#40 The Oregon Grille

April's Monday Meal took place at #40, The Oregon Grille in Hunt Valley, just a short drive outside the city.

The view of the restaurant from the outside is impressive - located in a somewhat secluded area, away from the hustle bustle so close by.  There were little horse jockey figurines holding lanterns along the path to the front door, and outside seating was available, made cozy by an outdoor fireplace.

The ambiance inside the restaurant was upscale (men are required to wear jackets) and intimate.  Lighting was low, equestrian sports are the theme, and there was live piano music - much enjoyed by an elderly couple dancing in the bar area just outside the dining room.

We were welcomed at the door and shown to our table where, shortly after, our waitress brought us menus, described the days specials, and served us drinks.  Instead of a typical bread basket, we were served crackers with an olive tapenade and a seafood cream cheese spread ... very delicious!

Instead of an appetizer, we ordered one of their sides, Black Truffle Macaroni & Cheese, which was as amazing as it sounds, and, served with a dinner roll!

Finally, for dinner, crab cakes with asparagus.  I'm not a huge fan of asparagus, but in my opinion, it was grilled and seasoned to perfection, and I actually enjoyed it.  The crab cake was scrumptious and made with large lumps of crab!

We did not order dessert, but the dessert menu was very tempting.  The sorbet flavor of the day was lemon ... hard to resist!

We were thanked on our way out the door and left feeling comfortably full.  I would like to go back sometime to try their brunch and to eat outside!  Overall a great experience, and definitely a place I would recommend!

#39 on the list is Ten Ten American Bistro in Harbor East.  We will skip this restaurant on the Monday Meal circuit, but only because most of the group has already been.  I have been for dinner as well as for brunch and have had a great time and a great meal both times and really enjoy the decor and atmosphere!

Next up will be #38, Henninger's Tavern in Upper Fells Point - I am intrigued by the space ships and pink elephants on their website!