Belleville Eats and Drinks

As reported in today's Belleville News Democrat, a new mexican restaurant may be coming to Belleville.

The former Quebec City Bistro site in Belleville is expected to become a Mexican restaurant.

Javier Gutierrez, a chef with Laredo's Mexican restaurant in Fairview Heights, has reportedly rented the former French-themed eatery at 108 E. A St.
Gutierrez said he is unsure when his place would open because he is still in the early stages of planning. But he said he

-----Original Message-----
From: klamons@charter.net [mailto:klamons@charter.net]
Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2006 5:33 PM
To: klamons50@hotmail.com
Subject: Mardi Gras Party at Ravissant Winery

Come and help us celebrate Mardi Gras with our first annual "Magnifique Masquerade Ball", next Saturday, February 25th, from 8pm-12am! Join us as we feast, New Orleans style....

House Salad with Champagne Dressing
Jambalaya
Andouillie Sausage
Pork Loin with Bourbon Glaze
Muffuletta Sandwiches
Cajun Red Potatoes, with Corn and Crawfish
Red Beans and Rice
Peel and eat Shrimp
Crawfish

Then dance the night away in the winery with live music by the Rich McDonough Blues Band, featuring New Orleans' own, Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne. They'll keep the place rockin' with the sounds of the Big Easy.

We will also have an open wine bar all evening (includes soft drinks)! Reservations are $65.00 per person or $125.00 per couple. Besides the buffet, unlimited wine & soda and live music, the price also includes lots of beads and a deluxe mask (And I'm not talking the little plastic ones, these are fancy! We'll also have many different ones to choose from). Everyone will also receive a Magnifique Masquerade Ball commerative wine glass. Space is limited to 150 people, so please call or email me by this Friday (2/17) to let me know if you are coming. I don't need payment by then, but would like it by the 25th (it makes it easier, so we don't have to collect money at the door). Some people who have already RSVP'd have indicated they're getting a tux/gown. So, feel free to dress up. However, black tie is optional, so don't feel you have to be formal. Just come and have fun!

See you on the 25th!
Matt & Kristine Lamons
Ravissant Winery
5950 Town Hall Road
Belleville, IL 62223
618-233-WINE
www.ravissantwinery.com

As reported in the Belleville News Democrat, my favorite bbq joint (Big Mama's Bbq) is adding two new locations. They are opening an additional location outside the main gate at Scott AFB and one at Clinton Hill golf course.

In case you've never visited, Big Mama's serves some of the best bbq around.

From the Belleville News Democrat:

The Ambrosia Restaurant opened Thursday in the former site of Viviano's in Wade Square.

Ambrosia will serve Mexican, Italian, French and other foods, including American barbecue and burgers, according to owners Joe Lima, Victor Velasco and Jose Zaragoza. The trio met at Casa Gallardo in Fairview Heights, where Lima was executive chef....

Stopped by there last night and picked up a menu. It appears they have a bar with a few beers on tap and most menu entrees appeared to be in the $7 - $12 range.

-----Original Message-----
From: klamons@charter.net [mailto:klamons@charter.net]
Sent: Wednesday, February 08, 2006 12:27 PM
To: klamons50@hotmail.com
Subject: Chocolate Festival at Ravissant Winery

Join us this Saturday (2/11) for our Wine & Chocolate Lover's Festival!

**Wine Tasting**
**Samplings of a Variety of Chocolates and Desserts**
**Souvenir Wine Glass**

$10.00 admission charge

While you're out, try our new Warm Embrace wine. It's spiced with cinnamon and can be served chilled or warmed up in a crockpot to keep you snuggly on these cold winter nights.

Try chocolates and desserts from ... Sweeties Confections, Roy-El Catering, Time for Dinner and Gelato Di Riso.

There will also be additional chocolates and other Valentine's Day gifts available for purchase.

The festival runs from 11am-6pm. So stop by anytime, reservations not needed.

Cheers!
Matt & Kristine LaMons
Ravissant Winery
5950 Town Hall Road
Belleville, IL 62223
618-233-WINE
www.ravissantwinery.com

Welcome to eatbelleville.blogspot.com, we look forward to keeping you current on the happenings of local eating and drinking establishments.