Lombardi's, Dallas -- Open-air dining in the West End on a 65-degreee night was really all I needed to kick start the spring after our horrendous Cape Cod winter. But the syrian-thin foccacia, not-too-rich Fettucine al Limon con Pollo (loved the lemon zest), and Key Lime Pie were all nice additions to the experience. (3.21.2005)
Morton's, Dallas -- I'm much less of a red meat aficionado than I used to be, thanks to elevated cholesterol and blood pressure. But how could I not partake at Morton's? I did, however, opt for the "slightly smaller" Filet Diane, topped with sauteed mushrooms and a mustard demiglace. I was in awe of its perfection. The cut had to be an inch thick, so it could not have been an easy thing to cook to a consistent medium throughout. The only other item I tried was a wedge of the freshly baked onion bread, also exemplary. I skipped dessert, but the chocolate souffle to my left and Godiva chocolate velvet cake to my right looked simultaneously sinful and heavenly. I'll skip the Morton's salad next time to save room for either of the chocolate delights. (3.20.2005)
Founders Grill, Dallas -- Disappointing when compared to Fish, which used to occupy the restaurant space at Hotel Lawrence. The latter introduced me to wasabi mashed potatoes back in 2000, for which I was immensely grateful. But I can't let that epiphany get in the way of my enjoyment of Founders Grill. First, our waiter, Carlos, took very good care of us. Also, the calamari appetizer was as good as any I've had at some of my favorite eateries. The pork chop, though missing the promised side of spice apple sauce, was moist and tasty. Two others at our table partook in the souflaki while another opted for the quesadilla. No complaints all around. The only truly negative checkmark was the visit we were paid by two passing vagrants. The first sought service at the bar ("I don't work here," I replied when asked for my permission). The other approached our table, interrupted our conversation, and launched into what seemed would be a long-winded plea for money. I cut him off in midsentence, firmly but politely letting him know that the five of us had not seen each other in some time and would prefer to be left alone to catch up with each other. He promptly exited. (3.19.2005)
Mary Pappa's Athens Market Taverna -- If you're ever at a new media conference with my good friend George Dratelis, have dinner with him. He knows all the good spots. And our dining experience at Athens Market last night was right on the money. Some of the best pita (fresh!) and hummus (fresher!) I've ever had, and the chicken souvlaki was succulent. Reminded me of the Spiedies we make at home. (1.18.2004)
Portsmouth Brewery, Portsmouth, N.H. -- One wouldn't ordinarily associate a brewery restaurant with family friendly atmosphere, but we are finding that more do accommodate the little ones these days. This was no exception. We grabbed a booth for lunch, and the hostess was kind enough to equip the kids with crayons and activity menus. The kids split a cheese pizza (there's a theme developing when we dine out with the children) while Brandy had a burger. I had a fried fish sandwich, which essentially was the fish and chips entree I wanted but with the bun thrown in; the dinner plate wasn't available until dinner hours. The sandwich came with a chipotle mayo, which beat the pants off any tartar sauce I've ever had. Brandy had the Weizenheimer ale, which was exactly the light beverage she was seeking. I had the Octoberfest lager, which was as good as expected. A return visit has to be in my future, if only to sample the Whaddya Smokin Ale. (10.13.2003)
Alisson's Restaurant, Kennebunkport, Maine -- Family friendly and outstanding food. What could be better for the vacationing foodie family? We later learned it bills itself as "casual excellence in the heart of Kennebunkport." It was exactly what we were seeking. I had a special, a black bean ravioli with a chipotle pepper cream sauce. Not only did it taste awesome and do a good job of clearing the sinuses, but even Brandy -- not a bean fan -- enjoyed it, having one bite to sample it and another to savor it. She had the lobster roll, which she said was second only to Brax Landing in Harwichport in terms of quality. The kids split a cheese pizza, and devoured it all. Sam also had the apple pie, sharing a bite or two with Brandy, while I tested the carrot cake, complete with freshly whipped cream. We recommend a seat upstairs, with a window view of Dock Square to keep the kids semi-entertained. (10.12.2003)
Southend Smokehouse and Brewery, Charleston, S.C. -- It's unfortunate that their Web site is largely under constuction, but they're too good at what they do to hold it against them. Since returning home a week ago, we've twice attempted to mimic the delectable BBQ chicken pizza (the best combo so far is Silver Palate Smokey Maple BBQ Sauce, cilantro, goat cheese, and shredded grilled chicken; we think it needs garlic next time). We've come close, but there's no matching the Southend's wood-fired grill (even the side order of fries we ordered for Mason had a smokey flavor!). The grilled salmon over salad was a bit dry, but tasty. The chocolate torte with the crushed pecan crust and caramel sauce was orgasmic. The sauce was good enough to stand alone in an espresso cup. We enjoyed the key lime pie, too. I'd write more about the beer, but I didn't take notes and the beer page on the Web site is empty. Suffice it to say I started with a "blonde" that was as refreshing as advertised, and finished with a porter, which turned into a perfect complement to dessert. The best part was the family-friendly atmosphere and staff hospitality. They accomodated our seating request and placed us in a semi-ciruclar booth that was ideal for containing Mason. The giant paper tablecloth and glass of crayons in the middle of the table were an instant hit. But the restaurant would work equally well as a date destination with seats at giant windows that were open cafe-style to let in the warm spring air. (4.6.2003)
Route 6A Cafe, Sandwich, Mass. (Sorry, no Web site, but how many breakfast places do?) -- This restaurant is more notable for its atmosphere than its food, though the grub was just fine (fresh corn muffins... mmmmmm...). It was the toy train that circumnavigates the dining room at nearly ceiling level that held Mason's attention throughout the meal. The good news? He was thoroughly entertained, allowing Brandy and I to enjoy a leisurely Sunday morning coffee. The bad news? He might have been too entertained. He forgets to eat when distracted. Still, if you're looking for a family-friendly breakfast place along 6A -- regardless of whether you live or vacation here -- you can't go wrong here. (3.23.2003)
Sienna, Mashpee, Mass. (sorry, no link) -- Those familiar with Mashpee Commons might remember Gone Tomatoes, next to the movie theater. I'm happy to report that Sienna has carried on the former eatery's Sunday through Thursday tradition of dinner and a movie: Buy an entree costing more than $9.95, and get a coupon for a dollar off the already low $6.50 admission. I also must rave about the tuna tartare appetizer, served over smoked salmon on a bed of cucumber strands and topped with roe. It was succulent and superbly presented with a nice combination of color and textures. I could have eaten three, and called it a night. Almost wished I had. The pesto pizza with carmelized onions was decent, but overcooked. The Caeser's salad was average. The grilled salmon gets a good grade -- a healthy portion with heaping sides of green beans and mashed potatoes. But that tartare was stupendous. I'll go back for that alone.
As a side note, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers was easily better than the first (and I really enjoyed the first). Don't often say that about a sequel. (2.17.2003)
North by Northwest, Austin, Texas -- It was our last night in Austin, and our intrepid host was challenged to come up with a dinner spot that had good steaks, quesadillas, fish and more (my friend stopped listing entrees and cuisine after he realized he was just hungry and would eat anything). Hence a stop at this unique eatery -- one part brew pub, and one part culinary paradise. Two had the meatloaf while another had the Smoked Salmon Pizza (too salty for his taste but I think I would have loved it and am going to try making one myself this week). As for me, I was tempted by two of the specials: a smoked pork loin soup and a blue marlin steak served atop scalloped potatoes. It was one of the better restaurant meals I've had in some time. I also tried the Duckabish Amber, which went very well with the meal.
Other Austin stops included:
• The Ginger Man -- 80 something beers on tap. More in bottles. A pool table and a dart board, plus an outdoor patio in the back. The Young's Oatmeal Stout was my favorite. Velvety smooth, and outstanding taste.
• Boggy Creek Farm -- For some smoke-dried tomatoes. Needed to restock the supply. But this farm in the middle of Austin city limits is a sight to behold. These folks have the right perspective on life, too.
• BW-3 -- Order wings slathered in any of 12 "signature sauces". We sampled "Wild", second from the hottest. We're glad we waited until the last order to do it, and we were doubly happy that we didn't order "Blazin'". I liked the "Caribbean Jerk" the best. We weren't wild about "Smoky BBQ" at first, but it grew on us.
• Artz Rib House -- It's hard to walk out of here without being extremely full (and without your clothes being permeated by eau d' bbq). This was my second visit here. I stuck with the sausage this time, but the racks o' ribs are first-rate.
• Central Market Café -- Mmmmm... breakfast tacos made to order. And Texas pecan coffee. The best part of Central Market though is the market itself. We didn't get a chance to go in this time, but I've been in previously to stock up on dried chili peppers.
(10.8.2002)
Mediterraneo, Providence -- Reading the menu was enough to make us salivate, and the food lived up to the billing. We split some appetizers -- Antipasto della Casa, Portobello e Prosciutto and Calamari Fritti, plus a bruschetta special made with sausage and broccoli rabe. For the entree, I had the Tortelloni con Crema Ai Porcini. It was a fantasy meal from first bite to last. The cream sauce was so good, I used the last roll at the table to lap it up. Probably not great etiquette, but it was so good I didn't care. Two others had the risotto of the day, which was essentially a Seafood Fra Diavlo Risotto. Both cleaned their plates too. Another had the rack of lamb while the other person in our party had Petto di Pollo Balsamico alla Griglia. There was not a disappointed diner among us. Do sample the coconut sorbet if you go. Another tasty treat I've not encountered anywhere else. (9.18.2002)
Capitol City Brewing Co., Baltimore -- I ate alone, so the meal may not have been a representative sample. The seat on the outdoor balcony overlooking the harbor made it worth the trip all by itself, however. That perk was followed closely by the Amber Waves Ale (among the best microbrews I've sampled in a while; if they bottle it and export, I'm all over it) and the two hot pretzels that come with every meal. The crabcake sandwich was good too. After all, how can you go wrong with a crab cake in Maryland? (7.20.2002)
Naked Oyster, Hyannis -- Three words: Chilled seafood tower. Clams, oysters, shrimp, tuna sashimi and a lobster tail, all to the tune of $45. "Outrageous!" you exclaim? Well worth every penny, I reply. We also tried the "Dressed Oyster Sampler." The "Baked Oishi" with pickled ginger, wasabi and tamari soy, was a delight, while Brandy's favorite was the Mediterranean packed with roasted garlic, gaeta olives, vine ripe tomato feta cheese and spinach. All of the dressed oysters have used fewer bread crumbs. They masked the other ingredients too much. We also enjoyed the grilled barbecue shrimp appetizer and a side Caesar salad. Definitely not a place to take the kids. Make it a date night on a payday, and splurge. (6.28.2002)
Amelia's, Nantucket -- Located well outside of town, it came highly recommended as a non-touristy eatery. The food was as beautiful as any Monet, and tasted fabulous. But the portions were meager (we're not fans of nouveau cuisine, generally speaking), and our waiter was stiffer than meringue. We couldn't tell if he was merely a novice, or an experienced French restaurant waiter. Go for the food, and hope the service was an aberration. (5.19.2002)
Barnsider's Mile and a Quarter, Providence -- I could read this menu for hours. There were so many tempting choices, I can't wait to try something else next time. For this trip, I ordered Cajun-style pork chops with cinnamon applesauce, cooked to perfection and eaten in its entirety. The side of roasted garlic mashed potatoes was huge and delicious. Next time, I'll remember to go easy at the salad bar. We also sampled the grilled portabello and shrimp cocktail appetizers, both of which delighted our table of food savants. We all passed on dessert, but I just might return for it soon. The fried ice cream that was en route to other tables looked dreamy. (4.13.2002)
The Rack, Boston -- Speaking of The Rack, the coconut shrimp appetizer was delectable. The mango sauce had the right touch of spice. Brandy's steak tips were perfectly cooked, but my BBQ chicken sandwich was a little dry and frankly, was on more bread than it needed (a bulky roll would have been better than the hogie-style bun it came on). Mason loved it all, though, french fries included. Brandy and I both felt a little too old and too married to stick around past dinner (though Mason was eyeing the waitresses...). But we went early enough so it wasn't too crowded, and the wait staff and management took good care of us. (4.4.2002)
Hyannisport Brewing Co., Hyannis, Mass. -- Sold this week, and reportedly will be renamed to just the Hyport Brewing Co. Locals call it "The Hyport" anyway, so that makes some sense. Last week, my wife and I were looking for a family-friendly spot to take our 9-month-old son. The Hyport has always been a favorite spot, and the staff was quite tolerant of our little miscreant. Actually, he was well behaved -- probably better than me. I wolfed down my beer-battered fish and chips, and topped it off with a black-and-tan. Mason stuck to oyster crackers and the innards of a fresh-basked roll. (2.24.2002)
Belfry Inne & Bistro, Sandwich, Mass. -- My wife used to go to church in this building. Now it's not only a unique bed and breakfast, but also a fantastic restaurant. The menu is a mouth-watering read, and the food lives up to expectations. Wine list was spectacular, too. And the staff treated us like royalty. (12.1.2001)
British Beer Company, Sandwich, Mass. -- Family-friendly dining, plus a wide variety of outstanding beer that for me is just over a mile from home. How can a guy not love that? For anyone heading there, I highly recommend the gumbo. (9.25.2001)
Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington, D.C. -- An ever-changing menu, so when I looked back to see what pasta dish I'd had (which was just about the most scrumptious restaurant meal I've ever eaten), it was gone. Suffice it to say the food here is impeccable.
Joe's Bar & Grille, Orleans, Mass. -- Everyone we have ever brought to this restaurant has loved it.
Mount Blue, Norwell, Mass. -- Sure, it's got celebrity owners, so it's a trendy spot. But I still walked away loving the food.
The Roadhouse Cafe, Hyannis, Mass. -- Monday nights are great for jazz and cigars. The food is great every night. Of course, I'm somewhat biased. My wife and I had our wedding reception here.
