Do I really need to mention that Valentine’s Day is just a week away? Dammit. You forgot, didn’t you? Luckily I’m here to help.
You see, fellas, a lady wants you to already know. You need to take care of things without her asking. Treat her like you would that 40 oz. of Colt .45 double malt you go out of your way for.
Alana’s Food and Wine at 2333 N. High St. is probably your best option for an elegant, romantic dinner without going too far away.
From the inside it is hard to believe that this is the same area of town, and that’s a huge compliment. The old house theme is embraced throughout the three dining rooms, which are dimly lit and have a cozy yet artsy feel. On a weekend evening — particularly on Valentine’s Day — expect them to be crowded.
The restaurant has a large wine list that comes from its very own wine store. I tend to drink Chianti with just about every type of meal, but chances are whatever you have in mind is there. If you need a suggestion, just ask the sommelier (that’s the wine guy/gal).
The owner, Alana Shock, at one time worked alongside TV chef Emeril Lagasse at Emeril’s in New Orleans, but don’t hold that against her.
The food at Alana’s is very eclectic and a bit pricey; nevertheless, well worth it. The menu changes roughly every two weeks, sometimes every day. There are also half a dozen or so daily specials, so if you’ve been there before, chances are you will be still trying something new.
Although the service can at times be slow, let it be said that the staff is especially knowledgeable of the chef’s always changing creations, even on a busy night.
We began with the 5 Cheese Board ($10.95/ 3 Cheeses $7.95). The portions were somewhat small and if you are not big on fancy cheeses (all of which are cheddar, by the way), you may be disappointed. You could always rely on the free hors d’oeuvres brought to each table.
Several of my co-reviewers (my brother Ryan, mom and L-Jo) went with the Endive Salad ($6.50), which is served with walnuts, bleu cheese and a citrus vinaigrette. The response was an overwhelming applause.
I choose the Tortilla a la Alana soup ($4.50), a thick hearty broth with a spicy tomato flavor that was not overpowering. One shouldn’t hesitate to order this soup if it’s available.
The main courses are as diverse as their names are long. My dad, who asked to be called Ken the Duck, said of the Balsamic Marinated Delmonico Ribeye ($23), “The balsamic marinade stood out, and overall it was an above average slab of meat.” He also added the green beans were exceptional, very nice and crisp.
Ryan chose the Korean Lacquered Beef Short Ribs ($17) and said although they melted in his mouth, the ribs weren’t worth repeating because of the “soggy” jasmine rice and Asian vegetables.
The menu offers the tip that cell phones interfere with proper risotto preparation, which may have been why the risotto of the day (Triple Squealer Risotto of Chorizo, Boar Bacon and Coppa with Spinach, $17) was unavailable at 8 p.m.
It is very hard to make chicken interesting, but somehow Alana’s managed. My Roasted Corn and Sage Fed Chicken ($20) was succulent and savory, and presented with an array of delicious sides including Butternut Polenta and Sautéed Escarole with Prosciutto.
L-Jo had the Grilled Yellow Fin Tuna ($25). She felt that the fish was better ordered medium rather than medium-rare as was suggested. The grilled asparagus was good and there was plenty of it, she said.
My mom (L-Ro) tried the Sherry Glazed Roasted Pork Loin ($20) which she said was very tender and cooked nicely. “And I’m not a mushroom lover,” she said, “but these shiitakes were good.”
Vegan entrées are also available, as are desserts.
Every restaurant in town is sure to be filled next Friday, so I would make reservations right now. What are you doing just sitting there? Go. Call Alana’s.
Please guys, treat your lady right — take her someplace nice.
Nicholas Gill is a senior in English and journalism and can be reached for comment at [email protected].
