Black Eyed Sally’s (Hartford, CT):

 Black Eyed Sally’s (Hartford, CT):

Can we say delicious? A hidden gem in the downtown city of Hartford, CT, this cajun bbq blues restaurant/ bar has the right stuff. Its situated right near the park on the eastern side of downtown. Perfect for those who are looking for a happening place for a good hardy meal and an adventure.

The Ruben and Bleu Cheese Burger- is a monster of a burger with everything that makes this a fancy man burger. Delicious aged blue cheese with carmelized onions, and all the fixings. Who could ask for more right? But wait, add on a side of their potato skins or sweet potato fries and you might be in a little place called heaven! Yum!

Pulled Pork Sandwich- Fresh, bbq with either a hint of pineapple, hint of spice, or a full on burn your noise hairs spicy. These sandwiches are full moist, with fresh buns and either a side salad or fries to help cleanse the palate and make you begging for some of their homemade pecan pie.

Side of Mac & Cheese- $3.00

OH MY! Seriously delicious with the cream, grated cheese, and buttered bread crumbs. This is a treat that Paula Dean would even say, "Damn that be good!" Order the full dinner version with bacon, broccoli, and a full bodied beer and you will be as fit as a king.

(4.75 out of 5 stars ***1/2) BBQ/ Cajun- other than putting a bunk in the back and giving me beer on a discount pure heavenly goodness. YUM!

Black Eye Sally's
350 Asylum St
Hartford, CT, 06103
860-278-Ribs (7427)

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