Restaurant Review: FLAME Grill--Bar, Carbondale, Il.

My husband and I were looking for a  place to enjoy a nice dinner in celebration of our 36th wedding anniversary. We live in southern Illinois which has many places to choose from, but we tend to go to the same places every year and chose instead to try a place we had yet to visit.

I put out a request for suggestions from locals on my EVERYTHING IN MODERATION facebook page as well as my husband's personal page, and we found many great reviews/suggestions on many places we have yet to try.

So, I decided to begin reviewing some new places as well as places we already love.

I'm starting with our dining experience at Flame.

Flame Grill-Bar  located  at 501 E. Walnut St. in Carbondale, Il., opened in 2012 and has quickly become one of the most popular fine dining places in our area. It is easy to find and there is plenty of parking.

*Photo from Trip Advisor


Upon entrance, we were greeted by our server who led us to a comfortable booth in an artsy, eclectic, yet classy dining room. Dim lighting and light music playing in the background created the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner.

The dining area was very clean, and patrons were dressed nicely, but casually.

*Photo from Trip Advisor

Our server wasn't the friendliest- not very engaging- but was efficient. I do try to keep in mind that servers are individuals with unique personalities and also I have no idea what they are going through personally at the time we chose to come and dine, so with that in mind, our service was fine. She promptly took our orders and returned routinely for refills and to meet any other needs we had.

We did not have to wait long for any courses of our meal.

Our appetizer choice was the Classic Bruschetta and it was just delicious! The presentation was beautiful and unique. The price was $7.99 and there was plenty for both of us to enjoy.

*Photo from Trip Advisor

The perfect blend of flavors-- tomatoes, gorgonzola cheese crumbles, garlic, and balsamic vinegar to spoon onto the warm, crusty bread.

The entrees we chose were both steaks, but prepared differently. I  ordered the 12 oz. Grand Steer Top Sirloin.

 It was perfectly grilled with a crunchy outer sear while remaining tender and juicy inside--medium rare, just the way I  like it. I enjoyed the salty, but delicious seasoning and a generous serving size. My entree came with choice of potato and choice of salad or soup. I chose a Caesar Salad which was very good. Homemade croutons were a nice addition. The dressing was tasty and bold, so little was needed. I chose mashed potatoes as my side and was surprisingly disappointed. I LOVE mashed potatoes and just assumed they would also be great. I only ate a few bites of them. Something was off. Something more butter or salt couldn't remedy. My husband felt the same about his. I would recommend ordering the baked potato instead. My entree was $20.99 which included my steak, potatoes, and salad. It would have also included bread/butter (which I hear is delicious) but you must ask for it on the side-- no extra charge.

My husband ordered the Sirloin and Shrimp Asiago Steak. It was a 12 oz. grilled steak topped with grilled shrimp covered in a creamy Asiago cream sauce with grated Parmesan. He did not care for it. But I think it is just a taste preference, and no reflection on the chef. He took a chance on an unfamiliar combination of Asiago and seafood, and it so happened he didn't like that combo. He felt the cheese overpowered the dish. But again, just his preference, someone else may love that combination. His entree was $27.99 and also included a salad and potatoes. Bread would have also been included.

We were both too full for dessert and drank water and tea, so I can't review desserts or drink choices.

We visited on a Tuesday evening and it was busy enough for a weeknight. Reservations are not required, but I would suggest making them on a weekend or with larger parties. There is ample seating, however, always best to be prepared.

Dress was casual. You could come dressed up or casually dressed and would fit in nicely. This is a nice place to dine for a special occasion. Hours of operation are 11am-9pm Monday-Thursday. Friday and Saturday hours are 11am-10 pm. Closed on Sundays.

I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

Atmosphere and bruschetta are worth a re-visit. Great steak. Good menu selections. Also different specials throughout the week.

Check out their website, or find them on facebook here.

Enjoy! ~Everything in Moderation.

"A Lil Taste Of Cuba"

Who knew you could reach Cuba by Harley, in under 30 minutes from Southern Illinois?
Well, Big AL and I did today!

Today is my husband's birthday, and I told him I'd take him out for a nice lunch or supper and he recommended a new small Cuban Diner in Marion, Illinois. I had never eaten Cuban food, and quite honestly didn't even know much about this cuisine, so before we left, I googled "Cuban Food" so I would know what I was getting myself into. Basically, Wikipedia stated that it is a blend of Spanish (NOT Mexican), African and Mediterranean food and the only recipes that sounded familiar to me were plantains and black beans and rice. I also know Ricky Ricardo was Cuban, and Cuba is South of Florida...besides the name of their leader, Castro, I was pretty much in the dark when it comes to my knowledge of anything Cuban.

We braved the chilly temps and my cousin and her husband joined us as we traveled around 20 minutes from our home and pulled up to the tiny establishment. Upon first inspection, I wasn't immediately impressed, however, after noticing the long line and many cars in the parking lot ,I felt was a good sign and we just may have been in for a treat.

When we entered, we discovered there was only seating for 8 people (4 tables for two) as it mainly a carry-out establishment with the added bonus of a few seats.

Next I noticed the cleanliness-EXTREMELY clean , both the dining area, and the kitchen (that could be could viewed from the counter).

We were given a menu filled with dishes I've never tried before but sounded delicious! The smart owners, realizing that Southern Illinoisans are not familiar with Cuban Cuisine) gave detailed descriptions of each dish in the menu and there were photos of each item on the wall to aid in the decision-making process.

I chose THE CUBAN sandwich:



"Slow roasted, mojo marinated pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard, pressed on Cuban bread" ($7.99 for a HUGE sandwich!) and Yuca fries (pronounced yoo-ca) which tasted somewhat like seasoned fries, but not as spicy.($1.99)

Big Al chose the PORK COMBO:


Slow roasted mojo marinated pork (shredded) served with black beans rice and sweet fried plantains. ($7.99)

My cousins enjoyed the same, but Angie ordered a CAFE' CON LECHE (sweet Cuban coffee with milk) that she loved. Her husband Phil said it was the best coffee he had ever tasted!

There were three Cuban sandwiches to choose from, 2 different rice entrees, 4 combos, empanadas , many interesting side dishes , soups and delicious beverages (including non-alcoholic Pina Coladas, Daquiris and Mojitos). Daily specials for those watching their wallets closely, and nothing on the regular menu tops $7.99.

To see more of their menu, click on their website www.alilltasteofcuba.com

Our food was fabulous! Familiar tastes, but perfectly blended flavors. Nothing really spicy or overpowering. Very friendly and quick service and the owners are happy to answer any questions you may have about this interesting cuisine.

They offer catering services for small events.
Hours of operation are: Mon-Thurs. 9-7, Fri.-Sat. 9-4
Closed on Sundays.

Located across from Papa Murphy's in Marion , Illinois, 607 N. Court St. (Rt. 37)
Call ahead, Walk-in-carry out- or dine in if seats are available.

If you are near Southern Illinois, it is SO worth the drive! (Or bike ride).

Enjoy a Lil slice of Cuba and tell em Sherri sent ya!

Take a Break and enjoy....Anjo's Pizza

I realize that this is a recipe/cooking blog, but many of you surely are like me and some days even the best chefs need to take a break from their beloved kitchen duties, and enjoy the creations of another set of hands.

Enter Pizza.

I will say that I am not a big fan of store bought or restaurant pizza (around here anyway)- not until recently.

My son is a photographer, and went to photograph the food at Anjo's for the owners, John and Angie Furlow . He asked me to come along for the ride. (i.e. help him unload and load his junk).

The Furlows made some delicious creations for the photos, then offered it to us to taste, and take home.

I WAS BLOWN AWAY!

This food was absolutely the best I've eaten here in SO. Illinois! It all tasted like it came from the home kitchen of a wonderful Italian cook!



Not surprising when John told me of the many fresh ingredients used in creating the dishes. And they use the best cheeses (I'm a cheese snob- except for the occasional Velveeta splurge-and I know good cheeses when I eat them!).

They prepared their pizza with everything for us- and hands down- it is the best I've enjoyed here in these parts! Perfect blend of fresh veges and meat- and the wonderful sauce and crust...I could go on and on.







Another wonderful dish was their Italian beef. Now, you all know I had an Italian beef recipe win first prize in a recipe contest years ago, so I'm rather picky about Italian Beef. I've tasted good ones, but never one to rival my recipe. Until now. Their sandwich is just like one made in a home kitchen and they've mastered the perfect blend of spices! I was shocked. It was better than the sandwiches I've ordered in full-fledged Italian restaurants!

Lastly, we enjoyed their wonderful breadsticks. Mmmmmmmmm....warm, and cheesy and perfect crust. They told me they also make Italian Beef Breadsticks, by topping the sticks with their famous beef and baking them. I didn't get to try them, but that will be on my next trip.





Speaking of which, in you are in or near the Sesser , Illinois area, YOU MUST visit this place. This is not an eat-in restaurant (well, they do have one table for four), and in nice weather there are several picnic tables outside- but it is mainly a pickup or delivery service, so you will have to go to:

804 E. Franklin in Sesser (it's right on the main drive as you enter Sesser from the highway 37) or call for delivery at: 618- 625-2656.

They cater parties in several area towns too! So if you have something special coming up, give them a call. They are open in the evenings, starting at 4 pm.

*Special note: VERY CLEAN kitchen. I saw it all and they are spotless!

For those of you who are too far away to enjoy this, sorry for the temptation.

For those of you who are near enough to take advantage of this wonderful piece of Italy...go there now! And tell 'em Sherri sent ya'!



I was not paid for this review. I enjoyed my food for free, but my opinions were purely from my heart and belly. If I didn't like the food, you wouldn't be reading a review on Anjo's Pizza.



All photos used by permission and created by Jordan Murphy, Squared Vision Photography in West Frankfort.

Steak Night at Martin's Restaurant

Friday night Big Al and I ventured out on the Harley to a nearby restaurant, Martin's restaurant and Catering.

Martin's has been around for years, and is a family style restaurant complete with a friendly, home style atmosphere.
It is located on East Main in Benton, Illinois.

For those of you that aren't familiar with Benton, it is a small town in SO. Illinois that just so happens to be the hometown of actor JOHN MALKOVICH.

Martin's is open for breakfast and lunch daily, but on Friday Nights, the hours are extended as they serve delicious home style meals of Fried Chicken and Fried fish.

We came for their signature steak.

We were served a large, juicy steak, that had been marinading in a Delicious blend of flavors and cooked to perfection (medium well) just like I like it. NO sauce was needed!


It was accompanied by a baked potato and a house salad and a dinner roll for.....get this....
only $12.99!!!


We were served a special little cheese spread with buttery crackers while we were waiting on our steaks (no extra charge) and it was very simple but delicious.

We also enjoyed some mighty fine Raspberry tea!

Had we not eaten so much of the cheese and crackers before our meal, we would have ordered a slice of chocolate pie, or coconut, but we.were.stuffed.

We thought about taking a couple of slices home for a midnight snack, but...we were on a Harley...pie doesn't travel well on a bike.

We'll go back though, as this special is served every Friday night 4:00 - 7:00 pm.

Martin's is also known for their catering service. Catering wedding receptions, reunions, parties, church socials, you name it.

If you're anywhere near So. Illinois, this is definitely worth the trip. If you choose to stop by, tell 'em Sherri sent ya'!And have a slice a pie on me!


My compliments to the chef!


Bob Martin, Chef and Owner with one satisfied customer!



*I know what you're all thinking...why would I post a picture of myself that looks that bad?

It was a tough decision. For the record, I WAS SICK, on drugs (prescription) and had Harley hair. But Bob looks good so I decided to throw my normal vanity aside and feature the photo anyway. As soon as we came home, I went to bed.