I continue to scour this area, and beyond, for destinations that
motivates my senses and act as a template for better business practices. These are a few downtown options that I have
always been impressed with and hope that you can make time to enjoy a meal
within their walls.
Lecosho: Matt Janke won me over years ago at his gourmet counter in the market known as Matt’s in the Market. Today, Lecosho is always among my favorites to visit. It’s convenient and semi-hidden location on Harbor Steps makes this a great destination downtown for lunch, happy hour, and dinner.
Beloved Dish: Tie between the anchovy salad or the roasted chicken
Special detail: Great happy hour & late night menu!
Go: www.lecosho.com
Farestart: Their
tagline is “the most socially responsible crouton you’ll ever eat.” This is a comprehensive 16 week training
program combining hands on food service training with classroom instruction,
individual case management and job placement services. This program prepares homeless and
disadvantaged men and women for jobs in the restaurant and hospitality industry
and helps them to keep those jobs.
Each Thursday evening they host Guest Chef Night where a different
local area restaurant brings their culinary team to work with the students in
preparing a 3 course meal for only $29.95, with a 100% of those proceeds going
back into the program.
Beloved Chef: Paratti Café (His business partner is a former
graduate of this program)
Special Detail: Farestart offers catering options too!
Favorite Server: Timothy