This past weekend, my husband and I went to The Irish Rose for dinner. The Rose was an all time favorite of ours for their Friday night "Adult Happy Meals." The wood grilled grouper was the best I've had. We quit going to The Rose about a year ago because the grouper just wasn't what it used to be. I don't know if they started getting their fish from a different source or if they made a change to their kitchen staff. We gave it several tries and it no longer compared to the grouper we had in the past. The thrill was gone.
So, we decided to give The Irish Rose another try. I ordered the whitefish which came with soup or salad, pasta alfredo and fresh aspergus. I chose a salad with basil vinegrette dressing. The salad was a nice mixture of greens and the homemade dressing was wonderful. Unfortunately, the whitefish was a little on the bland side, as was the pasta. This dish could be so much better with a wine or cream sauce.
My husband ordered the pork loin medalions whith garlic mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli. He also would have enjoyed a sauce with the medalions as they were missing a little flavor. He raved about the garlic mashed potatoes. I seriously think he would have been happy with just the potatoes and his Corona!
Our waitress was attentive and friendly. I think I like The Rose mostly because of the atmosphere. The booths are reminicent of the old Rock River Deli that used to be on State and Madison. (Those were the days.) And the beat up hard wood floor ads a special warmth.
All in all, I'd give the Irish Rose 3 out of 5 stars. The Irish Rose is located at 519 East State Steet, right on the cormer of East State Street and 3rd Street. To make reservations, you can contact The Irish Rose at 815-954-0480.
Bon Appetit'
Lisa
Comments