Welcome to HE SAID - SHE SAID, a unique critique of Fox Valley events.  Our goal is to provide a perspective, in a very useful way.  We figured out something recently, something scientists have known for a long time.  It seems that some people use their left hemisphere, some, their right.  Men are from Mars, Women, from Venus - or so the story goes.  But you need not worry about any of that here, because we cover it all - from the male point of view as well as the female point of view.  So read, absorb and enjoy...  And try NOT to choose sides!
Christina

“Mark's East Side Restaurant "

Mark's East Side Restaurant is located at 1405 E Wisconsin Ave. in Appleton.  For more information on their restaurant visit their website.

H: Mark’s East Side is a popular place.  I thought it would be difficult to get a drink because it was so busy.  But the patrons were nice in allowing us to get to the bar to order some beverages.  I was pleased with the smoke-free environment but for those who wish to smoke there is a nice patio section in back for eating and drinking.

S: People were standing by the bar area laughing and having a nice time.  No one seemed to mind waiting (for their table) as they were socializing and enjoying their drinks.  I like the large aquarium behind the bar.  There are some very colorful beautiful fish in there!

H: I was pleased with having a hostess coming to find me when my table was ready.  I didn’t have to worry about keeping an eye out or having to go check.

S:   We brought our drinks to our table and our waitress came over to see if we would like to order another round before we ordered.  We took her up on that.  As soon as she put in our drink order she came back to see if we would like appetizers and/or were ready to order.  We ordered the spinach/artichoke.  Wow!  Not only was the dip fantastic but the bread (slightly crunchy and hearty) was amazing, also.

H:  I was impressed how the staff worked together to make sure everyone was being taken care of.

S:  Yes, I like how they pull together to make sure everyone is happy.  In fact, our waitress said it’s like working with her “family” at Mark’s East Side.  That’s nice to hear.

H: I had the cheddar baked haddock with onions and tomatoes.  I think that is one of Mark’s signature entrees.  The haddock flaked apart nicely.  It was some of the best fish I’ve had in a long time.

S:  So it was better than you could do at home?

H: That doesn’t take much.

S:  Funny, I know from first hand experience. I had surf and turf.  My baked haddock was phenomenal.  In fact, it was so good dipped in the drawn butter that it tasted much like lobster.  The meat was prepared exactly like I asked.  It melted in my mouth. I also had the wild rice which was cooked perfectly. 

H:  We had the clam chowder soup which I would have to agree (as says in the menu) is some of the best (if not the best) clam chowder in the valley.

S: I know!  I’m not a huge clam chowder fan as I’ve had some less than stellar cups of the soup.  But this was something spectacular, to say the least.

H: There were so many other entree choices on the menu that I want to try.

S: So we’ll go back?  I hope so, because the Friday Fish Fry looks fantastic.  I saw plates overflowing with golden fried fish being served to tables who ordered the fish fry.   Everyone in the restaurant looked happy and content with their food, drinks and service. 

H:  Our waitress was very helpful with guiding us in our dessert choices.  I’d never had creme brulee before.  I’m not sure I have the proper words to describe it. It was absolutely incredible!

S:  I know, creme brulee is one of those desserts in which you truly do savor each and every bite.  I’ve made it before and appreciate the effort that went into our serving of this succulent tasty, treat.  We also ordered the fried banana caramel with cinnamon ice cream dessert.  It is one of Mark’s signature desserts. Our waitress had recommended it and we had to say yes when she did such a good job describing what we would be getting. One word:  “Yummy.”

H: It tasted so good I knew I would not be bringing any home.

S: There was never any question there.

H: Are you insinuating that I eat a lot?

S: Um, I’m just saying I know I’m not the only one with a sweet tooth.  I could see coming back to just have coffee and desserts.  There are so many delicious foods to try. 

H: I can’t wait to go back, myself.

S: Originally known as “Chef Bill’s Supper Club” Mark’s East Side  was originated by Mark’s mom and dad in 1967.  Mark took over the family business in 1982 and changed the name to Mark’s East Side in 1987. 

Whether you want to be in your own little world with your sweetheart or enjoying a large festive gathering, Mark’s East Side has the food, service and facility that will satisfy your wants and needs.  Mark has established himself as a leader in creating entrees and desserts that keep patrons coming back for more.  Mark loves his job and it shows with the smile on his face as he makes and serves drinks while overseeing his “home away from home.”  Whether it’s lunch or dinner, stop in at Mark’s East Side to enjoy fine food and service that will leave you smiling and wanting to come back.