Not too long ago, there was a certain incident at Brick City that left a person dead, another wounded.  One paramedic saw the lifeless body, another administered aid to the wounded one.
They were back at the scene â€" or, across the street from it â€" last night. 

The pair were out having a drink and dinner at Vin Grotto, where I was enjoying the ambiance of a good outdoors patio, alone with my book, "Get Some Hairapy" by Aura Mae.

Far from shrinking into shady obscurity, that Pacific Avenue strip is thriving, with Capers, Meconi's, Matador, Vin Grotto, and Paddy Coyne's all vying for diners.

All have outdoors patios where the summer breezes and the sight of passers by make for an enjoyable evening; that enjoyment factor raises by several notches when you have great food and great wine.

Add a good bargain? And I’m in heaven on Pac Ave.

My filet mignon was tender and perfectly seasoned, with a demiglaze sauce I wanted to lick off the plate.  Fortunately, I didn’t have to lick, because a sizable portion of roasted red potatoes â€" also seasoned to perfection â€" was conveniently located on the plate, perfect for mopping.  The green beans I also devoured were, again, seasoned in some combination of flavors that had me in a state of ecstasy, and then matched with chevre.

The Syrah I sipped was the $5 special, while the filet was $20.

I was amazed, and wandered away from Pac Ave in a state of bliss.

Like other substances that may have been a source of commerce on that avenue, I’m afraid Vin Grotto Chef Kaj’s cooking might prove addictive.

Sign me up for more, please! â€" Jessica Corey-Butler