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Y! MyWebBar Review
Mela Urban Bistro
'Life is too short to be squandered on ordinary food.'
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Without mincing words, the Lounge Lizards absolutely loved this place!
After a frenzied day of shopping at several antique stores in the area, we happened into the Courtyard by Marriott location in the heart of downtown Springfield, discovering Mela's Lounge. We didn't know it then, but it turned out to be an early Christmas treat. We were welcomed into the lounge by Chad Hess, our very attentive bartender, who proved to be just as fantastic as the bar. The list of martinis and cocktail suggestions was long and despite the many varied choices, Chad suggested a twist on Mela's Woo Woo Martini (a variation of a Cosmopolitan).
Extras
Drinks at Mela Urban Bistro in the Courtyard by Marriott in Springfield in front of the art glass flowers. (From left): Maui-Waui, B-52, Melon Explosion and Wild Cherry Martini.Mela Urban Bistro
- WHERE: 100 S. Fountain Ave., downtown Springfield. [Map]
- HOURS: Lounge hours are 2-11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 2 p.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday and 2-9 p.m. Sunday. Hours for the restaurant are different than the lounge.
- MORE INFO: (937) 471-9009 or www.melaurbanbistro.com
- COST: Appetizers from $6; entrees from $15; cocktails from $5.
- VIBE: Hip and California contemporary with blown Chihuly-like glass pieces, light woods and modern art.
- MORE: Reader ratings, complete profile
The secret weapon in Chad's version (see recipe) is Pama (one of the Lounge Lizards' favorite liquors of 2006) creating a concoction we have termed the "Pama Woo." Refreshing and perfectly mixed, it quickly became all the rage at the bar with our fellow Lounge Lizards ordering their own.
In need of a snack, our knowing mixologist suggested we choose the Boursin cheese fondue ($8) — "fun" due to the regulars — and a crab cake ($12).
With perfect execution by the kitchen, both of Chad's suggestions hit the mark. The fondue was a rich mixture of artichoke and Boursin cheese paired with fresh, warm tortilla chips for dipping. The crab cake was equally good. Unlike many crab cakes that are heavy on breading and fillers, this was a robust, meaty cake lightly breaded and seared on the outside creating a crisp, crunchy outer shell that held in the flavor perfectly, protecting a moist, flaky center. Paired with the bacon and celery root puree that accompanies it made for a perfect combination the Lounge Lizards didn't want to end.
Both appetizers were great for sharing and for pairing with a cocktail or glass of wine.
The tag line on Mela's Web site says it all: "Life is too short to be squandered on ordinary food." Agreed, and we can't wait to return to sample the great service, food and beverages — a hidden gem in Springfield and one of the best experiences we've had this year. In fact, three days later, Alexis had her husband take her back to Mela's dining room for dinner, which was everything she hoped for.
Chad Hess' "Pama Woo" recipe:
2 oz. vodka
2 oz. Pama
2 oz. peach schnapps
3 oz. cranberry juice
splash of Sprite
