View, people, food different at Bodee’s

By Lori Appel
August 12, 2005

Steeped in more than 50 years of tradition, Bodee’s Restaurant, located at 3304 Maricopa Highway in Ojai (2.5 miles north of the “Y”), is once again open for business with executive chef Christopher Watson, formerly of Nona’s Café and Table 13, at the helm. Originally opened in 1947 by Hiram Imboden Cromer “Doc Bodee” and his wife, Anne, Bodee’s was a popular watering hole for many Hollywood actors and boxing greats who trained up the road at Pop Soper’s.

Bodee’s is open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday from 5 to 10 p.m. and open for lunch Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. At Bodee’s, they have a saying, “The view, the people, the food … it’s different out here at Bodee’s.” It’s that difference that makes the experience at Bodee’s so special.

	The massive outdoor fireplace is just one focal point of the renovated Bodee’s Restaurant. The Maricopa Highway restaurant originally opened in 1947.

Patrons who visit Bodee’s can enjoy a waterscaped garden environment nestled into the wooded hillside or they can relax and enjoy the fireside patio for a casual and tranquil alfresco dining experience — a great way to spend a summer evening. For those who prefer an indoor atmosphere, the air-conditioned
restaurant is adorned with rich dark wood-paneled walls, the original brick fireplace hearth, and custom designed high back plush fabric and leather seating, creating a cozy mood for any seasonal climate where one can relish the wide array of culinary offerings.

Bodee’s menu offers a choice for every taste whether it’s a 20 oz. certified Angus beef porterhouse steak or vegetarian lentil roulade. For starters, the Bodee’s signature guacamole with avocadoes from their own
ranch located just behind the restaurant is a real treat, while the yellowfin tuna tartar, barbecue duck confit quesadilla, and Caesar salad are all great choices. Entrée items include fabulous steaks such as rib eye,
porterhouse, New York strip and filet mignon.

Not in the mood for steak? Then how about chicken breast stuffed with walnuts and gorgonzola, arbecued baby back ribs, wild salmon with caper dill sauce, or a delicious pasta offering? After dinner, complete
your feast with a Bodee’s signature dessert.

Beyond the menu, Bodee’s is offering “off-the-boat” specials. Thick swordfish steaks caught in local waters off the Channel Islands from Bodee’s own boat will be among the nightly enticements.

To round out the dining experience, Bodee’s offers an exceptional chef-selected international wine list, from champagnes and sparkling white wines to varietal whites, roses, reds, and dessert wines —more
than 60 from which to choose.

Lunch at Bodee’s is a casual affair, a time to sit out on the patio and enjoy the Ojai countryside. Those who opt for lunch at Bodee’s can select from breakfast items such as a “make-your-own” omelet or Belgian
waffle with strawberries or select a more traditional lunch with a “build-your-own” burger, a pastrami or tri-tip sandwich served with house fries, barbecue chicken wrap, or a selection from the salad menu. The choices abound. Kids are welcome at Bodee’s; a special kids’ menu is available with treats prepared
just for their young palates.

Michele Cromer-Bentivolio, “Doc Bodee’s” granddaughter, and the entire Cromer family are dedicated to providing a memorable dining experience and hope that those who visit Bodee’s will start making Bodee’s a part of their family’s tradition.

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