I Did It All for the Nookie

Nook is more than aptly named. It hides in the corner of a strip mall.

The modern American bistro features comfort food with some international twists.

Complimentary boiled peanuts.


Giggles had never had boiled peanuts before, but these reminded me of my childhood.

Crispy calamari tossed with citrus-soy vinaigrette and wasabi dipping sauce ($10).

Fine but nothing special.

Shiitake and Gruyere bread pudding ($7).

insomniac, Giggles, and I were all very excited to try this, and it didn't disappoint. It was the first savory bread pudding I'd ever tasted, and I hope it won't be the last. I don't even like mushrooms, and I loved this. Cheese? Bread? Mixed up together and baked hot? Yes, please.

Sauteed brown rice bowl with oven-dried tomatoes, asparagus, broccoli, carrots, organic chicken ($12).

Good for your body. Only ok for your taste buds. Perfect for that health-conscious friend that we all have. Let her eat this while you nosh on the next item.

Nook Burger -- Sterling Silver beef with Gruyere cheese, red onion jam, baby arugula on grilled rustic bread served with fries and a homemade pickle ($12).


This juicy, flavorful, hand-held delight made up for the bland rice bowl and gives me hope for a return visit.

I see Nook's duck rillettes, semolina-dusted soft shell crab, Kurobuta pork belly, and spicy shrimp and grits in my future. No more brown rice for me. I'm going with fellow fatties next time.