Roger Phelps
Google
Stumbled across this wonderful restaurant as we were exploring downtown Norfolk. Easy to walk right past it, but that would be a mistake! Food was tremendous, delicious and value priced. A good but not overwhelming selection that features some great “go tos“ as well as a changing selection of specials.
If it’s your first time, depend on Tina to steer you right. She took the time to figure out what we liked, and gave us her personal favorite( it’s chicken Parmesan ) as well as the local’s favorite.
I had the Philly cheesesteak roll, order two of them, since I was hungry, and it was delicious. The roll itself is crispy without being greasy, and the cheesesteak filling was perfectly seasoned. I ordered the chipotle ranch dipping sauce because I like a little extra heat.
My wife had the veggie roll, which again had a wonderfully crispy roll, and freshly shredded cabbage, broccoli, and carrots, with the house seasoning. Has a little heat to it, but not so much to be bothered.
We had a side of french fries, Housemade, which were nice and crisp, nice healthy portion, and it normally comes with the house seasoning, which has a little bit of heat, but you can also get it the way we did, with just salt.
If you have the opportunity stay a while and talk to William, the owner and head chef. A great guy who is dialed into the downtown Norfolk scene, and definitely part of the whole network of locally owned restaurants that we love so much. In fact, one of the first things, he told us was a recommendation to go and head over to Jack Brown’s for a burger when we came down next time. Love these restaurants supporting each other.
William let us know how he handles his specials, he themes them after the time of year. They were just wrapping up their corned beef and cabbage, from St. Patrick’s Day, and he told us about how on Thanksgiving they had the full Thanksgiving meal in a roll, and we’re getting ready to put together a salmon roll for lunch. I have so much respect for restaurants who will keep the favorites on the menu, but keep things fresh and interesting with specials like this.
I was particularly intrigued by the dessert rolls, didn’t get one this time around, just didn’t feel like it, but when we come back, I’ll definitely be looking into the apple pie roll.
I love the space, it’s in a 100 year-old building downtown, and it had a homie feeling, with enough seating, but not crowded. I especially like the fact that William features artwork from local artists on his walls, that are available for sale if you want. I’m not a huge fan of hip-hop music, so it’s the only reason I gave atmosphere a four star. Nothing against it, it’s just not my favorite.
A heads up to any cruise ship passengers, or people attending conventions at one of the hotels that are less than a block away, show them your attendance badge or cruise ship badge and you get 10% off.