Pre-dinner Options While Discussing Palin

Posted by lushlife

Posted: September 12, 2008 - 10:43 am

It's tough to divert one's attention from arguably the most appetizing subject for most Alaskans these days -- governor-slash-vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin. Yet in the noble quest for notable edibles, I must persevere. So I've set out to discover new starters for nightlifers, and I have two locations to highlight this week.

I may have yet to find the perfect pre-dinner treat, but I may have found the culmination of calamari at Cafe Croissant. The cafe, formerly Crazy Croissant and newly ensconced in a fancy building just off Benson Boulevard on Spenard, doesn't run daily specials but does have an impressive appetizer menu for early-evening enjoyment. The starters run from $9 to $15 and include savory selections such as escargot with French brie, king crab cocktail (to die for) and more. But the calamari -- with a soft, golden crust and a curry-flavored aioli sauce -- is worth the trip. It's worth several, in fact. Plus, wines run an affordable $5 to $9 a glass and beers cost $4 to $5.

The bread served in the evenings is worth its own paragraph. Not only is it served piping hot; it's a buttery, flaky croissant filled with -- get this -- herbed cream cheese. Let's just say you'll be glad the servers give you only one at a time. I don't think I would ever leave if there were an unlimited supply.

The cafe is also one of those places that isn't like everywhere else: It's a true Spenard gem. The interior is quaint and neat, with industrial piping and lighting, flower-patterned salt and pepper shakers and impeccable tablecloths. My sister dubbed it "Spanish modern." It's a chic, well-lit and comfortable place reminiscent of your Aunt Faith's formal living room, except you can eat and drink without batting an eye.

I know that the stylish south-side haunt Suite 100 isn't a new venue, but it's worth a new mention if you're looking for somewhere to start the weekend.

Each week, head to the bar at the back of the restaurant for a sweet, sip-happy session. Proprietor Kelly Nichols says "Thirsty Thursdays" include free samples of wines on the menu for patrons to swirl and savor to better make a selection. And though the venue doesn't have appetizer specials, its menu is always sweetly priced, with starters ranging from $8 to $13, wines and drafts from $4.50 to $10.95 and cocktails $7.95 and $8.95.

Either way, you're sure to find an after-work or early-evening place to soothe your penchant for petite snacks. Or at least something to nibble while discussing Palin's hair.

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