We had the pleasure of going to the Shanty Grille twice this summer. And both times were wonderful. I was hoping for that because we were always regular customers of the Crab Shanty for decades. We had one bad experience when they first changed and it caused us to take a break for a while. And to be fair it was near the opening months.

Anyway on both times this summer, we have come early where the dining room wasn’t open yet (5pm I believe). And that is not a problem for me at all because the bar and booths are wonderful. Very comfortable and good views of TV’s and the great looking bar.

The service was great both times. Fast, friendly, seemed to check with us as soon as that thought entered my head, had refills without asking. Knowledgeable of the menu and made some good suggestions. And the food both times was great. We always did appetizers, entrees and or small plates and deserts. Each was wonderful for both parties. Very fresh, perfectly cooked, well spiced and generous portions. I know we will be giving the dining room a try again this winter. Think I’ll take the family.

And the reason I’m likely to keep coming back is because of the generous menu selections. Unique combinations, and a million and one things I like. This has the potential to become one of my regular places again.

Please be careful driving there. That corner off 40 is busy and its a quick turn into a busy and small parking lot. Also with most well established food landmarks in Howard County this one has some older and slower moving clients from time to time, so be patient when they are  making their way to dinner. But I’m sure this place also attracts a young crowd also.

I think their upcoming Bourbon and Bacon Dinner is a wonderful idea.

Give them a try. I don’t think you will be disappointed at all.

Last night was we had another great pizza from Ledo Pizza. The one we visited was in Columbia off Oakland Mills Road. There are 4 locations in Howard County as far as I can tell from their locations Map. I usually use the one on Rt 40 Normandy Shopping Center. But we started at the original on University Boulevard in Adelphi. I believe that original restaurant moved a few years back to College Park, but I read they have 100 locations now and are becoming a force in other states.

Everyone’s love of pizza is different. Thick or thin crust. The endless varieties of sauce. The variable of cheese and toppings are endless. But for this guy Ledo pizza is my favorite. Everything comes together and its consistent and its done with a smile and good service. And this is a company that gives back to local communities. Everything I like in a pizza is in theirs. The constancy in the variety of toppings I try with their pizza is tops.

May favorites are the pre cooked bacon. I also go for the sausage and pepperoni. The green pepper, onion, mushroom is fine for those not meat inclined. The Hawaiian pie (sorry pies are round and Ledo pizza is RECTANGULAR). Let me try again. The Hawaiian pan is also a favorite.

To me their ability to franchise and train and maintain the consistency while also doing good things for the communities they are part of, leads me to believe this is a good organization. One I have supported for many decades now and one that will continue to get my business.

Oh, my other half wouldn’t be happy unless I mentioned their salads which are great along with the house dressing. And now that I look over their online menu I see a few things I would like to try so looks like next week they might be getting another visit. That Sweet Baby-Q Chicken one in craft pizzas looks like a winner.

Also wouldn’t be right to not mention the Calzone and Stromboli. The meat lovers are great.

Hope you enjoy your experience if you decide to try. And if your a Facebook junkie, they have contest pretty regularly for various things.

Don’t forget to get gift cards for your pizza lovers.
Photo by Mike Hartley

OK, the launch of another section of Howard County Living as seen ThrewMikesEyez. And it’s FOOD. I love food. I love to eat out and take my family and see them try different things. Food like art is subjective to the person creating/viewing or in this case cooking/eating. So as with all reviews of the arts its subject to personal interpretation.

So were ringing the dinner, lunch and breakfast bells and share the great feast we have in the county.

Photo by Mike Hartley

So today’s establishment is Shannon’s Saloon and Restaurant. I just noticed they are also celebrating their 30th year serving the community. Wow, that takes care of the first item. They have withstood the test of time. And with good cause, they serve good food with great service in a nice homey place. While the bar isn’t the largest and gets crowded at times, the food and drink are tops. We have been there a number of times with many family members and always walk out satisfied.

They have an older clientele but I’m sure these peoples kids know about it. Because I’m sure they talk about it and how much they enjoy it. That might not be entirely true with the bar area but its not your young peoples hangout. Which is fine with this old fart.

I love their cream of crab and french onion soups. The chili is also good. I’ve sampled most of the appetizers except for the wings and wasn’t disappointed. I like their crab cakes. And the shrimp salad I’ve always found to be one of the best around. Nicely spiced (might be too much for some) and nice size and tender shrimp. I’ve tried most of the entries and sandwiches and always have been very satisfied. From seafood to steaks to the liver. Its all good.

Sorry I didn’t take some images of our visit there last week but just came up with the idea to start including reviews of places we have loved to dine. So check out the website, but better yet, go dine there and you won’t be disappointed.