Photograph by Catherine Viox
Jackson Rouse, previously of The Rookwood and Bauer Farm Kitchen, took the helm as executive chef at Fifty West Brewpub when it awoke from pandemic slumber in January 2023. The menu takes its cue from Rouse’s versatile palate and, besides the (very good) loaded frites and obligatory burger, the eatery has a bevy of entrées that include pot roast, mussels, and Faroe Island Salmon.
Photograph by Catherine Viox
The lamb meatballs are the perfect dish to savor over drinks with good friends. Rich without being greasy, the lamb is balanced against light, crisp greens in the accompanying wheatberry herb salad. The romesco sauce unites the dish with the tomato’s mild acidity. Creamy goat cheese contrasts the lamb’s savory notes, and the ajika adds a subtle heat that warms the end of each bite. There’s nothing wrong with using your fork, but the dish comes with a large spoon for breaking and scooping up the meatballs onto slices of bread artfully arranged along the rim of the bowl. This technique naturally slows down the pace of your meal, forcing you to spend some quality time with your food. It also creates natural pauses for conversation.
Photograph by Catherine Viox
Something from the wine list may pair nicely with lamb, but you’re at Fifty West Brewing Co., and you’ll make the drafts sad if you don’t consider the Deja Moo milk stout or a Main Street amber ale to go with your meal.
Photograph by Catherine Viox
Fifty West Brewpub, 7668 Wooster Pke., Columbia Twp., (513) 834-8789
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