India Bistro

My friend S and I went out for Indian food at my fave Ballard spot. This is her adorable self:

So cute, right?? ;)

I'm kinda embarrassed to say that I didn't think I liked Indian food for a long time. Like, I had never even eaten in an Indian restaurant until a couple years ago.

Complimentary Tamarind and Mint chutneys with Papadam crackers.

I think it was because I had some unfortunate experiences at potlucks as a child. Things were too spicy. They were too yellow. And exotic.

But later I figured out they are seriously...DELICIOUS! Like the Mango Chutney and Daal Maharani (I think it was Daal Maharani!) pictured above. And... the giant slab of steamy garlic naan, below. Mm hmm.

Naan is ready for her close-up!

But don't you worry...

I'm making up for my lost eating time now!

Monkey Bridge

Growing up I was a picky eater. It seems hard to believe now, but I put up a fuss even when my family went out for Chinese food! Of course, had I been exposed to more types of food earlier on, I might not have been so conventional.

Okay, yeah, knowing myself as a kid, I probably would have been.

But. I'd say I've grown as an eater, and am fairly adventurous. My mom says I'm "fancy" now (I prefer "discerning"). :) Anyway, one of my favorite haunts is The Monkey Bridge, a little Vietnamese restaurant in Ballard with scrumptious food and a nice, low-key atmosphere.

When we were getting over the plague colds, we stopped in for a bite.

Colorful, yes?

My companion had a tureen-sized beef pho, seasoned with cinnamon, star-anise and and cloves.

He ate this entire bowl.

With accoutrements.

I usually go for the pho, or banh mi, or the tofu bean dish--all fantastic, but I on this occasion I went with the Vegetarian Hot and Sour Soup, with tofu, Vietnamese rhubarb, and and pineapple.

It was very good, but I think I'd enjoy it more in a smaller size as a starter.

Trying not to look stuffed up.

The little details here at Monkey Bridge are very charming.

If you can, give it a try!

You won't be disappointed!

xoxo,
Robin

Lunch at The Dish

The Dish Cafe is a cheerful little diner that serves the classics (think burger dips and tuna melts). The vibe is whimsical, the clientele varied, and the food fresh.

My friend A. and I hit the Ballard location so she could deliver some big news. After a long job search, she's found fab employment that's right up her science-loving, bird-appreciating alley. Sadly, she has to move. Again. (Boo.)

Less sadly, there may be a trip to Vegas in my future...

Anywho, here's a peak at our delish dish-sesh at The Dish.

Firstly, there's flowers at each table. And I snagged a window seat. :)

I enjoyed a tasty beverage while waiting.

There's an extensive menu, including the popular ALL DAY BREAKFAST. Oh yeah.

The decor is awfully cute, too.

Made from a selection of license plates.

 So. Much. Hot. Sauce.

This isn't even all of it.

 A little sugar, sugar.

A had the Seattle to Portland omelet with bacon, tomatoes, spinach and Parmesan, which was, "fantastic," plus a scone and grilled potatoes.

The deMandwich, a grilled sourdough sammy with turkey, (amazing) thick-cut bacon, spinach and Swiss cheese, and turkey noodle soup. And, it might be strange to mention, but that pickle was one of the best I've ever had...

Oh, the bacon.

Our waitress kindly snapped this photo.

If you're looking for a neighborhood experience with charm, sass and (hot) sauce, check it out!

And giant congrats to A.! You deserve all the wonderful things that I know are headed your way.

xoxo,
Robin