Winner, winner, chicken liver: lunch at The Black Sheep

Wow. Today, I ate the most delicious sub-- no, BATTLESHIP-- in my life. Before you read on, do me one favor and promise yourself you'll visit this place as soon as possible.

Located at 901 W. Marshall St. and run by talented chef/owner Kevin Roberts, The Black Sheep is a quirky restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The walls are adorned with eclectic artworks and a huge "black sheep"s head. Even the furniture is interesting and full of personality: my cousin E settled on a church pew across from me, while I sat on what used to be a park bench. Black Sheep is also known for their unique lamps and salt and pepper shakers (forgive me for all of these phone pics. I didn't take my camera).

The menu is creative but grounded in familiarity, topped off with a French-N'awlins twist. Actually, there are various cultural influences: dishes like the Shrimp Saganaki appetizer ($8) and Lamb Kebab entree ($14) can be found on the dinner menu. Prices are very reasonable, and the ingredient quality is top-notch (and local when possible). Although the place is known for its huge "Battleships" (imagine a sub on steroids that is also sprinkled with fairy dust, all made in a perfect fantasy land where edibles are magically delicious), everything has gotten great reviews. Today, my cousin and I tried some Battleships. I CANNOT wait to go again. And again... and again. I think I'll ask to go here for my birthday.

...And baby Jesus' birthday?

Beverages are served in wide, stocky glasses that make you feel small and awesome. It's like you're drinking out of a bowl but people don't look at you funny! Perfect pairing with your humongous Battleship.

I got the CSS Virginia ($9): "fried chicken livers served in toasted french baguette with shredded cabbage, green onions, granny smith apple, & remoulade sauce." Lemme tell you something. I've never tried chicken livers, nor have I had Louisiana-style remoulade... BUT I THINK I'M IN LOVE. The livers were breaded and fried to perfection: wonderfully crunchy on the outside, not greasy, and creamy on the inside. The remoulade was bursting with fresh lemon juice, zingy whole grain mustard and pure deliciousness. The baguette was everything a baguette should be; reminded me of the times I'd walk to the local bakery in Courcouronnes (umm, the mayor was hot, btw) to buy warm baguettes and pan au chocolat.

Ok, seriously. This thing is no joke. I'd guess it's about 2 ft long.

My cousin ordered the USS Cumberland ($9): "roasted eggplant & white bean spread, roasted red peppers, black olives, spinach & an herb cucumber tomato salad." I believe she enjoyed it very much. Didn't snap a pic.

"All come with a knife for doing battle & a napkin to signify your surrender."

Both of us ended up "surrendering" after eating about 1/2 of the monstrosities and got the rest wrapped up to go. We split La Brea Tarpit ($4) for dessert: "dark chocolate crème brûlée with animal crackers captured in the bruleed top." Pretty much the best crème brûlée I've ever had. The custard was cool and rich underneath the crackly brûlée, and the animal crackers complemented the whole thing with a buttery, crunchy bite. The desserts are made in-house, and all of them seem drool-worthy. Also, I've gotta mention that our server was attentive and made sure our dining experience was smooth.

I have so many more good things to say about this place, and I'll probably write about The Black Sheep again, but for now I bid you adieu. And PLEASE!!!!! For the sake of your forlorn stomach, taste buds, and whole being, CHECK THIS PLACE OUT!


Cheers,
T

P.S. Keep in mind that I write this only having tried very little of the menu, but I have high hopes with good word from trusty sources.

The Black Sheep
901 W. Marshall St. Richmond, VA 23220
(804) 648-1300
Mon-Thur: 9am-9pm; Fri-Sat: 9am-10pm; Sun: 9am-8pm
www.theblacksheeprva.com
Take-out available.