Mad about Mushrooms . . .

South Bay Wild Fish House & Market - Astoria, OR

It's been way too long since we offered a restaurant review, and certainly there are a number of very good reasons why, not the least of which is spelled COVID.  Still, even in the time of pandemic, there are splendid places that are unexpectedly gifted to us.  The South Bay Wild Fish House & Market is just such a place! 

We were there last Sunday after wandering thru the highly enjoyable Sunday Astoria Market where vendors offered some exceptional wares, including enormous bouquets of colorful fresh flowers, hand crafted baskets being created onsite, and wildlife paintings by Dave Bartholet along with a set of easily accessible, exceptionally clean and well serviced restrooms.  With the market located on 12th Street from Commercial to Exchange, it's easy to navigate your way among the booths of engaged sellers.

August, 2020's Recipe of the Month: Bon Appetit's Grilled Mushroom Antipasto Salad

I've been experimenting with different mushroom preparations from time to time this summer.  Some were just so-so; others were quite pleasant.  This one was simply delightful:  not only busting with flavors but also with colors and shapes.  It's a real winner for summer or any time of the year!

Bon Appetit in their June, 2020 magazine issue leads into the recipe with the following comment:

"Mushrooms turn into crispy, smoky flavor bombs on the grill,” says Brad Leone. “I keep them in big pieces so they don’t fall between the grates. This dish is basically grilled antipasto. Easy, hearty, and it can stand up to the hot weather if you make it ahead and it’s sitting there on the picnic table or whatever.”

Leone suggests using Maitake
whose name means "dancing" in Japanese.