HAPPY MOUTH — April 2007

This evening, the members of the Happy Mouth Supper Club met at Jay’s selection — the Brown Dog Cafe in Blue Ash (a suburb of Cincinnati). I’d previously worked at an event with Chef Shawn McCoy but had not had the chance to eat at the restaurant.

Boy, am I glad we finally did! Our group — Ted, Tracy, Wendy, Holly, Angel, Debbie, Jay, and me — sat at a large table at the rear of the restaurant and enjoyed many dishes from the menu, starting with appetizers including Tic Tac Tuna; Crab and Lobster Roll; Open Faced Goat Cheese Sandwiches; and Maza (“tiny bites” of food), and a special tuna amuse bouche that Chef sent out for us.

Everything was exceptionally well-prepared and presented beautifully. Entrees were also wonderful, from the Duck, Duck — pan-seared duck breast with duck leg confit, a wild mushroom beggar’s purse, and some fresh vegetables; Duck, Here Comes Your Venison — pan-roasted venison loin with johnny cakes; to Bass in Harm’s Way — fresh Chilean sea bass with jerk seasonings over sweet potato acorn squash mash. Everything was top notch, appropriately seasoned, and served cooked to the proper temperature.

Desserts did not disappoint… I enjoyed my Apple Tart, Wendy loved her Alaskan Latte, and everyone else seemed to love their desserts too.

Service was friendly and knowledgable without being obtrusive. Ambiance was nice — it’s cozy enough for a romantic dinner, and large enough that our party did not overwhelm. I was particularly impressed that Chef Shawn visited each-and-every table during service. They have a nice wine list including several wines by the glass.

I am happy to see a local restaurant doing such great food. Kudos to the Brown Dog Cafe!