Kelley Jean's in Goshen

The term, "ladies night" seems to have been tarnished to the point I hesitate to use it when describing a dinner date exclusively with my female friends I have known since elementary school.  Ladies night sounds like it involves raunchy or "Girls Gone Wild" behaviors and really, if one of us drops an "F-bomb" or two when passionately telling a story, that is the extent of the potential for an R rating evening.  In fact, the hour we meet (6 p.m.) is enough to prove we are not hard core and really are out to chat and share a good meal. We did try to plan this excursion around seeing a school friend, but that part didn't work out.

Only 1 of us has been to Kelley Jean's before and I have to admit, I was quite pleased by the building and location.  As I take a photo of the exterior, a couple arrives behind us and offers to take a group photo of us. We are happy for the opportunity and I have to say, I love that they were only mildly technologically challenged using my phone's camera and more than willing to take a few extra shots in case we weren't wildly in love with some of our poses.

We have a reservation, but on this particular evening it seems it would have been fine if we just showed up seeking a table for 4.  

Outside patio dining seems to be an option and is something to keep in mind as the season continues to change and the sunshine lasts a little longer each day.

Cocktails to begin the evening include 2 raspberry/lemon drinks, my Cosmopolitan and a glass of wine. Cheers!

Stories of teen children, grown children, college-aged children and their adventures.  A parent never stops worrying, being concerned, comparing notes and checking with other mom's they trust.  Learning to drive, social media privacy, studying abroad, and the acceptable age gap between dating boys and girls are just some of the topics.

Irish Loaded "Nachos"

Our appetizer of waffle fries topped with cheese, corned beef and scallions arrives.  A welcome change from typical choices and being able to pull from the community plate allows us to determine our individual portion size.  The fries are crisp and the corned beef tender.  I'm not a huge fan of this particular cheese variety, but it does allow for generous dipping.

When dining out with my family, they are quite accustomed to taking a photo of their own plate with my phone.  I only hesitate for a second with my friends, who are familiar with the Fed Well blog, and ask them to indulge me as well.  No flash is used to disturb other diners and by passing the phone, it keeps the activity fairly low key and at minimal distraction to anyone sitting nearby.

I ask our server which are the most popular dishes and the first dish she names is the Bacon Cheeseburger. A list of specials are also available in addition to a menu with options ranging from eggplant ravioli to hanger steak and wraps.

Salmon topped Cesar Salad

Cobb Salad with Chicken

 Kelley Jean's Bacon Cheeseburger

Cali-Burger:  Burger, bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado and mayo.

We are all happy with the taste and generous portion sizes.  Additional dressing was requested and brought over fairly quickly, drinks were offered and/or refilled and we were checked on once we started eating.  

Not in any rush, we were able to relax and continue socializing without feeling the pressure of a long line of customers waiting for our table.  The bar area began to fill, but the atmosphere remained one of a restaurant rather than a sports bar.  

No table dancing, loud inappropriate swearing or behaviors were exhibited during our "Ladies Night." With no room for dessert, we divide the check equally and are disappointed to not see our classmate. Doesn't mean we didn't have a great time.  We are already considering where our next evening out adventure and destination may be from a short list of area restaurants.  Our stories will continue during the drive back to our cars and we feel Fed Well.