After a trip to Vegas last week and several days of getting back into the normal swing of things, date night finally came around again. Jenn and I headed towards Greensboro to the Guilford College area on Friday night, to try out a place called “MJ’s Steak & Seafood”. After reading good reviews online about them recently, I had been eager to see what the fuss was all about. Located on Dolley Madison Road in a charming rustic two-story home, lies this quaint little restaurant. There is a small bar area to the left behind the hostess stand as you walk into MJ’s. The rooms of the house are left with walls still intact, giving the dining experience a cozy feel. We were sat on the first floor at a table overlooking what appears to be a very relaxing, yet vibrant patio scene here at MJ’s. On this particular evening there was live acoustic guitar to be heard outside. The noise level inside is very low, which can be nice. Our server Eric, quickly brought us menus and rattled off some delicious sounding specials.
Appetizer course: “Giacomo’s Chorizo Crab Dip” ” This was an interesting take on an old standard, with the Chorizo adding some depth to the flavor, with just the right amount of heat and also what tasted like a hint of nutmeg. Whatever it was it worked. We finished it in short order. Our server Eric seemed to be right on time with just about everything this evening. Anytime I needed a refill or there was a course change he was on top of it.
Salad Course: Jenn chose the “Baby Spinach Salad” which is served here with Strawberries, Marcona Almonds and Sherry Dijon Vinaigrette. She mentioned that it seemed to be a little one-sided in flavor, but normally it comes with Goat Cheese (she had Eric leave it off, she does not do goat or blue cheese), which probably would have rounded out the salads flavor. I went with one of my favorites, “The Wedge”. It is served in traditional form here, with a fresh-cut wedge of Iceberg Lettuce topped with Bacon, Creamy Herb Dressing, Blue Cheese and Tomatoes. It was the best one I have had in a long while and the blue cheese was top quality.
Entrée Course: Jenn opted for one of the specials of the evening, “Soft Shell Crab over Angel Hair Pasta with Steamed Mussels, Spinach, Tomatoes and Toasted Pinenut Pesto Broth. The crab was deep-fried flawlessly and the batter, although a little aggressive on the seasoning, was very tasty. The mixture of all the elements to the dish created a very rich plate, which Jenn had trouble finishing. I went with the “Scottish Salmon” which is served here pan seared over Asparagus,with a Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Potato Cake, Herb Crab Salad and Roasted Corn Puree. The Salmon was cooked faultlessly, although I would have preferred heavier seasoning, the flavor was still nice. The sweetness of the puree and crab salad complimented the potato cake pleasantly.
Dessert Course: “Lemon Chess Pie” ” MJ’s has a wide array of house made desserts to choose from. Eric easily sold us on this one though with his comment of “lemony goodness” pretty much sealing the deal. I am a sucker for lemony goodness and this was no exception. It was as wonderful as I was hoping it would be. A great end to a delicious meal.
From the ambiance to the service and not to mention the good food, MJ’s is easily added to our favorites list. If you frequent Greensboro for dining out on your date night rotation, then add this one to the mix and you won’t be disappointed. Oh and they also have a patio which seems ideal for larger parties wanting to have a good time. Go out and eat local!
Vegetarian Options: Salads
Pricing: Starters $7-$15, Soup and Salad $4-$7, Entrees $19-$34
MJ’s Steak and Seafood
620 Dolley Madison Rd, Greensboro, NC 27410
336.852.4889 www.mjssteakandseafood.com36.088524-79.884215
