Why: Butcher & Baker provides deli-style soup, made-to-order sandwiches and salads at the new Ilani Casino Resort. The menu keeps seasonal items available but diners may also create their own combinations by choosing from La Brea breads freshly baked in-house, meats, spreads and toppings for sandwiches.
What I tried: I settled on the cranberry turkey club and tomato bisque and my dining companion had the sandwich of the day, a French dip, and a side of potato salad. Both sandwiches came with a portion of kettle-style potato chips.
The sandwiches were the highlight of our meal. Both were constructed on fresh baguettes and the sliced meats were lean and appetizingly suited for premium sandwiches. The melted cheese on both sandwiches seeped into each crevice of the bread. The au jus served with the French Dip was salty and rich — perfect for dipping.
The tomato bisque was piping hot and contained nice-sized bits of roasted tomato, though it was a bit bland. My dining companion thought the potato salad paired well with the sandwich for an appetizing meal.
Dining Out review: Butcher & Baker
Hours: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday; 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday; 7 a.m. to 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
Where: Ilani Caniso Resort, 1 Cowlitz Way, Ridgefield.
Contact: 360-768-5452 or www.ilaniresort.com
Health score: The Ilani Casino Resort does not fall under the purview of Clark County Public Health.
Atmosphere: Butcher & Baker is located on the west end of Ilani with the other fast-casual restaurants; diners receive a pager and choose a table in the food court. A brick facade with a colorful painted mural depicts Northwest bounty. Tables are paired with woven upholstered benches and light green chairs. Lighting consists of contemporary pendant fixtures and halogen spots. Trash and tray receptacles are located at the entrance.
Menu highlights beyond what I tried: A caprese baguette, a Greek roast beef and feta sandwich and a Southwest ham ciabatta were on the menu during my visit. Salads included a chicken Waldorf with toasted farro, diced apple, red grapes, celery, toasted walnuts, diced chicken breast and lemon-yogurt dressing, a garden salad and a Greek salad comprised of spring mix, spinach, cucumber, feta, bell pepper, cherry tomato, red onion, Kalamata olives and balsamic dressing. There were also some pre-made salads such as potato, macaroni or broccoli. Cookies and a chocolate mousse cake were available for dessert. Bottled and canned drinks provide beverage options.
Other observations: Service was fast and friendly. The food had made-to-order quality with fresh, premium ingredients and the sandwiches were exceptional.
Cost: Sandwiches cost $8 and $10. Salads are also $8 and $10. Soup of the day is $5 for a small and $7 for a large. Breakfast egg sammies are $4.
