Steak and Singing

To celebrate Neyonce's new position, we went to Fleming's with a few of Mr. Monkey's co-workers. I took this photo in November, but it fits here. Sort of.

Fleming's is not that interesting. It is a steak chain in the same vein as The Palm, Morton's, or Ruth's Chris.

I had a White Cosmo (Ketel One, Peach Schapps, white cranberry juice, lemon zest, and dried blueberries). It was quite lovely.

I had a tough time taking photos during dinner. It was really dim, so I finally resorted to flash for a few shots. When I did, a manager came and asked why I was taking photos. I explained that I blog and photograph everything I eat. She looked incredulous. You know what I say to that?

That butter pat summed up my feelings perfectly. Big boo!

Notwithstanding the meanie manager, I forged ahead. Mr. Monkey started with the French onion soup. This was my fave of the night. Really hearty.

After the soup, Mr. Monkey noshed on a bacon-wrapped petite filet mignon and lobster tail. Both were good.

I tried the Chilean sea bass. Also good.

We shared a number of sides, including the famous Fleming's potatoes with cream, jalapeño, and cheddar cheese.

I'd heard raves about these from various sources, but these were terrible. The potatoes were woefully underdone, almost crunchy. They also didn't have nearly as much flavor as you'd think with those tasty ingredients. Perhaps this was a fluke, but I felt so bad about insisting on ordering these damn potatoes when Mr. Monkey really wanted sauteed sweet corn instead. Double big boo!

Luckily, the other sides were better. I really liked the creamed spinach.

The chipotle cheddar macaroni and cheese was enjoyable.

Double-cut shoestring fries and onion rings comprised the half and half. Yum. Too bad you can't see them so far away behind the candle.

We shared a few desserts. The frozen lemon gingersnap pie consisted of frozen custard with vanilla, fresh ginger, and raspberry lemon foam. Icy, tart, light.

The chocolate peanut butter sandwich was just the opposite. The chocolate cookie crust, peanut butter mousse, and raspberry jam were so heavy that each of us could only stomach a couple bites. I think we only finished half of one.

Everybody seemed to enjoy their meals.

Truthfully, though, I doubt I'll go to Fleming's again on my own volition. It was fine. It just wasn't great. I'd much rather spend that kind of money on greatness.

The night was young, though. Much more fun was yet to come.

Rosen Music Studio has surpassed Orchid in my karaoke heart. It is cleaner and has superior state-of-the-art systems with lasers, better service, comparable song selection, and lower prices. Good times.

"In Da Club" with pomeranians on the screen equals awesomeness.