Dan Ryan's
My closest friends picked this place for my birthday bash with good reason; the dim lighting and cosy booth seats render this grill and bar an intimate hangout place, perfect for a chill and chat. Prices are a bit steep though, with a party of 4 racking up a $157.10 bill.
The generous Bread Basket was a clear indicator of the American-sized portions to come. The wonderfully mealy corn muffins were excellent with airy whipped butter while the amazing walnut muffin was rich, moist and full of nutty flavour. The soft, crusty hunk of bread was a little dry though.
The Combo Platter ($16) was a most substantial starter and would have been excellent to nibble at with a frosty beer in hand. The herby chicken was crisp and moist while the caramelised onions had a generous sugary sweetness. Fritters of tasty cheese and crispy potato wedges were excellent with garlicky aioli, smoky barbecue sauce or rich sour cream.
My order of Creamed Spinach ($5.50) drew a couple of raised eyebrows which gave way to appreciative sighs at its smooth, soft richness with a peculiar sweetish note. Do forgive the blurred picture, I still struggle with photos in low light as I hate using flash.
The Sweet Potato Fries ($5.50) were too unusual not to pass up and turned out to be a refreshing change from the typical potato. Delicately sweet and lightly crispy, the small bowl was finished while the fries were still piping hot.
The Crab Cakes ($21) had an herby, spicy depth that was enhanced by a Cayhenne-laced tartare dip. However, the pilaf rice it was served alongside seemed out of place.
Full-Slab Barbecued Ribs ($40) are a must have at such an establishment and the sizable slab did not disappoint. The sweet, tangy, caramelly glaze was delightful not just with the tender meat but also mopped up with lovely crisp Southern-style fries. The lightly-dressed coleslaw was as guiltless as the stuff comes too.
The Roast Chicken ($23) had a side of fluffy, garlicky mash to soak up the lovely chicken drippings once you're done with the tender Rosemary-infused bird.
The Key Lime Pie ($8.50) was a delightfully balanced creature with a buttery shortcrust complementing the citrusy-perfumed filling's tang.
The intriguing moniker of World's Smallest Sundae ($4.50) belied a less than interesting construct that was more whipped cream than frozen confection.
On the other hand, the Carrot Cake ($9.50) caused much oohing and aahing as the towering 4-layered cake had a heady sweet-spice flavour and a lovely creamy yet light icing. A little more desiccated coconut would have done alot for the cake's texture though.
No comments:
Post a Comment