A three-panel image showing a Cobb salad, a steak, and a martini with a cherry garnish.

This and That Starting 2020 off right

By Jim Ayres

“Low-Carb and Loving It!†I think that was the name of the Food Network show that aired about 15 years ago. Well, I’m resurrecting it in 2020! Not on TV, but as part of my lifestyle (I mean “dietâ€). So, this year Foodie Diaries will try to spotlight tasty lower-carb dishes as part of restaurant visits. I’m looking forward to the adventure!

Steak vs. Steak. In that spirit, let’s talk about steak. Late last year I visited Georgia James and had a spectacular ribeye. But Georgia James is a modern update on the steakhouse concept. By contrast, Morton’s, The Steakhouse (1001 McKinney) where I rang in 2020 is as traditional as it gets. Ritzy décor, mob boss booths, you get the picture. I ordered the server’s recommended Cajun Ribeye, medium-rare. Broiled, as at most old-world steakhouses, this 16-ounce slab of meat arrived a lifeless bloody rare. Its flavor was wonderful, and all the side dishes were as well.* But compared to the pan-seared steak at Georgia James, Morton’s ribeye won’t stay in my memory for long.

There’s always soup and salad. What a classic combo, especially in cool January when people are still trying to stick to their resolutions. Dish Society (multiple locations) delivered me a richly flavored, still-hot Tomato Basil Soup that seemed tons lighter than La Madeleine’s gold standard. Its Cobb Salad, too, is a delight with turkey, avocado, bleu cheese, roasted corn, bacon, tomato, and bacon vinaigrette.

I’m so excited! I loved Tarka (soon at 3701 S. Shepherd) when I visited its Heights location last September. So, imagine my joy when I learned Tarka’s second Houston location would open just a few blocks from my home. I can’t wait to get back to those delicious curries and kabobs. True, I’ll have to limit myself to a bite of their cumin basmati rice, but beauty knows no pain.

A little sad, too. Thumbs down for a recent Rice Box (1111 S. Shepherd) delivery. Not for its fresh preparation, and not for it getting cold (just the opposite). But Salt & Pepper Cauliflower bites lacked the flavor of those two basic elements, and Kung Pao Chicken had little flavor at all. However, the Egg Rolls were amazing, and the sugary sauce was so good I finished it with a spoon. Figures. Just remember, wherever you go, stir-fried meats and veggies are a carb counter’s dream. Just go light on the rice and sweet sauces. (Hey, I’m not going full-on Keto!)

The thing I love about Guava Lamp… You know I love creative cocktail menus and I’m so glad that Guava Lamp (570 Waugh) actually has one. I love Appletinis almost as much as a good wedge salad, and a special shout-out to happy hour bartender Tim Newton for making them so well.

*Speaking of wedge salads… Whatever I said above about the steak at Morton’s, their Wedge Salad is the best one I’ve ever had in my life. Bar none. Happy New Year!

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