April's dining experiences were somewhat lighter this month due to a family trip to Tampa, but the meals we did enjoy ranged from quick work lunches to exploratory dinners with friends. Each restaurant visit offered its own unique appeal, from casual fast food to sophisticated drink sessions.
Freddy’s Custard
A work team lunch brought me to Freddy’s Custard, conveniently located near our office. I opted for a bacon cheeseburger and fries, which unfortunately turned out overly salty. However, the disappointment was quickly sweetened by a delicious peanut butter and banana sundae from their famed custard menu, which certainly lived up to its reputation.
Katarina’s Mexican Restaurant and Cantina
An errand in an old neighborhood provided the perfect excuse to finally try Katarina’s Mexican Restaurant. The ambiance was lively, and the food, authentic. Erik indulged in a Katrina’s Cazuela Margarita, while I enjoyed a spicy jalapeno margarita. Our meals included birria tacos, chicken and cheese enchiladas, and my standout choice, Katrina’s Steak with a chosen mole negro. The mole sampler was a delightful introduction to the variety they offered, with Jules happily dipping chips into each type. The meal was a hit, leaving us with satisfying leftovers to enjoy later.
Fresh Doughnuts and Deli
A detour caused by the Salt Lake Marathon turned serendipitous when it led me to Fresh Doughnuts and Deli. Known for their fluffy doughnuts, the place never disappoints. I picked up a dozen assorted doughnuts, including favorites like Erik’s apple fritter and my cinnamon roll with coconut. Enjoying these with a cup of coffee is one of my cherished rituals, and the unexpected detour added a sweet start to the day.
The Rest, Whiskey Street, and Trolly Wing Company
A leadership retreat brought several work colleagues to town, prompting a visit to The Rest, a speakeasy inside the Bodega. We enjoyed a variety of dishes and drinks, with the caramelized leek dip and my Honest John Old Fashioned Flight being particularly memorable. The evening extended to Whiskey Street, where I savored a Strawberry Switchblade, a perfect blend of bitter and sweet. The next night, an impromptu gathering at Trolly Wing Company offered more opportunities to connect with friends, featuring enjoyable, albeit less memorable, drinks.
The Tin Roof Grill
Celebrating the end of a rotation with a pharmacy resident, I chose The Tin Roof Grill, featured on Diner, Drive-ins, and Dives. Despite slow service, the atmosphere was engaging. My white bean and steak pizza was delicious, even after a minor mishap that led to a complimentary cookies and cream cheesecake—an excellent consolation that made the visit even more memorable.
Mr. Charlie’s Chicken Fingers and Tea and Brown
A craving for something different brought us to Mr. Charlie’s Chicken Fingers, where we indulged in chicken and waffles, Nashville loaded fries, and a variety of chicken fingers and sauces. The meal was a hit, especially the raspberry chipotle sauce. Following up with a visit to Tea and Brown, we enjoyed various teas, although a small disappointment arose from a misunderstanding about which drinks included boba.
Prohibition
Another visit to Prohibition with work friends allowed for a relaxed evening featuring shared fries and unique drinks. My choice, the bourbon and the beast, was presented in a smoke-filled container with a rose, creating both a visual and taste sensation that perfectly capped off the evening.
April’s dining experiences, though fewer than usual due to travel, provided a wonderful blend of new flavors and familiar comforts. Each meal and gathering underscored the joy of exploring culinary delights while maintaining connections with family and friends. Whether it was a quick burger at a fast-food joint or a sophisticated cocktail in a downtown speakeasy, each outing added a little more flavor to the month.
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