Those of you from Lawrence may have noticed the new structure that now towers above the northern end of the University of Kansas campus. The Oread hotel was recently completed and is not fully in operation. With the opening of a new luxury hotel, comes the chance to try some new restaurants in town. My friend Shauna and I took the opportunity while wedding planning, to visit the Bird Dog Bar in the Oread Hotel several weeks ago and we left satisfied and impressed.
We didn’t order anything that was terribly exciting (we both got burgers) but instead of french fries, I ordered the Mac & Cheese as my side. Let me just tell you, this was some of the most amazing mac & cheese I’ve ever had. I actually wanted to get it as my main dish but I’m always hesitant to do that because there are lots of ways for people to screw up mac & cheese and I didn’t want to possibly waste my money on something that was merely mediocre. The Bird Dog’s mac & cheese was anything but mediocre. It was outstanding and the next time I go here, I will absolutely order it as my main dish!
What’s even better about the Bird Dog Grill? Oh, that’s right, the Oread offers free 2 hour valet parking with a purchase from any of its restaurants. That’s pretty awesome on campus, where parking comes at a premium.
Shauna and I also decided to try the roasted red pepper hummus and pita as an appetizer and we weren’t disappointed with that either. The hummus and pita comes with celery, cucumbers and olives and it was really good. I’m not usually a fan of anything with any kind of bell pepper in it, but this was very good and I would definitely try it again.
Overall, the Bird Dog Grill gets my vote for a new restaurant in town that’s got staying potential. I wish them the best of luck and look forward to going back again!