Bistro News February 17, 2012

Greetings from the Bistro!

As has become my habit I write this after walking Niki and Pico. I live on a dirt road and have a filthy car to prove it. And today, a couple of muddy doggies too. It is hard to believe that it’s the middle of February and almost forty degrees before noon. I think, on this walk, about what was noteworthy over the last week. We had a great Valentine’s celebration. I love holidays. Everyone is in a celebratory mood and generally happy-go-lucky.  I particularilly love working these special days and wish that each and everyone of us would allow ourselves to declare everyday as exceptional. How much easier life would be.  Many of you may remember the older woman, Marion Simpler, who would eat dinner with us every night in our “former bistro.” Marion had a saying that she started her day with: “It’s a million dollar day.” How very smart of her – she set herself up to have a spectacular day.  Now, part of my morning routine includes repeating her mantra and a byproduct of the positive reminder brings a smile to my face as I remember sweet Marion.
 

Another woman I greatly admire is Margaret Davey, the executive director of the Western Oakland Meals on Wheels Program (MOW). She and her staff coordinate the preparation and delivery of  meals for in-need seniors. MOW was recently awarded a grant to start a new pet distribution program designed to assist homebound MOW participants with food for their pets. According to research reported in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society independently living seniors with pets have better physical and mental health. Because of economic or health reasons some seniors are unable to feed their animals. So, the Northville PetSmart, the Banfield Pet Hospital and now, officially, Diamond Jim Brady’s Bistro, are drop-off sites for pet food contributions. There will be a container inside the front lobby to place your cans or bags of food. I will make sure that they get to Margaret and she’ll get them to those in need. Help us look good – let’s get the lobby full! 

I know that I’d be lost without my pups. And, they certainly make everyday a million dollar one.

See you at the Bistro with pet chow in hand. XXOO, Mary

Bistro News and Specials Beginning 2/10/2012

GREETINGS FROM THE BISTRO

I’m just in from a brisk walk with Niki and Pico and thinking I need to  get them a valentine treat.  Maybe doggie cookies from the local puppy bakery.  Valentine’s day is one to profess your love, not only for each other, but, our beloved animal friends too. Remember them – their love for us is un-conditional.

Now for a history lesson. St. Valentine lived in Rome during the rule of Emperor Claudius.  Claudius wanted to have the largest army in the world and thought that by making marriage unlawful that he’d get many more young men to join. Fr. Valentine thought this was absurd and continued to secretly marry couples. He was ultimately caught and sentenced to death. While in jail many young people threw flowers into his cell. He was befriended by the prison guard’s daughter who spent many hours visiting with him. On the day of his death, February 14, 269AD, he wrote her a note thanking her and signed it Love Valentine. Valentine is the patron Saint of Love and thus the celebration of his day. Over a billion valentine’s day cards are sent every year.  Teachers receive the most. And, many are just signed “Love, Your Valentine” from supposed anonymous admirer’s. 

Many foods are associated with the day too.  Oysters are considered to be a natural aphrodisiac and what would Valentine’s be with out chocolate, champagne or lobster? All are featured on our board menu today through Valentine’s.  I think that we have some of the best specials since re-opening.

We can’t wait to see you at the Bistro! 

XXOO, Mary

P.S. Remember your pets!!!

Bistro Specials

Appetizer

Oyster Rockefeller ~ Plump Oysters On-The-Half Shell Topped With An Anise Flavored Creamed Spinach With Bacon. Sprinkled With Parmesan And Baked Until Bubbly.

Main Plates

Lamb Shanks “Just Like My Mom’s” ~ Slowly Braised In A Rich Veal Stock With A Mirpoix Of Carrots, Onions And Celery. Presented Over Cheesy Polenta With Root Veggies And The Cooking Jus. Finished With A Crispy Onion Hat.

Seared Jumbo Sea Scallops ~ Served Around Angel Hair Tossed With Spinach, Roasted Garlic And Tomatoes With A Touch Of Saffron Fumet.

Florida Grouper ~ Accompanied With A Southwest “EggRoll” Filled With Black Beans, Corn, Tomato And Scallion.  A Dollop Of Guacamole And Drizzle Of Red Pepper Coulis Complete The Mix Of Flavors.

Crab Stuffed Lobster Tail A’la Valentine ~ Served With Champagne Risotto, Grilled Asparagus And Drawn Butter. You’ll LOVE This!!!

Dessert

Flourless Chocolate Tort ~ Garnished With Raspberry Sauce And A Dollop Of Whipped Cream.