Wonderful Atmosphere, Service and Carrot Cake
by Mary Simkins

Carson’s American Bistro, on Plymouth Road in Ann Arbor, brings an upscale atmosphere to family dining, with menu items to fit any budget.  Whether you want seafood or steak (the specialties of the house) or a sandwich, or even macaroni and cheese, the menu and service come together in pursuit of one goal: comfort food.

I started with the corn chowder (with applewood smoked bacon and Vermont cheddar cheese listed as ingredients, how could I not?) and was surprised when it had some serious after-kick spiciness. Deciding on the main course was close to impossible, as everything looked delicious. So, at our server’s suggestion, I ordered the Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Sole, served with garlic mashed potatoes and green beans. It was good, but after the interesting and surprising flavors of the chowder, it came up just a tad on the bland side. However, my friend ordered the Grilled Chicken Club, and particularly enjoyed the house-made herb mayonnaise that accompanied it.

Apart from our excellent service and the relaxed, yet sophisticated, atmosphere, the highlight of our trip to Carson’s was their namesake dessert: Carson’s Carrot Cake. Served over caramel sauce and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the carrot cake was the perfect blend of salty and sweet to finish our meal. Mouth watering yet?

Carson’s will participate in the upcoming Taste of Ann Arbor in June, with lunch specials (half-sandwiches or half slab of ribs with a cup of soup or seasonal berry salad) and dinner specials (half slab of ribs with grilled chicken breast or fettucine alfredo with chicken, and a choice of chocolate or carrot cake).  I’ll be there – the one eating the carrot cake.