Seated in one of the many rooms, each decorated with antique memorabilia and hand-painted humorous quotes, we are easily drawn into a casual dining mood. On the table, a variety of bottles, some of which are Tyler's own brand, continue to entertain. You are presented with a whimsical menu, and the ordering begins.

Usually, we vie for a couple of beers, but on occasion crave for Rhodes's Bloody Mary. More of an appetizer than a starter, the carafe arrives topped with a garden of celery, tomato, olives, bacon, and a fat shrimp. It is spiced up just right, living up to its notion of providing a nice little buzz.

Perusing the extensive, diverse menu, we always order what we don't often prepare at home, including the crispy fried calamari and the steamed clams. Swimming in their own broth, the clams are served with drawn butter for dipping. A basket of crusty bread is provided upon request to aid in the undertaking.

Holding us off, a complimentary salad is served with a classical choice of dressings. Expecting a usual so-so side, we were surprised at the lettuce's crisp freshness and even more surprised at the freshness of the cherry tomatoes and, needless to say, were not left on the plate.

We religiously order the T-Bone for two in the past, cut right from Tyler's on-premise butcher shop. But today, seafood is on our mind, and we took a chance ordering the waiter's daily suggestion of Broiled Salmon with roasted spiced figs. Bingo! Rhodes bouillabaisse was the second choice and another winner! A large plate with a mountain of mussels, clams, chunks of fish, and split lobster tail in a light tomato sauce over rice lived up to its tradition. The best part was that everything was fresh and firm. The portions are impressive, and it's two take-home containers to the cart away what could not be finished.

We have been patrons of Rhodes North since its inception, and our hearts go out to the Rhodes clan upon the passing of a dear entrepreneur, Tyler.

Lastly, one of our joys in life is appreciating restaurants and pubs of all ethnic qualities and impartially discern ingredients, preparation, and presentation.