Everyone has an opinion on the local restaurants, and usually the less said the better. The neighborhood is packed with places to eat, but there are not many good ones. They come and go frequently, and surprisingly some of the worst are the longest lived. Service in the area has always been mediocre at best, but the prices warrant both 5 star food and service.
However, without being too cynical, I thought I'd share some thoughts when dining out.
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Chowin' down on Church St
This pleasant usually packed restaurant was nearly empty for lunch, perhaps because the music was deafeningly loud. The place is always clean and is usually populated with a great mix of neighborhood regulars. In my years of going there I have never had a bad dining experience. That in itself is amazing.
The server had to repeat the special three times, over the blare of the not very well chosen music. She was smiling and seemed not to notice the intensity of the jet engine-like roar.
The special of the day was mahi-mahi served over truffle oiled infused pureed parsnips. It was perfectly prepared, and came as a complete suprise. Chow is know for comfort food that is well prepared, but does not generally put out a dish of this caliber. The fish was flaky and delicate, and prefectly grilled. The real hit was the parsnip puree. It turned out to be the most enjoyable lunch I have had so far this year, except for the unwaiveringly horrible blare of eardrum shattering discordant music. Maria, my server, was genuinely enthusiastic about the entree as well, and came back several times to comment and ensure that all was well. For $14.95 it was a bargain. Generally the prices are around $10 for a lunch entree, but considering the quality and obvious care that went into the dish, it was more than worth it. Chow will not disappoint, and offers a full bar and outside patio seating in the rear of the restaurant. Just bring earplugs!
Chow, 215 Church St
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Prepare Yourself
After leaving Chow I stopped by my favorite bakery cum cafe just down the street, which occupies the spot once held by Just Desserts. The pastries and bread are beyond belief. It is worth a trip to the area just to gaze at the counter, laden with a wonderful variety of cookies, French pastries and artisan breads. The prices are low, the people are nice, and the atmosphere is casual. A great plus is the open kitchen, where one can view the bakers plying their craft. A must when anywhere near Church St! Very European and very delicious.
This trip I bought a loaf of seminola sesame bread, which was beyond words. Delicate and delicious, it transpored me back to the streets of Paris with one bite. When I questioned an item, I was immediately given a sample to see if it was something I would enjoy. For a quick, cheap holiday without leaving the city, try Thorough. There is outside seating on a small rear patio. Sandwiches and soup are also available, as are coffee drinks, teas and cold beverages.
Lovely, sweet, and a city treasure!
Thorough Bread and Pastry, 248 Church St
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