All right, so, here it is.
I recently moved back to my hometown of Abilene from Phoenix. Needless to say, the quality and abundance of fine dining is below par (don't get me wrong I love me some Popeyes on my drunken nights, but sometimes I want, need, something more impressive). My boyfriend took a job in Big Springs recently, and the first thing I thought was, damn... It's going to be Chinese buffets and over-cooked chicken fried steak in my immediate future.
Surprise surprise. Tonight was my first time "dining" in Big Springs. I was so, incredibly satisfied. We started with the bleu crab cakes and avocado dip. The crab cakes were actually mostly crab, which is rare in this part of the state and the jalapeño sauce was spicy, but gorgeous. Reminded my senses that food is an adventure. ;-)
The avocado dip... Oh my gatos, great combination of avocado, cheese, and...wait for it, chorizo! I love properly cooked chorizo. Gave a perfect kick, and I'm not even a huge avocado fan.
Our entrees were the chicken fried steak (not my choice, the boy said it had a lovely creamy sauce but wasn't anything special). I, however, opted for the burger. If you are anything like me, you know a burger is always a solid way to judge a menu. If you can cook a hamburger properly, your staff know what's up. Too often line cooks over look a simple burger. But having worked in a kitchen, it really does say, "hey what's up? I know how tell If you're medium rare or medium". To die for. I decided to add bacon, because, well, bacon would be my mistress if I swung that way. ;-). Delicious. There was a decadent portion of sautéed onions that were spiced to a sweet perfection.
If I had to deal out any constructive criticism, it would be the wait staff. We waited a bit for our beers, and then again on our second round. But from what I understand, they walk all of their alcoholic beverages clear across the hotel lobby for their patrons. So as much as it was a waiting game, i cant hold it against them. i am, after all a bit of a lush. Other than that, there was a server who clumsily knocked over a standing wine chiller. But, to be honest, it was cute, she laughed it off with a sweet smile and proceeded to ask if everyone was enjoying their experience. :-)
We will definitely go back when I come back in for a night.
We may opt for the bar the next time, however. No wait to get your booze on and they offer an extensive appetizer menu, including the now, infamous Settles Burger.
Good eatin', my friends!
Stay true, eat well!
M Lou read more