I could be mistaken, but it sure seems like gelato shops are popping up left and right these days. Could this Italian confection possibly be the new "trendier" version of the summer treat we all know and love? (In case you have any questions about what exactly gelato IS, click here for a brief lesson).
Being the self-professed addict that I am, I'm ready pretty much anytime to consume ice cream in any form or variety. Therefore, I've sampled my fair share of gelato here and there. However, it never seemed to quite satisfy the way a scoop of Ben & Jerry's or even Baskin Robbins could. While I love the density of gelato, the flavor never really did seem be anything special. Now this is purely my own personal preference, but I love a bold, intense flavor. Most gelato I've had seemed to be lacking in this area.
Let me add one more disclaimer before I continue. I have never been to Italy, and I have no idea how gelato is "supposed" to taste. All of my gelato connoisseurs out there, please do comment, as I would love to become more informed. But as I said, I just happen to like a powerful taste.
Well, that is exactly what I found at Luna Rosa, a gelato cafe also serving lunch in downtown Greenville. My friend and I were just looking for somewhere to get a sandwich and happened upon this establishment. The offerings consisted of soups, salads, pizzas, and paninis. We both had a sandwich with a side of fruit. My portobello panini with fresh pesto was indeed tasty, but quite small. Our side of fruit was actually a TINY slice of watermelon. I mean, it was literally three bites. It's not that I wanted to pig out, but I honestly didn't feel that the food was worth the price.
Conveniently, I was still hungry enough to be tempted by the contents of the large freezer case. My friend and I got up from our table to go check out the selection and were immediately offered a variety of samples. Because I am so incredibly indecisive, I was taking a good long time pondering my options. The staff didn't seem to mind at all, and just kept passing us spoonfuls of almost every flavor, singing in Italian the entire time. That's another thing. The service here was awesome, and everyone was very attentive and friendly.
Now back to the whole point of this post. EVERY single type of gelato I sampled was just bursting with flavor. There wasn't a single one that I tried and didn't love, and the selection was great. The fruity ones were fantastic, but after much deliberation, I settled on a sinfully rich chocolate along with peanut butter cookie. Because of the richness, a little goes a long way. I savored each bite and was totally satisfied by the time I had finished my small cup. And the fact that it has about 1/3 the fat of ice cream? Now that's just gravy. It's practically diet food, right?
While Luna Rosa does not serve dinner, it is open until 10 p.m. (11 on weekends) for gelato. I think I've found my new frozen dessert destination! (For cakes and pies, Coffee Underground will always reign supreme in my book).
Bon appetito.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Monday, July 6, 2009
Get 'em while they're hot!
The first experience I had with cuisine from La Superior, a relatively new Mexican restaurant in Central, SC, was when a friend brought sackful of their tortilla chips to a dip party my fiance and I hosted last Winter. After one bite, I HAD to know where he had acquired these delicious little morsels. It was then that I first learned of the small family-run establishment in the shopping center next to the dollar store.
As quickly as I could manage to get there, I excitedly set out to see what else this place had to offer. I don't care how good a Mexican eatery might be, it's a disappointment if the chips are nothing special. On the flip side, with chips this fresh and flavorful, I had already had high expectations for the rest of the fare.
There are only a few tables, and customers must order at the counter. The menu includes familiar items (tacos, burritos, and quesadillas). However, La Superior is noticeably different from your average Mexican restaurant. All of the ingredients are fresh, and the tortillas are made-from-scratch. A variety of salsas are offered at a self-serve counter. The selection is definitely not as extensive as that of a larger business, but what is offered is certainly of superior quality. What can I say? The name fits.
The meats (I've had pork and chicken, but you can also get steak) are marinated and seasoned to perfection. The "specialty pork" is particularly interesting, with a sweet marinade that includes pineapple! Made with homemade tortillas and stuffed to the max, the large burritos and tacos are magnificent. Among the other selections are salads, tostadas, huraches (thick corn tortillas with toppings), tortas (Mexican sub sandwiches), hamburgers and hot dogs. I must admit that at first I was a little skeptical about the "Mexican Style Hot Dog." The menu describes it as a "hot dog wrapped in bacon topped with tomato, onions, jalapenos, mustard, and ketchup." To my relief, after some investigation, I found that this is not merely some Mexican-American hybrid creation invented to draw in the all-American Big Mac crowd. This is the real thing. Apparently these suckers were even at some point banned in L.A., where they were commonly sold by street vendors. I haven't seen any indication that you'd need to worry about sanitary conditions here, so you're probably safe to give one a try. Well, at least it won't kill you TODAY. I wouldn't make it a daily habit, but that's just me!
Now if that's not enough to pique your interest, read on.
On Thursdays, customers can place an order for tamales, which may be picked up the following afternoon. You won't find tamales anywhere on the menu. You just have to be in the know. Or you can read the sign, which I hear they now sometimes have posted. Okay, so now it's not quite as cool, but that doesn't make them any less good.
Offered by the dozen or half-dozen, one can get "green," "red," or jalapeno cheddar varieties. The colors refer to the mole (sauce). Green is filled with chicken, and red is pork. Now I had always suspected that the food was somehow more authentic than what I'd been served elsewhere. Maybe it's the fact that it seems to be the place to go among the Latino crowd (whereas the other Mexican restaurants in close proximity seem to appeal mostly to karaoke-singing college students). Or maybe it's the food itself, which tastes like it came out of someone's mama's kitchen. As soon as I found out where these tamales were coming from, I was licking my lips in anticipation. Apparently, the owner's mother prepares the tamales from scratch in her own kitchen and delivers them to the restaurant to distribute to those who have reserved their share.
We happened to be in Greenville that afternoon and were a little later getting back than we had expected. As closing time drew closer, I became more and more nervous that I'd miss out on what I had been looking forward to all day. It turns out that the owner was more than happy to stick around the store after closing, keeping our tamales warm, until we could come by to get them. They had already been paid for, so she had nothing to gain by doing so. It's that kind of service that keeps folks coming back.
Finally in my possession, I hurriedly unwrapped the foil packets like it was Christmas morning. Inside the tightly-folded corn husk, the filling was moist and spicy. The tamales packed some heat, but it was definitely not unbearable (and I don't have a very high tolerance). You can't have a tamale if it's not at least a little hot, and these seemed just right. It was love at first bite, and we devoured a few more than we had intended! And to top it all off, you can get these babies for a buck each. That's Taco Bell prices for something I'd be willing to pay quite a bit more for! Shhh. Don't tell anyone I said that. I'll leave 'em a good tip. ;)
As quickly as I could manage to get there, I excitedly set out to see what else this place had to offer. I don't care how good a Mexican eatery might be, it's a disappointment if the chips are nothing special. On the flip side, with chips this fresh and flavorful, I had already had high expectations for the rest of the fare.
There are only a few tables, and customers must order at the counter. The menu includes familiar items (tacos, burritos, and quesadillas). However, La Superior is noticeably different from your average Mexican restaurant. All of the ingredients are fresh, and the tortillas are made-from-scratch. A variety of salsas are offered at a self-serve counter. The selection is definitely not as extensive as that of a larger business, but what is offered is certainly of superior quality. What can I say? The name fits.
The meats (I've had pork and chicken, but you can also get steak) are marinated and seasoned to perfection. The "specialty pork" is particularly interesting, with a sweet marinade that includes pineapple! Made with homemade tortillas and stuffed to the max, the large burritos and tacos are magnificent. Among the other selections are salads, tostadas, huraches (thick corn tortillas with toppings), tortas (Mexican sub sandwiches), hamburgers and hot dogs. I must admit that at first I was a little skeptical about the "Mexican Style Hot Dog." The menu describes it as a "hot dog wrapped in bacon topped with tomato, onions, jalapenos, mustard, and ketchup." To my relief, after some investigation, I found that this is not merely some Mexican-American hybrid creation invented to draw in the all-American Big Mac crowd. This is the real thing. Apparently these suckers were even at some point banned in L.A., where they were commonly sold by street vendors. I haven't seen any indication that you'd need to worry about sanitary conditions here, so you're probably safe to give one a try. Well, at least it won't kill you TODAY. I wouldn't make it a daily habit, but that's just me!
Now if that's not enough to pique your interest, read on.
On Thursdays, customers can place an order for tamales, which may be picked up the following afternoon. You won't find tamales anywhere on the menu. You just have to be in the know. Or you can read the sign, which I hear they now sometimes have posted. Okay, so now it's not quite as cool, but that doesn't make them any less good.
Offered by the dozen or half-dozen, one can get "green," "red," or jalapeno cheddar varieties. The colors refer to the mole (sauce). Green is filled with chicken, and red is pork. Now I had always suspected that the food was somehow more authentic than what I'd been served elsewhere. Maybe it's the fact that it seems to be the place to go among the Latino crowd (whereas the other Mexican restaurants in close proximity seem to appeal mostly to karaoke-singing college students). Or maybe it's the food itself, which tastes like it came out of someone's mama's kitchen. As soon as I found out where these tamales were coming from, I was licking my lips in anticipation. Apparently, the owner's mother prepares the tamales from scratch in her own kitchen and delivers them to the restaurant to distribute to those who have reserved their share.
We happened to be in Greenville that afternoon and were a little later getting back than we had expected. As closing time drew closer, I became more and more nervous that I'd miss out on what I had been looking forward to all day. It turns out that the owner was more than happy to stick around the store after closing, keeping our tamales warm, until we could come by to get them. They had already been paid for, so she had nothing to gain by doing so. It's that kind of service that keeps folks coming back.
Finally in my possession, I hurriedly unwrapped the foil packets like it was Christmas morning. Inside the tightly-folded corn husk, the filling was moist and spicy. The tamales packed some heat, but it was definitely not unbearable (and I don't have a very high tolerance). You can't have a tamale if it's not at least a little hot, and these seemed just right. It was love at first bite, and we devoured a few more than we had intended! And to top it all off, you can get these babies for a buck each. That's Taco Bell prices for something I'd be willing to pay quite a bit more for! Shhh. Don't tell anyone I said that. I'll leave 'em a good tip. ;)
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Scrumptious Savannah
I've been a bit spoiled lately with two trips in two weeks. Just when I thought the food I had in Charleston would be hard to beat, I found that Savannah's fare provided some hearty competition. See below for my comments on the Olde Pink House, Cafe Ambrosia, Vinnie Van Go-Go's, and Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room.
Just as the name suggests, the restaurant is literally a big pink house. Built in 1771, it has a lot of history and is even rumored to be home to a spirit or two (and I don't mean the ones at the bar). It's supposedly haunted by the original owner, James Habersham, Jr., as well as a Revolutionary War veteran. I've also heard a couple of different tour guides reference a suicide incident occurring in the tavern and a ghost who haunts the women's restroom.
Tables are situated in various rooms on the "upstairs" level of the house. (Downstairs is actually more of a basement). I'd say this place wins the award for the most relaxing and comfortable environment, which I would expect from a fine-dining establishment. Soft lighting and a cozy feel with the sectioned-off rooms, as opposed to one large dining area, give it a homey, romantic feel.
I'd definitely recommend a reservation, as this is a popular place with tourists and locals alike. However, you can also eat in the downstairs tavern if you happen to snag a table. To the left and in front of the bar are a few tables adorned with white linens and candles as it is with the tables upstairs. On the other side of the room are big, soft couches and chairs and a pianist in the corner, who laughed and conversed with the crowd between songs. Everyone seemed to be thoroughly enjoying themselves. My fiance and I munched on some miniature biscuits and cornbread along with our wine as we waited for our table upstairs.
As an appetizer, we had the crab cake and fried green tomatoes. The crab was perfect--very meaty with a delicious sauce. The tangy tomatoes were thickly cut and extra juicy with just the right amount of light, crispy coating.
However, the entree was the real star here. I had almond-crusted tilapia topped with shrimp and herb butter over creamy, cheesy, stone-ground grits so good it could make ya want to slap yo' mama. The fish was tender with a crispy, flavorful crust. I wasn't sure what to expect from the almond coating, but it was savory with strong herb flavors in the crust and rich buttery glaze.
I'm having a hard time finding words to describe the awesomeness of the grits. However, The term "foodgasm" keeps coming to mind. I've been trying to figure out exactly what kind of cheese was used, and I'm thinking maybe mascarpone, but I could be totally wrong.
Whatever it was was totally different from anything I'd experienced. I immediately regretted not inquiring as to how this dish was prepared. Not that I would have gotten a recipe, but you never know. I guess this is one way to ensure I will be back.
Served on the side were crispy, fresh sugar snap peas and green beans, which added a nice contrast in texture as well as a pleasing splash of color to the plate. The presentation of the dish was top-notch. There's a lot to be said for the saying that you eat first with your eyes. I was practically drooling before the first bite.
Finally, I've got to rave a bit about the sweet potato. It wasn't served in the skin as I would have expected. Peeled and cut into perfect little slices, it was a bright, deep orange color, immensely flavorful, and topped with a caramelized pecan brown sugar glaze. The flavors were so distinct yet wonderfully complementary.
I'd sum it all up as charmingly elegant, from the atmosphere to the service, to the exquisite food. I'd be the first to tell you that "high-class" food is over-priced and that I'd be just as happy at any "mom and pop" diner, but I can honestly say that I felt our visit to the Olde Pink House was worth every penny.
A selection of pastries and quiches were on display, but I decided to go with one of the several croissant sandwich options on the menu for my lunch. My sandwich consisted of ham, ricotta cheese, and pesto. The flavor was subtle, yet tasty. On the side, I had a pasta salad containing al dente noodles, purple onions, a few chopped olives, tomatoes, red peppers, and a very light dressing.
Prices were comparable to Panera (there was one nearby), but I'd say Ambrosia wins hands-down with regards to taste/quality/freshness and ambiance.
I only wish I had also gotten to try a coffee drink, as the selection was extensive. Wine, beer, and cheese/fruit trays were also offered, so I imagine this would be a good place to go for a relaxing evening drink as well.
Vinne Van Go-Go's
If you want to save a few bucks on dinner, this place will fill you up for under 10 bucks. (My meal was $3.75.) Serving New York style pizza and massive calzones, Vinnie Van Go-Go's was packed with what seemed to be SCAD students (that's Savannah College of Art and Design), a group of hungry bikers, and a few tourist families. Nestled among a cluster of other restaurants in the downtown market area, this was by far the busiest place (second to Wild Wings) on a Monday night.
The building itself is tiny (most of the seating is outside on the patio), the menu is very basic, and the staff make no effort to be overly friendly or accommodating. There is absolutely nothing fancy about it, and I get the feeling that's the way folks like it! The slices are huge and the calzones are certainly enough to share. Fresh, filling, and satisfying food served up in a place with a lot more character than your average Pizza Hut. If I were a local, this would soon become one of my favorites.
Here's the menu for your perusal.
Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room
Mrs. Selma Wilkes took over this old boarding house in 1943. Since then, four generations have worked to feed it's hungry patrons. In her absence, it's still going strong today. The dining experience is unlike that of your typical restaurant, so before I get to the food let me take a minute to explain how it works. There are no reservations; it's first come, first served, and there is always a line. The doors open at 11:00 a.m. for the first group of diners (it's lunch only and closes at 2:00), but when we arrived at 10:55, the line was already well down the sidewalk.
The location was beautiful, with trees providing ample shade to the cobblestone street and unique shops and quaint residences lining the sidewalks. The wait for us was about an hour, but nobody seemed to mind, already knowing that what was to come would be well worth it. I grew eager as we began to watch the first group of diners exit the building rubbing their bellies with satisfied expressions on their faces. Comments such as, "I hope you skipped breakfast" and "better loosen your belt buckle" were spoken to those patiently awaiting their turn. It was almost like waiting in line for an amusement park roller coaster--the anticipation building each time the line moved forward.
Once inside, we were escorted to one of the several tables seating ten people located in different rooms of the house. Everyone sat down at the same time for a family style meal. Heaping bowls and platters of traditional southern fare were waiting on the table. Everyone ate together, got to know each other, and had a grand ole time. Then we cleaned up our own place setting (that's right, it's just like at mama's house) and paid (cash only) on our way out the door. There is no menu; you get what you're served that day. But let me tell you, I couldn't think of one more thing I could have even asked for.
If you're looking for an intimate, private setting, this is not the place to go. You're going to have to talk to strangers--at least if you want them to pass the food! My fiance and I really enjoyed getting to know our fellow diners. It's funny how little effort people make to talk to others that are in our actual physical presence on a daily basis (yet everyone was texting, Twittering, and Facebooking). We stood in line behind them for an hour without saying a word, but once seated around the table passing around the collard greens, the conversation flowed just like the sweet tea from the pitcher.
I'd also recommend that you get used to the idea of different foods touching and mixing together on your plate. (I know some people are funny about that.) Even though I tried to get only one spoonful of each dish, I quickly realized that there was no way I could try everything--at least not on the first go-around. Among the items I did sample were barbecued pork, fried chicken, butter beans, collard greens, creamed corn, macaroni and cheese, a buttermilk biscuit, mashed potatoes au gratin, rutabega, squash, black-eyed peas, baked beans, sweet potato souffle, and dressing (also known as "stuffing," but you'll never catch me calling it that). Among the items for which I didn't have room (on my plate or in my stomach) were jambalaya, succotash, beef stew and white rice, fresh cucumbers, green beans, cabbage, and cornbread. For dessert, little bowls of blueberry cobbler and banana pudding were passed around the table.
Everything was delicious and simply made the traditional southern way. The fried chicken was seasoned with nothing more than salt and pepper and cooked to perfection. Mrs. Wilkes herself once said, "If the Colonel made it so good, he'd be a general." Cooked with ham hock, salt pork, and/or bacon grease (the only way to prepare authentic southern food if you ask me), it's no wonder why the vegetables were so flavorful. The dressing was incredibly moist, and the sweet potato souffle was the sweetest I've ever tried; it just might have been my favorite dish. Also vying for the spot are the mashed potatoes, which where anything but bland with an abundance of cheddar cheese, along with onion, mayonnaise, and a little mustard and vinegar for a rich and tangy flavor. The barbecued pork, which was very tender and juicy, was a big winner with my fiance.
There is nothing mysterious about what goes into the food here. You can even purchase a cookbook with all of the recipes plus many more that aren't served. (I found on in a local bookstore, E. Shaver Books, which I also recommend you visit if you enjoy browsing charming local shops.) I think I'm going to have to recreate some of these dishes in the near future.
A gentleman at our table said as he finished up the last few morsels left on his plate, that the meal reminded him of the Sunday dinners he had growing up. I think that is what people are looking for in a place such as this. I have a feeling that Mrs. Wilkes would take that as a high compliment.
Check out the website for more information
Olde Pink House
Just as the name suggests, the restaurant is literally a big pink house. Built in 1771, it has a lot of history and is even rumored to be home to a spirit or two (and I don't mean the ones at the bar). It's supposedly haunted by the original owner, James Habersham, Jr., as well as a Revolutionary War veteran. I've also heard a couple of different tour guides reference a suicide incident occurring in the tavern and a ghost who haunts the women's restroom.
Tables are situated in various rooms on the "upstairs" level of the house. (Downstairs is actually more of a basement). I'd say this place wins the award for the most relaxing and comfortable environment, which I would expect from a fine-dining establishment. Soft lighting and a cozy feel with the sectioned-off rooms, as opposed to one large dining area, give it a homey, romantic feel.
I'd definitely recommend a reservation, as this is a popular place with tourists and locals alike. However, you can also eat in the downstairs tavern if you happen to snag a table. To the left and in front of the bar are a few tables adorned with white linens and candles as it is with the tables upstairs. On the other side of the room are big, soft couches and chairs and a pianist in the corner, who laughed and conversed with the crowd between songs. Everyone seemed to be thoroughly enjoying themselves. My fiance and I munched on some miniature biscuits and cornbread along with our wine as we waited for our table upstairs.
As an appetizer, we had the crab cake and fried green tomatoes. The crab was perfect--very meaty with a delicious sauce. The tangy tomatoes were thickly cut and extra juicy with just the right amount of light, crispy coating.
However, the entree was the real star here. I had almond-crusted tilapia topped with shrimp and herb butter over creamy, cheesy, stone-ground grits so good it could make ya want to slap yo' mama. The fish was tender with a crispy, flavorful crust. I wasn't sure what to expect from the almond coating, but it was savory with strong herb flavors in the crust and rich buttery glaze.
I'm having a hard time finding words to describe the awesomeness of the grits. However, The term "foodgasm" keeps coming to mind. I've been trying to figure out exactly what kind of cheese was used, and I'm thinking maybe mascarpone, but I could be totally wrong.
Whatever it was was totally different from anything I'd experienced. I immediately regretted not inquiring as to how this dish was prepared. Not that I would have gotten a recipe, but you never know. I guess this is one way to ensure I will be back.
Served on the side were crispy, fresh sugar snap peas and green beans, which added a nice contrast in texture as well as a pleasing splash of color to the plate. The presentation of the dish was top-notch. There's a lot to be said for the saying that you eat first with your eyes. I was practically drooling before the first bite.
Finally, I've got to rave a bit about the sweet potato. It wasn't served in the skin as I would have expected. Peeled and cut into perfect little slices, it was a bright, deep orange color, immensely flavorful, and topped with a caramelized pecan brown sugar glaze. The flavors were so distinct yet wonderfully complementary.
I'd sum it all up as charmingly elegant, from the atmosphere to the service, to the exquisite food. I'd be the first to tell you that "high-class" food is over-priced and that I'd be just as happy at any "mom and pop" diner, but I can honestly say that I felt our visit to the Olde Pink House was worth every penny.
Cafe Ambrosia
Located on a corner in the historic district, this little coffee shop seemed too inviting to pass up. Large windows on two walls allowed the sun to illuminate the room filled with tables and chairs as well as comfy couches. Interesting paintings adorned the walls, and music played softly in the background. I immediately noticed a different feel from your average Starbucks. Somehow it seemed much more relaxing and peaceful. Locals worked on laptops, sipping coffee. Tourists from Germany enjoyed their lunch at a table, and students studied on couches in a corner. Everyone spoke softly or even whispered, so as to maintain the pleasant environment.A selection of pastries and quiches were on display, but I decided to go with one of the several croissant sandwich options on the menu for my lunch. My sandwich consisted of ham, ricotta cheese, and pesto. The flavor was subtle, yet tasty. On the side, I had a pasta salad containing al dente noodles, purple onions, a few chopped olives, tomatoes, red peppers, and a very light dressing.
Prices were comparable to Panera (there was one nearby), but I'd say Ambrosia wins hands-down with regards to taste/quality/freshness and ambiance.
I only wish I had also gotten to try a coffee drink, as the selection was extensive. Wine, beer, and cheese/fruit trays were also offered, so I imagine this would be a good place to go for a relaxing evening drink as well.
Vinne Van Go-Go's
If you want to save a few bucks on dinner, this place will fill you up for under 10 bucks. (My meal was $3.75.) Serving New York style pizza and massive calzones, Vinnie Van Go-Go's was packed with what seemed to be SCAD students (that's Savannah College of Art and Design), a group of hungry bikers, and a few tourist families. Nestled among a cluster of other restaurants in the downtown market area, this was by far the busiest place (second to Wild Wings) on a Monday night.
The building itself is tiny (most of the seating is outside on the patio), the menu is very basic, and the staff make no effort to be overly friendly or accommodating. There is absolutely nothing fancy about it, and I get the feeling that's the way folks like it! The slices are huge and the calzones are certainly enough to share. Fresh, filling, and satisfying food served up in a place with a lot more character than your average Pizza Hut. If I were a local, this would soon become one of my favorites.
Here's the menu for your perusal.
Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room
Mrs. Selma Wilkes took over this old boarding house in 1943. Since then, four generations have worked to feed it's hungry patrons. In her absence, it's still going strong today. The dining experience is unlike that of your typical restaurant, so before I get to the food let me take a minute to explain how it works. There are no reservations; it's first come, first served, and there is always a line. The doors open at 11:00 a.m. for the first group of diners (it's lunch only and closes at 2:00), but when we arrived at 10:55, the line was already well down the sidewalk.
The location was beautiful, with trees providing ample shade to the cobblestone street and unique shops and quaint residences lining the sidewalks. The wait for us was about an hour, but nobody seemed to mind, already knowing that what was to come would be well worth it. I grew eager as we began to watch the first group of diners exit the building rubbing their bellies with satisfied expressions on their faces. Comments such as, "I hope you skipped breakfast" and "better loosen your belt buckle" were spoken to those patiently awaiting their turn. It was almost like waiting in line for an amusement park roller coaster--the anticipation building each time the line moved forward.
Once inside, we were escorted to one of the several tables seating ten people located in different rooms of the house. Everyone sat down at the same time for a family style meal. Heaping bowls and platters of traditional southern fare were waiting on the table. Everyone ate together, got to know each other, and had a grand ole time. Then we cleaned up our own place setting (that's right, it's just like at mama's house) and paid (cash only) on our way out the door. There is no menu; you get what you're served that day. But let me tell you, I couldn't think of one more thing I could have even asked for.
If you're looking for an intimate, private setting, this is not the place to go. You're going to have to talk to strangers--at least if you want them to pass the food! My fiance and I really enjoyed getting to know our fellow diners. It's funny how little effort people make to talk to others that are in our actual physical presence on a daily basis (yet everyone was texting, Twittering, and Facebooking). We stood in line behind them for an hour without saying a word, but once seated around the table passing around the collard greens, the conversation flowed just like the sweet tea from the pitcher.
I'd also recommend that you get used to the idea of different foods touching and mixing together on your plate. (I know some people are funny about that.) Even though I tried to get only one spoonful of each dish, I quickly realized that there was no way I could try everything--at least not on the first go-around. Among the items I did sample were barbecued pork, fried chicken, butter beans, collard greens, creamed corn, macaroni and cheese, a buttermilk biscuit, mashed potatoes au gratin, rutabega, squash, black-eyed peas, baked beans, sweet potato souffle, and dressing (also known as "stuffing," but you'll never catch me calling it that). Among the items for which I didn't have room (on my plate or in my stomach) were jambalaya, succotash, beef stew and white rice, fresh cucumbers, green beans, cabbage, and cornbread. For dessert, little bowls of blueberry cobbler and banana pudding were passed around the table.
Everything was delicious and simply made the traditional southern way. The fried chicken was seasoned with nothing more than salt and pepper and cooked to perfection. Mrs. Wilkes herself once said, "If the Colonel made it so good, he'd be a general." Cooked with ham hock, salt pork, and/or bacon grease (the only way to prepare authentic southern food if you ask me), it's no wonder why the vegetables were so flavorful. The dressing was incredibly moist, and the sweet potato souffle was the sweetest I've ever tried; it just might have been my favorite dish. Also vying for the spot are the mashed potatoes, which where anything but bland with an abundance of cheddar cheese, along with onion, mayonnaise, and a little mustard and vinegar for a rich and tangy flavor. The barbecued pork, which was very tender and juicy, was a big winner with my fiance.
There is nothing mysterious about what goes into the food here. You can even purchase a cookbook with all of the recipes plus many more that aren't served. (I found on in a local bookstore, E. Shaver Books, which I also recommend you visit if you enjoy browsing charming local shops.) I think I'm going to have to recreate some of these dishes in the near future.
A gentleman at our table said as he finished up the last few morsels left on his plate, that the meal reminded him of the Sunday dinners he had growing up. I think that is what people are looking for in a place such as this. I have a feeling that Mrs. Wilkes would take that as a high compliment.
Check out the website for more information
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Adventures in Charleston, SC
I’m a southern girl, and I also happen to live in the South. (Yes, I do think there is a distinction, but that's for another blog.) Needless to say, I have a soft spot in my heart (and belly) for the region’s cuisine. I can’t go too long before I get a hankerin’ for some good down-home cookin’. While there are some pretty good franchises out there, I am especially fond of the places with a little history. For this reason, Jestine’s Kitchen was a priority destination on my recent Charleston visit. My friend and traveling companion and I also dined at Hyman’s Seafood and Hominy Grill.
Jestine’s Kitchen
When we arrived for dinner at about 9:00 p.m. (one half hour before closing), there was still a line out the door. I immediately had a good feeling about what was to come. Once we got inside, I enjoyed looking at the numerous pictures and articles adorning the walls of the famed restaurant. Among the decorations are photos of Jestine Matthews, who is not the owner (that would be Dana Berlin), but rather the African American woman who cared for Dana as a child. Many of the dishes served are made from Jestine’s original recipes. Now that’s the kind of history I’m talking about!
The service was fabulous. The food arrived promptly, and our waitress was incredibly friendly. The overall atmosphere was cozy and pleasant. After much deliberation about what to order, I finally settled on the meatloaf. When my dish arrived, I was surprised to find neither of the two possibilities I had expected. There was no thick brown gravy OR pasty tomato sauce. The slice of loaf was instead coated with just a thin and spicy glaze. It was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It held together well, and was packed with flavor. It was like no meatloaf I’ve ever had, and I dare say it might even be the best.
As complements to the main dish, I chose okra gumbo and macaroni and cheese. The “gumbo” consisted of what looked like okra, tomatoes, and corn. If you’re expecting true gumbo (more like a soup), then you might be disappointed. However, I found the okra to be fresh, well-seasoned and delicious. I consider myself somewhat of a mac and cheese connoisseur and like to give it a try whenever I’m in any sort of “meat and three” establishment. It is usually such a simple dish, but varies widely depending on how it’s made. Subtle changes can make all the difference! There is no question that I prefer the baked variety, which is what was served at Jestine’s. Not too runny or sticky, the cheese stuck in clumps to the soft noodles. I loved the texture, but the flavor was a bit milder than some varieties. Don’t get me wrong, it was GOOD, and I finished every last bite. However, a sharper cheddar or a little bit more cheese and seasoning would have taken it to the next level.
My friend had the blue plate special of the day—the sweet chicken with butter beans. The glaze was just like you’d expect—sweet and sticky, and it covered the chicken and the large beans. Underneath all that was a bed of white rice. The three pieces of dark-meat chicken were practically falling apart, they were so tender. The beans were a perfect compliment, and the whole thing just seemed to melt in your mouth. I know at least one other patron shared my opinion, as the guest at the next table was literally swooning over her plate after one bite!
Ladies and gentleman, this is true comfort food at an incredible value. You’re guaranteed to leave here full and happy!
Hyman's Seafood
I couldn’t visit Charleston without having at least one seafood meal. I figured I had better check out Hyman's, seeing as how it's one of the best known restaurants in the city and had been recommended to me by several people. It seemed like every other visitor had the same idea for lunch; the place was packed with tourists. The staff was efficient, however, and the wait wasn’t too long. Right away we were given a bowl of salty boiled peanuts. That was all it took to win me over! After munching on those for a while and exploring the extensive menu, my friend and I decided to start with a crab cake as an appetizer, followed by shrimp and grits. The crab cake was nothing less than amazing. Not heavily breaded at all, it was nearly all crab (and little cake). Drizzled with a tangy pink sauce and topped with crispy onion straws, the flavors and textures combined perfectly and left me longing for more. I know there are different ways to make shrimp and grits, but I have to say that I prefer Hyman's style over the spicy gravy with sausage variety. With no meat (other than shrimp) it was simple, yet delicious. Six fat shrimp were served atop a bowl of creamy grits and topped with a Parmesan cheese sauce. Very rich and satisfying, a half portion (my friend and I shared) served with toasty garlic bread filled me up. I almost wanted to lick the bowl. I think that about says it all.
Hominy Grill
Apparently known for its grits (thus the name), Hominy Grill was our choice for breakfast. My friend and I both had omelets, made with fresh, locally-grown ingredients. Yet another place where you can really get a lot for your dollar, here you can choose as many ingredients as you like at no extra charge. I kept it si
mple with just cheese, mushrooms, and tomatoes. I immediately noticed how bright and fresh the tomatoes were. A mild, white cheese was used (again, I prefer a sharper flavor), but the overall taste was quite pleasing. The texture of the grits was wonderfully thick and creamy. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been served grainy, runny “grit soup” or dried-out lumps! The only complaint I might have is that they were a bit too salty for my liking. The biscuit had a subtle, yet distinct flavor that I couldn’t quite identify. Not too salty, yet not sweet, it was a unique and yummy taste. The texture was more dense and crumbly than fluffy. I liked it best topped with the restaurant’s delightful raspberry jam. You won’t find those little single-serving jelly globs here. This stuff is fresh and served from a cute little pot placed on each table. Pure and light, not heavy or greasy, it was the perfect way to fuel up for a morning of shopping downtown.
Jestine’s Kitchen
When we arrived for dinner at about 9:00 p.m. (one half hour before closing), there was still a line out the door. I immediately had a good feeling about what was to come. Once we got inside, I enjoyed looking at the numerous pictures and articles adorning the walls of the famed restaurant. Among the decorations are photos of Jestine Matthews, who is not the owner (that would be Dana Berlin), but rather the African American woman who cared for Dana as a child. Many of the dishes served are made from Jestine’s original recipes. Now that’s the kind of history I’m talking about!
The service was fabulous. The food arrived promptly, and our waitress was incredibly friendly. The overall atmosphere was cozy and pleasant. After much deliberation about what to order, I finally settled on the meatloaf. When my dish arrived, I was surprised to find neither of the two possibilities I had expected. There was no thick brown gravy OR pasty tomato sauce. The slice of loaf was instead coated with just a thin and spicy glaze. It was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It held together well, and was packed with flavor. It was like no meatloaf I’ve ever had, and I dare say it might even be the best.
As complements to the main dish, I chose okra gumbo and macaroni and cheese. The “gumbo” consisted of what looked like okra, tomatoes, and corn. If you’re expecting true gumbo (more like a soup), then you might be disappointed. However, I found the okra to be fresh, well-seasoned and delicious. I consider myself somewhat of a mac and cheese connoisseur and like to give it a try whenever I’m in any sort of “meat and three” establishment. It is usually such a simple dish, but varies widely depending on how it’s made. Subtle changes can make all the difference! There is no question that I prefer the baked variety, which is what was served at Jestine’s. Not too runny or sticky, the cheese stuck in clumps to the soft noodles. I loved the texture, but the flavor was a bit milder than some varieties. Don’t get me wrong, it was GOOD, and I finished every last bite. However, a sharper cheddar or a little bit more cheese and seasoning would have taken it to the next level.
My friend had the blue plate special of the day—the sweet chicken with butter beans. The glaze was just like you’d expect—sweet and sticky, and it covered the chicken and the large beans. Underneath all that was a bed of white rice. The three pieces of dark-meat chicken were practically falling apart, they were so tender. The beans were a perfect compliment, and the whole thing just seemed to melt in your mouth. I know at least one other patron shared my opinion, as the guest at the next table was literally swooning over her plate after one bite!
Ladies and gentleman, this is true comfort food at an incredible value. You’re guaranteed to leave here full and happy!
Hyman's Seafood
I couldn’t visit Charleston without having at least one seafood meal. I figured I had better check out Hyman's, seeing as how it's one of the best known restaurants in the city and had been recommended to me by several people. It seemed like every other visitor had the same idea for lunch; the place was packed with tourists. The staff was efficient, however, and the wait wasn’t too long. Right away we were given a bowl of salty boiled peanuts. That was all it took to win me over! After munching on those for a while and exploring the extensive menu, my friend and I decided to start with a crab cake as an appetizer, followed by shrimp and grits. The crab cake was nothing less than amazing. Not heavily breaded at all, it was nearly all crab (and little cake). Drizzled with a tangy pink sauce and topped with crispy onion straws, the flavors and textures combined perfectly and left me longing for more. I know there are different ways to make shrimp and grits, but I have to say that I prefer Hyman's style over the spicy gravy with sausage variety. With no meat (other than shrimp) it was simple, yet delicious. Six fat shrimp were served atop a bowl of creamy grits and topped with a Parmesan cheese sauce. Very rich and satisfying, a half portion (my friend and I shared) served with toasty garlic bread filled me up. I almost wanted to lick the bowl. I think that about says it all.
Hominy Grill
Apparently known for its grits (thus the name), Hominy Grill was our choice for breakfast. My friend and I both had omelets, made with fresh, locally-grown ingredients. Yet another place where you can really get a lot for your dollar, here you can choose as many ingredients as you like at no extra charge. I kept it si
mple with just cheese, mushrooms, and tomatoes. I immediately noticed how bright and fresh the tomatoes were. A mild, white cheese was used (again, I prefer a sharper flavor), but the overall taste was quite pleasing. The texture of the grits was wonderfully thick and creamy. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been served grainy, runny “grit soup” or dried-out lumps! The only complaint I might have is that they were a bit too salty for my liking. The biscuit had a subtle, yet distinct flavor that I couldn’t quite identify. Not too salty, yet not sweet, it was a unique and yummy taste. The texture was more dense and crumbly than fluffy. I liked it best topped with the restaurant’s delightful raspberry jam. You won’t find those little single-serving jelly globs here. This stuff is fresh and served from a cute little pot placed on each table. Pure and light, not heavy or greasy, it was the perfect way to fuel up for a morning of shopping downtown.
Ready, set, eat!
A food lover for as long as I can remember, I have always enjoyed trying new and different things. My sense of adventure regarding dining out has only grown over time. I’ll pretty much try anything once, but like most folks, there will always be some types of food that I just prefer over others. My comments on restaurants or specific dishes served are not meant to be objective reviews, but are simply my opinion of my overall dining experience and satisfaction. You may agree, and you may not, but I encourage all of you readers out there to go and sample these places yourself and let me know what you think! I’m always looking for good recommendations, so holler if you know of a place I need to go check out!
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