Although Clyde?s Restaurant in Columbia might be difficult to find ? it?s situated behind a bunch of developing condos and offices in Wincopin Circle ? it?s worth the hunt. The American-fare restaurant and bar has long been a staple of the community since it?s opening in 1975 ? just eight years after Columbia?s founding. Since then, Clyde?s has hosted business lunches, shoppers from the nearby Mall in Columbia and singles.
» The scene: Clyde?s sits directly in front of Lake Kittamaqundi, making for a beautiful scene in warmer seasons. The raised bar is situated in the middle of the restaurant, which has a casual setting, vintage framed art and an outdoor cafe in summer. Although at times the restaurant can get loud, there is seating farther back that provides a more private dining experience.
» The pour: For brunch, mimosas and bloody Marys were available, but we opted for hot tea instead. Lemon-ginger, chamomile and tangy raspberry flavors were offered.
» The taste: We began with a serving of cinnamon sweet bread and chocolate chip coffee cake, plated with butter. Both were tasty but nothing to write home about.
The brunch menu featured breakfast foods and lunch entrees, as well as salads, soups and burgers. I opted for eggs Chesapeake, which consisted of a crab cake and poached egg sandwiched between a toasted English muffin and drizzled with Hollandaise sauce. The meal comes with breakfast potatoes fried with strips of onion. While the Hollandaise was a little sour, the crab cake was seasoned well and made for a filling entree.
The crab-cake sandwich came on a fresh bun and was served with seasonal fruit ? melon and pineapple. Nothing to brag about here ? the sandwich was about as basic as they come.
» The finishing touch: Our generous portion of creme brulee came with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a cinnamon stick. Crunchy and warm on the top, creamy and cool in the middle, the dessert was so good we took another one home.
» Don?t miss: The cream-of-crab soup. The thick soup came sprinkled with Old Bay and big lumps of crabmeat. Spicy and hot, the soup is the perfect appetizer. But be careful ? just one bowl can fill you up enough so that you don?t need an entree.
» Why you will go: The staff is amazingly friendly, helpful and responsive. Our waiter was attentive and knowledgeable, answering our questions patiently and recommending his favorite desserts.
» Why you won?t: Unfortunately, the seating isn?t the best. We felt really crammed in, and departing patrons were just barely squeezing by our table. Ask for a booth.
If you go
Clyde?s of Columbia
» Where: 10221 Wincopin Circle, Columbia
» Prices: $8 to $25 for entrees; $6 to $12 for appetizers and dessert
» Info: www.clydes.com; 410-730-2829
