We went to Nathalie's because we knew they had a locavore focus and because they happened to be open early on a Friday for dinner. I was completely impressed. The menu was amazing and I chose the rockbridge trout that came with a beautiful vegetable medley. My wife had the moussaka.
The wine list had some really nice options but the one I chose happened to be very affordable and really nice. It was the Hahn. The place is much more beautiful than any of its former incarnations. But the best part was the staff. They were all clearly proud to be there and it showed in how they presented the menu and the offer to give us a tour of the other parts of the house. I think this is going to be my new favorite place.
May 9, 2014
Three new discoveries
We had dinner with friends recently at the Purple Martin Restaurant located at 2800 Shenandoah. First, the intersection of Shenandoah and California is one filled with LGBT history in St. Louis. Some years back, there were three gay establishments on this corner. So while the Purple Martin is not exclusively gay, it can certainly bring in a lot of folks who appreciate the history and the food.
The Middle Eastern inspired menu is very unique and interesting. We had their unusual but tasty twist on hummus and some really great classic cocktails. We were able to sit outside on the patio and it was quite a treat. I hope to return.
Another great find is Las Palmas on Manchester in Maplewood. They have really awesome margaritas and really good guacamole. The entrees were exceptional, some of the best Mexican food I have had outside of the places on Cherokee Street. The mole sauce was just outstanding and I highly recommend giving this place a try.
And finally, I was searching Opentable for reservations downtown on a Saturday night and found the most options for the Lucas Park Grille. For some reason, the place was not packed and it should be. We started with chorizo and blue cheese stuffed dates which were amazing. We had a scallop small plate that was as good as anything anywhere. The drink menu was outstanding and the wine list as well. I am not sure why they are not packing them in but I want to go back.
The Middle Eastern inspired menu is very unique and interesting. We had their unusual but tasty twist on hummus and some really great classic cocktails. We were able to sit outside on the patio and it was quite a treat. I hope to return.
Another great find is Las Palmas on Manchester in Maplewood. They have really awesome margaritas and really good guacamole. The entrees were exceptional, some of the best Mexican food I have had outside of the places on Cherokee Street. The mole sauce was just outstanding and I highly recommend giving this place a try.
And finally, I was searching Opentable for reservations downtown on a Saturday night and found the most options for the Lucas Park Grille. For some reason, the place was not packed and it should be. We started with chorizo and blue cheese stuffed dates which were amazing. We had a scallop small plate that was as good as anything anywhere. The drink menu was outstanding and the wine list as well. I am not sure why they are not packing them in but I want to go back.
Mar 25, 2014
Where I have eaten lately
I tried Ciao, at 4534 Gravois recently. This space had once been another restaurant and there are only minor changes. There are really funky, cool long tables that would be great for appetizers and drinks but less than ideal for eating dinner. I had the Ciao signature cocktail which was a little time citrusy for my taste and a little light on the booze. We started with a cheese platter which was nice but not spectacular. The pasta however was quite excellent, the linguini primavera is cooked with whipped cream and it is very special. I enjoyed it a lot.The tramisu dessert was also top notch.
On the way to a show at the Fox, we found very limited options if you want to get down there early and park. So we settled on Dooley's Beef N Brew House. I will give them kudos for the home made chips. I had the ribeye sandwich and it was pretty decent. The wine by the glass was not bad for a brewhouse but they were out of nearly early whisky I tried to order. I ended up with a shot of Jameson for dessert but I really wanted Scotch.
On the Mexican front, we tried Mariachis II at the recommendation of many who said they have the best margaritas. I disagree as again I found them to heavy on the citrus and too light on the tequila. It was suppose to be a "Cadillac" version but I couldn't detect any Cointreau or Grand Marnier. The food was ok but nothing special. It is located at 4536 Gravois.
And finally, I continue to be a big fan of the Mediterranean House Apollonia which is at 6836 Gravois. I love their saganaki and they routinely have really nice lamb dishes.
On the way to a show at the Fox, we found very limited options if you want to get down there early and park. So we settled on Dooley's Beef N Brew House. I will give them kudos for the home made chips. I had the ribeye sandwich and it was pretty decent. The wine by the glass was not bad for a brewhouse but they were out of nearly early whisky I tried to order. I ended up with a shot of Jameson for dessert but I really wanted Scotch.
On the Mexican front, we tried Mariachis II at the recommendation of many who said they have the best margaritas. I disagree as again I found them to heavy on the citrus and too light on the tequila. It was suppose to be a "Cadillac" version but I couldn't detect any Cointreau or Grand Marnier. The food was ok but nothing special. It is located at 4536 Gravois.
And finally, I continue to be a big fan of the Mediterranean House Apollonia which is at 6836 Gravois. I love their saganaki and they routinely have really nice lamb dishes.
Mar 13, 2014
Pastaria in Clayton (by Niche)
A couple years back, I had lunch at Pastaria. with a few co-workers. We had winnings from Fantasy Football to spend and spend we did. It is decorated like an Italian farmhouse and the pasta construction is part of the entertainment. The dark rich bread is home-made and you can make your own dipping oil with salt, pepper, quality olive oil and hot oil all laid out for your personal touch. There is a small interesting pasta menu along with pizza available at lunch. I had the pistachio ravioli and it was outstanding.
We went back with more football winnings and this time I had a classic pasta lunch special. It reminded me of how much I truly love this place.
So when I had a recent opportunity to be in Clayton at dinner time, Pastaria came to mind. I went back to the pistachio ravioli as it is truly outstanding. My wife had the wood oven roasted lasagna and loved it.
We had a really nice Italian wine, Scarpetta Barbera (in honor of the Patricia Cornwall book series) and completely enjoyed the evening. The place was packed and from the conversations I could overhear, it sounded like lots of "foodies" are regulars.
We went back with more football winnings and this time I had a classic pasta lunch special. It reminded me of how much I truly love this place.
So when I had a recent opportunity to be in Clayton at dinner time, Pastaria came to mind. I went back to the pistachio ravioli as it is truly outstanding. My wife had the wood oven roasted lasagna and loved it.
We had a really nice Italian wine, Scarpetta Barbera (in honor of the Patricia Cornwall book series) and completely enjoyed the evening. The place was packed and from the conversations I could overhear, it sounded like lots of "foodies" are regulars.
Feb 8, 2014
Guido's on the Hill
Guidos is a long time favorite of mine. It is unlike any other restaurant on the Hill. First, it brings together Italian and Spanish traditions. It attracts many locals and if you listen, you will hear the languages and flavors that makes it such a unique place.
So I was disappointed in a recent visit. We were there very early on a Friday evening and asked if we could have the table in front of the fireplace. Temperatures had been in the single digits and with snow on the ground, that table was very appealing. It was early and there were just a handful of diners in the place.
Our waitress was very friendly and started us with a bottle of our favorite, the Luzon Tempranillo. It is great wine and a very nice price $24. We also jumped in to the tapas menu with an order of Queso Barracho (breaded fried goat cheese) and Mejillones a la Espanola (mussels from New Zealand topped with Manchego cheese). Ah, what wonderful flavors! We were enjoying our order when we noticed the owner pointing at our table and speaking Italian. From what we could understand, someone had reserved our table for 6 PM and it seemed like our waitress was being chastised for seating us there. All I can say is how rude and uncomfortable for us.
We were there and hungry so we went ahead with an order of the lamb skewers and bacon wrapped dates. All the food was good. The dates were actually done much more nicely than the last time there. Will I go back? Yes, but not as often. I will never feel the same about Guidos and it has solidified Modesto as the best place for Tapas. It is always an open and friendly environment and is right down the street.
So a quick update from March. We had another deal so we went back to Guidos for pizza. I will say that the pizza was quite good. It had a crunchy thin crust, just the right amount of tomato sauce and would move on to my top 10 list for pizza. But I also want to add that our server, Kenneth completely made up for the last experience there. He provided top notch service and recommended a really great wine that was selling for $28 for a limited time. It was the 2012 Arindo from Verdejo Spain. The wine was fruit forward with a robust finish.
So I was disappointed in a recent visit. We were there very early on a Friday evening and asked if we could have the table in front of the fireplace. Temperatures had been in the single digits and with snow on the ground, that table was very appealing. It was early and there were just a handful of diners in the place.
Our waitress was very friendly and started us with a bottle of our favorite, the Luzon Tempranillo. It is great wine and a very nice price $24. We also jumped in to the tapas menu with an order of Queso Barracho (breaded fried goat cheese) and Mejillones a la Espanola (mussels from New Zealand topped with Manchego cheese). Ah, what wonderful flavors! We were enjoying our order when we noticed the owner pointing at our table and speaking Italian. From what we could understand, someone had reserved our table for 6 PM and it seemed like our waitress was being chastised for seating us there. All I can say is how rude and uncomfortable for us.
We were there and hungry so we went ahead with an order of the lamb skewers and bacon wrapped dates. All the food was good. The dates were actually done much more nicely than the last time there. Will I go back? Yes, but not as often. I will never feel the same about Guidos and it has solidified Modesto as the best place for Tapas. It is always an open and friendly environment and is right down the street.
So a quick update from March. We had another deal so we went back to Guidos for pizza. I will say that the pizza was quite good. It had a crunchy thin crust, just the right amount of tomato sauce and would move on to my top 10 list for pizza. But I also want to add that our server, Kenneth completely made up for the last experience there. He provided top notch service and recommended a really great wine that was selling for $28 for a limited time. It was the 2012 Arindo from Verdejo Spain. The wine was fruit forward with a robust finish.
Dec 21, 2013
Frazers
On our way to see the lights at Anheuser Busch Brewery, we stopped in for an early dinner at Frazer's Good Eats. It had been a favorite back when it went by the interesting moniker, Frazer's Traveling Brown Bag.
Frazers Good Eats
The first thing we realized is that you want to go with the daily specials. As the waiter listed the mouth watering soups, salads, appetizers, and entrees, I knew making a choice would be difficult. We decided to start with a reasonably priced wine "Shebang" a Zin/Syrah blend from California. Since it was a house poor, we were able to taste before committing to the bottle.
We started with a puff pastry full of mushroom goodness. It was light, flaky, and creamy on the inside. It was truly special. I ordered the lamb chops that came with a mint glaze, served on a bed of mashed potatoes and topped with perfectly one asparagus spears. I love lamb and it had been too long since I had found chops served this well. My wife had the duck which was done French country style with a touch of orange, lavender and thyme. I had taste and it was succulent.
We loved the experience. The decor is absolutely beautiful with a stone washed look on the walls, elegant maroon plush curtains softening up the corners. The tables and chairs were soft shades of maroon and green and the whole thing was soft, welcoming and a lovely haven on a chilly rainy evening. We will be back so stay tuned for more.
Frazers Good Eats
The first thing we realized is that you want to go with the daily specials. As the waiter listed the mouth watering soups, salads, appetizers, and entrees, I knew making a choice would be difficult. We decided to start with a reasonably priced wine "Shebang" a Zin/Syrah blend from California. Since it was a house poor, we were able to taste before committing to the bottle.
We started with a puff pastry full of mushroom goodness. It was light, flaky, and creamy on the inside. It was truly special. I ordered the lamb chops that came with a mint glaze, served on a bed of mashed potatoes and topped with perfectly one asparagus spears. I love lamb and it had been too long since I had found chops served this well. My wife had the duck which was done French country style with a touch of orange, lavender and thyme. I had taste and it was succulent.
We loved the experience. The decor is absolutely beautiful with a stone washed look on the walls, elegant maroon plush curtains softening up the corners. The tables and chairs were soft shades of maroon and green and the whole thing was soft, welcoming and a lovely haven on a chilly rainy evening. We will be back so stay tuned for more.
Nov 16, 2013
Tripel in the Lafayette Square Neighborhood
Friday evening, we met some friends at Tripel, the relatively new Belgian inspired restaurant located at 1801 Park Ave. Since we were early, we decided to try one of their classic cocktails after first perusing their extensive Belgian beer list. The list can be long as there are around 450 breweries in the small country that is about the size of Rhode Island. But instead of beer, we went for two of their signature drinks. I had something called the Smoke Wagon which is bourbon, Amaro, maple, and bitters. It is poured into a glass containing molded ice and the smoke is from a Chai plum tea. I was able to remove the top glass when I had it smoked to taste and really enjoyed the drink as a lover of smoky whiskies. But it was a bit of a short pour considering the price. My wife had a Clouds Over Manhattan, which is made with white whisky, blanc vermouth, orange bitters and a topping of Cointreau-Cognac foam.
Once our friends arrived, we were seated in the very impressive dining room. It is very old school and traditional with wood and classic architectural touches throughout. Our friends ordered the terrine as a starter which was chicken liver and was very nice. We all had the French onion soup which was very classic, thick but not overly cheesy. My wife and I split an order of mussels (Moules Specialite Maison) which were cooked in a blue cheese and calvados broth. They were tasty, rich and really nicely done. I am now anxious to go back and try the other mussel variations on the menu. We had a nice and decently priced French wine, a 2012 Mas Des Bressaudes. I was quite impressed and expect we will be back soon so that I continue this review. I will skip the cocktails then and maybe try to taste a chocolate dessert as it is Belgian after all.
Once our friends arrived, we were seated in the very impressive dining room. It is very old school and traditional with wood and classic architectural touches throughout. Our friends ordered the terrine as a starter which was chicken liver and was very nice. We all had the French onion soup which was very classic, thick but not overly cheesy. My wife and I split an order of mussels (Moules Specialite Maison) which were cooked in a blue cheese and calvados broth. They were tasty, rich and really nicely done. I am now anxious to go back and try the other mussel variations on the menu. We had a nice and decently priced French wine, a 2012 Mas Des Bressaudes. I was quite impressed and expect we will be back soon so that I continue this review. I will skip the cocktails then and maybe try to taste a chocolate dessert as it is Belgian after all.
Nov 12, 2013
Eleven Eleven
I have always enjoyed Eleven Eleven because their menu in the past has included wild game which I like. They consider themselves a blend of rustic Italian/Tuscan with a modern California sensibility. So we made Open Table reservations and decided to stop in for dinner on our way to see Pink perform at the Scottrade Center. Our first pleasant surprise was the realization that the date was 11-11 and so it was the final day of the restaurant celebrating their 10 year anniversary. Upon being seated, we started with complimentary champagne (a really nice dry rose) that came in fantastic wine glasses that we were able to keep.
The next piece of good news was that they had an old favorite back on the menu. One of the few places that has ever done rabbit, they serve the hindquarters braised in a marsala sauce and served with a goat cheese polenta. It was quite tasty and not gamey at all. The rabbit was truly so mild that I might have thought it was chicken. But there is a texture difference and it is a little drier. Another bonus was that they were offering two options, a red or a white bottle of wine for $10. I was skeptical and almost went with a more expensive bottle but am I ever glad we didn't. It was a Nero D’Avola from Sicily and it was the best Sicilian wine I have ever had. It was smooth with nice tannins and it really balanced the rabbit. My wife had the fennel crusted pork tenderloin and gave it rave reviews as well. It was served with sweet potato gnocchi, pancetta, kale, corn, and a bourbon apple glaze. The pork tenderloin is a regular menu item. http://www.1111-m.com/
Eleven Eleven is part of a chain of restaurants now offering a dining card called St. Louis Originals. It is a network of locally owned restaurants.
The next piece of good news was that they had an old favorite back on the menu. One of the few places that has ever done rabbit, they serve the hindquarters braised in a marsala sauce and served with a goat cheese polenta. It was quite tasty and not gamey at all. The rabbit was truly so mild that I might have thought it was chicken. But there is a texture difference and it is a little drier. Another bonus was that they were offering two options, a red or a white bottle of wine for $10. I was skeptical and almost went with a more expensive bottle but am I ever glad we didn't. It was a Nero D’Avola from Sicily and it was the best Sicilian wine I have ever had. It was smooth with nice tannins and it really balanced the rabbit. My wife had the fennel crusted pork tenderloin and gave it rave reviews as well. It was served with sweet potato gnocchi, pancetta, kale, corn, and a bourbon apple glaze. The pork tenderloin is a regular menu item. http://www.1111-m.com/
Eleven Eleven is part of a chain of restaurants now offering a dining card called St. Louis Originals. It is a network of locally owned restaurants.
Nov 6, 2013
El Tapatio Review
I recently had dinner at El Tapatio, located at 3279 Hampton in South City. It is near Bayer's Garden Supplies. The location is a former Indian Restaurant and before that may have been a Pizza Hut. The sign bills it as authentic Mexican and certainly the neighborhood as become prolific with all sort of variations of "authentic Mexican". I usually assume that means the owners/cooks are indeed from Mexico but they almost always adapt the food of their home to American tastes.
To start, the menu was quite impressive and didn't feature some well know items but either with different ingredients or a slightly varied presentation. The prices ran from $7.99 on up but there were plenty of options for less than $10. I did notice that a side of sour cream was 99 cents but it was a generous proportion.
The real deal of the night were the $1.99 margaritas which were billed as lime margaritas and I was expecting an overly sweet, light on tequila drink but instead it was quite tasty and actually much better than a similarly billed margarita I once had in Tijuana Mexico.
I ordered the El Tapatio special, which is a chicken burrito and chicken enchilada topped with lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream and real slices of avocado. It was very good, though it was hard to tell which was the burrito. The only complaint was that the lettuce was just a tad watery.
My wife ordered the burrito California, which was served stuffed with either chicken or beef and topped with a white cheese sauce. It came with rice. She really enjoyed it and finished every bite.
As I said earlier, the menu was intriguing and I will be back so look for more updates.
To start, the menu was quite impressive and didn't feature some well know items but either with different ingredients or a slightly varied presentation. The prices ran from $7.99 on up but there were plenty of options for less than $10. I did notice that a side of sour cream was 99 cents but it was a generous proportion.
The real deal of the night were the $1.99 margaritas which were billed as lime margaritas and I was expecting an overly sweet, light on tequila drink but instead it was quite tasty and actually much better than a similarly billed margarita I once had in Tijuana Mexico.
I ordered the El Tapatio special, which is a chicken burrito and chicken enchilada topped with lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream and real slices of avocado. It was very good, though it was hard to tell which was the burrito. The only complaint was that the lettuce was just a tad watery.
My wife ordered the burrito California, which was served stuffed with either chicken or beef and topped with a white cheese sauce. It came with rice. She really enjoyed it and finished every bite.
As I said earlier, the menu was intriguing and I will be back so look for more updates.
Jun 17, 2013
3500 Winehaus and Robust
Stopped by the 3500 Winehaus on Watson for a Friday patio casual meal. Definitely get there before 7 PM and take advantage of the Happy Hour prices. It is an opportunity to try some amazing wines for a great price. Service was a bit slow but who cares when you are enjoying wine outside. The cheese tray was substantial and very good. The Italian meats platter took a little extra time as it was cut fresh for us, but it was worth it. I took home the prosciutto we didn't finish and cooked it like bacon the next morning and it was really good. It is a thick cut so easier to eat after a few minutes in a frying pan.
To contrast this with Robust in Webster Groves, I would say that the price will keep me going back to the Winehaus. Though I have always loved Robust, the last visit was quite pricey and not something you can do on a regular basis. We enjoyed some great wines and the food was very good as well. But even with a gift card, it was a big $$ bill.
To contrast this with Robust in Webster Groves, I would say that the price will keep me going back to the Winehaus. Though I have always loved Robust, the last visit was quite pricey and not something you can do on a regular basis. We enjoyed some great wines and the food was very good as well. But even with a gift card, it was a big $$ bill.
Apr 6, 2013
Basso Gastro Pub
We went to Basso Gastro Pub Basso Gastro Pub at the newly remodeled Cheshire. The pasta is quite good and quite interesting and unique. We shared a half bowl of gnocchi and a pasta stuffed with duck sausage accompanied by broccoli rabe. The wine, from Sardinia, Argiolas Perdera was really good and really affordable. The grape varietal is the Monica grape.I was not happy with the Valet parking, which is mandatory unless you want to park on the street. When we picked up the car, it smelled like smoke. I will be back and next time I will park across the street.
Mar 23, 2013
Dvin
We finally made it to Dvin in Webster Groves, the quaint little Russian restaurant without a liquor license. The homemade chicken Kiev came with yellow basmanti rice and it seemed authentic though I cannot say for certain. It was very good, very tender and I would go back for more. The price is right when you can bring your own wine.
Jul 8, 2012
Favorite Restaurants for 2012
Modesto continues to be on the top 10 list. The same goes for Tivoli Pizza, Onesto's and Pueblo Solis. Milagro Mexican is also still serving stellar food and the drinks are even better.
We do like Matthew's Kitchen. The fish and chips are my favorite.
A new Mexican place is open where LaSala used to be and it is promising. I still think Lily's is a great place.
I enjoyed a recent visit to the Home Wine Kitchen on Manchester in Maplewood. The burger was awesome and the wine was good, but a little pricey at $8 per glass.
Mojito Tapas was fabulous. The food was good, nice variety and the the wine list was impressive and affordable.
http://www.mojorestaurantstl.com/#!__home
Eleven Eleven has always been a favorite and I want to go there on Thursday when they have "wild game" on the menu.
Vin De Set's fish market night was a big hit. I tried Langostinos from Scotland and they were like mini-lobsters.
And finally, this local gem is on my list. Check out my friend Warren's recent review
https://plus.google.com/115156284835843341397/about?gl=US&hl=en-US
We went to Salt for my birthday and I loved it. Definitely lots of other menu items to try in the future.
A friend gave him a gift certificate for Ivory Coast Bistro and we liked it plus the whole vibe of this area in the Patch neighborhood that is up and coming.
Still loving the Farmhaus on Ivanhoe.
Another fantastic place that even has gluten free entrees and salad is the Big Sky Cafe in Webster.
We also truly loved a very authentic feeling Italian experience at Bar Italia in the CWE.
Holiday shopping and Lunch at McCormick and Schmitz-West County Shopping. We had really good Steelhead trout.
Still loving Tokyo Sushi on S. Lindbergh.
We had a wonderful pre-Christmas dinner with two of our dearest friends at a wonderful restaurant on the Hill-Lorenzo's Trattoria. It is located at 1933 Edwards.
We do like Matthew's Kitchen. The fish and chips are my favorite.
A new Mexican place is open where LaSala used to be and it is promising. I still think Lily's is a great place.
I enjoyed a recent visit to the Home Wine Kitchen on Manchester in Maplewood. The burger was awesome and the wine was good, but a little pricey at $8 per glass.
Mojito Tapas was fabulous. The food was good, nice variety and the the wine list was impressive and affordable.
http://www.mojorestaurantstl.com/#!__home
Eleven Eleven has always been a favorite and I want to go there on Thursday when they have "wild game" on the menu.
Vin De Set's fish market night was a big hit. I tried Langostinos from Scotland and they were like mini-lobsters.
And finally, this local gem is on my list. Check out my friend Warren's recent review
https://plus.google.com/115156284835843341397/about?gl=US&hl=en-US
We went to Salt for my birthday and I loved it. Definitely lots of other menu items to try in the future.
A friend gave him a gift certificate for Ivory Coast Bistro and we liked it plus the whole vibe of this area in the Patch neighborhood that is up and coming.
Still loving the Farmhaus on Ivanhoe.
Another fantastic place that even has gluten free entrees and salad is the Big Sky Cafe in Webster.
We also truly loved a very authentic feeling Italian experience at Bar Italia in the CWE.
Holiday shopping and Lunch at McCormick and Schmitz-West County Shopping. We had really good Steelhead trout.
Still loving Tokyo Sushi on S. Lindbergh.
We had a wonderful pre-Christmas dinner with two of our dearest friends at a wonderful restaurant on the Hill-Lorenzo's Trattoria. It is located at 1933 Edwards.
Jan 31, 2011
Grant's Cabin Restaurant
My friend Angie had her 51st BD dinner at Grant’s Cabin on Hoffmeister. The place is a rustic B&B and dining location right off of 55 at Union. It is actually catered by Orlando's which is just down the road. It is decorated with stuffed bears and deer heads and is an actual log cabin. The B&B rooms are right off the dining room. We had a family style early dinner at 4 PM. They first brought chicken and dumplings. That was followed with heaping trays of fried chicken. It was actually fried in a batter more typical of fish than chicken. But it was good with a big crunch and slightly sweet hint to it. There were bowls of mashed potatoes made from red potatoes. They served wonderful warm buns with honey butter on the side. Black Forest cake was dessert. It was a good, very filling meal that came to about $19 per person including gratuity.
Jan 21, 2011
Roadhouse 61 in Webster Groves
When you can't spare the time for a road trip to New Orleans, an evening at the Roadhouse can help ease the blues. You will find some great classic southern entrees. The traditional catfish plate is quite good as is the jack salmon. I have never been completely clear as to what fish constitues a jack salmon because it is nothing like a King or a Coho. The brisket is flavorful but tends to be a bit too crispy and overdone.
But you really go to the Roadhouse for the sides. The corn casserole is sweet, creamy, and very southern. It does remind me a little bit of the corn side that you find in some Mexican restaurants but this is an entire small casserole brought to you steaming hot. The sweet potato pie is dessert that you can eat with your main course. The best part is that it is not overly sweet but just right.
The outside dining is very nice but if you go in the winter as I did recently, dress warm as it tends to be a bit chilly. The service is excellent and there is a decent short wine list by the glass. I was on a wine fast last visit but I tasted by wife's cabernet and would say it was a bargain for the price. We recently went there with a big group to see off 4 of our friends heading for a Hawaiian vacation. Our servers went out of their way for us and helped make the evening very special.
But you really go to the Roadhouse for the sides. The corn casserole is sweet, creamy, and very southern. It does remind me a little bit of the corn side that you find in some Mexican restaurants but this is an entire small casserole brought to you steaming hot. The sweet potato pie is dessert that you can eat with your main course. The best part is that it is not overly sweet but just right.
The outside dining is very nice but if you go in the winter as I did recently, dress warm as it tends to be a bit chilly. The service is excellent and there is a decent short wine list by the glass. I was on a wine fast last visit but I tasted by wife's cabernet and would say it was a bargain for the price. We recently went there with a big group to see off 4 of our friends heading for a Hawaiian vacation. Our servers went out of their way for us and helped make the evening very special.
May 24, 2010
Modesto Again
I reviewed Modesto a few years back and I still have to say that it is one of my favorite all time restaurants and defininitely the best for Tapas. Right now, they have a great happy hour deal if you sit in the bar. You can order off the dollar menu. Most small bites range between 25 cents for a cheese or sausage ball to a dollar for a few of the more elaborate ones, anchovy on bread as an example. Recently, we decided to order two of everything and the bill came to only $17 and yet they brought it on a huge tray and we were completely stuffed at the end of the meal. They have drink specials too and you just cannot beat the deal.
Brunch at Bevo Mill
We were able to make brunch affordable at the Bevo with a Groupon. But it is normally $21 per person. It is an amzing spread however and one that is worth the cost. On the breakfast side, there are the usuals, bacon, sausage, grits, and waffles. They will custom make an omelette from the display of ingredients. It seems a number of the employees are graduates from Ecole Culinaire. But since it is being done by a catering service called Food Works, that makes sense.
There is salmon and shrimp, roast beef and ham. The lunch side had some German classics, brats and sauerkraut for one. The dessert trey was excellent, cannolis, chocolate cake covered with chocolate chips, pecan pie, cheese cake and a fruit tree where you can pull strawberries, melon, and pineapple.
They also serve bottomless mimosas or you can make your own bottomless blood mary. There is a table set up with all the ingredients you could ever want.
The building is still full of the same beauty and elgance that it always held. They have some outside seating set up and for a Sunday in mid-May, the place was hopping with graduation and christening parties. Make reservations unless you go early and only have a party of 2-4.
There is salmon and shrimp, roast beef and ham. The lunch side had some German classics, brats and sauerkraut for one. The dessert trey was excellent, cannolis, chocolate cake covered with chocolate chips, pecan pie, cheese cake and a fruit tree where you can pull strawberries, melon, and pineapple.
They also serve bottomless mimosas or you can make your own bottomless blood mary. There is a table set up with all the ingredients you could ever want.
The building is still full of the same beauty and elgance that it always held. They have some outside seating set up and for a Sunday in mid-May, the place was hopping with graduation and christening parties. Make reservations unless you go early and only have a party of 2-4.
Mar 13, 2010
Review of Robust
Robust is one of our favorite lunch locations. We usually have a very late lunch or early dinner that leaves us feeling like we just took a vacation to Europe. There are a variety of cheese and meat plates that come with dried fruit and these garlicky bread sticks that are very special. But of course, it is a wine bar and the tastings are always excellent. Here are some of the great tastings we have enjoyed:
Cellar Arts tasting
D'Aragon Garnacha-deep cherry with hints of violet, followed by intense blackberry and tangerine.
Volante Merlot-supple layers of blackcherry and berry fruits, spicy vanilla oak.
Four Vines Zin-layers of berries and anise with hints of spice, blackberry, plum fruit, leading to a toasted oak.
Worldly Chardonnay tasting
2008 Domaine Talmard-Burgandy France-lemon oil, green nuts, hint of chalky salinity.
2007 Northfield Frog Rock Vineyard-Waipara Valley New Zealand-apple, nectarine with a hint of pineapple, toasted hazelnuts and spice with a creamy finish.
2007 Errazuriz Wild Ferment-Casablanca Valley Chile-citrus, pear and a nutty layer on the nose.
Appetizers
Clarissa from Sardinia Italy-goat cheese with natural rind, semi-firm moist with flavors of citrus and fruity notes.
Nieske's smoked duck-succulent rich duck, slow smoked over applewood ambers, producing a melt in your mouth tender sweet smoky flavor.
Amablue Minnesota cheese-rose cows milk blue cheese aged in natural cases, rich and full.
Cellar Arts tasting
D'Aragon Garnacha-deep cherry with hints of violet, followed by intense blackberry and tangerine.
Volante Merlot-supple layers of blackcherry and berry fruits, spicy vanilla oak.
Four Vines Zin-layers of berries and anise with hints of spice, blackberry, plum fruit, leading to a toasted oak.
Worldly Chardonnay tasting
2008 Domaine Talmard-Burgandy France-lemon oil, green nuts, hint of chalky salinity.
2007 Northfield Frog Rock Vineyard-Waipara Valley New Zealand-apple, nectarine with a hint of pineapple, toasted hazelnuts and spice with a creamy finish.
2007 Errazuriz Wild Ferment-Casablanca Valley Chile-citrus, pear and a nutty layer on the nose.
Appetizers
Clarissa from Sardinia Italy-goat cheese with natural rind, semi-firm moist with flavors of citrus and fruity notes.
Nieske's smoked duck-succulent rich duck, slow smoked over applewood ambers, producing a melt in your mouth tender sweet smoky flavor.
Amablue Minnesota cheese-rose cows milk blue cheese aged in natural cases, rich and full.
Jan 10, 2010
Review of Five
It was two weeks after the actual date before we were able to have dinner at Five and celebrate Carol's birthday. While the restaurant is located on the Hill, it is not particularly Italian but a celebration of the five senses with a focus on local sustainable foods.
We chose to go with the four course prix-fixe menu. We ordered a nice Cabernet Franc from the Chinon winery in France. It was very affordable. I started wtih beef carpaccio from Fruitland Farm. It was so tender and succulent, topped with local black radish, sottocenere al tartufo and black truffle oil. Olives and fleur de sel garnished the dish. Carol had the housemade gnocchi, that was made from braised Benne Farm pork head ragout and Baetje Farm goat cheese.
The next course included a carrot soup with toasted walnuts and creme fraiche and a salade topped with toasted housemade brioche, almonds, roasted red onion, stilton blue cheese, olves and balsalmic vinaigrette. And while each item was quite tasty, it was the gnochi that really nailed the meal's first courses.
As we heard that they had butchered a lamb earlier in the day and the meat was quite fresh, we both went with the lamb shank. The lamb was raised at the Praire Grass Farm. It was fall of the bone tender and came with a rich creamy polenta with Ozark Forest oyster mushrooms, quark cheese, oregano, butter and white truffle oil. It was too much to finish so we came home with enought meat for a second meal.
We finished off with a chocolate sampling and the decadent bread pudding. They brought us two complimentary glasses of champagne and we toasted to a wonderful birthday for Carol and a great new restauarant that supports our ideal of trying to eat more local foods.
We chose to go with the four course prix-fixe menu. We ordered a nice Cabernet Franc from the Chinon winery in France. It was very affordable. I started wtih beef carpaccio from Fruitland Farm. It was so tender and succulent, topped with local black radish, sottocenere al tartufo and black truffle oil. Olives and fleur de sel garnished the dish. Carol had the housemade gnocchi, that was made from braised Benne Farm pork head ragout and Baetje Farm goat cheese.
The next course included a carrot soup with toasted walnuts and creme fraiche and a salade topped with toasted housemade brioche, almonds, roasted red onion, stilton blue cheese, olves and balsalmic vinaigrette. And while each item was quite tasty, it was the gnochi that really nailed the meal's first courses.
As we heard that they had butchered a lamb earlier in the day and the meat was quite fresh, we both went with the lamb shank. The lamb was raised at the Praire Grass Farm. It was fall of the bone tender and came with a rich creamy polenta with Ozark Forest oyster mushrooms, quark cheese, oregano, butter and white truffle oil. It was too much to finish so we came home with enought meat for a second meal.
We finished off with a chocolate sampling and the decadent bread pudding. They brought us two complimentary glasses of champagne and we toasted to a wonderful birthday for Carol and a great new restauarant that supports our ideal of trying to eat more local foods.
Jun 9, 2009
St. Louis Food Memories
My first St. Louis food experience was a healthy one. The Central West End neighborhood in the heart of the city promoted a Greenwich Village ambience during the eighties and was the place to be if you happened to be gay. On one end of the historic brick main street, known as Euclid Boulevard was the Sunshine Inn. The Inn was founded by Robert Nissenbaum, a St. Louis organic foods pioneer who founded Morning Dew Organic Food Market in 1971. The Morning Dew Organic Food Market is often considered among the earliest modern natural/organic food stores in the United States. He opened the Sunshine Inn just three years later so by the time I arrived in the big city, it was an established anchor of the neighborhood. The Inn was one the earliest and longest-lasting natural foods restaurants, serving customers for nearly 25 years before it closed. At the Sunshine Inn, Nissenbaum began experimenting with creating nondairy foods, many of which would eventually form the basis of his Imagine Foods' product line. Aside from enjoying numerous vegetarian dishes, I first experiences the vegan sakes made with combinations of nuts and fruits. I also tried the carrot juice smoothie and sprouts for the first time. Looking back, I believe this experience formed the foundation of my later interest and comfort with organic, natural foods.
When we moved into the south Hampton neighborhood in 1999, we quickly realized that we were surrounded by great locally owned restaurants. The evolution toward becoming so dedicated to patronizing these types of places was a gradual one. The day that we made the decision to buy our house, we had lunch at Tumo’s which at the time was the only restaurant in walking distance from the house. Later on, we began to feel as though we were in the center of something really amazing. The higher we watch gas prices rise, the more we appreciate the neighborhood.
Just north of Tumo’s on Hampton is the Pitted Olive. Dave Holmes, a DuBourg HS graduate and his wife opened the place in 2006. Originally planning to sell fresh fish, they bowed to health codes and provide an extensive take-out menu of prepared foods made fresh each day. They also sell wine, beer, and tea. There is limited seating indoors to serve their restaurant patrons but the most appealing feature is the creative patio they built behind the store. There is a fascinaring view overlooking the Bishop DuBourg football field. The patio is covered with a big tent, complete with ceiling fans for the summer and portable radiator heat for the winter. The wine list is nice; the pizza appetizers are excellent as are all the small plates. The entrees are on the heavy side though so come hungry. Between Tumo’s and the Pitted Olive, on the east side of Hampton is Plato’s Café. A few blocks east on Loughboro, at Macklind is the Callbox Grill. Continue north on Macklind and you will find Murdoch Perk.
When we moved into the south Hampton neighborhood in 1999, we quickly realized that we were surrounded by great locally owned restaurants. The evolution toward becoming so dedicated to patronizing these types of places was a gradual one. The day that we made the decision to buy our house, we had lunch at Tumo’s which at the time was the only restaurant in walking distance from the house. Later on, we began to feel as though we were in the center of something really amazing. The higher we watch gas prices rise, the more we appreciate the neighborhood.
Just north of Tumo’s on Hampton is the Pitted Olive. Dave Holmes, a DuBourg HS graduate and his wife opened the place in 2006. Originally planning to sell fresh fish, they bowed to health codes and provide an extensive take-out menu of prepared foods made fresh each day. They also sell wine, beer, and tea. There is limited seating indoors to serve their restaurant patrons but the most appealing feature is the creative patio they built behind the store. There is a fascinaring view overlooking the Bishop DuBourg football field. The patio is covered with a big tent, complete with ceiling fans for the summer and portable radiator heat for the winter. The wine list is nice; the pizza appetizers are excellent as are all the small plates. The entrees are on the heavy side though so come hungry. Between Tumo’s and the Pitted Olive, on the east side of Hampton is Plato’s Café. A few blocks east on Loughboro, at Macklind is the Callbox Grill. Continue north on Macklind and you will find Murdoch Perk.
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