Best of 2000: Most Seductive Online Lunch Menus

Adams Avenue Grill
2201 Adams Avenue,
University Heights
(619) 298-8440
adamsavenuegrill@home.com

If the written word can seduce, prepare to get laid. The weekly e-mail come-on from the Adam's Avenue Grill is up there in evocative-land with the J. Peterman catalog. Each edition starts with cozy family chat re: staff and art exhibits: "A hearty welcome to our newest manager, Tania Doggett. After 11 years of hotel-restaurant experience in England, we have the pleasure of her charming accent and quick wit." Then the actual dishes have you drooling over your mouse pad: "Spicy Red Pork and Bean Chili. Pork shoulder is browned and simmered in beef broth, a cup of fresh brewed coffee, Red Turtle beans, fennel, red onions, garlic, cumin, cayenne, and fresh jalapeños; served with honey-sweetened corn mash...$12.95. Great when balanced with an Arrogant Bastard Ale...$3.50 a pint." Or: "Leek & Mushroom Soba Noodles with Tofu Blocks: Japanese miso broth infuses sautéed leeks, shallots, ginger, garlic, and crushed red pepper, then seasoned with five spice, lite soy, and rice wine. Served with simmered spinach and fresh soba noodles...$10.95 Balanced beautifully with Thornton Viognier...$6.25 a glass." If only they could e-mail the actual dishes.