They don't have a website, no Facebook page, no presence on Foursquare or the HappyHours ap on your Smartphone. But if you live in Como Park you've probably seen their little sign on Lexington: Sparky's Grill.
I had been at the location during the winter months, when the Como Golf Course Clubhouse converts to a ski chalet, renting out cross country gear for Minnesotans hungry to enjoy the beautiful hills and meadows just to the west of Lake Como. But I'd never been to the place in the summer. Considering the area is a culinary deadspot, I didn't have many expectations. I called ahead to make sure they were actually open, and to ask if they had any specials. "I'm not sure," said the man who answered. After a pause he returned to the phone. "Come in tonight and we'll give you two-for-ones."
We got on our bikes and pedaled around the lake, arriving at the chalet--Sparky's--at precisely 7:00. It was a beautiful time of day to arrive, as the sun was still high enough in the sky to illuminate the beautiful ponds and streams and rolling hills of the Como Golf course. Most striking to me was the white pergola and outside seating area which stretched along the entire eastern side of the building. But to our surprise, there were only two customers in the entire establishment. We walked to the bar and inquired about seating, and were told that the kitchen was closed. But, we were told, we could order a beer.
So, we had a beer and complimentary popcorn and had a lovely evening on the deck. A lone golfer finished his game. A chipmunk scurried around our feet picking up the popcorn we had dropped. But I couldn't help but feel that a tremendous opportunity had been dropped in this new establishment.
One, the place was empty at 7 on a Friday night. This is ludicrous considering it has a view that competes with the Liffey's rooftop and Sweeney's backyard patio. Simply put, the view of the golf course was gorgeous and peaceful. Even with mediocre food, it should be a hot spot. This lack of people in such an ideal spot is not Dahlworthy.
Two, the menu advertised two items of some culinary interest--Mahi Mahi tacos and a Caeasar Salad--but otherwise was normal zoo fair such as hot dogs and chicken sandwiches. What golfer is going to want to stick around for a hotdog when his wife has better food at home? And what couple is going to head to Sparky's as a "destination" with this limited menu? While I would like to try the Mahi Mahi, and I will assume it to be good until I hear otherwise, I did chat with the earlier diners about their meals. They had a veggie burger and a chicken sandwich, both of which were judged to be adequate/fine/ok. On a Friday night, in a restaurant with prime real estate, "OK" just doesn't cut it. Not Dahlworthy.
Three, there was free popcorn. This is obviously Dahlworthy and shows that the management is capable of making some good decisions.
Four, they had local beer on tap (I had a Nordeast). Dahlworthy.
Five, the joint doesn't have a website (you can make a free one in about 4 minutes, come on!) nor do they have Facebook presence nor are they on Foursquare or any other social media. No one other than golfers or people driving by even know they exist. Not Dahlworthy.
I will definitely go back again, if for nothing more than to enjoy a beer in a gorgeous location within biking distance of home. However, unless they stay open past 6:30 or they increase their culinary options or market better---or all three---I wonder how sustainable this business is.
I would love to hear from other locals on their take of this new place. What were your expectations? What did you eat and drink? And of course: did you find it Dahlworthy?
No comments:
Post a Comment