Corpus Christi

I know that there are good things to eat along the Texas Gulf coast. Certainly the old city of Corpus Christi has long been a place where one might find  good food and drink. However, after last nights debacle at Snoopy’s my faith was severely shaken.

Normally I don’t like to give a negative review. I realize that on any given night it’s possible to make mistakes on some dishes. But last night’s meal was so bad, so depressing, and so unlike any experience that I’ve had in Corpus Christi, that I am compelled to speak out. Fortunately there is a silver lining at the end so bear with me.

First, the bad stuff. Snoopy’s fish and  shrimp tasted of old grease. The chips were limp, the hush puppies cold. The slaw was good, but the portion was minuscule. I felt queasy all evening and consumed 3 Pepto Bismols. Not to mention the severe depression at having driven all the way out to the island and having to sit where the smell was like the wet fur of an unwashed dog rather than the pungent smell of salty seaweed and good cooking.

This morning I walked across the street to the City Diner on Water Street not far from the beautiful shoreline in downtown Corpus. The sign said “Open for Breakfast at 7 AM”, but the door was still closed. We were going to walk away, but the door opened behind us and we were persuaded to come in with many apologies. Inside, the black and white tile and the general decor is like a genuine old fashioned downtown diner. So was the good breakfast. The hash-browns were excellent, not greasy, the egg turned perfectly, and the wheat toast buttered out to the edge. The coffee was fresh and rich in flavor.

 Our waiter recommended the meat loaf for lunch since “we hand make it ourselves fresh everyday,” he assured me. “The grilled amber jack is really our best dish,” he went on, “but I wanted to make sure that you had the opportunity to try something that we make from the ground up.”

Amazing how this simple act of good will, well served food, and a friendly conversation turned our impressions around. Now I find that I am looking forward to the rest of my stay on the Bay Front. I will try and forget Snoopy and suggest you do also. If you come to Corpus Christi, Texas, look up the City Diner and Oyster Bar at 622 N. Water Street and enjoy yourself.