Orzo Kitchen and Wine

First of all, I've been a fan of Calvino Cafe for months and I knew about Orzo because they are under the same ownership. My friend S and I went to Orzo a few weeks ago because we had been dying to check it out. It was an early dinner because we were going to another function later that night, so it was fairly empty and we were seated immediately with a warm greeting. The waitstaff was beautifully attentive and helpful in answering our questions about the menu. As always, it was a pleasant surprise that there were enough vegetarian options on the menu that I had a hard time deciding what to order. S decided to get the shrimp scampi. I had been hearing about the pumpkin ravioli for a while (which they get from our own local Mona Lisa Pasta) so I decided on that. There was also a salmon dish and a seared tuna steak that looked fantastic. Both entrees were about $15.

While we waited for our food, the waiter brought us a dish of warm pita bread with a delicious red pepper hummus. It was a fantastic alternative to the bread-and-butter combo in your average restaurant. The food arrived quickly and S and I were immediately satisfied with our choices. The shrimp scampi was very garlicky, but somehow the white wine sauce balanced it out perfectly. The dish was so delicious I think that S actually cleaned her plate with her bread. The pumpkin ravioli was perfectly crisp. The combination of the pumpkin, pine nuts, and cranberries made this dish both sweet and savory.

The atmosphere was light, but sophisticated. The waitstaff was friendly, informative and attentive and the food was delicious. I've been dying to go back ever since...

jak n jil

This morning I met up with my family to watch my fourteen-year old brother's soccer game at Darden Towe Park (my family conveniently just moved to Afton not too long ago, so I get to see them frequently). In case you are wondering, they have a stacked rec league team and they played an awesome game. Anyhow, after the game we all wanted to grab some quick lunch. Not being one to embrace McDonalds if at all possible, I suggested we hop on over to Riverside Lunch. There were no tables available, however, so we just crossed the street and went over to Jak n Jils, the "famous hot dog" place. Well goodness me, were we in for a treat. I had heard great things, but this place exceeded my expectations. While the fam all got hotdogs, I ordered the Greek burger, which came with feta, tziki sauce, lettuce and tomato, fries, coleslaw, and a really good pickle. So wonderful! And the chocolate milkshakes were fabulous. This local joint had a constant flow of people, many ordering just their soft serve ice cream.

If you're looking for a good greasy spoon, this is the place my friends. Super friendly staff, great atmosphere, and food that hits the spot. Sorry R, this is probably not too vegetarian friendly. But man was my burger good...........