Wednesday May 4 Heading out on short adventure

Jane had an early morning meeting for planning the centennial celebration of the Red Cross in Northeast TN so we delayed our departure until after that. We pulled out of the driveway at 9:45 and headed off for our short escape to the Gulf Coast.

We made a short stop west of Knoxville for a quick wash of the Sprinter – had to get rid of all the winter grime!  After that and a quick lunch stop we headed on south through Chattanooga and then on to Birmingham and our planned stop in Birmingham. Nice sunny day with a breeze.  No blue bonnets along the road like our trip last year to Texas but there was a very pretty purple phlox like flower blooming along the roadway.

This trip is half camping and half free stays with our bank card points at hotels.  Our stop in Birmingham was to try for Sukyaki at the same location where we found it several years ago.  The restaurant is under new managment but when Ben called them they assured him they had sukiyaki. We found the location but alas no sukayki – we chose tempura instead.  We had a samuri salad – made by the sushi chefs – it was a combination of crab, shrimp, avocado and mango – how could that not be great?  It was super good.  Then the shrimp and vegetable tempura – while not a traditional breading was very good. Great dinner but not exactly what Ben had on his mind. Food photos included for our foodie friends who always ask!  You know who you are!

We stayed at a Drury Inn. New chain for us and very nice.  Nice suite, bathroom, living area and bedroom.

Samuri Salad

Shrimp Tempura