Christmastide Whisper, cuts from the Target

Winter vacancies. Deserted piers on the St. Martin, somewhere north of Rt. 90. 12/16/2021.

     Since it was December, we found that checking schedules had been crucial. Like checking the winds, tides, and water temps when the surf was open, Wattman had found that verifying tavern schedules ahead of time made for a smoother evening. He still made the occasional faux pas. This evening I had slipped, did not pay enough attention to the Watt's updated text, and arrived at the wrong establishment. A quick phone call, a course correction, and I made it to the destination; Just Hooked in Fenwick Island, DE. Though I am sure he was not intentional with his early week change of venue, the Watt was late nevertheless. The Crew had dropped in during a season past and we were hoping that their standards had been held to point. There was a nice crowd for a Wednesday night. Turned out they were running a 20% discount special, yet seats at the bar were open. Flat-screens in abundance, the deco, and music to further the festive atmosphere of December all tailor-made for the Christmas Spirit.

Our barkeep was clearly in the weeds with orders and our service was a bit slow. 

So, after being served a 'round (excellent seasonal brews by the way), we jumped in with Flash Fried Brussel Sprouts, House Fish Tacos, Boom Boom Shrimp, and their famous Veal and Lobster Meatballs as our choices for the night. Brussels done right...gave a nice intro crunch to our meal. The tacos were a slight disappointment with the fish being small portions. The shrimp did not disappoint being large and well-seasoned. But the stars of the night were the meatballs. Sometimes a simple thing done right can steal the show...chunks of lobster snooped around the ground veal. Our only wish was we could've had more to eat. With the discounted tab, our value rating jumped. Just Hooked has been an upper tier establishment that should never be missed. It may be our top rated of the year. At this point, we exchanged banter and gifts before heading out to our next stop of the night.

Just Hooked, 12/15/2021

THE RATINGS-

Flash Fried Brussels: B

Beer: B+

Fish Tacos: C+

Boom Boom Shrimp: A-

Veal and Lobster Meatballs: A

Value: B+

Atmosphere: B

Overall Score = 3.21

   Traditions mean everything to most people. We have our own traditions here at the Crew.  Wattman rarely being on time. Christmas presents unrealized, like a bad Santa. However, we have good traditions too- like the undeniably good  baking of LWatt who made decadent cookies and provided to people who are the cookie poor, such as myself, in this holiday season. Then there's our camaraderie and friendship...most valued all the year. 

Target back in position, in the Zone. Northside Park, 12/15/2021.

We've had one particular tradition that has always carried us through the ages this time of year. It doesn't matter the weather. It can be freezing cold, wet, windy, crowded, or otherwise. Somehow, some way, a Crew member makes it to the Winterfest Of Lights in north OC. This year the three of us made the trip once again. With decent weather we walked the entire display and enjoyed the light with only a small crowd in attendance. This was the second year that the route was opened up as a walking trail and I can honestly say I can never imagine going back to using the Boardwalk Tram.

Sparkling sights while getting our steps in. Soon, the night of Christmas lights came to an end, the mark of the close of our year. We said our goodbyes hoping for yet another stoked year of good times, for while the voice may be only a whisper I can hear the ocean calling our names. With the rise and fall of the tide, the crash of each wave on the beachhead, it is a call that only the lucky few can ever hear, and I am blessed to say I am one.

"Mele Kalikimaka and a Happy New Year!"
-the Crew

Barren End, notes from the Watt

Looking for incentive...walking the barren shore towards the session's disheveled end.
67th and Holidays, 11/4/2021.

Dark clouds, just another day.

No sunshine, I don't care if it rains.

-BTO, "It's Over"

     Water was in the lower 60's so I had to be nuts to do it in a rubber top and trunks, but this was the last call of the mid-weak surf sessions. I had no interest in suiting up in full rubber for what might be a few short rides. By the looks of the empty lineup, the chopped surf, and the deserted shoreline, a barren end to our beach season. Getting into the ocean was co-ooold. I did my best to grab a ride, but the current and lack of power in the swell made positioning difficult. After paddling and missing a few, and drifting about 2 blocks south, the cold finally convinced me to call it. Target had been keeping an eye out, however LWatt was having nothing to do with the chilled 15mph northeast winds choosing to wait at the vehicles. Coming up to Target, I commented on the conditions. His response was succinct- we've seen worse and did better. It was cold...no excuse... a waste of the last surf.

     The evenings dining was a bit better. We were hanging in one of the newest West O taverns- Coastal Smokehouse. A Matt Ortt Company (O. Pines Yacht Club, Coastal Salt), Coastal Smokehouse specialized in  barbeque, steaks, and a variety of bourbons, whiskeys, and scotches in an atmosphere of dark wood and leather chairs. Target ordered himself a beer...myself, a Bulleit Bourbon to warm the bones. No drafts here, all bottles. We scanned the menu and put in for Signature Q Wings, Sticky Bits, a mix of fried pork belly bits, brussel sprouts, and candied pecans in a bourbon glaze, Smokehouse Roasted Vegetables, and the Pulled Pork Sandwich.

The wings were pretty damn good. Very good taste, although they could've been bigger. The Sticky Bits were a surprise...very addictive. The veggies were an LWatt pick, but we all found ourselves digging into 'em. The pulled pork was tasty, yet didn't have that wow factor to win bragging rights. At the end of the night, we were satisfied, but missing the draft list. When the tab came, the cost had us missing the draft list even more. The acoustics in the restaurant were poor, as every conversation seemed amplified. If there was music, we couldn't hear it. Still, Coastal Smokehouse was comfortable with plenty of flatscreens to watch over sports. It would be worth another visit later in the Journey to check what, if any improvements get made. For now, surf is done for the year, and we have the winter season to schedule. Hopefully, we will all stay healthy and safe as we move toward the holidays. 

THE RATINGS-

Beer: C

Signature Q Wings: B

Sticky Bits: B+

Roasted Vegetables: B-

Smokehouse Pulled Pork: C+

Atmosphere: C

Value: C-

Overall Score = 2.43

One 'N Done, notes from the Watt.

 

"I'm gonna bust you up!" -Clubber Lang
Paddling into the one and only round. 66th and Holiday's, 10/28/2021.

     Our sky was cloudy, which meant the dark was coming fast. Like that punch you don't see coming, the swell had chest to overhead waves rising instantly from different directions. A "Bomb Cyclone" nor'easter was closing in on the Delmarva Peninsula, with high winds rocking the Atlantic and blasting sand across the beach. It was a wise choice to bring the bodyboard and fins instead of breaking a board. 

Sunset storm clouds moving in, 10/28/2021.

LWatt chose to wait in our SUV, while Target joined me out on the beach head. Taking a look at the growing rage, he just shook his head as I headed out into the churn. I was fairly sure he was counting on some kind of inheritance. Once in the lineup, trying to gain some semblance of position was near impossible. It felt like as soon as I would turn to grab on to a shoulder the entire wall was closing out and I was fighting to keep from taking it directly on the head. Before I knew it I was exhausted, winded, and it was getting really pitchy. I quit looking for epic, and settled on getting back in one piece. Kicking into the next swell, I felt myself lifted and then dropped hard into the whitewater boil. No carving here, just hung on as I was driven all the way up onto the sand, where I stayed for a moment, catching my breath...thinking "stupid move," no intent to re-enter for "one last ride"...a one and done session... down, but at least not out. Target was still shaking his head as we headed back, certain he had been dealt a near miss once again. 

     It was an easy locale for our turf call tonight. Directly across from Holidays, Sky Bar and Grille, a rooftop tavern with open air views of both the oceanside and bayside. A bit chilly for that this evening, however we had plenty of room at the oval bar in the center. Our bartender was prompt with our drink orders while we looked over the promising menu. Up for judgement were the Cheesesteak Nachos, Fish Tacos, and Barbeque Wings. The nachos were made with roasted rib-eye, cheese sauce,

pico de gallo, and topped with guacamole. This would have been a much better blend if the rib-eye was not so dry. The tacos were served with soft shells and plenty of fixings, yet the fish, which was both salmon and tuna, was also very dry and overcooked. 

Unfortunately the wings followed suit. We were not sure if they were burnt to a crisp, or just twice fried to a hard texture...so much so that the tasty sauce could not hide the poor preparation. During the course of our meal, we had Thursday Night Football on the ample number of screens, and live music by the popular Lauren Glick duo both of which helped us to get over the disappointing food, but not forget. After all, that is part of the Crew's Journey- to determine how our local establishments stack up. We had no qualms determining that the Sky Bar had some major work to do, starting with the cook. Or, this bar will have it's lights knocked out sooner rather than later.

THE RATINGS-
Beer: B-
Cheesesteak Nachos: C
Fish Tacos: C-
BBQ Wings: D
Atmosphere: A-
Value: C-
Overall Score = 2.17

66th & Holidays

Seasonal Closeout, cuts from the Target.

 

Fast end to a fast right. Holidays and 66th, 10/21/2021.

    We have but 3 surf sessions left at most. A seasonal closeout that was blowing thru just as certain as the evening's high winds. Daylight Savings Time was coming to a close. The Watt had insisted on a 6pm meeting time. Though I had my doubts, I arrived with time to spare, but Wattman is nowhere to be found. So, I waited in the fading daylight, my punctuality jilted once again, while buffeted by the gusting winds, some that exceeded 30 mph. When the Watts' do arrive, LWatt is in shorts, an error in judgement she worked to overcome with a towel. No easy task, considering the Watt's determination to salvage what was left of the surf session. The air temps were in the lower 60s. The ocean was in the upper 60s. However, October is not known for clean surf and with the southwest winds whipping up the Atlantic, it was an accomplishment just to find a space in the lineup. The sun had set by the time the Watt hit the water, so LWatt, with her legs wrapped in a towel, and myself stood on the beach instead of our normal recliner beach chairs. Wattman did his best to ride the chaotic chop while he could still see an outline of a break. The night quickly took over. After several failed attempts, and one fast right, we all wrapped up and headed back over the dune.

     This evening we had chosen an upscale location inside the Hilton Ocean City Oceanfront. Over the years we had tried several hotel bars with varying results. The 32 Palm was an odd name considering we saw no palms, palm plants, or palm trees of any kind. No matter, this establishment was more a lounge than a bar. Seating next door met the accommodations of a full scale restaurant. Being this was off season, our barkeep was in charge of the entire lounge. Thus, at times service was a bit slow as she worked to cover the tables and bar. The beer selection was small but with large cold glasses Watt and I were quickly satisfied with our brews of choice. As we reviewed the menu the two large TVs and classic rock music provided a nice backdrop for dinner. I like steamed shrimp, so that was the first of our choices and the biggest disappointment of the night.

I am not sure what fall flavor they were trying to produce, but they missed completely. Maybe cinnamon, maybe not, but it definitely wasn't Old Bay. Our next choice was a Blue Cheese Steak Flatbread Pizza. Fair, with the blue cheese complimenting the steak, but it was not outstanding. Our last choice was the BBQ Bacon Burger... angus beef topped with pulled pork and bacon. Yes! Three of my favor foods all  joined together. The only thing missing was there was no mustard to be found on the bun or the bar, however we all agreed it was the best pick of the night.  Upon leaving the lounge we did  a quick tour of the hotel, and in the process realized there were only two more surf sessions left. The real question was: will the Watt survive the close of the season's Journey and make the most of the daylight left?  Time will be the judge.

THE RATINGS -

Beer: C+

Steamed Shrimp: C-

Blue Cheese Steak Flatbread: B-

BBQ Bacon Burger: A-

Atmosphere: C+

Value: C

Overall Score = 2.46

September's Gone, notes from the Watt.

Summer has come and passed. The innocent can never last. Wake me up when September ends.  - Green Day
Dusk at our home break's namesake, Holiday Inn Ocean City, 66th and oceanfront. 10/7/2021

     I have to say that the earlier hour of sunset has made it very difficult for LWatt and I to meet Target in a timely manner. Call it work, call it being ready to go on time; all excuses. With only five surf sessions left, each one has it's own importance for being there on time. Add the fact that we are losing approximately ten minutes of daylight per week...no bueno. A wake up call- moving forward, we gotta do better. The evening brought 10-15mph winds and choppy surf. After hiking to the shoreline to do my own reconnaissance to see if it was worth the effort, I came back with positive results (which Target knew was inevitable). I talked him into grabbing the Canon automatic while LWatt cleared emails. No chair, no fixed position, and considering my being tossed around by the sectioned swell, the Target did pretty well.

Lights out! One of two attempts. Holidays break, 10/7/2021.

Besides, it was probably the shortest surf sesh so far this year as the light of dusk was pretty much gone in about 20 minutes. A quick about face as we headed back to the vehicles. It's October. September's gone. I definitely must do better about hitting the waves earlier.

     Endless Summer...don't we wish...no, it was the weekend of the Endless Summer Cruisin' car show. A great display of hot rods, classic cruisers, and muscle cars that roam throughout the main drag, and parking lots of Ocean City. Tonight's diner of choice has become a Crew's classic of sort, Albertino's Brick Oven Eatery on 131st Street and Ocean Highway. Complete with a couple of Cruisin' Classics in the lot, the restaurant had a modest crowd and we were able to find seats at the bar the moment we walked in. Our barkeep was quick take our order for a trio of cold brews for myself, LWatt (a fruited sour) and Target, although they had several taps that had run empty- IPAs no less. And while he insisted the one IPA they had that I ordered was a Rye IPA, to me it was more of a heavy Red Ale...more malty than hoppy. But, I love beer, so I didn't argue. We cruised even faster through the menu and were ready with our food preferences right behind the beer. Putting in for the Fried Mozzarella, Homemade Meatballs, and a Chicken-Bacon Margarita Pizza, the food was out to us pretty jiffy fast.

The fried mozzarella was ok. Nothing fancy about the seasoning. Of the three picks, this seemed most like a previously frozen dish, although the marinara was good. The meatballs were incredibly tender; a blend of beef, veal, and pork with the right amount of sauce and cheese. Target absolutely inhaled his. The pizza, which LWatt and I rave about when asked, had big slices of chicken (although a little dry), fresh cut bacon, homemade sauce and plenty of an Italian blend of cheeses. While we ate, the classic rock music being played was not overwhelming, and we could enjoy both football and baseball on the flatscreens in front of us. Of our experience, the only downer was the heavier than normal tab. However, it's effects were less lasting with the good food. Another nice night of surf, food, and conversation. Target set a heading to cruise the strip on his way home, while LWatt and I went to grab a coffee, and check out the sportsters. Did I mention surf, food, and conversation? Add Cruisers to the list...sweet night, pure Stoke.

THE RATINGS-
Beer: B-
Fried Mozzarella: C
Homemade Meatballs: A-
Bacon Chicken Margarita Pizza: B+
Atmosphere: C+
Value: C-
Overall Score = 2.63

'72 Chevy Nova Super Sport

Custom 2020 'Vette

1950 Silver Low-Rider

"Ambition is the key to success, persistence is the vehicle you arrive in."

-William Eardly IV

Priorities Of The Crew, cuts from the Target.

Hard pull left...like the light, the depth of the Atlantic faded fast. Holidays surf, at 65th St. 9/29/2021.

     Another Wednesday, as Wattman had requested the switch due to work. He also requested an early start which I questioned. Yet, he insisted and sounded positive it would not be a problem. Once again I stood waiting. The Watt needs to help his folks at work understand the priorities of the Crew. It was not the best beach night as the evenings were now becoming chilled to the low to mid 60s. But, LWatt and I had come prepared with sweat shirts and hoodies as we settled in. With the Atlantic's waters rolling in the lower 70's, the Watt stuck to trunkin' it with a rash guard. Good thing he kept busy in the knee high lefties that pretty much cast him onto ankle deep shorebreak, otherwise those breezes would've made for a brisk lineup. Halloween being just weeks away, tis the season that I come supplied with bags of M&Ms to help us pass the time while Wattman searched for the next ride. In the words of Grandmaster Flash, "I'm not big on snacks, but if I do, I like a few M&M's." I know my priorities! With the remaining light quickly fading, Watt was pretty much jumping any wave available. To his credit was able to find a couple small backsides right before darkness overtook the beach.

     Tonight we had chosen an OC bar and grill icon for the last 40 years, the Bull on the Beach. A locals bar where everyone talks to their neighbor, and you never feel like an outsider (sounds like a sitcom). With extremely large flat-screens and good music at just the right decibel level it was no wonder the bar was packed on a Wednesday night. We quickly got our cold beers in iced glasses while we reviewed the menu. This place is known for it's Pit Beef so we ordered the Dunker, a cheesy French dip version, along with Seafood Potato Skins, and the Spicy BBQ Wings.

To be honest, I have never understood the fuss over pit beef. Tonight I was validated. While the sandwich was a good size, the beef itself was bland, without seasoned flavor, and a little dry to both LWatt and myself. Not that the Watt noticed as he inhaled his portion. According to LWatt, it certainly was no comparison to a Chicago Italian Beef. The seafood skins had cheese, lots and lots of cheese, but very little seafood. One tiny, tiny shrimp per skin will not make the cut. The wings had a very nice barbeque flavor, with a light heat, but the skin was not crisp. Part of any good wing is a crispy skin. Yeah, we're tough judges and expect a lot from our food, even so we have high priorities here as well. Our evening drew to a finale with a few brave bar singers, as it was karaoke night at the Bull. As good as any entertainment, most of the fun of karaoke has always been the challenge faced by the people who try and sing. The first dude up did ok with Garth Brook's Friends In Low Places, but the next singer was nowhere near on key as her performance was a bit teeth grinding... we couldn't even remember the song afterwards. However, our last performer had talent and we stayed to hear her complete Fleetood Mac's Landslide, finishing with a round of applause from the Bull crowd. Nicely done. A fun close to a night of cold beer, ample food, friendly conversation, and good times.

THE RATINGS-

Beer: B

The Dunker: C

Seafood Skins: C

Spicy BBQ Wings: B-

Atmosphere: B+

Value: B-

Overall Score = 2.63

Angry Diversion, notes from the Watt.

Readying to exit and keeping an eye on the horizon as the next set crashes in. Holidays and 66th, 9/22/2021. 

     The sun was out in the AM, but by the afternoon the clouds had moved in. We had moved the day to Wednesday, as the next day was looking like a rain-out. Still humid. This was the front that was going to rid us of the humidity. But for this evening, another session dealing with it. Winds were running about 10-15mph, with air temps in the upper 70s F. Water was still comfortable at just under 75F. But, as LWatt put it, the ocean was looking kinda angry. With a rip here and there, I found it easy to get into the empty lineup (Target would remind me, "it's empty for a reason").There was a hard current moving north, and the swell was heaving and choppy, making it difficult to get position, much less hold position. Seemed like for every shoulder I'd try to grab onto, the bottom would drop and I'd find myself dumped into a closing section. LWatt and Target's situation didn't pan out much better. Sitting in their low profile beach chairs, the wind was blowing sand, the tide was coming in, and though we had planned a little time before sunset, the clouds pretty much covered that up. The humidity and the cool winds made for a damp night on the beach. Needless to say, we folded up early. Even that exercise was a challenge for me as I had to keep one eye on the incoming as I wrapped the leash and exited the churning surf. We finally crossed to the other side...the streets of OC, with lighter winds, and the promise of a cold beverage...or two. 

    We headed to a well known establishment for the Crew; one block up and over, the Longboard Cafe in the 67th Street Town Center. We've been there a couple of times, the last of which was about two years ago. Sorta a favorite for us with all of the surf paraphernalia. And, the food is consistent. Although the joint was still somewhat full, we managed three chairs side by side at the bar. Our bartender was on the spot, but not too knowledgeable about the beer offerings. Fortunately, we could read, and managed to ascertain our drink preferences on our own.

Target's first issue was his beer...a Stella...cold, but no glass offered. My IPA was good...and cold...and in a glass...probably because it was a draft. Putting our order in we readied ourselves for a Crab Quesadilla, the Longboard Wings, and the Huntington Pier Cobb Salad. The salad came out plentiful, with chunks of veggies and grilled chicken. The wings were hot and came out with their house "addiction sauce" and blue cheese crumbles. However, the wings could have used more of the sauce which included honey, and made for a dry yet sticky experience. The star of the night was the quesadilla. Loaded with crab, our only suggestion would have been a little less cheese. No real music was playing and with only two TVs, the entertainment was limited. However, as usual our conversation was lively and we enjoyed the evening. Our surf season's end is fast approaching. Days are shorter, cooler weather's coming, and I for one, am hoping for better waves. There is always the promise of next week in this Journey.

THE RATINGS-

Beer: B-

Crab Quesadilla: B+

Longboard Wings: B-

Huntington Pier Cobb: B

Atmosphere: C+

Value: C+

Overall Score = 2.71 

Stingy Surf, cuts from the Target.

Using the force- anything to squeeze that next ride. Holidays and 66th, 9/16/2021.

     In an unusual precedent, I was a couple of minutes late...cat sitting for a neighbor. Some might say I had my priorities mixed. I would disagree. My decision was well thought out. The ocean was as it had been most of the season, and now into the 2nd Season- shorebreak, with little to no ridable waves. A stingy surf that left little for the Watt to choose from.  And, what was available were fast burners landing on packed sand. So, one could argue that my choice should end up being the best for everyone. Once there, Wattman was stubborn when it came to searching for at least one ride, and insensitive to those waiting. However, it was a very pleasant evening on the beach giving LWatt and I an opportunity to catch up on current events. In fact, it may have been the best weather night of the whole season, which made the earlier sundown a little more bearable. Regardless, darkness came barging in. With little light left in the evening sky the Watt was forced out of the water, and we soon were headed back over the dune.

     This being Bike Week and all, I was unsure as to Wattman's downtown pick for dinner. Parking can always be a problem near the boardwalk, but you have to give the Watt some credit... he does know all the little back alley spots. The Brass Balls Saloon on the boards has been around for a long time. Tonight it was filled with at least eighty percent bikers. It's a saloon...called Brass Balls...we had a feeling. As we pulled up to the rustic bar, the night started well- two craft beers (the Watt got his IPA), the most important being my Leiny Summer Shandy, both in a very cold glass. I couldn't help but think maybe most of the places we have been to this year could take a lesson from this place. It's not that hard to get the beer right with just a little effort. LWatt even got a fancy Key Lime Crush.

After review of the menu we put in for the Old Bay Wings, Chicken Quesadilla, and their famous Burger with bacon. We had to say, the wings were outstanding. Large, juicy, just the right amount of Old Bay spice, hot in temp, and reasonably priced. The quesadilla was filled with plenty of chicken but needed more fixings. But, it was the burger and fries that disappointed. This place is known for its burgers, and if...and I mean IF the burger and fries were hot it may have lived up to it reputation. Since both were barely warm, it was hard to judge how good it might have been. With lots of TVs (had football on 'em!), excellent classic rock music, and a friendly bar staff, Brass Balls made the night (and the poor surf) easy to survive in our Journey. I do not believe we will be waiting another 8 years before we check 'em out again.

THE RATINGS-

Beer: B+

Old Bay Wings: A-

Chicken Quesadillas: B

Bacon Burger: B-

Atmosphere: B+

Value: C+

Overall Score = 3.04

Coming In For A Landing, notes from the Watt

Morning found us calmly unaware

Noon burn gold into our hair

At night we swim the laughing sea

When summer's gone

Where will we be?

-The Doors, Summer's Almost Gone

Screeching down a waist-high line. 46th-47th Street, 9/2/2021.

      It was the first surf of September; the last surf of our summer season. Labor Day weekend coming up, school's starting, so pretty much summer's end for our resort town. We're not complaining though. The area becomes our quiet time. No parking issues, no crowded beaches or lineups. The number of memorable mid-week sessions have been limited this year, but this evening held promise. Hurricane Ida had worked it's way from the Gulf, across the Ohio Valley and was now a tropical depression, hanging inland off our coast, but giving just enough push to produce semi-clean, surfable thigh to occasional stomach high sets, even at high tide.

The Atlantic was a comfortable 80 degrees, with the humidity having cleared out enough for lower 70s temps on the beach. We hit up the 47th Street Break where the jetty seemed to divide the incoming enough to keep the shorebreak to a minimum. Tonight it had done it's job as the waves were breaking about twenty yards offshore. LWatt and Target were set back in their recliner chairs, chewing on M&Ms, and taking in the salt air. I paddled out into a mild southerly current. I had three others in the lineup with me. But, it was a chill crowd. After a few squirrelly attempts, I finally found a line and squeezed out a couple frontsides and lefties. The lefts weren't pretty (they never are), but came with quick drops that I managed to hold onto. Hitting a front just right always comes with that sound of rushing water as the wave folds behind you. Smooth night on the water that finished with a floater into the mush. Nice way to land the night. Wrapping the leash signaled the wrap up of the surf session, and we folded up the chairs, commenting on how nice the evening had been both on the beach and in the water. I'd call it casual stoke as we headed back between the condos and across the dunes.

     We tried it the week before, but it was not to be. This week was a change of luck...14th and bayside. There are few better places to touchdown and bring an end to the night than on Harbor Island and the Reel Inn. Covered in angler lore and full of locals, we took no issues in pulling up to the first high top table near a flatscreen. Football highlights caught my eye, with previews of the upcoming pro season. A hostess brought us the menus and a waiter, who seemed like he stumbled upon us by accident, took our drink order. LWatt was taking it easy this evening, however I had a Lot 3 IPA draft and the Target, in hopes of getting another cold one like the last time we were here, got a Miller Lite...can. Target quickly asked for a cup, yet our waiter seemed to walk away with that look of trying to remember what he was going to get. Dude...cup!

Finally, after Target's beer had warmed, he came over with a cup and took our order as well. We put in for the Maverick Wings, a combination of Old Bay and honey, the Mahi Fingers, and the Crab Pretzel. The pretzel came out covered in melted cheddar with a plentiful container of crab dip. Not bad, the pretzel was plenty hot, but the dip could have had bigger chunks of crab and the Old Bay dusting made it salty. The fingers...a tasty, crispy crust, but they seemed like fancy fish sticks. The winner of the meal was the wings. Really nice taste, and not overly messy considering the honey, but in this case the Old Bay got hidden a bit. Like finding position in the lineup...sometimes too close, sometimes too far, sometimes too much, sometimes too little. We can be a fickle Crew, but that's what helps us survive the Journey. As I finished my 2nd draft we hung out, talking about what our plans were for the long weekend; listening to music that was a hair loud, catching some football on the tube. Good friends, great camaraderie. Finally it was time to take off again. Next stop was the off-season...I better call ahead.  

THE RATINGS-
Beer: C- (Cups, Warm beer)
Maverick Wings: B
Mahi Fingers: B-
Crab Pretzel: B-
Atmosphere: B
Value: C+
Overall Score = 2.58

Reminder- Late Summer Blues, the Target's notes.

Warm water and knee high rollers = evening stoke. 47th Street break, 8/262021.

     I arrived early, walked over the dunes and saw no waves. Then I wondered if the Watts would ever arrive on time. This being late summer, each minute late means less surf 'n beach time and less time to fulfill our souls. That's right, we had noticed the sun setting noticeably earlier. It served as a reminder of our season having surpassed it's apex...late summer blues. Upon arrival, we hit the beach. LWatt and I settled on our watch. It was a nice (maybe the best of the year ) night on the sand. Light southeast winds kept the mayflies away. While there may have been almost no waves when I arrived, a small swell had appeared with enough of a bump to give Wattman a few fast knee-high right hannders before they broke in the 78 degree short waters off the beach. Even with the warm ocean temps and comfortable breezes, the sun set quickly and sent us on our way.

     For the evening's dining experience, the Wattman had chosen an old favorite- the Reel Inn. Watt and  I had one of best cold beer nights in our history here many years ago and we were eager to try again. Due a history of closed tavern picks, the Watt had called ahead the day before to confirm Reel Inn's hours. But, fate was not on Wattman's side. That's right, as I arrived the guard told me the bar was closed due to a CV-19 outbreak. Another reminder of our continued stonewall by this virus. I phoned the Watt with the news he was completely disappointed and even had to walk around the bar to confirm the information. At this point his mind shut down and I had to come up with an alternative bar. Pancho and Lefty's was a new restaurant nearby; just on the other side of the Rt. 50 Bridge. Though it was our second week in a row doing Tex-Mex and the Watts had been before, I had not. So, with no better ideas...we were off.

The place was surprisingly small...booths and a few tables tables surrounding a horseshoe shaped, albeit relatively empty bar. We saddled up and our barkeep started out well with friendly service  and cold craft beers in glass that arrived in no time at all.

This was to be the highlight of our service as we had to ask for napkins, plates, forks and finally our tab before the night was over. With the kitchen set to close soon we ordered Chips, Guacamole, and Salsa, Chipotle Shrimp Skewers, and the Grilled Mahi Tacos. There were nine shrimp, yet we weren't tasting the chipotle spice and they were small in size.

The fish tacos had a good taste with a light spice, but they could have had more fish. The bar setup was nice for watching the TVs, however not well placed for anyone at the tables. There was music, like walking down Miami Beach, but not really my style; not terrible to listen to, not overly loud, yet it seemed mostly just background noise. Our tab wasn't bad, although we only had two entrees and chips. Thus while Pancho's was a nice set-up, next time maybe we will take a Lefty and try somewhere else. Till next week...

THE RATINGS-

Beer: B

Chips, Guac, and Salsa: C

Chipotle Shrimp Skewers: C+

Grilled Mahi Tacos: B-

Atmosphere: C+

Value: B-

Overall Score = 2.50