Goodness...dusting myself off and getting a few squirts of oil before I get started. Oh Yelp, how I have missed you...
In my new quest to schlep my self through as many new dining spots as possible, I was fortunate enough to receive an invite to Tuck Shop from a great co-worker. Aside from the multiple attempts to get the name right prepare yourself for at least one phonetic faux pas on the phone with friends...
You are welomed with a small sign made of kids' blocks...so you know that you are in for a treat. It's like how I would love my house to be if I had a 50's-60's ranch block. Decent sized bar, various seating arrangements and chair assortments with onr large table in the middle and a cozy lounge area.
The chorizo stuffed dates with arugala were delish - so simple but the savory crispy chorizo with sweet gooey date and a little melted cheese on top peppered with a small bite of arugala just go so well together. The mac and cheese was ok...needed salt and pepper and a little more moisture.
We ordered the chicken and white cheddar waffles - but we passed as they were out of waffles. Instead we went with the red beans and rice with linquisa sausage and shrimp and the maple roasted pork tenderloin. The red beans and rice had amazing flavors with the spicey and sweet sausage with just a hint of cinnamon. Some of the beans were a little hard but it was easy to overlook because everything tasted so good. The pork was ok - the maple and mustard seed sauce was good...almost undercooked but juicy and great flavor. But I have to say the gorgonzola grits really turned me off...I kept thinking my old bikram yoga clothes were under the table or something. Maybe I'll try the grits next time sans stinky cheese.
And yes, the meal ended with tiny little cookie dough balls...
Excellent service and tasty zingy gingerale. I am so looking forward to trying the chicken!!!!