Scallops Special
I shall never forget the scallops at Blueprint on 3rd.
By Jan Walsh
Kev and I are back at Blueprint on 3rd for the second time. In the meantime, we have raved to friends and family, word of mouth in person about this place, and I have on social media since our first visit.
Looking at the menu again tonight, we are tempted by exactly the same dishes as before, until I see Thursday’s daily special, Diver Scallops in Brown Butter. So, we do three of the same dishes as last time. But tonight, I catch the scallops, a decision I shall not regret. Six large, plump scallops float on a bed of brown butter sauce and organic, yellow grits, and are topped with local greens. The first cut proves the delicate scallops are cooked to perfection, glistening inside, and firm yet quivery on the outside. And the first luscious bite is an eye closer. Never had a better scallop! Enhanced by its rich, nutty, brown butter sauce, and accompanied by its creamy grits and crisp greens, this scrumptious plate is a synthesis of succulent flavors and a balance of delicate textures. Make reservations for Thursday night at Blueprint on 3rd when the scallops are the daily special because they are indeed very special.
Where’s the Crepe?
Bistro 218 serves authentic French crepes for lunch.
By Jan Walsh
Looking for French crepes in Birmingham? You may look far and wide because they seem to be MIA from most local, French restaurants’ menus. But not at Bistro 218.
My husband Kevin is a crepe enthusiast, both savory and sweet. And he has long loved Chef, Tom Saab’s lunch crepes at Bistro 218. Saab changes the fillings to fit the seasonal ingredients. And today Kevin discovers a new one—Chicken and Mushroom Crepes. The delicate crepes are filled with pasture raised chicken and local mushrooms, and are enhanced by a sherry cream sauce, Bermuda onion, and haricot vert. This scrumptious and delightful dish is light and fulfilling, satisfying his craving and big appetite for this French dish.
Bistro 218 serves lunch Tuesdays through Fridays in the Bar side, from 11:00 until 2:00. And from the looks of today’s packed house, I recommend lunch reservations.
Kathmandu Burger
Abhi Eatery and Bar makes a mean turkey burger.
By Jan Walsh
I know... It’s difficult to order anything other than Abhi’s famous momos and incredible sushi. But just try the turkey burger.
I first had this burger before Abhi Sainju opened his Abhi Eatery and Bar at The Summit. He invited my family and me in for a first taste of his evolving fare. We were expecting momos and sushi. But to our surprise, he wanted us to try his new burger as a taste test, and for feedback. We flipped over it and have been ordering it in the restaurant and for takeout ever since.
The Kathmandu Burger is made of turkey and Abhi’s magical blend of spices and is served with fried green beans. The thick, juicy patty overfills its locally made bun and is topped with red onion, and local tomato. And it completely satisfies my craving to bite into a bun because I can live without beef, but not without a burger. Abhi’s menu evolves so if you don’t see it or any other dish you know him for, just ask if they will make it for you.