Dining Out:

My dessert options were all tempting — cupcakes, fruit tarts, various bars made of chocolate, lemon, berries and such — but I was ecstatic with my choice of a cashew cookie. It is a mounded shortbread cookie with chopped cashews and a wonderful butter cream frosting on top.

I took home a few items for my family and presented a lovely dinner that night. We started off with two appetizers, phyllo spinach and feta, and crab empanadas ($12/dozen). The phyllo triangles were creamy and delicious. (Though be careful not to overcook them or they’ll ooze everywhere.)

But I don’t think I’d get the empanadas again. The crust was a little heavy and the filling was nothing to write home about. We also had the Parmesan chicken ($5.95 each) — huge, moist, delicious chicken breasts coated in fresh Parmesan and served with a basil aioli. Two single breasts easily fed my family of four. I supplemented with my own green salad.

By just dropping in to the Spot, my choices were limited to what was in their display case and freezer (usually meatloaf, lasagna and Mexican casseroles). Next time, I’ll check their website ( www.TheSpotGourmet.com) a day or two before and call in my order.

They have various combinations, such as the Gourmet Mommy ($26.99 feeds a family of four); Romantic Dinners for Two and Corporate Menus (prices vary). Their various online and in-store menus are a little confusing with differing prices for the same items due to differing weights. Just discuss your needs with one of the helpful, professional employees and they’ll set you up. Another option is to call early in the day and see what they’re making for a large catering order. If you like what you hear, they’ll make extra for you.

All in all, even though, or perhaps because, they are a large catering company, the food at the Spot is handled with care and prepared with a light touch. So next time guests drop in unexpectedly, give them a call.

Infobox

What: The Spot

Where: 1936 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale

When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday

Prices: Combos $10 to $19.95; entree items $5.25 to $14; salads and sides (half pints, pints and quarts) $4 to $16; desserts $1.50 to $4

Contact: (818) 861-7339 or www.TheSpotGourmet.com

Get in touch LISA DUPUY loves to cook at her own dinner parties but sometimes needs a helping hand. She can be reached at ldupuy@aol.com.