thos's Profile
August in Wellfleet MA ...breakfast, lunch, dinner, ice cream
Along with Mac's we like Wicked Oyster (hear they have really good breakfast too though we never tried) and Winslow Tavern, both for dinner. Go to Winslow when they have free entertainment-usually a band. Used to be on Thursday evenings.
Can't stop thinking about Cape Cod!! Need suggestions for summer seafood near Brewster.
Like CapeCodGuy, I avoided Cooke's in Orleans for years based on 2 truly mediocre visits (last one around 2003), but I was dragged there last summer and was pleasantly surprised. For one, it is spotless (not that a clam shack need be) and the food (all fried) was very fresh and tasty. Best of all- not a drop of oil left anywhere in the bottom of the plate/container. New owner? They see the light after too many complaints? Who knows, but I think they have improved considerably. That said I still prefer Sir Cricket's
Trattori da Lepri in Ellington CT questions
It is neat casual anytime. Get a reservation if you can (there was a time they didn't take them). I think just about everything they serve is very good (they were at an old favorite, Pastis long ago) so French is as good a bet as Italian. I have a few quibbles, but overall they do a real nice job. My favorite dish is the pappardelle with braised beef (recently $17) very rich, very filling...I have a good appetite, but have never finished it in one sitting.
I was there last just before they opened their burger bar (not a fan here) and they recently opened a place in Tolland (I might try it again in a year-they have a lot of work to do there), so I am interested to see if Trattoria still holds up.
The River Tavern, Chester, CT
BTW, I always complain. LOL. At the aforementioned Firebox several weeks ago, my stepdaughter (Ag science grad and currently a farmer) thought the beans in her dish were undercooked. At first I argued they were just "al dente", but she made me taste and was right! I nicely mentioned it to the server who said their chef loves getting feedback, especially negative! "How can we ever improve if everything is fine?" Maybe he'll check the beans for doneness next time he's cooking that dish. Sounds like that tasteless cream sauce dennisl had could have used some alterations too.
The River Tavern, Chester, CT
Well, again I have to defer to you guys who have been there a lot more than I have, especially you katty. We went on a weekday night before Goodspeed about 10 months ago. The place was full but the staff didn't seem harried. The waitress got us more bread and refilled glasses, etc. without our asking and also warned us to order that signature dessert of theirs ahead since it took longer (good call). I was very impressed with the wine list, as there were actually a few bargains there and it was 2 for 1 drink night. My 3 companions ordered a very tasty and unusual martini (not my drink).
We had several apps, including very good mussels, which we demolished, The mains were fine except for a roast pork sandwich, which I felt was too dry. Desserts were good (how many places make "great" desserts? Grant's? Firebox?)
I think dennisl is picking nits, but obviously, they are HER nits and important to her. I didn't find the prices to be outlandish either. Maybe it has changed since her first visit, but how many places stay the same? If the owner is jaded, then, as they say, it all rolls downhill.
What's good in Provincetown
I haven't tried the Red Inn, but opinions I have heard run like 6-1 in favor, which is very good indeed. After you go come back and give us a short review- I would be very interested. Perhaps Capecodguy, phelana or ciclista has tried it. They've probably tried every place from Wood's Hole to Ptown- maybe they'll check in here.
What's good in Provincetown
Been to Townsend's only once and is was sparkling, though you may have been there more often. Agree on Blackfish, but, like Friendly Fisherman, (also quite good) it isn't in P Town. Funny, I find Front Street hit or miss and way too noisy. Go figure. It holds itself out as fine dining too (Napi does not). Guess I just expect more from Front Street.
What's good in Provincetown
Three of my faves: The Mews (fancy and among the best in town). Napi (amazing variety, very good food, service uneven at times), Karoo Kafe (totally unique and very tasty). I believe all are open now, at least for dinner. For just a lobster roll or something fried we recently discovered Townsend Lobster and Seafood Market. A bit less expensive than most other places, and very good. Their chowder rivals Home Port on MVI (my previous favorite). I think they all have web sites too
Pepe's in Manchester
I haven't noticed much of a change, but since most of the past criticism has been about "overcooking'" perhaps they are trying to back off the char.
Jason Hawkins & Carole Pecks Good News Cafe on NBC30 this morning
Jason Hawkins is NOT a food critic or restaurant reviewer and readily admits it. He is about "what" and "where," doing features for channel 30 and previously, for CPTV. In fact, I don't really think there are many restaurant reviewers worth reading.
I'm with kattyeyes. I come here and read the comments. Pretty soon you get to know which posters really know something about dining out. They are my "reviewers."
Smoke N'Bones review
I see..it's the Smoke& Bones of Derby not the Smoke N'Bones of MV.
Most Memorable Cape Cod Meal of 2011 and Your 2012 Dining Plan?
phelana and CCGuy: I will qualify my experiences. Both Mahoney's and Beacon Room were given good marks by our 2 friends who actually live in Orleans year round. We have tried each place only once. Mahoney's ambiance did not appeal to us, but the service was quiet and professional. To be honest- my 2 guests were not "wowed" by the food, but I would go back. The Beacon Room was nice and bright, but our server was too representative of the overbearing waitress- way too chatty. Perhaps it was a mistake, but the two of us ordered "specials." I had a gigantic pork chop that looked great, but was tough and pretty bland. My companion had some grilled white fish (don't recall what exactly), but it was also run of the mill. Salads were also mundane. It is very family friendly- I would lose my patience with some of those kids, so I give them some credit there. I would try it again and just order from the regular menu.
Fanizzi struck us as a big bar. Liked the setting, but NO beers on tap? C'mon. I was dying for one too. Food was average. Again, being our first visit, I'd go back, perhaps for the fish fry, but we found places like Karoo Cafe and Napi a lot more fun and with better food.
Love Blackfish, though my wife is less impressed. One more- the chowder at Townsend Lobster and Seafood was among the best I've had- rivaling Home Port on MVI.
BTW, enjoy your posts phelana and CCGuy. If fact I look to you guys for finding gems. Only been going to the Cape for about 3 years now (wish we could visit more places in the lower part) after owning a home on MVI for 25 years. Different scene - could write a book, but just wanted to say "thanks."
Most Memorable Cape Cod Meal of 2011 and Your 2012 Dining Plan?
Best? Abba, Orleans. Biggest disappointment? Fanizzi P-town. Pleasant surprise? Roast chicken at Mahoney's, Orleans. Let down? The Beacon Room also Orleans. Best Breakfast - Fairway/Hole in One, Eastham. "Old friends" still fine- Winslow Tavern and Wicked Oyster in Wellfleet.
Plan for 2012. Return to Blackfish and trying The Mews.
Plan for 2012
Martha's Vineyard dining recommendations?
One more thing. The building that used to house Cafe Moxie has finally been rebuilt. I spoke to a workman there who said the layout would be the same-restaurant at street level with several apartments on the upper 2 floors. They did a beautiful job, but he wasn't sure if the original Moxie owners were coming back (although I think they had insured the restaurant, if not the building). As you may recall, Cafe Moxie was one of the "up and coming" Vineyard restaurants. By the time it burned down July 4, 2008, getting a reservation there was pretty tough. Hope the original chef/owners return.
Martha's Vineyard dining recommendations?
Had to report back after a long weekend on MVI. Have to take back my comments on Black Dog. Went for breakfast (supposedly their strength) and had the worst meal ever at BD. English muffin was stale, ham dried out, poached eggs were hard cooked. cheese gummy.... Complaint gets a blank stare.
Atria is open for winters now. They have 2 for 1 burger nights. Burgers good, fries greasy (they took 3 bucks off our bill.
Had prime rib at the Grill on Main. Tasty and overall the usual solid performance. Nothing spectacular, but solid. They have 2 for 1 entree nights too.
Detente is now closed for winters. Curious. So was Lattanzi, sadly.
Happily, our dinner at State Road was fantastic. Virtually everything they serve here is local and/or organic and the chef is terrific. My shrimp pizza with onions and arugula was excellent. I ordered skirt steak medium rare and I actually got it that way! With a nice char yet! The side of turnip and potato gratin was among the best I've had and the sauteed spinach was also great. My wife had a salad of local greens, including pickled endive and roasted half chicken for her main (been a while since we've had chicken that actually tasted like chicken). Cinnamon and sugar limpopos were dessert (think beignets) with peach preserves and coconut milk "jam." Had to take a chocolate bar back to the inn too. Corkage was $9 per bottle, not too bad I thought since I saw our wine on another menu for $40 dollars more than what we paid for it in a shop. All in all a great meal.
Martha's Vineyard dining recommendations?
Almost forgot......Detente has a wonderful wine list. Also forgot to mention the Grill on Main in Edgartown. Very good with more reasonable pricing. They serve a 3 course prix fixe dinner for under 40 bucks. A deal. AND........State Road IS open. Dinner Thurs.- Sun.
Martha's Vineyard dining recommendations?
I agree with mvi on Lola's, Offshore, Art Cliff, State Road (not sure if they are still open). Disagree on Black Dog (much better than even 2 years ago), Alchemy (not a fan, period- mostly having to do with service and missing items). I always feel Lambert's Cove is too expensive.
Detente in Edgartown rivals State Road- maybe even better. These two places are pricey, but worth it.
Sharky's is average , but good value. One more Lattanzi's Pizza (also Edgartown) has a lot more than pizza and is moderately priced.
Wife and I will be out for Christmas in Edgartown. Will probably go to State Road for a splurge dinner, choose lesser places other nights.
Tango now Pond House - Glastonbury, CT
Maybe the location is jinxed. Lots of sad history here
"Uncorked" wine bar opening July 1 -- West Hartford, Blue Back Sq
My experience falls somewhat between unagi's and dmshack. The room is gorgeous- comtemp, but kind of cozy. Wines were very good, but you pay top dollar- not many bargains on the list. Service was fair at best (slow) and we also were missing items of tableware- odd since we were the only seated persons (Sunday 6 PM early summer) even though Blue Back was busy. I have to say the items we ordered were above average, but we left hungry- portions were quite undersized. I might return, though with several good value plays in WH Center I'd think twice.
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Blue Back Cafe
51 Isham Rd, West Hartford, CT 06107
Edible Chinese in/near Mansfield?
Don't eat Chinese!. Seriously maine, Mansfield is about as cosmopolitan as Portland. I guess the key word is "good." Our state alas, does not do Chinese or deli well (at least here up north). Last place I had anything decent in the area was at Willimantic Brew Pub. I guess Panda Express is safe, (maybe because it's a chain), but good? Meh. Maybe someone else knows a hidden gem, but the other places I've tried are not so hot.
Dinner at NuNu’s Bistro in Colchester, CT
Haven't been in maybe ten years. Glad to hear it's still pretty good. Not much out that way except for Harry's.
Excellent Dinner at Max Downtown, Hartford (Kinda Long)
Don't forget Max's Oyster Bar in West Hartford center- our favorite after the downtown location.
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Max's Oyster Bar
964 Farmington Ave., West Hartford, CT 06107
Excellent Dinner at Max Downtown, Hartford (Kinda Long)
Recently read that one of HT's original chefs was returning. Maybe there will be an improvement.
Fine-ish Dining Farmington Valley (CT)
The Cottage in Plainville is a good fit. Does vegetables well, not too formal so kids OK, and overall quality is excellent.
Take ages 4 and 6 to On 20, Metro Bis, Apricots, Piccolo? I wouldn't.
First timer to Martha's Vineyard, looking for restaurant suggestions!
Love? Nah, not completely. I have quibbles even about the expensive places. I mentioned the Grill on Main. One of the few places that has decent food for good prices (and a real $36 prix fixe all the time, where the portion size actually is the same as if you order a la carte). At the other "moderate" spots you pretty much get what you pay for, but we like Smoke 'N Bones for barbequed items. Strangely, their grilled vegetable platter is highly regarded by some vegetarians I know. Another good spot is Lattanzi's Pizza, which actually offers a lot of items besides pizza, many a somewhat smaller version of the meals they serve next door (the other Lattanzi's). If you get pizza , eat it there, as it gets a bit soggy on the way home.
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Lattanzis Restaurant
PO Box 407, Edgartown, MA 02539
First timer to Martha's Vineyard, looking for restaurant suggestions!
Since it is your first trip you probably won't notice that parking will be easier everywhere, especially in Oak Bluffs. Where are you staying?
Actually I feel L'Etoile is the most foodie oriented place on MVI with only Detente close to matching their wine list (though I prefer the way Detente lists their selections). I see what you mean about it being a bit like a NYC place, though their specials are usually local. State Road is an excellent choice though, with prices a bit better maybe.
I am not a fan of Alchemy, though it has many adherents. Atria is fine, a bit more elegant than most places. Love the food at Sweet Life. but I feel their portions are too small.
Slice of Life is very good, but Art Cliff truly is a diner and seems to be morphing into a greasy spoon of late (my last three visits were just so-so.......think I'll order pancakes or waffles with fruit next time). Really, our group is thinking that Black Dog Tavern might be getting back to its roots and may have the better breakfast. If the Grill on Main (Edagrtown) still offers their Sunday brunch I would strongly recommend it.
If you don't mind a ride Beach Plum Inn in Menemsha is another excellent dinner choice.
There are many more options, especially in the more moderate price range, but you've touched on some excellent choices, so no need to waver. Enjoy!
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Sweet Life Cafe
63 Circuit Ave, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Slice of Life
50 Circuit Ave, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Black Dog
11 Main St, Edgartown, MA 02539
The Beach Plum
50 Beach Plum Lane, Menemsha, MA 02552
State Road Restaurant
688 State Rd, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Martha's Vineyard with kids
Gee, our house is right near there, but I forgot about it. I agree it is a good choice, especially for breakfast. Very casual and close to the beach too.
eclectic thanksgiving restaurants in connecticut?
I know it's a long drive for you, but Mill on the River in South Windsor supposedly still does a Thanksgiving dinner served family style. This is not one of my favorite places, but I hear they do a great job with this particular meal.
Cavey's in Manchester usually serves on Thanksgiving and the setting and menu are more elegant than the Mill.
BTW, if you're close to the places you mentioned stop in and talk to an owner or manager. I can't believe someone won't be eager to book a party of 20 even in Fairfield County, though no one will be able to tell you the exact menu ahead of time, obviously.
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The Mill on the River
989 Ellington Road, South Windsor, CT 06074
Cavey's Restaurants
45 E Center St, Manchester, CT 06040
