Review: Don't miss the venerable Morrie's Place, where specials shine

PERRY TWP. − Hungry people traveling down Lincoln Way have plenty of choices to fill their bellies. From burgers to Mexican to barbecue, there is no shortage of options.

But I have always been curious about Morrie's Place.

The parking lot is always filled when I drive by, and I've noticed the menu being hyped up its Facebook page.

Last Friday night, my family decided to give it a try, heading to 3305 Lincoln E, just outside the Massillon city limits.

The building, which has a stone facade, harkens to a different time. It appears to have been updated since it opened decades ago, but has retained the classic Morrie's sign advertising liquor, beer and good food.

The inside was divided in two, with one side filled with patrons ready to start their weekend bellied up to the bar. The other, larger side had tables and booths for hungry patrons. The restaurant shows its age but there is nothing tired about the menu.

The Morrie's menu is filled with burgers, sandwiches, salads, appetizers and dinner entrees.

We started our meal with an order of fried pickle chips ($7.99) at the request of my 10-year-old daughter. The deep-fried pickles had a yummy breading that clung to the pickle chips and offered a bit of a tangy bite at the end. The ranch dressing served with the appetizer helped cool down the spice.

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If fried pickles aren't your thing you can try the hot pepper cheese balls, onion rings or sauerkraut balls.

As I often see advertised on Morrie's Facebook page, there are plenty of specials.

Friday night's special was a broiled scrod dinner, a three-piece beer-battered dinner or a beer-battered fish sandwich. Those choosing the broiled scrod had a choice of cajun, lemon pepper or garlic butter preparation.

My husband enjoyed the cajun spice, noting it was not overpowering as it often can be.

All entrees come with a choice of potato − baked, homefries or french fries − and a cold side, with a salad, cottage cheese, coleslaw or applesauce as the choices. Onion rings, sweet potato fries, vegetable medley, double salad or spaghetti (when available) can be substituted for $1 more.

My red-meat-loving daughter opted for the 12-ounce angus strip steak ($22.99), and I had to try the thick pork chop ($14.99) that I saw touted on social media.

Kennedy's steak was cooked to perfection − a perfect medium-rare, just how she likes it. She even commented on how well the steak was seasoned. She paired her steak with a giant plate of buttered noodles.

The pork chop lived up to the hype. It was grilled perfectly. Did I mention that Morrie's grills a number of their entrees on a gas grill behind the restaurant? I wish I would have ordered a second chop − an option for $20.99.

While we dined, owner Pat Anthony stopped by to chat. She noticed Kennedy was a cheerleader and struck up a conversation with us. We learned that the business was a family affair. Anthony and her husband, John, purchased the business in 1993. It has been in John's family since it opened in 1977.

Anthony's daughter, Leah, was our server and bartender, and her son, Gabe, is the kitchen manager.

If you like to play pool or throw darts, you are in luck. And on Sept. 8, the TVs were tuned to the Massillon and Perry football games.

The business hosts a variety of events, from live entertainment to fundraisers, and you also can catch Buckeyes or Browns games.

A variety of nightly specials are offered − such as two steak dinners for $34 on Saturdays, and Italian meals on Tuesdays − as well as lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Every Monday. a homemade comfort food is on special. On Sept. 11, it was stuffed peppers and mashed potatoes.

Anthony was warm and welcoming, and the food was top-notch.

Don't sleep on Morrie's − there is something for everyone, and The Anthonys offer a comfortable atmosphere.

Reach Amy at 330-775-1135 or amy.knapp@indeonline.com.

Morrie's Place

TASTE − There was an array of foods from which to choose. Dishes were well-seasoned and prepared expertly. Good portion sizes. 5/5 stars

AMBIANCE − The outside was welcoming and provided ample parking. The inside was dated but didn't take away from the allure of the place. 4/5 stars

SERVICE − Owner Pat Anthony was welcoming and truly showed an interest in her customers. The staff was attentive and food was prompt. 5/5 stars

CONCEPT − Morrie's Place offers a variety of dishes from salads, appetizers, sandwiches, burgers, steaks, fish and pork chops. 4/5 stars

PRICE − Prices were reasonable for the portion size. Specials were spot on. 4/5 stars

OVERALL RATING − 4.4 stars

This article originally appeared on The Independent: Review: Don't miss the venerable Morrie's Place, where specials shine