For my latest Metromix review, we headed back to 2182 Bistro in Brecksville. This wasn't my first visit to the tiny French bistro and wine bar, but I have a feeling it will probably be my last.
It's not that everything on the menu is disappointing, I have had a few good items. But for the most part, the food has just been so so, especially this last time (I had the gratin de macaroni which should have been outstanding based on description alone, but was instead a huge disappointment).
In addition, the service, while timely and attentive, has been rather unfriendly on each visit - almost as if they had much better things to do then work that night and let you know it.
I realize this place has a lot of fans. Maybe it's a fluke and it really is a great establishment. But for us, it's not worth the trip and after several attempts to like it, we're done.
You can read the entire review here.
November 25, 2008
2182 bistro
November 24, 2008
vue
On Friday night, we met two of our closest friends for dinner in Hudson at Vue, which is situated inside the First & Main shopping district (think a more quaint version of Legacy nestled inside an even quainter downtown Hudson).
This was my first trip to Vue. I've heard a mix of good (atmosphere, food) and bad (price, food)things about the Metropolitan-style restaurant, but was eager to check for myself.
As far as atmosphere, I thought it was a nicely decorated and agree with everything I've heard and read prior to (a twist on classic supper club decor). The decor is warm and slightly contemporary and definitely had a hint of the 1940s. We sat by the window and I watched the snow come down pretty hard, which just added to the night.
As far as price, some of the items were a little high, but given the location, I didn't think it was too bad. Definitely no worse than other places we've been to. But the difference between those other places and Vue, was that the food has usually been outstanding elsewhere and worth the price, unfortunately, I can't necessarily say the same for my meal here (but that didn't take away for an otherwise really great night).
I started off with the beet salad with goat cheese in a walnut vinaigrette. While I would have liked more goat cheese and even thought the salad itself was light on beets, this was a pretty good salad and the dressing itself was rather light and tasty.
For my meal, I had the caramelized sea scallops with lobster and corn risotto. The plump scallops alone were very good, no complaints there. The risotto on the other hand, was rather disappointing. There was just an overall lack of flavor and the consistency was rather mushy.
For dessert, I had the blackberry and Cabernet sorbet. Next to the salad, this was my favorite dish. And I liked the presentation as well, specifically the dish it was served in. Actually, across the board the presentation was creative, especially the dishes and bowl themselves.
So while there were some definite pluses and minuses to the meal, I'm not ready to write Vue off yet. I'd definitely go back, but perhaps the next visit will be for lunch.
November 22, 2008
my thanksgiving contribution
We are just a few days from my absolute favorite meal of the year. I look forward to Thanksgiving for many reasons. Obviously, the food is a big part of that but it's more. This is the one holiday that's just about good food, family and being together (and 24-hours of A Christmas Story).
For as long as I can remember, my mom has hosted Thanksgiving. When I lived at home, I loved waking up to the smell of the turkey cooking in the basement (she has a small kitchen downstairs, which is much needed given the size of our family and amount of cooking she does). That tempting smell would linger for days. Even now when we arrive for the holiday, one of the first things I do is walk downstairs to take in the aroma and peak at the turkey. This ritual instantly brings back 100 memories.
I keep telling Jamie that I want to deliver early, but not before Thanksgiving. I don't want anything to come between me and this meal. He says if I do, he'll make me my own Thanksgiving feast complete with all the trimmings. As much as I would enjoy that, it wouldn't be the same. I love all the dishes my mom whips up, especially the lima bean soup with veal meatballs that starts the dinner off. This soup is a long-standing tradition in my family and there is nothing, absolutely nothing, like it. Everyone that tries it is instantly hooked. It's that good.
I usually bring a few dishes with us, but this year was given the pass and told not to do anything but show up. Since I can't go anyplace empty handed, I found a super easy dish to bring from this month's Food & Wine: fennel gratin with crispy bread crumb topping. I like that I can make this dish the day before and bake the day of. I hope it comes out as good as it sounds.
I'm also going to bring two types of salami from Salumi, the mole (my personal favorite) and salumi salami (house specialty). Last year I put my order in too late and it almost didn't arrive in time. This year, I called in early October to ensure I could get my hands on the wonderful mole, with chocolate, cinnamon, ancho and chipotle peppers. There is nothing like this. And if you're looking for a good holiday gift, or doing any entertaining this season, check out this Seattle shop's (and Mario Batali's family) basket of products.
November 20, 2008
momocho
This past Saturday, we headed to Momocho with two of my sisters and their husbands for dinner. I was craving Mexican all week and no one was about to tell the pregnant women she couldn't pick the restaurant.
We took my sister and brother-in-law there last spring, but this was the first outing for my other sister. They can sometimes be picky so I was a little nervous (they are perhaps the only two I know that didn't love Lola), but after one taste of the guac, it was smooth sailing.
And it wasn't just a taste of guacamole that we started with, but several. We ordered the goat cheese, jicama with pineapple and habanero, smoked trout with bacon and the crab with pickled corn. I enjoyed each except for the jicama - too spicy for my taste.
For dinner, there were several new items on the menu, including lobster and shrimp empanadas and braised duck and yam enchiladas. I know the pepita and pecan-crusted trout is the house specialty, but to me it should be the smoked trout and crab chilaquiles. I order it almost every time and have never tasted anything like it. But this time, I promised myself I would order something different. And after our server walked the table through the menu, I was sold on another new item, the kobe beef albondigas (meatballs) with grilled tomato and chile guajillo, hominy and truffle oil. In fact, since I overdid it with the guacamole, plus the fact that I don't have much room left in my stomach these days, Jamie and I spilt this dish, as well as an order of the lobster and shrimp empanadas (and I still couldn't finish everything).
The meatballs, which were much bigger than I anticipated, were incredibly flavorful, not too spicy and cooked perfectly. We both really enjoyed them, as well as my brother-in-law who opted for the same thing. I didn't regret passing on my favorite standby and would gladly order this again. The empanadas were also delicious and ideal for sharing. I hope these are two dishes that permanently find a home on the menu.
Everyone else was equally as satisfied. My one sister tried the yam enchiladas and the other, with my urging, went with the crab and trout chilaquiles. Finally, my other brother-in-law opted for the pork chop with mole and smoked gouda tamale dumplings. Everyone was all smiles and enjoyed every bite.
For dessert, my sister ordered the fried ice cream. Despite being incredibly full, I couldn't resist trying one bite. I have to say, I didn't care for it. I didn't like the texture or coating. But what I did enjoy was the Mexican coffee. It's a local coffee they use (of course now I can't remember the name) and the server told us they add brown sugar and cinnamon. It was really good. So good that my sister went out the next day to pick up some for herself.
So I know I have said this before, but it's worth repeating: Momocho really is the best Mexican in town. The atmosphere, service, margaritas and of course, food, continue to impress and bring us back for more. If you haven't been, put it on your list. I haven't been yet, but the new addition of the Sunday Supper Special at $15 per person might be the perfect time to head to Ohio City to experience modern Mexican at a really good price.
November 17, 2008
blogging, bar cento and the food show
Last Thursday, we headed to Bar Cento for a blogger meet up. Fellow Cleveland blogger, Alexa, thought it was about time that many of the local bloggers met. It was a lot of fun to meet everyone, and even better because we were at Bar Cento and enjoyed some fabulous eats (mussels, olives, pommes frites, sunnyside pizza, salumi).
The next night, we headed to a United Way event at the Food Show at the IX Center. The two-hour event featured passed appetizers from Paula Deen, Michael Symon (the lobster pierogies were coveted by pretty much everyone) and some of the other chefs. The highlight of the evening was this champion celebrity bartender from Australia, Hayden Wood, or Uncle Woody as he liked to call himself. This incredibly witty and talented guy impressed the crowd with his mad skills (think bottles flying, glasses twirling). Jamie was so impressed, that on the way home he kept thinking of how we could bring this guy in for a party (granted he was a little over-served himself - sober I'm sure he would have realized flying a guy in from Australia for a party isn't going to happen anytime soon...).
Prior to the start of the event, we quickly walked a little of the show because Jamie had never been. I went to the first show that featured Mario and Giada, probably 4 years ago now. Honestly, aside from the cooking demos, I'm not a fan of this show. Frankly, it kinda grosses me out. I mean, you walk the aisles and all you see are people waiting in line 40 people deep for things like free pretzels and dip. And when you get up close and see everyone dipping their hands into whatever they can get, it just turns your stomach. But I will say, this event was fun - thanks in large part to Uncle Woody.
After the show, we were still hungry and still thinking of the great food from the night before, so we placed an order for takeout at Bar Cento. Of course we ordered the sunnyside pizza (literally Jamie's favorite pizza - ever) and the acorn squash ravioli and a side of the beets for me. Everest also hooked us up with two wonderful desserts, the apple tart and olive oil cake. Each were so good, I almost didn't share.
The ravioli, which was generously topped with pancetta, was flavorful, satisfying and just what I was craving. And the sliced beets with breadcrumbs were also fantastic. I liked this version much better than the beets with blue cheese, that used to be on the menu.
The long weekend of good eats continued with dinner at Momocho the next night, but I'll post about that later. I think I'm trying to get in as many meals from my favorite places while I still can. Not that I can't after the baby, I just know it won't be right away.
November 11, 2008
random news
Tartine
On Tuesday, November 18, head to Tartine for the restaurant's first wine dinner. For $50 per person, you'll be treated to a four-course meal paired with wines prepared by chef Nolan Konkoski. The menu includes:
course 1
warm mushroom salad, poached quail egg
course 2
pan seared monkfish, white beans, peppers, artichokes, roasted tomato vinaigrette
course 3
cider braised shortribs, celeriac puree, watercress salad
course 4
beignet, whipped brie, apricot, seared foie gras
The chef is also planning a few other tiny food courses to keep things interesting (amuse bouche, intermezzo and possibly some housemade truffles for a finale, but that part is still in the works). Reservations are encouraged.
Symon News
Everyone's favorite Iron Chef is at it again. Seriously - when does this guy sleep? According to Crain's, Symon is opening a new restaurant in Milwaukee inside the Hotel Palomar. I've stayed at the Hotel Palomar in LA, which is part of the Kimpton Group. I really like this chain of boutique hotels, especially the Hotel Monaco in Chicago and San Francisco.
Dominic Cerino
This isn't exactly new news, but in case you haven't heard, Dominic Cerino is now the head chef at Lakeland Community College dining and event services. This is a great addition for the college. Cerino will no doubt bring in a lot of business and really up the level of quality overall. I've been to a few events at Mooreland Mansion - beautiful space and grounds, but the food often fell short. That won't be the case anymore with him in charge. Oh how I miss those braised short ribs and lentils...
November 9, 2008
a night in the 216
Actually, most of our nights are spent in the 216 supporting local one way or another, but I thought I'd stick with my friend Danielle's Room Service theme.
Before we made our way to the Made in the 216 event at Room Service, which showcased several local designers and products made right here, we met friends of ours for happy hour at Fahrenheit.
Considering it was a cold and rainy Friday evening, you'd think the city would be pretty vacant. But it was the exact opposite. The restaurants, streets and stores in Tremont were flowing with people, and when we made our way over to the Detroit Shoreway, it was more of the same. I'm guessing people were still on a natural high from election night and wanted to be out to continue the celebration, regardless of what was happening with the weather. At least we were.
At Fahrenheit, the four of us shared several appetizers and a pizza. It was just the right amount of food for me, considering this baby has taken over the majority of my body and there isn't room for a big meal. We had the spring rolls, cheese plate, little meatballs, nachos and pizza with pancetta, sausage, cheese and a fried egg.
My favorite was easily the little meatballs. I was pleasantly surprised by just how good they were. Not that I didn't think this dish would be good, it's just that I'm beyond picky when it comes to sauce and meatballs. I have been on this meatball kick as of late - even made a big batch last weekend, but compared to Rocco's version, mine totally fell short (and it's my gram's recipe!).
I also really enjoyed the pizza, especially the chewy crust (which of course I used to soak up all the wonderful sauce from the meatballs). My only complaint is that I would have liked more pancetta and sausage - you can never have too much pancetta.
As for the event at Room Service, what an impressive crowd she had. From opening to close, she packed them in. And from what I hear, it was more of the same on Saturday. There were lots of good finds, from jewelry, to housewares and kitchen gadgets to baby goods - which is where our money went. We got this adorable pink onesie with a bull dog outline on the front and the cutest handkerchief bib with this awesome pattern, that I'm sure the baby will waste no time in spitting up all over.
From dinner to shopping, it was such a great night in Cleveland. And the best part, we were home and on the couch with the dog by 9! These days, that's my kind of night.
November 7, 2008
a quick conversation with rocco
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_1pAL_E3JOBU/SRRck6pqZII/AAAAAAAAAPE/M3kKezbSniM/s1600-h/rocco.JPG In the November issue of Cleveland Magazine, I wrote two small articles. One took a look at four restaurants that offer al fresco dining practically year round, while the other was a very quick peak at a recent conversation with chef Rocco Whalen of Fahrenheit.
For the Rocco piece, I noticed the editors did some heavy editing. Not surprising since I have to come to realize that pretty much everything I turn in gets morphed into something else (which isn't necessarily always a bad thing), but also because this piece was meant to be under 300 words and I didn't exactly stick to that.
I can appreciate a guy like Rocco. Like me, he likes to talk. He's very easy to talk to and shared a lot - from his restaurant, to his love and admiration for the city and his fellow chefs to his future (like perhaps a cooking school in Cleveland someday...).
At any rate, here's what I actually turned in. It still doesn't cover my entire chat with him, but does offer a little more.
Changes @ Fahrenheit
Chef Rocco Whalen attributes the seven-year (plus a few months) itch to Fahrenheit’s revamped menu as well as other changes inside and out of the popular Tremont eatery.
“It was time for an overhaul,” he explains. “Time to get rid of the tablecloths, update the furniture, bring back some menu favorites and finally, we were able to finally secure the patio all while staying competitive with the economy.”
Whalen is proud of the fact that you can come to Fahrenheit and spend as little ($20 for a couple beers and a pizza) or as much as you want.
Even though the menu technically changes every six weeks to reflect the chef’s inventive and fresh approach to food (the restaurant doesn’t even house a freezer!), look for a few popular items to become more permanent, including his mom’s little meatballs with roasted garlic tomato reduction, rare beef carpaccio, chicken spring rolls and the Kobe short ribs. And thanks to the persistence of one woman over the years, the crispy fried goat cheese salad with balsamic greens is now back, a dish that was on the original menu.
Regardless if you visit next month, or 10 years from now, there is one dish that will always be on the menu: the coffee and mustard crusted pork tenderloin. “This dish is my representation of Cleveland,” Whalen explains. “I take it off and I get death threats!”
While Rocco may have had the itch to change a few things, one thing is for certain, this Mentor native is devoted to this neighborhood and isn’t leaving anytime soon.
“This neighborhood for me is the kitty’s meow,” he says. “We have the best food, chefs, stores – everything right here. Now that doesn’t take away from my boys in Ohio City, but I truly do love this place. Mike [Symon] started something great and I just love being here.”
November 5, 2008
dante / sushi blues
We headed back to Dante the other week for my latest Metromix write-up. Thankfully, we found ourselves at the Valley View restaurant on a Thursday night, which happens to be the night Dante becomes master of all things sushi for his weekly Sushi Blues event.
This event isn't new; I've just really taken my time in getting there. What a mistake on my part. The sushi was amazing and the music incredibly enjoyable (more so for Jamie - he's a huge blues fan).
If you haven't heard, Dante Boccuzzi used to be the head chef at Nobu in Milan. I've been to the Nobu in NYC numerous times as well as the original Matsuhisa in Beverly Hills and easily think it's the best sushi hands-down. Therefore, I had high expectations for our visit and was indeed pleasantly surprised - although there are still several rolls I can't eat quite yet... The only thing that would make this night better would be for Dante to add Nobu's signature black miso cod. If you've had it, you know what I mean.
You can read the entire review here.
November 3, 2008
breakfast at lucky's
We headed to our favorite local spot for breakfast yesterday morning, Lucky's Cafe in Tremont. If you have yet to check this little spot out for coffee and breakfast, do yourself a favor and go - soon. Lucky's not only features wonderful and tempting selections for brunch, but the atmosphere is super cozy and relaxing, which makes it ideal as a breakfast destination (especially this time of the year).
On the menu, I quickly spotted a few specials that almost swayed me, like the cinnamon crepes and pumpkin pancakes, but wasn't in the mood for something that sweet. Instead, we split our favorite: the breakfast burrito (eggs wrapped in two tortillas covered with thick guajillo sauce, cheese and baked) and pecan-crusted bacon.
The bacon at Lucky's alone is worth the trip regardless of location. We always say we should try to recreate this at home, but quickly realize it's probably better that we don't!
On this particular visit, I noticed all the little ones inside. This of course made me happy since we won't have to sacrifice visits once the baby comes (unless of course she's a screamer!).
On our way home, we stopped at the new cupcake shop, A Cookie and a Cupcake, from Wendy Thompson, formerly with Dante. Unfortunately, it was too early and they weren't open quite yet (not until 11 a.m. on Sundays), but the store really does look cute (as you might expect given the concept) with lots of impressive goodies in the window.
Wendy told me via e-mail recently that they do offer a cupcake similar to the chocolate and peanut butter bar that she created for Dante, which was easily one of the best desserts we've had in town. We're really looking forward to trying this.
October 28, 2008
made in the 216
My favorite store in Cleveland, Room Service, is hosting its seconds event dedicated to Cleveland-based designers showcasing all things made locally. If you've yet to check out this store, this is the perfect opportunity. When you're done shopping, head next door for dinner at Luxe (but not before checking out DUOhome, another fab store with great finds for your home).
More on the event:
For two days only, Room Service will be showcasing 18 different Cleveland-based designers offering a wide range of items from menswear to women's jewelry & handbags to household and children's goods and more (think early holiday shopping). Along with many new designers participating in this 216 event, local favorites that Room Service carries year-round will be introducing new designs for the show as well.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, FROM 4 p.m. -9 p.m. (shopping & catered by Luxe)
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, SHOPPING 11-6
October 27, 2008
the flying fig
To celebrate our second wedding anniversary, we headed to The Flying Fig in Ohio City. Since neither of us have been here for dinner in quite some time, and both consider it one of the city's best, we figured it was the perfect choice.
I love this restaurant for many reasons and always recommend it to people that have never been. The decor, location, staff and of course food truly make it a Cleveland standout.
I started with a glass of Crios cabernet from Argentina and savored every last drop. It's funny, pre-pregnancy, I would easily enjoy several glasses of wine throughout the night, often sharing a bottle (sometimes two...) with whomever. Now, or at least for the next few weeks, I allow myself to have one glass of wine here and there and make it last for the entire night. I never thought it was possible to make one glass last - who knew? I consider it quite the accomplishment to still have a few sips left by the time dessert arrives.
For starters, I went with the beet salad with goat cheese, toasted walnuts and honey vinaigrette. Not only was this salad beautifully presented, it was absolutely delicious (although I would have liked a bit more vinaigrette). However, rest assured chef Matt and Lolita, your beet salad still reigns supreme.
For dinner, I opted to go with a trio of small plates: seared scallop stuffed with braised beef and horseradish potato puree; medjool dates with smoked bacon stuffed with chorizo in a smoked pepper sauce; and braised lamb shank aside a scallion crepe and roasted local baby carrots.
The option of several small plates it truly my kind of concept. I love to try several different items and usually have a hard time deciding on one final dish. I love being able to explore different flavors and giving a few different combinations a try.
I couldn't be more happy with my three choices. Every bite was delicious, especially the scallop and lamb shank with its rich and thick sauce. And the horseradish puree was flavorful and had the perfect amount of horseradish. I enjoyed the dates, but found the sauce a little bland and thought the dates were better as is.
Jamie went with the grilled short ribs atop the horseradish puree. Considering he scraped his plate clean, I think he was also equally as happy with his selection. We were both surprised this dish was grilled versus braised, but agreed the grilled flavor really made the short ribs.
For dessert, we had the molton chocolate cake with fig ice cream. In a word - wow. Not since the molton cake at the old Fulton Bar and Grill with its original chef have we had a version this good. Many have come close, but this was unbelievable and really hit the spot.
All in all, it was a wonderful meal at one of our favorite spots. And even better, it has been an amazing first two years of marriage that just keeps getting better.
October 23, 2008
my kind of friday
Every Friday from October 31 until November 28, head to Baricelli for flight of bubbles and a trio of cheese for $30. Baricelli is known for its outstanding cheese selection, easily the best in Cleveland. And how fun to pair it with a flight of premium champagnes.
Note to Baricelli - please revisit this Friday special for early next year. I have around 7 weeks to go with this pregnancy and even though this Friday special is right up my alley, I can't go for obvious reasons. Why is it that you can't eat any of the good stuff while pregnant? Most good cheeses are off limits, a lot of fish, sushi (unless it's cooked), wine (ok, I get this one but it's hard - although I do allow myself a glass of red here and there), caffeine, etc. I know it's all for a good cause, but I miss brie and the rainbow roll at Pacific East!
At any rate, head to Baricelli because this will no doubt be a fun night, especially if you are as much of a cheese fanatic as I am.
October 22, 2008
superior pho
I've enjoyed Vietnamese food on several occasions, but never from Superior Pho. For my recent Metromix write-up, I was lucky enough to finally try this fan favorite among Celevelanders, including Michael Symon (thanks again, Michael, for the menu suggestions).
A couple things stood out immediately about this place. First, it can be a bit tricky to find. Second, it's small - and bare. This place is clearly about the food and nothing else. Finally, I was immediately smitten by the owner, who was so genuinely friendly and down right giddy to offer up all sorts of suggestions, none of which were the least bit disappointing.
It didn't take us long to realize why so many people hold Superior Pho in such high regard. Between the incredible balance of flavors and unbelievably low prices, this place will surely be tops on our comfort food cravings list.
You can find the write-up I did here.
October 20, 2008
a ticket we can all agree on
Jonathan, a reader of this blog and new Clevelander, sent me this image via Flickr:
October 17, 2008
sushi blues at dante
Last night we headed to Dante to finally check out sushi blues for the next piece I'm working on for Metromix. I'll write in more detail later, but let's just say I'm kicking myself for waiting so long to see what this was all about.
If you haven't heard, Dante Boccuzzi, whose resume includes Nobu in Milan, launched a Thursday night special several months ago combining two of his loves: sushi and music.
Since I can't eat anything raw quite yet, I was limited but absolutely loved what I could have, including the BBQ eel and avocado roll. My only complaint is that there wasn't enough!
We also really enjoyed the music (Blues Deville I believe), especially Jamie who is a huge blues fan and live music in general.
Like I said, I'll write more later. But since it was such a fun night, I couldn't help share a little bit now and encourage people to head to Dante on a Thursday. I know we'll definitely be back.
October 16, 2008
thorncreek winery / spice of life catering
Last week, we had our annual department retreat at ThornCreek Winery in Aurora. I think somebody is having fun with me because throughout this pregnancy, I have found myself at more wineries then every before - including Sonoma and Napa. But I digress...
The last time I was at this winery, probably five or six years ago, it was known as Dankorona. Granted I was definitely over served that evening and my memories are pleasantly fuzzy, but let's just say there was nothing memorable about that place. While it was basically a dump with horrible wine, I have to admit I did have fun the few times I was there. Kind of like the old Lonz Winery - you didn't go there for the wine, but you always left happy.
I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived for our work retreat. The place looks completely different and is absolutely beautiful (the Web site does not do this place justice). The inside is very tranquil - almost like a spa, with a a giant stone fireplace surrounded by over-sized couches, wonderful woodwork and other natural elements that make you feel like you could be sitting in a winery out west.
The grounds were equally as impressive with gorgeous flower beds, walkways and a stone patio. You can tell a lot of attention and detail was spent on this "new" winery.
Coincidental, I received an e-mail from chef Ben Bebenroth of Spice of Life Catering the day before the retreat. Turns out he is now responsible for all the food at ThornCreek, another feather in this winery's cap.
To celebrate the new business partnership, there will be a Tuscan Harvest Dinner and wine tasting on Sunday, October 19 from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. The cost is $35 per plate or $40 the day of.
The Tuscan Harvest Dinner will feature an Italian family-style menu with ingredients sourced from family farms within 100 miles of the winery. Guests will enjoy a buffet of smoked Berkshire hog; olive-braised, grass-fed beef; heirloom organic vegetables; hardwood-grilled Chioggia pumpkin; aged cheeses and house-baked breads. All offerings have been created to pair perfectly with ThornCreek wines, including the just-released Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve.
"We've spent the summer tailoring our flavors to the wines and honing presentations that really suit this beautiful venue. Some menu items even feature herbs from the winery gardens. This dinner will showcase the best of what we've learned," said Bebenroth.
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by calling 216.432.9090.
While we won't be able to attend this dinner on Sunday, I definitely plan on heading back to ThornCreek soon. I was genuinely impressed by the grounds and overall atmosphere and look forward to trying a few of the chef's dishes - oh yeah, and the wine.
October 14, 2008
michael symon on roast
Roast, the highly anticipated Detroit restaurant from Michael and Liz Symon and Doug Petkovic, is gearing up for its opening. In this past weekend's Detroit Free Press, Symon talked about his latest Midwestern venture and why he thinks it will do well in Detroit.
In the article, Symon also talks affectionately about his family, getting into the business and all things meat. As someone who also enjoyed a homemade dinner with my family as a kid every night, I can totally appreciate where he is coming from. I love that that is how I grew up and I plan to do the same with my children.
Here is how Symon describes Roast:
"We're going to do prime dried steaks. We're going to do heritage animals, different kinds of pork. Roasted goat. Baby lamb. Everything will be wood- or charcoal-fired," he says.
"There will be some seafood options and some vegetables on the menu, but at the end of the day it's a very meat-focused restaurant."
Former Big Rock Chop House executive chef Jeff Rose will be in charge of Roast's kitchens, though Symon will be at the restaurant frequently, especially in the beginning.
He plans to keep prices below those of the casino restaurants, he says.
"There will be plenty of menu options in the $18 to $22 range. ... Prime dried beef comes with a price, and it costs what it costs." But his prime aged steaks will be more in the $30s, rather than the $40s, he says.
"We're not going to hammer people. That's not how we do business."
And while Roast may be the most important restaurant at the most impressive hotel in Detroit, Symon wants it to be enjoyable.
"If you want to come in jeans, if you want to come in a suit, you can be comfortable no matter how you look or how you're dressed or what your food loves or phobias are."
"I love great food, obviously, and I have incredible respect for chefs who put out great food," he says.
"But I don't think people go out to dinner to pay homage to the chef. They go out to dinner to have a great meal and a great experience and have a lot of fun."
You can read the rest here.
My husband has been wanting to go to Detroit for some time to gamble. I like to play blackjack, but get bored after an hour (unless it's Euchre, I'm not one for cards) and really haven't given a quick trip there any serious consideration. But now with a new Symon restaurant to check out, I'll definitely be eager to head to Detroit.
October 13, 2008
sokolowski's university inn
Craving the comforts of carbohydrates? Look no further than the eastern European landmark cafeteria in Tremont: Sokolowski's University Inn.
We visited Sokolowski's a few weeks ago for my latest Metromix write-up. By all accounts, it was the perfect outing for me. The weather was cold, a key factor when indulging on carbs, pregnancy has made me a certified carb-a-holic, and it's been well over a two years since I last had the award-winning pierogies.
The pierogies there are easily my favorite thing. So good that I plan on making one more trip before this baby comes. Because after that, I don't think I'll be enjoying my current diet of bagels, pasta and other wonderful carbohydrates I normally avoid.
Here's the full review.
October 10, 2008
new deals and meals at momocho
Chef/owner Eric Williams over at Momocho is well aware of the current economic situation, like all of us, and the struggles and daily changes many Clevelanders are making in response.
Recognizing that people are more price conscious now more than ever, Williams is launching a Sunday Supper Special beginning October 19. For $30 per couple, you'll have your choice of the following:
- chips and salsa
- chicken and yam enchilada
- chile verde
OR
- spinach and swiss enchilada
- chile verde
- vanilla bean flan
That's a really great deal at, in my opinion, the best modern Mexican place in town (easily). And the chef isn't stopping there. Look for new menu additions on November 2. These include:
- lobster papperdelle made from corn and masa
- hanger steak with chipotle-honey mojo
- warm green bean salad with fennel-radish-cilantro vinaigrette
- ginger snap and jalapeno bread pudding
October 8, 2008
salmon, who knew?
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_1pAL_E3JOBU/SOzArrN8XrI/AAAAAAAAAOk/Iv9TwiNhIFA/s1600-h/salmon.jpg At one point, many years ago, I used to really enjoy salmon. Then either my freshman or sophomore year of college I made a salmon dish that was beyond horrible. Ever since, I haven't been able to eat it - with the exception of smoked salmon. That is until the Dinner: Impossible party at Bar Cento where chef Sawyer made this awesome poached salmon in olive oil. I enjoyed it so much, I decided to give this ultra healthy fish another go-around.
Mix together salmon, pita, mayonnaise, egg, coriander, cayenne, 1 tablespoon chives, 1 teaspoon zest, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Season with black pepper and form into 4 cakes (4 inches in diameter).
Stir together yogurt, lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, remaining tablespoon chives, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon zest. Serve salmon cakes with sauce.
October 7, 2008
felice urban cafe
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_1pAL_E3JOBU/SOttSJzv19I/AAAAAAAAAOc/njt0RaynWcM/s1600-h/felice.jpg
October 6, 2008
lola over pizza hut the second time around
In 1989, I was a 12-year-old 8th grader with very big hair (we're talking at least a half can of Rave hairspray used to hold my bangs in place) and an obsession for French-cuffed acid washed jeans and New Kids on the Block. In the spring of that year, my sister took my mom's station wagon (the SS Esther as we would call it) and took me and my friends to dinner at Pizza Hut followed by the New Kids concert at the old Coliseum.
Cut to 2008, 19 years later. I'm now 32, 30 weeks pregnant, no longer sport the wall of bangs or cuffed jeans, but somehow (and I'm actually a little embarrassed to admit this) found myself back at the New Kids concert with my friends - although this time, Lola was wisely chosen over Pizza Hut (and my sister didn't need to drive).
Let's just say I was more excited about the dinner and being with my friends than the actual concert. Although it was fun to be 12 again for a night, my music tastes have (thankfully) improved and I just felt silly being this preggers at a concert. Luckily, there's never a bad time for dinner at Lola.
I love this restaurant. I actually enjoy it more now then I did at its original location. I've talked about the space numerous times in previous posts (even the bathroom!), but it really is one of the most beautifully designed restaurants around. And our meal and service were equally as impressive.
To start off, my one friend and I split the haloumi (Greek cheese) and melon appetizer with mint and almonds, and the heirloom tomato salad with arugula, frisee, basil and two mini blue cheese croguettes.
I especially enjoyed the haloumi and melon. The salty flavor and texture of this cheese paired wonderfully with the sweet watermelon. Sweet and salt - my favorite combination. Beautifully presented and incredibly enjoyable.
For my meal, I went with the braised short ribs with root vegetables and gremolata. Surprisingly, I often hear people say they are disappointed by the portion sizes at Lola. If that's the case, clearly they haven't had this dish because the portion size was rather impressive - even for someone who is pregnant.
Overall, the ribs were incredibly tender (no knife needed) and flavorful. The perfect fall meal. While I genuinely enjoyed each bite, I wouldn't say they were my favorite (that distinction still goes to Crush in Seattle) but I would happily order again and again.
For dessert, we finished with the strawberry shortcake and a trio of cheeses. The small bite of the shortcake I had was wonderful, but for me, cheese will always win. A great selection put together by our server, which of course I can't recall.
In general, I have to say I am really impressed with that whole area and need to get down more often. And very soon, there will be the addition of The Greenhouse Tavern and our friend's coffee shop, two places that will undoubtedly do well and I know we'll frequent often.
So was it the best concert I've ever been to? Not even close (that would be a tie between Pearl Jam and Paul McCartney). But as silly as I may have felt, I did have fun stepping back in time for a few hours and especially enjoyed our fabulous meal at Lola - which was definitely the highlight of the evening for me. That, and looking at all the 30-something women try and fit into their original concert tees from 1989!
October 2, 2008
an anniversary treat for everyone
On October 9, Bar Cento will celebrate its one year anniversary. To toast the occasion, chef Jonathon Sawyer is giving away one free pizza, your choice, with the purchase of a bottle of wine (bottle prices start at $15 on up). Not a bad deal.
If you've yet to check out Bar Cento, this is a perfect opportunity to go. Recently, Gourmet recognized the Ohio City eatery for Sawyer's thin and flavorful pizzas and wallet-friendly prices. Be sure to check out the sunnyside pizza - it's hands-down our favorite. Great crust with a sunnyside up egg in the center with tons of pepper (although admittedly, I often ask for a little less pepper) and prosciutto. Yum.