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Two Thanksgivings The French don't celebrate Thanksgiving.  But Don and I have celebrated 2, at this landmark restaurant in Paris! 1999 It's been nearly a quarter century since we had Thanksgiving dinner with our kids, at Fouquet's  This is our only photo. Don and the kids were studying the names of famous guests on the brass sidewalk plaques. I wish I had photos from our dinner, but I was too intimidated to use a camera, in those pre-cellphone days. Eloise in Paris As a kid, my dream was to go to France. I wished on birthday candles and wishing well coins.  I wanted to be just like wild Eloise, in one of my favorite books. She was not the least bit intimidated when she and Nanny sat at one of Fouquet's patio tables. Cafe Seats in 2023 This past Thanksgiving, we had dining room reservations at 7:30. I wandered over from our hotel early and peeked at the cafe tables that faced Avenue George V. The red chairs beneath the famous red awning were empty, at 5 pm on November 23.  I spotted no children with messy hair, or bare feet. No Nannies drinking martinis. Facing Champs-Elysees However on the other side of the pie-slice-building, the awnings covered a very busy patio area.  The chilly evening air didn't seem to bother the outside guests. They seemed to happily enjoy their food and converstaion, sitting right beside the bustling Champs-Elysees. Why 5? Our reservations were for 7:30, so why was I there looking around at 5? I was on a mission to check on the dress code. I wasn't as carefree as 6 year old Eloise! I hate breaking rules.  After peeking in windows and seeing men without jackets, I knew Don was safe. (We had packed light) I paused to take in the decorated entrance. Red carpet and nutcrackers! We didn't see that, 24 years ago! Glowing! Just after I crossed the street to head back to the hotel, the lights on Champs-Elysees came on.  I looked back at the glowing building and felt giddy about the evening ahead. I ended up taking a longer route back, so I could peek at the Arc de Triumph.  I stopped snapping photos and dialed my dad back in Missouri. "Happy Thanksgiving Dad! Did you watch the parade? Guess what I'm looking at right now?" I described everything I saw, then dashed back to the hotel. Fouqet's Since 1899 When we arrived for dinner, I took a turn posing with the fabulous 124-year-old restaurant.  I have no idea about the age of the actual building. In 1899, Louis Fouquet purchased the Criterion Tavern (in this building) and opened his classy brasserie. It's odd that the restaurant is named for the French man, but pronounced with a hard "T". It does not rhyme with bouquet! The French Oscars Once again, we studied the names on the plaques. Most names were French actors I didn't recognize, but I did know of few of the celebs.  Since its opening, Fouquet's has been a gathering place for those involved in the arts. Since 1979 the restaurant has hosted the annual Cesar Awards Banquet. (French Academy Awards) Welcoming! Before we stepped inside I felt a wave of worry that we were underdressed or we would be be treated less warmly because we were Americans who spoke little French.  But the first thing I noticed was the lively holiday decor in the middle of the room. You can't have nutcrackers and candy canes and be snooty! And then the matire'd quickly put me at ease. She asked for our reservation name, then lit up as if we were a pair of celebrities ourselves. Did I imagine that? The she led us to a lovely table, on the opposite side of the tree. Interior As we moved to our table, I was delighted that the interior looked just as I remembered. The mahogany walls were still covered in portraits of famous actors.  It was tempting to get a closer look at those walls and examine the brass plates near a few tables... with names of famous guests who frequently sit at there. Table For Two We were seated in black velvet chairs facing the Christmas tree. Slightly isolated from others, but with a great angle for people watching!
Along with my menu, I was given a velvet stool, to place my purse. Achaf, Our Server We couldn't have had a more delightful server. Achaf introduced himself, then smiled, "So it has been 24 years since you have dined with us! Welcome back!"
I totally forgot that I'd written something in the "note" area, when making online reservations. We explained that we'd come on our Thanksgiving Holiday with our kids in 1999. Achaf returned quickly with 2 champagne flutes and tiny cheese tarts. Photos of Photos We seemed to be the only American voices in the dining room, but I no longer worried about being touristy. I had noticed a couple French guests taking some cellphone snaps.  Don took a photo of me, that included the framed black and white celebrities on the wall.  Achaf must have noticed, because he was suddenly at our table, offering to take our photo. 24 years ago, I didn't have the nerve to pull out a camera, much less ask for our photo to be taken. 99 Euro Feast Don and I decided to make it easy and memorable, by ordering the Prix Fixe, 3-course option. After our champagne, we both enjoyed Shrimp and Avocado Carpaccio. Huge (yet elegant!) shrimp, served with heavenly sauce. My main course was Poultry Supreme, with Morel Sauce. It came with a swirl of mashed potatoes, that reminded me of a French version of Thanksgiving. I raved to Achaf, that it was 100 times better than turkey and dressing. For dessert, Don ordered Apple Tart Tartin with Raw Double Cream! My Millefeuille Fouquet's looked like stacked graham crackers, but tasted light and fluffy. It was decorated with a signature chocolate! There was nothing Thanksgiving-ish about Don's Grilled Scallops with Jerusalem Artichoke. He praised the flavors and cheered that he didn't feel miserable, like we often do after T-Day feasts.
We took our time with our desserts and then Achaf brought one more little plate, filled with chocolates and tiny loaves of muffin bread. While we nibbled the manager came over and thanked us for coming. "We hope you enjoyed your meal as much as you did 24 years ago!" I was a bit dumbfounded by this gracious attention. Snooping Around I made sure to take a trip to the Ladies Room, so that I could explore just a bit.  I walked through a very cozy and elegant bar.  Before heading down some stairs to the restrooms, I thought about heading up the decorated stairs. But, I decided the stairs were possibly for hotel guests. Since the hotel opened in 2006, guests have been able to dine and sleep at Fouquet's. I'd say, "Next time!" except we don't have the bucks. One night in a Signature Suite, costs over 10,000 American dollars! Off We Go After we finished up, we chatted a little more with Achaf. I wanted to know if there had been any famous diners recently. He answered, "The First Lady was here not too long ago." I guess he was trying to think of a famous American.  Our friendly server asked if we would like one more photo, in front of the tree. We really didn't need another, but how could we say no? As he snapped about 10 pics, another waiter teased Achaf about his photography skills. There was lots of playful banter and we left feeling happy and satisfied. Who says the French are snooty? One More Pic It was nearly 10:30 when we stepped out. There were still plenty of diners eating outside in the chilly night air.  I had Don pose for one more photo, before we headed back to the hotel. Strolling Along Champs Elysees On a chilly weeknight, the sidewalks along the famous boulevard were finally quiet.  Quiet, until I heard a child squealing! As we strolled along, I became aware that the child's voice was coming from my purse. I grabbed my phone and looked at the faces of my daughter and 2-year-old granddaughter! I had accidentally FaceTimed, (who knows how!) in the middle of their meal.
What a perfect ending to our Thanksgiving adventure. I apologized and we all laughed. I suddenly wished so badly that I could snap my fingers and have our kids (and their families) with us at that moment. How fun to dine with them again at Fouquet's! Maybe someday!
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Since 1939 I was thrilled when our son and daughter-in-law told us they'd made reservations at Frank Fat's! (That is NOT Fat Franks!)  Days before we arrived in Sacramento, I happened to read an article about the iconic restaurant, opened by Chinese immigrant Frank Fat, 85 years ago. Near the Capitol The article talked about the restaurant's reputation as a place where influential politicians come to drink, dine and negotiate. That was back in looser days, before lobbying reform.  We parked 2 blocks away, near the capitol. I couldn't help but wonder, since it was a Friday night. Maybe we'd spot some martini drinking politicians! Exterior I was hoping we'd see a neon sign with words like Chop Suey and Cocktails. I'd seen a photo with an image of Frank and the sign. It put a big spotlight on the address, 806 L Street.
There was no glowing sign when we arrived, but a plaque showed the same address. Besides black awning, the main focus was an enormous circular window. Beneath that, we entered through a set of doors, with a bit of a retro nightclub vibe. Lounge Once inside we were greeted at the desk by a hostess wearing a silk flowered robe, For a moment, I thought "Time Warp!" But then I saw how casually she wore the robe over other clothes. A blend of the old and new world, I guess.  The young woman in silk had us follow her to our table and I could see the interior was flashy and modern. I expected an old school dining room, but we were suddenly in a noisy Friday night lounge with lime green stools and hoodie sweatshirts. Laughing Buddha As we moved through the room, I looked up and saw a golden smiling face, inside circular alcove.  I learned from our very educational menu, that the smiling head (from a Temple in China) was covered in 24-carat gold leaf. It was originally part of a full figure, carved from wood.  As we passed through the lounge, I looked back and was a bit disappointed we weren't in this hopping and decorated space. I could see the round window, that we'd seen from the street. I wasn't sure what the artwork was above the bar, until I read my menu.  The silk tapestry (woven with gold threads) was used in the Shanghai Opera, in the 1920s. Dining Room We reached the next room and I thought, okay this must be the room everyone asks for! There was a lot going on in that fancy ceiling!  The walls also had some noteworthy treasures. Once again, I learned a little something from the menu's write-up. The Chinese screen in this room, was made up of 9 panels, showing 9 "immortals".  I couldn't see those immortals too well, because they were below the dragons. But they were each bringing a birthday gift to the Goddess of Heaven. She only gets 1 birthday every 1,000 years, so... no pressure to bring the proper present! Across from the dragon screen, there was a display showing the armor worn by an Imperial Palace Guard, in the 1840's.  "It is a gold brocade embroidered in colors and edged with black velvet and gilt rivet heads." I can see why it's kept behind glass. Eating in the Back Room We continued to follow our hostess into the back room. I was disappointed for a moment. Sometimes the room furthest away is not where you want to be.  The area was quieter, with private booths. We can't watch the action! I thought for a split second. Then as we slid into our spacious horseshoe booth, I realized this was the best. I'm sure some important negotiations (and proposals) have taken place in these booths. Golden Menu Our waiter greeted us, wearing a black shirt and yellow tie. He politely handed over 4 shimmering menus.  We didn't order martinis, but we did go for a little retro fun, with a shared Mai Tai, served in a fishbowl.
The 4 of us didn't fight over the 3 cherries. We all ended up with a cherry, when we eventually ordered another.  There was no classy way to share this monster Mai Tai. Chali and Scott gave it a try first.  It was too challenging to attempt a selfie with the 4 of us, plus our drink.  So we took 2 photos across the table! Combination Platter While we were in the sharing mood, we ordered an appetizer platter that pleased us all!  Spring Rolls, Salt & Pepper Chicken, Pot Stickers and Yu Kwok. A good start! Chinese American Cuisine Since 1939, Frank Fat's has offered traditional Chinese American dishes, like old school Chow Mein and good ole American grilled steak and banana cream pie.  We went for one of the most popular dishes, Honey Walnut Prawns. The prawns were lightly fried with honey sauce, walnuts and sesame seeds. Mouthwatering sweetness made us crave an order Garlic Green Beans! Both wonderful!  General Tso's Chicken was served with a tangy sweet glaze, surrounded by refreshing broccoli. Another good combination of sweet and fresh! Dessert We'd heard that Frank Fat's was known for their Banana Cream Pie, since 1940. We knew we had to try it.  Then Chali noticed the Taro Ice Cream option. It was an absolute hit! The buttery taste was as soothing as the lavender color! I will be seeking this on menus forever, now! Heading Out We finished up and headed for the door with a few boxed up leftovers. I paused near the front to study a few photos on the wall. How fun to see these cheerful announcements that Frank Fat's would be serving on Easter and Christmas.  The lower notice had an image of Santa carrying a steaming order. The cost for Christmas Dinner was $2.00! The Fat Family I studied the family photo for a moment and tried to recall what I'd read before. How Frank came to the U.S. illegally, as a teenager in 1919. He chose Frank Fat as his American name and worked in laundries and orchards and restaurants for 20 years. Frank was a waiter in 1939, when a man rewarded his honesty (a longer story there) by financing Frank Fat's restaurant!  And during that 20 year period, Frank went back to China for an arranged marriage and eventually had enough money to bring his wife and family to America! Frank passed away in 1997 and left behind many "fans" as well as awards and a restaurant that is still owned by the Fat Family. Thanks Scott and Cha The sweetest part of our dinner outing was minutes before we got outside, with our bag of leftovers.  Scott had turned away Don's credit card with a smile. Scott and Chali insisted on treating ole Dad and Mom.
How can we be old enough to have kids who treat us to dinner. Sweet memory! Quick Bite in Chicago's Polish Downtown At the end of a brief Chicago visit, Don and I had a quick feast with our daughter, in the neighborhood where Don's father grew up.  We needed to drop Heidi at the airport before noon, but I insisted we squeeze in a Polish Dining Adventure on Sunday morning! On Polish Broadway Podhalanka sits on busy Division Street... called Polish Broadway by some. It faces the Polish Triangle (plaza) which is in the center of Chicago's old Polish settlement. Don's grandfather moved here at age 14 in 1900, after traveling alone from Poland to Ellis Island.  I'm a little jealous of Don and Heidi, with their connections to Poland. I made up for my lack of Polish blood, by embracing theirs. I practically demanded a visit to this iconic place while it still exists! The majority of Polish families and businesses have moved to the suburbs. Nervous Don and Heidi agreed to go along with a speedy visit and maybe sample some Polish pierogi or potato pancakes. But all 3 of us were a little anxious. But, because of time issues.  Before arriving, I'd read some angry reviews from diners who complained about the owner pressuring them to order things they didn't want. Were we up for this? I promised I'd do the talking and stay firm. At 10:15, I opened the front door and we stepped in. I didn't see an angry owner. I didn't see any customers at tables, or at the counter. Just 2 giant bags of potatoes. "Greeting" We stood for moment and then a man appeared. (We learned later that his name was Greg.) Greg was wearing a black apron, black Crocs and a serious expression. "Good Morning." he greeted in a flat tone, with a Polish accent.  He offered no other words, so I asked if we should just sit anywhere. "Second table." he answered without a gesture. Second from where? I wondered. He read my mind and pointed to a table near a white couch. Beef Tripe Stew or Pickle Soup? Greg brought over some paper menus and placed them on our plastic tablecloth. Before we had a chance to consider some bargains, like Tripe Stew for $5.80 or Pickle Soup for $5.75, Greg spoke. First he reminded us that they only accepted cash.  Then he began, "I'll tell you what we're going to do. I've got some soup and some sausage..." Then he listed off all the things he was going to have us sample. I could hardly get a word in. My turn I jumped in when I got the chance and explained with great enthusiasm, that we were on the way to the airport and had limited time, but we'd heard such great things about the food! "We just can't leave town without trying a little something... maybe some potato pancakes..."  He cut me off and told me they were out of potato pancakes. I didn't dare point out the potatoes on the stools. Not that we had time for those potatoes to be scrubbed, peeled, grated and cooked. Pierogi I firmly told Greg we would get just a couple orders of Pierogi. He looked like he was thinking, then asked what time our plane left. Does he think we're lying? I wondered.  Then Greg offered a slightly Grinch-like smile, with a suggestion. "You can take some extra orders with you. I have bags of Peirogi in the freezer!" 1980s Decor Greg finally seemed to understand that we just wanted 2 pierogi orders. The stress lifted and we all seemed happy.  He took our order back to the kitchen. We could see a woman bustling around back there. As she cooked, we admired the decor. Polish and American flags, surrounded Michelangelo's famous work. The TV right across from us was broadcasting in Polish.  There were postcards attached to the edge of the bar. Cans of soda and bottles of water rested on shelves. No booze at Podhalanka's, but evidently the building housed a tavern in the past.  An image of Pope Paul II decorated one wall, while Princes Diana decorated another. It was if we were in a time warp from the 1980s, which is when Helena Madej opened her Polish restaurant. I read much about her later. Warm Food After a while, Greg brought us a large warm plate, holding our polish dumplings, stuffed with various fillings.  Greg suddenly seemed warmer. He asked where we were from and Don told him he once had family in the neighborhood. I asked Greg which pierogi fillings he liked best. "Meat!" he answered without thinking. "I like meat!" The ice was broken. The cabbage filled pierog was my favorite. Don and Heidi liked the finely ground meat filling best. I would have like the potato and cheese more, if I'd come in more hungry. Those little goodies were incredibly hearty!
None of us felt drawn to the aged bottle of Przyprawa. I believe it was sort of a Polish soy sauce, which probably would have been a great addition. Posing with Greg The restaurant was still empty when we got ready to leave. 2 young guys came in at one point, but didn't have cash. (the ATM wasn't working)  I took advantage of the lull and asked Greg to be in a photo. He was happy to oblige. An hour earlier I never would have guessed we'd end up talking so easily with this guy. He told us he'd taken over for his Aunt Helena, who had owned the biz for about 40 years. Was she the woman I spotted in the kitchen? Off We Go We headed out and I took one more look at that little building, with its faded sign and vintage stone facade.  Since our visit I've read some interesting interviews with Helena. She must have been a brave and stubborn woman, coming from Poland and taking on this business, then refusing to move when crime crept into the area. She lived upstairs initially. Maybe she still does. How wonderful that her nephew has been able to help, especially when the pandemic hit. Neighborhood After our quick "lunch" we made a quick drive into the old Polish neighborhood, behind the restaurant. We found the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, where mass is in Polish. Don wondered if that was where he attended his grandmother's funeral as a child.
But just a block away, we found another church. St. Stanislaus Kostska was once one of the largest parishes in the nation, with 35,000 parishioners! Which one did his father go to as a child? Don wasn't sure. Appreciating Heritage We didn't have the time (or the address) to explore further and find where Don's dad once lived.
But we drove off to the airport, feeling satisfied and thoughtful, after our meal at Podhalanka. We got to at least try some pierogi and we also got to enjoy a little conversation with our Polish host, Greg.
Driving through the old neighborhood where Don's dad once played and went to church and school, was the icing on the cake. I have no Polish blood, but I married into a good family! I had a wonderful father-in-law! Soda Fountain in Rosenberg, Texas On Sunday we drove about 15 minutes, to Another Time Soda Fountain, in Rosenberg. The building did indeed remind me of another time!  The impressive corner building has housed many things in its 120 years, but a soda fountain has always been on the first floor. Since 1904 The structure was completed in 1904, when Meyer-Forster Land & Loan Co. occupied most of the space. That was the same year the waffle cone was invented at the St. Louis World's Fair.  That trivia makes me guess the old fountain only served ice cream in dishes, when it first opened. But we know the ice cream CONE eventually made its way to the Rosenberg soda fountain. More on that later! Last Visit It was 2014, when I last visited Another Time Soda Fountain. Don and I went on my 57th birthday.  It's been 10 years since I got ridiculously excited about my Birth-Year-Birthday! Since my age matched the year I was born, I figured I'd celebrate like it was 1957... at a "malt shop".  I ordered grilled cheese with bacon, fries and a milkshake! If it had really been 1957, I'm sure I would have ordered a malt. 11:15 on a Sunday We arrived for an early lunch, last Sunday. A few tables were filled with "after church families", but the stools were all vacant.  That would have been fun, but we had our 3-year-old granddaughter with us. She wouldn't have been able to reach the counter. Charlie Charlie was excited to sit anywhere. She loves a restaurant outing and she dressed for the occasion... in jewels!  On the drive to Rosenberg, I pointed out the train tracks that ran parallel to Hwy 90. "We'll see train tracks near the restaurant... and maybe we'll see a train!" So Charlie was eager when we parked between the restaurant and tracks. Silly me for getting her excited. There was no train. "Maybe later." I stupidly assured. Seated in Back Luckily Charlie was eager to go inside the big building. She didn't know she was missing out on those fun stools, when our hostess guided us to the back of the room.  I was glad to see the soda fountain hadn't changed in a decade. The pressed tin ceilings and decorated walls looked just how I remembered. Odd Table We couldn't spin on barstools, but we did have a curious feature at our table.  Each corner had an interesting cupholder. 8 holes in all! I guess this design accommodates left-handed people. But we forgot to use them! What's Up? After ordering, I was entertained watching Charlie and Pop Pop chat.  Suddenly they both looked up at something that I hadn't noticed. The little figure above us was familiar to me. My family had one in our New York apartment, in the 1960s!  A little clown on a unicycle was going back and forth on a tightrope, right above Charlie's head. We clearly had the best seats in the house, for clown viewing. Unless you're scared about a high wire mishap.  Evidently this clown has been entertaining customers at the soda fountain since 1946. The current owners inherited the clown when they started up Another Time, about 20 years ago. Ruth Our server Ruth couldn't have been nicer. She even had a bit of a 1950s vibe going on, with her hair tied up in a scarf.  As Ruth delivered a few baskets of chicken strips, she answered my soda fountain questions. I'd gotten curious after studying a nearby case, filled with vintage ice cream parlor goodies.  Ruth said there had always been a soda fountain on the first floor. "For years there was a doctor's office upstairs. Patients were given a wooden nickel that bought them an ice cream cone at the soda fountain." I loved picturing kids with their cones, (after 1904!!) at the soda fountain. But I also loved comparing my own memory! Memory Tangent! Dr. Grimmer was my family's doctor in Grinnell, Iowa in the 1960s. After our check ups, Dr. Grimmer would write us (me and my sibs) prescriptions for ice cream cones, at Cunningham Drugstore!  The Cunningham Drugs building (rebuilt after 1954 fire) doesn't look nearly as picturesque as the Rosenberg building. But, my fond ice cream memories likely match those of many Rosenberg kids, way back when! Blue Plate Special I didn't repeat the grilled cheese order on this visit. Instead I went for the Blue Plate Special. How could I pass up a retro diner feast for $10.00?  Pork steak with gravy, on top of sauerkraut! Served with potatoes, salad and roll. The meat was tender and tangy! The slightly mashed potatoes were delicious. I took half home! Ice Cream! When Ruth asked if there would be anything else, Heidi ordered a dish of ice cream for Charlie. I missed getting a picture of Charlie's expression when she shrieked with delight. I didn't get a video a second later, when she leapt from her chair and twirled around 5 times, squealing "Ice Cream! Ice Cream!" at the top of her lungs.
But I did get a million pictures, during the 19 minutes of icy vanilla bliss! The 3 adults were totally entertained. She started with giddy gusto and finished by tipping the dish and slurping up the melted cream at the bottom! Headed Out On our way out, I paused briefly to take in some of the many photos covering the walls.
I love this old building and its history. The exterior looked completely different when Frank Dedek took over the pharmacy in 1967. Amusing!
 Wheelchairs, hobby supplies and photo processing! All available at Frank's! I have no idea when this police photo was taken! I didn't have time to ask Ruth. We needed to get Heidi and Charlie to the car before rain started up. They were headed home to Austin. The Big Building I walked with Heidi and Charlie across the street. Charlie asked about the train tracks again, but there was no time to walk over for a look. It was sprinkling and skies threatened.  While Heidi got Charlie in the carseat I studied the 2-story brick building and suddenly appreciated the owners (the Butlers) who purchased and refurbished over 20 years ago. What a beautiful landmark. Bye Charlie Charlie was halfway buckled, when the clanging started. Suddenly a freight train was rumbling down the tracks, while the red lights flashed.  Charlie had a great view from her seat.  What a perfect ending to our soda-fountain-near-the-tracks-adventure! Another Time I said good-bye, then Heidi and Charlie headed off, just before the skies let loose.  I crossed over to where Don was parked and peeked up at the old building once more. The train was still thundering by. I peeked at the sign for "Rosenberg Railroad Museum" right next to where Heidi had parked.
"Another time!" I thought! "We'll come back to Rosenberg, go to the railroad museum, watch trains and come back to Another Time for ice cream... at the counter! Tucumcari Ranch Supply When Don and I travel, we're always game for odd and curious lunch stops. But we weren't just trying to please ourselves, when chose Watson's BBQ while on the road in New Mexico.  There were lots of words surrounding the cement block building, when we pulled up. "Where you get your butts rubbed and your pork pulled" Hmmm? With Family on Route 66 When we reached Tucumcari, we'd been on the road (in 2 cars) for 11 days, with our daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter. Heidi and Jamie were excited about this cross country trip to their new home in Texas. But they were tired of making decisions.
They asked Don and me to plan the route and stops. Heidi said, "We want to travel like you guys. Take us where you'd go." So we took them to Tucumcari, on old Route 66. We turned off the Mother Road and found Watson's, a block away. All Good I'm not usually intimidated by signs with jumbled letters and questionable humor. But we were all weary travelers and we had a 2-year-old with us.  Don and I arrived first, so I ran inside to check the place out. I headed in, then popped out the side door (where a kitty cat greeted) and raced to the parking with my announcement. "Looks fun! Let's do it!" Charlie is Game Charlie wasn't at all intimidated by the appearance of the old Ranch Supply Store. She led the way to the door and paused to check out some of the cow figures.
Charlie approved. She would have been even more enthused, if she could have read that sign for "Cowtown Donuts".  cCharlie was also not a bit threatened by the golden bear, near a few dining tables. Those teeth and claws look pretty intense, but maybe she found courage by clutching her Baby Yoda and clamping down on her Paci. So Much to See There was so much fun stuff packed into that old building! I loved the music corner. There was even a sign inviting "Me" to play and a church pew for the audience!  Of all the signs at Watson's, I liked the one on the piano best. I wasn't really tempted to play, but I appreciated the invite! There could have just as easily been a sign saying, "Do Not Play". Since 1982 The piano wasn't for sale, but there was plenty to buy at Watson's Ranch Supply Store. It reminded me of a country general store, with everything from feed to western shirts.  It was nice to know we could stop, eat and shop at this Mom and Pop operation. Owners Johnny and Stella Watson, were busy at work when we entered. They first opened their store in 1982. The bbq (and donuts) came along later. Not For Sale There was plenty of stuff that wasn't for sale. A few displayed dolls and lots of license plates!  A trip to the restroom gave me a peek at a work space, that seemed to involve present wrapping. I think?  Some furry paws looked ready to pounce from above. BBQ in Back In the back corner of the store, we found the order window. surrounded by (once again) more signs and words!  The word WELCOME was the most noticeable of all the words. If we'd taken a seat at the cozy booth beneath the gun, we could have added names to the wall.  Actually, I doubt there was room for one more name. Food Options We studied the chalkboard for a bit.  There was also a display of food pictures, that showed even more options.  Along with BBQ pics, I spotted some donuts and some people. The crew that smokes the meat? Stella We were narrowing down food decisions, when Stella's head suddenly appeared in the window. She apologized for her brief disappearance. She'd been working the cash register in the store.
Stella asked if it was our first time, then happily gave us the lowdown. Time to Eat! The long table right in front of the window was open. We took seats and moments later, Johnny appeared with our food. Quick!  Johnny handed over our heavy plates, along with apologies. "Sorry about the heat in here. We're having some problems with our air-conditioner." We assured him we were fine. And we were. We weren't running around serving customers. Where's the Beef? What was I thinking when I snapped this food photo, with no meat in sight? You can see the big sugar cookie, slaw, macaroni salad and sauces.  Don ordered 2 meats, brisket and pulled pork. But his meat was hidden in foil, beneath his bread! Top 50 BBQ List! I don't have close up photos of the brisket or pulled port, but the mesquite smoked meat was pretty amazing.  Heidi and Jamie were especially impressed. They'd been excited about moving back to Texas, where they could once again enjoy amazing BBQ. But here we were eating mouthwatering BBQ at a Ranch store in New Mexico! Turns out Watson's BBQ is well known. It was ranked 35th (by Yelp) out of the top 50 BBQ places in the U.S.! First Brisket There were a lot of firsts for this 2-year-old on our road trip. Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, first ice cream cone even.  This was Charlie's first brisket and she approved. She especially liked the sauce. Good Folks As we ate our road trip dining feast, I absorbed some more of the nearby wall decor. I'm not sure about Bob, but I'm guessing he was a well-loved local, who possibly shared words of wisdom now and then.  I also absorbed a few nearby conversations. The Watsons may have been rushing to help with food orders and merchandise sales, but they managed to chat with customers, as if they had all the time in the world. It was clear that locals and travelers were welcomed with warmth and respect. What lovely people. Out Back After finishing up, I had to at least take a peek at the "dining yard" before we got on the road.  I was amused by all the rusty collections.  I could picture a group of Route 66 motorcycle riders, making use of the red picnic tables.  I wondered about the decorated wagon. Maybe used in an annual parade?  Cattle pens? Was that another whimsical sign, or do they sell pens for cattle? It's a ranch store after all.  I didn't peek in the outhouse to see if it was real.  I was so amused by the fun clutter that I forgot to even look to see where the meat smoking occurred! I did see some kind of grain dispenser that was not a decoration.  By the time I dashed around to the front parking lot, Charlie was ready to sit down and have another meal. She eventually said good-bye to the cows and we were off!  We headed back on the road feeling full and satisfied.
Nothing better than sharing a memorable dining adventure with family, while on the road! |
The Dining Blog
This is a blog about Dining Adventures. Sometimes, I talk about food. Below, you can read how this started. On July 4th 2011, I set a goal to try 50 culturally diverse restaurants in one year! (I knew that was possible, living in the Houston area) I spent the year pulling in friends and family to join me, on some unusual dining adventures. I met some curious people, tried some scary foods and explored places and cultures I never would have otherwise. Even though I met my goal, I learned too much to end my adventures in dining. I have continued blogging about memorable dining adventures of all kinds, near and far... and all the discoveries and funny things I've learned along the way! Locations and types of dining adventures, are listed further down. Archives
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