What's for dinner?

Many thanks first to everyone who has responded to my catering question. My sister-in-law is very interested to talk to the folks that have been suggested and was blown away that Stephen would offer his services "quid pro quo".

Today's topic is a bit easier, I think, looking for some good casual options for dinner tonight. My aunt and grandmother are coming to town to visit us for a night and want to go somewhere local to grab a bite. Ideally we're talking about a place closer to the Springhurst area (although I could be talked into Frankfort Avenue) that isn't going to run us $30 a plate. My wife can be a little picky and isn't a fan of Goose Creek or Bristol, so those are out.

What other options are out this way that I may or may not know about?

Shady Lane Cafe

Brownsboro @ Watterson

Since you're in the Summit area, what about driving to Norton Commons? Karem's Pub is a small bar/restaurant with great sandwiches and appetizers. It's a small place, and everything is made to order, so it can sometimes be just a tad slow, but it's worth it. I'd say that the food is similar in quality to Shady Lane, mentioned above. I like their wraps , and my husband gets the quesadilla with triangle steak. My kids split a mac and cheese and a fruit cup. I don't usually like restaurant mac and cheese, but theirs is super cheesy.

The one big advantage to me of Karem's over Shady Lane is that Gilberto's is a couple of doors down, and I think their gelato is the best dessert in the city, hands down.

Chris,

We live in Springhurst too. Here are my suggestions:

Westport Village ( just shoot down Westport Road to Herr) would be good to eat and walk around a little. Napa River could be great if you watch entree prices. We had a very bad experience at Macca Grill, but I've heard others have liked it.

A little farther afield:

Cafe Lou Lou St. Matthews

Jack's

Shiraz

Deb

Equus also now comes in at under $30 with app and entree.

There are the 3 restaurants on River Road that are almost next to each other, near Wolf Pen and River Road (Chick Inn, Cunninghams, Eva Mae's Creekside)plus Captain's Quarters. Straight shot on Snyder Freeway/42, Wolf Pen/River Road. Also Blackstone and J Harrods at Prospect. Another straight shot on Freeway/42/River Road. Hope they are all still open. I have J Harrods on my list to try.

Blackstone Grill (in Prospect) is great, and (although prices just went up 10-20%) if you stick to salads, sandwiches, or entrees without app/dessert you'll be well under that price at a 3 1/2 star restaurant!

Turkey Joes is a great option in that area. The menu ranges from great wings, including Turkey wings, steak, burgers, and of course, Turkey dinners.

Since you're in the Summit area, what about driving to Norton Commons? Karem's Pub is a small bar/restaurant with great sandwiches and appetizers. It's a small place, and everything is made to order, so it can sometimes be just a tad slow, but it's worth it. I'd say that the food is similar in quality to Shady Lane, mentioned above. I like their wraps , and my husband gets the quesadilla with triangle steak. My kids split a mac and cheese and a fruit cup. I don't usually like restaurant mac and cheese, but theirs is super cheesy.

The one big advantage to me of Karem's over Shady Lane is that Gilberto's is a couple of doors down, and I think their gelato is the best dessert in the city, hands down.

Another option in Norton Commons is "Tea Station Chinese Bistro"....small, casual with an excellent menu.

I probably would take them to Cafe Lou Lou. The service is great, most entrees are available in two sizes and they have marvelous desserts! Depending on how adventurous they are Havana Rumba would also be a good choice. Karem's Pub in Norton Commons also has a nice menu and is very informal but probably will become quite crowded since outdoor seating is not usable. Mitchell's seafood in Springhurst has nice seafood, has recently become locally owned and is currently running some nice specials, my wife went there last night with a friend and had sautéed shrimp and scallops for $19.95.

[Robin Garr]

In addition to all the other good suggestions, Boombozz Pizza & Vino in Springhurst (Hurstbourne just south of Westport Road) has great pizza and a nice sit-down environment.

Don't forget about Austin's on US 42. The food is good and the prices are right.

I'm also seconding Ellen's recommendation for Captain's Quarters. Nice little drive ( BTW Springdale /Wolf Pen is clear all the way down- I just came from there. ) Their menu is great and varied, and the huge fireplaces in in the main dining room are very inviting in this weather.

Deb

After reviewing all the restaurants suggested and the evening's preferences, the family ended up at Cafe Lou Lou last night. To all who recommended it... kudos are extended from everyone in the party. Really good pasta, pizza, and salads. And the half-price bottles of wine weren't bad, either!

I had the carbonara, which is always a favorite of mine at any restaurant. This may be the best I've tried save for a great Italian place in New Orleans. My wife tried the Pizza Lou Lou, which was also very good. Aunt and grandmother both had the jambalaya pasta and they loved it (they both like spicy, Cajun dishes and it didn't disappoint). Can't remember the name of the wine my aunt picked out, but it was a Renwood (maybe a Zinfandel) and went well with the meal.

We definitely have a new Italian place instead of having to go to Macaroni Grille. Thanks for the suggestions, guys!

Hey, Chris - glad you enjoyed it! Tell your aunt and grandmother we can custom-adjust the spice level in most dishes for each order. If they'd like it spicier, just ask the server to let the kitchen know!