We did the Year of the Pork Chop here at the Enquirer in 1999. I m thinking maybe 2001 is going to be for me personally the year of the veal chop. I d rarely had one until about a year ago, but since then, I ve enjoyed several. More moist than pork, more tender than beef, with a subtle flavor that was a perfect foil for the mushrooms, herbs and tomatoes spooned over the top, it converted me for good. Mind you, this new restaurant is called Jimmy D s Steakhouse, not Jimmy D s Veal Chop House.
Chefs are no slouches at steak, either.
Jimmy Duane moved from Florida and opened his restaurant a month ago in the tucked-away spot on Cooper Road where Palbino s once served pizza. He s turned the space into an upscale steak restaurant of intimate size and civilized atmosphere. A division of the space into several rooms keeps the noise level down and banquettes make for comfortable seating. Dark wood behind the bar, low lighting, easy chairs by a fire and servers in long white aprons complete the pleasant atmosphere. It s served with a watercress and avocado salad.