If Ricky Ricardo retired in Lakewood, he’d probably try the White Swan Café. It is, yes, a Cuban restaurant.
Neither the name nor the exterior of the pink and white shop at 2307 Abrams is any indication of what’s inside. Upon entering, however, you are taken into an ethnic atmosphere of the West Indies. The burnt orange walls with colorful paintings and plants lend to the elegant style.
A chalkboard up front lists numerous daily specials. The menu begins with Tapas, a Spanish appetizer. I recommend the stuffed artichoke ($7.95); it easily can be a meal in itself. Try this appetizer with one of the salads, and you’re set. You might also try the crab cakes ($6.95).
For soups, choose among black bean, tortilla and seafood gumbo ($2.95 each). The main dishes come under five headings, including Creole, Cuban, Mexican, Italian and Spanish specialties, ranging in price from $9.95 to $14.95.
The Cuban selections are plentiful; one of the best is Arroz Con Pollo (chicken and rice). The dish easily serves two, and it’s very rich. The Bistec De Palomilla is a grilled ribeye steak served with fresh vegetables.
The combo leads the Mexican specialties, serving up shrimp, quesadillas, beef and spinach enchiladas, and chili relleno.
The White Swan’s sautéed chicken tops the Spanish list; it’s chicken breast sautéed in butter, onions, mushrooms and wine, served with black beans on white rice.
And don’t forget the dessert list: Try the Kahlua cake or apple crumb pie. Of course, the pecan pie and fudge upside down cake are nothing to ignore, either. Prices range from $2.95 to $3.95 per serving, with whole desserts also available for takeout.
The wines are a select group, with prices from moderate to expensive. Simpatico and Corona head the beer list, which includes Crazy Ed’s Frog light and Black Mountain Beer.
My mother probably would love the food here, but spicy foods don’t like her, so this is one place she’ll have to miss.
Happy eating until next time.
The White Swan, 2307 Abrams, is open from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday, and Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday hours are 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.).
Restaurant Notes
General China Restaurant, 1920 Skillman at Live Oak, recently opened in the Skillman/Live Oak Shopping Center. The restaurant features all-you-can-eat lunch and dinner buffets, as well as menu selections and takeout service.
Le Cour’s Bleu Front, 2221 Abrams, is now open for breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon.
