I was so sad to learn that the first time I came here would probably be my last. They are closing soon to go onto bigger and better things and that to me is a shame. I loved the decor and the atmosphere. The man at the front who identified himself as the owner was so nice. He let us pick our spot and was ready on hand to help with any questions on the menu.
With the check in for Yelp I was able to score a free glass of tea. I picked the mint and it was a joy to drink after the meal. I am a tea lover and it was steeped to perfection. Yum. Already I felt at home and that I would love it here.
Appetizer:
For the appetizer I picked to eat one of the soups on the menu. I was really interested in the African Peanut Soup because I made a slight version of this with chicken and wanted to see how theirs stacked up.
African Peanut Stew: Sweet potatoes slow-simmered with tomatoes, ginger, garlic, coriander and a hint of cayenne. This stew was perfection. I loved how the flavors melded together in my mouth. Not at all to spicy but just enough to enjoy all the tastes that were moving over my taste buds. I would get this again and bump it up from a bowl to a trough please! The presentation was also beautiful. I loved how the dish was served kind of like a little art piece.
Main Course:
Meatball Sandwich:Seasoned meatballs made with lentils, brown rice and oats topped with marinara, mozzarella and parm. Not a fan of the sandwich. It was served on a hotdog bun and that could not take the weight of the meatballs. The sandwich had a lot less cheese than I would have liked. For a meatball sandwich I need a lot of mozzarella and parm, this had the bare minimum. I also decided to go with the coleslaw which was a really weird combo that didn't go well together at all. I should have known better but I felt rushed in my choice. Like oh gosh, he is here just pick! I am sure he would have let me have some time but when you are on a lunch break time is of the essence. The meatballs were also just a little much for me to handle. They were just a little gooey for my taste. I should have done something more basic. But for my first time I wanted it to be exciting. I was disappointed. It was just meh...
I would love to come here again and get the stew and something different on the menu. I would have loved to get the Reuben but it was crossed off the menu. Online it says Tuesdays only, but maybe they took it off?
I will say that my co-worker tried the taco salad and loved it. She thought that the tofu was wonderful and seasoned really well. The sauces that came with it were in her words spot on. I really watched her enjoy her meal while I struggled a bit with mine.
I would say, come here before they are closed! But be mindful of what you are ordering and what those tastes combining will be like on your palate.