Woof, Woof
Who took the dogs out?
By Jan Walsh
Vino and Galley Bar’s annual Pooches on the Patio event benefits the Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS). This is an opportunity for us, “dog people” to dine out with our pups, donate to the GBHS, or even adopt a dog.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Wyckie and Rudy, had never dined out until recently when on a dog friendly trip to Georgia. They were so well behaved that I knew they would enjoy this event. Given it is the same night as one of Kev’s programs, I asked Ross to join me and hand him a leash. As Alison seats us at our table, “the boys” seat themselves under the table. Looking around this packed patio, we see many others have brought their dogs to dinner. And those who did not, wish they had. And as expected Wyckie and Rudy are perfect gentlemen as pups and people stop by to meet them.
Tonight’s Tito special cocktails of Arnold Palmer is perfect for golfer, Ross. And the Pink Poodle is mine… I had three poodles growing up. Mr. Maurice was white, Hooligan was black, and Pierre (Pee Dee) was silver. But I never had a pink one! The Palmer is a thirst-quenching mix of Tito’s Vodka, iced tea, and lemonade. And the Poodle is a pretty, semi-sweet blend of orange liqueur, cranberry, lime, and Tito’s. We pair the refreshing drinks with the Artisanal Cheese Plate and the Spinach Artichoke, Taziki, and Hummus appetizer. The cheeses include a mild, nutty Dutch Gouda, a silky, luxurious Baked Brie, and a subtly sweet, mildly acidic Havarti Edam. Soft pita bread and fruit complete this comforting cheese board. Highly recommended! The trio of dips is perfect for sharing. We dig in with crunchy house made pita chips and crudites of celery, pepper, carrots, cucumber, and tomatoes.
To pair with entrees, Ross enjoys an Espresso Martini, and I sip a glass of food friendly Lobster Reef Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. 
For entrees Ross catches tonight’s Fresh Fish, Pan Seared Redfish, and I have Caesar Salad with tonight’s soup, Lobster Bisque. The seasoned redfish tells the tale of its freshness with its sweet flavor, and medium firm texture. The generous portion of fish is accompanied by a light and delightful, lemon basmati rice and a medley of in season organic veggies. My crisp and crunchy salad is topped with house made croutons and is mixed with scrumptious creamy garlic parmesan and anchovy dressing. It pairs well with the thick creamy bisque, with the succulence of lobster.
Alison stops us, as we are leaving, with “people bags” of desserts. Vino’s famous Apple Fritters and Chocolate Brownies are later enjoyed at home, where we share tiny bites of the fritters with Wyckie and Rudy. And we save a bag for Kev. Now that the boys know they are allowed on Vino’s patio, they are ready for their next dog friendly dinner.
Download Birmingham Restaurants App
Copyright ©2024 Birmingham Restaurants