Chicken Scratch Bistro newest on Weatherford’s Square

Food

January 9, 2008

Anonymous The Weatherford Democrat Wed Jan 09, 2008, 08:22 AM CST

By Janis Saunders

Democrat Food Critic

There is another eating establishment open on the Square. What with the courthouse and other eating places, parking will soon be at a premium. We had to circle around twice before we found a parking space, but when we did find it, the space was right in front of the Chicken Scratch.

I’m glad to see the Square bustling again. Brings back memories, doesn’t it?

The dictionary defines a “bistro” as a small or unpretentious restaurant or tavern. I would describe the Chicken Scratch as homey and comfortable. After all, the building used to house a movie theatre. It has been remodeled and is now a tastefully decorated eating place. It still has the high ceiling, but there is now a lovely little fireplace in the middle of one wall with comfy leather chairs around it and then tables around them. The colors and decor are so soothing you want to sit down, have a bite to eat and carry on a conversation with an interesting tablemate. I had Jim.

As soon as we sat down we were asked what we would like to drink. We replied, “tea.” The next question was “sweet or unsweetened?” We gave our answer and then started looking over the menu.

Chicken Scratch has fresh salads, soups, hot and cold sandwiches. quiche and desserts. As usual it took me a while to make up my mind. I couldn’t decide whether to order a salad or sandwich. I finally chose the “Parker County” salad. It consists of grilled sirloin steak, spring greens, artichoke hearts, toasted walnuts and feta cheese with a citrus vinaigrette. It made my mouth water just reading about it. Jim chose the “House” salad. It had baby spinach, greens, romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, onion slices, shredded five-cheese blend and house dressing.

While waiting for our food, we talked with Kenneth Harrison, a son-in-law of Carolyn Stewart, who along with her husband, Bill, is the matriarch of the family. In fact, the restaurant is owned by members of the Stewart family. Kenneth’s wife, Carrie, is a daughter as is Katy Early and husband, Clint. Jennifer Harvey and husband, Randy, then son, Brian, and Jill McGrath.

A lot of the menu items are named after grandkids, so no family member is left out in the cold. When I say this is a family business, it is really a family business.

While we were there I noticed Kenneth and Carrie’s daughter cleaning off one of the tables. She looked like she was about 11 or 12, so she is getting an early start in the family business.

Our food arrived and the presentation was really attractive. When it looks good, the chances of it tasting good are in your favor. My salad was good with plenty of sirloin strips resting on top along with the artichokes and the dressing was on the side which I like. I got to taste of it first to be sure the citrus vinaigrette was good. It was!

Jim’s salad filled the plate and was enough to satisfy a hungry man easily.

The hot and cold sandwiches come with one side, which can be a fruit, potato or pasta salad or Kettle chips.

The two young ladies in the photo were at the Chicken Scratch to eat and talk. The atmosphere of the restaurant lends itself to that easily. By the smiles on their faces, you could tell they were enjoying themselves. They topped off their lunch with slices of pie that looked “good enough to eat!” We’ll try some pie next time we’re there.

You can get espresso, hot or cold, plus frappe (blended coffee) or hot chocolate and other fountain type drinks.

All in all, I think the Chicken Scratch is a good addition to our Square. Their hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. The phone number is (817) 594-6226 or fax (817) 594-6776

Drop in and say hi. (It’ll probably be a family member either greeting you or doing kitchen duty.) Enjoy your dining experience.

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Janis Saunders may be reached at jks4417@aol.com. Columns submitted to The Weatherford Democrat by guest writers reflect the opinions of the writer and in no way reflect the beliefs or opinions of The Weatherford Democrat.

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