Eat. Love. Laugh. (Part 1)

Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone! We hope that you’re spreading the love out there. Don’t be one of those bah-humbugs who are calling it Singles Awareness Day. Valentine’s Day isn’t just for lovers. It can either be romantic or filial, personal or collective, carnal or spiritual. Whatever the reason may be, Love is in the air. Notice that people are more tolerable and nicer than usual? The ripple effects of this particular day is global. It’s sad that it’s only on this day that some of us show affection. But it’s better than never. So stop ruining the party and embrace it with everyone.

Since Valentine’s Day is on a Monday this year, we decided to make it into a all-weekend long event. We’re not really sure if we should call it “celebrating” because we’re not really doing anything different than the usual.

Feb. 11th, Friday — We headed up north to Morgantown, WV. Schedule: Morgantown Brewing Co. and Lavender Cafe.

Morgantown Brewing Co‘s sample platter included: 80 Shilling Scotch Ale, Alpha Blonde Ale, Anderson’s Kettle Bottom Brown Ale, Coal City Stout, Old Morgantown Amber Ale, Two Weeks Lager, and Zack Morgan’s Pale Ale. Pictured above from L-R: Adam with the Alpha Blonde, Coal City Stout, Steph with the Kettle Bottom.

Brewmaster Brian Anderson was supposed to meet with us. He was feeling a little bit under the weather when we last talked to him, of which we are sticking to as his excuse in not making it to our arranged engagement. Shit happens, whatever. We were informed that he was coming back for us. Still, after 2 hours, a no-show. Thanks for texting/emailing us back.

Adam, having been drawn to IPAs, consumes his first glass of MBC’s Zack Morgan Pale Ale.

Fish and Chips: Two Redhook Ale battered tilapia served over a basket of brew fries with tartar and coleslaw. A must-try when you visit MBC.

For dinner, we met up with some friends and headed to Lavender Cafe. Although Yelp categorizes it as a Taiwanese restaurant, the menu offers a wide mix between Taiwanese, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Singapore, Mongolian, and American-Chinese. It was dynamic, to say the least. It was loud, like any other Asian, hole-in-the-wall joint. It’s like eating along the streets of middle Hong Kong.

We had the Curry Beef and the Singapore Rice Noodles. Curry beef was a little bland but with a little sprinkle of salt or fish sauce, you are set. On the other hand, the Singapore rice noodles were definitely savory. You can taste the ginger, curry and chili that gives it a little extra kick. It was authentic.

Feb. 12th, Saturday — We woke up later than planned but we managed to make it to The Golden Finch for a late lunch. We were advised by fellow Yelpers to try the famous Roasted Garlic Soup. And so, we did.

The Roasted Garlic Soup is The Golden Finch‘s version of the French onion soup. A slice of homemade baguette topped with a poached egg and baked Asiago cheese share the bowl with the indescribably amazing garlic broth. Verdict: Mouth-orgasmic and Righteous.

Mussels with Andouille Sausage – made with Prince Edward Island mussels simmered in white wine garlic sauce with fennel, onions, andouille sausage and fresh herbs. It is topped with a couple of slices of their homemade baguette. The mussels were cooked to perfection and the sausage was rich, spicy, and smoky.

Cajun Sandwich – Blackened chicken and andouille sausage with white cheddar cheese, tomato, baby greens and lemon herb aoli served on Ciabatta bread. On the side, a serving of their beer battered fries. Juicy and fresh. If you have the extra room, also try their sweet potato fries. They are to die for. Service could have been better though. Our server kept complaining about her day. It was a little annoying.

For dinner, our friends took us to a spot called Texas Roadhouse. With the WVU game being at home this past weekend, we were lucky to get a table within an hour. Dinner was great. We had the Grilled Pork Chops and the 11-ounce Sirloin. Their servings were generous and like any other American chain steakhouse, it was loud and the atmosphere was perfect for the night we were about to have.

The Vintage Room is definitely our go-to bar in Morgantown. They have an extensive wine selection, an exquisite variety of cigars, and an ambiance that’s not your typical West Virginia. The drinks for the night consisted of Jack Daniels on the rocks and a bottle of Volteo Tempranillo from Spain. You bet it was a looong night.

After a few drinks, we decided to get some late night food. And what better place to check out but Sandwich University on Walnut St. Home of the famous Fat Sandwich, SandwichU is rated in the Top 4 Best Bites: College Edition by Good Morning America.

The Fat Filipino; Oh yes, we did.

Feb. 13th, Sunday — After a long night of fun in Morgantown, we needed something to soak up all of the previous night’s consumed alcohol. We were taken to Maxwell’s by our friends who assured us that the brunch menu is amazing. As we walked in, the main entrance lead us to an underground dining area where it was maybe 15 tables packed. The place smelled divine, always an excellent sign that you’re at the right spot. We started brunch with some water, orange juice, and a cup of their freshly brewed Mackinac Island Fudge coffee. The rest is history.

The Chili Omelette

The famous Maxwell’s Eggs Benedict

Everyone loved their food. Maxwell’s will most definitely going to be a staple in our Morgantown visits in the future. Something about the ambiance of the place screams sincerity and love for good food. The lady who was serving us made us feel welcomed and at home. Service was great as well.