Best of 2012



As I ring in 2013 and wrap-up my first year in the Gump, I am inspired by fellow blogger, Isabel, over at Pretty Tasty Things, to create a best-of-2012 post. For me, personally, 2012 was a year of transition. I got my dream job, with a catch: I had to leave behind my big-city life and beloved friends in Washington, DC and relocate to the Heart of Dixie. Talk about culture shock! Before moving, my only connections to Alabama were my Alabama-bred boyfriend (who I had met and eventually lived with in DC), and a small work-related connection (that turned into a full-blown job opportunity). 
 



(Photos: Entrance to Montgomery's Riverfront Park, Dinner and Cocktail Menus at Central.)

A year later, I am incredibly grateful for new Alabama friends that have delivered fun times, laughter, and much-needed support. Lucky for me, my job is still my dream job. And, after ten months of racking up frequent flier miles between Montgomery and Washington, DC, my boyfriend found his own exciting work opportunity here in Montgomery and moved into our little 1920s-era craftsman bungalow.

When my out-of-town friends ask me what I think about Montgomery, they always seem to reject my first, positive response, asking again, "Now, what do you REALLY think?"  Well, what I REALLY think is that Montgomery is a city bursting with young professionals, young families, and meaningful jobs tied to the state capitol.  Over my past year in the Gump, to my great surprise, I often found myself choosing between multiple and conflicting cultural, foodie and outdoors events and activities (restaurant openings, festivals, shopping and antiquing, fundraisers, wine tastings, football parties, hikes, invitations to the lake and even an invitation to go hunting).  We are a capital city on the rise, and I'm excited to see the city grow and refine itself each day.  As I write this, there are countless new Montgomery developments in the mix (new eateries, a plan to bring back curbside recycling, and a new series of events for young professionals at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts). 

 

So, without further adieu, let me get to the meat of this post: BEST OF 2012 IN THE GUMP.

BEST NEWCOMER: TRUE: Farm-Inspired Seasonal Cuisine from Chef Wesley True. Try the spiced lamb meatloaf, which I hear is only on the menu for another few weeks.  Also of interest: rotating wine-by-the-glass specials, Tuesday night half-priced wine bottles, Chef's Tasting Menu (available upon 24-hour notice).  But, for me, it's about the little things:  black cloth napkins that don't make a mess of your black skirt or pants; Chef True's exuberance and desire to constantly push the envelope; and the hospitality and wine recommendations of trained sommelier Bobbi Heithoff, chef True's wife and trusted partner.

Spiced lamb meatloaf, fresh local greens
and sommelier-selected wine at TRUE.

BEST POST-WORK HAPPY HOUR: Railyard Brewing Company. Delish and wallet-friendly food, beer and wine specials, including amazing pimento cheese fries and house-made microbrews.  Great for large groups.

BEST FOODIE EVENT: A tie between the Front Porch Revival's stop in Montgomery and the Lions Club-sponsored Chili Cookoff, which boasted a great location at Riverwalk Stadium and chili from downtown's hottest chefs.

BEST PIZZA:  Hands-down, the "Sicilian" pizza at Tomatinos.  I dream about this drool-worthy pizza, with its zesty goat cheese, carmelized onions and homemade meatballs.

BEST CULTURE: The ever-changing and inspiring exhibits at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Art.  Our hometown art museum has a vast and growing collection, top-notch staff and volunteers, and an ability to attract prestigious exhibits that most larger cities would envy. And, MMFA hosts a bevvy of fun events to attract young professionals: look out for its new Mixed Media membership and corresponding quarterly events in 2013.

Smiling with filmmaker Andrew Grace
at the Capri Theater in Old Cloverdale.

BEST MOVIE THEATER: Our beloved arthouse theater, the Capri, is an obvious choice for this category, but it didn't get here by resting on its laurels.  The Capri earns its spot in the Best of 2012 for its special events and offerings throughout the year, including the local premiere of "Eating Alabama" featuring a discussion with filmmaker Andrew Grace and a crowded theater filled with local farmers and suppliers who made appearances in the film.

BEST HOT-WEATHER ALTERNATIVE TO "THE LAKE" OR "THE BEACH":  The Renaissance Montgomery's rooftop pool.  Can you say, "aaaahhhhhh?"  To gain access to the pool, buy a spa-pass for the day or sign up for the annual fitness club/spa membership, which grants you access to the gym, pool, and spa areas, including the indoor hot tub, sauna and relaxation rooms.

BEST WORKOUT:  Zumba at the Dance Fitness Center with Heather and Lily. 
See my previous post about the DFC's offerings, known to cause a "Zumba High." 

It would be impossible to list every fantastic thing about Montgomery in this post, but I hope it gives you a flavor of the fun, foodie and friendly activities and businesses Montgomery has to offer.  There are so many other great experiences I wish I could mention here, such as the famed "Cowboy Christmas" party, great wine recommendations from Ted and Scotty at Ted the Wine Guy, etc., but I will have to save those for future posts in 2013 and beyond. 
 
Happy new year, y'all, from Girl Meets Gump!