CLEDinnerClub Hits Up Deagan's

Last week, the monthly gathering of the @CLEDinnerClub brought the group to Deagan's Kitchen & Bar in Lakewood. Chef Tim Bando was excited to cook for us, giving him a chance to do "his food" and have some fun with a group of diners that are always up for trying things. Which is exactly what we got to do...

The meal started with some fresh oysters.

Then, my favorite course of the evening--- the sweet corn soup with poached lobster and mushrooms.

Next, a light halibut dish with a variety of beans. Beans and fish is not something that I would have thought to pair, but it worked!

Then, we had salmon. It is well-known that I do not care for salmon. I will never order it, and will only try a bite occasionally. It is just often too "fishy" in flavor for my personal taste, and as hard as I try to like it...it's just a "no". I've only enjoyed salmon twice. The first time was during a Touch Supper Club farm-to-table dinner, and the second...this dish at Deagan's.

The fish was very mild, and paired with beets and cheese (two of my favorite things). So, I happily enjoyed this course and was pleasantly surprised.
Now, on to the meat courses, and first up was squab (or pigeon, if you will).

The dish overall was incredibly flavorful and enjoyable, but the meat itself was a little tough. I don't think that I'm a fan of squab. I could take it or leave it.

The last savory course of the meal was a lamb chop seasoned to remind you of eating a gyro.

This dish was polarizing for our group, but "R" and I fell into the category of people that really liked this dish. A couple of diners even felt that this dish should be added to the regular menu.

Chef Tim ended the meal with a perfectly refreshing serving of Mitchell's vanilla ice cream, fresh strawberries, and a balsamic chocolate drizzle. Isn't it crazy that no matter how stuffed you are, you can always find room for a good dessert?! This last course just hit the spot, and ended the experience on a high note.

Deagan's always seems to shine brightest during the special events and private dinners that I've attended. This dinner was no exception, and we all left there completely stuffed and content after a good meal with good company. I always love attending the dinner club events that Joe G. coordinates. There are always familiar faces, and new foodie friends to meet. "R" may have been put in the hot seat for a bit about why we aren't married after six years of dating, but I found it amusing. He can stand to sweat a little. I get questioned about our status all the time! Hopefully, he doesn't think twice about attending the next one.

I hear that Joe is likely taking the group to the newly opened District in Downtown Cleveland next month. Follow @CLEDinnerClub on Twitter, and DM the account to be added to the mailing list. It's always a fun time, and the food and experience for just $40 can't be beat. Thanks for another great event, Joe and Deagan's!

Deagan's Kitchen & Bar
14810 Detroit Avenue
Lakewood, Ohio 44107
(216) 767-5775