Bistro Newsletter

Over the last few weeks Michael and I have visited a few new restaurants and an old favorite. Our first date, many moons ago, was at The Blue Nile in an old bank in Detroit near Greektown. No longer there, it has been transported to Ferndale, I think there is one in Ann Arbor as well. African food is trending, but The Blue Nile has been around over 30 years. Upon entering you will see lots of Ethiopian artifacts and mesobs, small round tables. Ethiopian food is served to share, “Gursha Style”. We always order the Vegetarian Feast, little piles of stewed greens, lentils, potatoes, cabbage, salad and more served on Injera “Bread”. You eat with your hands using the Injera as a spoon. The food is comforting and we love the style in which it is served. On this last visit we met the owner on our way out and he told us the history of the restaurant and many other stories. His wife was our server and had already given us a lesson on the art in the room. Super warm people and we enjoyed reminiscing about our first date so long ago.

Fairly new to Royal Oak, Bella Limone opened in the old Pinky’s rooftop space. This corner has been dubbed cursed as many restaurants have turned over in this location… nothing seems to stick. Not sure if it is the location, parking or just bad ideas/food/service in the past. Our recent visit we had a friendly server, decent Italian food and a good well priced bottle of wine. I think with more time under their belt they will be a nice addition to downtown Royal Oak. We will return. On a side note, they are expanding into the lower level with a pizzeria. The third pizza joint in Royal Oak. Downtown seems to run in waves… Ramen shops one year, multiple burger joints, tacos another year and now … well, I guess pizza is trendy?​

My favorite recent meal was the one we prepared at home ourselves, a giant pot of clams in spicy Asian broth. It’s not too bad to cook at home when you only dirty one pot.

Cheers,
Sharon

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