Sweet Melissa's--Rocky River, OH [$$]

Last week, we went to Sweet Melissa's in Rocky River.  While waiting to be seated we admired the elaborate reflective gold ceiling and the fancy lighting.  We commented on the place's popularity, being two of about fifty plus other people (women) stopping in for lunch that day.  Though quite crowded, we were promptly seated and served with finesse.  Upon being seated, we noticed the customized glass water jugs, which with frosted letters spelled "Sweet Melissa's" down the front.  We thought this was a very nice touch.

Since Shannon's palate is slightly limited as a vegetarian, this menu was aptly mapped out with asterisks marking the vegetarian and vegan territories.  Grace, who usually can't pass up a beef dish, opted instead for "Roger's Shrimp Tacos."  Shannon, following suit, ordered "Tim's Veggie Tacos."  Each of us ordered a side to start since we were very hungry.  Grace ordered her fan favorite, a grilled Caesar salad.  Shannon ordered a cup of Veggie stew.  Shannon cannot pass up a vegetarian soup.

Although it didn't have croutons, which Grace thought was customary for a Caesar salad, she was surprised to find the romaine lettuce charred and, well, literally grilled. This was a new concept to her. She really liked it and thought it was very innovative. The dressing was lemony and the dish was overall very satisfactory. :)

Shannon's stew came in an adorable teacup, with a seasoned and toasted slice of bread on the saucer.  The stew was a hearty blend including tomatoes, beans, and chick peas, in a thick spicy-sweet broth.  Shannon, as a die-hard soup-lover, quite enjoyed this stew.  The cup was the perfect amount for a such a filling soup.

Now for taco time! We each received three tacos, which reminded us of another West Side restaurant, Deagan's in Lakewood, which also has both vegetarian and shrimp tacos. This did not hinder our opinion of Sweet Melissa's in the slightest. Upon first bite, we were both delighted by our choices. The shrimp tacos definitely had a kick to them. Mingled among the soft taco were charred tomatoes and seemingly exotic lettuce, though the menu did not specify beyond "lettuce."  The shrimp tasted of cayenne pepper, and Grace's sinuses were certainly cleared by the end of her meal.  The taco also featured guacamole.  Grace, as an avid avocado enthusiast (who often even asks for extra) was delighted by this accoutrement.  Shannon's tacos were also found to be quite zesty.  The fried tofu, guacamole and pico was divine and paired perfectly with the sour cream which tamed the spice considerably.  Shannon was disappointed that one taco shell was split in half and made cutlery necessary, and the taco head tilt needless.  The taste was still impeccable!

Roger's Shrimp Tacos

Grilled Caesar Salad and Veggie Stew

Tim's Veggie Tacos

Awesome water jug!

In the end, Grace said "Good choice Shannon!" for picking this first spot to have lunch.  The menu featured so many other items that sounded delicious, so we'll be back for seconds!