Yesterday for lunch I had a smoked salmon and cucumber sandwich on marlbled rye bread with a side of fruit and a small salad. I had a very stylish outfit of sharp black pants, gray sweater and red flats that looked tres professional. And yet, I was the most casually dressed person at the Taft Museum for lunch. The Taft Museum is this wonderfully charming little art museum in downtown Cincinnati in an old mansion formerly owned by the Taft family (as in President Taft). It's in this wonderful corner of downtown that tucked away between some very plain buildings and the concrete mess of highways along the river. This little corner looks like something that belongs in Boston; colonial style buildings, a little plaza/park area with a fountain and the museum, a remnant of the richy-rich's that used to adorn this neighborhood.
My friend Laura and I were meeting for a long overdue lunch and I was going to suggest Arnold's my favorite place for lunch downtown (till now) and my favorite bar. Unfortunately due to company rules, I can't enjoy the establishment for both at the same time. But, Laura immediately had a suggestion...for a place she had just been to yesterday. Seriously, yesterday. I knew this place must be good. And so we headed to the Taft.
When we walked in we were greated by the nicest lady who welcomed us and opened the french doors into the entrance to the museum. Tables had been set up inside the lobby and also outside in the garden. Laura and I opted for dining outside. Al fresco dining is hard to find in this city (another reason why I love Arnold's), so I was thrilled to see such a bright and comfortable place to have lunch.
The menu was brief, but well put together. There was a wide variety of intriciate soups, a bevy of salads and some easy sandwiches. Our waiter shared two warm specials with us that sounded delightful, but I had already noticed the smoked salmon on the menu. Ever since Seattle, I seriously cannot eat enough Salmon. It's become a regular part of my weekend breakfast's and if it's on the menu someplace, I get it.
What was most grand about this place though was the few other people who were there. Laura and I were one of the few people from the local businesses. Instead, the place was filled with ladies who lunch. We're talking Chanel Skirt Suit wearing, discrete politeness and order food that doesn't get eaten ladies who lunch. I've heard about these women, but I've never really seen them before. They dress nicer for lunch and whatever volunteer activities they're headed to after lunch than I do for most formal events. It was totally cool.
Not cool in an envious way though. If I ever become a lady who lunches, I better be 80 years old, retired, and wearing my nicest clothes cause it reminds me of my youth. None of this ladies who lunch as a career choice. Still, the entire meal was a charming experience. Sitting on the patio, drinking our iced teas while we dined on salmon and cucumber sandwiches. We are so chic.
Is this that place? B's review:
Chillness: Chill? No. Chic? Yes.
Price: Ladies who Lunch could afford more, but perfect for us working stiffs.
Food Quality: Simple, well put together and served with a smile.
