birthday

the porch

every year, i take my bff out for her birthday. we always try to find something new because we have this habit of going to same spots over and over again any other night. this year, we ended up at The Porch in downtown Sacramento. i've been here a few times for happy hour/drinks, but never had dinner here. so was excited to try it out. we were seated promptly - it seemed pretty quiet, which was nice so that i can have a nice chat with my friend. we were handed a menu (daily menu - printed and bound to wooden boards, pictured below) and some appetizers were dropped off (bread and some sort of spread - both i didn't care too much for - i like doughy bread over crispy toasted bread). anyhow, we ordered drinks and a brie appetizer to start. i wish i remembered the name of the drink, but i don't. it was not too bad, although much sweeter than i expected it to be. i think it was a berry flavored mixed drink, but yeah, anyhow...

Appetizers & Drinks, The Porch
Appetizers & Drinks, The Porch

the brie appetizer was very good - the brie was warmed just right and was served with four big slices of toast and some fruit preserves. we ate our appetizer contently as we waited for the main course. for dinner, i decided to order the fried chicken - i was excited to see what a $21 fried chicken dish would taste like. (yes $21). it also came with mashed potatoes,greens, and a biscuit. my friend ordered the pork tenderloin which was served with roasted brussel sprouts. in short: chicken - good (crispy, large serving, sweet crusted), biscuit - ok (dry, not flaky), mashed potatoes - great (very buttery, creamy), collard greens - great (well seasoned, buttery), pork tenderloin - ok (a bit dry, flavor not very robust), brussel sprouts - great (served with bacon).

Main Course, The Porch
Main Course, The Porch

to top the night off, we ordered apple crisp and peach ice cream to share. it was well presented - the apple crisp was good, although i wish it was heated up a bit more. the peach ice cream tasted home made, not the best i've had, but couldn't complain. overall, we both had a good time and enjoyed our dinner.