Phil can get excited beyond reason, talking about E Phones, I Phones or whatever that gadget is that he is constantly muttering to and tapping. His food forays are usually well planned and thought out, but once in awhile the modem disconnects.
Let me quote an account of one of his earlier trips to the Fifth Street Bar & Grill at 1028 Hillside.
“I ordered a $10 dish that the menu described like this:Fire grilled eggplant, roma tomato and mozzarina saladÌýon mixed greens with balsamic reduction, herb infused olive oil and roasted garlic rock salt.
ÌýPhil, Phil … there you go getting caught in a moment of food review madness, forgetting basic culinary survival. You don’t order fish at a steakhouse, nor do you go for the burger special at a seafood joint..
I’ve been to Fifth Street and by sticking to the basics, you will get away with a satisfying meal for two for around $50, including a couple of beers. Go for the individual pizzas and burger specials. What I like is the setup of $5 appetizers and $10 meals. Mix and match to get the right combination. Try going for all appetizers, rather than getting stuck at other establishments with a single over-priced entrée that you’re not happy with. I liked the seared west coast albacore tuna and crispy fried oysters. Two different tastes for $10..
Yes, it can get a little noisy and busy, but busy usually means good food.
Ìý
Ferris Grill & Oyster Bar at 536 Yates offers another lesson in basics. Oysters just might be a good thing to try here.
If you’re going for the first time, try the eight varieties of oysters for $25. Again, a spectrum of Ìýtaste for a reasonable price.
And don’t miss the fries. At its downstairs location, $3 or slightly more, depending if you want to venture into sweet potato territory, will get you a side. If you’re willing to spend $5-$6 for a big bowl, you’ll get a big feed.
Portions are big and doggie bags are expected, not frowned upon. That, I like.
