Fat Tuesday, the day before Christians settle down to 40 lean days of Lent, is part of almost every culture, whether it’s called Carnevale, Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day. But before you pick up that Hurricane glass and get your beads on, you’d best pick up a fork and get something substantial in your tummy.  

Forty percent of moms will celebrate Mother’s Day by dining out this year, according to the National Restaurant Association. Others will be cooked for, waited on and showered with love. The rest — and you know who they are — will be in the kitchen making lunch and dinner for their families. Don’t let this happen to your mother (or wife). There are plenty of deals going on right now. Take that lady out.  

Given my status as a college student, supporting myself by working three days a week at a part-time job, I don’t have the time or money to try many of the upscale dining spots Cincinnati has to offer. So consider this the fantasy meal for the working (er, barely working) man.