Big Mamou (Springfield, MA)

Big Mamou (Springfield, MA):

A hidden treat inside a hidden gem of a city. The city  of Springfield itself has a rustic, gone by the way atmosphere. Where once a populous shopping metropolis once stood, now stands a survivor of natural disasters inching its way back into becoming a thriving community.

Springfield- New Orleans Creole restaurant- (The sauces are really filling.) Basic ingredients that can be found anywhere but when thrown together and mixed with the chef’s sauces. It takes you back to the bayou and a home cooked meal.  The chef bottles and sells his homemade hot sauce for a few bucks…worth it to add to your collection.

Gumbo (Creole)- YUM!!! With a toasted, thinly sliced baguette with a cheesy corn and garlic topping. This is a great addition to a spicy, slight salty concoction of vegetables and strongly flavored stock that is known as gumbo. This particular gumbo was lighter in coloring and poured over a small portion of steamed seasoned rice.

Red Jambalaya(Creole) -Very Really filling. Shrimp, yellow grained rice, sausage, celery, red bell peppers, with yellow onions.  “Be full and not skinny!” this should be the profile of this particular dish.

(3 stars ***)- Cajun/ Creole Southern food made to order.

Street parking- Simple seating- good for families, large parties, and date night. Décor- casual with a New Orleans- Mardi Gras vibe. Hand painted mural in the bathroom gives an additional strength of ethnic charm.

Big Mamou

63 Liberty St
Springfield, MA 01103

(413) 732-1011

Chez Albert (Amherst, MA)

Chez Albert- Like most French restaurants outside of a big city, it is one that is always in demand and coveted. This one in particular combines french cuisine with fresh organic food from local farms in the pioneer valley. Nestled on the main street of Amherst, MA it is decadent, with a slight romantic charm. The hustle and bustle of a college town outside reminds the guest of the rare dinning delight that is rarely found surrounded by students. The wait staff is just as carefully chosen as the menu. Hints of well-bred youth, coupled with optimism, and the desire to please. Attentive and knowledgeable, the servers have been trained to receive their guests with the utmost care.   

I was lucky to try their Filet Mignon, Halibut, and the tiramisu.

The filet mignon was cooked to perfection. Practically melting together, it was a perfectly prepared alfalfa raised slice of beef. However, the sauce was on the weaker side than anticipated. It was reminiscent of more of a Zinfandel than a Cabernet, that left me feeling cheated out of what should have been a great triumph. The mashed potatoes and the sauteed leeks helped to liven up the plate, but not enough to spare my deflated feelings.

The flounder on the other hand was spectacular. Truly remarkable pairings of  white wine and lemon saffron butter sauce with encrusted almonds with a side of sauteed spinach and golden yellow potatoes. Light, appealing and completely captured the essence of the Loire Valley.

The Tiramisu was delightfully robust while at the same time maintaining the light fluffiness of the traditional dessert. Strong, assertive, with a hint of a secret that left nothing to want was the best way to end the meal on a high note.

It was a bit more than what I would normally spend, but for a quality meal with fresh produce, and fine service; it is a pleasure that I hope that I will soon try again.  

(4 Stars-****) French Cusine

Chez Albert (Amherst, MA) French Cusine Restaurant- Amherst, MA
178 North Pleasant Street Amherst, MA 01002

(413) 253-3811

Parking- along the street
Recommend making a reservation- Even if you just want to sit at the bar (They get busy quick!)