Shucking n Grooving At The Capitol Oyster Bar – Montgomery Alabama

I head down Shady Lane to 617 Shady Lane. Every fun story should have a shady Lane, right?

Ginny Lane Bar & Grill 100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die

I have said this before, I was not looking forward to eating grits, again. This dish had me at Gulf Shrimp, cheddar and chardonnay cream sauce. #WOW #YUM #KABAM

Going Bananas for Fish-Cosmo’s Courtyard 100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die

Unwrapped that fish like it was a Christmas present.

Never Been Earwormed by Kow-liga before? 100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die

Tasty Tuesday-My #42 try or #61 on the countdown.

After my first visit to the Kowaliga Restaurant to try The Fried Alabama Shrimp Platter, my curiosity got the best of me and I needed to figure out what Gulf Shrimp, Hank Williams and a lonely wooden statue had in common?

The Kowaliga Restaurant is near Alexander City on the beautiful Lake Martin. Technically, the lake is made from a reservoir and is 44,000-acre lake with 900 acres of shoreline. This is a popular area for weekend homes (some multi-million), outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers alike.

Wind Creek Stat Park-view from the tower

I visited in the evening just after the New Year, when the restaurant was dressed up for the holidays.  The restaurant sits on a lakefront peninsula with two dining rooms and wonderful outdoor seating areas, all offering picturesque views of the lake.

The Gulf Shrimp Platter is served with your choice of one side dish.  I chose the coleslaw and my Mother had salad.

I left this photo large so that you might get an idea of shrimp size. The coleslaw was super tasty and check out these warm hushpuppies.  Large and juicy gulf shrimp is delivered every three days to this restaurant. It is fried from simple ingredients of; cornmeal, flour, buttermilk and is said to have just the right amount of salt and pepper.   Always served with fresh warm hushpuppies and your choice of one side.

MEGastars ****4 I am going to give this dish a 4 star.  It is a simple platter,  yet taken up a notch with these perfect Gulf Shrimp.  If you follow my blog, you know that I am a new convert to Gulf Shrimp.  I love the taste!  These shrimp were large enough to taste, (I LOVE that) yet the batter seasoning was not overpowering, and the shrimp sauce was perfect.  Alabama food made with Alabama pride.  I couldn’t find the Kowliga recipe for coleslaw, but it had a little kick to it. Trust me, it was really tasty and crisp.

Other food tried at my table. Check out these ribs, onion rings and Caesar salad! NUM

Holy onion rings!

 

What I learned from this visit.

1. Kowliga is pronounced kaw-ly-jə
2. Currently owned by Russell Lands Corporation. (you may have heard of Russell Athletic wear.) This company has taken time to cultivate this area into a top notch Southern destination. Although it is a business, these people seem to truly care about their product. Every aspect for the visitor experience is top notch, from the landscaping to top chefs and clean fresh décor.
3. This restaurant has been in operation since 1953, built as a cabin in 1946, and rebuilt after a fire as a tribute to Hank Williams and his music.  You will find interesting photos and memorabilia on the walls. 
4. Legendary country singer Hank Williams wrote a song called “Kow-liga” at his Lake Martin cabin in 1952. In 1953, this song went to the top of the charts.
5. Legend has it that Kowaliga was a Creek Native American man, who once lived on Lake Martin. He fell deeply in love with a beautiful maiden and asked her to marry him. However, her father had already promised her to another. She had to leave, never to be seen again. Heartbroken, Kowaliga swore to stand on the edge of this lake and wait faithfully for her return. He stood on that lakeshore so long that his feet finally took root and he turned to wood.  Sad. Arranged marriages suck. 
6. An earworm is defined as: a catchy song or tune that runs continually through a person’s mind. I always thought the word for this state of mind was “jazzbound” and yet I couldn’t find this word in a dictionary. Who knew?

MEGatips:

1. Bring a friend for that shrimp platter and also try the catfish taco, it was named the “tastiest taco” in Alabama by The Food Network.
2. The website link will tell you everything that you need to know before your visit.  For hours, location and menus click here. Kowaliga
3. Prepare to get earwormed.  Check out the song  Kowliga on You Tube

•  Hank Williams Kow-liga
• Johnny Cash and hank Williams Jr. get it done Cash and Williams Jr. sing Kow-liga
• Charley Pride version.  This seems to be the one that I remember most from my mother’s ole AM kitchen radio. Charley Pride

4. You too can visit Hank Williams grave and other sites in Montgomery, Alabama.

This MEGabites and MEGastars description is found at the bottom of each post of 100 Dishes. If you are new to my 100 Dishes in Alabama escapade, this may be helpful.  *100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die is a compilation of food to chow down on Bama style. Thanks to Tourism Alabama, www.alabama.travel my Alabama bucket list just became a little easier. I am going to have some fun while making my way like Ms. Pacman, in yet another state that I call home.  You too may pick up the brochure at Alabama Tourism stops or download the alphabetical brochure that begins in Abbeville and ends in York. From the little old diner to the white cloth joint, it is an opportunity to explore and experience pride in the food from restaurateurs who are dedicated to local food with some Alabama style. From the local BBQ cook to James Beard recipients, you too will take a culinary trip across scenic and historical Alabama. From this list, I select visits based on convenience of location and they are in no particular order. I already have a few favorites and perhaps when I finish this list, I will rank my favorite dishes.

I use a 5 MEGastar system. I am not a paid food critic, just Meg, a curious traveler, with an interest in trying different foods, finding the story and sharing my two cents on these experiences. I try to follow my star system so that I may be fair to the wonderful dishes on this list.

• *meh food. Just wasn’t good. Maybe the food came from a can. The place was not one that I would want to send someone to show pride in Alabama.   This has happened to me a few times and it is a difficult write.
• ** passable – the food was ok and above happened but the place or vice versa
• *** good but not outstanding or unique
• **** Very tasty dish AND meets one of the definitions set forth by Alabama Foods/Tourism, of local food and/OR highlights Alabama Pride.
• ***** I actually died, went to heaven and came back when I ate the dish. OR, something is very unique, something you cannot get anywhere else.

2015 Best,Weirdest & Coolest MEGabites

priesterscakepamphlet
This dish is going into my surprised me category. Super tasty!
Nude Oyster’s at Wintzell's in Mobile, Alabama. OK My husband still disagrees on me giving them a 5 because they are a chain. I loved a few dishes from their menu that were Alabama. (Name these instead)
Sweet Potato Casserole at Martin's in Montgomery, Alabama. This was so delicious. I don't really like sweet potato casserole but it tasted like pie. YUM!
4-Best Party/Drinks

Ummmm that beer brewed by Paulauner special for the season out of the barrel at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. How will I top this in 2016 or like EVER?
Peach Sangria in Savannah, Georgia-In season, this concoction is made with fresh Georgia peaches. It is an open container city. Nothing like walking around on a steamy Savannah summer evening, listening to tunes while sipping this darling.
Visiting Jim Beam on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. There was also some good pulled pork in a beautiful setting.
Bourbon Street, New Orleans. Ihad a few interesting visits this past year. Party on Wayne!
Broadway Street in Nashville, Tennessee. Although I have visited this fine city on many occasions, this was my first night visit to this street. (Can you say kids are all grown up.) Had a blast listening to many different styles of music. I am excited to return.
3 - Weird/Interesting/Learn Stuff

Eating crawfish boil at Mulletfest in Orange Beach,Alabama. What is this you ask? I participated in this event where one stands in a circle and throws a mullet fish (so not hair-sorry) from a circle in Florida, across a state line into Alabama. People come from many places in the U.S. and the world. There are bands and a big party all weekend. I took 17th place in my age category. Interesting trip.
Pizza cone in New, Orleans, Louisiana. It's not a bad idea but Ragu in crust. Meh.
I ate white BBQ sauce at Big Bob Gibsons Bar-B-Que in Decautur, Alabama. Interesting. Yep, popped that cherry.

From playing “100 Dishes in Alabama Before You Die” to chowing down on the top of a mountain overlooking __countries, this has been a year that will be a challenge to top. Certainly, I expanded my horizon. I gained interesting insight into my own tastes. I tried dishes that I would never have tried without an introduction. I hope to inspire you t have fun trying new foods and food experiences. Eat on and stay healthy! Find Peace through food and friends.

A Bright Star Shines On-100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die

A late Tasty Tuesday post. Megabite # 37 or 65 on my countdown.  The Broiled Seafood Platter at Alabama’s oldest restaurant, The Bright Star Inn.

About 35 minutes or 21 miles from Birmingham I arrived in Bessemer, Alabama. I learned that this city is named the “Marvel City” for the rapid growth it once saw as a steel boomtown. Having seen steel and mining business thrive and disappear, this Bright Star has shone since 1907.

Not just any restaurant, The Bright Star is a historic Alabama landmark designated as Alabama’s oldest restaurant.  Since 1925, the Greek/Greek-American Koikos family has owned this restaurant and it is said that they pride themselves with an emphasis on outstanding service and superior cuisine.

From a 25 seater to 330 seat restaurant, something continues to be done very very well here.

The back side of this sign -Alabama’s Oldest Restaurant

Serving surf and turf in a classic environment. Love historic preservation.

Classic tile

Murals hand painted by a European Artist

I also found several Greek dishes, which were very tempting but I was into playing my 100.  I ordered the broiled seafood platter,  a sample plate of customer seafood favorites: broiled snapper with olive oil, fresh lemon juice and oregano. Lobster and crabmeat au gratin made with parmesan cheese, a roux of butter and flour, whole milk, sherry, eggs, white pepper and paprika. Shrimp, oysters, scallops with drawn butter on the side.

YUM!

Take a closer look

Other food that I tasted.

coconut cream pie

A real Greek salad has anchovies, or so they say.

Veal parmesan with spaghetti

Here are a few interesting things that I learned with my visit.

• I learned that fresh seafood shipped from the Gulf Coast directly to this restaurant on a daily basis and that there is a fish processor on site, who for 33 years has ensured the consistency of the fish. Outstanding. I love my Gulf seafood!

 

• In 2010, The Bright Star and Mr’s Jimmy and Nicky Koikos were awarded The James Beard Foundation Awards of Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America. That’s is like a rock star getting a Grammy Award.
• A few other other accolades line the walls; named as top three restaurants in Birmingham by Birmingham News readers choice, Voted as having the best steak in Alabama by The Cattleman’s Association, recognized by CNN.com as one of America’s best historic restaurants. Fried Red Snapper Throats (what even is this?) 100 Dishes to Eat Before You Die by Gun and Garden magazine.  And there are more.
• Although there are so many prestigious awards, It is said that one of the two owners will be on the premises overseeing the staff of 90. Among the 90, many are long term employees ,with average of about 7 years. That is something to be very proud of.  I would love to work there myself!

MEGastars **** 4

Seriously, I am now Gulf seafood lover/convert, huge fan! For a very tasty seafood platter, served with Alabama pride and Alabama food in Alabama’s oldest restaurant. Right on!

MEGatips:

1. Snoop around a bit.  I did. The restaurant is loaded with great photos, awards, magazine articles.
2. Alabama Fan? Check out the football shrine. Badger fan/Packer fan-totally respect tradition. 
3. Interested in historical preservation.  The restaurant has many interesting nods to the former days.  Such as, signs depicting the types of marble, classic ceiling fans, awesome tile and the mirrors.
4. There is a full bar on premise.
5. There are interesting dining alcoves and rooms for groups. 
6. Of course, try this dish.  Bring a friend. I regret not trying theRed Snapper Throats picked by Gun and Garden Magazine. 

   This MEGabites and MEGastars description is found at the bottom of each post. If you are new to my 100 Dishes in Alabama escapade, this may be helpful.  *100 Dishes to eat in Alabama before you die is a compilation of food to chow down on Bama style. Thanks to Tourism Alabama, www.alabama.travel my Alabama bucket list just became a little easier. I am going to have some fun while making my way like Ms. Pacman, in yet another state that I call home.   You too may pick up the brochure at Alabama Tourism stops or download the alphabetical brochure that begins in Abbeville and ends in York. From the little old diner to the white cloth joint, it is an opportunity to explore and experience pride in the food from restaurateurs who are dedicated to local food with some Alabama style. From the local BBQ cook to James Beard recipients, you too will take a culinary trip across scenic and historical Alabama. From this list, I select visits based on convenience of location and they are in no particular order. I already have a few favorites and perhaps when I finish this list, I will rank my favorite dishes.

   I use a 5 MEGastar system. I am not a food critic, just Meg, a curious traveler, with an interest in trying different foods and sharing my two cents on my experience. I try to follow my star system so that I may be fair to the wonderful dishes on this list.

   • *meh food. Just wasn’t good. Maybe the food came from a can. The place was not one that I would want to send someone to show pride in Alabama.   This has happened to me a few times and it is a difficult write.
   • ** passable – the food was ok and above happened but the place or vice versa
   • *** good but not outstanding or unique
   • **** Very tasty dish AND meets one of the definitions set forth by Alabama Foods/Tourism, of local food and/OR highlights Alabama Pride.
   • ***** I actually died, went to heaven and came back when I ate the dish. OR, something is very unique, something you cannot get anywhere else

 

I Love IT Nude, Shuck On Wintzell’s-100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die-MEGabite #16

Oysters at Wintzell’s, fried, stewed or nude.

MEGabite #16 or #85 on the countdown. See below for a description of “100 Dishes To Eat In Alabama Before You Die”

Living near the Gulf, I eat oysters, a whole lot. I have grown to love them and nude with horseradish make me sizzle. This quote represents-“As I ate the oysters with their strong taste of the sea and their faint metallic taste that the cold white wine washed away, leaving only the sea taste and the succulent texture, and as I drank their cold liquid from each shell and washed it down with the crisp taste of the wine, I lost the empty feeling and began to be happy and to make plans.”
Ernest Hemingway, ‘A Moveable Feast’

Wintzell’s, Mobile, Alabama

Wintzell’s Oyster House was founded in 1938. Serving fresh seafood from the Gulf, this restaurant has won many accolades.  I love the story from the humble beginning to a chain of 11.  The walls are covered  in hundreds of J. Oliver Wintzell’s witty sayings, I think I would have loved this guy.

FUN READ

If you have made up your mind on oyster’s and will not eat them, I won’t change your mind. This quote dares you. –“The man who doesn’t like oysters, the woman who cannot abide sardines. We know the type.”
Harold Nicolson, ‘Food’ (1942)

I suggest trying the oysters with a preparation to your taste. The fried oysters and wood fired oysters with butter are pretty darn yummy.  Wintzell’s has a 75 year old recipe for their batter. The menu offers many ways for oysters to be tried; po-boy’s, gumbo, salads, topped with bacon, cheese, jalapenos, shrimp, crabmeat.  One of these oysters may be your gateway drug.  If not, Wintzell’s has a huge  menu.

I give this place 5 MEGastars *****  (here is my longer than usual explanation.)   I have been to a few different locations and have always had a nice eat and a good sit.  They always have a catch of the day and can make what I order without added salt. I like that a whole lot.  For folks coming in from out of the area, it is a fun stop to try award winning and regional foods such as; fried green tomatoes, cheese grits, gumbo,crawfish etoufee and bread pudding.  Wintzell’s also serves two specialties distinctive of and native to the Mobile area, West Indies Salad—a cold salad consisting of lump crabmeat and onions marinated in an oil and vinegar dressing—and fried crab claws, traditionally served with Wintzell’s signature cocktail sauce. For the last few reasons, I went 5 vs 4 star. In other words, not James Beard but on this varied menu, one may be inspired to try something new and find that Alabama dish that makes you want to die when you eat it.

**GOOD food *Great menu, atmosphere, good service. **Fresh Gulf seafood meeting the criteria of serving Alabama food with pride.   It has been over seventy-five years and Wintzell’s is still shuck’n.  So, shuck on Wintzell’s!

*100 Dishes to eat in Alabama before you die is a compilation of food to chow down on Bama style. Thanks to Tourism Alabama, at www.alabama.travel my Alabama bucket list just became a little easier. I am going to have some fun while making my way like Ms. Pacman, in yet another state that I call home. Download the alphabetical brochure that begins in Abbertville and ends in York. From the little old diner to the white cloth joint, it is an opportunity to explore and experience pride in the food from restaurateurs who are dedicated to local food with some Alabama style. From BBQ to James Beard recipients.  I use a 5 MEGastar system. If I give one of these dishes a 5th star, it means, I nearly died and went to heaven eating the dish, Loved it and don’t you miss it!

MEGatips;

1. For heaven’s sakes, try oysters.
2. Not sure? Try the Oyster Sampler has four each of Oysters Monterrey, Oysters Bienville, Oysters Rockefeller and our famous Chargrilled Oysters. Sixteen in all!
3. Lunch time has a dozen oysters on the halfshell for half price, just sayin!
4. Find your personal favorite quote on the walls.
5. I have had the Fresh Indies Salad on another visit and it is a fun dish to try.