Great Food, Nightclub Feel, Frank Sinatra at Houlihan's??? Yes!

Picture this: it is Sunday evening and time for a little dinner.  If you are in the mood for some great food and want to relax in a nightclub type atmosphere where do you go?  Houlihan's in Schererville, Indiana?  Yup, we did, but only after a little notice by the great email marketing of our local Houlihan's Restaurant.  We were at an event all day and really needed to just stop and relax.  We decided to take up the offer by Houlihan's to be entertained while enjoying some great food.  It worked!  We were seated promtly after telling the hostess that we would like to be seated so we could hear the entertainment of Jim Bulanda, a local vocalist and singer of not only Frank Sinatra, but also Tony Bennett, Dean Martin and Neil Diamond songs.  We saw Jim as we walked in toting his one man band set of speakers, and a DJ set-up to play the music that would become his big band support for the night.

We ordered our apetizer, a special price of $6 for the Houlihan's great stuffed and fried mushroom caps stuffed with herb and garlic cream cheese, coated in distinctly crunchy panko bread crumbs and crisp-fried. Served with cream horseradish sauce. Our server Chris brought them quickly and we enjoyed them while waiting for our dinners. I really think you could make a meal just out of the mushrooms. They were hot, delicious and we were sad to leave two on our dish to leave room for salad and dinner.

We arrived that night at 6:45 and before we knew it, our food arrived and Jim began singing his first selection of Frank Sinatra right at 7 p.m. Wow, where were we again?  I looked around and yes, we were still inside the local Houlihan's restaurant in Schererville! 

As Jim sang the song you could really close your eyes and picture yourself in Las Vegas enjoying a stage show.  Jim does a great job of hitting those memorable notes as well as depicting each singers essence. 

Our salads arrived and Jodi's Tuscan salad looked interesting layered with goat cheese, tomatoes, rosemary white beans, balsamic field greens and focaccia crisps. She ate it all and said that the flavors were excellent. My Caesar salad was crisp and fresh and all tossed well to coat the entire salad. It's not hard and Houlihan's seems to have a nice handle on taking that extra 15 seconds to make it right. The flavor was great with added shredded mozzarella on top.

As we enjoyed our salads, Jim walked around our table giving a little nod or wink each time. He is an entertainer and drew the crowd into what he was providing for the night all the while mixing up Frank, Dean and Tony ballots with ease.

Our meals arrived and Jodi tried the special fish dish offered that evening and I chose the Stuffed Chicken Breast using that same delicious garlic-herb cream cheese as was in the stuffed mushrooms. It also was breaded and baked golden brown and served with green beans and mashed potatoes. Yes, I only left a little mashed potatoes on my plate. Jodi's fish was

We relaxed after dinner as I moved over to sit next to Jodi to get a better view of Jim singing. We were not rushed off and that allowed me to order a drink while Jodi ordered her 2nd martini. Again, Chris checked on us several times and she knew we were enjoying the show. I ordered my second Kahlua on the rocks and was impressed how both drinks were served in a tall "rocks" glass and completely filled with ice (like it should be)! The drink just looked fresh and appealing, and it was just Kahlua poured over ice! But folks, I'm telling you, there is a difference in the type of glass used, the size of the cubes and the amount of ice offered. Again, taking that little attention to detail to offer the right drink. I was very happy! 

We gave Jim one of our business cards and complimented his entertainment. He offered some discussion inbetween songs and while announcing the band or the arrangement. This also added to the overall affect since the Rat Pack boys always complimented the band after they sang a song.

Jim sings all over the area and you can view his schedule at his website: http://www.tributetofrank.com/ This was top notch entertainment and all at no charge! Our hats go off to our local Houlihan's for offering some entertainment at the local resturant. There were not huge crowds, but it looked like a busier than normal Sunday evening. Perhaps Jim's second performance there the Saturday after Thanksgiving will pack them in. Either way, we'll be there again to enjoy some great entertainment, great service and wonderful food offered by Houlihan's. Learn more about Houlihan's and view their menu at http://www.houlihans.com/  -Rick Bella, for Fooding Around
This restaurant deserves 5 forks! Our highest award.

Photos are from Jim Bulanda's website.

Want Italian? You have to go to Gamba Ristorante in Merrillville!!

From Cafe Venezia and Venezia Bar & Grill came Gamba Restorante.  Perhaps one of the most unique resturants in the area.  The restaurant is housed in an architectural masterpiece with a circular design and center courtyard.  You will NOT feel like you are in Merrillville, Indiana.  It was the perfect spot to surprise Jodi with a small dinner party for her birthday!  

Benito and Hilda Gamba are the owners of Gamba and sat us inside the exclusive "wine room" (with storage of 1,000 bottles), for dinner making the night even that much more special.  Gamba's, now also managed by their daughter Michelle and Krystal make this family owned establishment really work.  They all have great personalities and when you dine there, it is truely like being inside their home for dinner.  

The food Italian cuisine with many favorites as well as some daily surprises offered by the chef.  All six of our dinners were outstanding as well as the great service offered by Mary.  She introduced herself which as you know is always a nice start for us.  Bob then introduced each of us by first name!  Yes, we have fun with our servers and Mary stood up to us and made the evening that much more enjoyable. 

I ordered my favorite dish, the Filettino Di Maiale - a delicious grilled Berkshire Pork Tenderloin with Soy White Clover Honey Reduction, Finished with Toasted Sesame Seeds ($25).  The dish was perfectly prepared with wonderful flavor profiles.  Side dish was garlic mashed potatoes as I ordered the tasty side of red cabbage.  The tastes blended together to explode with each bite.  A fresh and crispy baby romain wedge started my night with ample Caesar salad dressing and great flavor ($7).  

Naturally a bread and cracker basket with Extra Virgin Olive Oil was provided on the table as well as the house diced tomatoes with oil, balsamic vinegar & spices to top your bread and crackers.

Jodi had the Tagliatelle All'aragost, a ribbon shaped pasta with Lobster, Spinach, Nutmeg in a Lobster Cream reduction ($18).  She ordered it on the spicy side and said it was wonderful.  She started her dinner with the Insalata Di Barba - sliced beets with gorgonzola cheese and roasted walnuts.  I didn't get a chance to try it myself since it was gone so quickly!  Bob had the same salad while Patty opted for the bowl of Zuppa Di Fagioli Con Sedano ($5), a bean soup with celery, vegetable broth and olive oil.  Now I did notice that Bob got some of that when Patty was finished!

From Bob: Have you ever heard of a laughing wine room? Saturday night at Gamba's, the wine room was full of laughter and cheer as we celebrated Jodi's XX birthday. The silence of the resting wine bottles was broken for about 2 hours as we wine'd and dine'd on the best Italian food in the region!  Calling Patty's simple bean & celery soup, simple, doesn't do it justice. Gamba's takes a simple soup and elevates it to the masterpiece level. My marinated beets, gorgonzola cheese and roasted walnut salad was magnificent and plentiful. So as not to be rude or appear gluttonous, I did not order a second helping of the salad. I easily could have!

After my spaghetti Carbonara arrived, I sat speechless for at least several minutes as I gleefully devoured this dish of pasta eggs, & Italian becon. I won the clean plate award for the evening. Patty's order of pasta, lobster and spinach in a cream sauce was tall, dark and handsome... I mean full and appetizing. I knew from the size of the plate that I'd be having some Tagliatelle All'aragost tomorrow. Patty really enjoyed her dish and my meal the next day was a scant appetizer, not the hefty left-overs I usually get.    

Carol and Joe joined us for dinner and Carol is a chef who owns Gourmet Express Services in Valparaiso.  She was very impressed with the evening and also had the Romaine salad wedge and same entree as Jodi.  Joe ordered the Porterhouse steak, a great choice called on the menu: Bistecca All Fiorentina, a 20 oz. Signature Porterhouse ($33).  We asked Joe how it was since when we looked up there was a clean bone sitting on his plate!!  He said it was great and it certainly looked great when it was brought to the table. 

Mary decanted a nice bottle of red wine for all to share during dinner and we all enjoyed a wonderful dining experience with great food to go with the great company.  Jodi's desert even had a candle placed on it so we could sing a verse of Happy Birthday! 

So, when you crave some great Italian food or have a need for a special celebration, head to Gamba Ristorante in Merrillville.  They are located at 455 East 84th Drive.  Reservations are recommended and are easy by calling 219-736-5000.  You may also visit them online at http://www.gambaristorante.com/ where you can view the lunch and dinner menus. 

Keep up the great work Bennie, Hilda, Michelle and Krystal as well as all of the other great staff they have assembled for us all to enjoy!  We give this establishment our highest honor of five forks!!  Rick Bella-for Fooding Around-Indiana 

   

Galena Garlic comes to Valparaiso, Indiana

If you have ever traveled to Galena, Illinois, you might recall the wonderful shops that line the downtown streets. One shop is the Galena Garlic Company.  This store offers some of the most interesting spices we have ever seen like Gourmet Garlic Blends, carefully mixed right there in Galena.  These blends will transform any food dish into a wonderful experience.  Olive oils, and our favorite Balsamic Vinegar are also offered. 

The Bellas visited Galena over a year ago and struck up a conversation with one of the owners named Laszlo Marton, a charismatic person with a joy for life. He also just happens to be a wedding photographer in Illinois! This fact naturally sparked an instant friendship between the Bella's and Laszlo and immediately the stories started flowing of weddings they had photographed and places they traveled.

Bella's, also being "Foodies" found the Garlic Store interesting. Naturally, they purchased a bunch of items to try and upon their arrival home were quickly in the kitchen trying new and exciting recipes using the Gourmet Garlic Blends.

Since then, Bella's have relocated their photography studio into a larger space at the old "White House" of Valparaiso, Indiana with plenty of room for (you guessed it) Garlic Blends! What, you might ask... but why not.  The studio is located in a great spot with easy access to parking from Morgan Blvd. The soon to be Garlic displays will certainly attract partrons with the same "love of life" that both Laszlo and the Bella's share.  "It ties in a little", Rick Bella offered. If you enjoy photography, artwork, and the "good life"; you will also be interested in these wonderful Garlic Blends!

Plan to stop by soon to see the new display inside the Bella Studio at 303 Jefferson Street in Valparaiso, Indiana. While you are there, you can view wonderful artwork by Sandhi Schimmel-Gold. See Bella artwork for sale and view all of the photographs on display. Then, taste some new and exciting Olive Oils, Balsamic Vinegars and try a package or two of Gourmet Garlic Blends. Now how does that sound for a Sunday afternoon?

Learn more about Galena Garlic at http://www.galenagarlic.com/ or more about what the Bella's are up to at http://www.bellaphotographs.com/ or visit their blog at http://bellaseeds.blogspot.com/ 

Jelly Pancake holding firm on taste, quality and service

Status Update on Jelly Pancake:

Okay, so it's been a few weeks now. The hoopla of opening is over and we are so pleased to see that the Jelly Pancake House continues to offer great food, great service at reasonable prices.
Way to go all. These owners know how to run a restaurant. Still clean with friendly, fast service. We wish them continued success and we will continue to send folks there who all continue to rave like we have all along.

They have plans for building a free standing building on 93rd Avenue off of Broadway. Best of luck and keep your cozy feel, great quality and fast service and you will do great there too.

Folks... you really need to give this place a try. They offer left over boxes... can you believe it, at a breakfast place. So, for a relaxing great breakfast, try Jelly Pancake in Merrillville.

Location: in the strip mall across from Portillo's on U.S. Route 30 and Broadway. Open 7 days per week from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. See other blog posting below for opening comments.

As mentioned in the past... a four fork rating is really the best since this restaurant is only open for breakfast and lunch and with limited hours of operation.  7 to 3 daily.  Check them out.

Rick Bella, for Fooding Around, Merrillville, IN

Jelly Pancake House - Yes another breakfast joint, but read on...

Okay, so we knew that the Ole' Mexican Food spot at 399 E. 81st Ave in Merrillville had numbered days due to the opening of Chipotle Mexican Grill in front of the Mall on Route 30. And sadly, they did close their doors a couple of months ago. We ate there a few times and the food was okay, but not really superior as compared to the tuned in offerings at the McDonald's owned Chipotle.

So as we drove by to get our morning bagel at Panera we wondered what might go into the end spot of the strip mall. We then noticed a sign reading: "Coming Soon, Jelly Pancake House!" What? A pancake restaurant located there? In the world of retail shops and Panera?

As we watched the remodeling going on we couldn't help but think of the close by House of Pancakes that recently closed. It was behind the Applebee's on 83rd Ave and Broadway also in Merrillville. So we wished the Jelly Pancake well as we saw the progress with the remodeling.

Jodi and I stopped in within days of the opening for breakfast. So what do you get at a pancake house, you guessed it, pancakes... and big 'ol fluffy ones at that! They were great! I also had sausage links and they were also prepared right and were very tasty. Our endless coffee was good and many waitresses and others were quick to keep the cups full. Although the menu called for only two cakes on a short stack, both of our orders had three stacked high on the plate. Okay, so I know you are thinking that anyone can make pancakes, right? Wrong... how many times have you had some flat, hard pancakes that would not even soak up the syrup? These were great...
As we ate our breakfast I noticed another table with fluffy omelettes... so I had already decided that I was coming back to try that in the future.

I met my buddy Steve there for lunch this week. I figured, here we go, now I will be able to see how this lunch menu works and really put them to the test. Steve ordered the ham club sandwich. And yours truely, you guessed it, got the Western Omelette. Breakfast for lunch? Sure... I like breakfast food anytime. Steve's sandwich was absolutely great... stacked high with meat, and the other typical items like lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, etc. It was all bundled nicely and held together with long picks. Served with fries, it was a hearty meal for sure.

My omelette, was made with four eggs, fluffed nicely and stuffed with ham, green peppers, onions and cheese. It also had a surprise, diced fresh tomatoes! The potatoes were wedges of B-Sized new red potatoes seasoned with salt/garlic. They were great! All ingredients were fresh! And me being the "Produce Guy" for 30-years can certainly tell freshness. My omlette was so large that I didn't even finish it! I know, right... it was stuffed full of ingredients. We both ordered a drink, me coffee, Steve had iced tea. Our total tab was just over $18.

Service was outstanding and our server was attentive, friendly and seemed to know her job well which is unusal for a new establishment. She often asked if we needed anything else since Steve and I tied up the table for some time, like two girls catching up about their boyfriends. Okay, so Steve and I had not been out in a while! The service however not amature hour at Jelly, the owners have served a few meals in their day and also own Gino's, both in Schererville and the new Gino's Steak and Seafood in Merrillville on Route 30 so they have a good grasp on customer service. "Hey, you hungry, I fix somthing"... oh so sorry! I can't help it!

Jelly Pancake House is open 7-days per week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you go: dress casual, come hungry and leave very content. The food is excellent and these owners are there running their business. Like it should be! I will be going back to Jelly and I bet often. Plenty of parking is available to the south of the strip mall area as the regular lot seems to fill up pretty fast.

Jelly offers a full line of breakfast favorites and an nice variety of lunch items as well. Give it a try... you will be glad that you did.

399 E. 81st Ave, inside the Panera Bread strip mall (corner of U.S. Route 30 and Broadway), in Merrillville, Indiana (219-736-0100). Management is Steve Vlahos with other contacts being Martha Emmanoilidis and Nick Vlahos. "Nick, Nick, Nickie"... sorry I digressed. Four Fork rating from me, it would have been five, but I had to back off a little due to the limited menu and limited hours of operation... enjoy! Okay, I'll get into Gino's next!

Egg On Your Face - Disappointments Galore!

"Egg on your Face" is a breakfast place fairly new in Portage. It is located at 6295 Ameriplex Drive where all of those cool new things have opened like the Ameriplex Theater, Bass Pro Shop and a host of other eateries and shoppes.

Bob and Patty traveled there on Monday, May 25th, Memorial Day, with a party of six all in their family out for a nice breakfast. They arrived around 10 a.m. and found no host or greeter on duty, no manager, and about 20 people waiting to be seated. After their wait of 55 minutes their food finally arrived. From Bob: "The hash browns were cold, as were my pancakes. The milk that was placed on the table almost an hour earlier was now warm. I asked for a replacement but was told by our waitress that she thought that they were out of milk, but she would run over to Steak and Lube for some.

As we were waiting for our food, four other tables simply got up and left. One table could not seem to get their bill so they could pay and nobody in the whole restaurant was happy! Nobody on staff seemed to care. As I paid our bill I asked to speak to a manager. None were available! I was told to call Robert or Rebecca.

After a few days to cool down, I called Robert and explained what happened. Oh well! Robert said somebody would call back in 15 minutes. It is now 4 p.m. on Thursday, June 18th and still no call. Nobody cares that I spent over $50 at their restaurant. Well, now a lot more people know how bad it was and that nobody cares. When this place closes (and it will unless they clean up their act), I will LOL and say they really have "Egg of their Face"!"

You may visit their website at: www.eggonyourfaceportage.com They are open daily from 6 to 2. We hope you have a better experience.

In the mood for Mexican? You have to go to La Carreta!

Okay, so our secret is out and that's okay (I guess). La Carreta Mexican Restaurant is located in Merrillville, Indiana inside the K-Mart Shopping plaza area off of U.S. Route 30. The address is 269-275 West Lincoln Highway. It is by far some of the best Mexican food we have ever eaten. The service at this good size restaurant is amazing and all act like family.

Jamie is the manager and is always watchful of what is going on inside the approximately 5,000 sq foot area. The food is simply outstanding and you are served plenty of it! You will NOT leave La Carreta hungry. The free chips and freshly made salsa (I like free stuff) is delicious and has been consistent each time we attend. The salsa has a little "zip" but you can cool that easily with one of their fantastic Margaretta's. Plenty of potency inside all drinks will make you happy.

Service is quick and attentive and all servers are friendly and seem to want to give you a great dining experience. They do too!

Okay, for the food... the menu is packed with variety. Perhaps one of the most extensive menus in the area. I have tried many dishes and one of my personal favorites is the Spicy Steak Tacos. Wow... these are so flavorful and as the description highlights "spicy". Prepared in a red chili sauce, these tacos will leave you wanting more. Cheese, tomatoes, lettuce can be added at no additional cost, but even plain, the meat is tender chunks of steak and very meaty. You won't have a single bite without meat with these tacos, they are loaded! Served with beans and Spanish rice, this dish will please the heartiest appetite.

Jodi is usually more adventurous then I am and last week tried the Shrimp Casadeasias. More from Jodi:

Diners secret: Restaurant.com

Okay, so you might be a little tight on cash for dining out! Not to worry... you can save BIG by using a little tool called: restaurant.com

This site allows you to select a restaurant in your area and then print discounted gift certificates to allow you to save $$$. You can purchase a $10 gift certificate for $3 or at times $2... that's a pretty good savings. I'll trade a couple of bucks for a ten spot all day long!

And to help you cover your entire dinner for two or more diners... you can purchase a $25 gift certificate for only $10. Yes... just $10. Restaurant.com is in the business of introducing restaurants to the community. What better way to do that than offer a discount so you can enjoy dinner at one of your local spots.

So, do yourself a favor and visit the site. You can save big on dining out. Nothing to be embarassed about when it comes to saving. Dining out doesn't have to be expensive. Enjoy!

Shopping in Oak Brook... you have to eat at Maggiano's...

Jodi and I were in Oak Brook last Sunday for a photography seminar. We were just across the street from the Oak Brook Mall... so naturally given the dinner hour I suggested Maggiano's. Jodi didn't put up a fight and off we were for some fine Italian food. Service with a smile from Diane and a wonderful dining experience continued.

More to come to this post soon.

Lighthouse Restaurant - New bright spot in Cedar Lake, Indiana

From Bob: After looking at Dean White's new restaurant menu, I was disappointed that there was nothing new or exciting on the menu. The dining experience at the Lighthouse on Cedar Lake (in Indiana) sure was NOT disappointing. Although the menu is basic with steaks, seafood, burgers, salads, and sandwiches, every item we tried was excellent.
The decor is new, crisp, clean and nautical. The servers, mostly seasoned veterans from other restaurants were friendly, prompt, and well informed about the menu offerings and recipes. The prices were reasonable, the portions ample, the taste outstanding, and the location on the lake scenic.
We are looking forward to dining on the outdoor patio when the weather allows. All four of us agreed that a return trip was assured. And even to watch the sun set slowly in the West.
From Rick: This place is brand new... only open for about a week when we went for dinner. What a great location and new building. The design is outstanding and we all had the feeling that we were on vacation, not really in Cedar Lake, Indiana. Dean White and crew did an outstanding job with the design. We sat in the more casual area surrounding the lounge/bar area but there is also plenty of tables inside the dining room that appeared to be a little more quiet with a great fine dining atmosphere. We think the casual are will be popular since windows were wrapped around allowing lake views from many different angles.
The food, although simplistic was flavorful. Our server (Pam) offered that they were keeping the menu simple to start with but offered that additional items may be offered later once kitchen staff were trained inside the state of the art food preparation areas. This seemed like a very smart business approach and we look forward to new menu selections or even "catch of the day" type offerings.
Attention to detail was on display all over right down to the proper sized wine glasses, heavy silverware, and over sided serving dishes. One issue we all noticed was the lack of garnishes anywhere on the plates. Jodi ordered the 8 oz. Filet ($18) and it was served in the center of a huge plate with nothing else on the dish. It was double plated since the meat was finished off inside the oven and arrived "sizzling" making for a great "sound" presentation, but the lack of anything else was a disappointment. It sparked conversations and we all felt that premium prices needed some additional presentation details... fruit, kale, cute sauce spread, etc. could all have added to the plate without much cost increase. Even Jodi and I have those squeeze bottles at home and add drizzles of flair to our plates at home when entertaining.
The lack of flair didn't affect Jodi's steak eating at all though and the steak was prepared perfectly. She ate the entire steak! So garnish or not, the taste was great.
I tried the Single Pork Loin Chop ($14) which arrived atop of the mile high pile of garlic smashed potatoes. The Chop was cooked perfectly and the server informed me that they cook it to 140 degrees meaning that there would be little "pink" inside. I asked for her to make it medium well which didn't dry the meat at all. I just don't care for the pink in my pork. The flavor was wonderful in this bone-in dish. The chop was thick and juicy and perhaps the best Chop I have had at a restaurant in years.
Bob and I ordered the Onion Scoops appetizer to share and it was good and ample quantity. The girls tried some too. It was $6 and we all agreed that we would order it again. It was a familiar take off from the "Bloomin' Onion" found at Outback Steak House and was served with a homemade Chipolte ranch sauce. I little mild, but good.
Overall, we all enjoyed our meals and the wonderful setting. Thank you Dean White for another great Northwest Indiana establishment. We will be back soon and look forward to additional menu items and outdoor seating. Plan on about $25 per person (not including drinks) to cover your entree and salad, perhaps an appetizer.
If you go: casual dress is fine. See the menu by clicking here: Lighthouse Menu
Visit their website for additional data here: Cedar Lake Lighthouse Restaurant

Svago Cafe in Dyer offers good food in a casual atmosphere

It was a nice Friday night and our first day of the year at over 70 degrees. Jodi and I took a short drive around St. John, Schererville and they Dyer. It was dinner time and our sights were set on trying out the Svago Cafe located in Dyer (1103 Joliet Road). When we first entered it was little confusing to us since there was an order counter and a slight resemblance to a fast food restaurant. But we were soon asked if we wanted a table and then could view the nicely decorated dining room. We later concluded that the design was a great idea serving both to go customers and a lighter lunch crowd at the counter but then the restaurant transformed into a full service restaurant for evening dining. What a great idea. Naturally some of the other "look and feel" remained and although there was a trash area for lunchtime self table cleaning, it really was placed in a way as to not be intrusive to diner guests.

Our server, Cathy as she announced and was displayed on her name tag (something we like to see) was pleasant and attentive. Although we did notice that the way that they split tables between different servers was a bit odd since Cathy was waiting on table all over the dining room and was not focused on a specific serving area. It did lead to some small waits at times, but not enough to be that annoying. Perhaps a different way to assign tables is needed.

Jodi opted for the additional charge Signature House Salad (2.95) and I had a cup of the Lobster Bisque soup. Jodi's salad was fresh and included crisp smoked bacon, fresh cucumber, tomato and red onions served atop gourmet field greens with shaved parmesan cheese on top and a dressing of your choice. She enjoyed her salad. My cup of soup, (2.95 with entree) although flavorful, was a bit thick and I found myself using it more as a dip than eating it as a soup. The delicious bread that accompanied my soup was great dipped in the soup (I know, really not proper table etiquette but it sure tasted good).

Service was prompt and fresh cracked pepper was offered by Cathy. We both enjoyed a glass of wine (name) with our meal and found the pricing reasonable on the extensive wine selection.

Our dinners came out together and hot. Jodi ordered the Jumbo Beef Ravioli. As described on the menu: Pillows of fresh pasta stuffed with beef and covered in garlic marinara sauce topped with basil Parmesan cheese and flame roasted peppers and onions. (10.95)

From Jodi:

I ordered the Garlic Butter Parmesan Shrimp described as Jumbo shrimp stuffed with butter, Parmesan cheese and garlic. Served with bow-tie pasta and garlic pesto Alfredo sauce (12.95). My entree sounded better than it was. My shrimp were tasty and well seasoned, but the pasta itself was bland and sure lacked any garlic taste at all. I left almost all of my pasta on the dish (something that I never do). The shrimp were presented well and with the skins pulled down and around the shrimp. A very nice presentation, but a bit lacking on the seasonings. I would not order it again unless assured that the taste profile was corrected.

Overall our experience was positive and we loved the versatility that the restaurant offered. There is even some entertainment most nights and that information is posted on their website. Click here for the MENU. You will find it offer enough variety to please most diners.

If you go: Casual dress is fine but expect nice dishware, wine glasses and good service. There was plenty of manager/owner types being attentive to the needs of the dining room. Nice music complemented our experience and the decor was very relaxing. We loved the big colorful hanging lights and other complements around the walls. We will certainly go back to try different dishes.

Bartlett's on Route 12 - Casual Fine Dining? Still finding itself!

We took a leisurely drive east on U.S. Route 12 to Beverly Shores, named after Fredrick Bartlett’s daughter. Bartlett was a pioneer in the area, just as the owners of Miller Bakery Café and Bistro 157 hope to be. Bartlett’s is an old, converted roadside bar. Décor was sparse, but the foodie fare was near high-end. We were disappointed that with entrees priced between $13 and $22.50, our soup or salad was an additional $5 to $8. Bob felt that this roadside bar, serving macaroni & cheese ($13), corn dogs ($5) and burgers ($9.50), was overpriced.

We felt that the chef felt his dishes were already perfectly cooked because mustard & catsup were the only condiments on the table. No salt or peppershakers! At least we did not notice any.

From Bob: “My Low Country Shrimp with Tasso Ham and White Cheddar Grits ($21) was well prepared with bits of red pepper, onions, and a mild cream sauce. It was tasty, but the presentation was bland. The food was served in a large pasta bowl with a bare 3-inch rim. A colorful garnish on the rim would have made the dish more visually appealing and perhaps justified the meal price. The shrimp were very good and the mild white cheddar sauce gave the normally dull grits a nice taste. The Tasso Ham is a Cajun spiced ham with a little “zing.” Not hot, but with medium heat.

Patty’s Shrimp and Linguine ($18) smelled of iodine and the smell permeated the rest of the dish. The food looked tempting but the iodine smell was offensive. I don’t think we would make a dedicated return trip for the over-priced “gourmet grilled grub”.

Jodi enjoyed her Penne Pasta special ($16) with smoked beef and cream sauce, and offered that the plain dish (same dish as Bob’s) offered a “simplistic look” without the entire dish clutter. She offered that those garnishes could be found at 157 or Miller Bakery Café. Her dish was also spicy but not over bearing. We (the other three in our group) gave her hell for the comment and offered that something (even not expensive garnish) should have been added to the dishes. She actually loved her meal and brought home a little for the next day.

From Rick: “I enjoyed the Northwood’s Whitefish encrusted in pecans. The sauce was a homemade tarter but very mild. It complimented the fish nicely and this dish was reasonability priced at $14.50. It was served on a bed of smashed potatoes that lacked something… they were okay, but nothing worth writing about. I would have added a little garlic (always great with fish) or perhaps some butter and salt. The fish was prepared correctly and the taste with the breading was very mild and woodsy.”

Other delights that we tried were the Jam Packed Jar of House Pickles and Olives ($5), the Corndog appetizers (4 of them in the order) $5, and the Breadsticks with three different sauces ($7). All were good, but we were a bit disappointed in the Jelly Jar Packed with Pickles & Olives. I guess we were expecting something different.

We shared a bottle of Santa Alicia Malbec Red Wine ($24) and it was tasty with all of the different dishes. Bob drank a diet cola and was informed that it was not Coke or Pepsi branded product. Bob could tell. Not sure, what that is all about, but we all feel that any restaurant with a bar or offering drinks need to have Coke products. Rum and Coke, Jack and Coke, etc. Nobody wants a generic cola and Jack Daniels. The two shouldn’t even be mixed together, right? Even if Coca Cola products cost a little more, come on, what about taste? All ingredients should be the best for the use intended.

Our dessert was delicious, a fresh berry topped tart. Jodi and Bob enjoyed it much. Patty and Rick were too full and really would have had a Chocolate item, but Jodi tried something different.

What’s hot about this place?
• Our server, named Christy did an excellent job and you should ask for her by name. She was funny, bright, and attentive to our needs. She even put up with our goofy table, so she has to be good! Her sidekick (no name) girl was right on top of the dirty dishes and we joked about how we needed to eat fast before she removed the fork from our mouths. (really she was not that bad, but fast enough for us to notice)
• Come as you are… dress code was casual
• Good food (except for the iodine smelling shrimp that Patty had)
• Nice ride… not much really around there, so most will travel a bit. The ride there is a nice one and will be especially nice this spring, summer, and fall
• Plenty of parking
• Full wide menu sure to please almost anyone

What’s not so hot?
• Just a little pricy. (picture Randy from American Idol “I don’t know dude, it was a little pitchy”. Replace “pitchy with pricy”. It’s not Bistro 157, but had that feel on the price side.
• Sparse décor at this point and bad view of trash bins right outside the east side windows. We are sure this will be enclosed at some point, but looks nasty now.
• Parking area not yet paved. Granted, waiting for weather to do that. Once that is done, parking will be a nice area.
• Limited seating area, although Christy informed us that they are opening a patio area to seat another 50 or so. She said that at times the place really fills up quickly. We could see why.
• Missing something… that little extra attention to detail. Not sure, what it is, but it felt unfinished. Missing some lighting, candles, something.
• Music loud if you are close to the speakers. Additional speakers would assist here, nice music, but a bit loud. (attention to detail again… just not quite there)

On our 5-fork scale (five being the best) we would have to give this a 2 ½ at this point in time. To be fair, we’ll plan another trip in a couple of months. We all noticed a ton of potential and can’t wait to see how they “finish up”. Website link to the right, and the site includes all that you need to know to attend. Bon Appetite.

Click here to see Bartlett's lunch, dinner and take out menus: MENUS

How to turn a White Elephant into a White Rhino (Dyer Bar and Grill makes the grade)

Okay, so it was a Tuesday night and we wanted to try something new. We had all heard of a new place called White Rhino and noticed their billboards around town. So we headed to Dyer to check it out. We were disappointed in our last outing to Highland just two weeks earlier, so expectations were high. The place was packed... our first good sign that this place might pan out. And did it ever!The White Rhino really converted a "white elephant", which used to be the old Jewel Food Store, into a bustling spot. It has sat empty for years and it was a real treat to see some of the vast space renovated and turned into this great bar and grill. It was a great example of what can be done with existing buildings in towns across Lake and Porter counties in Indiana.
Who would have thought we would've had to wait for a table at an old abandoned Jewel Food store in Dyer on a rainy Tuesday evening? The White Rhino, aptly named after a white rhino sets inside a section of the long closed Jewel store on US 30 just west of Hart street. Every table and bar stool was occupied this evening and Justin, our waiter said "it's like this every night". Our excellent service and great food explained why.

Since Bob and Rick tend to expand as they eat, we moved from a cramped booth to a chaired table that we needed for the plethora of food that soon came. The extensive wine list provided libations for three of us and Bob started on his first of many free refills of Diet Pepsi, his NA cocktail of choice.

Bob's cup of chicken noodle soup was refreshing with small noodles and bits of chicken and all the necessary veggies. We all shared a thin crust pizza as an appetizer, a 10 inch full of veggies and mozzarella. A great start to a great meal.

After taking some time reviewing the extensive menu, we all discussed our meal choices. Patty chose the BBQ rib basket complete with seasoned fries and coleslaw, Jodi opted for the Tilapia ($11.99) while Bob went for the all you can eat (AYCE) pasta bar where Chef Randy prepared your selections right in front of you. You may also fill out an order form and the server will turn it in for you. The pasta bar is available each Tuesday evening. Rick kept coming back to the 3-cheese stuffed chicken breast and finally decided to try it.

Patty must have enjoyed her 1/2 slab of BBQ pork ribs ($8.99) because she hardly said a word during the meal! She offered that they were great, tasty and that she would order them again. A real sign that we use to see if something was really good or not! Hey, if you wouldn't order it again, then why, right? Jodi loved her fish selection and the portion was huge. It was cooked just right and was very tasty. All of us shared tastes back and forth, well all of us except Patty... she was so busy enjoying her ribs that she hardly stopped for much of anything else. But, you know, once you get into ribs, it is hard to stop, lick your fingers, etc. You might as well keep at them; and she did! There was plenty of food to share as portions were generous.

Bob's AYCE pasta bowl ($12.99) was overflowing with farfalle (bowtie) pasta, andoulle sausage, shrimp, Italian sausage, garlic & onions, and a tasty Alredo sauce. It was AYCE, but one huge bowl was all that he could "musterd", (foodie joke), and Bob isn't a small guy. Justin (our server) was at our table so often checking on us, he became part of the family. No seriously, his service was attentive but not over-bearing.

Rick's chicken breast was huge and packed full of flavor. Justin informed us that it was really stuffed with 5 different cheeses, not the three as described on the menu. That explained the flavor explosion during each bite. The sauce on this dish was to die for, and Rick used all of it to smoother each bite.

After our meal was complete, Justin brought Randy (the head chef) over to our table so we could meet him and compliment him on our food. Nice touch there Justin, who later explained that they were friends and that Randy was the reason why Justin came to the White Rhino.

Although we were all totally stuffed; Jodi ordered the "Chocolate cake to die for" dessert and four forks! We all enjoyed the freshly made chocolate cake covered in fudge that we later found out Randy made. He makes all of the desserts from scratch! It was a great ending to a wonderful meal.

The consensus of our group was that this is a place we'd recommend and definitely return to often. This group gives the White Rhino FIVE FORKS! Our best rating! It is worth the trip to Dyer.

If you go:

• Casual dress is fine (it's a bar and grill atmosphere)
• Food is reasonably priced, click here to be taken to the menu
• There are daily lunch and dinner specials
• Tuesday night is pasta bar night
• Smokers are welcome, but sit in the bar area
• Noise levels not bad, some TV sound on the dozens of screens all over but not too loud to interfer with dinner guests talking
• Clean great service, booths are a little tight, not sure what happened there - try a table for comfort
• Fast service

Average ticket price, about $10.00. Visit them online at http://www.whiterhinoonline.com/

The comments listed above are those of Bob, Patty, Jodi and Rick. White Rhino had nothing to do with this review. Please offer your comments, we would love to hear from you.