Big Friday Night at Mason Jar Cafe

When Jim buys, it's a big day. And there's a Surprise Ending to this story.

We went to The Mason Jar Cafe for Dinner. I've been there twice before, and we've all enjoyed it. Jim was open to suggestion and I was driving, so it was pretty much a done deal.

We both chose the Manhattan Clam Chowder to start. It was a daily special. Jim had the cup; I went for the bowl.

It was really good. And spicy. And good. Jim regretted not getting a bowl. I laughed.

Next, I ordered the Fried Green Tomatoes.

I may or may not have had these before, and I don't know what I was expecting, but the plate contained slices of Fried Green Tomatoes. Green Tomatoes. Sliced. Fried.

They were topped with some Crab Meat, which always helps. And I'm sure that these were damn good Fried Green Tomatoes. And I ate them all. But I'm not sure of the attraction here. I mean, I fully understand that everything is better when it is breaded and fried, but still. Maybe it's a cultural thing... when I grew up, Green Tomatoes sat in a bowl next to the Pickles and Sauerkraut in a Jewish Deli.

Anyway, I ate them, they're gone. I won't get them again. There are plenty of other appetizers here to enjoy.

For my main dish, I ordered the Short Ribs with Mashed Sweet Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts. Jim stayed with the specials and ordered the Macadamia-Crusted Halibut, with Carrots and Brussel Sprouts.

Jim ate everything on his plate. He's a good eater. My ribs were delicious. The sauce tasted like a standard brown mushroom sauce, which kept the focus on the meat. I downed all of the vegetables, too. Who knew that Brussel Sprouts were delicious? Not me, until I went to this joint.

And now for the Surprise Ending... Here is the rarest of all photos in the Blog:

Yes, folks. It's true. I did not finish my dinner. I left over a Short Rib. And, for some absurd reason, I was feeling very diet-y and declined to take it home with me. I'm regretting that decision now, but it seemed like the right thing to do at the time.