Callbox Grill

I eat less and less meat, not that I am trying to become a vegetarian but I have learned to really love the color and flavor of what is healthier. But when a new neighborhood restaurant opened, I had to check it out, even it had all the signs of a meat-eaters paradise. The Callbox Grill décor is French country and the menu is concise, only offering what they do well. There is a small bar area with a saloon ambience. The bar's golden wood has been beautifully done and at least one neighborhood regular can be spotted with a beer and a view of the very modern flat screen TV. If the Cardinals are playing, the game is on and restaurant chatter makes it clear that everyone is watching.

The restaurant is on the corner of Loughboro and Macklind. The simple straightforward menu will hook anyone but an avowed vegetarian. I have briefly tasted the pulled pork and ribs while sharing several meals with my partner but I cannot stop ordering the beef brisket. After three times, I am addicted to the tender savory taste. Each cut spent just the perfect time in the smoker and while all cuts are not created equal, the meat was never tough. The sides are amazing. If you like mayonnaise based potato salad, they serve one of the best. The baked beans are tangy and complement the meat. They serve a Goose Island Pale Ale that works well with the menu. Ordering wine can be a little tricky because an open bottle may have set too long. But point it out and they will graciously open a new bottle and provide a fresh glass. All in all, I feel it is a great addition to the tradition of small friendly corner neighborhood hang outs.

Guido’s

This place has become my favorite affordable tapas restaurant. The service and quality are not quite to the level of Modesto or Mosaic but the price is right. The restaurant is located on Shaw Ave in the Hill neighborhood and they do serve Italian cuisine. But they also have a unique list of Spanish tapas and very affordable Spanish temperonilla wines. The atmosphere is homey and hearing the Italian music in the background lends a nice touch.
They have a great plate of Spanish cheeses, such as Manchego. There are homemade Spanish meatballs with onions, garlic and a white wine sauce. I loved the baked brie and tomato basil compote that is zingy and flavorful. The Empananadillas pastries are just right, stuffed full with chicken or tuna. The variety is unique and affordable. This is the place to go when you can't make a decision.