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May 4, 2005
Lunch Review: Andrea's Restaurant
After the debacle we experienced last Wednesday at Carmine's, Steve and I went over to Andrea's for lunch. We knew that Chef has a number of banquet rooms there, and neither of us had been there in a couple of months. What we didn't realize was that last Wednesday was "Administrative Professionals Day" (formerly known as "Secretarys Day"). Since neither of us have a secretary, this minor detail went right over our heads. The main dining room was packed, as were the two banquet rooms in the attached building. There are two smaller private rooms off to the right of the main entrance. We were seated in one of these.
The menu had all the usual dishes that Chef Andrea is known for, but he's also added an "express lunch" option. Steve ordered the catch of the day, which was grilled red snappe, and I ordered the Eggplant Parmesean.
I'm a lover of eggplant, and I rarely meet an eggplant dish I don't like, unless it's poorly cooked. Eggplant Parm is a very logical choice for an "express lunch" choice, since you can cook up a big pan of the stuff and serve it up quickly. As promised, our food came out quickly, in spite of a full dining room and two private meetings in the back. I was impressed.
My eggplant was just right--not too firm, not soggy. The cheese on top was melted but not overdone. When I put my fork to the eggplant to cut it, a whole clove of garlic was squeezed out.
Now, I can't figure out if the whole garlic was intentional. It makes sense, to toss in some whole cloves to impart flavor without overdoing the dish. If someone isn't a huge garlic fan, they can simply push the clove aside if they come across one. The garlic lover, like me, immediately sighs, praises their good fortune, and digs in.
Steve's report on the fish was favorable. Simple dishes served up in a timely manner--the hallmark of a business lunch.
The service was solid. The staff kept our iced tea glasses filled and a steady supply of crunchy Italian bread was on the table.
Overall, a good experience, even on a busy day.
Andrea's -- 19th Street and Ridgelake in Metairie.
Posted by YatPundit at May 4, 2005 8:37 AM