Totally Unauthorized

Albacore tuna, mashed potatoes, a decent spinach salad and a side of asparagus, for less then $15.

My friend Ally Whiteneck sent me a note touting a new restaurant in Walnut Creek, Tender Greens, on Locust next to Lark Creek.  Gail and I gave it a try tonight, and I think it’s a winner.

The place is brand new–they can’t take American Express cards until tomorrow, or sell wine until Tuesday–which worked out well because they then proceeded to comp Gail her glass of eminently drinkable Pinot Gris.  They don’t have much business yet, but they are simply aswarm with willing employees.

The setup strikes me as strange–you go through a line, read the menu on the wall and place your order, then walk all along the kitchen counter to where you order your drink.  They give you a tray with your drink and silverware, but then bring you the food.  I don’t get it.

The food, though, is excellent.  We had the tomato/bread soup which was rich and hearty without the acidity that sometimes comes out in tomatoes. Then I had the albacore tuna, seared rare, with mashed potatoes and a side salad, for which I chose spinach.  No way could we pass up a side of grilled asparagus.  Everything was cooked right, the presentation was careful, it came to the table hot.

The menu isn’t large or complex–y0u have a choice of steak, chicken, fish or vegetables on a salad, on a plate or in a sandwich.  Prices are quite low–my albacore plate was $10.50, barely more than the fish alone would cost me at Lunardi’s.

Tender Greens is a great place to get a quick meal at a very good price.  It isn’t fine dining, it doesn’t pretend to be.  You can be in and out and on your way in 30 minutes for $20 apiece, and that’s hard to beat.  Thanks, Ally.