Zingermans - November 2, 2003

[SandyM]

Hi Guys,

I heard back from Kathi the other day. She suggested we meet Sunday morning (time yet TBD) for breakfast at the deli, then tour the Bakehouse. We could spend some time cruising the streets of Ann Arbor, touring different sites, and then go to the Roadhouse for a late lunch/early dinner.

How does that sound to everyone?

Please indicate in this thread your serious intent to attend. I'd love to give her an accurate headcount by mid-October. Thanks!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To pique your interest, this article was in today's paper. No wonder I love Zings so much...... :D :D

Published September 30, 2003
http://www.freep.com/features/food/rector30_20030930.htm

Fit for a king: Top-of-the-line food will cost you, but Zingerman's Weinzweig says flavor payback is worth it

BY SYLVIA RECTOR
FREE PRESS FOOD WRITER

BY SYLVIA RECTORFREE PRESS FOOD WRITER

Most food purveyors would be delighted just to have you buy their stuff, but Ari Weinzweig wants more.

He wants you to appreciate food -- to know not only how extraordinary it is, but how and why it got that way.

So Weinzweig, the cofounder of Zingerman's Delicatessen in Ann Arbor, one of the country's best-known specialty food stores, spent five years writing the book, so to speak, on some of the most fundamental flavors and foods in Western culture.

Arriving in bookstores in two weeks, "Zingerman's Guide to Good Eating: How to Choose the Best Bread, Cheeses, Olive Oil, Pasta, Chocolate and Much More" (Houghton Mifflin, $35 hardcover, $19.95 paper) is not only an education in taste, it's as delicious and satisfying a read as the traditional foods it celebrates.

In 584 breezily written pages, he explains why black olives are black and green ones are green, why some balsamic vinegars cost $5 and others are $50, and why Italians don't need to drown their pasta in sauce. He tells you why English cheddar tastes nothing like American cheddar, what to look for when you're shopping for salami, how to avoid buying a ho-hum vanilla bean and much, much more, including about 100 recipes.

Weinzweig could fairly be called America's evangelist for excellent eating, but to his credit the book isn't written as a sermon to the foodie choir.

Instead, it's directed at everyone who's curious about food and enjoys good ingredients but who wonders if they'd really be able to tell the difference between a $6 box of pasta and one that's 99 cents.

"You don't have to be born French or be an insufferable food snob to discern the difference between a well-made farmhouse cheese and a bland, rubbery, factory version that bears the same name," Weinzweig writes in the book's introduction.

Learn how to taste

If "Zingerman's Guide to Good Eating" accomplishes just one thing for its readers, he said last week, he hopes that "it enhances their enjoyment of eating. And I think the way to do that is to understand more about the value and importance of the raw ingredients that go into food."

The other key is learning how to taste -- part of an important process he calls being a "mindful eater."

Outlining four simple steps of mindful eating -- learning about food, looking at it, smelling it and tasting it -- Weinzweig describes a process that's easy and rewarding.

"Tasting isn't rocket science," he writes. Trying foods in side-by-side comparisons is one of the most telling ways to learn about flavor."

Weinzweig suggests this exercise: "Take a simple recipe for pasta tossed with olive oil, garlic and cheese, and try it two ways. First pour some cheap oil on a bowl of poorly made, inexpensive pasta, then sprinkle it with powdered garlic and pre-grated, cardboard-canned Parmesan. . . . Then take the exact same recipe, cook up some excellent artisan pasta, toss it with an exceptional, full-flavored olive oil, a touch of chopped fresh garlic and top it with some real Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese."

Taste the two dishes -- the same except for the quality of ingredients -- and you'll see that, yes, well-made ingredients do make a difference in taste.

Quality costs more, though, and over and over, his book illustrates why.

In the chapter on olive oil, for example, he takes readers along on his trips into European olive groves to meet olive oil producers, showing how the fruit is grown, harvested and cured. Shortcuts can be taken in almost every step of the process; olives can be picked at different stages of ripeness, stripped mechanically from the tree or picked by hand, and pressed quickly or slowly with stones or in machinery. Each change has an effect on flavor.

Weinzweig explains why cold-pressed oil is usually better-flavored, and why not all oils labeled "extra virgin" have the grassy or peppery flavors of a great olive oil. Some oils sold in the United States have been chemically treated to meet the technical definitions of "extra virgin," he says, but because they began as a low-quality, essentially flavorless oil, they can be sold very cheaply.

First-time buyers may take them home thinking they've found a good deal, "but after using it they'll quickly decide that olive oil is just one more example of modern marketing hype with no real redeeming value," he writes.

Weinzweig's choices

At the end of each chapter or subject, Weinzweig recommends his personal favorite brands in that product category. Many of the olive oils cost $20 to $30 or more per bottle; a pound of excellent French cheese might run in the $20s. And he acknowledges that not everyone can afford those ingredients all the time.

But that's the benefit of learning your own tastes and knowing which products taste best to you. "You can buy small amounts, and getting better-tasting ingredients makes eating more rewarding," he says.

"A little bit of good olive oil or a little bit of Parmigiano-Reggiano goes a longer way" and tastes better than larger amounts of less-flavorful oil or Parmesan from a green cardboard can, he says.

"There are ways to enjoy a little bit of a good thing. A couple of ounces of good cheese is really a wonderful thing," he says.

To those who might suggest that the "Zingerman's Guide to Good Eating" is a brilliant way to create demand for many of the products sold at Zingerman's, Weinzweig offers a different perspective: It's also a guide to every competitor who wants to copy the company's inventory and methodology.

"The message, to me, is that it's never about right and wrong; it's not that you're bad or wrong if you eat this or that," but that people learn there are differences in foods, he says. "The whole point of the book is to help people learn how to taste and decide what they like for themselves."

If they learn about the characteristics of more-flavorful, traditionally made ingredients, they'll begin asking for them in more places. "The more they demand better-tasting food from everybody, including us, the more there will be."

It's all part of the message he'll be delivering on a national book tour in October and November.

Closer to Christmas, he says, a special edition of the book will be available exclusively through the company's Web site and stores, offering 10 more subjects than the Houghton Mifflin version includes. There are new products he didn't mention at all, he says, and ones he barely touched upon, including the housemade fresh cream cheese from Zingerman's Creamery.

Even in its current form, it's a lot to digest. But for food lovers at every level of knowledge, it's a banquet of information, inspiration and good reading not to be missed.

* * *

Ari Weinzweig will sign copies of "Zingerman's Guide to Good Eating" at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at Zingerman's Next Door in the Kerrytown Shops in Ann Arbor. Zingerman's Delicatessen is at 422 Detroit St., Ann Arbor; for information, call 734-663-3354 during business hours, 7 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. The company's Web site is www.zingermans.com

[badunnin]

I'm there! (Not too early Sunday, though, OK? I wasn't planning on going to be early Saturday night. ;) )

[SandyM]

lol Bethany. I'll see what I can do. ;)

[Ralph]

Count DW & I in.

Any thoughts/recommendations on overnight accomodations?

[SandyM]

Originally posted by Ralph
Count DW & I in.

Any thoughts/recommendations on overnight accomodations?

Hey Ralph,

I haven't done it yet :o but I'm going to do some research on places to stay. You can PM or e-mail me with your preferences (cost preferences, any rewards programs you're involved in, type of places you're looking for, etc.) and I'll see what I can find.

A few of us (even locally) are going to spend the night in Ann Arbor Saturday night just to hang out, maybe grab dinner, nosh, get to know each other. Does this appeal to you?

[cangoss]

I am planning on participating. I'm happy to be a "happy hostess" in Ann Arbor too - I don't have room to host anyone overnight, but I'd be happy to help with hotels, restaurants (for Saturday), etc.

[Molli526]

Hi Sandy,

I am a definite for Sunday. Just tell me where and when and I am there :D I will talk to you about Saturday - maybe join up with you guys at dinner?

Thanks again for putting this all together.

[jphilg]

Hi guys-

Do you need a firm number for this extravaganza? If not, can you put me on the "50% Chance or Less" list? I would love to join you, and if I am already traveling that week (which is a serious possibility), I will wrap A2 into my itinerary. I'll make my own sleeping arrangements. ; )

I hope....I hope....I hope......

Jen

[SandyM]

Hey Jen,

That's great news! I'll put you on the "definite maybe" list. :) It would be great if you could come (because I know that you know A2 rocks :p :D ).

[Molli526]

Jen,

It would be great if you could come!

[jrichards]

Sandy,

Please count me as a definite for Sunday. I'd also like to hook up with everyone on Saturday.

Once again - - for anyone who needs accommodation, I have an extra bed/bath at my place that you're welcome to use. I can also try helping with any Ann Arbor questions, etc.

Thanks very much Sandy for all the work you've put into arranging this, and hooking us up with our own personal Zingerman's connection! This sounds awesome.

Jennifer

[badunnin]

Bump for the night crowd.

[phantomcg]

I'm planning on heading out sometime on Saturday.

Sandy - let me know if you need any help with the research on hotel rooms.

Jen - I hope that your schedule permits you to join us.

I'm SO looking forward to this. I've made some really good friends through this board and I'm looking forward to seeing some of them again as well as making new friends!!

I love the way that a common interest has brought together people who would not ordinarily have noticed one another!

Cheryl

[breadmama]

I am so glad this is all coming together! Sandy, thanks for being the queen organizer. I am really looking forward to sharing one of my very favorite places with some new friends!

Morning sounds great to me. If we can arange child care, my DH would love to come, too. Plan on at least one of us, and hopefully two. I'll let you know as soon as I know for sure.

I'm so excited! Wahoo!

Laurie :)

[Chefzhat]

Me.:D

I've checked with the Residence Inn - Ann Arbor. They have rooms from $159. What's cool is that they are like apartments, 2 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, etc., sleeps 4 or more and provides everyone some privacy. Just a thought.

Debie

[SandyM]

Obligatory Bump. ;)

[Natasha]

Could you please put me on the "50% chance or less" list that Jen is on? :) It would certainly be fun -- I just have to figure out all the logistics.

Natasha

[badunnin]

Originally posted by Natasha
Could you please put me on the "50% chance or less" list that Jen is on? :) It would certainly be fun -- I just have to figure out all the logistics.

Natasha

Woohoo!!!1

[badunnin]

Originally posted by SandyM


Done. But I neglected to tell both of you how difficult it is to get OFF that list..... ;)

Is it harder than getting out of a Friday Klatch?

[SandyM]

Originally posted by Natasha
Could you please put me on the "50% chance or less" list that Jen is on? :)

Done. But I neglected to tell both of you how difficult it is to get OFF that list..... ;)

[SandyM]

Originally posted by badunnin
Is it harder than getting out of a Friday Klatch?

Oh yeah. Leigh and Peggy are way too easy on you all. :p :D

[jphilg]

Ok...so in a burst of impulsiveness, I just booked a ticket that has me in Ann Arbor on Sunday the 2nd. Whoo hoo! It was cheaper than my normal direct ticket to Indianapolis, so essentially I hitched a free ride.

Move me up to the 90% category! (There is always a chance that everything will get messed up....such is the story of my life.)

Jen

[SandyM]

Originally posted by jphilg
Ok...so in a burst of impulsiveness, I just booked a ticket that has me in Ann Arbor on Sunday the 2nd. Whoo hoo! It was cheaper than my normal direct ticket to Indianapolis, so essentially I hitched a free ride.

Move me up to the 90% category! (There is always a chance that everything will get messed up....such is the story of my life.)

Jen

Good to know someone else is as impulsive as I am. ;) :D

Yay Jen! That's awesome!!

[Peggy C.]

OK so I've been VERY quietly lurking on this thread. I was hoping maybe I could come up, but this is the same weekend as John's annual hippie/naked witch camp out with his buddies. (don't ask, trust me don't ask:o) So I'll be at home with the pooch. :(

[SandyM]

Peggy, Peggy, Peggy!! Isn't there someone who would love to stay with dear, sweet Otis while you head north for a bit?? I want to see you again!!!

[breadmama]

Me, too, Peggy! I was also looking forward to seeing you again!

Laurie :)

[SandyM]

Bump. ;)

How about Red Hawk for dinner on Saturday night? Non-smoking bar, if that makes any sense. :D Great food. Jen kindly reminded me of that place, and it's been too long since I've been there.

[badunnin]

Originally posted by SandyM
Bump. ;)

How about Red Hawk for dinner on Saturday night? Non-smoking bar, if that makes any sense. :D Great food. Jen kindly reminded me of that place, and it's been too long since I've been there.

Never been there, but it sounds great! Heck, I was a red hawk in high school :eek: :o

[Chefzhat]

What kind of food??

Does this mean we can't go to Bucca di Beppa?:D ;) :p :D

[SandyM]

It's not your typical bar food, without all the smoke. (I spent last weekend in New York - even the bars are nonsmoking. No smoking in the reception hall, either. It was heaven. But I digress.)

Never heard of Bucca di Beppa, but what the heck. Throw that in the mix too. :)

[Peggy C.]

Originally posted by Chefzhat


Thud. The sound of another joke falling flat on it's face.:)

Welcome to my world!

but I did get your joke!

[Chefzhat]

click here (www.bucadibeppo.com)

It's sort of a joke, Sandy - it's a chain restaurant.

Thud. The sound of another joke falling flat on it's face.:)

[cangoss]

We don't have Buca di Beppo in Ann Arbor... we have just about every other chain restaurant but the closest place for family style red sauce Italian from Buca is in Livonia, about a half an hour away.

I've been trying to think of some places for Saturday too.
One that I came up with was Zanzibar, which was originally equatorial food from around the world, but has now branched out a bit. It's got great ambience and really good food too. I thought it would be good because it's unique.

Another one is Mediterrano, which is near the mall and probably will be close to the hotel. They have food from around the Mediterranean and it is very good. It's a white napkin kind of place, a little more upscale than the others.

Red Hawk is very good, but they don't take reservations and it gets very crowded on weekends, especially if there's a concert or something else going on downtown. I've waited up to an hour for a table for two there on the weekend, so I imagine it would be worse for a larger group.

[SandyM]

Nice thought, Candace, with the crowd on State Street. I didn't think of that.

I'll PM you and get some other ideas, since you're right in the neighborhood. :)

[jphilg]

Is Sweet Lorraine's still open? I used to love that place, but I think I remember that it was closing.

Mediterrano is good (their couscous a sept legumes is my favorite!) but not very picturesque, out by the mall.

What about that wine bar....The Earle? It is a great place to sit and nibble, they have tons of wine by the glass, and great food. And it is not too too expensive.

If we are more on a budget, how about Cafe Zola? Another good sitting and chatting place.

I haven't been in Ann Arbor for 3 years, so my recommendations may be a little out of date.

[Chefzhat]

Believe it or not I've eaten at Mediteranno and loved it! We were there a couple of years ago for our anniversary. Good memories for me (got my new flashy diamond and new clothes!) Even my dh bought clothes!

Debie

[Molli526]

Originally posted by jphilg
Is Sweet Lorraine's still open? I used to love that place, but I think I remember that it was closing.



I think it did. The closest to AA is the Sweet Lorraine's in Livonia.

[SooCookie]

Wow, it's been a long time since I have checked these boards!!! I really would love to join everyone, but unfortunately I cannot. I do have a good suggestion for dinner though, since I work in Ann Arbor. There is a really good Thai restaurant that is kinda small and I don't think many people know about it yet. I forget the name, but it is on Washtenaw just east of US23 on the south side of the road. REALLY, REALLY good Thai food there. And for those of you familiar with Ann Arbor, no, it is NOT the yucky one in the hotel that changes names every month!
Hope this helps with the decision making!

Michelle

[cangoss]

Yes, unfortunately Sweet Lorraine's closed. There is now a greek restaurant in its place - I haven't tried it yet.

The Earle is a very good idea if people want to go upscale. Entrees are around $20, but they also have a wine bar where you can order appetizers for around $10. It's my favorite date restaurant.

Cafe Zola now has dinners in the evening - it transforms from a cafe and has a full menu. I haven't been yet but I've heard very good things about it. It's upscale too.

TupTim is the Thai place that Michelle is talking about. I really like it. It's in Ypsilanti, in a converted Long John Silver's (!) It's not really that exciting for out-of-towners though. It's the best Thai in Ann Arbor, but not as good as some places I've been in the Detroit area, or in other cities.

I think we need to figure out a budget for the dinner first. Are people willing to spend $20 for an entree, or should we try for something more in the $10-15 range?

[badunnin]

Originally posted by cangoss
cities.

I think we need to figure out a budget for the dinner first. Are people willing to spend $20 for an entree, or should we try for something more in the $10-15 range?


I'm a little bit more budget-minded for this trip. I know Zingerman's isn't going to be cheap (well, it has potential to be expensive)

[SandyM]

Originally posted by badunnin



I'm a little bit more budget-minded for this trip. I know Zingerman's isn't going to be cheap (well, it has potential to be expensive)

Agreed. I think we should all pack as many as comfortable in a room (haha) and splurge on Zings goods.

:cool:

[jphilg]

I am up for anything....I'll just vote with the majority. I am not sure if I am going to do hang with the BB gang Sat night, or stay with friends, so I don't want to be the swing vote and then not show.

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by SandyM


Agreed. I think we should all pack as many as comfortable in a room (haha) and splurge on Zings goods.

:cool:

After spending more time looking through the Zingerman's catalog, I've come to the conclusion that this is a VERY good idea.

I've not been to Ann Arbor since I was a small child, so I'll go along with whatever decisions that the group makes in terms of restaurants and hotels.

Cheryl

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by Peggy C.
OK so I've been VERY quietly lurking on this thread. I was hoping maybe I could come up, but this is the same weekend as John's annual hippie/naked witch camp out with his buddies. (don't ask, trust me don't ask:o) So I'll be at home with the pooch. :(

Peggy - if DH is going to be at home that weekend, I can ask him if he would watch Otis for you - that is if you would feel comfortable leaving Otis at our house?

Cheryl

[SandyM]

lol Cheryl - I love your new tag line. :)

I'm very excited. The participant list is growing (thanks to Bethany's recruiting efforts this weekend ;) )

[badunnin]

I might have to buy new jammies for this trip! It's like camp!

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by SandyM
lol Cheryl - I love your new tag line. :)

I'm very excited. The participant list is growing (thanks to Bethany's recruiting efforts this weekend ;) )

Thanks, Sandy. I am just looking forward to this trip so much - DH thinks I'm nuts!

Go Bethany! The more of us the better.

Cheryl

[Lrimerman]

I can't remember when I last posted on this thread, and it is getting too long to go back, but I am planning on coming with my mom (if she is not in FL) if she is gone, hopefully DH will come.

Also, my parents just went to AA Friday night (to Zingerman's of course, now that I told her about it) and they went to a new Whole Foods that they said was HUGE!! They have a lot of hot foods, salad bar, etc. at this one (more so than the ones in Rochester and West Bloomfield/Farmington Hills stores) and you guys could go eat at the cafe there.

See you on the 2nd at Zingerman's.

Lisa

[Peggy C.]

Originally posted by phantomcg


Peggy - if DH is going to be at home that weekend, I can ask him if he would watch Otis for you - that is if you would feel comfortable leaving Otis at our house?

Cheryl

Cheryl of course I'd be comfortable leaving Otis with Jeff, but with my current job situation I don't think I'll beable to come at all.:(

Thank you that was a very generous offer.

[Sarah]

Bethany told me on Saturday about this, and I really want to come :) It will be my birthday present to myself. Sandy, can you either post or PM the hotel details so I can make arrangements?

Thanks,
Sarah

[jphilg]

Originally posted by SandyM
Yay Sarah!! That's awesome! I'm so glad Bethany put the word out to you guys on Saturday.

Okay guys - here it is - last call. I need to know a final count so I can reserve rooms at the hotel (which hasn't been chosen yet, by the way). Leaning towards something close to Briarwood

Please quote my post, add your name after mine, and then post, with however many nights you require.

Sandy (1 night - Saturday)
Jen (0 nights-shacking with friends)

[badunnin]

Originally posted by SandyM
Sandy (1 night - Saturday)
Bethany (however many nights Sandy will be there. ;) )

[SandyM]

Yay Sarah!! That's awesome! I'm so glad Bethany put the word out to you guys on Saturday.

Okay guys - here it is - last call. I need to know a final count so I can reserve rooms at the hotel (which hasn't been chosen yet, by the way). Leaning towards something close to Briarwood

Please quote my post, add your name after mine, and then post, with however many nights you require.

Sandy (1 night - Saturday)

[SandyM]

Ok. Where's that Strongbow??? :mad: :confused:

Thanks, Bethany.

So far:

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)

[Sarah]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)

[Chefzhat]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)

[Molli526]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (as of right now, 0 nights, if I am able, I may change my mind ;), I am good with more than 2 people to a room)

[Ralph]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (as of right now, 0 nights, if I am able, I may change my mind ;), I am good with more than 2 people to a room)
Ralph & DW (2 nights)

[phantomcg]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (as of right now, 0 nights, if I am able, I may change my mind ;), I am good with more than 2 people to a room)
Ralph & DW (2 nights)
Cheryl (1 night, Saturday)

[badunnin]

bump

[cangoss]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (as of right now, 0 nights, if I am able, I may change my mind ;), I am good with more than 2 people to a room)
Ralph & DW (2 nights)
Cheryl (1 night, Saturday)
Candace (0 nights - sleeping in my own comfy bed 1/2 mile from Briarwood :D )

[jrichards]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (as of right now, 0 nights, if I am able, I may change my mind , I am good with more than 2 people to a room)
Ralph & DW (2 nights)
Cheryl (1 night, Saturday)
Candace (0 nights - sleeping in my own comfy bed 1/2 mile from Briarwood )
Jennifer (0 nights - same situation as Candace, but couple miles from Briarwood). AGAIN, if anyone would like to stay at my open bed/bath, let me know!

[phantomcg]

Just a bump for anyone else who might be "lurking"

Cheryl

[breadmama]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (as of right now, 0 nights, if I am able, I may change my mind , I am good with more than 2 people to a room)
Ralph & DW (2 nights)
Cheryl (1 night, Saturday)
Candace (0 nights - sleeping in my own comfy bed 1/2 mile from Briarwood )
Jennifer (0 nights - same situation as Candace, but couple miles from Briarwood). AGAIN, if anyone would like to stay at my open bed/bath, let me know!
Laurie (0 nights - will be home with the family. But I'll join you at Zingerman's!)

Can't wait! :)
Laurie

[Natasha]

Hey,

I don't think I'll be there. But have fun!! And let us know all the cool things you did and bought and ate! :)

Natasha

[SandyM]

Sorry to hear that, Natasha. :( We'll take pictures. :)

[britneyelise]

I am a very unlikely maybe. I get my work schedule soon, if I have to work it will depend on if I feel like making the drive after I get off! If I don't have to work the chance that I will want to make the drive will increase. I wouldn't be getting there until 11 o'clock or so at night, so I would just need a quick place to crash and brush my teeth (jennifer I might take you up on your offer :), if you don't mind).

Shannon

[jrichards]

Shannon -

That would be great. Just let me know.

Jennifer

[SandyM]

Shannon - I hope you can make it! Jennifer - thanks for the offer for her. You're both sweet - you'll get along just fine! :D :D :D

How does everyone (that's spending the night) feel about Hampton Inn?

Hampton Inn - A-Squared (http://www.hamptoninn.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml;jsessionid=LXYEVMISBLHCKCSGBIV2VCQKIYF C5UUC?ctyhocn=ARBVWHX&nav_sub~html=null&brand_id=null&nav_bottom~html=null&brand_directory=null&nav_top~html=null)

There's the website to check out the particular one I'm looking at, right across from Briarwood Mall.

The rates I got for Ralph & DW: 1 King bed, nonsmoking, 2 nights, $79/night (with AAA discount, which I have, in case you do not)

For singles pairing up, I got 2 double beds for one night (11/1) for $69.00/night. Problem is, I can only reserve 2 rooms total at this rate.

I was able to get the same rate ($69/night, king bed) for those who wish to have their own room.

The location seems pretty reasonable, and it's probably 10 minutes from Zingermans (but close to shopping and restaurants).

What do you think?

[aggie94]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (as of right now, 0 nights, if I am able, I may change my mind , I am good with more than 2 people to a room)
Ralph & DW (2 nights)
Cheryl (1 night, Saturday)
Candace (0 nights - sleeping in my own comfy bed 1/2 mile from Briarwood )
Jennifer (0 nights - same situation as Candace, but couple miles from Briarwood). AGAIN, if anyone would like to stay at my open bed/bath, let me know!
Laurie (0 nights - will be home with the family. But I'll join you at Zingerman's!)
Eva (1 night, Saturday)

:D

[Molli526]

Yay Eva!

[Molli526]

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (1 night, Saturday)
Ralph & DW (2 nights)
Cheryl (1 night, Saturday)
Candace (0 nights - sleeping in my own comfy bed 1/2 mile from Briarwood )
Jennifer (0 nights - same situation as Candace, but couple miles from Briarwood). AGAIN, if anyone would like to stay at my open bed/bath, let me know!
Laurie (0 nights - will be home with the family. But I'll join you at Zingerman's!)
Eva (1 night, Saturday)



OK, who needs/wants a roommate???

[badunnin]

Originally posted by Molli526

OK, who needs/wants a roommate???

Hey baby wanna shack up?

[Molli526]

Originally posted by badunnin


Hey baby wanna shack up?

Oh yeah. I think I just scored us a deal! WooHoo!

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by aggie94
Eva (1 night, Saturday):D [/B]

Alright Eva!! We'll have to send you back with even more stuff to back up for Arizonia!

Cheryl

[phantomcg]

Sandy -

Hampton Inn sounds great to me. Didn't we stay at a Hampton Inn in Columbus as well?

Anyway - let me know if you need me to reserve a couple of rooms. The only thing is I won't have the AAA discount.

Cheryl

[cangoss]

We got a special insert in the paper today from Whole Foods, and they're having a Taste Fest from noon-4:00 on Saturday Nov. 1. So for those of you who are already in town then, it would probably be a fun activity. Our new Whole Foods is absolutely amazing & overwhelming.

[britneyelise]

Whole Foods is having an event too? Candace, you are giving me even more enticement to come, I was just complaining on another thread that Whole Foods is still one of the places that gets raves that I have yet to visit ;)

Shannon

[Sarah]

The rate's fine, Sandy. Are you reserving, and then we pay you??

This is me just trying to be organized. :rolleyes:

[SandyM]

Bump. :)

I just heard from Kathi - she is so surprised and excited that people are coming in from all over (Ontario, Chicago, Phoenix, Grand Rapids - where next??? ;) ).

Here's how I've got it figured out for rooms - please correct me if I'm wrong:

Ralph & DW - 1 king bed
Eva & Sandy - 2 double beds
Bethany & Molli - 2 double beds
Sarah - 1 king bed
Cheryl & Debie - 2 double beds (ladies - please verify!)

Did I get everyone? I'll call and make the reservations under my name, and then when you all check in, you just leave your credit card number upon check in (so I don't get your bill ;) )

Updates/corrections welcome. Thanks!

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by SandyM
Cheryl & Debie - 2 double beds (ladies - please verify!)

Works for me if Debie's ok with it.

Debie - I know that you had mentioned having your own room - if that's what you want to do please don't hesitate to say so (I promise that my feelings will not be hurt!). I'd have no problem either sleeping on someones floor or getting another room if needed.

Cheryl

[badunnin]

Molli and I are taken care of already. (Thanks Molli!)

[DexterDenise]

Hey Candace, when you give me a shout out about the A2 supper club, add me to the taste event at WF for Saturday...Saturday evening and Sunday morning are probably out for me (especially since I'm new around here and don't know any of you)... ;) Sounds like something DH could babysit (excuse me, PARENT) for :D if DD is napping...what time is the tasting at WF on 11/1?

[SandyM]

Denise,

It would be great if you could join us on either Saturday OR Sunday (or both)!! Please don't feel intimidated.

I hope you can come! :)

Edited to say that Gremlins are alive and well today, I see. I posted mine after I saw Cheryl's, but here it is, before hers. Hmph. :confused: :D

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by DexterDenise Saturday evening and Sunday morning are probably out for me (especially since I'm new around here and don't know any of you)... ;)[/B]

Many of us met for the first time when we all went to Columbus, so please don't let this keep you from joining us. If you can get DH to watch your DD, please join us for awhile at the hotel. If the Columbus trip is any indication, there will be a lot of friendship and bonding going on at the hotel!

Cheryl

[DexterDenise]

Thanks, guys (or gals, as the case may be) ;) Can someone post times and locations in one handy-dandy spot? Say...

Whole Foods Tastefest Saturday November 1st: (time?)
Saturday Evening Dinner: (final locale and time?)
Zingerman's (ooohhh...magic brownies...)
Sorry, got distracted!
Zingerman's visit and tour Sunday November 2nd: (time?)

That would help...if it's already been posted, just point me in the right direction :p I scanned a lot of these posts...

[SandyM]

Unfortunately, nothing has been truly scheduled yet. I'm waiting to hear back from Kathi on the Sunday Zings event, but everything else is up to us.

A lot of suggestions have been tossed up for dinner on Saturday - can we try to nail it down soon? Keeping budgets in mind (and more spending for Zings). Mediterrano might be too pricey, but I'm just going by what I've heard on this thread.

Help?

[DexterDenise]

My 2 cents :) Zanzibar is worth it! So's the Earle.

[badunnin]

Originally posted by DexterDenise
My 2 cents :) Zanzibar is worth it! So's the Earle.

But we need to keep in mind some of us are working on tight budgets.

[SandyM]

Originally posted by badunnin


But we need to keep in mind some of us are working on tight budgets.

Right. I'm shooting for something not so pricey because we have some students coming. I have a job, but I'm more interested in Zings purchases than what I'm having for dinner. But that's just me. ;)

I'm certainly not advocating McDonalds (or any other fast-food, for that matter), but I'm sure we can come up with something mid-range, price-wise. Because we do have to factor in wine..... ;)

[Sarah]

To go with tight budgets, some of us are also working in different money...

[DexterDenise]

I hear ya...I'm on a different kind of "budget" -- Weight Watcher Points :D I save Points AND money by ordering appetizers...which reminds me...thought there was a new tapas-type place in town...now THAT'S a great way to get a "taste of everything" for less $$

Hmm...have to research that for y'all...does it ring anyone's bell?

[cangoss]

The Whole Foods Taste Fair is from 12-4PM on Saturday.

I just had an idea for a fun, inexpensive place for dinner on Saturday. There's a Mexican restaurant in Ypsilanti called La Fiesta Mexicana. It has authentic Mexican food, nothing resembling Chi Chi's or Rio Bravo or any of the chains. Dinner can easily be eaten there for less than $10. I also like the fact that their portions are realistic - none of the "oversizing of America" stuff. The one downside is that they don't have alcohol, but you can bring your own. I know that they take reservations for large parties. I'll try to think of some other options that are more downscale but still fun & unique.

[jphilg]

Is the Grizzly Peak Brewpub still around? They have better-than-your-average-brewpub food, and the best mussels I have ever had. Price is right, too.

Here is a little blurb:

Grizzly Peak (http://www.michiganmenu.com/gp.html)

[Chefzhat]

Originally posted by phantomcg

Works for me if Debie's ok with it.
Cheryl

Oooo, lucky me!! This is fine!

Bring your special makeup:) I want to try out a sample. I'll bring my own brush . . .

Debie

[cangoss]

I think that Grizzly Peak might be over the budget of some people. I'm assuming we're looking for something around $10 for an entree? I like Grizzly Peak (especially their wood fired pizzas) but it tends to be more like $15 each before beer, which is a necessity there!

I had two more ideas:

The Original Cottage Inn - they have traditional pizzas, wood fired pizzas, and a variety of Italian dishes. Lots of room for a big group, and it should be easy on the budget as long as you order that way.

Another one - we could do a Chinese Feast. There is a restaurant on the West side of town (would save the hassle of parking downtown on a Saturday night) called Gourmet Garden that has authentic Chinese food. They have beautiful presentation, and the ambience is nicer than your average Chinese restaurant, even though it's housed in a former Ponderosa. The dishes are more than $10, but easily feed two if not three, so we could order several items and share to get the cost per head down. Two other Chinese places that I like are Szechuan West, which is just down the road from Gourmet Garden, and is in a bizarre grotto setting, and Middle Kingdom, which is downtown on Main St.

[badunnin]

Originally posted by aggie94
Sorry I won't be able to join you guys for any of the Saturday activities or dinner. My flight gets in laaaaaaaaaaaate Saturday night (or VERY early Sunday morning, however you want to look at it :eek: ), but I'll catch any night owls at the hotel/airport (Sandy will be picking me up, with whomever wants to join her in tow) and the rest of you at Zingerman's on Sunday. :)

I think I might be joining her! I'm so excited to meet you (and the rest of yous that I haven't met yet!)

[aggie94]

Sorry I won't be able to join you guys for any of the Saturday activities or dinner. My flight gets in laaaaaaaaaaaate Saturday night (or VERY early Sunday morning, however you want to look at it :eek: ), but I'll catch any night owls at the hotel/airport (Sandy will be picking me up, with whomever wants to join her in tow) and the rest of you at Zingerman's on Sunday. :)

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by Chefzhat
Bring your special makeup:) I want to try out a sample. I'll bring my own brush . . . Debie

Sure thing Debie! I even have a couple of eye shadows and a blush samples that came with an order - I'll bring those too.

Cheryl

[Molli526]

Oooh! Now we are playing make-up too! This is going to be fun!

[jrichards]

I am really excited about this! I'll try to think of more low-mid range dinner options. I also love Grizzly Peak, but agree that it could get more pricey quickly.

As far as Candace's suggestions, Cottage Inn or Middle Kingdom have the locatin/location/location as a real estate person would say. Cottage Inn is right near hte diag and central campus, while Middle Kingdom is on our Main Street downtown. At either, you could stroll around and visit stores before/after, or go get drinks. I also like Gourmet Garden and would be fine with that too. It's not in the downtown though. They have Peking Duck which is fun to order, and costs only $24 (feeds 4-6). I'm fine with anything!

Red Hawk would also fit the bill, but I think this came up earlier and was vetoed for some reason (I don't have time to re-scan currently)???

Someone mentioned tapas, and the only thing I can think of is Cafe Felix on Main. It has a European coffee shop feel with coffe drinks, alcoholic drinks, food, and a tapas menu. I've never been very impressed with the food I've had there though.

Jennifer

[badunnin]

I'm still up for Red Hawk, and looking at the menu for Grizzly Peak, it doesn't look too bad at all (half slab of ribs for $13, full slab for $18 - it's one of those things on a menu that i measure by - go fig.) I guess it depends if people will eat more sandwich/burger type stuff of more entree type stuff. It looks like a good mix to me (I'm a beer and burger kind of gal, not beer and pasta). Pizzas are in the $9 range at most. There's my vote.

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by Molli526
Oooh! Now we are playing make-up too! This is going to be fun!

Only if you'll give me some pointers on my hair! I think that you will be quite surprised with how long I've managed to let it get! Of course, I've told the girls at work that I'm going to have to cut my hair off - it's dangerous to my health! I don't know how many times I've burned myself with the gosh darned curling iron!!! The last one blistered and peeled!

Cheryl

[SandyM]

Alright, guys - sounds like Grizzly Peak is leading. I can try to get there early and get a table - or at least get my name on a list. What time should we plan on meeting for dinner?

[Molli526]

Grizzly Peak looks good to me too :)

Really, anything.

[Molli526]

Cheryl,

I can't wait to see how long your hair is :)

[Chefzhat]

Here's the Red Hawk menu (http://www.redhawkannarbor.com/index.php)

This looks very yummy!!

[KathrynY]

Hey guys - is there room for one more in the group?

[badunnin]

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Molli526]

Originally posted by KathrynY
Hey guys - is there room for one more in the group?


YAY!!!!!!!!!!! :D

[aggie94]

Another YAY!!!!!! I can't wait to see you again, Kathryn!!! :D

[SandyM]

This is gonna ROCK!!!! I sent Kathi (from Zings) a note a while ago, telling her we had representation from Grand Rapids, Chicago, Arizona, and Ontario. She's so excited!!! Just wait until she finds out we have an east-coaster coming in too!!!

Anyone else care to join in the mix??? ;)

:D :D :D

[SandyM]

Originally posted by Jasmine-Rose


I care to - very much - but I can't. I'll be thinking of you though!!!

I wish you could, my friend! You'll be with us in spirit, because I know you would love this place. Consider this your open invitation, whenever you're ready. :)

[Jasmine-Rose]

Originally posted by SandyM
Anyone else care to join in the mix??? ;)

:D :D :D

I care to - very much - but I can't. I'll be thinking of you though!!!

Maybe a friend and I will take a field trip into Boston or Cambridge and explore some foodie places there, just to be in the spirit of things that day ;) :D ;) .

[badunnin]

Sandy - don't we have Virginia, too?

[Lrimerman]

I have been out of town, but I just wanted to make sure I am on the list.

Sandy (1 night, Saturday)
Bethany (1 night, Saturday)
Jen (0 nights)
Sarah (1 night, Saturday...have you seen the intorvert article?? That's me...I will probably want my own room)
Debie (1 night, same as Sarah, will probably want my own room, or split a suite with someone)
Molli (as of right now, 0 nights, if I am able, I may change my mind , I am good with more than 2 people to a room)
Ralph & DW (2 nights)
Cheryl (1 night, Saturday)
Candace (0 nights - sleeping in my own comfy bed 1/2 mile from Briarwood )
Jennifer (0 nights - same situation as Candace, but couple miles from Briarwood). AGAIN, if anyone would like to stay at my open bed/bath, let me know!
Laurie (0 nights - will be home with the family. But I'll join you at Zingerman's!)
Eva (1 night, Saturday)
Lisa Imerman and guest (0 nights, will meet at Zingerman's on Sunday)

Thanks

Lisa

[SandyM]

Originally posted by badunnin
Sandy - don't we have Virginia, too?

Yep - thanks for the reminder, Bethany - sorry about that, Jen - it was unintentional!! :D :D :D

Here's an updated list, which includes our newest addition, Kathryn:

Staying 1 night at Hampton Inn:

Sandy and Eva (1 night)
Bethany and Molli (1 night)
Cheryl and Kathryn (1 night)
Sarah (1 night)
Debie (1 night)
Ralph and DW (2 nights)

Coming, but not staying at the hotel:
Jen
Candace
Jennifer
Shannon (staying with Jennifer?)
Laurie
Lisa and guest

I hope I got this right, and I hope I haven't missed anyone. Please speak up if I have, or if there are any other issues I may have overlooked.

One thing I've noticed - we haven't finalized a place for dinner. Lets try to get this one nailed down this week, if possible. :)

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by KathrynY
Hey guys - is there room for one more in the group?

There's always room for one more!!

I am so excited that you'll be joining us Kathryn!

Two weeks and counting......

Cheryl

[cangoss]

I was thinking about Saturday night's dinner, and started to wonder why we don't just go to Zingerman's Roadhouse? They take reservations for groups larger than six. I imagine that when we get done with the taste fest at the deli and the tour of the breadhouse, we're probably going to be stuffed and not that interested in a big meal at the Roadhouse on Sunday. I think it would be a great way to kick off the weekend. What do you all think? Sunday afternoon/evening when the Roadhouse dinner was originally planned, we could hang out at one of the great cafes downtown, like Sweetwater's. It would also be much easier to get into a Main Street restaurant Sunday evening rather than Saturday.

[breadmama]

Just had to pop in and say that I am really looking forward to this get-together!!!

Any time yet for Sunday morning?

Laurie

(Already making my shopping list...)

[SandyM]

Hi Candace,

I think Zings Roadhouse is a good choice, since they take reservations. Lets see how everyone else here feels about it.

Laurie - I haven't heard yet from Kathi regarding a start time on Sunday. She originally suggested starting with breakfast at the deli, so I'm thinking 9:00 or 10:00. I'll follow up with her next week and see what she thinks, and I'll report back.

[Molli526]

Sandy,

I vote for whatever is easiest - especially with a group our size :)

[kirkbyky]

I get to go!! DH and I have been wrangling with $$ and our schedule (overbooked like mad) for about 2 months now. I was really hoping that I could come for at least one of the days, and I can! I'm taking my sister out for her birthday on Saturday night (she lives in A2), but will be there on Sunday to hang out and (FINALLY!) meet all you great people. I may be able to do a bit on Saturday also, but that really depends on what's going on with DSis.

BTW, my parents and both of my sisters went to the new 'ZRoadhouse' for dinner about 2-3 wks ago. They said it was pretty good, a bit of a madhouse (they'd just opened), and there was a TON of food--I don't know if that's a good thing or not! :o :p

I've also been reading 'Zingerman's guide to good eating' which is excellent! It makes me hungry everytime I open the darn thing!:rolleyes:

Kyle

[badunnin]

YAY garlic lady!

What are the prices like at the Roadhouse? Good beer selection?

[kirkbyky]

I emailed my mom and here's what she had to say...

"$$$$, every thing is a la carte. Food was ok. I had the Chili Mac n cheese, which was even good left over for lunch the next day. Beware: salads are huge. The Cesaer salad was good according to Sarah and your dad. My house salad was huge and good. Meg and Sarah split the lobsterpot and had plenty to eat. Only your dad's food was cold and he did not send it back (I would have). I heard that the South Carolina fried Chicken is excellent. and as always so is the bread. I know they have beer, but don't know what kinds, lots on tap tho and in bottles too. I think your dad had a schell of Bells....."

She had previously said that she thinks that the experience wasn't as good as it should have been because it was a total zoo there and they'd just opened (lack of coordinations between kitchen and servers, etc), and that after it settles down it should probably be really good.


Kyle

[kirkbyky]

My mom sent me these...

Zingerman's Roadhouse
Popular local restaurant offers excellent dining
By Marne Smiley / -
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2003


The apple did not fall far from the tree for a new Ann Arbor restaurant.

Zingerman's community of businesses still gets high marks for quality of food and service, especially with the new addition to the family, Zingerman's Roadhouse, located at 2501 Jackson Rd. in Ann Arbor. The Roadhouse has been a work in progress since its owners began converting a retired Bill Knapp's last year, and it has been busy since its opening night on Sept. 15.

Upon entering, it is apparent that Zingerman's has built a name for itself. There are people crowded into every corner awaiting a table. Unfortunately, this causes some slight confusion as to where a seating request can be made and hinders the staff in making an appropriate greeting. However, the setting is great for any occasion, casual or formal, and, like its food, presents itself with class and a modern vibe. The patio also is great place to dine and can to accommodate up to 90 people, the same as inside dining.

While the greeting was lacking, all other services were a call above the rest.

The glasses of water on the tables never dropped below the halfway mark, and fresh bread was brought out without the customer having to ask. The staff was excited and eager to ensure that all patrons had the best experience.

If indecisiveness grips you every time you have to pick your meal, have no fear here. The waiter will bring out a platter of requested samples including chili, cheeses and slivers of Zingerman's BBQ beef brisket. The receipt is delivered in a whiskey glass for a final touch of class.

Zingerman's Roadhouse presents a well-blended menu of everyday American cuisine with a unique twist. Each table is adorned with the Zingerman Delicatessen's own bread including sourdough and three-rye bread made especially for the Roadhouse.

All meat is of the highest quality. It comes from an organic farm, and the beef for burgers is ground fresh twice a day. The dry-aged niman ranch sirloin steak has potential to be one of the best steaks in town. It is complemented with a healthy serving of Yukon mashed potatoes and fresh spinach.

One of the best and most surprising items on the menu is American favorite macaroni and cheese. Goat cheese and four-year aged cheese are Zingerman's twists to the American staple. The beef chuck chili is another example of how using the best ingredients available can turn a dish from good to great.

The bar carries an extensive amount of drinks and locally brewed beers, and the wine selection was created for any price range and taste. Bottles are from all regions of the world, ranging in price from the mid-teens to nearly $300.

If alcohol isn't your thing, there are many non-alcoholic choices. Zingerman's Roadhouse offers specialty drinks including freshly squeezed juices, smoothies and floats made with gelato. The vanilla egg cream shake is a $5, but it's worth every penny.

Zingerman's Roadhouse has the best food and best service that can be found in the area. The menu changes frequently and offers subtle differences throughout the year, and the generous portions make a doggie bag a must. The busy, first-class atmosphere is almost as pleasing as the fine meals. Zingerman's Roadhouse truly does live up to its slogan of "really good American food."

AND...

September 19, 2003
roadhouse blues
All summer I've been driving past the old Bill Knapp's on Stadium, watching the transformation. Major construction, a new paint job, a new sign and now it's finally open: Zingerman's Roadhouse. For the uninitiated, Zingerman's is a deli, but a deli which nearly perfectly embodies the over-educated elitism of Ann Arborites. They bake bread, they sell imported cheese, they make $10 sandwiches which are, in truth, worth the price. They are an Ann Arbor icon and their plan to open a sit-down restaurant has been the local buzz all summer.

I had lunch there last Thursday, with a group of women from AWC for 'third thursday lunch.' They had opened just a couple days earlier and already had a 25 minute wait for lunch. Luckily, Mary had made a reservation for us. The place is good looking, as you would expect, and all traces of Bill Knapp's have been erased. Lots of modern wood, but definitely not lame, tired, 90's Starbucks wood. We were seated at a long table with benches. Yes, benches. Hard wooden backless ones. Not for the tired or middle-aged. All the wood does nothing to dampen sound, so the place is also not for those trying to converse with people at the other end of the table. (This may be on purpose. I hear tell that they plan to seat small unrelated parties together at these bench style tables.)

The food was, as expected, expensive. $12 po'boys (oh, the irony). $19 pot roast. $11 macaroni and cheese. The whole idea is that this is American roadhouse food, the kind you'd have been served at some little place on Route 66 or somesuch. So there's burgers and biscuits & gravy and chili and fried green tomatoes and so on. All at Zingerman's prices.

It was, also as expected, very good. I had some fried perch and french fries, the latter of which were particularly tasty. Coleslaw was a waste; far too sweet. The rest at the table seemed to enjoy their meals, at least the ones who got the correct order. Out of seven of us, 2 were wrong: one salad only remotely resembled the description on the menu (missing several key ingredients) and macaroni-and-goat-cheese-and-ham was substituted for an order of plain mac and cheese. The salad was deemed 'no charge' by management, but the incorrect mac and cheese was boxed up and paid for. (They offered to bring the correct dish, but this particular diner was in a hurry and couldn't wait for it.)

All in all, even making allowances for the kitchen staff and servers being new (I fully expect the Zing pros to straighten out all the kinks), dollar for dollar, I'd rather buy a sandwich from Zingerman's Deli than eat at the Roadhouse.

Posted by Mitten at September 19, 2003 02:01 PM

Comments
Ach, just as bad as the one I linked to. I, too, expect them to perfect their service sooner or later.

Posted by: andy at September 23, 2003 02:11 AM
My wife and I looked forward to the arrival of Zingerman's Roadhouse ever since the sign announcing its opening first appeared on Jackson Road. After stopping by on a couple of previous occasions only to find waits that numbered in the hours, we were able to manage for lunch today, only having to wait about fifteen minutes.

My biscuits and gravy were as described in the menu and were tasty good. My wife's fried grits were, however, misrepresented. The Vermont cheeze that was reported to be part of the presentation was nowhere to be found, and if somehow infused in the grits, their taste was totally masked by a pepper sauce that bordered on being too hot for consumption (at least for our taste), and no where in the menu did it refer to this as a spicey dish. We informed our waitress who apologized, though with no offer to substitute anything else as would most other restaurants of similar venue.

The check arrived, and with taxes and tip we paid $40 for two vegetable dumplings, two small squares of grits, and two glasses of water. With nonalcoholic drinks and desert we would have easily paid over $60. Keep in mind, we're talking lunch!

All things said, we will not be recommending Zingerman's Roadhouse to our friends. We would much rather have had two sandwiches at the original Zingerman's for half the price (now there's a bargain?). There are many other places in Ann Arbor with food as good and prices that are more reasonable.

Posted by: Richard L. Weiss at October 5, 2003 12:03 AM
I have eaten at the Deli/NextDoor since I wrote my review of the Roadhouse here, and it really confirmed my feelings about the place.

One of the reasons I can quantify is service. When I go to the Deli/NextDoor, the staff are completely great, bending over backwards to be accomodating and proactively helpful. (I'm thinking of one staffer who offered to put the sandwich my sons were going to share into two baskets, even though I didn't think to ask for that, for example.) Plus, the sandwiches are huge and tasty and on the rare occasions they make a mistake, they fix it immediately.

The Deli set the bar high in terms of service and quality expectations at the Roadhouse, and while the service and food there is good, it's not up to the level I've come to expect from Zingerman's. When I'm paying $12 for a deli sandwich, I expect it to be perfect and I expect the service to help justify the high price, and at the Deli, that happens. At the Roadhouse, the food was only good, not perfect, and the service didn't really help to make the high price justifiable.

I do hope they can pull this all together and work out their service and quality and pricing issues. In fact, I honestly expect that they will. It's Zingerman's, afterall!

Posted by: Laura at October 8, 2003 09:06 AM

Also a link for an A2 eatery:

http://www.damatos.com/menu.htm

Kyle

[badunnin]

I'm not particularly convinced by the reviews of the Roadhouse. My vote stands for Grizzly Peak. I know they can accomodate large parties, as a friend of mine got engaged there and later had her rehearsal dinner there.

[cangoss]

One more idea would be to go to the Deli for dinner Saturday night. If we're going for breakfast on Sunday, the out-of-towners won't have a chance to try one of the famous sandwiches.

I am going to the Roadhouse with a group Thursday night. I'll report back and let ya'all know how it is. I've heard people say that it's gotten better since they've ironed out the kinks in the last couple of weeks. We drove by there Friday night and the smells coming from the outdoor grills/smokers were divine!

[SooCookie]

I thought this was happening the beginning of October, so here I am ignoring this thread, when I finally look at the date it is planned for... can I come too??????? If I am invited...

Michelle

[Sarah]

Okay....I'm reading all of this, and for the record, I don't have an opinion because I really don't know the places involved, and the lines and such.

BFWIW, it might be nice to see something other than just Zingerman's. I'm not too picky. So long as it's not over the top expensive, I'm sure I'll find something that I like. Grizzly Peak is fine by me.

Just give me a time, and me and my wallet will be there :D :D :D

[JenniferJJ]

This sounds like fun. Please count me in. I would be available Saturday afternoon and evening and Sunday after 12:30p.m. I won't stay in a hotel since I live only 30 minutes east of Ann Arbor. I have no preference regarding the restaurants.

[badunnin]

Originally posted by SooCookie
I thought this was happening the beginning of October, so here I am ignoring this thread, when I finally look at the date it is planned for... can I come too??????? If I am invited...

Michelle

Woohoo!!!!! Of course!

[SandyM]

Hi Michelle,

Glad to hear you can make it!!

Okay everyone - I took the proverbial bull by the horns and I made reservations at Grizzly Peak for 6:00 pm on Saturday, November 1st under the name Miller. It's earlier than I originally wanted, but it's the best they could do for such a large crowd (15 people is what I counted).

If there aren't any objections, lets stick with this plan. However, since this is an open forum, if you do have strong objections, please feel free to state them. Gently. ;) :D

[badunnin]

THANKS SANDY FOR DOING SUCH A TREMENDOUS JOB WITH ALL THIS!!!

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by SandyM I made reservations at Grizzly Peak for 6:00 pm on Saturday, November 1st under the name Miller.

6:00 PM, Saturday, November 1st at Grizzly Peak - I'll be there!!

As soon as I figure out where it is;) :D ;)

Sandy, thanks so much for all of your work on this!

Cheryl

[phantomcg]

Originally posted by SooCookie
can I come too??????? If I am invited... Michelle

Of course you are invited, Michelle!

Cheryl