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

“Choices Restaurant"
Dinner from an 1800's recipe book from The White House

Choices Restaurant is located at 307 N Commercial St in Neenah.   For more information on their products, classes and everything they have to offer visit their website.

S: How do I begin to describe the experience we had at “Choices?  Not being sure what to expect with recipes coming from the 1800's,  I was intrigued to give it a shot. 

H: I liked my first impression when I walked in.  Friendly staff greeted us at the door and made us feel welcome.

S: We were encouraged to have a drink at the old-fashioned bar.

H: Well, everything is old fashioned at “Choices.” 

S:  I know, it makes you feel like you are stepping back in time.  I enjoyed looking at some of the older pictures and decor as we were exploring.  We stumbled upon the actual cookbook that was used at the White House in the 1800's.  Fascinating!

H:  We had fun looking up the courses that were to be served that evening. 

S:  What a unique idea - inviting the public to an enchanted evening that involved learning about wine, and food that President Washington (among other Presidents) himself enjoyed.

H:  Not only did we have a wine expert educating us but we had the privilege of talking with Mike - the owner/head chef - when he took time out from the kitchen to talk with all his guests.

S: Of course that’s when I took the opportunity to snap a picture or two. We included the two people (Janet and Les) who were seated at our table.  As I looked around it seemed we weren’t the only ones having a really good time.  Smiles and laugher filled the warm, cozy dining area.

H: We had a great time experiencing the different wines and taking notes about our favorites that we intend to buy. 

S:  The wines I can’t replicate at this time but I would love to try to make a few of the food recipes some time.  What variety!  The oysters on the half shell and oxtail soup were yummy.  All the textures were different yet all complemented each other.  The brisket with stuffing and incredible potatoes with succulent spices/dressings were flavorful.  The white fish with buttery topping melted in my mouth.  We had a European dessert (warm Brie cheese on a flaky pastry).  We also had George Washington’s favorite Bavarian Cream pie with chocolate and strawberries.  Do you think that finished off the meal quite well?

H: Yes, I thought it did.  And I normally don’t eat chocolate. 

S:  I normally don’t eat as much as I did that night.  But I have no regrets as the whole experience was so enjoyable.  I mean, not only were the food and beverages delightful, but the patrons and staff were, as well.

H:  I like the idea that any given night you might find Mike offering something you wouldn’t expect on the menu at any other restaurant.

S:   Yes, while patrons can expect certain menu items to always be offered at “Choices,” you will find that Mike takes the time to plan unique meals and a dining experience that most other restaurants in the Fox Valley are not offering.  To take a White House cook book from the 1800's and create an evening event with favorite recipes is something different. I tried a new beer that I need to have again.  It had vanilla (of all things) in it.  I’m not a huge beer drinker but really enjoyed this one.

H: I believe it was an ale but I’ll have to go back to confirm it.

S:  Oh, we will go back.  I hear that “Choices” has an incredible lunch buffet (hint, hint). Great prices, friendly knowledgeable staff, and incredible food - what more could we want?