A window view of the Avenue.
Easy Eating
“Avenue” could be the name of a New York boutique, an upscale jewelry store, or a funky flower shop. But in Clayton it’s the name of a charming lunch spot. The Parisian-style exterior faces onto a sidewalk patio with its long row of colorful plants. Happily, a park lot across the street relieves the pressure of finding a place to leave your car.
With all that going for it, Avenue racked up bonus points on my gastronomic scale before I ever stepped through the door.
The relaxed, minimalist decor allows diners themselves to add the vibe.
Lunch Time Leisure
For the lunch bunch, the menu offered the usual noon day fare: soups, salads, sandwich plates and a few entrees. I went with the veggie burger to see how it compared to those I make and freeze for home use. Cyndy ordered the spinach salad proteinized with the fish of the day. (Proteinized. Hmm. . . is that even a word? Well, it is now.)
Spinach salad with tomato, bacon, egg, polenta croutons and Parmesan dressing.
Impossible?
As I returned my menu, I inquired of the server: “Why is it called the “Impossible” Veggie Burger? Because it’s impossible to eat? Or impossible not to eat?” (I later figured out that “Impossible” is the brand name of a highly regarded veggie burger.)
My server smiled and gave me that “you’ll see” look. When the ginormous platter arrived a little flag with the word “Impossible” flew from atop the bun. I tried to convince myself, that the sandwich was half lettuce, tomato, onion and pickles, and, thus, almost a salad. And if I removed the top lid, it would be more manageable to eat with a knife and fork.
I took on the “Impossible” with gusto, before having to admit defeat by flying my flag upside down and leaving part of the sandwich behind. The secret to a good veggie burger is juiciness and this one measures up superbly.
Avenue comes with a staff that cares about service and a kitchen that cares about goodness. A winning combination!
