Nominations for eatsalem.com Restaurant of the Year are in!

The nominations are in! Here's who will be competing for the eatsalem.com Restaurrant of the Year 2011. In no particular order.

• Willamette Burger Company
• Jonathan's
• La Capitale
• Morton's
• Andaluz
• Wild Pear
• Venti's
• Red Ginger
• Straight From New York Pizza
• Church St. Pizza
• Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro

This is going to be interesting, since people seem to be passionate about several of the restaurants on this list. The poll will be up soon. Good luck to all the restaurants.

Plaza Morelia

~Review by Chuck Bradley
Lately I’ve noticed that I miss more than I see while driving down the road. So I often park and walk a few blocks on one side of the street, then cross and walk back on the other. I’ve found some neat stuff this way.

During my most recent pedestrian peregrination, I chanced upon another interesting Mexican Meat Market called Carniceria y Mariscos el Jalapeno (3397 River RD N, Keizer). I chatted with the young proprietor, Caesar, about the sources and freshness of his meat and the fact that much of it is butchered, fresh, on premises. With my wonderful, recent experience at Carniceria La Concentida fresh in my memory, I asked if he served any grill food. He said he did not, but that I was in luck because the best Tacos and Tortillas around could be had just behind his building at Plaza Morelia!

I wasted no time trudging around the corner. The food counter is in the back of a Mom and Pop type Mexican grocery with an alcove to the side offering a number of tables for dine-in use. The ubiquitous soccer game was on the TV, which other patrons were enjoying.

Orto tesoro Mexicano! (Another Mexican treasure!)

I had two Tacos Carnitas (Pork, $.99 ea.) and one Taco Lengua (Tongue, $1.50). Both meats were succulent and tender. The tongue was so delicately flavored and delicious, I pined to more capacity than I possessed today. They have a well stocked condiment bar with everything needed to put the finishing touches on a great taco. I loaded them up with Cilantro, Onions and Salsa Verde. (I tried the Hot Sauce gingerly and, I found, with good reason!) The handmade Corn Tortillas are thick and wonderfully rich tasting. If we weren’t up to our “codos” in Christmas eats, at our house, I’d have brought a bag home with me. That will be for another day.

The people here were extremely nice and helpful

I can’t wait to return to try their Huaraches and Quesadillas!

I will not say this place is better than La Concentida, but I wouldn’t want to have to live off the difference!

Their hours are:
Monday - Saturday 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday - 8:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Plaza Morelia
3391 River RD N
Keizer, OR 97303
(503) 304-4356

Salem Restaurant News

Last night a local Salemite sent me a message about the new sign at the old Roxxy's spot on State St. next door to Sassy Onion.
And just a few hours later locals on Twitter began to buzz with the news that Super Pho's new downtown location opened today.
What have you spotted around town?  Send us an email or photo.

Nominate the 2010 eatsalem.com Restaurant of the Year

This is it Salem foodies, your chance to tell us which restaurant is the best. We will have an online poll starting January 1st and ending January 9th, that will determine, by your votes, which eatery is tops in town. But first we need to figure out who we should put on that poll. That's where this post comes in. Use the comment section of this post to nominate all of your favorite restaurants. We will take the restaurants that have been nominated the most times and put them on the online poll in January. For instance, even if you see someone has nominated your favorite restaurant, nominate them again to get them on the poll. Got it? OK, nominate away! Past winners include:
2010 Word of Mouth
2009 La Hacienda
2008 Apizza in Stayton
December 30th will be the last day to nominate restaurants.

Merry Christmas Salem Oregon!

Ho! Ho! Ho!
Here's a list of restaurants open today.

The Old Spaghetti Warehouse

~Review by Chuck Bradley
It seems OSW is a place that engenders strong opinions pro or con. Folks are either charmed by the funky datedness or completely offended by it. I see no noticeable change in its décor from when my brother celebrated his 40th birthday here in 1994. But you’ll notice it’s the rare comment that derides the food or berates the value.

She who must be obeyed and I had an early dinner here tonight. Having read the ’07 review and subsequent posts, my senses were honed to notice things previously observed. The place is old. You either like it/or can live with it or you don't/can’t. It was dark, but not dingy nor dirty. I find the eclectic hodge-podge of furnishings interesting. The bed frame benches are examples of creative ingenuity and when you looked at them, for the first time, I’ll bet you smiled. Come on, admit it!

We arrived about 4:30 PM and were immediately seated. Pleasant classic Christmas music played softly in the background. By 5:00 PM the place was hutched! They accept reservations, but only for parties of 6 or more.

Carol ordered ½ Lasagna and ½ Spaghetti with meatless sauce ala carte. I had the Calzone Dinner, which included Hot-From-The-Oven Bread, Soup (I chose Cream of Portabella Mushroom) or Salad and Dessert (I selected Cream Brule) and a glass of Gabbiano DOCG Italian Chianti. My Soup was excellent. Carol loved her Lasagna but thought the Spaghetti was lacking. (Of course it was lacking! She ordered meatless sauce!) My Calzone was delicious, and huge! Its sauce was wonderful. The bread (Half a small loaf) was served with soft garlic butter, and was replaced the moment it was gone. The wine was alright, but to tell you the truth, I’d have been just as happy with a glass of Carlo Rossi Paisano. I’m not a dessert guy usually. I only ordered Cream Brule because I knew Carol would be all over it. When it arrived, her eyes sparkled. When I pushed it across the table to her, she gave me that big smile of hers. That was worth the price of admission right there!

Others have commented that the time between order and presentation is excessive. When meals are created one at a time, Golden Arches turn-around time is just too much to expect. This is not the kind of food which should be hurried in its preparation or enjoyment.

Our server, Sarah, was cheerful and proficient. She was serving more tables than any one person should have to, but never missed a beat.

We think OSW offers more bang for the buck than most places. It is what it is and shouldn’t be expected to be anything else. We like it.

920 Commercial ST SE
Salem, OR 97302
(503) 391-9005

Kay’s Bar and Grill

~Review by Chuck Bradley
They opened their doors on Tuesday last in the Old Europe Inn’s location. The first thing I noticed is that they have corrected the extremely inconvenient rest room situation that was my only beef with the previous occupants. A dash outside through the elements, in the dark, is no longer required.

The warm walnut wainscoting remains. The furniture is mostly wooden tables and wooden spindleback chairs with a few bar stools. Simple and utilitarian. The interior shutters are gone, admitting much more light and lending the place a much roomier feeling than before.

I understand that this is a family owned and operated enterprise and that it is their first exposure to the restaurant business.

Today I had a Ham and Swiss cheese on Rye with a bountiful green salad. The sandwich was good but the use of real Swiss rather than the processed variety would have enhanced it greatly. The Blue Cheese Dressing I chose was of the bottled type. I shared my thoughts on the cheese with my very nice server named Valerie. Although I stand by these minor criticisms, I should mention that my total, before tip, bill was only $4.75! A bargain by any measure.

With the exception of a couple of sandwiches which require grilling, the only two grill items on the menu were, Hot, BBQ, or Teriyaki Chicken Wings and a Steak Dinner Special ($9.99) only available on Friday and Saturday nights. (Before the thought escapes me, their Reuben is made with Corned Beef, not Pastrami. A good thing, in my opinion.)

These nice folks are working through the glitches and unforeseen challenges that make opening any new business interesting. One of which is, no hot water in the men’s room. They’ll overcome them all, if I get my wish. It takes courage to undertake this kind of venture in these economic times. Let’s give them our support.

Kay’s Bar and Grill
3195 Liberty RD S
Salem, OR 97302
(503) 588-4431

Konditorei, Meet Gerry Frank

Of course, we all know about the famous chocolate cakes at Salem's unique Konditorei restaurant on Commercial St. SE. But do you know about it's co-founder and local power player Gerry Frank? When the guy is not treating himself to chocolate, Gerry is making things happen in Salem and Oregon. Did you know that he donated $1 million to help build the Kroc Center? For 20 years he was chief of staff for Senator Mark Hatfield and has often been called Oregon's third senator. I'm told that he predicted the election of Governors Kulongoski and Kitzhaber long before campaigning started in their races. You can also add this to his Salem credentials, he helped Mr. Kwan get his restaurant off the ground many years ago. Read Gerry's bio here. I'm surprised he doesn't have a wiki page. To promote his Konditorei restaurant, Gerry recorded this youtube video. Check it out.

Andaluz Tapas Bar

~Review by Chuck Bradley
I thought I’d see what all the buzz was about. I intentionally arrived early, shortly before six. I’d heard it gets busy later and often requires a wait, which is something I am loath to endure. I was promptly seated and my drink order was taken. I selected the highly recommended Red Sangria. It was delicious and surprisingly potent. I thought it had a strong hint of pomegranate but was told it contained none. The place is simply and tastefully appointed. My complaint about the acoustics of its sister establishment, La Capitale, nearby, applies here as well.

I looked over the menu and decided to be guided by the recommendations of my server, Ted. (This guy is good. More on this later.) I asked what his three favorite menu items were. Without hesitation he suggested the White Bean Stew with Chorizo, Winter Greens and Olive Oil and the Grilled Squid with Couscous, Mojo Verde, Caramelized Onions and Jalapenos. He paused and suggested Pan de Calabaza: Roasted Fall Squash and Kale on Toasted Bread with Fairview Farms Goat Cheese to add something “a little lighter”. Two ingredients were entirely new in my experience. The White Beans were huge. At first I thought they were Giant Limas. They had the flavor and texture of Navy Beans, but were the size of the end of my thumb! The Couscous consisted of spherical delicacies about the size of cooked soy beans and created a textural sensation on the tongue reminiscent of Salmon Roe.

I subjected poor Ken to quite a quiz. I learned that the beans and couscous were each special varieties. Admitting ignorance, I asked if the Squid dish was intended to be a hot or cold dish as it didn’t really satisfy either definition. Forearmed with more information than I should have given him, when I framed the question, he smiled and said: “I think it’s intended to be a warm dish.” Then he shifted my attention by asking me to rank the dishes in order of my preference. I did. He smiled and walked away. It was only then that I realized I’d been taken to the dance. I’ve been a salesman since my first awareness of self. Usually when such subtle influences are being plied upon me, I’m aware of it as it's happening! His non-answer satisfied me perfectly. The man is a master of diplomacy! This artistry alone was worth the price of the meal.

The food was all wonderful. However, I’ll admit that after quaffing my muy sabroso sangria, I was pretty easy to get along with. Although, I think the Tapas concept is better suited to two or more diners (She who must be obeyed was out of town this evening), I enjoyed it very much. They have excellent servers, chef, and wonderful food unlike any other you’re likely to find in Salem Oregon.

I’ll definitely be back with bride in tow.

Andaluz Tapas Bar
130 High ST SE
Salem, OR 97301
(503) 588-1773

Mission Mill Café

~Review by Chuck Bradley
Tucked away in the historic Mission Mill Museum this cozy nook is a lunch-only place with lots of charm. A mix of oak captain’s chairs surround spaciously spaced tables. An antique side board and rustic scale (which had utility, no doubt, when the place was a working woolen mill) coupled with the rustic wood floors give it an “out of the past” feeling.

My mood and appetite must be a fit when I come here. A light, high quality and comparatively expensive meal must be the order of the day.

Today, I had their “Dubliner” Sandwich which is excellent Corned Beef, fried Red Onions and Melted Swiss Cheese on Rye Bread with a side of Sour Cream-Horseradish Sauce. As I knew it would be, it was small but wonderful. It came with a Green Salad (Prepackaged, I think, but fresh and good) with their house Honey Mustard dressing. This dressing is unique in my experience. It’s richly delicious and awash with whole mustard seeds. The presentation was pleasing to the eye with large purple grapes and cherry tomatoes bracketing the greens. I also ordered a cup of Vegetable-Beef Soup. This was obviously custom crafted on-premises. It contained Potatoes, Tomatoes, Peas, Carrots, Cabbage and generous chunks of Beef. Just like Mother used to make!

Although I think of it primarily as a soup and sandwich place, they do have daily specials. Today’s were; Lasagna with Garlic Bread and Roast Beef, Potatoes and Gravy. Also fresh made Quiche dishes are available.

My server, Melanie, did an excellent job and fielded my numerous questions graciously. She explained that the owner, Sandy Flicker, has satisfied a lifelong dream of being a restaurateur after a forty year career as a lobbyist at the Capitol.

The meal came to $11.00 before the gratuity and was perfect for a not-real-hungry guy. This is pretty much the limit of my lunch budget, but sometimes the extra quality of the food and the skill of the chef are worth a little extra.

While you’re here, look around the Mission Mill Museum and surrounding grounds. It will be time well spent. There’s a wealth of Salem History here about the Native American people and the earliest non-indigenous settlers. The original Jason Lee House, The John Boon House and The Pleasant Grove Church are all on the grounds. They also have tours, educational activities and lecture series. Check with them, or go online for schedules.

Mission Mill Café
1313 Mill ST SE
Salem, OR 97301
503-763-1266
E-mail: missionmillcafe@comcast.net
Web site: www.missionmillcafe.com

Ringo's Tavern

Want a low key place to get a delicious burger? Maybe you should head to Ringo's in Keizer. For years I've driven by their sign advertising the best burgers in town. Finally, I decided to join some of my adventurous friends for an early dinner there to check out this claim.

We arrived at Ringo's a little before 5 PM on a weeknight. There were already a few patrons eating dinner, including a couple of tables of elderly folks and what looked like an after work crowd at bar stools along the counter. Ringo's has a surprisingly pleasant atmosphere for dinner. I did notice a slight leftover smoky smell from the days of indoor smoking, but it wasn't distracting or overwhelming. There are a few pool tables in a sunken area at the end of the bar and a small room with video poker on the other end. There are TVs here and there throughout the bar and at first one was tuned to a rather gruesome show that re-enacted horrible sports injuries, which was quite disconcerting when we were trying to order food. The bartender may have heard us talking about it, or just decided on his own to change the channel to a basketball game which made the atmosphere much, much better for enjoying food.

There were two servers helping us throughout our meal and both were friendly, helpful, and pleasant the entire time. I tried one of their darker microbrews on tap, Sinister Stout out of Nevada, and was offered a taste before I decided whether I wanted a to order it. They have a few different micros as well as regular domestic beers on tap. Our server informed us that it was happy hour when we arrived so domestics were $1.50 and micros were $3.00. Well drinks were also on happy hour and one of our companions ordered a gin and tonic. Everyone seemed quite happy with their drinks although the Sinister Stout a couple of us tried didn't have a lot of depth. (I actually like it that way so I was quite happy with it, but other, more serious, beer drinkers may be disappointed).

We decided to order onion rings as an appetizer and our server told us he thought the small size would be plenty for us to share, so we split a basket between the four of us. It was definitely plenty for an appetizer although they were so tasty we probably would have eaten more had they been there. We all ordered sandwiches or burgers and the server was happy to make them exactly the way we asked for them with additions and subtractions from what was on the menu.

I had a chicken club sandwich, which was very good. I would definitely order it again. The chicken breast was nice and moist and the toppings were generous. The bread didn't seem quite up to the task of holding up under all the toppings on my sandwich, but it was quite good anyway. One of my other companions had a burger (with basically all the toppings taken off. Sacrilege, I say!), and two others had a sandwich that was called Mario Sizzle. It looked yummy, with lots of thick-sliced roast beef and apparently had a tasty horseradish sauce. Tater tots and fries were options for a side. The fries were thin and crispy and quite tasty as well. Tots, well, how can you make a bad tot? Sandwich prices ran about $7-9.

As we sat chatting after our meal, I noticed a lot of people coming in for dinner and the tables pretty much filled up. It was an eclectic crowd, with a mix of ages and types of people. I would definitely go back for a burger or sandwich from Ringo's again.


4170 River Road North
Keizer, OR 97303
(503) 390-1015

Roth’s Vista Market Deli

~Review by Chuck Bradley
This is a real deli! In a world where many places, with a sign proclaiming that they qualify, are in fact gas stations with a Spam, or some other mystery meat, on Wonderbread sandwich mummified (complete with preservatives worthy of a dead Egyptian pharaoh) in plastic wrap, Roth’s authenticity is appreciated. Most of their meats and cheeses are “Boar’s Head” brand, arguably some of the highest quality products available. Their breads and condiments are always first rate. They also have a variety of salads and chicken.

Today I had a craving for a Corned Beef and Swiss on Rye. Surprisingly, and this was a first, they were out of rye bread. I opted for wheat in its place. I enjoy sitting in their “crows nest” balcony. It’s one of Salem’s best people watching places. It offers a unique opportunity in this respect. For many of the shoppers, a Roth’s trip is a social event. They put on their Sunday best to see and be seen. The sandwich was wonderful, as always. If you know of any other place, within reasonable driving distance, where a deli sandwich of this quality can be had for $5.50, please let me know. Their sandwiches are one of the few true bargains to be had here.

For some reason, this lunch opportunity has been overlooked by most. More often than not, I’m the only person up there. If you want company, best bring a friend. Although sometimes a little solitude can be nice.

La Concentida Carniceria

~Review by Chuck Bradley
It’s primarily a butcher shop with refrigerated cases filled with beautiful cuts. But I went today for the authentic Mexican food. My nephew, Scott Bradley, has been telling me about this place for a while. Today he took me. I had three Tacos, one Beef and two Pork and fantastic Tamale. The Tacos were created in much the same way Carne Asada Tacos are put together. That is with two soft Corn Tortillas wrapping each. They were stuffed with Meat, Onions and Cilantro and served with Lime wedges and a very good Salsa Verde.

If there’s anything that toots my vuvuzela almost as much than great food, it’s cheap great food. They were $1.00 each! They also make some of the best Fried Pork Rinds I’ve ever eaten. There are only two tables, so if you go during the lunch or dinner hours, it may be best to plan for take-out. Don’t expect white table cloths or fancy décor. Remember, it is a meat market. But if real, south-of-the-border food is for you, you owe it to yourself to try this place.
I think it’s a real find. Let us know what you think.

La Concentida Carniceria
1042 Lancaster DR NE
Salem, OR 97301

(503) 763-6603

Round Table Pizza - Keizer Station

~Review by Chuck Bradley

Today I drove north to Keizer Station specifically to try Round Table Pizza's well recommended $6.99 buffet. The restaurant has a clean and new quality to it. The second thing I noticed was the extremely awkward traffic pattern. When as busy as they were today (Black Friday weekend may not have been the ideal time to try this place), the folks exiting the buffet line had to wedge their way through the order line to access the seating area. This required some very cumbersome maneuvers. Also, an inordinate number of their tables were arranged to accommodate large groups. As a single diner, I was obliged to share several pushed-together tables with a family of seven.

Their buffet was about as fresh and appetizing as buffets get. They offered a half dozen, or so, pizza varieties. I had a slice each of: pepperoni, a combo named "King Arthur", and a delicious white cheese and herb. All were good, but could have been warmer. The salad bar had a large selection of vegetables, fruit, beans, pasta, condiments and dressings. (Conspicuously missing was French dressing. Odd, I thought.) I scrutinize salad bars closely. More often than not one, or more, of the items are less than very fresh. I saw no indication of that here.

With a plate balanced on each hand, silverware tucked under my arm and napkins clenched in my teeth, I adroitly faked to the right and then cut sharply to the left to get by another rotund Sexagenarian in the order line. (One must perfect moves such as this in order to survive in the dangerous world of restaurant dining!) I then found my way to my communal seating situation and enjoyed my meal.

I think the pizza here is potentially great. Heat lamps do not enhance the goodness of any pizza, even if its time under them is of short duration. I know if you had one made to order and delivered to your table fresh from the oven, you would enjoy a superior product.

I rate Round Table Pizza a B+. If you too are a pizza junkie, it's worth a look.

6055 Ulali Dr NE
Keizer, OR 97303
(503) 393-2150

Papa di Vino is Back!

Email just received from the new owners at Papa di Vino:


The permits have come through and we are ready to start back up.

Tomorrow (12/9/2010) the "Thursday Night 5 for $5" will start back up.  Mix and match tastes of the following wines:

RED
1. Spellbound Petite Sirah
2. Napa Cellars Zindandel
3. Penfolds Doonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet from Australia
4. Hershy's Red pinot Noir

WHITES
1. Creme Delys Chardonnay
2. St Innocent Pinot Gris
3. Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand
4. Arbor Crest Riesling

Come by, meet the new owners, check out the new inventory, and tell us what you think.
-- 
Papa Di Vino
503-364-3009
1130 Royvonne Ave Se. #104
Salem, Oregon 97302
http://www.papadivino.com/

Christo's

Our girls gave us a Christo's gift certificate for Christmas last year.  I'm ashamed to admit that it's taken N and I this long to redeem it.  Not quite a year, but close enough.  It's not because we didn't want to go, it has more to do with remembering to fit it in while exploring new places and still enjoying a few of our favorite spots.

As usual for the 2 of us, it was a little after 7PM when we walked into Christo's door.  We were greeted and seated immediately.  When we hesitated to remove our coats, the hostess asked if we preferred to sit elsewhere.  "No, we're okay.", I replied, but I did appreciate that she was paying attention.

We both ordered a glass of the sangiovese to drink.  Deciding what to order for dinner was more difficult.  I've had their pizza (and I love it), but I haven't had any of their other dinner options. When our waiter arrived, he apologized for taking awhile to get to our table.  I let him know that we needed the time to make up our minds.  When I said I wanted to order one of the pasta dishes, he went to check on availability.  Sadly, they were out, so I ordered my second choice--Chicken Piccata.   N had been struggling, too, but because he was trying to be good and not order everything that sounded delicious.  He chose the Veal Marsala.  We also ordered green salads to start.  Love those rosemary bread sticks!

Our beautiful entrées arrived just as we were finishing up our salads.  The wonderful aroma, flavors and the presentation reminded me of the first time I'd had Chicken Marsala at Word of Mouth.  The chicken was tender and all of the flavors were a delicate compliment to one another, as well as the side dishes.  N enjoyed his meal, too.  Side note: When I'm enjoying every bite of a meal, I'm thankful for the music and chatter of customers in the background  that conceals my little moans of pleasure.  (Sorry, but it's true)
Sadly, we didn't have room for dessert, maybe another time.
If you're looking for pizza or special occasion dining, we heartily recommend Christo's.  While our entrees were in the vicinity of $15- $17 dollars each, the ala carte pasta dishes start at $7.  Plus they have a family style option on a few of their pasta entrées.
I do have to mention, that if you're sensitive to cold temps (like us), you may not want to be seated at the tables just behind the half-wall by the front door.  There was a chilly breeze whenever the door opened.

1108 Broadway ST. N.E.
Salem, Oregon 97301
503-371-2892

Freddie’s Deli & Pub

~Review by Chuck Bradley
To my mind, a Deli (delicatessen) is loosely defined as a retail establishment in which high quality meats, pasta/potato salads, certain fish products and a variety of sandwiches can be found. And a Pub (public house) is a tavern or bar which also offers a limited, but good, menu of eats. Given that language is not static in its meanings and that my memory has had a greater span of time in which to become more lost to current definitions than most, I guess it’s not surprising that, what appears to me to be a misnomer is, in today’s world, not. So I grudgingly concede that Freddie’s is, in fact, a Deli & Pub.

Call it what you will, it was clean and bright with lots of windows admitting floods of natural light. The counter person was cheerful, helpful and friendly. I asked if the turkey (Before you ask, we didn’t have turkey for Thanksgiving, then feast on it for the next two days at our house!) was sliced from a breast or reconstituted. It was reconstituted. (A friend from another site descriptively refers to this as “chewed and glued”.) I asked if the same was true of the ham. It was. I opted for their Italian Sandwich. It was loaded with Salami, Ham (sometimes concessions must be made), Provolone, Lettuce and Tomato and came on Ciabatta Bread, it was lightly toasted, which beautifully melted the cheese, and was surprisingly good. They have a condiment basket with a good selection of flavored mustards and other goodies.

Their business card boasts “Sausages, Hotdogs, Sandwiches and Gourmet Coffee. The also serve Beer, Wine and Spirits. They’ve got Video Lottery, if that toots your vuvuzela. They’re located on the south end of Sunnyslope Shopping Center. Give them a try and see what you think!

4555 Liberty RD S
Salem, OR 97302
(503) 581-3338

Open seven days a week

Roberts Crossing

~Review by Chuck Bradley
The interior is decorated in warm inviting tones and with furniture rescued from previous uses, beautifully refurbished, restored and coordinated. Ingeniously modular partitions afford a measure of separation/privacy for parties of varying sizes. The place combines an upscale flavor with family friendliness. I found the acoustics a little lacking, but they would not, I’m sure, be a problem for someone with normal hearing.

There’s a cozy bar ensconced in the rear of the landmark building where they have fun with capricious flights of fancy such as “Crossing Bell Drink Specials”. Evidently the train schedules are random, so you never know when the bell will ring! It has a pleasant atmosphere conducive to fun and good times.

We were promptly seated. Carol (she who must be obeyed) upon discovering they were out of Braised Oregon Lamb Shanks, ordered Spiral Pasta & Clams (A generous portion of tender and tiny butter clams in a light rustic marinara, finished with a touch of cream & gremolata all on a bed of plump pasta.). We started with an appetizer of Pan Fried Oysters with green goddess & lemon aioli. I’ve noticed that often large oysters equate to strong tasting oysters. Not tonight. They were delicious! I had Catfish in Parchment, a first for me. The fish, potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower and green beans were all prepared together in parchment paper. Interesting and very good. I paired my meal with an excellent glass of Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris. Also, being a French Onion Soup junkie, I had to try a bowl which tipped my desires just beyond my capacity. But no regrets here! I understand locally and regionally grown foods are used whenever practicable.

Our server, Nina, was courteous and attentive and did a first rate job. We were shocked to learn it was her first day!

The gracious proprietors James and Chris Glodt have created a wonderful eatery which I believe Salem diners will welcome enthusiastically.

Rumor has it that a lunch menu may be in the offing.

Roberts Crossing
3635 River RD S
Salem, OR 97302
(503) 584-1035

Prudence Uncorked - Latest News

Photo by Marlin Brownell

Prudence Uncorked is now closed

It’s a GIRL!
Welcome please, our new chef,
Jesmika Moreno!

Oh, Prudent Revelers, if you only KNEW how much the Statesman Journal wanted this scoop! (No, really! The emails were literally FLYING!) But we decided our faithful Prudent Revelers should be the first to hear the official news. In early November, we asked veteran Chef Jesmika Moreno to take charge of our kitchen. Of course, she said no. (Seriously! She did.) But it became SO clear to everyone that she belonged with Prudence that 24 hours later, she changed her mind and said yes. And oh my, the difference she’s made--- we just can’t tell you. You’ll have to taste it for yourselves! (OH, OH, OH, and here’s another little secret for all those attendees who raved about our November 10 wine dinner --- Jesmika made all the courses!)

Photo by Marlin Brownell

So it’s time to rejoice… LOOK at our December Frolics!
December 8 Winey Wednesday Paired Affair

Wednesday, December 8, starting at 7:00 instead of our regular 6:30 pm due to the holidays, we match our scintillating food to Andrew Rich’s intriguing wines! Five courses (including shaved fennel salad, rack of lamb topped with olive tapenade, and a lemon cream puff with a pineapple reduction, just to mention a few) with five wines (Andrew Rich’s Sauvignon Blanc, Coup D Etat, and Gewurztraminer Dessert Wine, just to name a few more) make for an evening that sparkles with holiday cheer. $65 per person, BUT…only $110 per couple (and by couple, we mean any two people on the same bill). Seating is limited and begins at, so please make your reservations soon! 503-362-0888. (And Marsha, we are expecting you!)

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT ON FRIDAYS!
December 3, 10, 24, and 31, father-son guitar duo José and John Troncoso bring their repertoire of original arrangements of contemporary and traditional Latin pieces and more traditional classical pieces, as well as original compositions. The duo plays classical guitar, also known as the Spanish guitar, and their soft, mellow sound makes an excellent musical backdrop for a romantic evening out. José and John Troncoso will add selections from their CD "Classical Guitars Christmas" to their repertoire during the month of December.

Christmas Uncorked! Dinner Theatre

What a kick in the head our dinner theatre shows are! And our Christmas musical variety is GOBS of fun! (Well, honestly, what can be better than audience participation during a rousing rendition of “A Partridge in a Pear Tree?” Especially when it comes with a 3-course dinner with dishes such as “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Short Ribs” and “Chocolate We have Heard on High Cake”?) We’ve made it easy to attend, with shows tonight and December 8, 9, 10, 11, and 15. (Sorry --- the Dec 18 show is sold out.) Dinner shows $35 per person/Appetizer shows $20 per person. Please call for information and reservations: tickets are selling!
325 High St. SE
Salem, Oregon 97301
503-362-0888

Downtown Late at Night? Hope You're Not Hungry.

This is a repost from over here on my blog that KandN and I thought might spark a good conversation. What do you have to say about late night eats in downtown Salem?

You know what's missing in downtown Salem? Well, okay, I know a lot of you will come up with a laundry list as soon as you read that question. But really. You know what is seriously missing? Late night food options. The only thing you can find downtown after about 10 PM is greasy bar food from the fryer.

Now, I have nothing against greasy bar food once in awhile, but sometimes I'd like some other options.

I was downtown with a friend last Friday night and we had a couple drinks and then decided we needed some food. We searched the streets and bars of Salem for someplace with a decent late night menu. Even a sandwich or nachos would have made us happy, but everywhere we went, they told us the kitchen was closed down except for the fryer.

Very frustrating indeed.

I know La Perla is sometimes open late, but by the time we thought of that it was just before closing. We also did not check The Brick, but perhaps someone knows if they have a decent late-night menu.

You know what we really need downtown? Late night food carts! I'd like a grilled cheese cart and a nacho cart, please. And perhaps a good BBQ cart would be nice as well.

Willamette Burger... again.

With K&N's recent take on WB's new Veggie Burger, I thought twice about posting this one. But... it's got a twist. Stay with me here... 

 

Some time ago, my first experience with WB was as a carryout dinner for myself and two friends. You have to understand the experience was dashed--in part--because that evening, fries were really what I was craving. As in PMS craving. You know how that goes. The world would END if I did not have fry satisfaction. (Probably not a good time to try something new, I realize.) 

My first encounter with WB was disappointing. The fries that evening were hard, cooked to dehydrated, dark and almost burnt. I'd commented as such online elsewhere. Soon thereafter, I received a pleasant response from the management that said, in short, "That's the way we like 'em." Can't fault a place for standing by their vision of what something should be, even though I could hardly believe they'd CHOOSE to serve what I was given. The buns had also been hard, dry and chewy, and seemed to outweigh the rest of the burgers. As a result, I was NOT impressed, and wondered what the buzz was about. 

That was six months ago, and I hadn't gone back. Given that I eat out almost daily, there are few places I don't hit in a six month period! Now you might be thinking, "Geez, what a hard-ass -- one thing off and you write off a place for good?" 

Well, that's the lesson for restauranteurs... yes, that's EXACTLY what happens sometimes, especially in competitive markets. It's got to be right, for every customer, every time. It's what we are coming to you for. If I wanted unpredictable and possibly crappy food... I'd eat in my own kitchen.  :)  

As time went on, a nagging thought sat in my skull: if all these people with opinions I usually trusted raved... what was I missing? Giving it another go was on the mental to do list. With the come of Groupon, the WB offer of a $14 value for only a $7 cost couldn't be denied. With Scot, my trusty partner, in tow I returned to WB this weekend. 

First thing's first: The fries served to me at my first visit (all THREE orders of them) appear to NOT be the norm. During a busy lunch I watched tens of baskets come by me with fries, and not a one looked as desiccated and dark as what I was served. 

If only I'd known that! Now I'm sad I've missed six months of enjoying this place! We sampled a number of things: tots, onion rings, a BBQ Burger and the Border Burger. All were fabulous. The buns were much better: fresh and substantial, yet soft, flavorful and easy to eat. While my burger came looking like an insurmountable tower, putting the opened-palmed-power-press on it reduced it to a height that could, with work, be eaten by hand.

The tots are unique, and oh-so-good with the horseradish dipping sauce. Fluffy and peppery, they are crunchy on the outside and pure potato goodness on the inside. These are NOT your usual tots. 

The star of the show, however, were the onion rings. By far the best we've EVER had. EVER. Anywhere. Medium-large slices of tender sweet onions are hugged in a crisp coating that somehow does not come apart from the onion as you eat it. Each bite is an excellent balance of onion and breading. The fry sauce goes very well with those, but there's always just plain old ketchup, which I preferred. 

Our burgers were fantastic, each piled high with fresh, flavorful ingredients. They were total opposites; the BBQ Burger was a dark, thick and heavy onslaught of flavor (bbq sauce, beef, bacon, cheddar) while the Border Burger was fresh and light with the tasty pico. In both, the quality of the beef, superior in texture and taste to what you find elsewhere, stood out. 

The service was friendly and helpful, and the patrons inside the cozy eatery all seemed... happier... than your average person on any given day. A very nice vibe! 

So a few lessons, for both sides of the counter. Eatery staff, make sure it's up to your own high standards each and every time, or you might lose people. And don't be afraid to try something again, customers, if you have a bad experience but others experience something different on a routine basis!