Melanie selects tea at Houlihan's

My friend Melanie was in town this weekend and we decided to have lunch at Houlihan's which is just a stone's throw from my place.  I like Houlihan's because the prices are moderate and their potato soup is the epitome of comfort food.

The best potato soup in the city.

But the thing I really like about Houlihan's is that they put a lot of thought into their presentations. I know some people would consider it a waste of time and effort to present food in a manner that feeds the spirit, but we found it very filling.  Take, for instance, their new appetizer made up of three different dips served with chips and crispy brushetta.

New appetizer.  A trio of dips.

Three long-stemmed glasses filled with artichoke, white bean, and red pepper dip are delivered to the table in a wrought iron holder.  (Melanie and I found it hard to pick a favorite of the three).  Our server was delightful and you could tell he understood just what a treat his presentation was for us.

If you're trying to figure out where to grab a bite to eat, or if you want to get together with your friends, Houlihan's is a great choice.  They also have a sports bar.