Salt of the Earth in Fennville

Since the Divas' last review was in Muskegon (Hennessy's Irish Pub) - the upper end of our geographic reviewing region - we decided to head south in May.  At Nancy's daughter's (Sarah's) suggestion, we chose Salt of the Earth in Fennville.

Neither Kelle nor Nancy had been there before.  In fact, neither recalled ever having been in Fennville before!  "I know there's a game area near Fennville," commented Nancy.  "But, that's about all I know.  Since I'm not a hunter (and with apologies to Fennville readers), I've never really had a reason to go to Fennville."

But now we do!  And that reason is Salt of the Earth.

We decided on Friday, May 1, for our Fennville dining adventure, with a stop on the way in Saugatuck.  Kelle wanted to pick up a few things at The Butler's Pantry in Saugatuck (she recommends the Delicae Pantry Slow Cooker Dinner) which itself is worth a trip to Saugatuck!

From Saugatuck, Fennville is about a 15-minute drive. Although Google Maps will direct you to take US-31 to the Blue Star Highway, we chose to follow Old Allegan Road to 58th Street to MI-89.  What a lovely drive as Old Allegan Road winds its way through the gorgeous countryside and woodsy areas!

We arrived at Salt of the Earth at 6:00 p.m. and were seated immediately (although we did notice that it fills up quickly).  We had two Guest Diva's for the evening - Karen Cordes, a Houston-based friend of Kelle's, and Nancy's daughter, Sarah.  Karen was in Michigan visiting family, so Kelle made sure to steal her away for a dining review.  They entertained everyone by sharing a few good memories stemming back over 20 some years.  

Salt of the Earth is renowned for its homemade breads, and fresh farm-to-market preparations. All were wonderful! Although with a full house of diners, we found the service a little on the slow side. Even so, we wouldn't hesitate going back.  

Kelle Lynn & Karen Cordes

Nancy & Sarah Levenburg

Baked Gruyere (served on rustic French bread with a sweet onion jam) $11

"We loved it!"

Braised Pork Shoulder $24

Kelle:  "The pork was so moist and tender and served on top of creamy mashed potatoes.  I would go back and get this delightful dish again and again.  I think everyone secretly wished they ordered my entree after they had a bite!  

Before we left the manager stopped by our table and asked if we enjoyed our dinner.  He explained how the local farmers sit down to a meal and say how surprised they are  to see what the chef has done with their produce!" 

Pan Seared Sea Scallops  $31

Karen:  "As soon as I walked in the door, I was taken by the warm and rustic ambiance and felt right at home.  Once we sat down, I opened up a large cloth tea napkin and loved it!  I wish more restaurants used napkins of this size.  From the appetizer to the dessert, I thoroughly enjoyed everything!"

  

Nancy:  "Since Sarah had raved about the Grilled Hanger Steak at $24, I decided to try it.  It's served with potato gratin, an intriguing compliment made with layered potatoes, celery verde (green celery) and celery root.  It's also served with your choice of a side dish; I chose the "Farmer's Greens," a mix of lettuce, shaved onion, romano cheese, and a balsamic parmesan dressing.  The hanger steak was grilled to perfection... and mouthwateringly moist."

Baby Blue Wood Fired Pizza $14.5

Sarah:  "Thin crust with Bleu cheese and honey drizzled on the crust. Yummy! No red sauce, much to my surprise. 

In addition, I really enjoyed our dessert... the s'more. It was a buttery graham cracker crust with gooey marshmallow and chocolate. HUGE!!! 

Had a blast. We had a reservation so there was no real wait. Great atmosphere and easy going waitstaff. The wait in food however was a different story.... Very long time lapse in between ordering drinks to placing dinner order. Overall, I would definitely go back for the farm to table cuisine."      

Wood Fire Toasted S'more $4
Homemade marshmallow, graham cracker crumb, milk chocolate pudding, salted caramel

Salt of the Earth

114 East Main Street

Fennville, MI  49408

www.saltoftheearthfennville.com

The Divas want it to be noted, with all due respect, that the views and opinions shared in this venue do not represent those of the Grand Haven Tribune and are entirely based on each individual experience we encounter.  Perhaps on any other occasion, they may differ.  Our dining experience is entirely at our own expense and not covered by the Grand Haven Tribune or any dining establishment.