| by Rachel Alper | 12/03/08 | 21 views |
Students make their way down to Main Street in search of nourishment to cure their hunger. Rarely do they go past Trabant and travel down to The Deer Park for anything other than beer. Situated on the corner of Main Street and New London Road, Deer Park is a friendly college restaurant, perfect for satisfying the munchies of late night drinking.
Newark history adorns the walls, from football helmets signed by head football coach K.C. Keeler. The lighting accents the rich wood detail around the door frames and stairs, as well as the antique floor; all of which could probably speak of the many good nights shared there by students.
With a reputation as an evening hangout - local cover bands bring crowds of taking over, from the legendary Stone Balloon that was demolished almost three years ago. It might have mug nights covered, but the food is another story.
The appetizers are the things to stick with at The Deer Park. From crispy, perfectly cooked mozzarella sticks to the rich crab and artichoke dip that complimented the French baguette beautifully, the plate was almost licked clean. The chili was a good balance of beef, beans, and tomatoes with just the right amount of heat to create a perfect harmony.
Despite The Deer Park’s reputation as a burger paradise, our burger arrived more burnt than well done, with a hard shell covering the soft meat. It was also small with only a handful of golden fries. Already saddened by the letdown, the Chicken Florentine sent us into deep depression. Overcooked, lacking taste, the accompanying risotto was mushy on the outside, hard on the inside –almost the opposite of the burger and the broth it was sitting in was overpowered white wine. The spinach, however, was cooked to perfection, just wilted with a good mix of onion and garlic.
The best meal was the newest addition to the menu, macaroni and cheese. The mix of the Alfredo cheese and ham came together wonderfully in my mouth. The crusty top replicated mom’s homemade mac and cheese, but this went above that. The cheese, the noodles and the ham melted together to create a meal college students can appreciate when homesick, even though it was on the small side.
Dessert was nothing special. The Deer Park had all the typical options such as crème brulee, cheesecake and ice cream. The double chocolate brownie with lots of hot fudge, vanilla ice cream, rich, chocolately brownie, more vanilla ice cream and whipped topping layered in a wine goblet was devoured quickly. Though a typical pick among college students, it still hit the chocolate spot.
Another good night with friends ends as we exit The Deer Park, just another story for the floors and walls to tell. While this was not the best meal Deer Park has offered me, it still shows the simple, greasy favorites of college students are the best thing about Deer Park.
Rating:
2 out of 4
     
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University of Delaware
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