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There’s Lots to Look Forward to in 2018 for the Dining Divas
by Lisa Kampeter
Dining Divas Start Off The Year
with their Annual Brunch
. . . this year at Olive Street Cafe
We were about to come out of the deep freeze we’d had for a couple weeks, the day of the first Dining Divas of 2018, but we had to get through the ice first. The forecast did not scare off our large group kicking off the dining season with our traditional Sunday brunch. And we were grateful that the Olive Street Café could accommodate us with a reservation, something that seems to be more and more difficult to get these days when it comes to breakfast places.
It was a crowded morning in this restaurant in Creve Coeur, but there was plenty of seating for us tucked in a corner by the windows, which was good because we could keep an eye on the weather. No surprise, the Blonde Diva arrived late. Apparently she’d been there earlier but couldn’t seem to find the restaurant in the parking lot. She’s always good for a laugh. Just like when we talked about getting together for a game of Mexican Train Dominoes. She told us how confused she was when she was actually in Mexico, and people spoke of playing dominoes. They played so differently than she was used to, she said. What she didn’t realize, when she thought they were speaking of “dominoes”, they were actually saying “vamonos” which means “let’s go” in Spanish.
Although it was loud and hard to hear with a group of our size, we did discuss exciting things to come in 2018. In just one semester, the Professor Diva will become the Retired Diva. In March, the Engaged Diva will become a Mrs. The Auntie Diva was eagerly awaiting the arrival of the newest addition to her family. And this year, a few of the Birthday Divas will be celebrating milestones and going on big trips.
Because of the upcoming events, the Dieting Divas were really planning to cut back and kick their exercise programs into gear. Well, at least after that Sunday. And the Spanish Slinger seemed like a great way to extend their holiday eating habits just a little longer. Made with corn tortillas in a tomatillo sauce and chorizo, this tasty egg concoction had quite the kick. The Olive Street Slinger with candied bacon and chili was another delicious option for the non-dieters.
The Chef Diva says she makes the best Biscuits and Gravy, and she seldom orders them out, but Olive Street Cafés’ were absolutely delicious. The Inquisitive Diva took a bite off the plate of another Diva’s Cheese Blintzes. Yum! “Dessert for breakfast!” she said.
Going the lunch route instead of breakfast, the Amateur Diva loved her Tuscan Chicken Sandwich with garlic rosemary asiago fries. And, the Grandma Diva was impressed with the Barbecue Chicken Salad and avocado ranch dressing as well as the large portion.
At the other end of the table, the Disappointed Divas thought the coffee tasted terrible, the food was average, the room was loud, and our waitress was annoyed. However, it was a nice touch when the owner stopped by to check on us all. We almost suggested that he hire the Supportive Diva because she stepped right in and expedited the payment process for all of us.
There are two sides to every table, right? The cranky side and the happy side. It just depends on what side you get stuck on. Our lively group will agree that we all enjoyed getting together. The restaurant and the food is just a bonus (for most of us). Olive Street Café may not be worthy of a second visit to some in the group, but to others, warmer days and dinner on their outside patio is definitely something to look forward to.
