FLINT, MI -- I heard a lot of good things about Spectacular Spudz in Flint, and I came hungry.
The place was comfortable and inviting. It's the kind of place where they probably remember their customers' orders even if they can't recall their names.
The atmosphere was on point -- some classic hip-hop playing in the background, the kind that makes you want to argue about the best 90s rappers over a plate of wings.
If you're into good music with your meal, Wednesdays are "Wine Down Wednesdays", featuring Flint-area DJ AK spinning hip-hop and R&B from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Happy hour runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and yes, there's a full bar -- because what's a good meal without something to sip on?
My research set my heart on tater tots, but like the true foodie I am, my eyes wandered across the menu, and suddenly, my game plan was out the window.
Yes, they specialize in potatoes, but don't let the name fool you. They have birria nachos, crispy chicken tenders and even Brussels sprouts. And while I love a good plot twist, I had to stay focused. Potatoes first.
That's when I locked in on the No. 17, the "Salmon Cajun Alfredo."
It had everything I needed: flaky, seasoned salmon sitting pretty on a ginormous potato, filled with spinach and covered in their rich, house-made Alfredo sauce and shaved Parmesan cheese. It's creamy. It's dreamy. And it's completely worth every single calorie.
I also had to try the wings, but not some traditional flavors like lemon pepper or Buffalo (they have both). Spudz Wings caught my attention. These are topped with "spud butter" and Parmesan cheese. It was the "spud butter" for me!
My dietician would probably have a few choice words for me, but look -- potatoes are vegetables, and salmon is healthy, right? The wings? Well, that was just my "big back-ism" kicking in. No regrets.
Final verdict: Spectacular Spudz is living up to its name. Go for the potatoes, stay for everything else. Just don't tell your dietician (mine is reading this).