Green Pig Bistro

Green Pig Bistro isn't exactly what you think of when you want a veggie-friendly restaurant.  But then, it's not meant to be.  Born in the era of charcuteries this pork heavy restaurant is true to its name.  In point of fact I have dismissed it many times due to the limited veggie options but it was Father's Day and I was curious about a place which repeatedly tops the list for brunch spots in Arlington.  Reservations were made in advance and for the most part, it did not disappoint.  I ordered completely off the a la carte menu, getting two eggs scrambled, cheese grits and the biscuits with cream cheese and hot pepper jelly (yes, this a place where you have to "earn" the meal through workouts the day before).  The eggs were voluminous and tasty, not overdone at all.  The biscuits were firm and flavorful (although I would have liked the jam and cream cheese to be served on the side rather than pre-schmeered into the cut biscuits) and the grits, heavily dosed with cheddar cheese and (cream?  butter?) were extremely rich and yummy.  The waitress saw to it that all of our oddball requests were accommodated, skipping traditional accompaniments and switching them for more healthy ones.  One companion said it was the best decaf coffee he had seen in a good long while and another declared the same of the grits.  The bill was reasonable, coming to around $27 per person with tax and tip.  The only downside was the same I have had of many restaurants of late.  Concrete floors, open kitchen and thumping music make for a noisy space and conversation was challenging at times.  I do wish restauranteurs would address this issue.  In any case, not a lot for veggies and really nothing for vegans, but if you don't mind a carb laden meal the food here is well-made and a hit for the meat-eating friends.

Pork-focused charcuterie style food
1025 N. Fillmore Street, Arlington
http://greenpigbistro.com/