There's something to be said about familiarity when it comes to food. Just knowing that my favorite dishes at a preferred restaurant are a menu staple can be very reassuring.

Take my favorite neighborhood bistro, Twiggs, on the South Hill just down the street from the KREM-TV studios. I know I can always find my favorite appetizers, Calamari A La Romana ($9.95), Mushroom Stuffed Flatbread ($11.95) and Moroccan Beef ($12.95) on the menu.

The calamari is tempura crusted and served with artichoke hearts, onions, chili flakes, basil and a lemon garlic aioli.The flatbread comes stuffed with mushrooms, parmesan cheese, white truffle oil and drizzled with balsamic reduction. And the beef is sautéed in Moroccan spices and served with rosemary biscotti and Gorgonzola fondue.

A great meal is just sharing these dishes among friends, along with one of Twiggs' popular martinis, of course. I prefer the South of the Border Kamakazi ($8.50), similar to a margarita.

When it comes to entrees the Sweet and Sour Ahi and Prawns ($19.95) are fabulous. Twiggs pizzas' are also stellar, my favorite being The Tuscan, ($12.95) prosciutto ham, caramelized onions, sun dried tomatoes, goat cheese, feta and mozzarella topped with a balsamic glaze.

But what's this? Crab Mac and Cheese? I never saw that on the menu before. That's okay. I consider it a welcome change and I'll be back to try it out soon.

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