Silent Ambush, penciled licks from the Target.

Saturday morning and the rain had passed, but the wind kept screaming.
Chunky ductwork at Malibus on 8th, 3/3/2018.    -Malibu Pic

   T'was the first storm of March, on the first day of March. Moved in like a silent ambush. Akin to a Lion, it would creep through the first hours pacing itself with steady, light showers before pouncing on the Shore with 70 mph winds, driving rains, even snow flurries. It was with the initial rain and cold and what we hoped was the last gasp of winter, that we headed to a new establishment in Fenwick. Well, new for us. Wattman's work was holding him over a bit, yet again. However, like the early hours of the impending squall, I paced myself and remained calm. With only a week till the time change and three till the official start of Spring, I find myself restless. It has been too long since I have seen the beach. The Atlantic had just squeaked over the 40F mark. Still frigid by our standards. Probably a good two months before the Watt can hit the surf...well, except for Hawaii. More to come on that... 
   Mio Fratello is an Italian Steakhouse that has been around for several years. After hearing an update on the place from former crewman Cheeks Wix adding the idea of old Vegas entertainment (Sinatra, the Rat Pack, etc.) we had decided it was a place that must be reviewed. But, as we headed to the bar I was disappointed...no singer this night. Instead a trivia guy had taken the stage. This was an upscale restaurant with white table cloths and elite décor, not just some beach front eatery. We felt the sub-par entertainment induced disappointment as we settled in at the bar.

The barkeep was on it, pouring us cold refreshment. From the first swig, the Watt's beer appeared to be flat and was quickly traded out, glass and all. Off season however, had its advantages. The quick service and all night happy hour pricing was most appreciated, especially after glancing at the regular prices on the menu. With this being an Italian joint I decided to go Italian and ordered the Baked Ziti. In addition, we added the Old Bay Wings and Rockfish Tacos.

The Ziti was very cheesy and very good; several different cheeses blended together for an original creamy taste. The wings had a light breading, which for us in most cases, is the kiss of death. Still, they were well cooked and had a nice flavor overall. We all agreed the tacos looked better than they tasted. While each was loaded with plenty of fish, there was no taste at all. The fish was most likely frozen, and the celebrated extras packed an absolute zero punch. 

   We sat at the bar eating and judging with the loud trivia guy breaking in on the overhead music, as we discussed the upcoming trip to Hawaii. This trip will mean a three week break in our sessions. I am forced to face the contemplation of personal distress, confronting our harsh local weather... alone...while Wattman and Wife bask in the tropical sun. But, I have plans. The Ides of March come due. With the trivia contest finally over we left with the small crowd, and headed out into the foul night. Would there ever be a return engagement? Perhaps. As Italian Steakhouses go, a pleasant experience. But we are on Patrol, and our sector must be thoroughly scoured. Myself? I have three weeks and a stratagem to attend to.

THE RATING -
Rockfish Tacos: C
Old Bay Wings: C+
Baked Ziti: B
Beer: B-
Atmosphere: B
Value: B
Overall Score = 2.67