Check out that fire pit!

But we couldn't resist seeing the inside and our stomachs were growling with anticipation. As we were greeted, the hostess explained that we could help ourselves to the buffet-style spread and our waiter would take our drink orders (cash bar.)

Deciding on a drink was a very difficult decision thanks to an extensive list of over 100 whiskies, hundreds of craft beers and excellent scotch. The tight wine selection has something for everyone and is extremely affordable. A small but seductive cocktail list made me swoon. These beauties rival that of the venerable Velvet Tango Room with prices to match. I couldn't resist the Oak Barrel Old Fashioned. With macerated amarena cherries and a nice kick, it was the perfect way to start off the night.

This drink was served with a huge ball of ice in the glass in lieu of the traditional cubes. This keeps the drink cold while preventing it from becoming watered down. I only wish it was in a bigger glass...

The food was plentiful and delicious. It included a great assortment of the snack, share, flat bread and taco sections of the menu.

Trifecta of YUM! Arugula, pine nut, garlic confit, caramelized shallots and munster flat bread Duck fat popcorn with white  truffle oil and chili lime sea salt Devils on Horseback with bread cheese, medjool dates, fresno chili and applewood bacon

Every time we thought we had tried everything, more food would appear. We couldn't even try all the different tacos because we were stuffed so we are eagerly awaiting visiting on an upcoming Taco Tuesday.

We also can't wait to try some of the other offerings. Some items that caught my eye are:

• Open Faced Pulled Pork with jalapeno corn bread and apple slaw
• Lyonnaise Salad with gold potatoes, roasted onions, egg, + smoked pork belly
• Duck Confit Salad with watercress, arugula, cashews, bleu cheese and miso plum vinaigrette
• Amish Chicken and Waffles with blackberry maple syrup and cayenne honey butter
• Dr. Pepper Braised Pork Shank with garlic mashers and soy chile jam
• Baked Camembert Brie with honey, quince paste, strawberries and baguette

Holy yum!

There was even a live band Bacon Cake playing a great mix of tunes. 
Chef Demetrius knows how to throw a great party! I am so happy to have this restaurant so close to home because I can tell already that I'm going to be a regular. It will definitely be fun to work my way through the cocktail and craft beer lists. 

Recipe for success: Susan and Demetrius Congrats!

And a special thanks to my sis Katie  - what a fun night!

You may have noticed that I've been a little absent lately.  I have lots of posts in my head but haven't been able to get any publis...