Date Visited:  October 4, 2012

After work tonight, we needed a quick break to lick our wounds from the first part of the week.  We cured the wounds with a glass of wine each, Sauvignon Blanc for Jeff and La Crema Chardonnay for Pam.  They have an ample selection of wines by the glass, as well as others by the bottle.

We started with a dozen oysters on the half shell, which were very good, of decent size and great flavor.  We paired the oysters with an order of ceviche.  It has a great mix of snapper and shrimp marinaded in lime juice with mirepoix (“Holy Trinity”).  The ceviche was fresh and delicious with the only negative being it was a bit saucy.

To end our meal, we moved to something we hadn’t tried before…the Gumbo Pizza, with crab, mozzarella cheese and a dark roux.  It is nice with the right balance of flavors for most, although Jeff added a little Crystal hot sauce for his taste.  It’s like a cup of gumbo, but better, and less healthy.  We would definitely suggest trying it.  We decided to grab a nice glass of red with the pizza, with a Malbec for Pam and a Syrah for Jeff.

You just can’t go wrong with Tony Mandola’s for great food and great service!!  Hint:  Sunday Jazz Brunch is a great time to visit, with wonderful live music from Yvonne Washington.

Menu Link:  http://www.tonymandolas.com/tony-mandolas-menu.php

1212 Waugh Drive
Houston, TX 77019
(713) 528-3474
http://www.tonymandolas.com/