The Captain's Table Restaurant at the Coutyard Marriott must be one of Ocean City's best kept dining secrets, http://www.captainstableoc.com/. The service and food were absolutely fabulous! We put in a full day of sight seeing in inclement weather - nor'easter blew through and we were in the middle of it. We went to the Salisbury Zoo, Assateague Island, and Ocean Downs Casino - whew! We deserved a delicious meal.
If you're looking for a special treat, this is the place for a terrific evening out. With our drinks, our server brought out a bread basket with warm rolls and a small butter bowl. Hubby had the wedge salad and I enjoyed a Ceasar salad for starters. Hubby's broiled scallops were huge and delicious (yes, I scarfed one) swimming in butter. My crab cakes were cooked to perfection and I shared with hubby. Our sides were yummy - hubby had his usual baked potato and I enjoyed smoked salmon mashed potatoes.
The menu was a la carte with salads $8 to $9. Entrees ranged from $25 to $30 for seafood, $25 to $35 for beef, and $17 to $28 for poultry, lamb, and other. We decided on seafood for this meal because we planned to have a special steak dinner Sunday night.
The restaurant is on the second or third floor of the hotel, not right on the boardwalk. It's plush and you immediately know that you're in a place where they care about your dining experience. If you have a trip to Ocean City in your future, this restaurant is a nice splurge.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
The Acorn Market, 805 E Main Street, Salisbury, MD
Have you ever been to The Country House - a terrific shop that reminds me of a cross between The Apple Basket and Cecil's Country Store - you have to walk through it first one way and then the other because you will miss things if you only go through one way. Anyway, before or after your shopping spree, walk across the parking lot and indulge at the Acorn Market, http://www.theacornmarket.com/.
There is nothing on the menu that reaches $7.00 - okay, $6.99 tops. On the way to Ocean City a couple of weeks ago, hubby and I stopped at this place on the recommendation of a close friend. We had a late breakfast in Prince Frederick at a chain restaurant (I won't even comment) so we weren't very hungry but wanted to try the Acorn. We split a Pilgrim sandwich - roast turkey, cranberry sauce, lettuce on homemade stuffing bread. You would not believe the taste - it was fabulous - Thanksgiving in a sandwich. I knew hubby would want chips and said as much to the server at the counter (you place your order, pay for it, take a seat, and they bring it to you when ready). He asked what I would prefer and I told him grapes sounded good. He said that we could have both. Would you believe ... we each got our own serving tray with half a sandwich, hubby got chips and I got a huge bunch of luscious purple grapes, and we each had coffee and the bill was less than $10?!?!?!?!?!?! Gosh I wish this place were closer to where I live; I'd be there at least once a week.
You can choose to eat in the well decorated dining area or on the porch; we enjoyed the porch on the last gorgeous day before the nor'easter blew through. The Acorn Market has a limited, specialized, homemade menu of items including freshly baked goodies. Hubby and I eyed the bakery cabinet when we were ordering lunch and discussed getting something to take with us for dessert for our first night in Ocean City. While we were having lunch on the porch, I heard a customer who came in shortly after us ask the server to pack up everything in the bakery cabinet. Is that a testament to how delicious those homemade goodies were - somebody bought out the entire stock for the day. The server said that they didn't even have a spare anything sweet in the kitchen. He who hesitates is lost! Next time I won't hesitate.
There is nothing on the menu that reaches $7.00 - okay, $6.99 tops. On the way to Ocean City a couple of weeks ago, hubby and I stopped at this place on the recommendation of a close friend. We had a late breakfast in Prince Frederick at a chain restaurant (I won't even comment) so we weren't very hungry but wanted to try the Acorn. We split a Pilgrim sandwich - roast turkey, cranberry sauce, lettuce on homemade stuffing bread. You would not believe the taste - it was fabulous - Thanksgiving in a sandwich. I knew hubby would want chips and said as much to the server at the counter (you place your order, pay for it, take a seat, and they bring it to you when ready). He asked what I would prefer and I told him grapes sounded good. He said that we could have both. Would you believe ... we each got our own serving tray with half a sandwich, hubby got chips and I got a huge bunch of luscious purple grapes, and we each had coffee and the bill was less than $10?!?!?!?!?!?! Gosh I wish this place were closer to where I live; I'd be there at least once a week.
You can choose to eat in the well decorated dining area or on the porch; we enjoyed the porch on the last gorgeous day before the nor'easter blew through. The Acorn Market has a limited, specialized, homemade menu of items including freshly baked goodies. Hubby and I eyed the bakery cabinet when we were ordering lunch and discussed getting something to take with us for dessert for our first night in Ocean City. While we were having lunch on the porch, I heard a customer who came in shortly after us ask the server to pack up everything in the bakery cabinet. Is that a testament to how delicious those homemade goodies were - somebody bought out the entire stock for the day. The server said that they didn't even have a spare anything sweet in the kitchen. He who hesitates is lost! Next time I won't hesitate.
Sacred Heart Church dinner, 23080 Maddox Road, Bushwood, MD
What a glorious day for a church dinner on October 23rd! Making the rounds at church dinners has become a Southern Maryland sport. If you can only hit one fall dinner in 2012, this is the one (assuming it will be as good next year as it was in 2011).
First, you pay for your dinner and are then are seated at a long rectangular table with lots of other folks. A server takes your drink order - iced tea or coffee. You are then invited to go through the buffet line. Dinner is buffet style so everything you get is HOT (if it's supposed to be hot). The oysters were incredibly delicious as were the other items on the buffet - roast turkey with dressing, ham, parsley potatoes, candied sweet potatoes, green beans, cole slaw. Dinner rolls, beets, and a few other items are on the table so you help yourself during dinner. If you want seconds of anything, there are youngsters on standby to bring you smaller plates of whatever specialty you request. I had more oysters and slaw - the young may brought be close to a dozen oysters and a small bowl of slaw. Several folks at our table went back through the buffet line themselves - guess they wanted more of everything. Nobody raised an eyebrow and they thoroughly enjoyed their meal.
There were a couple of things about the buffet that I especially appreciated:
(1) As stated above, the food that's supposed to be hot was hot. (2) There were serving spoons or forks for each dish. (Sometimes at those family style dinners there aren't enough serving spoons and people use the forks they've been eating with to serve themselves more food from the community platter. I have issued with that.)
Put this dinner on your list. I will keep a watchful eye on my church bulletin and the local newspaper for announcement of this dinner. It is #1!
First, you pay for your dinner and are then are seated at a long rectangular table with lots of other folks. A server takes your drink order - iced tea or coffee. You are then invited to go through the buffet line. Dinner is buffet style so everything you get is HOT (if it's supposed to be hot). The oysters were incredibly delicious as were the other items on the buffet - roast turkey with dressing, ham, parsley potatoes, candied sweet potatoes, green beans, cole slaw. Dinner rolls, beets, and a few other items are on the table so you help yourself during dinner. If you want seconds of anything, there are youngsters on standby to bring you smaller plates of whatever specialty you request. I had more oysters and slaw - the young may brought be close to a dozen oysters and a small bowl of slaw. Several folks at our table went back through the buffet line themselves - guess they wanted more of everything. Nobody raised an eyebrow and they thoroughly enjoyed their meal.
There were a couple of things about the buffet that I especially appreciated:
(1) As stated above, the food that's supposed to be hot was hot. (2) There were serving spoons or forks for each dish. (Sometimes at those family style dinners there aren't enough serving spoons and people use the forks they've been eating with to serve themselves more food from the community platter. I have issued with that.)
Put this dinner on your list. I will keep a watchful eye on my church bulletin and the local newspaper for announcement of this dinner. It is #1!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
St. George's Catholic Church Oyster Dinner, St. George's Church Rd, Valley Lee, MD 20692
Church dinners in Southern Maryland are a great way to get your fill of delicious food. Some folks make the rounds during dinner season - crab cake dinners in the summer and oyster dinners in the fall. At many of these dinners, the food is served family style; at some, buffet style. I hit the oyster dinner at St. George's today (family style) and had my first fried oysters of the season.
Today's dinner included fried oysters a plenty, stuffed ham, and roast turkey breast. Sides included parsley potatoes, green beans, pickled beets, applesauce (cinnamon and sugar), dill pickles, dinner rolls. Once things got underway, our servers kept the hot oysters coming and they were delicious (although not as good as my dad's oysters - his are well-seasoned and crispy, not at all greasy). I know things are busy in the kitchen during these dinners, but fried oysters really need to be drained on paper towels or even paper bags for just a few seconds to get rid of excess oil before they are served. Additionally, the serving bowls need to occasionally be wiped out between refills to absorb excess oil. Guess I can't complain too much as it's been years since I worked at one of these events.
The pickles were a real disappointment. Mrs. Barnes, a black woman in her 80s, has made bread and butter pickles for the church dinners at St. George's for years. Honestly, I can sit there and eat beets, her home-made pickles, and oysters and forget about the other food. I knew by the look that the pickles at today's dinner were not hers but I put several on my plate anyway. I ate one - it was awful! I must ask her for a jar of pickles as a special treat. If I'm successful in acquiring a jar, I will not be sharing them. Oh no!
I'm not much for plastic ware - it you're going to use it, get the good stuff. Hubby actually broke his fork today. Good thing he was about finished with his dinner. Kudos to the servers - many parish members, students who will be confirmed in the near future, and volunteers from the Paul Hall Center.
I purchased an applesauce cake from the baked goods table and sent it home with my dad. Hope it was good!
Today's dinner included fried oysters a plenty, stuffed ham, and roast turkey breast. Sides included parsley potatoes, green beans, pickled beets, applesauce (cinnamon and sugar), dill pickles, dinner rolls. Once things got underway, our servers kept the hot oysters coming and they were delicious (although not as good as my dad's oysters - his are well-seasoned and crispy, not at all greasy). I know things are busy in the kitchen during these dinners, but fried oysters really need to be drained on paper towels or even paper bags for just a few seconds to get rid of excess oil before they are served. Additionally, the serving bowls need to occasionally be wiped out between refills to absorb excess oil. Guess I can't complain too much as it's been years since I worked at one of these events.
The pickles were a real disappointment. Mrs. Barnes, a black woman in her 80s, has made bread and butter pickles for the church dinners at St. George's for years. Honestly, I can sit there and eat beets, her home-made pickles, and oysters and forget about the other food. I knew by the look that the pickles at today's dinner were not hers but I put several on my plate anyway. I ate one - it was awful! I must ask her for a jar of pickles as a special treat. If I'm successful in acquiring a jar, I will not be sharing them. Oh no!
I'm not much for plastic ware - it you're going to use it, get the good stuff. Hubby actually broke his fork today. Good thing he was about finished with his dinner. Kudos to the servers - many parish members, students who will be confirmed in the near future, and volunteers from the Paul Hall Center.
I purchased an applesauce cake from the baked goods table and sent it home with my dad. Hope it was good!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Di Giovanni's Restaurant, 14556 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons, MD
It's been a couple of years since our last visit to Di Giovanni's Italian Restaurant. I wanted some place special to celebrate my daughter's completion of courses required for her graduate degree! The restaurant is open Tuesay through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. for breakfast and unti 8:00 p.m. for dinner. Chef-owner Jack Batten buys local and updates the restaurant menu frequently. The Chef also offers cooking classes, 4-or-5 course meals demonstrated (and participatory if you're so inclined) and served for your dining pleasure, along with a recipe booklet and his special tips. There's one coming up on 18 October called "Mother Sauces" for $40 and includes tomato, brown, bechamel, volute, and hollandaise - make the sauces and learn what to do with them. Visit http://www.digiovannisrestaurant.com/.
I'm sure Solomons was crowded during the Patuxent River Appreciation Days celebration this weekend but our timing was perfect arriving around 6:00 p.m. on Sunday evening with only a few tables taken. We were seated promptly in the dining room and enjoyed the water view overlooking the deck dining area while our server fetched our wine and beer. The menu changes every few days based on the freshest seafood and produce available. There were 8-to-10 appetizers from shrimp, to baked brie, to Oysters Chesapeake (which we tried - half dozen for only $6). There were also soup and salad options and entrees ranged in price from $12-to-$20 with several pasta options, crab cakes, and steak. Sandwiches with a side of fries could also be ordered any time of day and prices were very reasonable.
Fragrant, hot bread arrived at our table shortly after the drinks. There were two olive oil options at the table, one rosemary infused which was my choice. Bread - without asking (+); hubby asked for more bread when the entrees arrived and our server comlied with the request within minutes (++). The Oysters Chesapeake were gorgeous to behold and tasty to eat. Freshly shucked oysters on the half shell were topped with bread dressing, crab, and corn and served piping hot. There were three large lemon wedges on the serving plate and the dish was sprinkled with parsley. I had manicotti, two large pasta rounds stuffed with cheese and topped with homemade sauce that was excellent. Hubby had crab cakes and said they were the best he's had in a while - he likes them with some breading and seasoning, not a fan of a cake of lump crab meat heated and called a crab cake. The celebratory girl was thinking of shrimp scampi but since she's allergic to shrimp asked if the chef could make a clam sauce (which wasn't on the menu) instead. Our server asked and the chef seemed happy to comply. The dish of pasta with butter/garlic sauce was surrounded by clams in the shell - lots of them! Our graduate girl's friend ordered the Chicken Chesapeake sandwich - grilled chicken with crab and cheese on a sub roll. Before I had a chance to take a good look at it, he had polished off all but the last bite and said that it was good. The fries were thick and golden. Di Giovanni's was as good as I remembered; consistency - it's a good thing!
Our server apologized for being short staffed Sunday evening. As more diners entered, it became clear that he could not manage on his own and the chef pitched in. It was quite nice to have the chef working the dining area as well as the kitchen. Our server was very polite and hustled to make sure we were satisfied - kudos (+). We were there as night set in and dim wall lights were turned on to illuminate the dining room. The only drawback to the entire evening were the slamming doors - the main entrance to the restaurant and the doors to the deck. Honestly, if I had a screw driver I would have taken a stab at adjusting them.
I'm sure Solomons was crowded during the Patuxent River Appreciation Days celebration this weekend but our timing was perfect arriving around 6:00 p.m. on Sunday evening with only a few tables taken. We were seated promptly in the dining room and enjoyed the water view overlooking the deck dining area while our server fetched our wine and beer. The menu changes every few days based on the freshest seafood and produce available. There were 8-to-10 appetizers from shrimp, to baked brie, to Oysters Chesapeake (which we tried - half dozen for only $6). There were also soup and salad options and entrees ranged in price from $12-to-$20 with several pasta options, crab cakes, and steak. Sandwiches with a side of fries could also be ordered any time of day and prices were very reasonable.
Fragrant, hot bread arrived at our table shortly after the drinks. There were two olive oil options at the table, one rosemary infused which was my choice. Bread - without asking (+); hubby asked for more bread when the entrees arrived and our server comlied with the request within minutes (++). The Oysters Chesapeake were gorgeous to behold and tasty to eat. Freshly shucked oysters on the half shell were topped with bread dressing, crab, and corn and served piping hot. There were three large lemon wedges on the serving plate and the dish was sprinkled with parsley. I had manicotti, two large pasta rounds stuffed with cheese and topped with homemade sauce that was excellent. Hubby had crab cakes and said they were the best he's had in a while - he likes them with some breading and seasoning, not a fan of a cake of lump crab meat heated and called a crab cake. The celebratory girl was thinking of shrimp scampi but since she's allergic to shrimp asked if the chef could make a clam sauce (which wasn't on the menu) instead. Our server asked and the chef seemed happy to comply. The dish of pasta with butter/garlic sauce was surrounded by clams in the shell - lots of them! Our graduate girl's friend ordered the Chicken Chesapeake sandwich - grilled chicken with crab and cheese on a sub roll. Before I had a chance to take a good look at it, he had polished off all but the last bite and said that it was good. The fries were thick and golden. Di Giovanni's was as good as I remembered; consistency - it's a good thing!
Our server apologized for being short staffed Sunday evening. As more diners entered, it became clear that he could not manage on his own and the chef pitched in. It was quite nice to have the chef working the dining area as well as the kitchen. Our server was very polite and hustled to make sure we were satisfied - kudos (+). We were there as night set in and dim wall lights were turned on to illuminate the dining room. The only drawback to the entire evening were the slamming doors - the main entrance to the restaurant and the doors to the deck. Honestly, if I had a screw driver I would have taken a stab at adjusting them.
Cafe des Artistes, 41655 Fenwick St, Leonardtown, MD
Cafe des Artistes is one of my all-time favorite restaurants and has been ever since Chef Loic Jaffres and wife Karleen opened the upscale bistro more than 10 years ago. It's the perfect place to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, to take out-of-town guests for a special treat, or just to relax and enjoy a good meal. The Cafe is part of "buy local" - Southern Maryland chefs purchasing produce from local farms and orienting their menu to show off what's in season. The Cafe's menu is available at http://cafedesartistes.ws/. There's always a special that's well worth the adventure. The restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.; dinner Tuesday through Saturday 5:00 until 9:00 p.m.; and for Sunday brunch and dinner 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Outside dining is available and they have an area heater that makes it pleasant even as the evening turns chilly.
Appetizers include foie gras, escargots, crab dip, shrimp, pate, cheese plate, and more ranging in price from $9.50 to $16.00. Soup is always french onion and soup of the day. The french onion is divine but I've become more adventurous in my old(er) age and have recently gone for the soup of the day which has never disappointed and usually includes local ingredients. You have a choice of house or Ceasar salad (always my favorite) and now you can make either a meal by topping with the protein of your choice: chicken breast, jumbo lump crab, seared tuna, salmon, or NY strip ($12-to-$18 depending upon your combo). Dinner entrees ($20-to-$28) satisfy even the most discriminating taste and include dishes of steak, crab, lamb, veal, pork, shrimp, lobster, scallops, salmon, tuna, as well as vegetarian options of portobello mushroom in pastry and eggplant napoleon. Seriously, is there anything else that you can think to include?! The dessert menu also includes tasty treats like profiteroles, apple tarts, creme brule, and limoncello at an average $6 cost.
By the way, the Cafe offers local wines and always has live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Randy Richie on the piano makes for very enjoyable dining.
We stopped by the Cafe at 8:30 Friday evening following First Friday in Leonardtown. Some members of our group dined a little earlier but everyone moved inside when we gathered following the music events. The Cafe staff quickly seated us at a round table large enough to accommodate eight of us. Everyone ordered drinks, four of us ordered late dinners. The Cafe uses fabric table cloths so the condensation on my water glass had a place to go (+). The carrot ginger soup was absolutely fabulous - I could have eaten two or three bowls of it and been in a very happy place - it was a thick puree and very hearty. I also had a classic Ceasar salad; who doesn't like the taste of anchovies? Given the late hour, I did not want to overdo it with a heavy meal (so I'll have to return soon). Hubby had the prime rib and it was strange that he didn't clean his plate. He said it was a little fatty and that can't be hidden by the aromatic peppercorn sauce. The warm bread with plenty of butter was delicious - bread without asking (+). I was disappointed not to have silverware available when the soup was served (-). Actually, I think my mouth dropped open in disbelief ... one of my favorite restaurants and I've always commented on the top notch service. Hopefully this was just an off night. Hubby says we arrived at 8:30, toward the end of the evening. Doesn't matter to me - we deserve the same fine food and wonderful service at those who arrived at 5:30, or 6:30, or 7:30.
One of my very favorite dishes at the Cafe is the seared ahi tuna. Take half of it home and put it in the frig. Cut it into cubes a day or two later and serve it as an appetizer with Pampered Chef's Ginger Wasabi sauce. This is A++.
Appetizers include foie gras, escargots, crab dip, shrimp, pate, cheese plate, and more ranging in price from $9.50 to $16.00. Soup is always french onion and soup of the day. The french onion is divine but I've become more adventurous in my old(er) age and have recently gone for the soup of the day which has never disappointed and usually includes local ingredients. You have a choice of house or Ceasar salad (always my favorite) and now you can make either a meal by topping with the protein of your choice: chicken breast, jumbo lump crab, seared tuna, salmon, or NY strip ($12-to-$18 depending upon your combo). Dinner entrees ($20-to-$28) satisfy even the most discriminating taste and include dishes of steak, crab, lamb, veal, pork, shrimp, lobster, scallops, salmon, tuna, as well as vegetarian options of portobello mushroom in pastry and eggplant napoleon. Seriously, is there anything else that you can think to include?! The dessert menu also includes tasty treats like profiteroles, apple tarts, creme brule, and limoncello at an average $6 cost.
By the way, the Cafe offers local wines and always has live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Randy Richie on the piano makes for very enjoyable dining.
We stopped by the Cafe at 8:30 Friday evening following First Friday in Leonardtown. Some members of our group dined a little earlier but everyone moved inside when we gathered following the music events. The Cafe staff quickly seated us at a round table large enough to accommodate eight of us. Everyone ordered drinks, four of us ordered late dinners. The Cafe uses fabric table cloths so the condensation on my water glass had a place to go (+). The carrot ginger soup was absolutely fabulous - I could have eaten two or three bowls of it and been in a very happy place - it was a thick puree and very hearty. I also had a classic Ceasar salad; who doesn't like the taste of anchovies? Given the late hour, I did not want to overdo it with a heavy meal (so I'll have to return soon). Hubby had the prime rib and it was strange that he didn't clean his plate. He said it was a little fatty and that can't be hidden by the aromatic peppercorn sauce. The warm bread with plenty of butter was delicious - bread without asking (+). I was disappointed not to have silverware available when the soup was served (-). Actually, I think my mouth dropped open in disbelief ... one of my favorite restaurants and I've always commented on the top notch service. Hopefully this was just an off night. Hubby says we arrived at 8:30, toward the end of the evening. Doesn't matter to me - we deserve the same fine food and wonderful service at those who arrived at 5:30, or 6:30, or 7:30.
One of my very favorite dishes at the Cafe is the seared ahi tuna. Take half of it home and put it in the frig. Cut it into cubes a day or two later and serve it as an appetizer with Pampered Chef's Ginger Wasabi sauce. This is A++.
Charlie's Deli, 19661 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, MD
The talk at work for several months has been about the food at Charlie's Deli (formerly Peck's Tavern), about 3 miles south of Hermanville Road on the rt 235 side of St. Mary's County. I finally got the chance to have lunch there this week - 12 diners total. I was delighted by the updated look and freshness of the place. We arrived at 11:15 a.m. with reservations for our group so we ate in the "back room" which was delightful (spacious and clean). The deli has no liquor license and the bar has been replaced by an ice cream counter (Hershey's hand dipped ice cream as well as ice cream cakes available). The place is open every day from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The deli boasts cold and hot sandwiches at lunch time and includes sides of baked beans, potato salad, macaroni/tuna salad, pasta salad, cole slaw, french fries, or chips. Cold deli sandwiches of roast beef, corned beef, turkey, tuna, slides ham, chicken salad, egg salad, blt, and grilled chicken are piled high and accompanied by cheeses, dressings, lettuce, tomato, and onion on a variety of breads. Hot sandwich specialities include buffalo chicken, steak and cheese, french dip, cordon bleu, tuna melt, pastrami, and more. Angus burgers can be adorned with cheese, chili, mushrooms, and bacon. Salad plates of tuna, chicken, taco, and plain garden are also options. Baskets of wings, shrimp, fish and chips, and chicken tenders are also tempting. Every single item on the lunch menu is less than $10!!!
Folks around me had a variety of sandwiches and all commented on how good the food was. One member of our group is a regular at Charlie's (at least once or twice a week) and said the potato salad is the best he's ever had. He had a grilled Reuben sandwich and said that he orders the Reuben every other week - keeps going back to a favorite but trys new things in between. I had the Taco Salad - tortilla chips, cheddar cheese, black olives, hot peppers, lettuce, tomato, onion, and homemade chili. Salsa and sour cream were served on the side. The Taco Salad was more than I could eat so toward the end of the meal, I picked out the parts that I liked the best - the chili, olives, and peppers.
The Deli has fabric tablecloths with paper placemats - nice for catching the condensation from my glass of water (+). Our server took drink orders and ensured that there was adequate silverware and appropriate condiments before our lunch orders arrived (+). The place was jumping but our server managed to slip back several times to fill drink glasses. We were able to pay individually and fairly quickly with no problem. On the way back to work at 12:30 I noted that the entire place was filled with people - the "back room" was filled and every seat in the main part of the restaurant was taken as well. Great business - I hope they continue the good food and fine service for a great price.
The deli boasts cold and hot sandwiches at lunch time and includes sides of baked beans, potato salad, macaroni/tuna salad, pasta salad, cole slaw, french fries, or chips. Cold deli sandwiches of roast beef, corned beef, turkey, tuna, slides ham, chicken salad, egg salad, blt, and grilled chicken are piled high and accompanied by cheeses, dressings, lettuce, tomato, and onion on a variety of breads. Hot sandwich specialities include buffalo chicken, steak and cheese, french dip, cordon bleu, tuna melt, pastrami, and more. Angus burgers can be adorned with cheese, chili, mushrooms, and bacon. Salad plates of tuna, chicken, taco, and plain garden are also options. Baskets of wings, shrimp, fish and chips, and chicken tenders are also tempting. Every single item on the lunch menu is less than $10!!!
Folks around me had a variety of sandwiches and all commented on how good the food was. One member of our group is a regular at Charlie's (at least once or twice a week) and said the potato salad is the best he's ever had. He had a grilled Reuben sandwich and said that he orders the Reuben every other week - keeps going back to a favorite but trys new things in between. I had the Taco Salad - tortilla chips, cheddar cheese, black olives, hot peppers, lettuce, tomato, onion, and homemade chili. Salsa and sour cream were served on the side. The Taco Salad was more than I could eat so toward the end of the meal, I picked out the parts that I liked the best - the chili, olives, and peppers.
The Deli has fabric tablecloths with paper placemats - nice for catching the condensation from my glass of water (+). Our server took drink orders and ensured that there was adequate silverware and appropriate condiments before our lunch orders arrived (+). The place was jumping but our server managed to slip back several times to fill drink glasses. We were able to pay individually and fairly quickly with no problem. On the way back to work at 12:30 I noted that the entire place was filled with people - the "back room" was filled and every seat in the main part of the restaurant was taken as well. Great business - I hope they continue the good food and fine service for a great price.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Chief's - Your Neighborhood Bar, 44584 Tall Timbers Rd, Tall Timbers, MD
We celebrated a birthday this evening at Chief's in Tall Timbers. You might miss the restaurant and bar unless you drive (or walk) around to the back of the grocery store to check it out. I'm not sure when the renovation occurred, but it's an update from late 80s/early 90s when my youngsters were at Piney Point Elementary School and Chief's was the hang out after the Parent Teacher Association meetings. A glass door at the end of the bar lets in plenty of light and provides an easy exit onto a deck for smokers. Check out Chief's website at http://www.wjdent.com/. Dave and Andy Dent own the place and it's one of the few spots in the county where you can purchase Southern Maryland stuffed ham. For those who remember Chief (a retired Navy Chief who became an icon at the bar - started working there after retiring from the Navy in the 1960s and bought the place in 1978) raise your glass in a toast to his memory!
There was a variety of food ordered at Chief's this evening: pizza, coconut shrimp, fish and chips, and cheese steak. The portions were generous - there's fish in my frig for lunch tomorrow and half of the cheese steak went home with the birthday girl. The pizza looked good and smelled great - it got a thumbs up from diners. I understand that the coconut shrimp was a little heavy on the dough which made it chewy but the diner said that it had good flavor - I think he's a young man of discriminating taste.
You may order a sandwich from the deli and bring it into the bar/restaurant area for dinner which one in our group chose to do. I forgot to ask how the sandwich tasted but it was piled fairly high with meat and shredded lettuce. I didn't notice any left-overs.
For a neighborhood hangout, Chief's was busy on a Wednesday night. The bar was full and there were at least 30 people at tables having dinner during the two hours that we were there. Starters include sides as well as appetizers and start at $1.79 for cole slaw, mid-range of $4.99 for onion rings or fried pickles (yes, fried dill pickle spears and they are delicious), and higher for crab dip or steamed mussels at $10.99, or a full pound of steamed shrimp for $15.99. Salads included garden and ceasar as well as grilled chicken and grilled shrimp salads and soups were clam chowder and seafood chowder. Entrees ranged from steaks, to shrimp, fresh catch, scallops, and crab cakes. (I'm waiting to see oysters on the menu and I'm sure it will happen. I hit Chief's twice this summer for soft crabs - not just a couple of dinky soft crabs but three legal size soft crabs on the dinner plate.) Sandwich specialties are the cheese steak, chicken cheese steak, stuffed ham, crab cake, fish, and burger.
I had a drink at the bar before the others arrived. Fast, friendly service but no cocktail napkin or coaster (-). Fortunately, I was sitting near napkins so I helped myself. When the birthday girl and family arrived and we sat at a table, we still got no cocktail napkins with our drink order. There are plastic/oilcloth covers on the tables so there's no place for the condensation on your beverage glass to go except on you. When the food was served, we didn't have enough place settings of silverware (-). That was quickly rectified but is one of my pet peeves. There is a roll of paper towels on each table so those eating finger food dug in without hesitation. This is the first time, in a long time, that I've been in a local restaurant and not have the server come to the table asking, "Who got the xxxx?" I was impressed that our server knew who ordered which dish (+).
Chief's is a neighborhood joint. If you're in the hood. stop by. It's worth a visit. Food is served Monday through Friday from 4:00 until 9:00 p.m. and from noon unti 9:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Try the stuffed ham sandwich - only $7.00 so you can afford a few fried pickles on the side. Get ready to pucker!
There was a variety of food ordered at Chief's this evening: pizza, coconut shrimp, fish and chips, and cheese steak. The portions were generous - there's fish in my frig for lunch tomorrow and half of the cheese steak went home with the birthday girl. The pizza looked good and smelled great - it got a thumbs up from diners. I understand that the coconut shrimp was a little heavy on the dough which made it chewy but the diner said that it had good flavor - I think he's a young man of discriminating taste.
You may order a sandwich from the deli and bring it into the bar/restaurant area for dinner which one in our group chose to do. I forgot to ask how the sandwich tasted but it was piled fairly high with meat and shredded lettuce. I didn't notice any left-overs.
For a neighborhood hangout, Chief's was busy on a Wednesday night. The bar was full and there were at least 30 people at tables having dinner during the two hours that we were there. Starters include sides as well as appetizers and start at $1.79 for cole slaw, mid-range of $4.99 for onion rings or fried pickles (yes, fried dill pickle spears and they are delicious), and higher for crab dip or steamed mussels at $10.99, or a full pound of steamed shrimp for $15.99. Salads included garden and ceasar as well as grilled chicken and grilled shrimp salads and soups were clam chowder and seafood chowder. Entrees ranged from steaks, to shrimp, fresh catch, scallops, and crab cakes. (I'm waiting to see oysters on the menu and I'm sure it will happen. I hit Chief's twice this summer for soft crabs - not just a couple of dinky soft crabs but three legal size soft crabs on the dinner plate.) Sandwich specialties are the cheese steak, chicken cheese steak, stuffed ham, crab cake, fish, and burger.
I had a drink at the bar before the others arrived. Fast, friendly service but no cocktail napkin or coaster (-). Fortunately, I was sitting near napkins so I helped myself. When the birthday girl and family arrived and we sat at a table, we still got no cocktail napkins with our drink order. There are plastic/oilcloth covers on the tables so there's no place for the condensation on your beverage glass to go except on you. When the food was served, we didn't have enough place settings of silverware (-). That was quickly rectified but is one of my pet peeves. There is a roll of paper towels on each table so those eating finger food dug in without hesitation. This is the first time, in a long time, that I've been in a local restaurant and not have the server come to the table asking, "Who got the xxxx?" I was impressed that our server knew who ordered which dish (+).
Chief's is a neighborhood joint. If you're in the hood. stop by. It's worth a visit. Food is served Monday through Friday from 4:00 until 9:00 p.m. and from noon unti 9:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Try the stuffed ham sandwich - only $7.00 so you can afford a few fried pickles on the side. Get ready to pucker!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
O'Lordans Irish Pub, 14 Liberty St, Westminster, MD 21157
If you have occasion to visit Westminster, put O'Lordans Irish Pub on your list of MUST stops. The stone building, circa late 1860s, has been renovated with style and a nod to the past. The Pub is owned and operated by Dave and Wendy Johansson - Wendy traces the O'Lordans name to her grandmother's family. O'Lordans is open every day except Monday. Visit their website at http://www.olordansirishpub.com/.
I was at Westminster to hear Ramblin' Jack Elliott at the Westminster Theatre. O'Lordans is just a couple of blocks away from the theatre. While indulging in Bushmills Irish Whiskey, we decided to stay around for dinner since the Pub seemed to be attracting quite a crowd. Food and service were both A++!
O'Lordan's offers a variety of soups and salads ranging in price from $3 for small portions to $5 for large soups and $4 to $9 for salads. We decided to share an appetizer instead of soup or salad and indulged in the Oak Smoked Salmon served with flat bread, capers, red onions, hard-boiled chopped egg, and chive cream. It was excellent! Other appetizer options were Irish Cheese Board, Crab Dip, Gaelic Prawns, Irish Whiskey Tenders, Onion Loaf, Potato Skins, and more. Most were between $8 and $12.
The guys (hubby and a SOMD friend that we met at the Pub) both ordered the Gaelic Strip - 14 oz grilled New York Strip topped with 3 jumbo shrimp in white wine butter sauce. The steak was accompanied by roasted red bliss potatoes and Dublinear asparagus gratin. All of this for $25.99 - the steak was melt-in-your mouth tender and the shrimp firm and full of flavor. I must try asparagus gratin in my kitchen - you can too, just pull out your favorite gratin recipe and add a little Irish cheese to it! Thanks guys for giving me a taste from your plates!
I ordered Duck Ravioli - duck confit stuffed home-made ravioli topped with butternut squash and sage sauce. (Giada DeLaurentis has a similar sauce that she uses over pasta with shrimp and I've used her recipe several times. This sauce was reminiscent of Giada's and was absolutely divine.) The ravioli was accompanied by string vegetables (what's the culinary term for carrots, zucchini, etc., cut in very thin strips and sauteed for just a few minutes?). The mound of vegies in the middle of the plate was tender crisp with just a hint of butter and really benefited from a brush of the ravioli sauce. This dish was heavenly!
The Pub menu also contained filet mignon, salmon, crab cakes, lamb, chicken, and pasta dishes. I will most definitely return to O'Lordans and try something else next time ... although that will be difficult if the Duck Ravioli is the speciality of the night again. There is also an abundant sandwich list with lots of side options. Specialty desserts included Irish Cream Cheesecake, Bread Pudding, Irish Mist Strawberry Shortcake, and Baileys Irish Cream Rice Pudding - we were too full to indulge.
Service was excellent, from the bar tender to the hostesses to our server. These folks were very pleasant, enjoyed their work, and were proud of the building and their menu. I did not, however, get a cocktail napkin (-) while in the bar or when seated for dinner; you know my pet peeves!
I was at Westminster to hear Ramblin' Jack Elliott at the Westminster Theatre. O'Lordans is just a couple of blocks away from the theatre. While indulging in Bushmills Irish Whiskey, we decided to stay around for dinner since the Pub seemed to be attracting quite a crowd. Food and service were both A++!
O'Lordan's offers a variety of soups and salads ranging in price from $3 for small portions to $5 for large soups and $4 to $9 for salads. We decided to share an appetizer instead of soup or salad and indulged in the Oak Smoked Salmon served with flat bread, capers, red onions, hard-boiled chopped egg, and chive cream. It was excellent! Other appetizer options were Irish Cheese Board, Crab Dip, Gaelic Prawns, Irish Whiskey Tenders, Onion Loaf, Potato Skins, and more. Most were between $8 and $12.
The guys (hubby and a SOMD friend that we met at the Pub) both ordered the Gaelic Strip - 14 oz grilled New York Strip topped with 3 jumbo shrimp in white wine butter sauce. The steak was accompanied by roasted red bliss potatoes and Dublinear asparagus gratin. All of this for $25.99 - the steak was melt-in-your mouth tender and the shrimp firm and full of flavor. I must try asparagus gratin in my kitchen - you can too, just pull out your favorite gratin recipe and add a little Irish cheese to it! Thanks guys for giving me a taste from your plates!
I ordered Duck Ravioli - duck confit stuffed home-made ravioli topped with butternut squash and sage sauce. (Giada DeLaurentis has a similar sauce that she uses over pasta with shrimp and I've used her recipe several times. This sauce was reminiscent of Giada's and was absolutely divine.) The ravioli was accompanied by string vegetables (what's the culinary term for carrots, zucchini, etc., cut in very thin strips and sauteed for just a few minutes?). The mound of vegies in the middle of the plate was tender crisp with just a hint of butter and really benefited from a brush of the ravioli sauce. This dish was heavenly!
The Pub menu also contained filet mignon, salmon, crab cakes, lamb, chicken, and pasta dishes. I will most definitely return to O'Lordans and try something else next time ... although that will be difficult if the Duck Ravioli is the speciality of the night again. There is also an abundant sandwich list with lots of side options. Specialty desserts included Irish Cream Cheesecake, Bread Pudding, Irish Mist Strawberry Shortcake, and Baileys Irish Cream Rice Pudding - we were too full to indulge.
Service was excellent, from the bar tender to the hostesses to our server. These folks were very pleasant, enjoyed their work, and were proud of the building and their menu. I did not, however, get a cocktail napkin (-) while in the bar or when seated for dinner; you know my pet peeves!
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Leonardtown Grille, 25470 Point Lookout Rd, Leonardtown, MD 20650
For a delicious home-cooked tasting meal, give the Leonardtown Grille a try. The restaurant is run by Robyn Brown and Michael Hicks (formerly of House of Ribs in Charlotte Hall, River's Edge in Benedict, and Quiznos in California). They seem to have good luck in the food business and Robyn really enjoys being around people and takes pride in the Grille's food. Entrees were priced from $15-to-$25 and there were lots of reasonably priced appetizers, salads, and sandwiches on the menu - I'll have to go back! They open at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday serving lunch and dinner; they serve made-to-order breakfast on Sunday.
I had the combo crab cake and shrimp dinner and chose to have my shrimp steamed (fried was also an option as was another way - grilled? blackened? - I'll have to pay better attention if I want to be useful at this blogging stuff. Entrees come with two sides and I selected baked potato and slaw. Okay, so I'll remember to take notes on other sides next time. Hubby got the crab cake dinner with the same sides. We each ordered a drink (no cocktail napkin -). Entrees were served with mini tubs of butter, sour cream, tartar sauce (for crabcake), and cocktail sauce (for shrimp). You can probably get cocktail sauce for your crab cake if you prefer it over tartar. Steamed shrimp (8 large) were piping hot and delicious. Within two minutes, our server stopped by with extra napkins (I didn't even ask +) - you know how messy your fingers get peeling shrimp. Crab cakes were as big as softballs, fairly well seasoned, rolled in cracker crumbs, and deep fried for a crispy coating. Everyone has their own special crab cake recipe and I am picky, picky, picky to the point of wondering why I ordered crab, but was pleasantly surprised. The crab cake at the Grille was good and hubby could only eat one of his, packing up the remaining one for a midnight snack or lunch tomorrow. The baked potato was moist and flavorful. The slaw was like my grandmother's - a hint of sugar. (I think they put sugar in everything after the depression.) Much to our surprise, Robyn mentioned that they had cornbread in the oven that would be done in a minute. It's hard to get bread at a restaurant these days; I guess with the trend toward low carb diets they just don't offer it. Sure enough, we were served a basket with four warm squares of cornbread (without asking for bread and at no extra charge +).
Service was good; staff was attentive without hovering and apologized that our drinks were a little slow in arriving. The Grill was busy - there were only 2 or 3 empty tables when we arrived around 6:45 p.m. It was nice to see the business owner so involved in actually running the business. I can easily forgive a late drink arrival when the rest of the meal service was so smooth.
By the way, saw some friends at the Leonardtown Grille who said they eat there about once a week and have never been disappointed. They live just a few miles away so it's nice to have a neighborhood restaurant where the servers get to know you. They highly recommend the bacon wrapped shrimp appetizer and steak sandwich.
Okay, it's your turn to give the Grill a try and let me know what you think!
I had the combo crab cake and shrimp dinner and chose to have my shrimp steamed (fried was also an option as was another way - grilled? blackened? - I'll have to pay better attention if I want to be useful at this blogging stuff. Entrees come with two sides and I selected baked potato and slaw. Okay, so I'll remember to take notes on other sides next time. Hubby got the crab cake dinner with the same sides. We each ordered a drink (no cocktail napkin -). Entrees were served with mini tubs of butter, sour cream, tartar sauce (for crabcake), and cocktail sauce (for shrimp). You can probably get cocktail sauce for your crab cake if you prefer it over tartar. Steamed shrimp (8 large) were piping hot and delicious. Within two minutes, our server stopped by with extra napkins (I didn't even ask +) - you know how messy your fingers get peeling shrimp. Crab cakes were as big as softballs, fairly well seasoned, rolled in cracker crumbs, and deep fried for a crispy coating. Everyone has their own special crab cake recipe and I am picky, picky, picky to the point of wondering why I ordered crab, but was pleasantly surprised. The crab cake at the Grille was good and hubby could only eat one of his, packing up the remaining one for a midnight snack or lunch tomorrow. The baked potato was moist and flavorful. The slaw was like my grandmother's - a hint of sugar. (I think they put sugar in everything after the depression.) Much to our surprise, Robyn mentioned that they had cornbread in the oven that would be done in a minute. It's hard to get bread at a restaurant these days; I guess with the trend toward low carb diets they just don't offer it. Sure enough, we were served a basket with four warm squares of cornbread (without asking for bread and at no extra charge +).
Service was good; staff was attentive without hovering and apologized that our drinks were a little slow in arriving. The Grill was busy - there were only 2 or 3 empty tables when we arrived around 6:45 p.m. It was nice to see the business owner so involved in actually running the business. I can easily forgive a late drink arrival when the rest of the meal service was so smooth.
By the way, saw some friends at the Leonardtown Grille who said they eat there about once a week and have never been disappointed. They live just a few miles away so it's nice to have a neighborhood restaurant where the servers get to know you. They highly recommend the bacon wrapped shrimp appetizer and steak sandwich.
Okay, it's your turn to give the Grill a try and let me know what you think!
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Balsamic Vinegar Salad Dressing
Okay, so I told you about the upcoming Metropolitan Cooking Show in the previous post. One of my favorite vendors at the show is JD Gourmet (http://www.jdgourmet.com/). I really like this vendor because they have the absolute best balsamic vinegars in the country. I routinely use their Black Mission Fig Balsamic Vinegar and their White Balsamic Vinegar with Pear. Here's a recipe for Balsamic Vinegar Salad Dressing using either. I have made this dressing with balsamic vinegars from several local grocery stores and they just doesn't have the depth of flavor as the balsamic vinegers from JD Gourmet - treat yourself - it's worth it!
Fig Balsamic Vinegar Dressing
3 T fig balsamic vinegar
1 t dijon mustard
1 t honey
1/4 t freshly ground black pepper
dash of salt
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Combine vinegar, mustard, honey, and S&P in small bowl and whisk to combine. Slowly add EVOO and continue whisking. The mixture will emulsify and become a gorgeous, glossy dressing. Just before serving, pour dressing over greens of your choice and , using salad serving spoons or tongs, mix to ensure even coverage - best with mixed field greens, spinach, etc. Delish!
Fig Balsamic Vinegar Dressing
3 T fig balsamic vinegar
1 t dijon mustard
1 t honey
1/4 t freshly ground black pepper
dash of salt
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Combine vinegar, mustard, honey, and S&P in small bowl and whisk to combine. Slowly add EVOO and continue whisking. The mixture will emulsify and become a gorgeous, glossy dressing. Just before serving, pour dressing over greens of your choice and , using salad serving spoons or tongs, mix to ensure even coverage - best with mixed field greens, spinach, etc. Delish!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Metropolitan Cooking and Enterainment Show
Check out the Metropolitan Cooking and Entertainment event at the D.C. Convention Center on 5 and 6 November. The cost is $27 for general admission at the door - I swear it was only $10 or $15 general admission when the event first started some years ago. Guest chefs this year include Paula Deen, Guy Fieri, Giada DeLaurentis, and more - check out the website at http://www.metrocooking.com/. Celebrity theatre tickets, for cooking demos with your favorite chef, are $65 or more in advance and can be over $100 at the door. The pricier the ticket, the closer the seat to the stage. The theatre is huge - if you're in the back, you're watching on the big screen. After seeing my favorites a couple of times I figured out that I really have the most fun walking the floor. For the cost of general admission you can see lots of cooking and carving demonstrations; get hints on party planning, table setting, centerpieces, etc., during half hour presentations scheduled throughout the day; and taste all kinds of butters, sauces, rubs, dips, drinks - and purchase the things you like. You'll also find cookbooks, aprons, and unique utensils. Take a backpack and a few sturdy fabric bags for thing things you buy. Grab a business card from vendors whose wares you like - you can order from them online in the future. Remember to take your credit card. Easy trip via metro from SOMD.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Anita's Pastries
It's finally happening! Anita Kriner is expanding her business - Anita's Wedding Cakes - to include specialty cakes and pastries. Actually, she's always baked specialty cakes upon request but the pastries will be something new. She's also moving her location from Chancellor's Run Road to Hickory Hills Shopping Center (at the corner of Chancellor's Run and Three Notch (Rt 235) Roads). Anita hopes to make the location move before the approaching holidays. Her new shop will open at 10 a.m. - not in time for the hustle of the government / defense contractor world (so get your cannolis the day before) but plenty of time for a dessert following dinner at Nicolletti's (hint, hint). Anita provided a delicious cake for sponsor evening of The Newtowne Players production of "The Rainmaker" yesterday. The woman is talented - please patronize this growing local business and visit the website at http://www.anitasweddingcakes.com/! While you're at it - reserve tickets for "The Rainmaker" at http://www.newtowneplayers.org/.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Food Service - Service is a Key Element of the Dining Experience
This is my very first blog! How exciting (for me anyway ... and I hope that you'll find the information useful).
My intent is to spread the word on great food in SOMD, acknowledge good service when it is given, and provide tips for servers who may want to increase their tips (pun intended). These posts will be based on personal experience and preference, but I think you'll agree that some of the points are so "common sense" that it's unbelievable any dining establishment would not follow them.
Here are just two basics for restaurant managers and servers:
1. Provide a napkin with a cocktail. Ever had a cool beverage delivered to your table and, due to condensation, dripped on your newly dry-cleaned clothing while trying to take a sip?
2. Ensure that silverware is at the table before serving food. Don't you love it when the server drops off your plate, says "Enjoy your meal" and you have nothing to eat it with?!?!?!
These two items are my pet peeves and they are easy to correct. Much more later ... I'm just figuring this out!
My intent is to spread the word on great food in SOMD, acknowledge good service when it is given, and provide tips for servers who may want to increase their tips (pun intended). These posts will be based on personal experience and preference, but I think you'll agree that some of the points are so "common sense" that it's unbelievable any dining establishment would not follow them.
Here are just two basics for restaurant managers and servers:
1. Provide a napkin with a cocktail. Ever had a cool beverage delivered to your table and, due to condensation, dripped on your newly dry-cleaned clothing while trying to take a sip?
2. Ensure that silverware is at the table before serving food. Don't you love it when the server drops off your plate, says "Enjoy your meal" and you have nothing to eat it with?!?!?!
These two items are my pet peeves and they are easy to correct. Much more later ... I'm just figuring this out!
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