Friday, November 4, 2011

208 Garfield - Champagne taste on a beer budget!

Students at PLU should just forego the meal plan and eat at 208 Garfield!  Talk about gourmet on a budget.  This college run cafe makes you feel like you are at one the best restaurants in town without the giant bill at the end.  Large windows let in great light and lend to the casual yet upscale atmosphere.  On our first visit I had the Tuscan Chick Pea Soup with rosemary and garlic and a piadini.  Its served with a light and lovely arugala salad.  I had the cup which is only $3!! Yes, that's what's pictured below! The soup was flavorful and creamy with the wonderful complement of the spicy light arugala salad.  What an amazing bargain!


My daughter had the Pappa Pomodoro soup with San Marzano Tomatoes, Ciabatta and Extra Virgin Olive Oil and a Smoked Turkey panini with housemade pesto, romaine, lingonberries and parmesan reggiano on grilled bread.  The soup was an amazing light yet hearty blend of italian flavors again a huge bargain at $3.  The sandwich was also reasonable at $6. 


On our next visit we had the Caesar Salad with Pecorino Toscano and Prosciutto Chips.
Yes, that's it in the picture.  Yes, I said Prosciutto Chips.  Yes it's $5!!

208 Garfield focuses on locally sourced food, wine and beer.  They have the new local beer from Wingman Brewery and wine on tap so every glass is perfect.  We had these wonderful herbal spritzers with lavender and lemon and one with elderflower!  

This is the place you can go to several times a week and not break the bank,  in fact I've convinced myself that it's cheaper than eating at home.  I certainly know the food is better than what I cook at home.  I can't wait to try the pork belly and a glass of wine!  Think of a reason to go to Parkland.....wait this is reason enough to drive to Parkland!  

208 Garfield is at 208 Garfield in Parkland and is open Mon-Fri from 7 a.m. to 9 pm and Sat and Sun from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.