W.Douglas Verkaaik

The Gathering offers great food, magic shows

Nineteen years of serving the same neighborhood consistent and tasty American face, providing a friendly bar, and adding a “unique flair” has combined to made Dan Thomas’ Mission Hills restaurant a big time local favorite. Along with innovative entrees for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant’s added attractions are the magic shows performed at your table by certified magicians such as Craig Stone, Tom McCarthy and Michel David. They will wow you and your guests (great for families gathering and parties) with a variety of tricks starting at about 6:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday nights.

The bar also has something “unique” on Friday nights, namely the Fireman’s special. Every time a fire truck goes by with its siren on (and it happens quite frequently since the station is nearby) drinks from the bar are half price for two minutes. A huge cheer erupts when the bar is full and a truck wails by. Some customers even come running back in from outside.

The menu here is noteworthy for its creative approach. For dinner you’ll find new items such as the Jumbo Scallops appetizer (with garlic, olive oil, basil, wine and sun dried tomatoes). For an entree try the Cajun chicken Fettuccine (nice and spicy with a creamy Alfredo sauce, chicken salsa and cilantro). One of the very popular items for dinner is the Coconut Shrimp with mango chutney; or, if you are in the mood for a great steak, enjoys the bone in New York steak with roast garlic and blue cheese. The evening menu also has salmon, meatloaf, a Greek Quesadilla, pork chops, pecan chicken, fish and chips and more.

In the morning The Gathering is one of the most popular breakfast spots around. Folks come for the Country Sausage Frittata (superb with the addition of parmesan cheese, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes), Pork Chops & Eggs, Meat Loaf and eggs, the Egg Beater omelet (with mushrooms and spinach) and the Greek omelet. For lunch, try a big meal salad or the blue cheese burger. At The Gathering it is OK to bring in your Starbuck’s coffee in the morning if you buy breakfast or at night to bring food from Phil’s BBQ, as long as you buy drinks in the bar. How cool is that? Find the place at 902 W.Washington St. (at Goldfinch). Call (619) 260-0400.