The Girl and The Breakfast Sandwich: A love story

I'll never forget the first time I ate a breakfast sandwich. I was 21.

Wait, what? Yeah. I know. Somehow I had managed to get through most of college without that most essential cure for a rough morning: a breakfast sammy. It wasn't that I didn't like eggs.. or was lactose intolerant.. or in some diet war with carbohydrates...I just didn't think I liked them. Now that, my friends, is a whole separate issue. How is it that we go through life judging foods without experiencing them? It makes no sense, and yet I still find myself claiming not to like foods that I've never actually eaten. It's just ridiculous. Let's move on. 

Back to the story. My gang of college girlfriends and I stumbled out of our Spring Break hotel room and into the lively streets of Key West. Dodging the catcalls of still drunk frat boys, we made our way to a small cafe, somehow resisting the sweet aroma of doughnuts next door. One-by-one, my friends sidled up to the counter and placed their identical orders of egg and cheese on a bagel. I'm still not sure if it was sheer curiosity or some perceived peer pressure, but when it came down to me, I ordered the same.  When our matching breakfasts finally arrived, I hesitantly took a bite, fully expecting it to bite me back. But somehow, I was hooked. It was so simple — a plain slice of american cheese melted on a carbohydrate of your choice, topped with an egg. What's not to love? 

Since then, my love for the breakfast sandwich has only grown stronger. These days I go one of two ways to get my fix: I'll make a simple sandwich at home, or head to Cheapside Cafe for a more decadent version. Either way, it's a perfect way to treat yourself to an indulgent breakfast on the weekends. 

Cheapside Cafe

I hate to play favorites, but Cheapside has my heart.

I often go on Sundays for lunch and, depending on my mood, I either indulge in a breakfast sandwich or order a granny smith salad. I'm always torn, but never disappointed. That salad is delightful. It's a towering mound of leafy greens tossed with crisp green apple, golden raisins, pecans and a creamy cider vinaigrette. Throw in a cup of their perfectly tangy, rich tomato soup, and you're in business. However, there are those days when a salad just won't cut it. On those days, the breakfast sandwich at Cheapside is the perfect indulgence. Just the other day I was there with some friends and they both ordered breakfast sandwiches. The inner health nut in me was about ready to order a salad, but when it was my turn at the counter I said, "I'll take the breakfast sandwich, please". Is it peer pressure? Is it a hangover? Is it just the draw of hot cheese yet again? We may never know. But here's what I do know, the breakfast sandwich at Cheapside is heavenly. It has pimento cheese (whoah), bacon, and a fried egg served between two slices of buttery, toasty, seedy multigrain bread. It is not your average "egg and cheese". 

The Cheapside Breakfast Sandwich.. just look at that egg.. 

At Home

I like to keep it simple.

It's a homemade version of what you might get at the sandwich shop down the street. I feel like most of you will have one of two reactions: "Wow, innovative (sarcastically)" — or — "That needs bacon". But hey, I said I like it simple. Here's what I do:

• Grab a carb — I'm partial to bagels — and toast it. 
• Fry an egg, flip it over and give the yolk a poke so it is semi-runny, semi-hard. 
• Slap a slice of cheese on each side of your freshly toasted carb of choice, put it (cheese-side-up) in a pan on the stove over medium heat and cover it with a lid for 30 seconds or so until it melts.
• Salt and pepper your egg before you close up the sandwich. If you have avocado — I highly recommend a few slices. 
• Sit down with your cup of coffee and smile because you get to enjoy a great breakfast sandwich — and you didn't even have to change out of your PJs. 

My breakfast sandwich. I made some sweet potato on the side because.. well.. sweet potato. 

Clean Eating

“Namaste”. I’ve just finished a calming, invigorating class at The Yoga Bar in Over-The-Rhine. I’ve got 25 minutes to kill before work, which is not enough time to run home and grab something quick. Of course, I forgot to eat on my way out this morning and the banana in my bag just isn’t going to last me for the day ahead. And while the dreamy, sweet smells of freshly baked Holtman’s doughnuts try and lure me in for a treat, I keep walking. Just a few steps further down Vine will get me to Happy Belly where I can treat myself to a breakfast sandwich that is nourishing and delicious. I find myself in this situation all too often. I have, without a doubt, the MOST obnoxious sweet tooth. If I could down a pint of Graeter’s Mocha Chip every day, I would happily do so. Now, if you’re a follower of mine on Instagram, you know that I’m not just nibbling on carrots and celery all day. Neglecting my sweet tooth all the time would just be sad. In my life, it’s all about balance. It’s about being selective with my treats. Yes, I’d love to order a chicken sandwich at The Eagle, (and sometimes I do!), but if I fill up on their seriously delicious arugula salad first, I’ll treat myself with a few bites of macaroni or grits and leave just as happy. This is what works for me. At home I fill up on minimally processed foods, fresh fruits, veggies and lots of water. When I go out to eat, I’m thoughtful about what I indulge in.

While so many of our favorite places to eat tempt us with truffle fries and macarons, there are a few brave establishments aspiring to make your healthy choices a little simpler. These are places that lean toward quality, local ingredients and cater to those who may have food allergies and/or prefer vegan or vegetarian options. Even if you don't fall into one of those categories, I encourage you to open up and try something new. C'mon now, you're not scared of a little veggie are you?

HAPPY BELLY ON VINE

Happy Belly serves up a wonderful selection of health-conscious, mostly vegetarian, “on-the-go” fare. These genuine nutrition devotees do not use refined sugar, butter or white flour. They’ve got a nice selection of salads, sandwiches, wraps and smoothies. Boasting a list of wonderful local vendors such as Shadeau Breads (right on Main St.) and Busch's (Findlay Market), this shop is dedicated to giving their customers the very best products. So, next time you’re in need of something quick, head to Happy Belly and grab a meal that both your tastebuds and body will love.

SPROUT MARKET & EATERY

"I mean there’s a lot of really good food (in Cincinnati) but a lot of times you don’t really know where it comes from” –Susan Tolentino, GM of Sprout Market & Eatery.

And isn’t that all too true? Susan is the one who first got my wheels turning about finding healthy eateries around town. Especially in Cincinnati, we are so surrounded by an abundance of farms and fresh produce, but often restaurants choose the cheaper option. Sprout’s menu changes according to what is fresh and in season. Sprout excels at transforming simple, fresh, local ingredients into something special. Read more here.

SLEEPY BEE

Yes, there is often a long waiting list, but they have a comfy waiting area and coffee bar. I promise it’s worth it. The Sleepy Bee is “local” down to the tiles on the wall. Gluten Free? No problem. They’ve got you covered. Missing sausage with your eggs ever since you went Vegetarian? No worries. They offer meat alternatives. Want a smoothie? They’ve got that too. This brunch/lunch spot will win you over with their friendly staff, exceptional food, and adorable "sleepy bee" mascot. Check out more about them here!

PARK+VINE

Park+Vine has been well established in OTR for quite some time. Tucked away amongst the bars on Main Street, this wonderful market has quite the collection of goods. Park+Vine's quaint grocery has a surplus of fine foods, earth friendly cleaning products and more. If you're looking for a specialty item that is earth friendly/vegan/all of the above, Park+Vine is the place to go. They also have an entirely vegan lunch/brunch counter that serves a grilled "cheese" my meat and cheese loving friend swears by. Yum!

MELT

Ah, Northside. What a vibrant community you are. I was introduced to this gem of a neighborhood when my brother, a musician, started playing gigs over there. I highly recommend checking it out if you haven’t been. Go see a show at Northside Tavern, check out their farmer’s market, or grab a bite at one of their many funky restaurants.  Northside is home to Melt Eclectic Cafe, another one of my picks for clean eating. Melt offers delicious baked sandwiches, wraps and salads served with clean meats and fresh produce. They’re also very accomodating to those who prefer a gluten-free or vegan plate. Check out their menu here, and I’m sure you’ll be adding Melt to your “places-to-try” list.

PICNIC AND PANTRY

Picnic and Pantry is actually the catering relative of Melt. Recently re-located at 14^th and Republic (across from Salazar and the Yoga Bar), Picnic and Pantry has both to-go food and a small market. Inside this friendly little shop you’ll find typical lunch fare alongside their pantry filled with high-quality market items. I recommend heading in for lunch and picking up something delicious to take with you. Welcome to OTR, Picnic and Pantry, nice to meet ya.

So, next time you're in the mood to go out, consider one of these amazing health-conscious spots. Support Cincinnati's clean eating establishments! Your body (and city) will thank you.

A Bit of Southern Charm: Son of A Preacher Man

The second the waiter places that cup of ham and beans in front of my nose, I feel seven again. I'm sitting at my grandmother's dining room table in Louisville, feet hanging off a cross stitched seated chair and desperately trying to prevent a spoonful from dripping onto that crisp white tablecloth. I am seven and although I've already snacked on those cheese puffs Grandma keeps in beveled crystal jars, I'll still take more than a few bites to get to dessert. My friends' voices snap me back to present day Cincinnati as I smile and say "dang, that's good".

That's just how comfort food works. It has the ability to transport you to a place of comfort almost instantly. No fuss, no complicated flavors, no crunchy things you're unsure of.. just smooth bites of joy. At Son of A Preacher Man in O'Bryonville, you just might just find some of your own favorites. Although Southern food isn't everyone's comfort food, it has such a simplicity and warmth that most folks can appreciate. From the moment guests walk into this new O'Bryonville space, they're met with classic southern charm. Sections of retro wood paneling and patterned wallpaper are offset by modern colors and lighting. The honey, hot sauce and mason jars on each table brings guests into a Southern kitchen without even crossing the Ohio.

Inside (Son of A Preacher Man)

We began with a cocktail, of course. And what else could I order when there's a drink affectionately referred to as "PB&J"? I couldn't tell you what was in it, but I'll tell you it was quite the treat for a Tuesday. 

PB&J Cocktail (Son of A Preacher man)

One friend tested out the Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf and admitted it was every bit as good as her mother's. Plus, the mashed potato on the side added that extra bit of love. While my mother never made meatloaf (much to my father's protestations), I tried a bite and I admit I now see what the fuss is about. Also, their biscuits are perfect. Buttery, flaky pillows of pure bliss. 

Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and an amazing biscuit (Son of A Preacher Man)

Along with my cup of Black Eyed Pea and Country Ham Soup, I just had to get a side of Macaroni and Cheese. Mac and cheese (or any pasta, really) is my go-to treat and Son of A Preacher Man's did not disappoint. It was simple, creamy and cheesy. It was the bowl of Mac and Cheese that other Mac and Cheeses aspire to be. 

Macaroni and Cheese (Son of A Preacher Man)

What a great little spot. Friendly folks making honest, good, home-cooked meals. They also do take-out for those of you who are "on-the-go". Personally, I recommend going in. Slow down a bit, enjoy the atmosphere, and have a good meal with people you love. Because in the end, isn't that really the joy of sitting down at the table? To sit down, slow down, reminisce and say "dang, that's good".

-EK

Senate: An OTR Original

Vine Street (today) looking South (OTR)

As a child in the '90's, Over-The-Rhine was a place in my mind that we drove through but did not stop. It was a rather rundown, crime-ridden section of town abandoned by most of the public. As we all know, OTR has been through a major overhaul in the last few years and is slowly drawing in patrons from all over the area. In recent years, the restoration of OTR's beautiful Italianate architecture and the establishment of new businesses and eateries has breathed new life into the area. This once abandoned piece of our city's history is being revived piece by piece. Its once faded facades now bloom with color as trees and lamp posts line the streets. And while the revival of this area is hotly debated, I can't help but be amazed at the phenomenal restaurant scene. So, discussions of gentrification and politics aside, let's talk about one of the highly successful eateries on Vine Street: Senate. 

As written in the book, Senate: Street and Savory (2014), the owners of Senate took quite a risk when they opened on Vine Street in 2010. With the help of 3CDC and other key players, the couple was able to open what would become one of OTR's most popular spots (Wright 162).

Senate at 12th and Vine St (Senate, OTR)

Five years after their opening, Senate is absolutely thriving. Each time I've visited, the place is absolutely packed with a diverse crowd of happy diners. Whether you're at a table or at the bar, I guarantee you'll be sharing some elbow space with your neighbor. This cozy environment works brilliantly for Senate. The inviting decor and friendly staff helps to balance an otherwise chaotic atmosphere. I'm not really a big "meat lover" so to speak, and before Senate I couldn't remember the last time I ate a hot dog. So, on my first visit I chose Mussels Charmoula. The saffron, tomato and herbs are divine. Plus, to soak up all that savory sauce you get toast that is equal parts crispy and soft.

Mussels Charmoula (Senate, OTR)

On my next visit, I finally mustered up the courage to give the hot dog a shot. I chose the Croque Madame because there is nothing I love more than béchamel. With an egg and black forest ham, it evoked the flavors of eggs benedict. Senate's hot dogs are locally sourced and specially made by Avril-Bleh & Sons Meat Market (Wright, 73). The rubbery, bland hot dogs from my childhood (my brother's birthday meal was always macaroni and hot dogs...) do not deserve to share a name with Senate's flavorful creations.

Croque Madame Hot Dog (Senate, OTR)

My dining pal got the Hello Kitty which features wasabi mayo, ponzu-wasabi slaw, and bacon. Also pictured below are the Truffle Fries. I adore anything with truffle, so these were a special treat. 

Hello Kitty Hot Dog (Senate, OTR)

Truffle Fries (Senate, OTR)

If you want to know more about Senate, go buy the book! It is filled with beautiful photographs by Anthony Tahlier and awesome recipes from the chefs. It's an essential book for all Cincinnati food lovers. It is a great resource for anyone who is curious about the history of Over-The-Rhine dining. There are still so many beautiful spaces just waiting for someone to come along and give them new life. Senate is more than just a great place to eat. It is a reminder to us all to see Cincinnati through the lens of its potential rather than its shortcomings. 

-EK

REFERENCES: Wright, Daniel. Senate: Street and Savory. City Stories, LLC: 2014. Print.

A Tavola: Honestly Good Pizza

If you're familiar with the food scene in Over-The-Rhine, I'm sure you've visited A Tavola. It is home to perfect neapolitan pizza, Italian specialties and a great bar. It's somewhere in between a really good pizza place and a contemporary Italian eatery. The modern food and decor lends it that extra boost of chic and yet the atmosphere somehow remains casual and unpretentious. I loved sitting at the bar that faces the kitchen. There's something about watching those pizzas slide in and out of the wood burning oven that is simply mesmerizing.

To get the meal started, they offer a wide variety of meatballs and meatball sliders, antipasti, salad and bruschette. I've had the fried risotto balls and the bacon tapenade bruschette. The fried risotto balls have soft fontina cheese on the inside and are served with their wonderful house tomato sauce for dipping. The bacon tapenade bruschette was wonderfully sweet and savory.

I have to say I'm a minimalist when it comes to Pizza.  Despite all the pasta and gelato I consumed during my time in Italy, the taste of a perfect Pizza Margherita is burned into my taste buds. A bit of tangy tomato sauce beneath perfectly melted buffalo mozzarella and a topping of fresh basil. (Is your mouth watering yet?). While I've tried quite a few pathetic imitations elsewhere, the Margherita at A Tavola is "the real deal".

In fact, everything at A Tavola is "the real deal". It isn't an upscale Italian place nor is it a greasy pizza joint. It is just honestly good Pizza in a comfortable, modern space. So here's to you, A Tavola, for truly setting a new standard for casual Italian dining. -EK

The Sleepy Bee: All About the "Local"

I really love breakfast food. From sweet fluffy pancakes to a scrumptious cheesy omelette, I'll try it all. However, often I find that after all is said and done, that slightly greasy pile of eggs and hash browns made me want to lie on a couch all day insead of fueling my morning. At The Sleepy Bee, things are done a bit differently. They seem to believe (as do I) that indulging in brunch doesn't have to mean abandoning your health-conscious inhibitions at the door. From the decor to the food, The Sleepy Bee is all about locally sourced goods. They are truly "green" from head to toe. With non-GMO meats and dairy, locally sourced produce and even local art, The Sleepy Bee is far more than just a "cute brunch place". The food is stellar, and the service impeccable. I'd describe the staff as "attentive with an extra dose of friendly". Offering fare for both vegans and goetta-lovers alike, there's truly something for everyone at Sleepy Bee. I'm more on the veggie-lover's side so I typically go for "The Avi" omlette featuring avocado, mushroom, spinach, onion, tomato and white cheddar. I'm one of those rare weirdos who doesn't love onions (yes, I know.. I know) but I'm sure they'd add an extra crunch. The avocado is a perfect addition as it balances out the sharpness of the white cheddar with a bit of that sweetness that comes from a perfectly ripe avocado. My favorite side item is the "roasted root vegetables". If you like sweet potatoes, I highly recommend ordering these. They have this amazing toasty, sweet flavor. The "roasted root vegetables" and the "home fries" are paired with a dipping sauce that is so perfect. I would say it's like ketchup, but that just seems wrong because it is SO much better (and better for you!) than ketchup.

My dining companion got the "Buzzy Grilled Cheese". Inside their version of grilled cheese is turkey, fontina and gruyere with a wonderful fig jam for balance.

They have sandwiches, soup and salads for those who might be more interested in lunch. Additionally, they offer smoothies and some wonderful looking baked goods.

A wonderful feature of The Sleepy Bee is that although you may have to wait to be seated, there's always somewhere to sit or stand. If I have to choose whether or not to wait for a table, my decision is often based on how comfortable I will be while I wait. Nobody likes to wait right near the drafty door or the crowded entryway, right? You can have a cup of their bottomless (and delicious) coffee in a mug with the most adorable sleepy bee on it. I mean seriously, look how sleepy he is? I just want to give him a pillow and blankie and read him a story.

There is always a mixed crowd from twenty-somethings and students to parents with small children. As I mentioned before, there is something to please even the most particular of eaters. That's why The Sleepy Bee is my go-to for a simple, honestly good brunch.

-EK

Red Feather: Fine Dining in Oakley

I know I've found a truly good restaurant when I can conjure up the delicious flavor of a dish simply by bringing it to mind. When the food is that memorable, you know you've stumbled upon something exceptional. I had heard such glowing reviews of Red Feather that I just had to see what all the fuss was about. Located in Boca's former home on Madison Road, Red Feather is an upscale dining option not to be overlooked. So often Cincinnatians turn to the swanky hotspots of downtown for an evening of fine dining. However, Red Feather in Oakley reminds us that location isn't everything. Beautifully designed with exposed brick and modern wood finishes, the space is comfortable, yet elegant. We sat at the 'Chef's Table' where we watched the chefs work their magic on the wood-burning oven and grill. Now that the cozy scene has been set, let's add some impressive eats to this picture.

First up were the amazing appetizers. Being the self-proclaimed cheese enthusiast that I am, I insisted we try the whipped ricotta. I could have eaten that fluffy honey and truffle ricotta with a spoon. Instead of a spoon (phew!) it arrived accompanied by crostini that was perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

The "Pork Belly Steamed Buns" were next. I wasn't quite sure this would be my cup of tea, but how wrong I was! These tender slices of pork belly with cucumber and pickled red onion were served atop a steamed bun with an absolutely remarkable sauce. The steamed buns had a unique, soft texture unlike anything I'd ever had. It melted in my mouth perfectly with the crunch of the onions and cucumber.

With my expectations high after those amazing starters, we entered into the main courses. The scallops featured a pumpkin mashed potato, a brussels sprout slaw with apples and a finish of a "maple bacon gastrique" that instantly threw me into one of those "mouth full, can't talk but this is so amazing" smiles. My mother went for a bowl of the french onion soup which was so flavorful. Even as someone who is not the onion's biggest fan, I agreed it was delicious.

My father opted for the pork chop which he was quite pleased with. Criminini mushrooms and pearled onions were a perfect compliment to this well-portioned cut of meat.

Red Feather is one of those places I left truly impressed with every aspect of the experience. Although it's on the higher end price-wise, it would be a wonderful place for a nice date night or a special occasion. The food and service is outstanding and yet it still has a reassuring, modest atmosphere. I highly recommend heading over to Oakley to experience this piece of Cincinnati's fine dining scene.

-EK

Annabel's: Mt. Lookout's Tiny Treasure

Surrounded by local bars, a famous burger joint and late-night sushi, Annabel's is quite the black sheep. With less than 10 tables, this tiny restaurant is quiet and comforting. The sizable windows in the front room flood the space with natural light. The decor is understated, simple and unpretentious, just the way a family-owned restaurant should be. The Eggs of the House are not to be missed. Hiding underneath two perfectly cooked eggs are delicious black beans and grilled cheesy grits. Though simple in it's ingredients, this dish is extraordinarily satisfying and unique.

This little slice of heaven was the Tart du Jour. It featured a delightful variety of cheeses, fresh basil and a stellar roasted tomato sauce on the side. I could have eaten the entire pan if given the chance.

Let me help you out a bit... If you've woken up and you need a greasy plate of eggs and grits, like RIGHT NOW, this is not the place for you. If you're in one of those "go with the flow" moods and are willing to wait in order to experience a truly unique brunch:   Annabel's should be on your agenda. I promise it will be worth the wait! Enjoy!

-EK

The Rookwood: A True Mt. Adams Gem

The Rookwood has been a Mt. Adams favorite since its opening in 2008. Somehow, I just now made my first visit to this magical eatery over the weekend and I must say it was exceptional. First off, visitors are greeted by absolutely stunning views of the city when they pull into the parking lot. And when I say "views of the city", I don't mean the typical Mt. Adams view of the P&G headquarters and a bit of downtown. I am talking full on, downtown, OTR, Music Hall, dozens of church spires, and hills for miles. It is truly spectacular and unique. You must see it for yourself! This beautiful old tudor structure originally housed the world famous Rookwood Pottery Company. It's a true piece of Cincinnati history I encourage you to check out. The inside of this beautiful old tudor features beautiful dark wood and a big kiln you can actually eat in! Very unique. But let's not forget the real reason behind my visit… the food! Our first little bite of heaven arrived with the bruschetta of the day:   crisp, flavorful bacon and delicious mild green chile pepper slices over a fluffed up bleu cheese spread atop a chewy, flaky thick crostini.

That enough to make your mouth water? Just you wait… My dining partner-in-crime, Tyler, ordered the "Croque Madame".

I'm not usually one for meat of any kind, but let me tell you...that tender pork belly was one for the books. The addition of double smoked ham and emmentaller béchamel (fancy for: a really yummy cheese) makes this sandwich not one for the faint of heart. (Sidenote: Tyler thinks there should be a warning label indicating that you will not be able to function for the rest of the day after ingesting this monster of a sandwich… I think he should have maybe just not eaten the entire thing. Just a thought.) I decided to go for one of their seriously amazing looking salads and a bowl of the tomato bisque. I chose "The 1993"  featuring creamy goat cheese, some wonderful candied almonds, raisins, and a delicious pomegranate vinaigrette. The tomato bisque was simply everything I love about a good tomato bisque: tangy and creamy with a dollop of creme fraiche for balance.

Although the lunch menu was classic soup, salad, sandwich fare, the flavors were successfully innovative and anything but boring. There was certainly nothing bland about this lunch! Everything on the menu looked amazing; I can't wait to go back and try more. This Mt. Adams gem surely gets my seal of approval.

Until next time! -EK