Chow. Norfolk, VA

Coming home from the Williamsburg Outlets we stopped at Chow in Norfolk, VA for dinner. I was looking for something filling and meaty and ordered the Duck-4-Ways special and Shelby got the lamb burger.

I lucked out because Smartmouth’s Notch 9 was on tap too. Smartmouth recent won a bronze medal in a national competition with this beer so I was dying to try it. The duck was delicious. The plate came out with Seared Duck Breast, Braised Duck Thigh and Leg, Duck Cracklin’, and Duck Gravy with sides of Brussels Sprouts and Mashed Potatoes. The breast tasted like a great steak and I couldn’t believe I was eating fowl. The braised meat fell from the bone and the gravy was tasty. The cracklin’ could have been a little more crackling but it was good fresh.

The lamb burger was cooked perfect and dressed nice. We both ate about half our food and took the rest home. I did get a O’Connor Great Dismal Black IPA before we finished out meal—love that beer. I was very happy with Chow and the Southern, comfort food style menu. I’m looking forward to eating there again.

Shelby and I drove up to Richmond today to have brunch with Marleigh. It’s her birthday tomorrow! We tried getting into Black Sheep and Cafe 821, but both places were packed. We tried Balliceaux and they had a spot open and I’m glad they did.

The food there was great and the service was friendly. I ordered the Soul (Mama Loves You). Buttermilk biscuits with country sausage gravy, there was a little bite with the gravy and the biscuits were perfect. I also had a side of Ironic, truffle cured bacon! Super good! Shelby ordered the Duck and Waffles. It was topped with a spicy maple syrup and whipped butter. I’ve heard of chicken and waffles but never tried it, this was a really good combination. Marleigh got the Proper Fry-up, a classic breakfast plate, with home fries, Surry sausage, house bacon, eggs, beans, toast, and grilled tomato.

All-in-all, we had a great time and I’m glad we had chance to try the place out.