Grazing on the Campaign Trail

(Danville, California)

 

OK! Quick! Who is my political hero when it comes to campaign coverage? No, it's not Tim Russert, or David Brinkley, or Jeff Greenfield, although they are all near the top.

 

Remember a longtime "New York Times" reporter by the name of R.W. "Johnny" Apple? Apple died in 2006, but he is one of my all-time favorites.

And it's not because he was the Washington Bureau Chief or a hallowed political writer.

 

You see, Johnny Apple had the weird distinction of wearing "two hats" at the "New York Times." He was both a political reporter AND a food critic!

 

A few years ago, he toured the Napa and Sonoma Valleys just north of here and reviewed several restaurants. He did a lot of that over the years. One day he'd be covering politics, the next day reviewing a restaurant. And he was deeply respected in both very eclectic communities. Besides, you can really work up an appetite on the campaign trail.

 

This year, while traveling America, I have found some real culinary gems. So in honor of the legendary Johnny Apple, today's blog is dedicated to great dining on the political road. If you are ever in these towns, stop and have a meal at the following:

 

IOWA:  The "I-80" Spaghetti Works, 310 Court Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa. It's right in the middle of historic downtown Des Moines, three blocks from the convention center where all the politicking takes place. The lasagna was HUGE and delicious. Along with a great salad bar and soda, can you believe lunch was only $7.25 plus tax? Best bargain out there, and oh was it good! (515) 243-2195.

 

NEW HAMPSHIRE: "The Common Man" 25 Water Street, Concord, New Hampshire. This is a classic New England roadhouse. A beautiful, historic two-story restaurant with fireplaces. Great comfort food such as meatloaf, braised short ribs, steaks and all the sides. Great place to eavesdrop too. The political hub of New Hampshire campaigning. Don't be surprised if Bill Clinton or John McCain just walks up to your table and asks for your vote! There are several other locations across the state. www.thecman.com (603) 228-3463.

 

VIRGINIA: "Ray's The Steaks"  1725 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, Virginia 22209. 703-841-7297. My first tip about Washington, DC, dining is that there are tons of great places outside the District in neighboring communities such as Arlington and Alexandria, Virginia, and Bethesda, Maryland. My brother-in-law Rich Ware, a lawyer and political watcher, took me to Ray's when I covered the Potomac primaries February 12. My tip: Get here by 6 p.m. The tables go fast! You can't go wrong with any of the steaks. The sides, such as mashed potatoes and creamed spinach, come in cast iron skillets, and refills are free!

 

WISCONSIN: "Miss Katie's Diner" I wrote about Miss Katie's as I filed stories from there during the Wisconsin primary on 2/19 (See my archives below). Open breakfast, lunch and dinner. BEST breakfast I had on the road! Their BBQ ribs are legendary. A large and diverse menu and a very friendly place. And its a "who's who" of Milwaukee. Don't be surprised if the Mayor or a member of the Milwaukee Brewers drops in while you are there! www.miss-katies-diner.com 1900 W. Clybourn Street. Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-0044.

 

TEXAS: "Bob's Steak & Chop House"  4300 Lemmon Ave., Dallas, Texas. This was the treat of my travels. On a cold and rainy Dallas night I found this with my daughter Allie.
She was working as an "intern" helping me cover the Texas primary. Bob's is a legendary Texas steakhouse. Dark, plush and great steaks. Allie had the filet and I had the rib eye. All gone! The service was wonderful, and - even though we had no reservation - they greeted us like family when we walked in. I just had to finish dessert with a Cognac! www.bobs-steakandchop.com Great news for my Bay Area readers: Bob's Steak and Chop House also has a San Francisco location, 500 California Street (at Montgomery). Call (415) 273-3085.

 

Covering politics is hard work. The days are long, with precious little time to eat. Check these places out in your travels across the country, and please write in with your suggestions too!

 

I head to Philadelphia for the Pennsylvania primary in two weeks and am hoping "The Fork" restaurant on Market Street is still in business. That was my hangout during the 2000 GOP National Convention. Great food!

 

Check in often at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com

 

 

---

Planning your summer road trip? Check out AOL Travel Guides.