Monday, July 19, 2010

Parma 8200

Not sure how I got on the mailing list for D'Amico mailings, but I am glad I did.

To announce the opening of their new restaurant Parma 8200 there was a cocktail party on Saturday the 17th. Parma is located across from Kincaid's in Bloomington and also on the first level of an office building.

By the time I arrived it was standing room only but I guess that is what you would expect when everything is free.

There was a choice of 4 different cocktails but to tell you the truth after 5 or 6 Dragon Martinis I really was not ready to taste anything else. My co-workers did try the Mojito one liked the other didn't. There was a table covered with little tidbits to nosh on and also wait staff walking around with platters full of tasty little treats.

This time there was room for dessert and I am so glad there was. There was a butterscotch pudding or mousse (remember 6 cocktails), I almost licked by fingers after that. In addition little pieces of crostini with chocolate on top, certainly had a couple of those. Hope you can now understand why I stay away from desserts " I don't know when to stop".

We wanted to stay for dinner but every table was reserved. It will just give me a reason to go back to try the food and see what the restaurant is all about.

The outdoor patio should make for a good happy hour on a warm summer night.

In case I didn't mention I heard one of the oldest lines used between 2 people as I was listening to somebody else's conversation...Do I Know You From Somewhere" can you believe. I felt like I was back in Brooklyn at one of the local discos. Just goes to show somethings just do not die..

With those wise words of wisdom (please feel free to use anytime) I will bid you good night for now.

Another Summer VIsit

The July 4th weekend took me to Excelsior,I just love this little town. If I close my eyes it takes me back to small little hamlets along the Hudson in up state New York. Ok I have no time to reminisce or I will have my own little pity party.

After taking a walk up one side of the street and down the other it is time for food. I have wanted to go to Jake O'Connors for a long time and my yearning was finally satisfied. The inside is huge and looks like any other Irish pub, but that is as far as it goes.

The onion rings are to die for very light and tasty..Oh my mouth is watering. I ordered the Philly cheese hoagie did not have any great expectations but after my first bit it was Wow. I could not believe that a sandwich with so much meat would be so tender.. absolutely delish! Unfortunately I have not been leaving room for dessert not that I need it but it is always good to have something sweet to finish with.]

The wait staff more then friendly and helpful in their recommendations.

The one minor flaw was the Bloody Mary not really sure how it was made but it would not be on my agenda in a future trip. No matter there are so many other libations made with alcohol I am sure I can find something else.

This is a great place to visit during the summer with a visit to Jake's for a cocktail or a bit more.

Recap of Summer to Date

Hi to all the little minions...i just love that word!

Let me start by saying it has been a good summer to date, even though I had to cut down and cut corners, there is always a little bit left over for a movie or a morsel.

I will start with a restaurant that I went to a couple of weeks ago by the name of Anchor located in Northeast. It is a very small place located at 302 13th Ave. N.E.

To me it is right out of an old English or Irish pub. It is a small neighborhood place as you will experience going at about 11:30 on a Saturday morning, lunch begins at 12. You can wait till 12 so grab a coffee, sit and watch the neighborhood people role out of bed and into their favorite booth to enjoy their favorite breakfast.

OK, on to the best fish & chips (french fries) that I have tasted since my last trip to England. The portion is huge and the fish is cod in a panko breading very light but enhances the fish.

The prices are terrific will not break the bank. When you are finished take a walk threw the neighborhood or get in the car or on your bike for a trek to St. Anthony's Main. This is the perfect way to digest the best food I have has in a long time.