With the kids back in school and chaos reigning once again in our house, I decided it was time to focus on my husband and myself as a couple a little more. I find summer way easier, when it comes to the chaos of being a parent. Dinner can happen a little later, bedtimes are more flexible, if a bath gets missed oh well, and sports and after school activities are at a minimum. I don't feel quite so pulled in 500 different directions.
I decided we needed to have more regular date nights, I know it's hard sometimes to fit enough time in, but even if it was just a meal out. Now there is nothing worse than finding the time for a date, hiring a babysitter, spending all the money to do so, and then having a meal that is not up to your expectations. Well let me tell you, that was not at all the case when we went to Meridiem Kitchen & Lounge.
We were invited to come in for dinner, and when we walked into the restaurant, the ambience alone was worth the trip. Meridiem is so open and bright, with glass walls, an amazing featured wine display, and the most amazing chandelier. It's such an upscale yet relaxing atmosphere, it makes you just want to kick back and enjoy yourself, there was even live music. I loved that there were so many seating options from regular tables, to bar height larger group tables, to couches inside and out. The patio area was amazing, it had bright furniture, with comfy couches, and it's even air conditioned. The patio even sports a corn hole game, Â if you feel to let your competitive side shine. All I could think about when I saw this beautiful patio area was a mom's night out, I could picture curling up on those comfy couches with a drink in hand, hanging with the ladies, hmmm maybe that will be the next article.
Speaking of drinks, Meridiem not only has all your traditional cocktails, and I am certain every wine you could think of, but they have some pretty tasty signature drinks. I have to say that "Women Are Always Right" had to be my favorite, and not just because of the name. The service was exceptional, our waitress was very attentive, and the staff was all so friendly. Ryan, the owner, operator, bus boy, cook, dishwasher....yep he does it all, was a very personable guy. He came over and chatted with us, he gave us suggestions on food and drink, and made us feel very welcome.
We decided to start with a couple appetizers, so we shared the calamari and toppings on toast. The calamari was spot on, it was crispy yet not rubbery, and the lemon beurre blanc and marinara sauce were so fresh. For the toppings on toast, we decided to try the Heirloom, which had heirloom tomato, buffalo mozzarella, basil, balsamic reduction, it was so fresh and hubby had to fight me for this one. We also tried the Peach, which had mascarpone, prosciutto, fig jam, and sliced peach. This one was hubby's favorite, the bold flavor of the prosciutto paired with the sweetness of the fig and peach was perfect.
For dinner we ordered two different things to share, come on how do you decide when you're at a new restaurant for the first time. Hubby ordered the Italian Hoagie which had prosciutto, soppressata, salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, red onion, mayo, oil and vinegar with a side of #hashtag fries. The bread was perfect and the ingredients were top notch, you could tell only quality deli meats and cheeses were used, and the topping to bread ratio was perfect. I ordered the Avocado Chicken sandwich, a six ounce chicken breast, bacon, pepper jack cheese, and cucumber ranch on brioche bun. The chicken was perfectly cooked, so juicy and flavorful, and the brioche bun was so fresh. The cucumber ranch was a perfect addition to this sandwich, it was such a cool refreshing flavor alongside the pepper jack cheese. It was so cute, when I was taking pictures of our food, an elderly couple seated beside us invited me over to take pictures of their entrees as well, the burger and grilled cheese sandwich looked amazing as well. The dessert menu had a great selection, but we were way too full to even attempt it, next time we will need to leave room.
Meridiem has a back room that can be closed off for private events, making it the perfect location for birthday parties, bridal showers, or corporate lunches. Also, if you are looking for a spot to go for a couple of evening cocktails, then the patio at Meridiem is where it’s at. The couches just scream to be curled up on, with a drink in hand and some good company. I have heard that the breakfast menu is also amazing, and I can't wait to try it out, I am thinking a breakfast date with hubby just might be in order. Meridiem is also kid friendly, especially during breakfast hours, and Ryan even mentioned that they are thinking about doing some kids activities down the road, which would allow mom and dad a few minutes to eat in silence. What would be better than a relaxing atmosphere, amazing food & service, and someone entertaining the kids for you!
Make sure to check out Meridiem Kitchen & Lounge for yourself, you can find more information HERE.
And don't forget to get a cup of Jelly Bellys on your way out!
