Local Voices: New Restaurant's Prime Dips Are No Laughing Matter

You know those days where a friend pulls you aside to talk, and in your conversation you talk about a product or a business and you find yourself playfully challenged or dared to go try it?

Well, we’ve all heard about lately right? This is one of those places that continue to pop up in friendly conversation, and a certain couple that I adore challenged me to try its “Godly French Prime Dip.” How could I refuse, right?

So, I being up for the challenge, I went into Redmond’s Bar and Grill and was immediately greeted by Ander Larson, co-owner of the establishment. This guy knows how to treat a customer, as well as the little ones. Ander knew that my almost-3 year old wouldn’t last long waiting for food, so by the time she was done coloring on her holiday-oriented color sheet, he personally brought her out a plate of fries and took the time to talk to her about her day. This truly meant the world to me—not only did he take the time to get to know us, but as I watched him move around the restaurant and bar area, I saw him take the time to talk to as many of his customers as possible. This was an amazing thing to watch.

As Larson asked people how their food was, there seemed to be a unanimous phrase: “killer food.” You know it’s good when there’s slang associated with it, right? What is equally amazing is that I have met his partner in crime, Tim Short, and the man behind the “killer food,” Chris Nelson. I have watched all three of them take the time to get to know their customers, which definitely shows me that this is a good community-oriented establishment. I almost felt like I was walking into a modern-day Cheers. I have only been into the establishment a few times, and they remember my name. Yes I know, corny, but seriously: Awesome!

Head Chef Chris Nelson has put together a spectacular menu and this French Prime Dip is no ordinary sandwich. Attention, guys and gals: smoked onions, seared prime rib is the real beef in this marriage, Swiss cheese smothered together on a French roll with auju on the side. When the sandwich arrived at the table I was greeted by a loving aroma of the prime rib and smoked onions, and my mouth was literally watering by the time I could say thank you.

Let me tell you one word here folks: Foodgasmic. The beef was so tender and flavorful that the accompaniment of smoked onions played the perfect complement to the subtle flavors of the prime rib. By the time my taste buds were absorbing that, I was eyeing the auju in the side bowl wondering if anyone would mind that I would be slurping down the auju to get to the meat that had fallen in. I am normally not a French dip girl, but guess what: I would probably tackle my husband if he was eating one right now. Yes, they are that good!

I took one to-go to surprise my husband, and he was in heaven and was actually disappointed that I didn’t order two sandwiches. If it wasn’t bad enough I was giving him the hairy eyeball for eating the French dip in front of me, he was ready to go back and order more to-go. So much for the diet, right? Lord help me, I have a new addiction. And for the side humor, my husband is cheering in the background. Hats off to Chef Chris Nelson—the hard work and dedication that you have put into your menu has really paid off. We will be there soon for more of those French Prime Dips; for the love of all that is mighty never remove this dish from your menu. There may be a protest out front if you do!

This unique bar and grill has cornered the market on its signature dishes, the French dip is one, but how about I tell you another? Please try a cup of the signature Northwest Chowder. The crew would only agree to acknowledge the ingredients that I could pick out from their secret recipe: smoked salmon, a white roux with some special seasonings and sauces that I can’t put my finger on, clams and bacon. This is one of the most flavorful, well put together chowders in town. The creamy soup is a texture adventure land, and I would love to know what you think about it.

And to clarify any confusion, this place is definitely family friendly. This isn’t just a tavern or run-of-the-mill bar with bar food. It is a unique dining experience catered to anyone. From the individual, to families to business meetings, to holiday parties, they do the work for you. You’ll find yourself in a relaxed and casual atmosphere with an amazing dining experience through the upscale menu that has yet to disappoint me. 

Word is out! New Years Eve Party at Redmond’s! It’s going to be a wonderful evening. If you’re not up for eating some of the “killer food,” the party starts at 9 p.m. You can visit Redmond's website for more information and check out the menu while you are there.