Pete and Tom planned to leave on Monday but I insisted they wait until after lunch so I could take them to the Watersview Restaurant on Lake Gaston. The food is exceptionally good and waterfront dining is always special. I wanted P & T to carry away this mental picture of their last moment in NC, for this visit anyway.
Alas! Some things are not to be. We entered the open, welcoming front door to find workmen roaming around the place. Renovations are being made and the restaurant won’t be open again until March 2.
The gracious owner reminded us that the Lakeside is not open on Mondays but Pino’s in nearby Gasburg VA is. My disappointment led to a new experience.
The interior of Pino’s is much larger than it appears from the outside with a small “no smoking” room off to the left. Even though it wasn’t crowded we chose the small room. Al was hooked up to his mobile oxygen tank looking like he carries a six-gun with a long barrel in a modern-day holster. Our waitperson greeted us happily and with a distinctive accent.
The first words spoken, “where ya from?” revealing her Jersey City roots gave us an instant connection. (Al kept wanting to call her Penny Marshall) It continued to get better with our wine served. Our salad orders went like this: Jersey girl: “Oil & vinegar?” Pete: “What dressings do you have?” Jersey girl: “Oil & vinegar.” Tom: “Balsamic vinegar?” Jersey girl: “No.” Pete & Tom: “Oil & vinegar.”
We were all happy with our dinners. Eggplant Parm, (my measure of a good Italian restaurant,) Chicken Parm, Lasagna and a Combination Special for Pete were served with garlic bread, too. Our appetites were sated and their parting memory a good one.
On their next trip down, Pete & Tom promised to bring her some fresh mozzarella and NY bagels.
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