So I had plans for dinner with a friend last night. We got together to discuss (those who know me might find this sorta shocking) some software issues. I won't go into it more than that because frankly, you'll be bored. Anyhow we met at Borders and then had to choose a restaurant. Now this is an area of southern New Hampshire that is absolutely chock full of anti-foodie hell: the chain restaurant. To your left there's a Chili's, to your right, a Pizzeria Uno.
In fact, right smack in front of the Borders was a Chili's, where we almost went on account of the facts that 1) it was very close and 2) it was nut-chattering cold (11 degrees F) outside. My friend had a better idea though, as down the street just a bit was a Carrabba's Italian Grill. Yes, I know, a chain. Still, my friend insisted that it was pretty good "for a chain." Off we went.
I don't really mean to imply that I'm a foodie. I mean, I do enjoy dining at a swank-a-licious bistro-type place, but I also enjoy a good burger and fries. What I'm getting at is that I'm no snob. My problem with so-called corporate food has to do with both the atmosphere (too much of it!) and the disappearance of smaller, independent restaurants. But... the wonderful aroma of garlic-filled marina made me forget (for a minute or so) these issues.
Then I made the mistake of answering "no" to the question "Have you been to Carrabba before?" Big mistake, as I was then treated to a five-minute rundown of the history of the company, how they're not really a chain as each restaurant is independently owned and operated, that every item is made fresh, and even the structure and layout of the menu. Yikes, it was annoying. Partly because I was sort of beat and just wanted to enjoy a nice glass of cabernet, and partly because the diatribe was so long and embarrassing that I couldn't take pleasure in the fact that the woman delivering said propaganda was insanely pretty. Damn you, corporate America!
Long story short on the food: quite good. Maybe not tiny Italian bistro good, but certainly the best I've had at any chain. The lobster ravioli were very tasty, especially when paired with the red (vs. the cream) sauce. Lotsa garlic, the way I like it.
Article comments
1 - Glen Boyd
Right before Journey began their so-called "corporate rock" phase with this record (and yes, it was a calculated move), they made two really good records, a self-titled one and "Look Into The future". This was also around the first time I saw them (opening for Thin Lizzy) and man! you wanna talk about blistering Neal Schon solos!
That was my biggest problem with this so-called "corporate" era that began with Infinity. The fact that those amazing solos got so trimmed down in favor of actual (gasp!) song structure.
That said, in retrospect the songs that are on "Infinity" hold up pretty damn well. Compared with the other "corporate rock" of the time (Styx, Boston, etc.) I think this band clearly had the best sense of songcraft. I can't even listen to Boston truth be told, but thats largely the fault of rock radio that continues to ram that first record down our throats to this day.
So I think its okay Mark, all these years later, to actually come out of the closet and say you like Journey. It's kinda like Abba (who are a major guilty pleasure of mine). Journey are almost considered "cool" now.
As for italian food, if you're ever out Seattle way, I'll take ya to Abbondandos in West Seattle. You cant walk past the door without being drawn in by the aroma there.
-Glen
2 - Pico
I began to laugh as soon as I read in the title that you were reviewing Journey, because coming from you there was some serious splainin' to do.
But I know what you mean. When Infinity first came out in '78 it sounded very fresh. It wasn't trend-setting by any means, just well written, well executed mainstream rock. Perry was the new king of the upper register, Schon was the master at memorable pocket solos and Rolie was that mad keyboardist from Santana who augmented Perry's vocals well (he was, after all, the main vocalist before Perry was brought in to give the band a wider appeal).
When Rolie left in '81, Journey stopped being Carrabas and became the Olive Garden. That's when I lost interest.
3 - Carson's Mom
I just bought Infinity last week. It was a guilty pleasure. I was instantly transported back to 6th grade, listening to Journey while rollerskating with my friends. You can imagine my surprise when I googled "Journey Infinity" and found this blog.
Thanks! Its good to know that the oldies are not forgotten.
4 - Mark Saleski
...Journey stopped being Carrabas and became the Olive Garden
pico, that is excellent! dang, wish i'd a thought of it.
5 - Pico
What can I say...food inspires me!
6 - Mark Sahm
I was 2 when this album came out.
7 - Mark Saleski
and so what's your point there, mr. sahm?
8 - The Ghost of Lester Bangs
Journey?
9 - Mark Saleski
didn't you own an Abba t-shirt Mr. Bangs?
10 - DJRadiohead
I have not, nor have I ever, owned a Journey t-shirt.
I was 8.
11 - Connie Phillips
Wonderful as always, Mark.
I must admit I never got any further into Journey than whatever single was playing on '80s pop radio and those songs are tied to memories. I have memories of a one and only visit to a local Carrabas, but they're not nearly as pleasant...