Monday, July 13, 2009
Derk's Filet & Vine
We non-vegetarian "locals" who can decipher the "fillet" and "vine" codename all know that Derk's is a great place to buy fine wine and steaks in Old Cloverdale (just off Decatur Street). But Derk (who I believe tutored as a butcher under the owner of the old "Penny Profit") has for quite some time offered a buffet lunch counter that contains more entree (meat) selections than any other "meat and three" in the city with a touch more creativity than the usual fried or baked chicken and mystery meat. Yes, at Derk's they will usually have a stuffed pork loin or chicken Marsala or sauteed grouper in addition to the usual suspects. And the vegetable options usually include several casseroles. Only drawback is its popularity among the locals and the lines can be long. Generally speaking, if the line is past the produce section you might try Nancy Patterson's Bistro across the street for a true, sit down, experience. Also, if you become anxious when you cannot know for sure if you are going to be able to sit down when you get your food, Derk's is not the place for you. However, I must admit, when the food is served on the tray there seems to be a place to sit--if you do not mind sitting in the charcoal and lighter fluid section. Seriously, the food is way above average. I would rate it 4 chicken Marsala's. The place is a little pricey--i.e. over 15 shares of Colonial Bank Stock--but if you do not mind eating in the aisle of the grocery department it is worth every "Penny".
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Meat is murder. Don't let the tag line "non-vegetarian" fool you. There are plenty of vege selections to fill your belly. An unrepentant meateater with a bulging waistline can feel like a champion when he proudly proclaims "I'll just have the vegetable plate." However, by the time my plate is piled with mac & cheese and fried ocra, the theory behind the vegetable plate is shot. But going with the vege plate will get you out of there for under $10.
ReplyDeleteDerk threw me a cut fastball last week. The end of the buffet usually offers up the type of question that either determines your personality or place of birth: "roll or cornbread?" (Cornbread...always cornbread). Last week as I approached the line and readied myself for the sweet, fluffy, buttery deliciousness I hear: "roll, corbread, or (Blank) cornbread?" (my ears, accustomed to the question, shutoff after the first "cornbread" so that I can more quickly receive my savory bread treat). I asked the clerk to repeat the third option. Imagine my surplight (surprise/delight) to hear that "Jalapeno" could be coupled with my favorite starch. Accordingly, I ordered the hot sweet treat and was hooked. Jalapeno flakes were sprinkled throughtout the buttery goodness to give the cornbread a subtle kick without the overbearing heat of a full jalapeno.
ReplyDelete4.5 Jalapeno Cornbreads.