50. We arrived at 11:30 AM and were seated immediately but before noon there was a line waiting for seating. All items can be "carried out".
The menu is extensive and runs from breakfast items to dinner plates. Prices for these not too usual Cincinnati items seem to be in line with costs in other locals. The "soup and sandwich" was 7.95 and also included one potato pancake, a small cup of apple sauce and a generous slice of dill pickle.
I wish them luck and will return to try the Sable in some form, sandwich, plate or omelet, and possibly some of the other fish or deli items.
Also we split our time this week from eating in and going out, hitting "Pelican's Reef", "Suzy Wong's" and the "National Exemplar' in Mariemont. The first two are regulars but the last has been absent from our dinning scene for several years.
"The National Exemplar Restaurant" in Mariemont, OH is on the village square in the "Best Western Hotel". It is large, quiet and frequented by many of the "older" set, of which we are prime examples. Nice place to go for relaxed dining and a menu that rarely changes. They have a full bar and serve a decent sized drink. Starting with my Bombay I followed with the excellent rich Hungarian Mushroom Soup. For a main course I chose calf's liver, medium( which was slightly too done) that is accompanied by creamy mashed potato's and in my case fresh spinach. The calf's liver was both tasty and tender.Others had prime rib, salmon and halibut. All the food was well prepared and nicely presented We should venture there a little more often.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Ann Arbor
We spent this past weekend in Ann Arbor MI with approximately 70 others who had either gone to the U of M or had married one of the guys that had attended. It was a reunion for some of the fraternity "brothers" who had graduated in the classes of 1950's.
Several of our meals were eaten at local restaurants as the group only has a set dinner, Saturday night and a group "brunch" Sunday morning.
Some of our closest, long time friends, joined Marilyn and me Friday night at "Zingerman's Road House" 2501 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor MI (743-663-3663), the were 10 in all. The "Roadhouse" really has the appearance of what the name implies. It is right off Jackson Road and is large, several rooms, with a full bar, booths and tables configured to seat 2 to 20. The menu may have been one of the most diverse I have seen lately and all were struck by the variety of items. There were 9 fresh fish offerings alone. Various items ranged from Burgers and Bar-B-Q to Steak and fresh iced oysters.
After a good sized Bombay I followed with a plate of Fried Green Tomatoes( not as good as "Otto's", my standard), fried with a corn meal crust and doused with ranch dressing and hot sauce. I shared the plate, 7 slices. with half the table. For my main course I chose Sardines grilled over hardwood. I had tried to find then in Portugal, several years ago, but they were not "in season", the server, who was excellent, warned me that they came with "bone in" and heads on, which they did. I was not dissuaded. I combined the fish with sauteed fresh spinach and mill ground grits. I think I'll stick with Sardines from a can as they are a lot easier and not much different in taste. Marilyn had a delicious Lamb Burgoo with onion, carrot. celery, corn and wonderful halved small new potatoes all cooked together. I had several good sized tastes and the lamb was tender and flavorful while the potatoes, which had soaked up a good amount of juice and flavor still staying firm, OUTSTANDING. Just to prove that I am a "bottomless pit" I ordered the Michigan Cherry pie ala mode, again shared, a disappointment in size, flavor and cost.
Other had items ranging from oysters to fried chicken and all seemed pleased.
The next day for lunch 5 of us went to "Zingerman's Deli" the original base of the Zingerman food empire, in Ann Arbor. The deli is located downtown adjacent to the Farmers Market and is an impressive operation that has been in business for over 30 years. Many young people have worked their way thru "Michigan" working at Zingerman's. For lunch I had a Sable, scallion cream cheese and fresh tomato sandwich on pumpernickel. My "side" was a very rich Swiss cheese potato salad with fresh bacon bits and a creamy Dijon mustard mayonnaise dressing. Marilyn went for Matzo ball soup and a corned beef sandwich on light rye, real deli food.
Believe it or not I did not gain weight, which I attribute mostly to a faulty scale, or metabolism.
Before we took this weekend trip we had had dinner during the week at "Suzie Wong's" 1544 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45206 (513)751-3333, our second visit. At that point they did not have a liquor licence but I believe it arrived that very evening. The table split a "Laub Gai", ground beef and lamb in a slightly spiced sauce and served with lettuce leaves into which it is rolled, an Asian wrap. I had the Bi Bim Bap a Korean stone bowl with rice covered by marinated grilled beef, sauteed spinach, kimche and bean sprouts, all topped with a fried egg and infused with a lightly seasoned sauce. Marilyn had "Chicken Chow Mein" while the others chose shrimp "Pad Thai" and "Mandarin Orange Beef". I find "Suzie Wong's" very good and very reasonable, a good addition to the East Walnut Hills-Hyde Park Asian scene.
Several of our meals were eaten at local restaurants as the group only has a set dinner, Saturday night and a group "brunch" Sunday morning.
Some of our closest, long time friends, joined Marilyn and me Friday night at "Zingerman's Road House" 2501 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor MI (743-663-3663), the were 10 in all. The "Roadhouse" really has the appearance of what the name implies. It is right off Jackson Road and is large, several rooms, with a full bar, booths and tables configured to seat 2 to 20. The menu may have been one of the most diverse I have seen lately and all were struck by the variety of items. There were 9 fresh fish offerings alone. Various items ranged from Burgers and Bar-B-Q to Steak and fresh iced oysters.
After a good sized Bombay I followed with a plate of Fried Green Tomatoes( not as good as "Otto's", my standard), fried with a corn meal crust and doused with ranch dressing and hot sauce. I shared the plate, 7 slices. with half the table. For my main course I chose Sardines grilled over hardwood. I had tried to find then in Portugal, several years ago, but they were not "in season", the server, who was excellent, warned me that they came with "bone in" and heads on, which they did. I was not dissuaded. I combined the fish with sauteed fresh spinach and mill ground grits. I think I'll stick with Sardines from a can as they are a lot easier and not much different in taste. Marilyn had a delicious Lamb Burgoo with onion, carrot. celery, corn and wonderful halved small new potatoes all cooked together. I had several good sized tastes and the lamb was tender and flavorful while the potatoes, which had soaked up a good amount of juice and flavor still staying firm, OUTSTANDING. Just to prove that I am a "bottomless pit" I ordered the Michigan Cherry pie ala mode, again shared, a disappointment in size, flavor and cost.
Other had items ranging from oysters to fried chicken and all seemed pleased.
The next day for lunch 5 of us went to "Zingerman's Deli" the original base of the Zingerman food empire, in Ann Arbor. The deli is located downtown adjacent to the Farmers Market and is an impressive operation that has been in business for over 30 years. Many young people have worked their way thru "Michigan" working at Zingerman's. For lunch I had a Sable, scallion cream cheese and fresh tomato sandwich on pumpernickel. My "side" was a very rich Swiss cheese potato salad with fresh bacon bits and a creamy Dijon mustard mayonnaise dressing. Marilyn went for Matzo ball soup and a corned beef sandwich on light rye, real deli food.
Believe it or not I did not gain weight, which I attribute mostly to a faulty scale, or metabolism.
Before we took this weekend trip we had had dinner during the week at "Suzie Wong's" 1544 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45206 (513)751-3333, our second visit. At that point they did not have a liquor licence but I believe it arrived that very evening. The table split a "Laub Gai", ground beef and lamb in a slightly spiced sauce and served with lettuce leaves into which it is rolled, an Asian wrap. I had the Bi Bim Bap a Korean stone bowl with rice covered by marinated grilled beef, sauteed spinach, kimche and bean sprouts, all topped with a fried egg and infused with a lightly seasoned sauce. Marilyn had "Chicken Chow Mein" while the others chose shrimp "Pad Thai" and "Mandarin Orange Beef". I find "Suzie Wong's" very good and very reasonable, a good addition to the East Walnut Hills-Hyde Park Asian scene.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Old places-new delights
Over the weekend we went to "Pelican's Reef" 7261 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati 45230 (513)232-2526, with another couple, after drinks and nibbles at our place.
"Pelican's Reef", a sort of Key West Seafood Bar, has always been good for not only food and service but a general, relaxed, atmosphere as well. Maybe it's because we have been close to the owners for several years we feel that way.
Any way I believe the food quality and preparation have improved, from a good level, to one approaching any top seafood restaurant in the area.
Each week they send out an email notice of the weekend specials( I'm sure they will add you to the list) and I have found tempting items, almost without exception. One special this week was a killer dessert but we'll get to that shortly.
Our friends had a crumb crusted fresh John Dory, a firm, flaky white fish. The fish was crusted and baked and then placed in individual baking dishes on a bed of pasta and then baked again for a short time, heating and melding all the ingredients. It was outstanding.( I stole a fair sized taste)
I had large shrimp(scampi), split in the shell and stuffed with a crab stuffing. The shrimp were broiled and were firm and juicy while the stuffing was grainy, a good contrast, and had enough crab to give it a definite crab flavor. This was served on 3 cheese grits, in a large flat soup bowl, with a Southwest sauce( tomato's, peppers, onions etc) well seasoned but not overpowering. Another winner.
Now for dessert, and this may have been what brought us to the Reef. A large bowl, the four of us didn't finish it all, of deep fried chocolate, pecan, Carmel brownies, cut into strips and wrapped in an egg roll shell and popped into the deep fryer. When you cut into them the chocolate oozed out and mixed with the very large scoop of praline ice cream which made the center piece. As if this wasn't enough the ice cream was topped with whipped cream. No wonder we have an obesity problem in this country. Unconscionable but absolutely delicious. Total cost for the two of us with beer, salads, tip and tax $48.
The other pleasant surprise, at a favorite, was lunch at "Otto's" 521 Main St Covington KY 41011 (859-491-6678) I have posted comments about "Otto's, one of my emotional favorites, so that it is unfair to write more. The good news is the Paul Weckman is very much back in evidence and the food and service show it. The lunch menu seemed somewhat expanded and everything came out of the kitchen hot, tasty and delicious.
Sticking to my diet(Ha) I had an item that used to be only on the brunch menu, a Fried green tomato, bacon, lettuce sandwich, on a croissant with a fried egg added. Undoubtedly as many calories as a bacon cheese burger. To continue my wayward behavior instead of fruit, salad or soup I choose the home made, wonderful Saratoga chips.
My companion, a vegetarian had the excellent tomato soup followed by the always great tomato cheese pie. After all how much longer will the fresh tomato season last?
It was a great weekend of eating and I am thankful that our trainer doesn't have a computer and that the new treadmill, in the work out room, is functioning as it should.
"Pelican's Reef", a sort of Key West Seafood Bar, has always been good for not only food and service but a general, relaxed, atmosphere as well. Maybe it's because we have been close to the owners for several years we feel that way.
Any way I believe the food quality and preparation have improved, from a good level, to one approaching any top seafood restaurant in the area.
Each week they send out an email notice of the weekend specials( I'm sure they will add you to the list) and I have found tempting items, almost without exception. One special this week was a killer dessert but we'll get to that shortly.
Our friends had a crumb crusted fresh John Dory, a firm, flaky white fish. The fish was crusted and baked and then placed in individual baking dishes on a bed of pasta and then baked again for a short time, heating and melding all the ingredients. It was outstanding.( I stole a fair sized taste)
I had large shrimp(scampi), split in the shell and stuffed with a crab stuffing. The shrimp were broiled and were firm and juicy while the stuffing was grainy, a good contrast, and had enough crab to give it a definite crab flavor. This was served on 3 cheese grits, in a large flat soup bowl, with a Southwest sauce( tomato's, peppers, onions etc) well seasoned but not overpowering. Another winner.
Now for dessert, and this may have been what brought us to the Reef. A large bowl, the four of us didn't finish it all, of deep fried chocolate, pecan, Carmel brownies, cut into strips and wrapped in an egg roll shell and popped into the deep fryer. When you cut into them the chocolate oozed out and mixed with the very large scoop of praline ice cream which made the center piece. As if this wasn't enough the ice cream was topped with whipped cream. No wonder we have an obesity problem in this country. Unconscionable but absolutely delicious. Total cost for the two of us with beer, salads, tip and tax $48.
The other pleasant surprise, at a favorite, was lunch at "Otto's" 521 Main St Covington KY 41011 (859-491-6678) I have posted comments about "Otto's, one of my emotional favorites, so that it is unfair to write more. The good news is the Paul Weckman is very much back in evidence and the food and service show it. The lunch menu seemed somewhat expanded and everything came out of the kitchen hot, tasty and delicious.
Sticking to my diet(Ha) I had an item that used to be only on the brunch menu, a Fried green tomato, bacon, lettuce sandwich, on a croissant with a fried egg added. Undoubtedly as many calories as a bacon cheese burger. To continue my wayward behavior instead of fruit, salad or soup I choose the home made, wonderful Saratoga chips.
My companion, a vegetarian had the excellent tomato soup followed by the always great tomato cheese pie. After all how much longer will the fresh tomato season last?
It was a great weekend of eating and I am thankful that our trainer doesn't have a computer and that the new treadmill, in the work out room, is functioning as it should.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Rib's N Things
This mornings newspaper said that among the most distrusted things are Blogs. It made me feel that once again I should reiterate my philosophy of what I post.
I try just to report on places I go and things that I personal eat and what I feel about each establishment. I don't hold myself out to be a restaurant reviewer, a chef or a professional in the service field in any way. I appreciate comment, of which I receive very few in writing, and several verbally and I am well aware the my tastes are not in any way universal. I am not a trained writer and never learned either to type or spell. So to sum it up, "What you see is what you get" That said her is my latest post.
Every since "Walt's Hitching Post", in Northern KY closed I have set out to try different preparations of Bar-B-Q Ribs. The closest to "Walts", or possibly even better, are at the "Ravinia Grill" in Highland Park IL a long drive from out base in Cincinnati.
Last night, upon notification of the chef, we went to the "Oriental Wok" at the Regency(513-871-6888) to have the Chinese Ribs, which he has prepared and is serving this week, as part of his "Restaurant Week" special $26.10 dinner. We, 3 of us, were on our way to theatre and so only had drinks and several appetizers( pot stickers, egg rolls, etc). The ribs were meaty, not at all fatty, done perfectly(firm on the bone) and covered with a sweet heavy Chinese Bar-B-Q Sauce. We ate with our fingers and were pleased to be served steaming towels and lemon slices to clean our hands and mouths as we finished. They will be on the menu this week and I'm not sure when he will repeat.
For the first time in several years I went, yesterday, to the "Dilly Cafe and Wines" 6818 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, OH 45227 (513)-561-5233. I meet a young man for lunch and found the food and service good and the atmosphere conducive to conversation. There is both inside and outside seating and an almost full house at 12:30 PM. An extensive menu guarantees that I will return again. For lunch I had excellent Gazpacho, while he chose tomato basil soup. The Gazpacho was nicely seasoned, although I add a little extra Tabasco, and had nicely chopped tomato's, green and red peppers, onions and celery in a "not to thick not to thin" tomato base.
We both followed the serves suggestion and had the grilled Salmon Burger, very tasty, served on toasted facahio with a slight covering of dill aoli. I removed the top piece although my guest ate the whole thing as a sandwich. This was accompanied by nicely done sweet potato fries($11). Pleasant lunch and mission accomplished.
Also this week we had dinner with our young friend and her 7 year old twins in the garden at "Arthur's" on Edward Road in Hyde Park. Dinner with this group is always a fun evening( we are extra grandparents to another family). Monday night was "Burger Madness( $7) which gave us all a choice of as many topping, up to 12, as we wanted at no extra cost. On my burger( medium, next time it will be medium-rare) I added blue cheese, sauteed onions and mushrooms, banana peppers and topped it all off with A-1 sauce. Messy but good. This and a Mt Carmel Amber covered dinner and held me till we got around the corner to "Graeter's" and several tastes of jelly roll and Marilyn's toffee chip cone.
I try just to report on places I go and things that I personal eat and what I feel about each establishment. I don't hold myself out to be a restaurant reviewer, a chef or a professional in the service field in any way. I appreciate comment, of which I receive very few in writing, and several verbally and I am well aware the my tastes are not in any way universal. I am not a trained writer and never learned either to type or spell. So to sum it up, "What you see is what you get" That said her is my latest post.
Every since "Walt's Hitching Post", in Northern KY closed I have set out to try different preparations of Bar-B-Q Ribs. The closest to "Walts", or possibly even better, are at the "Ravinia Grill" in Highland Park IL a long drive from out base in Cincinnati.
Last night, upon notification of the chef, we went to the "Oriental Wok" at the Regency(513-871-6888) to have the Chinese Ribs, which he has prepared and is serving this week, as part of his "Restaurant Week" special $26.10 dinner. We, 3 of us, were on our way to theatre and so only had drinks and several appetizers( pot stickers, egg rolls, etc). The ribs were meaty, not at all fatty, done perfectly(firm on the bone) and covered with a sweet heavy Chinese Bar-B-Q Sauce. We ate with our fingers and were pleased to be served steaming towels and lemon slices to clean our hands and mouths as we finished. They will be on the menu this week and I'm not sure when he will repeat.
For the first time in several years I went, yesterday, to the "Dilly Cafe and Wines" 6818 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, OH 45227 (513)-561-5233. I meet a young man for lunch and found the food and service good and the atmosphere conducive to conversation. There is both inside and outside seating and an almost full house at 12:30 PM. An extensive menu guarantees that I will return again. For lunch I had excellent Gazpacho, while he chose tomato basil soup. The Gazpacho was nicely seasoned, although I add a little extra Tabasco, and had nicely chopped tomato's, green and red peppers, onions and celery in a "not to thick not to thin" tomato base.
We both followed the serves suggestion and had the grilled Salmon Burger, very tasty, served on toasted facahio with a slight covering of dill aoli. I removed the top piece although my guest ate the whole thing as a sandwich. This was accompanied by nicely done sweet potato fries($11). Pleasant lunch and mission accomplished.
Also this week we had dinner with our young friend and her 7 year old twins in the garden at "Arthur's" on Edward Road in Hyde Park. Dinner with this group is always a fun evening( we are extra grandparents to another family). Monday night was "Burger Madness( $7) which gave us all a choice of as many topping, up to 12, as we wanted at no extra cost. On my burger( medium, next time it will be medium-rare) I added blue cheese, sauteed onions and mushrooms, banana peppers and topped it all off with A-1 sauce. Messy but good. This and a Mt Carmel Amber covered dinner and held me till we got around the corner to "Graeter's" and several tastes of jelly roll and Marilyn's toffee chip cone.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
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After 3 or 4 nights eating at home we decided to venture out to Hyde Park Square and try the current occupant of the space in the square which seem to turn over regularly.
"Poco a Poco" (which translates to "little by little"), 2724 Erie Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45208 (513) 321-7626 now occupies the space formerly operated by "Red". I have heard that one of the owners also owns the real estate and that is one of the reasons behind the switch.
The menu has a number of small offerings meant to taste and share. Our server, John, was new to the restaurant business but was very patient and knowledgeable and therefore was able to guide us in making decisions. "Poco a Poco" turned out to be a good choice as neither of us wanted to eat heavily. Marilyn had more trouble with the menu than I but then she is more restrictive of her choices than am I.
After my Bombay, yes, they have a full bar, which I would class as no more than a medium pour($9) I followed with a fine Ceviche consisting of firm, sweet shrimp, sliced calamari and some small pieces of white fish, well marinated and served in an "old fashion" glass; and an order of Chili Rellanos, pablano pepper stuff with the shredded pepper insides, chess and a few bread crumbs, then deep fried, but not heavily or greasy, on a light bed of lightly spiced tomato sauce.
The pepper was only medium sized and would not have given more that a couple of bites if shared by more than one other person.
Marilyn chose fish tacos(2) rather small and slightly spicy. The fish was firm and the other fillings standard. Upon request, John brought a basket of chips which being warm and very crisp tuned out to be a good addition( no charge). The bill before tip came to slightly under $44.
A couple of other spots since last posting where the "Oakley Pub and Grill", for lunch with a friend. She had the grilled Grouper Fillet, which I think they do very well, and I tried the Chef's Special Hamburger, based on the article in "Cincinnati Magazine" about the best hamburgers in Cincinnati. This offering had A1 sauce, pepper jack cheese, deep fried onion rings and some mayo. Luckily I removed the bottom of the bun with the mayo and probably limited my intake to less than 1000 calories. The burger was fine but I'll return to the grouper.
Last night we returned to "Prima Vista" for the second time in 8 days and although I like the owners very much and the food is always as advertised this rapid of a return is not recommended. The menu changes very little and even the "specials" are often repeated. Last night was highlighted by the excellent bread pudding with rum soaked rasins and Carmel sauce with which we ended the meal. If I go soon again I may just stick to the house salad, adding Gorgonzola and fried Calamari and have the bread pudding all to myself.
"Poco a Poco" (which translates to "little by little"), 2724 Erie Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45208 (513) 321-7626 now occupies the space formerly operated by "Red". I have heard that one of the owners also owns the real estate and that is one of the reasons behind the switch.
The menu has a number of small offerings meant to taste and share. Our server, John, was new to the restaurant business but was very patient and knowledgeable and therefore was able to guide us in making decisions. "Poco a Poco" turned out to be a good choice as neither of us wanted to eat heavily. Marilyn had more trouble with the menu than I but then she is more restrictive of her choices than am I.
After my Bombay, yes, they have a full bar, which I would class as no more than a medium pour($9) I followed with a fine Ceviche consisting of firm, sweet shrimp, sliced calamari and some small pieces of white fish, well marinated and served in an "old fashion" glass; and an order of Chili Rellanos, pablano pepper stuff with the shredded pepper insides, chess and a few bread crumbs, then deep fried, but not heavily or greasy, on a light bed of lightly spiced tomato sauce.
The pepper was only medium sized and would not have given more that a couple of bites if shared by more than one other person.
Marilyn chose fish tacos(2) rather small and slightly spicy. The fish was firm and the other fillings standard. Upon request, John brought a basket of chips which being warm and very crisp tuned out to be a good addition( no charge). The bill before tip came to slightly under $44.
A couple of other spots since last posting where the "Oakley Pub and Grill", for lunch with a friend. She had the grilled Grouper Fillet, which I think they do very well, and I tried the Chef's Special Hamburger, based on the article in "Cincinnati Magazine" about the best hamburgers in Cincinnati. This offering had A1 sauce, pepper jack cheese, deep fried onion rings and some mayo. Luckily I removed the bottom of the bun with the mayo and probably limited my intake to less than 1000 calories. The burger was fine but I'll return to the grouper.
Last night we returned to "Prima Vista" for the second time in 8 days and although I like the owners very much and the food is always as advertised this rapid of a return is not recommended. The menu changes very little and even the "specials" are often repeated. Last night was highlighted by the excellent bread pudding with rum soaked rasins and Carmel sauce with which we ended the meal. If I go soon again I may just stick to the house salad, adding Gorgonzola and fried Calamari and have the bread pudding all to myself.
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