Bittersweet Farms Tavern

438 Main Road

Westport, MA 02790

(508) 636-0085

www.lafrancehospitality.com

If I hadn't already known where to find Bittersweet Farms, I may never have even come upon it. Located on Westport's Main Road, Bittersweet Farms Restaurant and Tavern is tucked away at the quiet end of a busy area. Mom has read about the restaurant several times in The Herald News, but had informed me of their rather high prices. The tavern, however, was recommended by Liz, one of our greatest fans. She raved about their delicious food and great prices, so Mom and I decided to see for ourselves what Bittersweet Farms was all about. We arrived at Bittersweet at just about 3:15 p.m.



We pulled into the large parking area and immediately spotted a sign that pointed towards the tavern. A second arrow leading to the restaurant pointed up a flight of stairs. After taking some outside shots of the building, which is beautiful, Mom and I headed down the ramp and into the depths of the tavern. A nearby waitress/hostess told us to seat ourselves, and so we did. We chose a table that faced into the dining room, across from a large fireplace. While Mom was taking off her jacket, I noticed someone walking over to our table. I brushed it off at first, but was very surprised when I heard this person say, "Is your name Laura?" Lo and behold, it was Liz! The very reason why Mom and I were dining at the Bittersweet Farms Tavern. We had never met in person before, but had chatted several times via the New England Bites MySpace page. After introductions were exchanged, Liz dashed off to her table to rejoin her husband, Dave. Seconds later, we were joined by Erin D., our waitress. Dressed in uniform, she promptly took our drink order - two Diet Pepsis. Before retrieving the drinks, she left Mom and I with two thick, pleather-bound menus. After returning with our drinks, which came in two barrel-shaped glasses, Mom and I asked Erin to give us another minute to decide on an entree. The descriptions of everything sounded quite delicious, and Liz even mentioned that the pulled pork was really good. Since I am very easily influenced, when Erin came back to take our order, I chose the pulled pork sandwich ($9), which is served with cornbread, cole slaw, fries, and a fried pickle. Mom decided to go with the tomato and cheese pizza ($9), which is a Don Pepino classic according to the menu. Erin took away our menus as Mom and I checked out the interior.

This place is dark! It was so dark in here that the pictures aren't all that great. I could have used the flash on my camera, but a nosey customer to my left apparently couldn't take her eyes off me, and I didn't want to give her something else to stare at by busting out my digital camera. I had to rely on my cell phone to photograph the place. It was very pub-like and extremely cozy. The large wooden bar had a great shine to it and was decorated with various bottles and jugs. Wooden beams were visible overhead, and the lights from the remaining Christmas garland bounced off the painted grey walls. High wooden stools accompanied the bar, while the dining room was set up with wooden tables and chairs. A large flat screen TV faced our table and was turned to a sports channel so that patrons could see if the Patriots were going to win their 16th game in a row this season (and they did). The large fireplace, which Liz and Dave were sitting in front of, was turned off, but beautiful nonetheless. The only flames that were visible were coming from the small, red candle holders sitting atop each table. Aside from the footsteps coming from the upstairs restaurant (we were seated near a long set of stairs), Bittersweet Tavern is a very clean and mellow place to hang.

We hadn't been waiting long before our bread basket arrived. Liz had mentioned that we were going to be getting a lot of "bread and love," but I had no idea that we were going to get something so delicious! There were several different types of breads in the basket, along with side dishes of chili sauce and butter. The two slices of rye, cornbread, and a type of country white did not last long at our table. The bread was very fresh and the presentation was fantastic. We were very impressed, and we hadn't even gotten to the meal yet!



I like the fact that you can still get Bittersweet food without paying the restaurant prices. The tavern menu was fairly large, and included a lot of different meal options. Appetizers included mussels marinara ($8), steamed littlenecks and chourico ($11), and the Bittersweet wings (bone-in $7/tenders $8), which come in buffalo, barbecue, honey mustard, or Jamaican jerk flavors. Salads include the classic grilled chicken ($8), the portobello mushroom salad ($9.50), and the teriyaki glazed steak tips salad ($12), which is served over mixed field greens with an oriental honey ginger dressing. Surprisingly enough, Bittersweet Tavern has a raw bar! Raw food includes chilled jumbo shrimp ($2.75 each), oysters on the half shell ($1.85 each), and chilled ocean treasures, which includes six clams, six oysters, and four chilled jumbo shrimp ($23.50). Add a chilled, cracked lobster for another $9.50. The sandwich board states that all sandwiches are served with fries, cole slaw, or a demi salad. Choices include the lump crab cake club ($9.50), fried roast beef sandwich ($11.50), and the Bourbon Street "Barnsider" ($10.50), an open-faced six ounce grilled prime rib on Texas toast topped with bourbon-glazed onions and melted Swiss cheese. A large list of comfort foods includes favorites like the shepard's pie ($9), baked chicken pie ($9.50), and the Gourmet Bistro ($15), which is an eight ounce flat iron steak with fries and slaw. Add a hearty lump crab cake for another $6. Their pizza list starts with the tomato and cheese pizza ($9), with $1 for every added topping. Listed as a specialty pizza is the seafood pesto ($11.50), which includes grilled shrimp and scallops in a pesto cream sauce. Along with Bittersweet's large list of alcoholic drinks and frozen margaritas, there is also a large list of desserts. Liz recommends the Bittersweet Kiss ($7.50), which is a house specialty. This dessert consists of a warm brownie tart with chocolate ganache over a layer of raspberry coulis and white chocolate sauce, topped with vanilla bean ice cream. Sounds good, right? There is also bread pudding ($5), creme brulee ($6), and an Italian almond cream torte ($5.50), just to name a few. Also on the menu are the Bittersweet Farms specialty coffees and cappuccinos.

After Liz and Dave had finished eating their delicious looking desserts, they came over to our table to say their goodbyes and chat about - what else - yummy food. When Liz spotted Erin bringing over our entrees, she wished us well and left us to eat. Both dishes really looked and smelled amazing, however, after a few bites Mom asked me to take a slice of her pizza and try it for myself. After I took a few bites, we both agreed that the crust definitely tasted frozen (think Ellio's). Not that there's anything wrong with this, but we were quite surprised that Bittersweet did not use fresh dough. Maybe it is too much trouble to make the crust on the premises, but it would have been nice. The sauce and cheese were good, but not remarkable. Add that to the texture of the crust and you'll get a pizza that was a little disappointing. If we had to sum it up, it tasted like a good frozen pizza.



My pulled pork sandwich was very tasty. The bun was soft, and the juicy pork was mixed in with fresh veggies. Be warned - this is not a barbecued pulled pork sandwich. Although I was expecting that barbecue flavor, it was never advertised as so. I guess I am just used to always having that little kick when I'm having a pulled pork meal. The sandwich was, however, very tasty and I am glad that I got to try it. The fried pickle was delicious! The fried coating kept the pickle hot, which surprised me when I took the first bite. The cole slaw and fries were also very good, and I was glad to see that this sandwich plate came with a lot of extras. I gave Mom a piece of my sandwich, and she thought it was very good, but was missing that barbecue taste.



Erin appeared during our meal to ask how everything was, and we had no complaints. After we were done, she returned to leave the bill. She also mentioned that Liz had told her to tell us to have a happy new year. What a gal! Erin asked Mom if she would like to wrap up the rest of her pizza and my fries, and she did. Leaving the bill behind, she took the pizza and fries to the kitchen to pack them away. The bill came to:

2 Diet Pepsi @ $1.50 each - 3

Pizza - 9

Pulled pork - 9

Food total - $18

N/A beverage - 3

Tax - .90

TOTAL = $21.90 ... or was it???

It seems that a certain "restaurant angel" had decided to use some of her own money toward our bill, which brought it down quite a lot. Hmm ... I wonder who that was ... :) Whoever it was (wink, wink) totally made our day. We left the bill and a 20% tip for Erin on the table, and inquired about getting a take-out menu. She told us that Bittersweet had been overloaded with gift card requests for the holidays and did not have any left to give out. Thankfully, the full menu is available on the Internet. Erin also brought over two chocolate-covered mint sticks for Mom and I to cleanse our palate. Yummy!

One day, when we hit the lottery, Mom and I will be brave and try the Bittersweet Farms Restaurant. For now, we'll just concentrate on trying more things at the tavern. It is definitely the kind of place you could take a date - or your mother - and Mom and I look forward to having lunch here again. Once again, Liz didn't let us down!

Crossroads Restaurant

133 Market St.

Warren, RI 02885

(401) 245-9305

www.crossroadsrestaurantri.com

After a busy day of Christmas shopping on Wednesday, Mom and Dad decided to go to Crossroads for dinner. Crossroads is one of my family's favorite places to eat, and everyone that we've recommended this restaurant to has immediately fallen in love with it. Since Dad had ordered something that Mom knew I would have loved, we decided to visit Crossroads today for lunch at around 3:15 p.m. Mom definitely didn't mind visiting this gem twice in one week.







When we pulled into the parking lot, we spotted a few cars. Both Mom and I were glad that it didn't seem too busy, as this restaurant tends to fill up very quickly. They even have an extra parking lot across the street for the overflow of cars that usually happens on weekends. Once inside, we were greeted by my mother's favorite sign which reads "please seat yourself." She loves when restaurants allow you to choose where you want to eat your meal. Since Crossroads has three different rooms, we decided to sit in my mother's favorite of the three - what she likes to call the "Florida" room. Actually, we usually reference the TV show Golden Girls when sitting in this room. It resembles their back patio, or what they called the "lanai." As we walked into the room, we were followed by a hostess in a black uniform. She placed two plastic-covered menus on the table and told us that our waitress would be right over. I asked her if Crossroads offered a takeout menu (as I like to take them home to relay the meals and prices to our fans), but she said that they did not. However, she did say that their full menu is available for takeout - everything except the soup (as they don't have the containers for it).


While looking over the menu, which had a list of luncheon specials inside, we were greeted by our waitress. Her name was Becky T., and she quickly took our drink order. Both Mom and I ordered two Diet Pepsis (which came with lemons), and they arrived in real glasses. We needed another minute to decide what we wanted, so Becky retreated to the kitchen while Mom and I slowly made our choice. There are so many options at Crossroads, but I knew what I was there for - the spicy baked haddock. This is the meal that my mother had told me about. When my father had ordered it, she said that it looked amazing. I couldn't wait to see, and taste, it for myself. When Mom and I had finally made our decision, Becky came back to the table to take our order. Mom ordered the fish and chips ($13.95). Her dish came with soup or salad, and she chose a salad with French. I ordered the spicy baked haddock ($14.95), which came with a potato, pasta, or vegetable option. I chose fries, and I also got to choose a soup or a salad. When I asked what the soup options were, I was very surprised - and pleased - to hear that they offered French onion. This is almost never offered as one of the complimentary soups. I decided to go with the onion soup, and Becky graciously took our menus away. She even brought me a spoon so that I could retrieve a lemon seed that had slid into my soda. What a gal!


Open since 1977, Crossroads is a beautiful restaurant. The first room you hit when you walk in is their bar area. It is a beautiful wooden bar which also has a few tables behind a small partition so that patrons can dine while they drink. Mom and I call this the "trendy" room, as it resembles a night club hot spot. The second room is the "Florida" room. My entire family always sits in this room, and it's fantastic. There are faux plants everywhere, and a huge faux tree display covered with lights on one of the back walls. With only wooden tables and chairs, this room seems to cater to a family and an older crowd. There are bright floral tablecloths, beautiful skylights framed by light wood, and large sliding windows that face the street and the foliage outside. The white painted brick really keeps this room bright, while the various pictures, posters, and Christmas decorations give this room an friendly appearance. Christmas music played in the background while Mom was falling in love with one of the holiday decorations - a lighted stack of Christmas gifts. It really was cute, and I thought she was going to try and walk off with it! With our chosen table being directly under the large, lighted trees, we were able to see into the third room. Mom likes to call this the "pub," partly because it resembles an Irish pub. This room is usually reserved for parties, and today was no different. There was a velvet rope blocking anyone from entering, and I often saw waitresses darting in and out of there with handfuls of dinnerware.







Becky reappeared with my soup and Mom's salad. My onion soup was baked and topped with a thick layer of cheese. It was very hot, and extremely tasty. I have had the onion soup here once before and found it to be delicious. I was definitely not let down this time around. Mom's salad was very good. She said the veggies were fresh and crunchy, and the cup of French dressing was very tangy and refreshing. Also with our soup and salad, Becky brought over two Italian rolls, which were crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. They were so good.


You can spend quite a while trying to decide what to order at Crossroads, but there is virtually nothing about this restaurant on the Internet. Because of this, I've decided to list as much of the menu as I can. All food is fresh and prepared to order, which is a welcome change from some of the chain restaurants that simply just heat up a waiting dish of food. Appetizers include little necks ($8.95), buffalo chicken tenders ($8.95), crunchy chicken tenders ($8.95), Southwest egg rolls ($8.95), mushroom caps ($7.95), potato skins stuffed ($8.50), Maryland crab cakes ($9.95), fried calamari with hot pepper rings ($8.50), fried calamari in garlic and oil ($8.95), onion rings (small - $3.95; large - $4.95), grilled cheese sticks ($7.95), buffalo chicken wings ($7.95), Southern fried wings ($7.95), Pub fries (small - $1.95; large $2.95; with cheese - add $1.50), and a stuffed quahog ($3.95). Salads include a variety of Caesar salads with grilled chicken ($10.95), sirloin steak ($12.95), or grilled shrimp ($12.95). Julienne salads ($10.95) are created by choosing any combination of three meats and cheeses, including turkey, ham, roast beef, and Swiss, American, and Munster cheeses. Buffalo chicken salad with crumbled blue cheese is $11.95, while the spinach salads range from $4.95-12.95. Garden salads range from $2.95-10.95, depending on size and added meats and cheeses. If you’re looking for something light, all regular and specialty sandwiches are served with your choice of pub fries, potato salad, or cole slaw. Sandwiches include the Crossroad burger ($8.95), fresh grilled chicken breast (plain or Cajun - $8.95), Pub clubs ($8.95), chicken parmigiana, meatball sandwich parmigiana ($8.95), grilled chicken croissant ($9.95), Delmonico steak deluxe ($10.95), surf and turf sandwich ($13.95), which includes half lobster salad and half Delmonico steak with two toppings, New York style Reuben or Rachel ($8.95), tuna melt ($8.95), hot turkey melt ($9.95), veal parmigiana ($10.95), chicken salad ($8.95), tuna salad ($8.50), lobster salad ($15.95), vegetarian burger ($8.95), and a vegetarian pocket ($8.95). For something with a little more substance, all entrees include your choice of fresh garden salad or cup of homemade soup, and a choice of potato, pasta, rice pilaf, or house vegetable with hot baked rolls and butter. Chicken dishes include a Caesar Salad topped with fresh grilled chicken breast ($10.95), chicken Marsala ($13.95), chicken parmigiana ($13.95), chicken Manhattan ($14.95), chicken and broccoli saute ($14.95), and chicken picatta ($14.95). Seafood and pasta dishes include linguine with red clam sauce ($11.95), linguine with white clam sauce ($11.95), baked haddock ($13.95), little necks zuppa ($14.95), little necks Sicilian ($15.95), fried clams (market price), baked or fried sea scallops ($17.95), fresh fried oysters ($15.95), fried clams & scallops (market price), scallops in a white wine sauce over linguine ($17.95), fresh grilled salmon ($16.95), fresh grilled swordfish in lemon and butter or Cajun (market price), and four shrimp scampi ($16.95). Meat dishes include the Yankee pot roast ($13.95), meatloaf ($12.95), baby back ribs (1/2 rack - $13.95; full rack - $17.95), 12 oz. prime sirloin steak ($14.95), prime sirloin steak a la Mama ($15.95), Filet Mignon (market price), and the surf and turf combo which includes a prime sirloin steak served with your choice of two stuffed jumbo shrimp ($16.95), fried scallops ($17.95), fried clams (market price), fried haddock ($15.95), and fried oysters ($15.95). Luncheon specials are served until 5 p.m., and there is a list of specials inside every menu. Choices for the price of $8.95 include the open face turkey and steak sandwiches. Choices for the price of $9.95 include chicken parmigiana, meatballs and ziti, and homemade meatloaf. These meals come with your choice of New England quahog chowder, soup of the day, or fresh garden salad. Choices for the price of $10.95 include chicken Manhattan, steak a la Mama, scallops, chicken Marsala, and Yankee pot roast. These meals are served with a garden salad, and hot baked rolls with butter. Also for $10.95, you can choose to get a cup of New England quahog chowder, French onion soup, or the soup of the day with a luncheon side of fish and chips, fried oysters, clams, scallops, or prime sirloin steak. All luncheon sides are served with Pub fries. For the best of both worlds, you can order a soup and half sandwich. Sandwich choices include the solid white tuna or chunk white chicken salad ($8.50), Reuben or Rachel ($8.95), steak ($8.95), and 100% Lobster salad ($10.95). All sandwiches are served with pub friends. There is also a large selection of wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.

It didn't take long for our food to arrive. Becky brought over the two meals, and everything looked and smelled amazing. She offered to bring us ketchup and vinegar for our fries, and I accepted the offer. She returned briefly to give us the condiments, and then left us to dig into our entrees. Both Mom's fish and the chips were terrific. The fries were obviously hand cut, and were of the steak fry variety. They were very potatoey and delicious. The fish itself was a large piece of snow white haddock and it was fried just right. It had a light, thin crust on it that was crispy and not at all greasy. It was the lunch portion of fish, and thank God she got that size because it was really big enough. She enjoyed it very much. It was a great dish.





My spicy baked haddock was everything that Mom described, plus more. Topped with a layer of peppers, onions, and chourico, the haddock never lost its flavor. If anything, the peppers, onions, and chourico only enhanced the taste of the delicious fish, and the haddock never got squashed under the weight of everything else. The chourico was very meaty, and the vegetables were very fresh. The sauce that everything was baked in was very spicy, but not overwhelming. The only thing that was overwhelming was the heat, as it was served in a metal serving dish. This, however, is not a bad thing. Like Mom, I can't stand when food is not served hot. Even my fries were delicious. The thick steak fries were hearty and tasty.





Both Mom and I ate every bit of our meals, and only a few fries were left behind on our plates. Becky came over to see if we wanted coffee or dessert, but we declined. She had also come over during our meal to see how everything was. Becky cleared away our plates and brought the bill:

2 Diet Pepsi - $5

*Fish & chips - 10.95

Spicy haddock - 14.95

Subtotal - $30.90

Tax - 2.50

TOTAL = $33.40

*This is the price for the lunch portion.

We left $40 on the table for Becky, including 20% tip for her excellent service. Although we did not use the restroom on this visit, Mom has on previous occasions, and she found it to be very clean and nicely decorated.


Feeling very warm and satisfied, Mom and I walked back to the car and vowed to return to Crossroads as soon as we can. With Christmas almost here, a gift certificate to Crossroads would be a great gift for just about anyone. I bought one for my parents a few years ago, and they raved about their meals for days. Crossroads is definitely staying put on our "excellent" list.


Crossroads is closed on Monday, but open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. Lunch is served daily until 5 p.m.

Black Goose Cafe

2160 Main Road

Tiverton, RI 02878

(401) 816-0882

www.blackgoosecafe.com

With three great recommendations for the Black Goose Cafe from my friends Gregg, Lindsey, and Liz, Mom and I were very excited to be heading there for lunch on this chilly afternoon. When we first pulled into the small parking lot, we didn't see any other cars. Thinking that the Black Goose might be closed, I gave them a call on my cell. After all, why get out of the car when you can just pick up a phone? Someone did answer the phone, so Mom and I quickly found ourselves headed up the stairs that lead to the patio area. After some mix up with the front door (perhaps they should put an arrow that points to the actual entrance), Mom and I stepped inside at 3:30 p.m.

Not having been there before, we weren't sure how the ordering process works. Luckily, a polite blonde cashier noticed our confusion and told us how to order. She said that we can look over their menu and place our order at the counter. Then, if we were to dine in, she would bring our meals over to the table we had chosen. Sounded good to me! I took two laminated, double-sided menus from the cashier and had a seat with Mom at a table by the window. There were a lot of items on the menu that looked good, but I had my sights set on The Parisian - a panini sandwich recommended by Liz. There was also a large chalkboard by the cash register that listed more of their delicious options. I spotted a drink section and wanted to see if they had the pumpkin chai that Liz had also suggested. Although I didn't see it, I did see a gingerbread chai that sounded good. With Mom having picked her meal, I took the two menus up to the counter. We had both chosen two of the Black Goose customer favorites (noted by the black goose icon on the menu). I went with The Parisian ($6.75), which consists of grilled chicken breast, herb cheese spread, fresh baby spinach, provolone, and caramelized onions. Mom chose the Et Tu Brute ($6.95), which is grilled chicken breast, applewood bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, and shaved Parmesan with a stab of Caesar dressing on country white. I also ordered both of us two large gingerbread chai drinks ($3.95 each). The bill came to:

Parisian - $6.75

Et Tu Brute - 6.95

2 Gingerbread chai - 7.90

Subtotal - $21.60

RI Tax - 1.51

RI Tax 1 - .22

TOTAL = $23.33

After paying, I asked to take a menu back to the table so we could further examine it. The cashier informed me that they had takeout menus available. I grabbed one and took my seat by the window, which overlooks Tiverton's Nanaquaket Pond. After sitting down, I noticed that they did in fact have the pumpkin chai. Oh well - maybe next time!

The Black Goose is very cute and trendy, yet welcoming and pleasant. The black chairs and wood tables really stand out against the beige and green walls. There are no booths here, and only about eight tables, so I'm assuming that they do a substantial takeout business. When walking in, customers are greeted with a large display case that features some of their baked goods, and two large drink cases that house various soft drinks and flavored waters. There is also a display area that features several varieties of New England's favorite potato chip - Cape Cod (I personally think they are way too greasy). Soft music and lighted lanterns bring a sense of tranquility to the dining area, and a station with extra napkins and straws is decorated with a large corkboard displaying local advertisements and activities. There is also one unisex restroom at the back of the restaurant, and several large windows that overlook the pond.

view from the window

Along with the large chalkboard that features daily specials and winter specialities like the apple pie and eggnog lattes, the Black Goose has both a breakfast and a lunch menu. Their breakfast panini list includes the egg, black forest ham, and provolone sandwich ($4.95), while their breakfast stratas are their house speciality. Stratas include the cinnamon raisin French toast souffle ($4.95), and the hash brown and applewood bacon souffle ($4.95). Quiche varieties include the three cheese ($4.95), and the spinach, tomato, and Swiss ($4.95). Baked goods are also available like the raisin scones ($1.95) and the bagels and cream cheese ($1.99), and the ginger scones ($1.95) are a customer favorite. You can also order a bowl of steel cut Irish oatmeal ($3.95), with toppings ($.25 each) including pecans, almonds, dried cranberries, raisins, and banana chips. For healthier diners, a cup of fresh fruit ($4.95) or fresh fruit, granola, and yogurt ($4.95) is available. The beverage brands include Seattle's Best Coffee and Tazo Teas, and other options include fruit juices, smoothies, frozen coffees, and an espresso bar. For lunch, the Black Goose features a list of Greek cuisine, and a note at the top of the menu reads that "Yia Yia's recipes are served with rice with red sauce and a side Greek salad." Specialities include the moussaka ($8.95), the pastitsio ($8.95), and the spanakopita ($7.95), which is spinach and feta cheese blended between layers of crispy phyllo dough. Lunch salads include the Greek ($5.99) and Caesar ($5.99), and you can add grilled chicken, tuna salad, or chicken salad to any of them for just $1.99. Available soups and quiches vary daily, while a list of deli sandwiches include the Black Goose chicken salad ($5.75), the roast beef ($5.95), and the grilled chicken breast ($5.75). You have your choice of breads and assorted toppings. Paninis include The Godfather ($6.75), which is prosciutto, Genoa salami, pepperoni, provolone, roasted red peppers, basil, and baby spinach, while the signature sandwiches include The Bat Out of Hell ($6.95), which is grilled meatloaf, cheddar cheese, and spicy caramelized onion sauce on country white bread. All sandwiches and paninis are served with a side special and a deli pickle.

Our chai had arrived first, and they were incredible. The gingerbread flavor was very potent and the drink itself was very creamy and delicious. The sandwiches arrived soon after in small baskets, accompanied by cups of potato salad, two pickles, and silverware. We both commented on how large the sandwiches were, and that we certainly got a lot for our money. Mom's sandwich was served on very large slices of country white bread, which was very soft with a crisp crust. The chicken was freshly grilled - not deli meat. It was nicely sliced into the sandwich. The bacon was perfectly done, and was thick and meaty. The romaine was nice and crisp, and the Caesar dressing was a cool touch. It was a great combination, and Mom loved it. It was almost like having a chicken Caesar salad in the form of a sandwich. She would definitely get it again. The only downside was that it seems to have been buttered on the outside, and since her sandwich was not going to be grilled, she didn't know why it was buttered. It made the sandwich a little bit greasy and moist to hold.

My sandwich was amazing as well. I fell in love with the lean, grilled chicken breast, and the cheese, spinach, and onions were all very fresh and tasty. Liz was right - this sandwich is fantastic! The only downside was the butter. Because my sandwich is a panini, it gets placed on the grill. This is fine, but I believe mine may have been a little over-buttered. It was difficult to hold, and was very greasy. It almost took away from the taste of the sandwich. Perhaps if they were to go a little lighter on the butter next time, I would have been able to enjoy it even more. Also, the potato salad they served with it was delicious. It was very fresh and creamy, and the red potatoes were served with the skin on. It was great!

Both Mom and I were approached by one of the servers during the meal and were asked if we would like a box for the other half of our sandwich. Since we hadn't finished eating yet, Mom declined. Although neither of us were able to finish that second half, we definitely enjoyed ourselves and were very glad we had chosen both of the sandwiches. Now, here' s a question. Both Mom and I were confused as to whether or not we should leave a tip. We got some money out and placed it aside, but since we ordered at the counter, we weren't sure who would be getting the money. I wanted to wait and see if some of the other customers had left a tip. Mom decided to use this time to go to the restroom. She said the bathroom was average, but she was a bit horrified to see that the bathroom window did not have a curtain. Thankfully, the window is very high up on the wall so that no peeping Toms are able to take a look inside. Also, the bathroom seemed to be missing some supplies. When Mom came out, another table was getting ready to leave. I looked at what they'd left behind for the waitress, but did not see a tip. Confused, Mom and I left nothing (sorry!) and said goodnight to the staff. When we got to the car, we were still wondering if we should have left a tip. Does anyone know the answer to this? What is the proper etiquette?

We were so impressed with the Black Goose, that we tried to stop by again - this time for breakfast. Unfortunately, there was a snowstorm and our plans had to change. Luckily, we don't think the Black Goose is going anywhere anytime soon, and a big thank you goes out to Gregg, Lindsey, and Liz for suggesting such a great place.

The Black Goose Cafe is open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Kozy Nook Restaurant

645 State Road

Westport, MA 02790

(508) 675-5455

kozynook@verizon.net

UPDATE: The next day, Mom and I decided to go back to try a Kozy Nook breakfast. I ordered the biscuits and gravy ($4.99), while Mom ordered the Kozy Nook special ($4.99), which consists of three pancakes, three eggs, and your choice of bacon, ham, or sausage. Dawn was our waitress, and she was very friendly. The breakfast was just as good as the lunch, but we did notice that a soda I had ordered during the middle of the meal was left off of our bill, just like the clam cakes had been the day before. Even so, we can't wait to return! I was able to capture this shot of the second dining room. Check out that high ceiling!

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Date: 12/5/07

Mom and I hadn't been to the Kozy Nook since it moved from inside the Westport Plaza to its own building in the same lot, so I was glad when Mom suggested that we have breakfast there before we embarked on a busy day of Christmas shopping. We pulled into the large parking lot at around 12:30 p.m.

Unfortunately, once we stepped inside Kozy Nook, we noticed that breakfast is only served until 11:30 a.m. For some reason, Mom had thought that it was served all day. I asked her if she wanted to go elsewhere, but she said that she was interested in lunch. A hostess wearing a green Kozy Nook shirt greeted us and led us to a booth close to the bar area. She left two menus on the table with a list of daily specials and informed us that our waitress would be right over.

Both Mom and I commented on how remarkably clean everything was. The walls are painted a bright white and the bar and booths are made with a very light wood. The sun was shining through the windows topped with country curtains that surround the building, while a large flat screen TV hung above the bar where a few local diners had gathered and were perched upon the high bar stools. There seemed to be only booths at the Kozy Nook, but they were very roomy and comfortable. Aside from the Christmas decorations the staff had put up, the walls of the restaurant feature local art, photographs, and colorful advertisements. You could tell that this restaurant was definitely the hot spot for the latest in Westport gossip.

While Mom and I were reading the menu, we were greeted by our waitress. Her name was Emmy, and she quickly took our drink order - two Diet Cokes. She returned with the Cokes in plastic glasses while Mom and I asked for another minute to decide what we wanted. When we were ready, Emmy returned to the table. Mom ordered the French meat pie ($6.99) which came with her choice of veggie and potato. She chose corn with mashed. I ordered a cup of kale soup ($1.79) and a tuna melt ($5.49), which came with fries. Emmy took away the menus and told us that our food should be right out. A few minutes after she walked away, Mom had remembered that she wanted to order a half dozen clam cakes. She managed to flag down Emmy, who was quite busy with all the customers that had packed into the dining area. The order was placed for the clam cakes ($2.99), and Emmy told her that she would try her best to have them come out at the same time as our meal.

For a small restaurant, the Kozy Nook definitely has a lot of choices. Appetizers range from a stuffed quahog ($2.49) to a platter of super nachos with chili ($7.99). Their featured appetizer is the chicken quesadilla ($6.99), which is seasoned chicken in a warm flour tortilla with a blend of melted cheese, bell peppers, and onions, served with sour cream and salsa. Burgers and sandwiches, all served with fries, include the "Big Daddy" burger ($6.99) which is a 10 oz. Angus burger grilled to order and served with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a soft bun. The sandwich list also features a boneless buffalo sandwich ($5.49), and a chourico and chip sandwich ($6.99). A little different for this sort of restaurant, the Kozy Nook also serves pizza. All pizzas are made on a 12" crust, and gourmet versions include the vegetarian ($8.99), meat lovers ($9.99), and chicken broccoli Alfredo ($8.99). You can also opt to create your own pizza starting at $6.49 each. The Kozy Nook also serves pasta and seafood dishes, such as the linguini and white clam sauce ($9.99), the fish and chips ($8.49), and the shrimp scampi ($10.99). Also featured on the menu is a chicken stir fry ($6.99), which consists of chicken tenderloins and fresh veggies in an oriental stir fry sauce served over a bed of rice. It seems that the main attraction at the Kozy Nook is their home cooked favorites. Each favorite is served with your choice of potato and vegetable. Choices include the sirloin tips ($8.99), country fried steak ($7.99), Ma's meatloaf ($7.99), roasted turkey dinner ($7.99), and the boneless fried chicken ($6.99), which is tender chicken hand-dipped and fried to a golden brown. You can add a side salad to any home cooked favorite, pasta, stir fry, or seafood dish for only $1.99. A dessert menu features goodies like the chocolate ecstasy ($4.49) and the freshly made Kozy Nook pies ($2.99). Breakfast, which is served until 11:30 p.m. daily, include items like omelets, pancakes, breakfast meats, sandwiches, and steak and eggs ($6.99). Gift certificates are also available at the Kozy Nook.

My soup arrived first. It was delicious and consisted of quite a lot of kale, beans, potatoes and chourico. It was very hot and satisfying - a perfect mixture of spice with a savory taste.

It didn't take long for our entrees to arrive. Mom's French meat pie was an excellent choice. It was very meaty with a nice, flaky crust. The slice of pie was thick, and was a spicy combination of beef and pork. It was served with a good portion of real mashed potatoes, which were also delicious. The corn came in its own little dish, and was served nice and hot. Mom said it was one of the tastiest meat pies that she has ever had, and she would definitely order it again. She highly recommends it!

My tuna melt was great. It was served on an English muffin, and on each half of the muffin was a scoop of tuna, a slice of tomato, and a piece of cheese. At first, I didn't know how to eat it. Mom told me to just pick it up and put it in my mouth, but it just seemed wrong. I finally decided to eat it with my knife and fork, and boy was it good. The tuna was fresh, and so was the cheese and tomato. The English muffin really held it all together, and the fries were excellent and tasted homemade.




The clam cakes did end up arriving with our entrees. Served with some greens and a lemon, the clam cakes were very tasty and full of clams. The cakes were not greasy at all, and each one had a very nice crust.




Everything we had was so delicious. Mom raved about the meat pie to Emmy, who had returned to the table to clear away our plates and bring the bill. When we received the bill, I noticed that there was an error to our advantage. Since Mom had ordered the clam cakes after Emmy had already put in our order, they were accidentally left off the bill. She flagged Emmy down and quickly had the issue resolved. Emmy thanked her. I'm guessing that most people would choose not to say anything, but the Kozy Nook is a small restaurant, and I would feel bad ripping off this kind of establishment. Perhaps we wouldn't feel the same way if this happened at T.G.I. Friday's. The final bill came to:

2 Diet Cokes - $3.58

French meat pie - 6.99

Kale soup - 1.79

Tuna melt - 5.49

1/2 doz. clam cakes - 2.99

Subtotal - $20.84

Tax - 1.04

TOTAL = $21.88

We left $25 on the table for Emmy and headed for the door. As we left, there was a young girl who was painting a Christmas scene on the outside windows. I should mention that during the beginning of our visit to the restaurant, I used the restroom. It was immaculate. For a small restaurant, they really have an advanced facility. It was spotless.

I think that the Kozy Nook is a fantastic place to go if you want home-cooking for a reasonable price. The staff is friendly, the interior is very clean, and the atmosphere is a welcome change from the hectic chain restaurants in the area.

Kozy Nook is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.

LePage's Seafood & Grille

439 Martine St.

Route 6

Fall River, MA 02723

(508) 677-2180

After winning a $10 gift certificate from The Keri Rodrigues Show, a WSAR favorite, Mom and I decided to visit LePage's Seafood & Grille. Located on the shore of Watuppa Pond near the old railroad tracks, we were very hesitant to get out of the car on this freezing day. However, we were hungry. Fighting against the icy cold wind, Mom and I rushed inside the dining room entrance at around 1:30 p.m.

side parking lot

main entrance

There weren't many cars in their large side parking lot, so we figured that we wouldn't have any trouble finding a table. We quickly spotted a sign that read "please seat yourself." Mom loves when restaurants let the customers choose who they want to sit next to. We picked a table in the back so that I could get a full view of the restaurant. A hostess spotted us walking in and came over with two plastic covered menus and a list of the daily specials. She mentioned that when customers get to seat themselves, they almost always choose to sit in the back. She walked away and Mom and I started checking out the menus. I have been to LePage's twice before, and Mom has been here a few times with Dad. Each time we've visited, the food was very good. Although Mom had to send a hamburger back on one visit because it wasn't cooked to her liking, the rest of that meal was perfect. That's why I was surprised to learn that my friend Gregg is not a fan of this restaurant. I think he said that he only visited once, but perhaps it was on an off night. I've always had a good time here.

Looking up from my menu, I spotted a young man walking over to me. He was not in a uniform, and I was a bit confused as to who he was. It turned out to be our waiter. He quickly took our drink order - two Diet Cokes - while Mom and I decided what we wanted. Almost exactly at the same time, we spotted something on the dinner specials' menu that we both wanted to try - the pumpkin manicotti ($8.99). Topped with a sherry sauce, the pumpkin and ricotta filling sounded delicious, and we couldn't wait to have it. I know what you're thinking - why didn't they order seafood? Well, we've had seafood here before and it has always been good, so why not try some of their other dishes? I actually had every intention of ordering my favorite dish - the Portuguese scrod. However, the manicotti changed my mind. I was hoping that I was making a good choice.

The waiter came back with our drinks (in plastic glasses), and was now ready to take our order. He politely asked us if we would like more lighting, since we were in the back of the restaurant. We said no, and began to rattle off our lunch wishes. We both ordered the pumpkin manicotti, and the waiter asked if we had tried the dish before. We said no, and he mentioned that he wanted to know how it tasted. We told him that we'd let him know. We also ordered our favorite appetizer - the clam cakes. We ordered six ($3.99), and were excited to be having them because they are some of the best clam cakes we've ever had. He took the menus and walked away, and I began taking notes on the beautiful decor at LePage's.

Being a seafood restaurant, LePage's has a lovely nautical theme. With navy blue walls, white ceiling fans, and a huge picture window overlooking Watuppa Pond, you really do feel like your on board a ship. There are no booths here, just tables and chairs covered with blue and white nautical table cloths with a glass top. Atop each table is a small oil lamp, a pleather-bound wine list, and a list of new Starbucks enhanced liquors that Mom had been drooling over. There is an alcove with seating and a yellow colored wall on one side of the restaurant. Each window is dressed with a navy blue and white striped awning and gleaming white shutters, and around the restaurant are large paintings of various ships and sea creatures. There is a patio at the back of the restaurant where patrons can dine on warmer days, and a bar area on the other side of the building with televisions and booths for people who want a little something with their beer. A jazz fusion kind of music played in the background, and the staff had trimmed the restaurant with several Christmas decorations.

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Everything I've ever had here has been delicious. I apologize for the lack of prices, but the take-out menu did not list them. Appetizers range from $3-15 and include favorites like fried clams, oysters, smelts, and calamari, buffalo wings, onion rings, pan sauteed lobster cakes, New England clam chowder, and littlenecks steamed in garlic and oil. Salads include the Caesar, and you can add grilled tuna steak, chicken breast, colossal shrimp, or scallops. Lobster, crab, and tuna dominate the sandwich list, along with others like the chourcio, fish, and 8 oz. black Angus pub burger. All sandwiches are served with your choice of fries or potato salad. Pasta dishes include the salmon penne, which is grilled salmon over penne pasta with asparagus, black olives, sun dried tomatoes, and Gorgonzola cheese in a white wine beurre blanc. Also listed is the littlenecks over pasta, shrimp Mozambique (a Fall River favorite), and the chicken Mozambique over penne. The "landlubber" favorites include the marinated tenderloin tips, surf and turf, and the Captain's cut prime rib dinner (32 oz.). You can also order the Mate's cut (16 oz.). Finally, the main attraction at LePage's is the seafood. With everything from a plate of fried clam strips to the bouillabaisse and baked stuffed shrimp, any seafood lover will have trouble narrowing down their choices. The baked stuffed medley is filled with lobster, sole, shrimp, scallops, white wine, butter, and cracker crumbs, while the blackened Yellowfin tuna is finished with avocado butter and a roasted red pepper jam. My favorite - the Portuguese scrod - is baked in a blend of olive oil, sweet and hot red peppers, tomatoes, onions, and spice. It is served in a silver tray so that it stays very hot, and it absolutely delicious. Dad, on previous visits, has enjoyed the fried seafood platter - a mix of fish, clams, scallops, and shrimp. All the fried seafood dinners are served with fries and cole slaw, and early bird specials are available, along with a 10 percent senior citizens discount on Monday and Tuesday. Owners Carol and Eric LePage give a small biography of the restaurant on the take-out menu, along with a map and directions to the restaurant. LePage's also does catering, and function rooms are available, along with gift certificates that will come in handy over the holiday season. They also accept reservations. After being in business for 19 years, the LePages know what customers want - affordable prices and delicious food. I think that they have certainly got it right.

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Before we knew it, our clams cakes had arrived. The waiter commented on how good they looked, and he was right. I've never seen a clam cake look more perfect. The waiter asked if we wanted malt vinegar, and I said yes. When he brought back the bottle, Mom and I dug into the clam cakes. We both thought that they were fantastic. They were light, fluffy, and not at all greasy. It was exactly how clam cakes should be cooked - perfectly. They contained several meaty clams which gave them a delicious taste, and there was even an extra cake added to our original six. This appetizer couldn't have been better.

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The waiter reappeared to ask us how the clam cakes were, and we raved about them. After taking away the plate, I noticed that another table was being given a basket of bread. We've always had bread when we've visited LePage's, and I was surprised that we hadn't yet been given a basket. Before my jealousy over the other people's bread took its toll, our food arrived. Both platters looked and smelled amazing, and Mom put an end to my bread envy and asked the waiter if we could have some rolls. He quickly brought over two small Portuguese rolls with butter. Now the dining could begin!

When we first bit into the manicottis, we both said the same thing - "I can't taste the pumpkin." Mom said that the filling tasted more like a stuffing, and thought the main body was the ricotta cheese, which held everything together. She said that it tasted like it was flavored with some pumpkin, and definitely red pepper and onion. It made for a tasty filling, but the pumpkin taste did not predominate. Surprisingly, they seemed to have baked the manicotti until it was crisp. That's different from the usual soft manicotti, but it gave the dish a nice little crunch and didn't distract from the taste. The sauce was delicious. It was a sherry cream sauce and Mom had never had anything like it before. It complimented the manicotti, and as a matter of fact, Mom would say that it kind of dominated the dish. The sherry was the most distinct flavor you could pick out, even more than the vegetables. I felt the same way. I definitely didn't taste the ricotta, but the filling had the ricotta consistency. At times, all I could taste were the veggies and sherry, but that is not a bad thing because it was very good.

Mom's plate

my plate

Both Mom and I were very pleased that we tried this new dish. The waiter appeared during the meal to ask how everything was, and we told him that it was very good. After we had finished, he reappeared to clear away our plates and bring the check. It was at this time that I went to use the ladies' room, which was beautifully decorated to match a painting on the wall which featured a row of Cosmopolitans. This single unit was very clean and organized. When I returned, I saw the bill:

2 Diet Cokes - $4

6 clam cakes - 3.99

Pumpkin manicotti - 8.99

Pumpkin manicotti - 8.99

Subtotal - $25.97

Tax - 1.30

TOTAL = $27.27

Adding in the 20% tip before we used our coupon, we left $33 on the table ($10 of it being the certificate). Now it was Mom's turn to use the restroom. While she did I sat in the lobby and grabbed one of their take-home menus. I was tempted to take one of their real menus because it listed the prices, but I controlled myself. I also noticed that they carry a lot of local magazines and newspapers, and there is also a specials' board that lists some of the day's meals.

We left the restaurant feeling happy and full, only to get outside and freeze up again in the icy wind. Thankfully our tummies were still warm and satisfied from the delicious meal we had at LePage's. This is definitely a Fall River gem, and we look forward to going back - with or without a gift certificate!

LePage's Seafood & Grille is open from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. During the winter season, please call to verify these times.