Loblolly Scoop Shop is throwing its first ever Holiday Preview Party on Monday, November 27th from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets cost $20 and will include a sampler ice cream flight of 8 holiday flavors that Loblolly will roll out throughout the winter season. Also expect to see seasonal macarons, baked goods, and a full hot cocoa bar with all the fixings, including a selection of house-made marshmallows and toppings.
Flying Fish is kind of an underrated spot. Don’t get me wrong, it’s very popular, but because it’s a regional chain, I don’t think it gets a lot of love from writers, like me, who tend to focus on local establishments. That said, the food always floats around that “good to very good” range. My grilled shrimp kebab (“snappy”) with rice and beans was a solid dish. Unfortunately, the shrimp were overcooked but the accompanying rice and beans made up for the mishap. My buddy’s whole, fried red snapper was spot-on…and he even let me eat the eyeball after another friend, Woopigfoodie, dared me to do so.
Quick props to Alton Brown for putting on a wonderful show in the Robinson Center. I honestly had no clue what to expect from the evening. The first 20 minutes were a little slow, but things quickly heated up, and Brown put together three hours of funny, witty, and high educational material. I’d go see him again in a heartbeat.
The Catfish Hoppin John with fried Brussels, tomato jam, and grit sticks at South on Main was fantastic last Friday night. I had this dish last year…really enjoyed it…but this plate was even better. The key is getting a little of every ingredient on the fork at one time. Also, grit stick. Need I say more?
I posted on Facebook about MorningSide Bagels and how I wasn’t blown away by the bagels on a recent visit. Of course, about 30 commenters disagreed with me, proving once again how subjective this food thing can be at times.
My Chili-Rubbed Salmon Salad with black beans at Jimmy’s Serious Sandwiches was a bit underwhelming, mainly because of the overcooked fish. I love the spice rub on the salmon but not enough to order it again. My wife’s NY Strip Sandwich, on the other hand, proved to be the winner of the lunch, that’s if you don’t count my monster-sized chocolate chip cookie. That is a damn fine cookie. Overall, Jimmy’s is a solid, affordable lunch option with a convenient location.
