Thursday night was the kickoff to our Memorial Day Weekend! The Renaissance Man and I both took Friday off work so that we could maximize our weekend, be on the look out for upcoming yard improvement posts. To celebrate we decided to try out the Babica Hen Café. Driving by on OR99W, you’ll notice their large vegetable garden and friendly chickens.

This one hen had her eye on me. She was probably thinking to herself, “Look at the crazy eye (my camera) on that hen!”

The Babica Hen Café is located at the southwest end of town in a newer commercial development that also houses The Inn at Red Hills. I love the look of the building, with the cobblestone façade and arch elements in the pitched roof, it feels like a rustic chateau.

Inside the first thing that catches your eye is the stunning wine cellar. So many bottles on display!

The items on the menu rotate depending on what produce is in season, which is great for locals like us, who are always looking to try something new! We both decided to have a glass of wine and split the Baked Crab and Artichoke Dip appetizer. I had a glass of the 2011 WillaKenzie Estate Pinot Blanc, which was the perfect balance to the rich crab dip. Look at the cheesy goodness on the bread, it was delicious!

We sat at the back of the restaurant in a booth, and got to check out what was going on in the kitchen. For me an open kitchen is always a huge plus, I just love seeing a busy kitchen and everyone working together!

For dinner I had the Blue Cheese Bacon Chopped Salad, and The Renaissance Man had the Bucatini Carbonara. We were so excited and hungry that we dug in before I remembered to take a picture! I did however take lots of pictures of all their beautifully canned vegetables. Totally impressed.

The fried egg on top of the Bucatini Carbonara really made the dish, I had several bites of The Renaissance Man’s entrée, and the creamy egg yolk over the fresh pasta was divine. Good thing he’s was willing to share! My other favorite item was the cornbread, it was the perfect balance of corn flavor with a bit of sweetness, it reminded me of being back in Nashville!

Everything was so well seasoned that we didn’t need any salt or pepper, but I certainly enjoyed their presence on our table.

Hope everyone has a good Holiday Weekend!