W. Douglas Verkaaik

There’s something magical about The Gathering
 

There’s a bit of the predictable, as in tasty hearty portions of seafood, steak, chicken and pasta. Then there’s the unpredictable, as in all the whimsical, entertaining nuances that are the hallmark of this fabulous neighborhood restaurant in Mission Hills.

For instance, when a fire truck drives by, with sirens blaring, all drinks from the bar, including martini’s, are half price. And the there are the amazing magic tricks performed by owner/magician Dan Thomas at your table, and the live weekend music. Recently this spot was featured in a local magazine as one of 25 places to go for “Cheap Eats,” highlighting the lamb chops with mint jelly, potatoes and fresh vegetables for $14.99. But don’t let the word “cheap” mislead you: the food is top notch and comes in generous portions.

Aside from the delicious lamb chops, other dinner highlights are the crab stuffed calamari, or the rib-eye steak with green peppercorn sauce. The Gathering also is super for breakfast, where the Eggs Benedict steals the spotlight, closely followed by the incredible “The Works,” a breakfast creation consisting of eggs, cheese, bacon and ham piled on grilled French toast with strawberry jam and powdered sugar on the side. At lunch The Gathering is famous for its fish and chips and Cajun chicken wrap, plus fantastic salads.

There’s a fun bar scene here as well, with “long” happy hours, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., featuring $1 off beer, booze and wine; half price appetizers and chips with salsa are only $2.50. Find out why this place is special, and has been for 16 years. The Gathering is at 902 W.Washington Street at Goldfinch. Call (619) 260-0400.