At Mick's, ‘new' is the operative word
The "new" in Mick's New American Bistro, translates into unique, attention commanding and creative cuisine.
Frederick's latest dining attraction, located at the former site of Jennifer's, is owned by Mick Strine. His son James is the executive chef.
James and his family returned to the area recently. He is committed to offering Frederick diners flavorful and distinctive meals, which is his passion.
We met friends at the bistro one recent evening and found the restaurant's complete renovation most pleasing.
Behind the scenes, the kitchen has been completely remodeled. Maroon and beige highlight the décor. Attractive flower arrangements stand out against the lighter walls and shelves adorned with books and pottery are eye-catching. Lovely table presentations are composed of Maroon print damask atop white cloths.
Offered our choice of tables, we selected one at the back by the gas fireplace — a most cozy place to enjoy our repast.
Our server David was gracious, helpful, and most of all fun as we carefully listened to his list of specials, and his suggestions for our meal.
David noted that the clam chowder is homemade and "the best in the area." Three in our party discovered he was right on target, as the chowder was delicious, and almost a meal itself, with healthy large pieces of clam and potato chunks.
However, we did not stop there. My husband was intrigued by the meatloaf muffins. Two individual portions were nestled in the center of smashed potatoes, haricot verts (or as David explained, "A fancy name for green beans") and cherry tomatoes basted with butter and rich in flavor.
My Dorsey's pork chop was topped with diced sautéed apple cubes and accompanied by smoked mac-n-cheese. On David's suggestion, I went for carbohydrate overload and substituted smashed potatoes for veggies. The pork chop was so large I had to ask my husband for help. Everything was delicious.
Our lady friend found her crispy chicken wrap almost too pretty to eat. The wrap proved as luscious as it was attractive, the Maytag blue cheese and mayo combination adding just the right amount of zip.
I've known a few creeps over the years, but never a Memphis Creep. Our gentleman friend was more than pleased with this creation — a wrap filled with chili, cheese and macaroni.
Other highlights included a low country po' boy of fried oysters, lettuce, tomato and Cajun remoulade and a fish shack Sammy sandwich with grilled Mahi, tartar and pickles.
For something a bit different, you might opt for the scallops-n-grits with tomato infused grits and andoullie gravy, or a "chicken" roasted chicken with Dorsey's country sausage gravy, smashed potatoes and stewed green beans.
While most items are standards, menu selections are added or deleted depending on availability. Specials are offered on a daily basis.
Sweets include a fruit crisp, bread pudding with whiskey sauce, and a brownie ice cream sundae. Almost too much to resist, but we somehow managed.
We have paid more at lesser restaurants, but have never left as satisfied as we did when we exited Mick's New American Bistro.
Frederick is fortunate to have this comfortable restaurant orchestrating inventive meals.
Mick's New American Bistro
207 W. Patrick St.
Frederick
301-662-0373
11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday
Bar open until 11 p.m.
Visa and MasterCard
Handicapped Accessible
Appetizers/salads/soups: $4-$11
Sandwiches: $7-$16
Light plates: $11-$19
Main entrees: $17-$33
Copyright © Post-Newsweek Media, Inc./Gazette.Net