LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
EatingOUT: |
by Marion McGrath |
Schlep on Over to Lori's Oy Vey Caf
The absolute best place to see and be seen in Rehoboth is without doubt, Lori's Caf (39 Baltimore Ave.). Located smack in the heart of action in "THE Courtyard," you just couldn't have a better view of the comings and goings of much of the community. Rainbow colored outdoor tables shaded by big umbrellas set against the rainbow fence has become a sure sign that summer is about to begin. But, an even better reason to go is the food. Lucky for us, Lori Kline decided to ditch teaching in 1997 and came to Rehoboth to open a place that not only serves great food, but also is fun. If Susan and I didn't make at least one stop in Lori's Caf, we wouldn't feel as if we'd been to the beach. So on a sunny afternoon we headed over for an "official" visit. Two years ago Lori doubled the size of the Caf so there is indoor seating as well as those sought after outdoor tables. Lori's is open daily at 8 a.m. and closes "when it's over." (Translation: when the throngs dwindle down to nothing.) So, you might want to start your day off with breakfast. There are bagels, muffins, fresh fruit plates, yogurt, veggies topped with Muenster cheese on a bagel, hot ham and cheese croissants, and, my favorite, the smoked salmon platecream cheese, Norwegian smoked salmon on a bagel with lettuce, tomato, red onion and capers. Coffee? You bet, and some of the freshest brewed you can find, iced or hot. Ditto with the teas. If you don't want to eat your lunch there, Lori's will pack you up your very own beach bag. You'll have a hard time making a decision regardless of whether you take out or eat in. Just in time for the new summer menu, Susan and I hemmed and hawed, and, knowing that Lori bakes the turkey in the store, I settled on a hefty Turkey Reuben. It's like a regular Reuben, only made with turkey. Warning: it takes a big mouth to wrap around this sandwich. Needless to say, I had no problem. The sandwich was averageBUT bear in mind that average for Lori's will surpass the best you've had anywhere else! All of the sandwiches, whether meat or salad types come piled high with chips, pickles, and fruit. I can always pretty much count on Susan to do the healthy thing and she didn't disappoint me. Her choice of a salad platter was a wise one. Lori's chicken salad was named by Delaware Today magazine as 2002 Critic's Choice for Downstate Delaware. And, it's a chicken salad that you'll want to give your own personal award to. Chunks of tender, white meat chicken with bleu cheese, toasted almonds, tart apples, "and more." This was nestled in a mixed field green salad so crisp that it crackled with every bite. Vegetarians don't get short shrift here. There are a number of sandwiches to choose from. Why not try one with ripe avocado, tomatoes, baby greens and "THE BEST" hummus ever. All sandwiches can be prepared on your choice of bread. The selections are posted daily. Should you decide on egg salad, you can't go wrong. Each sandwich is made with fresh-chopped eggs while you wait. This is a personal favorite of mine. If you still have room left, you might want to have one or two cookies that Lori's bakes fresh daily on premises. That, or maybe a candy bar or a fistful of gummi bears. Or, you could help me lobby for doughnuts, but even without the doughnuts your sweet tooth will be satisfied. While in Lori's make sure to check out the new residenta mermaid who has no name. Then pick up a coupon or two, get creative and think of the perfect name for her. You'll have a chance to win lunch for two and have the satisfaction of knowing she is now the mermaid who dares speak her name. Not only has Lori Kline given us a great oasis with truly good food, she is a good citizen of Rehoboth. Each Tuesday night she is the Facilitator for the GLBT Youth Group that meets in the Community Center. She has a great sense of humor and is a terrific role model for young people. So, when you go to Lori's whether you're served by Lori or the familiar face of Peg Fuller, you'll be treated like the special person you are. Go in a few times and it's sort of like Cheers, a place where everyone will soon know your name. Lori's Caf, 39 Baltimore Avenue, is open daily from 8 a.m until they run out of chicken salad. For carryout orders, call 302-226-3066. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 14, No. 5 May 21, 2004 |