On today's menu are a few
of our favorites. Over the
years Frank and I have
been served by some
truly amazing people.
They made our lives better, and we will
never forget them.
THE CLARMONT
this joint was one of the few things I liked. Great steaks and an ice cream roll to die for! The atmosphere was a smoky mix
of Rat Pack and Miami Vice. Food and decor aside, great service kept us coming back.
"Vi" our waitress was a cocktail clairvoyant!
Our eyes met, she winked, and presto -
A Knob Creek Manhattan on the rocks!
Last year, after serving memories for over 65 years, The Clarmont closed. Just another reason to never return to Columbus again!
************************************************************
The first time we dined at this cafe' on Second and 50th, we were seated in a cozy booth. On the wall hung a picture of the owner in a place that looked oddly familiar. When we queried Ernesto about where it was taken he said -
"That is my most favorite place
in the world... Mont-taanaa".
And at that moment we had made a
new friend in Manhattan! Turns out
that every fall Ernesto goes to nearby
Geyser to hunt grouse. Small world!
************************************************************
One day Frank dragged me to concrete monolith located at the far (and isolated) end of Chicago's Wentworth Avenue.
Thank God he made me go in.
Because it was there that we met a waiter named "Ken". A savvy server who immediately sensed that we were foodies willing to eat anything.
Crispy shrimp with head/shell
Tender beef tendon.
Pea pod tips (Leaves)
Delicate, fragrant lily bulbs
Giant oysters with black beans
Luscious chicken feet
Ken truly changed
our lives forever.
************************************************************
THE MANSION AT TURTLE CREEK
In 1980 I took my first trip to Dallas and dined at the newly opened Mansion.
Who knew that 30 years later it would become one of my favorite haunts?
Yes, it's posh. Absolutely, totally, and completely posh.
But it's also just about the most friendly place I've frequented.
Ryan, the director of the restaurant as always was there to welcome us.
Not only is he an elegant and cordial host, he truly cares and connects.
Kindly remembering our names and tiny details about our lives.
Stephanie, our adored waitress (and friend) tearfully cared for us. What can I say beyond "FABULOUS"? Intuitively she knew I preferred brandied cherries in my Manhattan. That Frank adored the Cauliflower Panna Cotta with Caviar! And... that we would both opt for the fresh Dover Sole Meuniere.
************************************************************
These are but a few
of the many who have made our lives better.
You can get great food, drink, and atmosphere many places.
Even Lewistown, Montana!
Mary, Brad, and Maria always make dining at The Mint a pleasure.
Quality people, who really care, are the reason we come back.
