Sammy's Could be the Death of Me

But I will certainly die happy! Met more friends there this evening. Turns out they were interested in checking it out and invited us to come with - score! I ate entirely too much. If we're going to continue this sort of stuff I need to stop treating every meal like it could be my last.

The calamari was sublime - not even a hit of greasy or rubbery. . .C and I sampled the capellini alla ella and a dish I can only refer to as "something, something ricey" - but no rice. It's this awesome Gorgonzola tortellini in a cream sauce with peas and mushrooms.

http://www.sammystrattoria.com/

Tomorrow I'll be wearing my "fat" pants and eating rice cakes. It's soooo worth it.

Our company this evening was fantastic and hopefully we'll have another opportunity to catch up again soon.

Speaking of good food and good company, C and I have an exciting weekend adventure planned with the 'rents (C's parents). . .Headed to Chesapeake Beach for about three days (with the dogs too).

C has been doing a little research attempting to stake out sites and attractions that will appeal to the group. One of his colleagues at work must have mentioned that he frequents that part of Maryland.

C: "Have you ever been to St. Mary's City?" (That's basically this primitive living history display about the first colony in MD.)

Colleague: "No. We like to enjoy our vacations."

WTF?! What am I in for?!

I'd like to go put my little easel and art niche to work but I feel too full to assume a fully upright position at the moment!

Sammy's Does it Again (and Again)!

Had dinner with a dear friend this evening and C at Sammy's Trattoria (Charles and Biddle Streets). Every blessed time I'm there, the service is great, the food is great. . .It's the big Italian Family you always dreamed of sans the Soprano-like drama.

Here's how cool this place is:

I ask for the house white at the bar. They offer me a sample. While I'm sipping, Sammy walks by and says, "Would you like to try something a little different?"

d: "Sure."

Sammy is smart about his food and drinks, easy on the eyes, and seems to have this amazing kid-at-heart demeanor. I dare anyone to distrust Sammy. It's impossible. Some people are blazing, brilliant, 100% genuine - I suspect he keeps company in that crowd.

Sammy: "We have this pinot/chardonnay blend that is amazing. I fell in love with it. I haven't been able to keep it in stock all summer."

d: (How can you turn down that kind of endorsement?!) "I'd love to try it."

Handsome and knowledgeable bartender (unfortunately I did not learn his name or else I'd share it) has a glass at the ready (plus an adorable smile).

This is EXACTLY the wine I wanted this evening. I didn't want a big old hearty red. I like them in the winter.

It's still a little muggy here this evening and I like a refreshing, crisp, fruity but not too sweet and not to dry white. . .The blend was perfect.

I never asked the name. They never told. . .Despite my obvious endorsements (i.e., copious drinks). . .Maybe it's their secret?

Try it AND the lobster and crab ravioli before it's off the specials menu!!!!

http://www.sammystrattoria.com/

Raining in Baltimore this evening. . .but warm.