If you read my last post, you might remember that I said my next ‘Lunch Date Saturday’ review would be in two weeks. Swamped. That’s what I was (and still am). I really didn’t think I would get around to going out yesterday — 24 recipes to test, remember? But by three in the afternoon, my head was spinning, and I was craving lunch and a glass with the boy.
We ended up going to Hudson Bar & Kitchen in Almere, one of the six branches of the trendy restaurant serving all-American classics such as burgers, fully-loaded hot dogs, spare ribs, bar bites and cocktails. I had visited the restaurant before with friends, both for dinner and for drinks, but never got around to writing a review. Now’s a good time as any!
One of the first things I tried was their grilled rib-eye served with coleslaw, red onion compote, salad and thick-cut chips. I’m a seasoned steak connoisseur and this one passed the test in every way. Good grill taste, good seasoning and a perfect ‘cuisson’. Their Argentinian Malbec — plump, plummy and a little smoky around the edges — also managed to impress my palate. So much so, that I’ve gone back a few more times just for a glass. Exactly my type of wine. Strong, aromatic and not for wussies. Fine piña coladas too, generous on the rum, in other words.
Yesterday, however, hubby and I both went for their chili con carne, served with guacamole, coleslaw, sour cream, tortilla chips and bread. A choice that was not on the lunch menu, but that they kindly agreed to make for us anyway. Good service? Check. Good chili? 
Also check. Rich, meaty and mellow on the spice. The only thing that was slightly overpowering was the garlic. Tone that down a notch or two and you’ve got a great bowl.
I still have to try their burgers, which are actually what they pride themselves on. The prawn one with lime mayo sounds godly. As does the ‘Mr. Big’: 300 grams of beef with bacon, cheddar, red onion and a fried egg — not a bad name either.
I’ll be popping over again. You’ll find me at one of their tall tables, slurping on a broad chested Malbec and saying to the charming waiter: “Give me a Hudson burger and no one gets hurt.” Now the only question is… which one.
