Saltgrass Steakhouse
560 W. LBJ Freeway
Irving, TX 75063
972.373.9944
http://www.saltgrass.com/
5:45-7:30 PM
$$ (Ramona and Jim only)
Ramona: Caesar salad, 8 oz. Prime Rib, loaded baked potato, glass of house Cabernet
Jim: Caesar salad, 10 oz. sirloin with fried shrimp, glass of house Cabernet
Shared: Key lime pie
We traveled to meet a woman and her husband Jim had become acquainted with during an on-line class. The company was wonderful, and so was the meal. Our new friends had only recently moved to the Metroplex, and this was their first visit to Saltgrass. We ate their frequently when Ramona worked in Dallas, but this was our first visit for the blog.
The steaks were tender and juicy, the salads very good, and our server took good care of us all the while. We look forward to their visit to Waco over the holidays.
-Jim
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Breakfast -- 11/29/08
Cafe Cappuccino
4700 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.3739
http://www.cafecappuccinotexas.com/
9:15 - 10:10 AM
$
Ramona: Cream chipped beef on toast, coffee
Jim: Eggs Benedict, coffee
I like this dish, even though they use regular ham and not Canadian bacon, but they always drown the plate in hollandaise sauce, so I started asking for it on the side. Much improvement, but they still give me a large bowl. I hate to waste over half of it, but I can only ask for 1/2 of a bowl.
Although it was not crowded (we were seated in about five minutes), the service was really poor today. We waited almost ten minutes before we had out coffee order taken, and then only because we asked for a server. The young lady who had our table was excited to see old friends at the table beside our, and they got all her attention.
Still our favorite place for breakfast!
-Jim
4700 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.3739
http://www.cafecappuccinotexas.com/
9:15 - 10:10 AM
$
Ramona: Cream chipped beef on toast, coffee
Jim: Eggs Benedict, coffee
I like this dish, even though they use regular ham and not Canadian bacon, but they always drown the plate in hollandaise sauce, so I started asking for it on the side. Much improvement, but they still give me a large bowl. I hate to waste over half of it, but I can only ask for 1/2 of a bowl.
Although it was not crowded (we were seated in about five minutes), the service was really poor today. We waited almost ten minutes before we had out coffee order taken, and then only because we asked for a server. The young lady who had our table was excited to see old friends at the table beside our, and they got all her attention.
Still our favorite place for breakfast!
-Jim
Lunch -- 11/26/08
Weinerschnitzel
101 S. New Rd
Waco, TX 76710
(254)751-0891
http://www.wienerschnitzel.com/
$
Ramona: Two corn dogs with mustard and ketchup, diet coke
Jim: Two hot dogs with mustard and sauerkraut, vanilla milk shake
Why do hot dogs always taste better away from home? The one big benefit of Weinerschnitzels is they have sauerkraut for their dogs. Tom's Burgers on Sanger near highway six, has great hot dogs, but no sauerkraut.
Corn dogs? At least one was free with a coupon. Mustard and ketchup? She's from North Carolina. The hot dogs were good, and Ramona swears the corn dogs were, too.
-Jim
101 S. New Rd
Waco, TX 76710
(254)751-0891
http://www.wienerschnitzel.com/
$
Ramona: Two corn dogs with mustard and ketchup, diet coke
Jim: Two hot dogs with mustard and sauerkraut, vanilla milk shake
Why do hot dogs always taste better away from home? The one big benefit of Weinerschnitzels is they have sauerkraut for their dogs. Tom's Burgers on Sanger near highway six, has great hot dogs, but no sauerkraut.
Corn dogs? At least one was free with a coupon. Mustard and ketchup? She's from North Carolina. The hot dogs were good, and Ramona swears the corn dogs were, too.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/25/08
Cotton Patch Cafe
5501 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.4200
http://www.cottonpatch.com/
4:15 - 5:30 PM
$
Ramona: Dixie Belle meatloaf, fried okra, mashed potatoes, iced tea
Jim: Fish and chips basket, iced tea
We had some shopping to do for Thanksgiving, so we decided on a fast, light, dinner before
hitting the grocery story. That spells Cotton patch.
The food is always reliable, and they did have a new menu this visit, alas, still no turkey dinner.
-Jim
5501 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.4200
http://www.cottonpatch.com/
4:15 - 5:30 PM
$
Ramona: Dixie Belle meatloaf, fried okra, mashed potatoes, iced tea
Jim: Fish and chips basket, iced tea
We had some shopping to do for Thanksgiving, so we decided on a fast, light, dinner before
hitting the grocery story. That spells Cotton patch.
The food is always reliable, and they did have a new menu this visit, alas, still no turkey dinner.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/23/08
Texas Roadhouse
2815 LaSalle Ave
Waco, TX 76705
254.682.1177
http://www.texasroadhouse.com/
5:20 - 6:15 PM
$$
Ramona: Caesar salad, Dallas filet (6 oz.), loaded baked potato, iced tea
Jim: Caesar salad, Ft. Worth rib-eye (10 oz.), loaded baked potato, iced tea
We were in the mood for steak, so of the three choices in Waco (Logan's, Outback, and TR),
we chose TR because it was least visited on our list.
It was not too crowded, we were seated immediately, so it was not too noisy, our principle complaint about this spot.
The food was great, but the rolls seemed smaller. Maybe we are getting bigger!
-Jim
2815 LaSalle Ave
Waco, TX 76705
254.682.1177
http://www.texasroadhouse.com/
5:20 - 6:15 PM
$$
Ramona: Caesar salad, Dallas filet (6 oz.), loaded baked potato, iced tea
Jim: Caesar salad, Ft. Worth rib-eye (10 oz.), loaded baked potato, iced tea
We were in the mood for steak, so of the three choices in Waco (Logan's, Outback, and TR),
we chose TR because it was least visited on our list.
It was not too crowded, we were seated immediately, so it was not too noisy, our principle complaint about this spot.
The food was great, but the rolls seemed smaller. Maybe we are getting bigger!
-Jim
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Dinner -- 11/22/08
Crystal Terrace Restaurant
in The Music Hall at Fair Park
909 1st Ave
Dallas, TX 75210
214.565.0591
5:30 - 7:15 PM
$$
Ramona & Jim: Samples from buffet: cheese and crackers, quiche with sliced potatoes, spring greens salad, potato salad, chick peas with peppers and curry, roasted red and yellow peppers, roast beef, sausage, turkey, chicken breast with peach dressing, key lime pie, fruit, almond cake, chocolate layer cake, Estancia Cabernet, 2006 (Paso Robles, CA), coffee.
The food was okay, some things were better than others. Jim thought the turkey was dried out, and the beef was fatty. The desserts were good, although one of our party did not like the cheese cake. It was tasty, but too spongy, not firm enough.
One of these weeks, we are going to try something different. Maybe the Old Mill Inn in Fair Park.
-Jim
in The Music Hall at Fair Park
909 1st Ave
Dallas, TX 75210
214.565.0591
5:30 - 7:15 PM
$$
Ramona & Jim: Samples from buffet: cheese and crackers, quiche with sliced potatoes, spring greens salad, potato salad, chick peas with peppers and curry, roasted red and yellow peppers, roast beef, sausage, turkey, chicken breast with peach dressing, key lime pie, fruit, almond cake, chocolate layer cake, Estancia Cabernet, 2006 (Paso Robles, CA), coffee.
The food was okay, some things were better than others. Jim thought the turkey was dried out, and the beef was fatty. The desserts were good, although one of our party did not like the cheese cake. It was tasty, but too spongy, not firm enough.
One of these weeks, we are going to try something different. Maybe the Old Mill Inn in Fair Park.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/22/08
1424
1424 Washington Ave
Waco, TX 76701
254.752.7512
5:20 - 7:15 PM
$$$
Ramona: Caesar salad, Seafood piccata (scallops, shrimp, tilapia fillets) over rice with carrots, sugar snap peas, triple chocolate mousse cake
Jim: Caesar salad, Mahi-mahi stuffed with crab and shrimp, topped with a mild spicy tomato sauce, sugar snap peas and carrots with garlic, white chocolate bread pudding, coffee
Shared: Louis Jadot Pouilly Fuisse, 2006 (France)
One of the weak links in prior 1424 dinner experiences was the bread. That has been remedied with fresh, hot, crusty french (i.e., perfect) bread.
The result was one of the finest meals we have had at one of our favorite restaurants in Waco. However, we must say we have never had a bad meal there. We both chose dishes we had never had. Jim's mahi-mahi was a Friday seafood special. The fish was sweet and delicate, and the stuffing was an excellent contrast to the slightly spicy tomato sauce as a topping.
Ramona's seafood piccata was a wonderful variety of tastes and textures. The dish also had plenty of shrimp and scallops for sharing with a chunk of my fish, sauce, and stuffing.
Wes did an excellent job of serving. He is the opposite of all the things we find annoying in the chains. He was attentive without hovering, and knew when to refill wine and water glasses. He also offered coffee, which was a shade weak for my taste, but my test is a spoon able to stand by itself in the middle of the cup!
All in all, an outstanding dining experience, and a must visit. Incidentally, we put our name in for Valentine's Day dinner, even though they have not yet started taking names. Last year we were shut out, and that will not happen again, especially since this will be our sixth anniversary together.
-Jim
1424 Washington Ave
Waco, TX 76701
254.752.7512
5:20 - 7:15 PM
$$$
Ramona: Caesar salad, Seafood piccata (scallops, shrimp, tilapia fillets) over rice with carrots, sugar snap peas, triple chocolate mousse cake
Jim: Caesar salad, Mahi-mahi stuffed with crab and shrimp, topped with a mild spicy tomato sauce, sugar snap peas and carrots with garlic, white chocolate bread pudding, coffee
Shared: Louis Jadot Pouilly Fuisse, 2006 (France)
One of the weak links in prior 1424 dinner experiences was the bread. That has been remedied with fresh, hot, crusty french (i.e., perfect) bread.
The result was one of the finest meals we have had at one of our favorite restaurants in Waco. However, we must say we have never had a bad meal there. We both chose dishes we had never had. Jim's mahi-mahi was a Friday seafood special. The fish was sweet and delicate, and the stuffing was an excellent contrast to the slightly spicy tomato sauce as a topping.
Ramona's seafood piccata was a wonderful variety of tastes and textures. The dish also had plenty of shrimp and scallops for sharing with a chunk of my fish, sauce, and stuffing.
Wes did an excellent job of serving. He is the opposite of all the things we find annoying in the chains. He was attentive without hovering, and knew when to refill wine and water glasses. He also offered coffee, which was a shade weak for my taste, but my test is a spoon able to stand by itself in the middle of the cup!
All in all, an outstanding dining experience, and a must visit. Incidentally, we put our name in for Valentine's Day dinner, even though they have not yet started taking names. Last year we were shut out, and that will not happen again, especially since this will be our sixth anniversary together.
-Jim
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Lunch -- 11/20/08
Jack in the Box
5127 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.776.0097
http://jackinthebox.com
$
Ramona: Chicken club sandwich on ciabatta bread, curly fries, diet Coke
Jim: Grilled chicken club on sourdough, fries, iced tea
What is it with restaurants selling ice tea, but refusing to carry lemons? How much of an investment is a box of lemon packets? They never go bad, and thousands come in a small box.
McDonald's, Burger King, Subway, and now Jack, with his big head, thinks he can get by without providing lemon. Some people, for various reasons, can not drink sugared soda, some of those do not like diet drinks, so what is left? Tea without lemon or water. Lousy choice!
-Jim
5127 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.776.0097
http://jackinthebox.com
$
Ramona: Chicken club sandwich on ciabatta bread, curly fries, diet Coke
Jim: Grilled chicken club on sourdough, fries, iced tea
What is it with restaurants selling ice tea, but refusing to carry lemons? How much of an investment is a box of lemon packets? They never go bad, and thousands come in a small box.
McDonald's, Burger King, Subway, and now Jack, with his big head, thinks he can get by without providing lemon. Some people, for various reasons, can not drink sugared soda, some of those do not like diet drinks, so what is left? Tea without lemon or water. Lousy choice!
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/19/08
Applebee's
614 N. Valley Mills Rd.
Waco, TX 76710
254.751.9084
http://www.applebeesny-togo.com/
5:40 - 6:40 PM
$
Ramona: Fiesta lime chicken with black beans and rice, water with lemon
Jim: Three cheese chicken penne pasta, iced tea
Shared: Mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce
We had shopping to do for the book club meeting we hosted on Thursday, 11/20, so we decided on a quick, easy, good, and inexpensive meal before hitting H.E.B. That combination usually means Applebee's or Chili's. Tonight was Applebee's turn. This was under their current promotion -- "Two for $20"
We rarely get mozzarella sticks, but these were good, and the marinara sauce had just a touch of spice. The dish Jim choose was new for him, but Ramona went with an old favorite.
No complaints at all. We were immediately seated, served drinks, had our order taken, but the actual meal was not rushed. All in all, a fine experience from this chain, which seems to change its menu every time we visit.
-Jim
614 N. Valley Mills Rd.
Waco, TX 76710
254.751.9084
http://www.applebeesny-togo.com/
5:40 - 6:40 PM
$
Ramona: Fiesta lime chicken with black beans and rice, water with lemon
Jim: Three cheese chicken penne pasta, iced tea
Shared: Mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce
We had shopping to do for the book club meeting we hosted on Thursday, 11/20, so we decided on a quick, easy, good, and inexpensive meal before hitting H.E.B. That combination usually means Applebee's or Chili's. Tonight was Applebee's turn. This was under their current promotion -- "Two for $20"
We rarely get mozzarella sticks, but these were good, and the marinara sauce had just a touch of spice. The dish Jim choose was new for him, but Ramona went with an old favorite.
No complaints at all. We were immediately seated, served drinks, had our order taken, but the actual meal was not rushed. All in all, a fine experience from this chain, which seems to change its menu every time we visit.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/18/08
Bangkok Royal Restaurant
215 S. University Parks Dr.
Waco, TX 76701
254.757.2741
5:30 -6:35 PM
$$
Ramona: Won ton soup (shrimp and ground pork in clear broth), Pad see eew (chicken, stir-fried rice, noodles, broccoli, and egg, with house sauce, hot jasmine tea
Jim: Tom Yum Goong soup (lemon grass, shrimp, galanga, raffir leaves, mushrooms, tomato, cilantro, lime juice), Pineapple fried rice with chicken, Thai tea
Shared: Green tea ice cream
We have out favorites at this excellent, intimate little restaurant, but we both went to new horizons for this visit.
Ramona's won ton soup was a bit different from the regular recipes at our favorite Chinese restaurants. Instead of the large noodles, pieces of shrimp and pork were floating in a delicious broth. Jim tried a new kind of soup, which the server promised was not too spicy, and it wasn't.
It turned out to be just a bit spicy -- perfect!
The dishes we selected were also new and also wonderful. We can now add Bangkok Royal to the list of restaurants that have never served us a bad meal. Jim's pineapple fried rice was also steamy and delicious. Chunks of chicken were spread throughout.
The green tea ice cream had a really interesting taste -- surprise, just like green tea. It was refreshing in it delicacy after a delicate meal.
-Jim
215 S. University Parks Dr.
Waco, TX 76701
254.757.2741
5:30 -6:35 PM
$$
Ramona: Won ton soup (shrimp and ground pork in clear broth), Pad see eew (chicken, stir-fried rice, noodles, broccoli, and egg, with house sauce, hot jasmine tea
Jim: Tom Yum Goong soup (lemon grass, shrimp, galanga, raffir leaves, mushrooms, tomato, cilantro, lime juice), Pineapple fried rice with chicken, Thai tea
Shared: Green tea ice cream
We have out favorites at this excellent, intimate little restaurant, but we both went to new horizons for this visit.
Ramona's won ton soup was a bit different from the regular recipes at our favorite Chinese restaurants. Instead of the large noodles, pieces of shrimp and pork were floating in a delicious broth. Jim tried a new kind of soup, which the server promised was not too spicy, and it wasn't.
It turned out to be just a bit spicy -- perfect!
The dishes we selected were also new and also wonderful. We can now add Bangkok Royal to the list of restaurants that have never served us a bad meal. Jim's pineapple fried rice was also steamy and delicious. Chunks of chicken were spread throughout.
The green tea ice cream had a really interesting taste -- surprise, just like green tea. It was refreshing in it delicacy after a delicate meal.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/16/08
Summer Palace
1520 N. Valley Mills Dr.
Waco, TX 76710
254.766.8081
$
Ramona from the buffet: Egg drop soup, egg roll, shrimp, chicken, rice, fruit, pastry, iced tea
Jim from the buffet: Won ton soup, egg roll, sushi, chicken, shrimp, fruit, iced tea
Since Summer Palace I (down near Baylor on I-35) closed, the name of this venue changed from Summer Palace II to plain old Summer Palace. We presume Summer palace III (in Hewitt) is now Summer Palace II.
At one time, Summer Palace was the best buffet in Waco, it fell off, and we switched to taste of China, but when that closed we went back to second best. We still do not think it is up to its once lofty place as the best buffet in Waco, but it is adequate. We will most likely stick to the three best sit down chinese restaurants in Waco -- Cathay House and Magic China (tied for first), and Happy Wok, which is an excellent venue for lunch.
-Jim
1520 N. Valley Mills Dr.
Waco, TX 76710
254.766.8081
$
Ramona from the buffet: Egg drop soup, egg roll, shrimp, chicken, rice, fruit, pastry, iced tea
Jim from the buffet: Won ton soup, egg roll, sushi, chicken, shrimp, fruit, iced tea
Since Summer Palace I (down near Baylor on I-35) closed, the name of this venue changed from Summer Palace II to plain old Summer Palace. We presume Summer palace III (in Hewitt) is now Summer Palace II.
At one time, Summer Palace was the best buffet in Waco, it fell off, and we switched to taste of China, but when that closed we went back to second best. We still do not think it is up to its once lofty place as the best buffet in Waco, but it is adequate. We will most likely stick to the three best sit down chinese restaurants in Waco -- Cathay House and Magic China (tied for first), and Happy Wok, which is an excellent venue for lunch.
-Jim
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Breakfast -- 11/15/08
Cafe Cappuccino
4700 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.3739
http://www.cafecappuccinotexas.com/
9:00 - 9:40 AM
$
Ramona: OJ, Sausage and cheese omelet with mushrooms, buttermilk pancake, peach mango tea
Jim: Gingerbread waffle, sausage patties, latte
We arrived just in time. We were immediately seated, and before our order was taken, the place was full with several people waiting.
What can we say? The best breakfast spot in Waco. We had to fill up for a visit to the Waco-McLennan County Library's annual book sale. We filled up a couple of bags there!
The food was perfect, and we were set for the day.
-Jim
4700 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.3739
http://www.cafecappuccinotexas.com/
9:00 - 9:40 AM
$
Ramona: OJ, Sausage and cheese omelet with mushrooms, buttermilk pancake, peach mango tea
Jim: Gingerbread waffle, sausage patties, latte
We arrived just in time. We were immediately seated, and before our order was taken, the place was full with several people waiting.
What can we say? The best breakfast spot in Waco. We had to fill up for a visit to the Waco-McLennan County Library's annual book sale. We filled up a couple of bags there!
The food was perfect, and we were set for the day.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/14/08
Olive Garden #1222
5921 W. Waco Dr.
at Richland Mall
Waco, TX 76710-6356
254.751.1667
http://www.olivegarden.com/default_f.asp
5:35 - 6:45 PM
$$
Ramona: Pork filettino with garlic mashed potatoes, iced tea, bow tie chocolate mouse cake
Jim: Stuffed chicken Marsala in a creamy sauce, iced tea, pumpkin cheese cake with caramel sauce and ginger cookie crumbles
Shared: Olive Garden salad,
Olive Garden is really the best Italian food in Waco, now that Vito's has closed, and we were really in the mood for Italian after a hectic week for both of us. We also decided to try dishes we had never had here before.
Ramona's pork filettino was huge. She ended up bringing half of it home, and it was really juicy and full of taste with a hint of red wine.
Jim is not a fan of "Marsala" dishes, but, since this one was advertised as a "creamy Marsala sauce," he decided to try it, and it was terrific. The meal hit the spot all around.
Jim's dessert was a new seasonal treat, and we almost convinced the server that the clean plate between us never had a slice of cheese cake on it!
Dependable, reasonably priced, good food. But Jim still longs for the Italian Restaurants in South Philadelphia.
-Jim
5921 W. Waco Dr.
at Richland Mall
Waco, TX 76710-6356
254.751.1667
http://www.olivegarden.com/default_f.asp
5:35 - 6:45 PM
$$
Ramona: Pork filettino with garlic mashed potatoes, iced tea, bow tie chocolate mouse cake
Jim: Stuffed chicken Marsala in a creamy sauce, iced tea, pumpkin cheese cake with caramel sauce and ginger cookie crumbles
Shared: Olive Garden salad,
Olive Garden is really the best Italian food in Waco, now that Vito's has closed, and we were really in the mood for Italian after a hectic week for both of us. We also decided to try dishes we had never had here before.
Ramona's pork filettino was huge. She ended up bringing half of it home, and it was really juicy and full of taste with a hint of red wine.
Jim is not a fan of "Marsala" dishes, but, since this one was advertised as a "creamy Marsala sauce," he decided to try it, and it was terrific. The meal hit the spot all around.
Jim's dessert was a new seasonal treat, and we almost convinced the server that the clean plate between us never had a slice of cheese cake on it!
Dependable, reasonably priced, good food. But Jim still longs for the Italian Restaurants in South Philadelphia.
-Jim
Dinner --11/12/08
Catfish King of Waco #93
1201 S. Valley Mills Dr
Waco, TX 76711
254.753.7700
http://www.davidbeards.com/page/page/1014807.htm
5:30 - 6:15 PM
$
Ramona: Special Plate (four pieces of fried catfish, fries, slaw, hush puppies, beans, relish), pink lemonade
Jim: Chicken/Catfish Combo (4 pieces of chicken, 3 pieces of catfish, fries, cole slaw, beans, relish, iced tea)
We were out of town last weekend, so we have had no time to shop. Catfish King is reliable for a fast, inexpensive and tasty dinner. We particulalry like the cole slaw and the beans. The pieces of chicken seem to have shrunk. But we are noticing that all over Waco. Still good quality, though.
-Jim
1201 S. Valley Mills Dr
Waco, TX 76711
254.753.7700
http://www.davidbeards.com/page/page/1014807.htm
5:30 - 6:15 PM
$
Ramona: Special Plate (four pieces of fried catfish, fries, slaw, hush puppies, beans, relish), pink lemonade
Jim: Chicken/Catfish Combo (4 pieces of chicken, 3 pieces of catfish, fries, cole slaw, beans, relish, iced tea)
We were out of town last weekend, so we have had no time to shop. Catfish King is reliable for a fast, inexpensive and tasty dinner. We particulalry like the cole slaw and the beans. The pieces of chicken seem to have shrunk. But we are noticing that all over Waco. Still good quality, though.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/10/08
Cheddar's Waco
4208 Franklin Ave
Waco, TX 76710
254.741.1411
http://www.cheddars.com/
5:30 -- 6:20 PM
$$
Ramona: 8 oz. sirloin steak, baked potato, cole slaw, raspberry lemonade
Jim: 8 oz. sirloin steak and grilled shrimp, broccoli cheese casserole, baby carrots, iced tea
Shared: spinach cheese dip with tortilla chips
Our usual custom is to go straight to Cheddar's for dinner when we land in Waco after a trip, but we got in pretty late, so we passed, but promised ourselves a return to one of our favorite spots in Waco on Monday night.
Not really much to say! The food is dependable and delicious. Jim's son joined us and had chicken tenders and shrimp. He could not finish it all, and ended up taking almost half home. We were pleased to get a table immediately.
If you visit Waco, don't miss Cheddar's!
-Jim
4208 Franklin Ave
Waco, TX 76710
254.741.1411
http://www.cheddars.com/
5:30 -- 6:20 PM
$$
Ramona: 8 oz. sirloin steak, baked potato, cole slaw, raspberry lemonade
Jim: 8 oz. sirloin steak and grilled shrimp, broccoli cheese casserole, baby carrots, iced tea
Shared: spinach cheese dip with tortilla chips
Our usual custom is to go straight to Cheddar's for dinner when we land in Waco after a trip, but we got in pretty late, so we passed, but promised ourselves a return to one of our favorite spots in Waco on Monday night.
Not really much to say! The food is dependable and delicious. Jim's son joined us and had chicken tenders and shrimp. He could not finish it all, and ended up taking almost half home. We were pleased to get a table immediately.
If you visit Waco, don't miss Cheddar's!
-Jim
Lunch -- 11/9/08
Chili's Too
DFW Airport
Terminal B
Dallas, TX
$
Jim & Ramona: Chicken quesedillas, iced tea
We had a three hour layover in Dallas before our flight to Waco, so we decided to grab a late lunch. Neither of us were particulalry hungry, so this dish was perfect. The iced tea was good. It was nice to have a glass and not have to load it up with lemons as we do in Waco because of the water.
-Jim
DFW Airport
Terminal B
Dallas, TX
$
Jim & Ramona: Chicken quesedillas, iced tea
We had a three hour layover in Dallas before our flight to Waco, so we decided to grab a late lunch. Neither of us were particulalry hungry, so this dish was perfect. The iced tea was good. It was nice to have a glass and not have to load it up with lemons as we do in Waco because of the water.
-Jim
Friday, November 14, 2008
Breakfast -- 11/9/08
Swamp Fox Restaurant
at the Francis Marion Hotel
387 King Street
Chaleston, SC 29403
843.724.8888
http://www.francismarioncharleston.com/dining.htm
8:00 - 8:50 AM
$$
Ramona: OJ, omelet casserole (potatoes, sausage, bacon, peppers, onions, eggs), biscuit, gravy, coffee
Jim: OJ, oatmeal with brown sugar, poppy seed bagel, coffee
We had a plane to catch, so we didn't have time to go far for breakfast. The hotel was the best bet. As we entered the dining room, the door was held open by the maitre'd, who had just come out of a Starbucks across the hall. We thought that was curious, but after we tasted the coffee, it all became clear -- the coffee was pitiful!
Jim's oatmeal was good and warm, and the bagel was toasted perfectly. Poppy seed bagels are hard to come by, so he always asks and receives one if they are on the menu.
Ramona's selections from the buffet were tasty and warm.
We will undoubtedly eat here next year, but first will stop for our coffee at Starbucks.
-Jim
at the Francis Marion Hotel
387 King Street
Chaleston, SC 29403
843.724.8888
http://www.francismarioncharleston.com/dining.htm
8:00 - 8:50 AM
$$
Ramona: OJ, omelet casserole (potatoes, sausage, bacon, peppers, onions, eggs), biscuit, gravy, coffee
Jim: OJ, oatmeal with brown sugar, poppy seed bagel, coffee
We had a plane to catch, so we didn't have time to go far for breakfast. The hotel was the best bet. As we entered the dining room, the door was held open by the maitre'd, who had just come out of a Starbucks across the hall. We thought that was curious, but after we tasted the coffee, it all became clear -- the coffee was pitiful!
Jim's oatmeal was good and warm, and the bagel was toasted perfectly. Poppy seed bagels are hard to come by, so he always asks and receives one if they are on the menu.
Ramona's selections from the buffet were tasty and warm.
We will undoubtedly eat here next year, but first will stop for our coffee at Starbucks.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/8/08
La Fourchette Bistro Francaise
432 King Street
Charleston, SC 29403
843.722.6261
6:15 - 9:15 PM
http://lafourchettecharleston.com/
$$$$
Ramona: Tomato and rosemary soup, seared duck breast with honey and orange sauce, garlic mashed potatoes.
Jim: Salad (with roasted beets, leeks, and pepper vinagrette dressing), veal stewed in white wine cream sauce with spinach pasta
Shared: Assorted cheese and bread, duck pate with cornichons, mustard and croutons, Chateau Chapelle Siguer (French) 2003 [Montagne St. Emillion], and crepe with lemon whipped cream.
On previous trips to Charleston, we checked this place out, but never went inside, preferring the fabulous seafood restaurants, such as Hyman's, Hanks, and Anson. Since we had seafood on Friday night, we decided on something completely different for Saturday.
This bistro reminded us of many small, intimate restaurants we had visited (Alas! not together!) in Paris. The owner milled about the room greeting guests as they came and left. The soft music in the background as the waiters and guests swirled around the room gave this place a subdued but festive atmosphere. The food was spectacular.
Ramona's soup was hot and delicious. We are more familiar with tomato and basil soup, but this was a wonderful change. Her duck was juicy and tasty. The cheeses presented a variety of tastes from mild to strong and spicy.
Jim's salad was an interesting combination of beets, which he loves, tempered with the slight taste of the leaks. None of the dressing went to waste, since there was plenty of warm baguette to sop up the remainder. His veal was tender, and the sauce was delicate and added to the overall deliciousness of the dish.
The dessert was a special treat. The crepe was warm and soft, and the lemon cream the perfect ending to a spectacular dinner.
The wine was also a great compliment to these dishes. St. Emillion is Jim's favorite Bordeaux, and neither of us was disappointed.
Obviously, this meal was quite expensive. Remember our symbols do not include the tip or the wine, but we both agreed as we walked the two blocks back to our hotel that it was worth every penny. Another must-visit restaurant on any trip to Charleston!
-Jim
432 King Street
Charleston, SC 29403
843.722.6261
6:15 - 9:15 PM
http://lafourchettecharleston.com/
$$$$
Ramona: Tomato and rosemary soup, seared duck breast with honey and orange sauce, garlic mashed potatoes.
Jim: Salad (with roasted beets, leeks, and pepper vinagrette dressing), veal stewed in white wine cream sauce with spinach pasta
Shared: Assorted cheese and bread, duck pate with cornichons, mustard and croutons, Chateau Chapelle Siguer (French) 2003 [Montagne St. Emillion], and crepe with lemon whipped cream.
On previous trips to Charleston, we checked this place out, but never went inside, preferring the fabulous seafood restaurants, such as Hyman's, Hanks, and Anson. Since we had seafood on Friday night, we decided on something completely different for Saturday.
This bistro reminded us of many small, intimate restaurants we had visited (Alas! not together!) in Paris. The owner milled about the room greeting guests as they came and left. The soft music in the background as the waiters and guests swirled around the room gave this place a subdued but festive atmosphere. The food was spectacular.
Ramona's soup was hot and delicious. We are more familiar with tomato and basil soup, but this was a wonderful change. Her duck was juicy and tasty. The cheeses presented a variety of tastes from mild to strong and spicy.
Jim's salad was an interesting combination of beets, which he loves, tempered with the slight taste of the leaks. None of the dressing went to waste, since there was plenty of warm baguette to sop up the remainder. His veal was tender, and the sauce was delicate and added to the overall deliciousness of the dish.
The dessert was a special treat. The crepe was warm and soft, and the lemon cream the perfect ending to a spectacular dinner.
The wine was also a great compliment to these dishes. St. Emillion is Jim's favorite Bordeaux, and neither of us was disappointed.
Obviously, this meal was quite expensive. Remember our symbols do not include the tip or the wine, but we both agreed as we walked the two blocks back to our hotel that it was worth every penny. Another must-visit restaurant on any trip to Charleston!
-Jim
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Lunch -- 11/8/08
Sticky Fingers Rib House
235 Meeting Street
Charleston, SC 29401
843.853.7427
www.stickyfingers.com
$
Ramona: BBQ pork sandwich (Memphis style with cole slaw), fries, pickle, Diet Coke
Jim: BBQ pork sandwich, fries, pickle, iced tea
Shared: wings and sauce, peach cobbler and vanilla ice cream
This Sticky Fingers is the home of the portrait of Steven Colbert, and it is another must visit lunch spot in Charleston. Our hands were truly sticky when we were finished. The barbecue
sauce here is spectacular. In fact, we bought a gift pack of five bottles of the five different
flavors.
The meat is so tender and tasty with the sauce. When you go to Charleston, go to Sticky Fingers for your first lunch or dinner.
-Jim
235 Meeting Street
Charleston, SC 29401
843.853.7427
www.stickyfingers.com
$
Ramona: BBQ pork sandwich (Memphis style with cole slaw), fries, pickle, Diet Coke
Jim: BBQ pork sandwich, fries, pickle, iced tea
Shared: wings and sauce, peach cobbler and vanilla ice cream
This Sticky Fingers is the home of the portrait of Steven Colbert, and it is another must visit lunch spot in Charleston. Our hands were truly sticky when we were finished. The barbecue
sauce here is spectacular. In fact, we bought a gift pack of five bottles of the five different
flavors.
The meat is so tender and tasty with the sauce. When you go to Charleston, go to Sticky Fingers for your first lunch or dinner.
-Jim
Breakfast -- 11/08/2008
Hominy Grill
207 Rutledge Ave.
Charleston, SC 29403
843-937-0930
http://www.hominygrill.com/
10:00 - 10:40 AM
$
Ramona: OJ, 2 poached eggs, baked pork loin, grits and onion gravy, biscuit, coffee
Jim: tomato juice, 2 eggs, sunny side up, house made sausage, hominy grits, toast, coffee
Hominy Grill is one of our must stop dining spots in Charleston. The best hominy grits and the best breakfast anywhere. The restaurant is small and homey. The food is fresh and well-prepared. Jim especially liked the sausage, and Ramona's pork loin was tender and tasty.
The coffee, a blend of Kona and Guatemalan beans was delicious. We also bought a half pound ground for home use.
Andrea was an excellent server, too! There is also an garden out side in the rear. We ate outside last year, so we went with an inside table this year.
-Jim
207 Rutledge Ave.
Charleston, SC 29403
843-937-0930
http://www.hominygrill.com/
10:00 - 10:40 AM
$
Ramona: OJ, 2 poached eggs, baked pork loin, grits and onion gravy, biscuit, coffee
Jim: tomato juice, 2 eggs, sunny side up, house made sausage, hominy grits, toast, coffee
Hominy Grill is one of our must stop dining spots in Charleston. The best hominy grits and the best breakfast anywhere. The restaurant is small and homey. The food is fresh and well-prepared. Jim especially liked the sausage, and Ramona's pork loin was tender and tasty.
The coffee, a blend of Kona and Guatemalan beans was delicious. We also bought a half pound ground for home use.
Andrea was an excellent server, too! There is also an garden out side in the rear. We ate outside last year, so we went with an inside table this year.
-Jim
Dinner -- 11/7/08
Anson
12 Anson St
Charleston, SC 29401
853-577-0551
http://www.ansonrestaurant.com/
6:15-9:50 PM
$$$
Ramona: She-crab soup, Caesar salad, Sea Bass with clam chowder, black-bottom pecan pie with vanilla ice cream
Jim: She-crab soup, Caesar salad, Sea Bass with clam chowder, cheese and contrast, coffee
Shared: Oysters times three (raw, fried, Rockefeller), calimari, breaded fried okra, Jean Gott Sauvignon Blanc (California) 2007
We were fortunate to share this dinner with six colleagues of Ramona in Charleston for the annual Charleston [Library] Conference. The company was fun and we had several spirited discussions going at all times, books, reading libraries, and of course politics. But, as Shakespeare wrote, "Do as lawyers do -- strive mightily, but eat and drink as friends." We did both.
The atmosphere was elegant but relaxed, and the service was superb. A special thanks to our head server, Blake.
The food was outstanding. The she crab soup began the meal and it was delicious, as was the Caesar salad, which was topped with an anchovy. We will run out of superlatives before this review has come to an end! Ramona and I ordered an off-the-menu special, which was sublime. There was broiled sea bass floating on a bed of arugula over a New England clam chowder reduction.
The desserts were also special. Ramona's was warm and tasty. Jim is not a big fan of pecan pie, however, he admitted this was the best he ever tasted. Jim's dessert was most unusual. It consisted of figs soaked in port wine, spiced pecans, garlic bread straws, and tangy goat cheese. This roller coaster ride of tastes was one of the most unusual desserts he has ever had with its variety of tastes, textures, and aromas.
The wine was also an excellent suggestion by Blake. Our first choice was a Russian River Sauvignon Blanc, but, unfortunately, they were out at that moment.
Even the coffee was a perfect ending to the meal.
Anson will be added to our annual list of restaurants to visit in Charleston. We are going to have to lengthen our trip if this trend continues!
-Jim
12 Anson St
Charleston, SC 29401
853-577-0551
http://www.ansonrestaurant.com/
6:15-9:50 PM
$$$
Ramona: She-crab soup, Caesar salad, Sea Bass with clam chowder, black-bottom pecan pie with vanilla ice cream
Jim: She-crab soup, Caesar salad, Sea Bass with clam chowder, cheese and contrast, coffee
Shared: Oysters times three (raw, fried, Rockefeller), calimari, breaded fried okra, Jean Gott Sauvignon Blanc (California) 2007
We were fortunate to share this dinner with six colleagues of Ramona in Charleston for the annual Charleston [Library] Conference. The company was fun and we had several spirited discussions going at all times, books, reading libraries, and of course politics. But, as Shakespeare wrote, "Do as lawyers do -- strive mightily, but eat and drink as friends." We did both.
The atmosphere was elegant but relaxed, and the service was superb. A special thanks to our head server, Blake.
The food was outstanding. The she crab soup began the meal and it was delicious, as was the Caesar salad, which was topped with an anchovy. We will run out of superlatives before this review has come to an end! Ramona and I ordered an off-the-menu special, which was sublime. There was broiled sea bass floating on a bed of arugula over a New England clam chowder reduction.
The desserts were also special. Ramona's was warm and tasty. Jim is not a big fan of pecan pie, however, he admitted this was the best he ever tasted. Jim's dessert was most unusual. It consisted of figs soaked in port wine, spiced pecans, garlic bread straws, and tangy goat cheese. This roller coaster ride of tastes was one of the most unusual desserts he has ever had with its variety of tastes, textures, and aromas.
The wine was also an excellent suggestion by Blake. Our first choice was a Russian River Sauvignon Blanc, but, unfortunately, they were out at that moment.
Even the coffee was a perfect ending to the meal.
Anson will be added to our annual list of restaurants to visit in Charleston. We are going to have to lengthen our trip if this trend continues!
-Jim
Monday, November 3, 2008
Dinner -- 11/02/08
Elite Circle Grille
2132 S. Valley Hills Dr.
Waco, TX 76706 2
54.754.4941
http://www.elitecirclegrille.com/
5:35 - 6:20 PM
$
Ramona: Lunch portion chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, cole slaw, iced tea
Jim: Fish and chips, iced tea
Jim's son was having a slow night, so we decided to help him out with a hefty tip.
Both dishes were hot, fresh, and contained good sized portions. Ramona brought home about a third of her entree. We have had quite a few good meals here, after the bad experience when they first reopened a couple of years ago, so we are much less reluctant to visit. Elite is now in the class of good, dependable food, not too expensive, and a nice atmosphere, but we could do without the sports monitors in every direction.
-Jim
2132 S. Valley Hills Dr.
Waco, TX 76706 2
54.754.4941
http://www.elitecirclegrille.com/
5:35 - 6:20 PM
$
Ramona: Lunch portion chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, cole slaw, iced tea
Jim: Fish and chips, iced tea
Jim's son was having a slow night, so we decided to help him out with a hefty tip.
Both dishes were hot, fresh, and contained good sized portions. Ramona brought home about a third of her entree. We have had quite a few good meals here, after the bad experience when they first reopened a couple of years ago, so we are much less reluctant to visit. Elite is now in the class of good, dependable food, not too expensive, and a nice atmosphere, but we could do without the sports monitors in every direction.
-Jim
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Breakfast -- 11/02/08
Cafe Cappuccino
4700 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.3739
http://www.cafecappuccinotexas.com/
8:00 - 8:30 AM
$
Ramona: Mixed berry and nut pancake (1), 3 strips bacon, coffee, orange juice
Jim: Eggs Benedict, coffee, V8 juice
We were pleasantly surprised by how uncrowded Cafe Cappuccino was this morning. Maybe the extra hour of sleep threw everyone's schedules off, but we had no trouble walking right in and getting a table right away. Even when we left, it was still not crowded.
Readers of our blog know this is our favorite breakfast place in Waco. Jim often orders the Eggs Benedict and has complained (to me, not to them) that they put too much Hollandaise sauce on. So this time, he requested it on the side and the dish was much more to his liking.
Looking back at how many times we've been to CC this year (16!!!), I was surprised to see that this was the first time I've ordered the mixed berry and nut pancake. It really is yummy! Once again, though, I asked for SOFT bacon and one of my slices was almost burned. The other two were very done and crispy. I didn't complain, but I promise I will next time it happens!
Ramona
4700 Bosque Blvd
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.3739
http://www.cafecappuccinotexas.com/
8:00 - 8:30 AM
$
Ramona: Mixed berry and nut pancake (1), 3 strips bacon, coffee, orange juice
Jim: Eggs Benedict, coffee, V8 juice
We were pleasantly surprised by how uncrowded Cafe Cappuccino was this morning. Maybe the extra hour of sleep threw everyone's schedules off, but we had no trouble walking right in and getting a table right away. Even when we left, it was still not crowded.
Readers of our blog know this is our favorite breakfast place in Waco. Jim often orders the Eggs Benedict and has complained (to me, not to them) that they put too much Hollandaise sauce on. So this time, he requested it on the side and the dish was much more to his liking.
Looking back at how many times we've been to CC this year (16!!!), I was surprised to see that this was the first time I've ordered the mixed berry and nut pancake. It really is yummy! Once again, though, I asked for SOFT bacon and one of my slices was almost burned. The other two were very done and crispy. I didn't complain, but I promise I will next time it happens!
Ramona
Dinner -- 11/01/08
Tomatoes Restaurant
704 N. Hewitt Dr.
Hewitt, TX 76643
254.420.3000
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
$$
Ramona: Lobster ravioli, salad, iced tea
Jim: Seafood combo, salad, iced tea
Shared: two baskets of rolls with butter
This was our third visit to Tomatoes, that unique little place in Hewitt that serves both Mexican and Italian dishes. We keep thinking we might try the Mexican side of the menu, but so far we've picked from the Italian side every time.
Fresh rolls and salad come with Italian dinners and we've commented before on the excellent bread. However, we were disappointed tonight that the bread was not warm. That didn't stop us from ordering a second basket! The salads are nothing special, just lettuce and a little bit of carrots. Tonight we both tried the house dressing, which had an unusual flavor. It reminded me of salsa.
Jim and I both tried new dishes tonight and were very pleased. My lobster ravioli was smothered in an excellent pink sauce that was very tasty. His seafood combo included mussels, shrimp, scallops, squid, and crab in a slightly spicy, tomato-based sauce and was served over angel hair pasta.
We skipped dessert this time, knowing that we had a pint of Ben & Jerry's ice cream waiting for us at home!
Ramona
704 N. Hewitt Dr.
Hewitt, TX 76643
254.420.3000
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
$$
Ramona: Lobster ravioli, salad, iced tea
Jim: Seafood combo, salad, iced tea
Shared: two baskets of rolls with butter
This was our third visit to Tomatoes, that unique little place in Hewitt that serves both Mexican and Italian dishes. We keep thinking we might try the Mexican side of the menu, but so far we've picked from the Italian side every time.
Fresh rolls and salad come with Italian dinners and we've commented before on the excellent bread. However, we were disappointed tonight that the bread was not warm. That didn't stop us from ordering a second basket! The salads are nothing special, just lettuce and a little bit of carrots. Tonight we both tried the house dressing, which had an unusual flavor. It reminded me of salsa.
Jim and I both tried new dishes tonight and were very pleased. My lobster ravioli was smothered in an excellent pink sauce that was very tasty. His seafood combo included mussels, shrimp, scallops, squid, and crab in a slightly spicy, tomato-based sauce and was served over angel hair pasta.
We skipped dessert this time, knowing that we had a pint of Ben & Jerry's ice cream waiting for us at home!
Ramona
Lunch -- 11/01/08
KFC #196
1030 N. Valley Mills Dr.
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.0131
1:30 - 2:00 p.m.
$
Ramona: 1 breast meal, mashed potatoes with gravy, cole slaw, biscuit, diet Pepsi
Jim: 3 pieces chicken (1 breast, 1 wing, 1 leg), biscuit, Dr. Pepper
To me, KFC will always be Kentucky Fried Chicken, and I LOVE the original recipe. A KFC chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, and cole slaw is the ultimate comfort meal. It's one of those meals that I sometimes get cravings for and today was the day.
When I mentioned to Jim that I was thinking about KFC, he said he had thought about it too! Luckily, Jim likes KFC, although we do go to Bush's much more often. Unfortunately for him, KFC was out of iced tea today. He had to settle for a Dr. Pepper instead.
Maybe it was the lateness of our meal (1:30) and the chicken had been sitting for a while. I don't know what the reason, but somehow it didn't taste as wonderful to me today. We both thought the breasts were smaller than usual as well. I hope it was just a bad day and not the beginning of a trend.
Ramona
1030 N. Valley Mills Dr.
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.0131
1:30 - 2:00 p.m.
$
Ramona: 1 breast meal, mashed potatoes with gravy, cole slaw, biscuit, diet Pepsi
Jim: 3 pieces chicken (1 breast, 1 wing, 1 leg), biscuit, Dr. Pepper
To me, KFC will always be Kentucky Fried Chicken, and I LOVE the original recipe. A KFC chicken breast, mashed potatoes with gravy, and cole slaw is the ultimate comfort meal. It's one of those meals that I sometimes get cravings for and today was the day.
When I mentioned to Jim that I was thinking about KFC, he said he had thought about it too! Luckily, Jim likes KFC, although we do go to Bush's much more often. Unfortunately for him, KFC was out of iced tea today. He had to settle for a Dr. Pepper instead.
Maybe it was the lateness of our meal (1:30) and the chicken had been sitting for a while. I don't know what the reason, but somehow it didn't taste as wonderful to me today. We both thought the breasts were smaller than usual as well. I hope it was just a bad day and not the beginning of a trend.
Ramona
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Dinner -- 10/31/08
Chamberlain's Fish Market Grill
4525 Beltline Road
Dallas, TX 75001
972.503.3474
5:30 - 6:45 PM
http://www.chefchamberlain.com/
$$$$
Ramona: Lobster bisque, 1lb Maine Lobster, 8-oz. filet, mashed potatoes
Jim: Lobster bisque, 1lb Maine Lobster, 8-oz filet, mashed potatoes, coffee
Shared: Chateau Rolland-Maillet (French) 2005 (St. Emilion); Warm Chocolate Gateau
Ramona and I still needed to celebrate our 300th Saturday together while we were still in the 300th week. We also wanted to catch the last weekend of the Impressionist Masterpieces from the Art Institute of Chicago at the Kimball in Ft. Worth. Therefore, she decided to take Friday afternoon off so we could make a trip to the metroplex. We picked a good time, since the exhibit was not too crowded. Occasionally we had a minute or two wait for the crowd to clear from in front of some of the more spectacular paintings. We had seen most of these in Chicago a couple of years ago, and we are looking forward to another trip there next summer.
There are so many good restaurants to choose from in the metroplex, and it seems we go to Dallas much less frequently these days. Our primary reason for picking Chamberlain's Fish Market for this visit was that we had received an e-mail announcing a $25 steak and lobster dinner. That price included the steak and lobster, mashed potatoes, and bread and we figured that was a pretty good deal. Chamberlain's, along with its companion steakhouse, were two of our favorite haunts when Ramona lived in Addison. We have had many a fine dinner there.
The meal began with a delicious sourdough bread, fresh and warm, and a glass of wine. We each added a cup of the lobster bisque, which was served with a piece of garlic cheese bread and was excellent. The lobster was also very good, but we weren't too excited about the steak. It was better than some but not top notch. Jim theorized a special like this does not merit top grade prime filet mignon. Ramona enjoyed the mashed potatoes after she added some pepper, but Jim thought they were barely tepid. Jim also thought the gateau was dull and carboardy, although it tasted better if some of the chocolate sauce was scooped up with it.
St. Emilion is Jim's favorite Bordeaux, and since French wines are so rare on menus in Waco, we went with that, but we were mightily tempted by a bottle of Iron Horse Cabernet from California.
The server was competent and attentive, so no problems there, but next time we go to Chamberlain's we'll stick with their fish specialties. Nearby Sullivan's is still our first choice for steak.
-Jim and Ramona
4525 Beltline Road
Dallas, TX 75001
972.503.3474
5:30 - 6:45 PM
http://www.chefchamberlain.com/
$$$$
Ramona: Lobster bisque, 1lb Maine Lobster, 8-oz. filet, mashed potatoes
Jim: Lobster bisque, 1lb Maine Lobster, 8-oz filet, mashed potatoes, coffee
Shared: Chateau Rolland-Maillet (French) 2005 (St. Emilion); Warm Chocolate Gateau
Ramona and I still needed to celebrate our 300th Saturday together while we were still in the 300th week. We also wanted to catch the last weekend of the Impressionist Masterpieces from the Art Institute of Chicago at the Kimball in Ft. Worth. Therefore, she decided to take Friday afternoon off so we could make a trip to the metroplex. We picked a good time, since the exhibit was not too crowded. Occasionally we had a minute or two wait for the crowd to clear from in front of some of the more spectacular paintings. We had seen most of these in Chicago a couple of years ago, and we are looking forward to another trip there next summer.
There are so many good restaurants to choose from in the metroplex, and it seems we go to Dallas much less frequently these days. Our primary reason for picking Chamberlain's Fish Market for this visit was that we had received an e-mail announcing a $25 steak and lobster dinner. That price included the steak and lobster, mashed potatoes, and bread and we figured that was a pretty good deal. Chamberlain's, along with its companion steakhouse, were two of our favorite haunts when Ramona lived in Addison. We have had many a fine dinner there.
The meal began with a delicious sourdough bread, fresh and warm, and a glass of wine. We each added a cup of the lobster bisque, which was served with a piece of garlic cheese bread and was excellent. The lobster was also very good, but we weren't too excited about the steak. It was better than some but not top notch. Jim theorized a special like this does not merit top grade prime filet mignon. Ramona enjoyed the mashed potatoes after she added some pepper, but Jim thought they were barely tepid. Jim also thought the gateau was dull and carboardy, although it tasted better if some of the chocolate sauce was scooped up with it.
St. Emilion is Jim's favorite Bordeaux, and since French wines are so rare on menus in Waco, we went with that, but we were mightily tempted by a bottle of Iron Horse Cabernet from California.
The server was competent and attentive, so no problems there, but next time we go to Chamberlain's we'll stick with their fish specialties. Nearby Sullivan's is still our first choice for steak.
-Jim and Ramona
Dinner -- 10/28/08
Long John Silvers #31293
1801 N. Valley Mills Drive
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.1986
5:30-6:15 PM
http://www.ljsilvers.com/
$
Ramona: grilled tilapia, rice, french fries, cole slaw, hush puppies, breadstick, diet Pepsi
Jim: Combo basket, (2 fish, 3 chicken, french fries, hush puppies), cole slaw, iced tea
Another night of phone calls, running around, and busy work, so we opted for a rare fast-food dinner. We have always liked LJS, but it seems the chicken planks are shrinking, and the fish tasted watery this time, so we were a little disappointted. Ramona's dish was very good.
-Jim
1801 N. Valley Mills Drive
Waco, TX 76710
254.772.1986
5:30-6:15 PM
http://www.ljsilvers.com/
$
Ramona: grilled tilapia, rice, french fries, cole slaw, hush puppies, breadstick, diet Pepsi
Jim: Combo basket, (2 fish, 3 chicken, french fries, hush puppies), cole slaw, iced tea
Another night of phone calls, running around, and busy work, so we opted for a rare fast-food dinner. We have always liked LJS, but it seems the chicken planks are shrinking, and the fish tasted watery this time, so we were a little disappointted. Ramona's dish was very good.
-Jim
Dinner -- 10/27/08
Chili's Grill & Bar
5804 Bosque Blvd.
Waco, TX 76710
254.776.8330
http://www.chilis.com/
4.:45 - 5:30 PM
$$
Ramona: Margarita chicken, iced tea
Jim: Shrimp Alfredo, iced tea
We were a little pressed for time, since we had some errends to run before our campaign meeting at 6:30, so Chili's was the perfect choice.
The service was quick, and the food was delicious, the portions were just right, and our waiter kept us in ice tea and lemons very nicely.
-Jim
5804 Bosque Blvd.
Waco, TX 76710
254.776.8330
http://www.chilis.com/
4.:45 - 5:30 PM
$$
Ramona: Margarita chicken, iced tea
Jim: Shrimp Alfredo, iced tea
We were a little pressed for time, since we had some errends to run before our campaign meeting at 6:30, so Chili's was the perfect choice.
The service was quick, and the food was delicious, the portions were just right, and our waiter kept us in ice tea and lemons very nicely.
-Jim
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