Most restaurant industry hounds don’t go in for Valentine’s Day that
much: it seems that you are either working, or you are attached to
someone who’s working. It’s a big night for the restos in town, albeit
laden with deuces or giant groups and not much in between. This Fresh
Forkin’ Friday, I’m doing what I always do, planning a food movie night (most likely Eat Drink Man Woman) along with take-out
(I wish we had a ramen house).

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OPENS

Cocoa & Fig is open in the skyway, did you see my sneak peak?

Colette Bar & Bistro had replaced the former Chez Colette in the Sofitel. There’s new new modern look, and WIFI-wonk appeal, but the menu has remained the same, including the comforting cassoulet, the paella for two, and the signature French onion soup.

Crave changed its website to craveamerica.com, which usually is a harbinger for expansion into other markets. BINGO: Orlando and Omaha have been deemed Crave-worthy.

GONE TO SEA

If you’re a fan of Deadliest Catch, you know that Captain Phil Harris of the Cornelia Marie passed away recently. Local fish guru Wade Wiestling of the Oceanaire spent time on his boat and remembers him well.

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Looking for a Man vs. Food moment? Saigon Restaurant on University has a pho challenge for you. Just finish 10 pounds of pho in less than 45 minutes and get fame, a free meal, and a T-shirt that reads “I AM THE PHO-KING”. C’mon ladies, rumor has it there have been no female winners yet.

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Gastro Non Grata 13 – Leftover Love is happening on February 28th at the Triple Rock. Doug Flicker from Piccolo will keep it small and tasty, boys from Left Hand Brewing will represent the libations, and Sheela of the upcoming Cake-Eater Bakery will be there with cupcakes. Plus, lotsa loud music and dead meat door prizes from Clancey’s.

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National Props! First I heard that our own Andrew Zimmern is going to be a guest on Top Chef Masters! Then I found out that Stub & Herb’s was loved up by Beer Advocate, voted 12th overall and tops in the Midwest for Best Place to Have a Pint. We loves us some attention.

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More beer to get us through the doldrums. McCoy’s is hosting a brewmaster’s beer dinner on Tuesday Feb. 16th. The five course Belgian dinner is $35, with limited space, and pairings like Tripel Karameliete with artisan sausage, leeks, and stewed lentils. … And check out the Surly Four release party at the Blue Nile on Feb. 23rd.