Korean Grill House
After leaving Little India, we saw The Korean Grill House right across the street. Good news, Mmm'mmm. Bad news, won't get to think about where to go to dinner the next night!
Those of you looking at the calender will note that the day we visited was the U.S. Thanksgiving Day holiday. Needless to say, I wasn't expecting to grill my own turkey or have pumpkin pie for dessert. It was just another day in Canada, but still the Korean Grill house was pretty packed (for a Thursday, a weeknight remember!). Luckily we didn't have to wait long for a seat and soon found ourselves at a table with a hot grill in front of us.
For appetizers, we had an order of fried spring rolls that were fine.
We also had an order of Chicken Bibm Bahb (a sort of Korean Pho or soup with a variety of ingredients) and, because the Korean Grill House is a "cook-it-yourself" place, the BBQ Meat Combo (chicken, beef, and pork). Along with the meat combo came a vegetable sampler (Kimchee, Bean Curd, Bean Sprout, Spicy Bean Sprout, Pickled Radish) that was really great (and they kept the kimchee coming as the dish got empty!).
It was a bit of work to keep the meat on the grill, make sure it was done, and eat all at the same time, but the end results were worth the effort. A very tasty meal at a very reasonable price.
(Note: The Korean Grill House has four other locations in the Toronto area).
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 27 November 2008
Address: 214 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z2, Canada
Website: http://www.koreangrillhouse.com/
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Little India: Big Portions!
Little India
Before heading to Toronto, I wanted to see if there were any Indian restaurants near my hotel (Sheraton City Centre). Indeed, just a few blocks away was a whole street full of well-rated places. What to choose!
So, on our first night, we selected Little India. Good choice! Located on Queen Street, the comfortable restaurant was warm and snug on a slightly chilly night.
The menu was quite interesting and had a few things that I've not seen before. But even before ordering, we received a basket of pappadum and a tasty parsnip chutney which I've never seen before. Cut into little cubes, at first I thought it was carrots til the waiter informed us otherwise.
For appetizers, we chose the Onion Bhajia and, again, because it's not usually found on the menus of Mutton Rolls. The Onion Bhajia was very good and the Mutton Rolls were good (but not great), basically they were little meat pies, a bit heavy on the dough.
For main courses, we went with the Palak Paneer and a Vegetarian Thali with rice and roti all around. It was a good Palak Paneer and the Vegetarian Thali had a very nice selection of various vegetarian dishes.
Overall, the portions were very large (we had way too much food) and a little on the spicy side (even though we asked for mild) - I'd never had a Palak Paneer that was that hot!
Dinner ended with a complimentary serving of Gulab Jamun. Never one of my favorites (just tooooooo sweet and sticky), so I can't really judge how good it was.
Relatively inexpensive, and even more so with the US/Canadian dollar exchange. Highly recommended.
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 26 November 2008
Address: 255 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z4, Canada
Website: http://www.littleindia.ca/
Before heading to Toronto, I wanted to see if there were any Indian restaurants near my hotel (Sheraton City Centre). Indeed, just a few blocks away was a whole street full of well-rated places. What to choose!
So, on our first night, we selected Little India. Good choice! Located on Queen Street, the comfortable restaurant was warm and snug on a slightly chilly night.
The menu was quite interesting and had a few things that I've not seen before. But even before ordering, we received a basket of pappadum and a tasty parsnip chutney which I've never seen before. Cut into little cubes, at first I thought it was carrots til the waiter informed us otherwise.
For appetizers, we chose the Onion Bhajia and, again, because it's not usually found on the menus of Mutton Rolls. The Onion Bhajia was very good and the Mutton Rolls were good (but not great), basically they were little meat pies, a bit heavy on the dough.
For main courses, we went with the Palak Paneer and a Vegetarian Thali with rice and roti all around. It was a good Palak Paneer and the Vegetarian Thali had a very nice selection of various vegetarian dishes.
Overall, the portions were very large (we had way too much food) and a little on the spicy side (even though we asked for mild) - I'd never had a Palak Paneer that was that hot!
Dinner ended with a complimentary serving of Gulab Jamun. Never one of my favorites (just tooooooo sweet and sticky), so I can't really judge how good it was.
Relatively inexpensive, and even more so with the US/Canadian dollar exchange. Highly recommended.
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 26 November 2008
Address: 255 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z4, Canada
Website: http://www.littleindia.ca/
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Delhi Delicious: Delhi Dhaba
Delhi Dhaba
Arlington, Virginia, between Courthouse and Virginia Square (sorry for the local Metro references) has three Indian restaurants. I'm going to focus on my favorite of the three: Delhi Dhaba (the other two are The Delhi Club and Tandoori Nights - both are quite good, but in much different ways! Stay tuned for reviews of them in upcoming posts).
A Dhaba, in India and Pakistan, is a the South Asian equivilant of a truck stop or roadside diner. Located on Wilson Blvd., Delhi Dhaba isn't quite a truck stop - not nearly enough parking - but does have a friendly charm about it.
First off, there's no wait service. You order directly from in front of the steam table and take the food to the dining area (in warmer weather, there's an outdoor area). The dining area features Bollywood movies on two screens at no extra cost!
On weekends, the steam table becomes a buffet where you can get all you can eat for a very reasonable price.
I've eaten at the Dhaba for lunch, dinner, buffet lunch, carry out and delivery. Selecting from a wide variety of meat (chicken, lamb, goat) and vegetarian dishes, I've never been disappointed.
One of the best, and most authentic Indian experiences in the Washington area.
(Note: there are also two other locations in Bethesda, MD and Washington, DC).
Meal: Lunch Buffet / Dinner / Carry out
Rating: **** of 5
Date: Regular
Address: 2424 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201
Website: http://www.delhidhaba.com/
Arlington, Virginia, between Courthouse and Virginia Square (sorry for the local Metro references) has three Indian restaurants. I'm going to focus on my favorite of the three: Delhi Dhaba (the other two are The Delhi Club and Tandoori Nights - both are quite good, but in much different ways! Stay tuned for reviews of them in upcoming posts).
A Dhaba, in India and Pakistan, is a the South Asian equivilant of a truck stop or roadside diner. Located on Wilson Blvd., Delhi Dhaba isn't quite a truck stop - not nearly enough parking - but does have a friendly charm about it.
First off, there's no wait service. You order directly from in front of the steam table and take the food to the dining area (in warmer weather, there's an outdoor area). The dining area features Bollywood movies on two screens at no extra cost!
On weekends, the steam table becomes a buffet where you can get all you can eat for a very reasonable price.
I've eaten at the Dhaba for lunch, dinner, buffet lunch, carry out and delivery. Selecting from a wide variety of meat (chicken, lamb, goat) and vegetarian dishes, I've never been disappointed.
One of the best, and most authentic Indian experiences in the Washington area.
(Note: there are also two other locations in Bethesda, MD and Washington, DC).
Meal: Lunch Buffet / Dinner / Carry out
Rating: **** of 5
Date: Regular
Address: 2424 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201
Website: http://www.delhidhaba.com/
Monday, November 24, 2008
Shangri-la beneath the November moon: Kashmir
Kashmir
The eternally trendy Newbury Street in Boston has a number of fine restaurants, one of my all time favorites, however, is Kashmir. A well appointed Indian restaurant located down a flight of steps at the low numbered end of the street.
On a previous trip to Boston, I was shanghaied by co-workers who didn't want to make the trip across the Charles and instead led us to Mexican place in Cambridge that has since achieved notoriety among us for the persistence of olfactory memory it provides diners.
Though I was unable to satisfy my desire for Kashmir on that trip, I was able to later find fulfillment for my lamb rogan josh craving elsewhere in Cambridge.
(Was that too much information?) ... sorry, anyway, so when I needed to meet a colleague at her office in Boston Public Library, the lure of Kashmir just a few blocks away was impossible to resist.
Though mid-week, there was still a nice crowd - enough to not feel alone, but not too many to feel crowded. Greeted at our table with a tiny, complimentary, samosa, the night was off to a great start!
For appetizers, we had the Kashmiri Vegetarian sampler that included a nice selection of pakora, samosa and the like. As per my preference, the meal was accompanied by bread (an especially tasty and well done naan in this case), rice, and raita. I always find it a special touch when served a nice pickle tray, and Kashmir provided a nice selection of chutneys for the meal.
Feeling in a fowl mood, my companion and I selected two chicken dishes, Chicken Murgh Masala and Chicken Tikka Saag. Both were well done and served over tiny flames to retain heat. The Tikka Saag was quite good, but the Murg Masala was the winner of the two.
The excellent and attentive service was capped off with warm towels.
Highly recommended!
(for those of you confused by the title of this post, see: Led Zeppelin, "Kashmir")
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 19 November 2008
Address: 279 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116
Website: http://www.oneworldcuisine.com
The eternally trendy Newbury Street in Boston has a number of fine restaurants, one of my all time favorites, however, is Kashmir. A well appointed Indian restaurant located down a flight of steps at the low numbered end of the street.
On a previous trip to Boston, I was shanghaied by co-workers who didn't want to make the trip across the Charles and instead led us to Mexican place in Cambridge that has since achieved notoriety among us for the persistence of olfactory memory it provides diners.
Though I was unable to satisfy my desire for Kashmir on that trip, I was able to later find fulfillment for my lamb rogan josh craving elsewhere in Cambridge.
(Was that too much information?) ... sorry, anyway, so when I needed to meet a colleague at her office in Boston Public Library, the lure of Kashmir just a few blocks away was impossible to resist.
Though mid-week, there was still a nice crowd - enough to not feel alone, but not too many to feel crowded. Greeted at our table with a tiny, complimentary, samosa, the night was off to a great start!
For appetizers, we had the Kashmiri Vegetarian sampler that included a nice selection of pakora, samosa and the like. As per my preference, the meal was accompanied by bread (an especially tasty and well done naan in this case), rice, and raita. I always find it a special touch when served a nice pickle tray, and Kashmir provided a nice selection of chutneys for the meal.
Feeling in a fowl mood, my companion and I selected two chicken dishes, Chicken Murgh Masala and Chicken Tikka Saag. Both were well done and served over tiny flames to retain heat. The Tikka Saag was quite good, but the Murg Masala was the winner of the two.
The excellent and attentive service was capped off with warm towels.
Highly recommended!
(for those of you confused by the title of this post, see: Led Zeppelin, "Kashmir")
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 19 November 2008
Address: 279 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116
Website: http://www.oneworldcuisine.com
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Mmmm'mm Momo!
Taste of the Himalayas
I mentioned momo in my last post, so I have to mention Taste of the Himalayas! I was back on the West Coast for a meeting in San Francisco and staying in the Marina District. One of my goals for the trip was a revisiting Taste of the Himalayas.
Located on the busy and noisy Lombard Street, TotH is an island of peace and calm. On my previous visit, my companion and I ordered the prix fixe meal that was literally and endless feast of delights. As an added bonus, the restaurant was nearly empty and we received particularly attentive service from the staff. On this visit, that option wasn't offered, so the three of us selected from the regular menu. Our service, was great (but - note to self - I think I'm a bit too old to be sitting on pillows on the floor, take a seat next time!)
Of course momo was mandatory and we went with the vegetarian option. We also received the dal that came with the entrees. For entrees, we went with a selection of lamb, chicken, and vegetarian: Bheda ko Tarkari (lamb cooked in onion and tomatoes), Saag paneer (spinach and cheese) and a chicken curry. Sides of bread, raita finished off the meal.
If you're in the Marina District, you'll probably be tempted to stick with the chi-chi spots located alone Chestnut Street, but do climb that extra block to reach the culinary heights of Taste of the Himalayas!
More photos
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 26 October 2008 (17 January 2008)
Address: 2420 Lombard St., San Francisco, CA 94123
Website: http://www.tasteofnepalsf.com/Welcome.html
I mentioned momo in my last post, so I have to mention Taste of the Himalayas! I was back on the West Coast for a meeting in San Francisco and staying in the Marina District. One of my goals for the trip was a revisiting Taste of the Himalayas.
Located on the busy and noisy Lombard Street, TotH is an island of peace and calm. On my previous visit, my companion and I ordered the prix fixe meal that was literally and endless feast of delights. As an added bonus, the restaurant was nearly empty and we received particularly attentive service from the staff. On this visit, that option wasn't offered, so the three of us selected from the regular menu. Our service, was great (but - note to self - I think I'm a bit too old to be sitting on pillows on the floor, take a seat next time!)
Of course momo was mandatory and we went with the vegetarian option. We also received the dal that came with the entrees. For entrees, we went with a selection of lamb, chicken, and vegetarian: Bheda ko Tarkari (lamb cooked in onion and tomatoes), Saag paneer (spinach and cheese) and a chicken curry. Sides of bread, raita finished off the meal.
If you're in the Marina District, you'll probably be tempted to stick with the chi-chi spots located alone Chestnut Street, but do climb that extra block to reach the culinary heights of Taste of the Himalayas!
More photos
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 26 October 2008 (17 January 2008)
Address: 2420 Lombard St., San Francisco, CA 94123
Website: http://www.tasteofnepalsf.com/Welcome.html
Polo Indian Club
Polo India Club
We had a busy fall with out of town visitors! In late September we took our Yukon visitors to Aroma Indian Restaurant. A few days later, we were back for more Indian with our Boston relatives!
This time, we selected the Polo India Club in DuPont Circle. It had been a number of years since I'd been to the Polo India Club, but I had fond memories of dinners there as well as the buffet lunch. Located a few steps up in an old townhouse, the Polo India Club was looking a little more dingy than I recall.
I had just got back in town from a trip to Woods Hole (see La Cucina Sul Mare) and was ready for another restaurant meal.
I was surprised to see momo on the menu under appetizers. I usually associate momo with Nepalese cuisine. Now I know that Indian and Nepalese are closely related, I rarely see them overlap in a primarily Indian restaurant, such as Polo India Club. But, since I love momo, I was willing to give them a try. For those of you unfamiliar with momo, they're a cross between a dumpling and a samosa. Steamed, not fried, the momo can have various fillings and side sauces; we got the veggie (Nepali spices and steamed inside the wheat bread served with Nepali aachar) and they were quite tasty.
For main courses, we decided to sample each others' dishes and not do a full sharing. It was the lamb thing. I was the only one who wanted lamb. Oh, and a spicy thing too. We had a mix of spicy and mild, so it was easier to get separate dishes. This was good news/bad news for me, I didn't get to try as many things, but it did let me get Lamb Vindaloo! What could be better than hot spicy lamb! Not much!
The vindaloo was very well done, but the lamb was a little tough. This was a problem with a couple of the other dishes, especially the chicken which was on the stringy side. Overall, the consensus was that the offerings were good, but not great.
Service was adequate, but we had some communication problems with our waiter and getting seconds on our wine and beer took a bit of time.
Tasty food, if you select right, but if you're looking for something a little more special, walk a few extra blocks and find Aroma Indian Restaurant.
Meal: Dinner
Rating: *** of 5
Date: 2 October 2008
Address: 1736 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20009
Website: http://www.poloindiaclubdc.com/
We had a busy fall with out of town visitors! In late September we took our Yukon visitors to Aroma Indian Restaurant. A few days later, we were back for more Indian with our Boston relatives!
This time, we selected the Polo India Club in DuPont Circle. It had been a number of years since I'd been to the Polo India Club, but I had fond memories of dinners there as well as the buffet lunch. Located a few steps up in an old townhouse, the Polo India Club was looking a little more dingy than I recall.
I had just got back in town from a trip to Woods Hole (see La Cucina Sul Mare) and was ready for another restaurant meal.
I was surprised to see momo on the menu under appetizers. I usually associate momo with Nepalese cuisine. Now I know that Indian and Nepalese are closely related, I rarely see them overlap in a primarily Indian restaurant, such as Polo India Club. But, since I love momo, I was willing to give them a try. For those of you unfamiliar with momo, they're a cross between a dumpling and a samosa. Steamed, not fried, the momo can have various fillings and side sauces; we got the veggie (Nepali spices and steamed inside the wheat bread served with Nepali aachar) and they were quite tasty.
For main courses, we decided to sample each others' dishes and not do a full sharing. It was the lamb thing. I was the only one who wanted lamb. Oh, and a spicy thing too. We had a mix of spicy and mild, so it was easier to get separate dishes. This was good news/bad news for me, I didn't get to try as many things, but it did let me get Lamb Vindaloo! What could be better than hot spicy lamb! Not much!
The vindaloo was very well done, but the lamb was a little tough. This was a problem with a couple of the other dishes, especially the chicken which was on the stringy side. Overall, the consensus was that the offerings were good, but not great.
Service was adequate, but we had some communication problems with our waiter and getting seconds on our wine and beer took a bit of time.
Tasty food, if you select right, but if you're looking for something a little more special, walk a few extra blocks and find Aroma Indian Restaurant.
Meal: Dinner
Rating: *** of 5
Date: 2 October 2008
Address: 1736 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20009
Website: http://www.poloindiaclubdc.com/
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Smells Like a South Asian Delight
Aroma Indian Restaurant
Tucked into a little sidestreet in the Foggy Bottom area of Washington (actually, just across the street from El Chalan!), Aroma's snug little dining area is perfect for a quiet dinner for two or a small group.
On my last visit, we were entertaining out of town relatives (all the way from Whitehorse, Yukon!) and we'd just spent a full day visiting museums and walking all around town. By the time we settled in, we had worked up a good appetite.
Indian dining works best when you can share a number of dishes and Aroma's selections were perfect for sharing. We started out with an order of bhelpuri and the vegetarian appetizer sampler.
For those of you not familiar with bhelpuri, run out and try it as soon as possible. A delightful blend of rice crisps mixed with fresh chopped onions, tomatoes, and coriander, made with with a tamarind base chutney. Aroma's bhelpuri offering was done to perfection and is highly recommended. The vegetarian sampler was, like most samplers, reminiscent of a short story collection - some were good, others great, and there were a few clunkers.
Still, for a group, everyone found something they liked.
For selected four dishes for the main course. Lamb can sometimes be dicey in a group (I find people have strong feelings about lamb - either you love it or hate it, rarely are people wishy-washy on lamb). Luckily, we had another lamb lover in the group, so we could get one of my favorites, the Lamb Roganjosh. The lamb was well done with just the right mix of spices. We had to vegetarian dishes, the Channa Masala and Saag Paneer, but quite good. Adding to the mix was a nicely done Chicken Curry.
Complimenting the main course were rice, raita, and a selection of breads.
The staff of Aroma were well informed on the food and could make recommendations for good mixes. The wine selection was acceptable (we had a red).
Overall, highly recommended.
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 27 September 2008
Address: 1919 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006
Website: http://www.aromarestaurant.com/
Tucked into a little sidestreet in the Foggy Bottom area of Washington (actually, just across the street from El Chalan!), Aroma's snug little dining area is perfect for a quiet dinner for two or a small group.
On my last visit, we were entertaining out of town relatives (all the way from Whitehorse, Yukon!) and we'd just spent a full day visiting museums and walking all around town. By the time we settled in, we had worked up a good appetite.
Indian dining works best when you can share a number of dishes and Aroma's selections were perfect for sharing. We started out with an order of bhelpuri and the vegetarian appetizer sampler.
For those of you not familiar with bhelpuri, run out and try it as soon as possible. A delightful blend of rice crisps mixed with fresh chopped onions, tomatoes, and coriander, made with with a tamarind base chutney. Aroma's bhelpuri offering was done to perfection and is highly recommended. The vegetarian sampler was, like most samplers, reminiscent of a short story collection - some were good, others great, and there were a few clunkers.
Still, for a group, everyone found something they liked.
For selected four dishes for the main course. Lamb can sometimes be dicey in a group (I find people have strong feelings about lamb - either you love it or hate it, rarely are people wishy-washy on lamb). Luckily, we had another lamb lover in the group, so we could get one of my favorites, the Lamb Roganjosh. The lamb was well done with just the right mix of spices. We had to vegetarian dishes, the Channa Masala and Saag Paneer, but quite good. Adding to the mix was a nicely done Chicken Curry.
Complimenting the main course were rice, raita, and a selection of breads.
The staff of Aroma were well informed on the food and could make recommendations for good mixes. The wine selection was acceptable (we had a red).
Overall, highly recommended.
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 27 September 2008
Address: 1919 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006
Website: http://www.aromarestaurant.com/
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
La Cucina Sul Mare
La Cucina Sul Mare
Located in the heart of downtown Falmouth (right off the village green), La Cucina Sul Mare offers comfortable seating in a nice large dining area.
But you've probably come for the food!
But not yet! Take a look at the wine list and select from a large and interesting selection. Now, on to the food.
Offering a variety of traditional Italian dishes, all your favorites will be there. Marsalas, Piccatas, Limones, and Milanese are offered in fish, pork, chicken, veal, etc.
For starters, there are the typical antipasti, as well as soups and salads. Our table took the special salad. A salad for $12.95 seemed a lot at first, but we were assured our group of four could split the dish. And indeed, when it arrived, it was more than enough for four. This was my first "warm" salad! A delicious mix of green, dried cranberries, nuts, and cheese, that was a hit of the table.
From among a mouth-watering selection of specials, our group choose the scrod with sweet potatoes and the pork osso bucco (sadly, the braised lamb shank was gone!), and - from the main menu - Sole Limone.
Service was fast, friendly and helpful (for both the wine list as well as dinning suggestions).
Overall, an excellent dining experience on the Cape.
More pictures.
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 29 September 2008
Address: 237 Main St., Falmouth, MA 02540
Website: N/A
Located in the heart of downtown Falmouth (right off the village green), La Cucina Sul Mare offers comfortable seating in a nice large dining area.
But you've probably come for the food!
But not yet! Take a look at the wine list and select from a large and interesting selection. Now, on to the food.
Offering a variety of traditional Italian dishes, all your favorites will be there. Marsalas, Piccatas, Limones, and Milanese are offered in fish, pork, chicken, veal, etc.
For starters, there are the typical antipasti, as well as soups and salads. Our table took the special salad. A salad for $12.95 seemed a lot at first, but we were assured our group of four could split the dish. And indeed, when it arrived, it was more than enough for four. This was my first "warm" salad! A delicious mix of green, dried cranberries, nuts, and cheese, that was a hit of the table.
From among a mouth-watering selection of specials, our group choose the scrod with sweet potatoes and the pork osso bucco (sadly, the braised lamb shank was gone!), and - from the main menu - Sole Limone.
Service was fast, friendly and helpful (for both the wine list as well as dinning suggestions).
Overall, an excellent dining experience on the Cape.
More pictures.
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 29 September 2008
Address: 237 Main St., Falmouth, MA 02540
Website: N/A
Monday, September 22, 2008
A Tale of Two Chalans ....
El Chalan Restaurant (Washington, DC)
Chalan on the Beach (Miami Beach, FL)
OK, I know, you're likely to run into a "Chalan" if you go to any city with more than a couple of Peruvian restaurants (well ... if you're in the kind of city that would have more than one or even just one Peruvian restaurant!).
So, in just a little over two weeks, I had the opportunity to visit to Chalans, one in Washington (El Chalan) and one in Miami Beach (Chalan on the Beach). They were different, but both very good - in different ways of course!
El Chalan (DC) is located in Foggy Bottom down a flight of stairs and can easily be missed. But do not miss it!
For starters, we had the Ensalada Mixta (Tossed salad with Chalan house dressing). A very good and basic salad that set the stage for the meal to follow.
Sticking with beef and chicken, we had the Seco a la Hauchana (Beef stew cooked in cilantro sauce and spices, served with beans and rice) and the Aji de Gallina a la Arequipena (Shredded chicken cooked in a creamy garlic, onion and peanut sauce).
Both were very good, but the Seco a la Hauchana was spectacular. The beef was cooked just right and fell apart at the touch of your fork. The chicken was smooth and surprisingly not spicy.
El Chalan also features a nice selection of wines as well as some tasty looking Pisco Sours.
Chalan (Miami Beach) is located on Washington Ave., just off the more trendy Collins Ave. and a few blocks from the chic spots located along Lincoln Road. Chalan on the Beach gives you something that the eateries on Ocean Drive, Collins Ave., or Lincoln Road can't. Great food at a really great price with none of the SoBe attitude.
If you're looking for minor European or Latin American celebrities, you probably won't find them at Chalan on the Beach. If you're looking for a great meal (and don't mind spending LESS than $50 for two people WITH drinks!), then Chalan on the Beach is for you.
As with the Washington Chalan, we went with a beef and chicken pairing. Both dishes were tasty and well presented. We substituted a brown rice with vegetables with one dish that added a nice touch of difference.
We also ordered from the children's menu, which was not the greatest. The chicken fingers looked like they were fresh from the pre-packaged freezer. Stick with ordering from the main menu if possible.
All in all, a welcome difference from the typical Ocean Drive spot!
More photos from the two Chalans.
Restaurant: El Chalan Restaurant
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 30 July 2008
Address: 1924 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006
Website: http://www.elchalanrestaurant.com/
Restaurant: Chalan on the Beach
Meal: Dinner
Rating: *** of 5
Date: 17 August 2008
Address: 1580 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website: N/A
Chalan on the Beach (Miami Beach, FL)
OK, I know, you're likely to run into a "Chalan" if you go to any city with more than a couple of Peruvian restaurants (well ... if you're in the kind of city that would have more than one or even just one Peruvian restaurant!).
So, in just a little over two weeks, I had the opportunity to visit to Chalans, one in Washington (El Chalan) and one in Miami Beach (Chalan on the Beach). They were different, but both very good - in different ways of course!
El Chalan (DC) is located in Foggy Bottom down a flight of stairs and can easily be missed. But do not miss it!
For starters, we had the Ensalada Mixta (Tossed salad with Chalan house dressing). A very good and basic salad that set the stage for the meal to follow.
Sticking with beef and chicken, we had the Seco a la Hauchana (Beef stew cooked in cilantro sauce and spices, served with beans and rice) and the Aji de Gallina a la Arequipena (Shredded chicken cooked in a creamy garlic, onion and peanut sauce).
Both were very good, but the Seco a la Hauchana was spectacular. The beef was cooked just right and fell apart at the touch of your fork. The chicken was smooth and surprisingly not spicy.
El Chalan also features a nice selection of wines as well as some tasty looking Pisco Sours.
* * *
Chalan (Miami Beach) is located on Washington Ave., just off the more trendy Collins Ave. and a few blocks from the chic spots located along Lincoln Road. Chalan on the Beach gives you something that the eateries on Ocean Drive, Collins Ave., or Lincoln Road can't. Great food at a really great price with none of the SoBe attitude.
If you're looking for minor European or Latin American celebrities, you probably won't find them at Chalan on the Beach. If you're looking for a great meal (and don't mind spending LESS than $50 for two people WITH drinks!), then Chalan on the Beach is for you.
As with the Washington Chalan, we went with a beef and chicken pairing. Both dishes were tasty and well presented. We substituted a brown rice with vegetables with one dish that added a nice touch of difference.
We also ordered from the children's menu, which was not the greatest. The chicken fingers looked like they were fresh from the pre-packaged freezer. Stick with ordering from the main menu if possible.
All in all, a welcome difference from the typical Ocean Drive spot!
More photos from the two Chalans.
Restaurant: El Chalan Restaurant
Meal: Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 30 July 2008
Address: 1924 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006
Website: http://www.elchalanrestaurant.com/
Restaurant: Chalan on the Beach
Meal: Dinner
Rating: *** of 5
Date: 17 August 2008
Address: 1580 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website: N/A
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Guru: Teaching Miami Beach about Indian Food
Guru ... Fine Indian Dining
Guru, located between the trendy Collins Ave. and the slightly less trendy (well, much less trendy) Washington Ave. in South Beach, was great find, equaling the brilliant Indomania (sadly closed for the summer) form my last trip to Miami Beach.
The intimate dining room (that seated perhaps, 20 people - with additional seating for another 6 or so outside) was blessedly free of the incessant synthesizer EuropPop that graces nearly every SoBe resto. Service, by an international group of wait staff, was friendly and efficient.
The food, however, was fabulous. Excellently prepared and served beautifully!
For a starter, we ordered the Masala papadam. Served in a different manner (rolled into cones - see photo), they were served with delicious side of tomato/onion relish.
Entrees were Chicken Makhani (butter chicken), Bhuna Gosht (beef cubes with ginger and garam masala), and Palak Paneer (spinach, greens, and paneer in whole masala). The butter chicken was amazing and is highly recommended. Same with the Palak Paneer. The Bhuna Gosht (one so rarely finds beef in South Asian restaurants) was a delightful change of pace.
For a bread, we had the basic roti (very well done). All dishes were served with rice, and a tiny teacup of a very tasty Dall.
The menu also featured a large selection of seafood entries for those inclined.
See more photos.
Next time your in SoBe, run to Guru!
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 18 August 2008
Address: 232 12th St., Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website: http://www.gurufood.com/home.html
Guru, located between the trendy Collins Ave. and the slightly less trendy (well, much less trendy) Washington Ave. in South Beach, was great find, equaling the brilliant Indomania (sadly closed for the summer) form my last trip to Miami Beach.
The intimate dining room (that seated perhaps, 20 people - with additional seating for another 6 or so outside) was blessedly free of the incessant synthesizer EuropPop that graces nearly every SoBe resto. Service, by an international group of wait staff, was friendly and efficient.
The food, however, was fabulous. Excellently prepared and served beautifully!
For a starter, we ordered the Masala papadam. Served in a different manner (rolled into cones - see photo), they were served with delicious side of tomato/onion relish.
Entrees were Chicken Makhani (butter chicken), Bhuna Gosht (beef cubes with ginger and garam masala), and Palak Paneer (spinach, greens, and paneer in whole masala). The butter chicken was amazing and is highly recommended. Same with the Palak Paneer. The Bhuna Gosht (one so rarely finds beef in South Asian restaurants) was a delightful change of pace.
For a bread, we had the basic roti (very well done). All dishes were served with rice, and a tiny teacup of a very tasty Dall.
The menu also featured a large selection of seafood entries for those inclined.
See more photos.
Next time your in SoBe, run to Guru!
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 18 August 2008
Address: 232 12th St., Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website: http://www.gurufood.com/home.html
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Saddle up! Horseshoe Tavern
Horseshoe Tavern
So you're in the trendy Marina District of San Francisco, you've been drinking at the California Wine Merchant (review to come - and it is great!) in the evening and just feel like something different for a change.
So you think, where can I go to find a "real" bar? You know, the kind of place where you feet stick to the floor and there are grooves worn in the bar where the regulars sit. Yes, Liverpool Lil' (stay tuned for a review)! Wait, that's up near the Presidio and actually you were just there the other day.
Think now, right, I'm on Chestnut Street. Of course, the 'shoe, a local fixture since 1934. The perfect spot for a real drink or a quick beer.
Meal: Drinks
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 18 October 2007
Address: 2024 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA 94123
Website: n/a
Sunday, July 6, 2008
The Vault - where they don't lock up the hospitality!
The Vault
We've all heard about that place in Boston where "everybody knows your name". Well, I really do think that if I came to The Vault more than a couple of times, they really WOULD know my name. And you can bet the food is better than at that "cheer"-ful place off the Common!
Smack in the heart of Boston's financial district, The Vault is located in a former bank (and yes, the old vaults are still there and hold owner Packy Norton's stash of "the good stuff".
I was there on a weeknight around the time of the Bear-Stearns debacle, so the crowd was a little more subdued and thinner than I imagine they usually are.
You'll know you're in a great Boston bar from the moment you step through the doors. Plenty of wood, just enough glass and mirrors, and a wide, generous bar area perfect for filling up during after work happy hours.
So, what about the food? Well, it is Boston, so I started off with some chowder. Perfectly done, just the right mix of potatoes and clams, rich and creamy sauce.
I followed on with a burger (remember to order to a restaurant's strengths - The Vault just looked like they'd serve up a great burger and they did). A nice sized burger and all the sides, charred to perfection.
The staff were great. From the host staff on down the line. The bar staff pour a good drink and didn't shy away from some of the more complicated orders from our group.
More photos.
Dish: Burger
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 18 March 2008
Address: 105 Water Street, Boston, MA 02109
Website: N/A
We've all heard about that place in Boston where "everybody knows your name". Well, I really do think that if I came to The Vault more than a couple of times, they really WOULD know my name. And you can bet the food is better than at that "cheer"-ful place off the Common!
Smack in the heart of Boston's financial district, The Vault is located in a former bank (and yes, the old vaults are still there and hold owner Packy Norton's stash of "the good stuff".
I was there on a weeknight around the time of the Bear-Stearns debacle, so the crowd was a little more subdued and thinner than I imagine they usually are.
You'll know you're in a great Boston bar from the moment you step through the doors. Plenty of wood, just enough glass and mirrors, and a wide, generous bar area perfect for filling up during after work happy hours.
So, what about the food? Well, it is Boston, so I started off with some chowder. Perfectly done, just the right mix of potatoes and clams, rich and creamy sauce.
I followed on with a burger (remember to order to a restaurant's strengths - The Vault just looked like they'd serve up a great burger and they did). A nice sized burger and all the sides, charred to perfection.
The staff were great. From the host staff on down the line. The bar staff pour a good drink and didn't shy away from some of the more complicated orders from our group.
More photos.
Dish: Burger
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 18 March 2008
Address: 105 Water Street, Boston, MA 02109
Website: N/A
Roy's: Not your parents' Trader Vic's
Roy's Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine
Roy Yamaguchi opened the first "Roy's" in Honolulu in 1988. Since then, it's grown to a chain with locations around the country. I first saw a Roy's in Philadelphia and was intrigued by the concept. When I saw there was one in Anaheim, I felt I should give it a try.
My table started out with the Wood Grilled Szechwan Spiced Baby Back Pork Ribs and the Pacific Rim calamari. The ribs were excellent and I would highly recommend them. The calamari was something different. Cut in strips, the texture was more like that of lobster and didn't quite have the right "mouth feel" for squid. Different, but maybe a bit too different.
Others at the table had selections from the sushi menu (Lakanilau Roll Seared Kobe Beef wrapped around Dynamite Crab, Tempura, Asparagus & Avocado, and Auntie Lei’s Aloha Roll Spicy Tuna Roll topped with Hamachi, Salmon & Avocado). I tasted the kobe beef rolls and wasn't terribly impressed. Didn't quite work for me.
My own entree was the pork tenderloin (Apple Wood Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin Maple Miso Drizzle & Asian Pear Chutney). The pork was good, but a bit overwhelmed by all the accompaniments.
The Anaheim location has been open only a few months, but it looked like all the kinks were worked out. The host staff were very friendly and eager to please. The wait and other service staff were helpful (though not quite that familiar with the extensive wine list).
All in all, I think that Roy's makes a fine, but still "safe" exotic destination - a sort of Trader Vic's for the 21st century.
Dish: Pork tenderloin
Meal: Dinner
Rating: *** of 5
Date: 30 June 2008
Address: 321 West Katella Ave. Suite #105, Anaheim CA 92802
Website: http://www.roysrestaurant.com/
Roy Yamaguchi opened the first "Roy's" in Honolulu in 1988. Since then, it's grown to a chain with locations around the country. I first saw a Roy's in Philadelphia and was intrigued by the concept. When I saw there was one in Anaheim, I felt I should give it a try.
My table started out with the Wood Grilled Szechwan Spiced Baby Back Pork Ribs and the Pacific Rim calamari. The ribs were excellent and I would highly recommend them. The calamari was something different. Cut in strips, the texture was more like that of lobster and didn't quite have the right "mouth feel" for squid. Different, but maybe a bit too different.
Others at the table had selections from the sushi menu (Lakanilau Roll Seared Kobe Beef wrapped around Dynamite Crab, Tempura, Asparagus & Avocado, and Auntie Lei’s Aloha Roll Spicy Tuna Roll topped with Hamachi, Salmon & Avocado). I tasted the kobe beef rolls and wasn't terribly impressed. Didn't quite work for me.
My own entree was the pork tenderloin (Apple Wood Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin Maple Miso Drizzle & Asian Pear Chutney). The pork was good, but a bit overwhelmed by all the accompaniments.
The Anaheim location has been open only a few months, but it looked like all the kinks were worked out. The host staff were very friendly and eager to please. The wait and other service staff were helpful (though not quite that familiar with the extensive wine list).
All in all, I think that Roy's makes a fine, but still "safe" exotic destination - a sort of Trader Vic's for the 21st century.
Dish: Pork tenderloin
Meal: Dinner
Rating: *** of 5
Date: 30 June 2008
Address: 321 West Katella Ave. Suite #105, Anaheim CA 92802
Website: http://www.roysrestaurant.com/
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Gandhi Palace - Worth the wait!
Gandhi Palace
Anaheim was looking a little bleak in the foody department - at least in the areas around the Anaheim Resort/ Disney area. So when a colleague texted me and suggested lunch at an Indian place, I didn't pause before saying YES!
Located in a Ramada Inn just a few blocks from Disneyland, the exterior of the Gandhi Palace isn't terribly inspiring. A group of people queued at the door waiting to get in and the staff slowly seated each group in turn. The restaurant was pretty crowded and there was a big group, but still the wait wasn't that long.
Lunch was buffet style with everything that you might expect: lamb vindaloo, chicken korma, saag paneer; a selection of bread; raita; tandoori chicken, and more.
Reasonably priced ($9.84 with tax) for the all you can eat buffet, it made for a perfect change of pace.
So good in fact, that I returned later that night for dinner with a couple of colleagues. Again, there was a bit of a wait at the door and the staff were not particularly attentive, still the wait wasn't all that bad.
Ordering from the menu, we selected lamb vindaloo, a bhindi masala, and some other selected vegetable dishes. The wine list, though not extensive, did have just the white wine that we wanted.
And well, yes, the food is really good, so I came back again for dinner the next evening (for those of you who've lost count, this makes my third visit!). On this night, again, a line at the door, but I think they staff were starting to recognize me. After we were seated, we decided on the dinner buffet (not offered the previous night I was there). Similar to the lunch buffet, again, everything was great.
One small quibble, the tandoori chicken was a bit dry and thin on meat. The rich lamb vindaloo, however, more than makes up for it!
FYI, the restaurant offers a "traditional" American style breakfast of bacon, sausage, eggs, etc. - it would have been interesting to see an Indian breakfast buffet!
Dish: Variety of dishes
Meal: Lunch and Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 28 & 29 June 2008
Address: 515 W Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92802
Website: http://www.gandhipalace.com/
Anaheim was looking a little bleak in the foody department - at least in the areas around the Anaheim Resort/ Disney area. So when a colleague texted me and suggested lunch at an Indian place, I didn't pause before saying YES!
Located in a Ramada Inn just a few blocks from Disneyland, the exterior of the Gandhi Palace isn't terribly inspiring. A group of people queued at the door waiting to get in and the staff slowly seated each group in turn. The restaurant was pretty crowded and there was a big group, but still the wait wasn't that long.
Lunch was buffet style with everything that you might expect: lamb vindaloo, chicken korma, saag paneer; a selection of bread; raita; tandoori chicken, and more.
Reasonably priced ($9.84 with tax) for the all you can eat buffet, it made for a perfect change of pace.
So good in fact, that I returned later that night for dinner with a couple of colleagues. Again, there was a bit of a wait at the door and the staff were not particularly attentive, still the wait wasn't all that bad.
Ordering from the menu, we selected lamb vindaloo, a bhindi masala, and some other selected vegetable dishes. The wine list, though not extensive, did have just the white wine that we wanted.
And well, yes, the food is really good, so I came back again for dinner the next evening (for those of you who've lost count, this makes my third visit!). On this night, again, a line at the door, but I think they staff were starting to recognize me. After we were seated, we decided on the dinner buffet (not offered the previous night I was there). Similar to the lunch buffet, again, everything was great.
One small quibble, the tandoori chicken was a bit dry and thin on meat. The rich lamb vindaloo, however, more than makes up for it!
FYI, the restaurant offers a "traditional" American style breakfast of bacon, sausage, eggs, etc. - it would have been interesting to see an Indian breakfast buffet!
Dish: Variety of dishes
Meal: Lunch and Dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 28 & 29 June 2008
Address: 515 W Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92802
Website: http://www.gandhipalace.com/
Mr Stox - Best on the blox?
Mr Stox Restaurant
Need a table for two or a dinner for 10, 15, 20? Mr Stox is your place. Whether you're looking for a nicer place for a small dinner or hosting a larger event, Mr Stox, managed by the Marshall family since 1977 will fit the bill. I had a business dinner for eight and Mr Stox was just the right mix of casual and elegant. Located in a Mission-style complex that stretches further than it might look from the road, Mr Stox offers a number of different settings from the large dining room (with both booths and tables) to an enclosed patio area that is perfect for a larger dinner.
The menu offers an extensive selection of "classic" dishes of fish, meat, and poultry. With a few "trendy" items on the menu (ahi, osso buco, portobello mushrooms) as well as something you might not expect to see in Southern California (Maryland crab cakes! - the wait staff informed us that the owner was from the Chesapeake area), selections should meet nearly every taste.
For appetizers, the table split orders of onion rings (nice and large and neatly battered) and ravioli (a tasty spring pea ravioli with crispy pancetta and a smoked paprika cream sauce); I added a Caesar salad to the mix.
Others at the table selected the halibut, swordfish, crabcakes, and portobello for entrees. I selected the duck. The Mesquite grilled duck breast and confit of leg was served with a red beet purée with pears and King Oyster mushrooms. The duck was well done and the mushrooms added just the right touch.
Dessert offerings included a crispy fruit tart.
Service was knowledgeable and attentive. A nice wine selection compliments the extensive menu.
More photos.
Dish: Duck
Meal: Mr Stox
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 27 June 2008
Address: 1105 E Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92805
Website: http://www.mrstox.com/
Need a table for two or a dinner for 10, 15, 20? Mr Stox is your place. Whether you're looking for a nicer place for a small dinner or hosting a larger event, Mr Stox, managed by the Marshall family since 1977 will fit the bill. I had a business dinner for eight and Mr Stox was just the right mix of casual and elegant. Located in a Mission-style complex that stretches further than it might look from the road, Mr Stox offers a number of different settings from the large dining room (with both booths and tables) to an enclosed patio area that is perfect for a larger dinner.
The menu offers an extensive selection of "classic" dishes of fish, meat, and poultry. With a few "trendy" items on the menu (ahi, osso buco, portobello mushrooms) as well as something you might not expect to see in Southern California (Maryland crab cakes! - the wait staff informed us that the owner was from the Chesapeake area), selections should meet nearly every taste.
For appetizers, the table split orders of onion rings (nice and large and neatly battered) and ravioli (a tasty spring pea ravioli with crispy pancetta and a smoked paprika cream sauce); I added a Caesar salad to the mix.
Others at the table selected the halibut, swordfish, crabcakes, and portobello for entrees. I selected the duck. The Mesquite grilled duck breast and confit of leg was served with a red beet purée with pears and King Oyster mushrooms. The duck was well done and the mushrooms added just the right touch.
Dessert offerings included a crispy fruit tart.
Service was knowledgeable and attentive. A nice wine selection compliments the extensive menu.
More photos.
Dish: Duck
Meal: Mr Stox
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 27 June 2008
Address: 1105 E Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92805
Website: http://www.mrstox.com/
JT Schmid’s: Come for the beer!
JT Schmid’s
Where to go on Anaheim? Well, that's a good question, so, looking around the web, I found JT Schmid's. Located near the Honda Center (home of the Might Ducks) and within sight of Angel's Stadium on a weird little strip mall, the vast restaurant dominated the area. It looked like the perfect place to bring a large group, but on a Thursday night, it was pretty quiet.
Starting off with the Panko Crusted Tuna Roll (Sushi grade tuna wrapped in spinach and panko flakes. Flash fried and served with a wasabi soy sauce) and an excellent IPA (from the onsite brewery), things looked good.
The tuna roll was quite good with a reduced soy sauce, ginger, and wasabi.
For dinner, my table got two orders of ribs, the Baby Back Ribs and the Beef Back Ribs. The baby back ribs were quite good, but the beef ribs were a little on the fatty side. For sides,we had the shoe string fries (very good), coleslaw, and sweet potato fries (also quite good).
Service was excellent and the waiter knew the menu (but wasn't bold enough to steer us away from the beef ribs!). Come with a large group, get a beer, and stick with the basic fare!
An additional location in nearby Tustin.
More photos.
Dish: Ribs
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ** of 5
Date: 26 June 2008
Address: 2610 E Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806
Website: http://jtschmids.com/
Where to go on Anaheim? Well, that's a good question, so, looking around the web, I found JT Schmid's. Located near the Honda Center (home of the Might Ducks) and within sight of Angel's Stadium on a weird little strip mall, the vast restaurant dominated the area. It looked like the perfect place to bring a large group, but on a Thursday night, it was pretty quiet.
Starting off with the Panko Crusted Tuna Roll (Sushi grade tuna wrapped in spinach and panko flakes. Flash fried and served with a wasabi soy sauce) and an excellent IPA (from the onsite brewery), things looked good.
The tuna roll was quite good with a reduced soy sauce, ginger, and wasabi.
For dinner, my table got two orders of ribs, the Baby Back Ribs and the Beef Back Ribs. The baby back ribs were quite good, but the beef ribs were a little on the fatty side. For sides,we had the shoe string fries (very good), coleslaw, and sweet potato fries (also quite good).
Service was excellent and the waiter knew the menu (but wasn't bold enough to steer us away from the beef ribs!). Come with a large group, get a beer, and stick with the basic fare!
An additional location in nearby Tustin.
More photos.
Dish: Ribs
Meal: Dinner
Rating: ** of 5
Date: 26 June 2008
Address: 2610 E Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806
Website: http://jtschmids.com/
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Rasika, High powered Indian fusion food
Rasika
Billing itself as a "modern" Indian restaurant, Rasika (meaning "flavors" in Sanskrit) is one of the hotest tickets in Washington. Located in the increasingly trendy Penn Quarter, Rasika is smack in the middle of a number of theaters and the Verizon Center sports complex.
With a sleek modern decor, the noise level can get pretty loud - even at lunch (there is a private dining room). Also, for those of you silly enough not to make reservations, you might be able to squeeze in at the bar which has an ample seating area (this was my first experience at Rasika!)
On this visit, I was with a group of colleagues for lunch and we selected broadly from the menu and shared around the table. Our selections on this visit were:
Appetizers
The eggplant appetizer was nicely served with 50 cent piece sized sliced of eggplant interleaved with finely diced potatos. The eggplant was very subtle and didn't overpower the potatos or peanut sauce.
The Bhindi amchoor (okra) was zippy with a snap of spicy hotness that hits you after a bite or two. A big fan of okra, I was intrigued by the preparation - thin, long slices (almost julienned). Even the non-okra lovers at the table were pleased.
The mixed vegetables were extremly rich, almost swimming in a soup of coconut milk; this made for a good pairing with the tasty lemon cashew rice Dessert was a pleasant Mango kulfi and an intriguing Carrot halwa.
Accompanied by a bread basket with a selection of three breads, it made for a great lunch!
Oh, did I forget something? No, I was just saving it for last. The Palak chaat. This is why you need to come to Rasika. This is the reason to stand in the bar area. Run, don't walk to Rasika for the Palak chaat! Now! Two words, crispy spinach. Flash fry spinach til it takes on a third state of existence garnish with yogurt, tamarind and date chutney and then watch it disappear. The spinach literally melts in your mouth letting the other flavors explode in your mouth. Simply fabulous!
As a side note, for your dinner visit, do sample something from the excellent wine selection. The sommelier is one of the best in Washington and the wait staff is well prepared to offer wine pairings.
Meal: Lunch
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 16 June 2008
Address: 633 D St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Website: http://www.rasikarestaurant.com/
Billing itself as a "modern" Indian restaurant, Rasika (meaning "flavors" in Sanskrit) is one of the hotest tickets in Washington. Located in the increasingly trendy Penn Quarter, Rasika is smack in the middle of a number of theaters and the Verizon Center sports complex.
With a sleek modern decor, the noise level can get pretty loud - even at lunch (there is a private dining room). Also, for those of you silly enough not to make reservations, you might be able to squeeze in at the bar which has an ample seating area (this was my first experience at Rasika!)
On this visit, I was with a group of colleagues for lunch and we selected broadly from the menu and shared around the table. Our selections on this visit were:
Appetizers
- Tawa baingan (eggplant, spiced potato, peanut sauce)
- Palak chaat (crispy spinach, sweet yogurt, tamarind, date chutney)
- Bhindi amchoor (sliced okra, dry mango powder)
- Tandoori salmon
- Vegetable moilee (mixed vegetables with chili and coconut milk)
- Lemon cashew nut rice
- variety of three breads
- Mango kulfi
- Carrot halwa with cinnamon sabayon
The eggplant appetizer was nicely served with 50 cent piece sized sliced of eggplant interleaved with finely diced potatos. The eggplant was very subtle and didn't overpower the potatos or peanut sauce.
The Bhindi amchoor (okra) was zippy with a snap of spicy hotness that hits you after a bite or two. A big fan of okra, I was intrigued by the preparation - thin, long slices (almost julienned). Even the non-okra lovers at the table were pleased.
The mixed vegetables were extremly rich, almost swimming in a soup of coconut milk; this made for a good pairing with the tasty lemon cashew rice Dessert was a pleasant Mango kulfi and an intriguing Carrot halwa.
Accompanied by a bread basket with a selection of three breads, it made for a great lunch!
Oh, did I forget something? No, I was just saving it for last. The Palak chaat. This is why you need to come to Rasika. This is the reason to stand in the bar area. Run, don't walk to Rasika for the Palak chaat! Now! Two words, crispy spinach. Flash fry spinach til it takes on a third state of existence garnish with yogurt, tamarind and date chutney and then watch it disappear. The spinach literally melts in your mouth letting the other flavors explode in your mouth. Simply fabulous!
As a side note, for your dinner visit, do sample something from the excellent wine selection. The sommelier is one of the best in Washington and the wait staff is well prepared to offer wine pairings.
Meal: Lunch
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 16 June 2008
Address: 633 D St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Website: http://www.rasikarestaurant.com/
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Zorba's Cafe: Gyro gyro beer!
Zorba's Cafe
I'm not quite sure I want to think how many years it's been since my favorite Greek place in Washington closed down (moment of silence please for the regularly lamented Vesuvio's Pizza in Dupont Circle, home of the perfect thin greasy pizza by the slice - for those who want to know, we lost Vesuvio's in 1996 to a Wrap Works, itself now replaced by a white table cloth joint).
But enough of that! At hand now is Zorba's Cafe, In the good old days of Vesuvio's (sorry, I must harken back), Zorba's was my "upscale" stop before (or after) an opening at the Phillips Collection (just around the corner) or before a night at the theatre. In those days, as an added bonus, the Skenderis Food Market was above the cafe (now converted into extra seating).
So, what does Zorba's offer? Well, great food, great prices, fast service, and a great view. Though the pizza by the slice is ok (a little thick and not greasy enough), the gyro (sandwich or platter) is fabulous. The various other typical Greek choices (mousaka, soulvlaki, etc.) are all excellent.
Service is fast! You order at the counter and pick up yourself. But don't bus your own table, the friendly staff take care of that for you.
I generally stick with the gyro sandwich and a cold beer (which comes with a frosty mug!) and sit upstairs to look out over Connecticut Ave. or, in nice weather, outside to get an even better look at the street life passing by.
Even though it's not Vesuvio's, if you're looking for a fast, tasty, cheap, and quintessentially local meal in Dupont, head over to Zorba's.
More photos from Zorba's.
Meal: Lunch
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 4 May 2008 (regular)
Address: 1612 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Website: http://www.zorbascafe.com/
I'm not quite sure I want to think how many years it's been since my favorite Greek place in Washington closed down (moment of silence please for the regularly lamented Vesuvio's Pizza in Dupont Circle, home of the perfect thin greasy pizza by the slice - for those who want to know, we lost Vesuvio's in 1996 to a Wrap Works, itself now replaced by a white table cloth joint).
But enough of that! At hand now is Zorba's Cafe, In the good old days of Vesuvio's (sorry, I must harken back), Zorba's was my "upscale" stop before (or after) an opening at the Phillips Collection (just around the corner) or before a night at the theatre. In those days, as an added bonus, the Skenderis Food Market was above the cafe (now converted into extra seating).
So, what does Zorba's offer? Well, great food, great prices, fast service, and a great view. Though the pizza by the slice is ok (a little thick and not greasy enough), the gyro (sandwich or platter) is fabulous. The various other typical Greek choices (mousaka, soulvlaki, etc.) are all excellent.
Service is fast! You order at the counter and pick up yourself. But don't bus your own table, the friendly staff take care of that for you.
I generally stick with the gyro sandwich and a cold beer (which comes with a frosty mug!) and sit upstairs to look out over Connecticut Ave. or, in nice weather, outside to get an even better look at the street life passing by.
Even though it's not Vesuvio's, if you're looking for a fast, tasty, cheap, and quintessentially local meal in Dupont, head over to Zorba's.
More photos from Zorba's.
Meal: Lunch
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 4 May 2008 (regular)
Address: 1612 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Website: http://www.zorbascafe.com/
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Pop's is Tops for Old Town Ice Cream
Pop's Old Fashion Ice Cream Company
A hot day, a long visit to Mt. Vernon, a stroll along the Potomac waterfront in Old Town Alexandria ... what else could top off the day but some tasty, cool ice cream?
Pop's has the look, feel, and smell of an "old fashion" ice cream parlor. Small tables, a nice big fountain area, mirrors on the wall, the usual.
The ice cream is tasty (and pricey - but where isn't a good cone pricey?). If you want some good ice cream in Alexandria, stop at Pop's!
Meal: Snack
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 1 June 2008
Address: 109 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Website: N/A
A hot day, a long visit to Mt. Vernon, a stroll along the Potomac waterfront in Old Town Alexandria ... what else could top off the day but some tasty, cool ice cream?
Pop's has the look, feel, and smell of an "old fashion" ice cream parlor. Small tables, a nice big fountain area, mirrors on the wall, the usual.
The ice cream is tasty (and pricey - but where isn't a good cone pricey?). If you want some good ice cream in Alexandria, stop at Pop's!
Meal: Snack
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 1 June 2008
Address: 109 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Website: N/A
Ten Penh, a solid 10!
Ten Penh
Located at the corner of 10th and Penn. Ave., NW (get it, 10/Penn?), Ten Penh offers an Asian fusion in an elegant environment. Choose either the dining room, the bar, or (weather permitting) the sidewalk tables where you can watch everything from Presidential motorcades to tour busses rolling past.
The elegance of the setting is more than matched by the spectacular food. I've never been disappointed by anything I've ordered.
My most recent visit was a lunch with colleagues after a half day presentation. Walking the few blocks through the unseasonable (even for Washington in early June) heat, we were a bit disappointed that the a/c wasn't keeping up with the stress, but we soon adapted. Water came quickly and the edamame (baby soybeans) hit the spot.
I went with the Grilled Thai Beef Salad (Mixed Greens, Carrots, Tomatoes, Chile-Lime Dressing), the others in my party had the Pan Seared Scallops (Asian Potato Cake, Fennel Tangerine Salad, Spicy Citrus Glaze), and the Pan Seared Ahi Tuna Burger (wasabi Aioli, Pickled Ginger and Asian Slaw).
Along with DC Coast, Acadiana, and Ceiba (I've only been to the latter), Ten Penh is part of the Passion Foods group.
A perfect spot for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or an after work snack at the bar!
Dish: Grilled Thai Beef Salad
Meal: Lunch
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 6 June 2008
Address: 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
Website: http://www.tenpenh.com/
Located at the corner of 10th and Penn. Ave., NW (get it, 10/Penn?), Ten Penh offers an Asian fusion in an elegant environment. Choose either the dining room, the bar, or (weather permitting) the sidewalk tables where you can watch everything from Presidential motorcades to tour busses rolling past.
The elegance of the setting is more than matched by the spectacular food. I've never been disappointed by anything I've ordered.
My most recent visit was a lunch with colleagues after a half day presentation. Walking the few blocks through the unseasonable (even for Washington in early June) heat, we were a bit disappointed that the a/c wasn't keeping up with the stress, but we soon adapted. Water came quickly and the edamame (baby soybeans) hit the spot.
I went with the Grilled Thai Beef Salad (Mixed Greens, Carrots, Tomatoes, Chile-Lime Dressing), the others in my party had the Pan Seared Scallops (Asian Potato Cake, Fennel Tangerine Salad, Spicy Citrus Glaze), and the Pan Seared Ahi Tuna Burger (wasabi Aioli, Pickled Ginger and Asian Slaw).
Along with DC Coast, Acadiana, and Ceiba (I've only been to the latter), Ten Penh is part of the Passion Foods group.
A perfect spot for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or an after work snack at the bar!
Dish: Grilled Thai Beef Salad
Meal: Lunch
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 6 June 2008
Address: 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
Website: http://www.tenpenh.com/
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Amada, Philadelphia styled tapas
Amada
Who can't find something to like at a tapas restaurant? Everything from meats, to cheese, to a variety of vegetables, mushrooms, to seafood. Best of all, if you don't like one thing, there's always more of something else (the downside being if you really love something, you'll have to order another one which is why I sometimes think "tapas" is Spanish for "dollars"!.
Amada has the trendy minimalist look often favored by tapas restaurants. Black tables, chrome chairs, high ceilings with the requisite high volume noise level. Amada adds a curious touch.
In the middle of the main dining area is a slightly raised pedestal with a long, rough cut family-style table with bench seats.
Service was great; the server was happy to offer suggestions (which I like in a tapas place) and filled out small plates to make sure we had enough to go around the table.
On this visit, our group of seven shared: cured meat selection (chorizo, serrano ham, lomo embuchado); three cheese selection; Spanish tortilla; artisanal Spanish olives; and ham croquets, grilled vegetables; grilled wild mushrooms; and chicken brochettes. All the selections were excellent! Standouts were the wild mushrooms and the Spanish tortilla (which was accompanied by a tasty side of queso.
A highly recommended stop if your in Philadelphia's Old City.
Dish: tapas selections
Meal: lunch
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 4 June 2008
Address: 217-219 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia PA 19106
Website: http://www.amadarestaurant.com/
Who can't find something to like at a tapas restaurant? Everything from meats, to cheese, to a variety of vegetables, mushrooms, to seafood. Best of all, if you don't like one thing, there's always more of something else (the downside being if you really love something, you'll have to order another one which is why I sometimes think "tapas" is Spanish for "dollars"!.
Amada has the trendy minimalist look often favored by tapas restaurants. Black tables, chrome chairs, high ceilings with the requisite high volume noise level. Amada adds a curious touch.
In the middle of the main dining area is a slightly raised pedestal with a long, rough cut family-style table with bench seats.
Service was great; the server was happy to offer suggestions (which I like in a tapas place) and filled out small plates to make sure we had enough to go around the table.
On this visit, our group of seven shared: cured meat selection (chorizo, serrano ham, lomo embuchado); three cheese selection; Spanish tortilla; artisanal Spanish olives; and ham croquets, grilled vegetables; grilled wild mushrooms; and chicken brochettes. All the selections were excellent! Standouts were the wild mushrooms and the Spanish tortilla (which was accompanied by a tasty side of queso.
A highly recommended stop if your in Philadelphia's Old City.
Dish: tapas selections
Meal: lunch
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 4 June 2008
Address: 217-219 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia PA 19106
Website: http://www.amadarestaurant.com/
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Kanpai, more than just sushi!
Kanpai
Rosslyn, in Arlington, Virginia, is not the liveliest spot on the weekend. There are a few places that draw a crowd (Cafe Asia), but on the weekends it can be a bit quiet. Right near each other on Wilson Blvd. are two the best: Kanpai and Santa Fe Cafe.
Kanpai is a compact Japanese restaurant with a nice little sushi bar and an excellent selection of teriyaki, tempura, udon, and more.
Most entrees are served with a side salad (iceberg lettuce with a choice of sesame or ginger dressing), miso soup, and rise. I like the various katsu options (beef, chicken, pork, deep fried and covered with breadcrumbs served with katsu sauce!). The wide selection of appetizers make for a great start or options for sharing with a group.
The wine list is pleasantly varied and there is a wide selection of Japanese beers.
Dish: Beef Katsu
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 31 May 2008
Address: 1401 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209
Website: http://www.kanpai-sushi.com/
Rosslyn, in Arlington, Virginia, is not the liveliest spot on the weekend. There are a few places that draw a crowd (Cafe Asia), but on the weekends it can be a bit quiet. Right near each other on Wilson Blvd. are two the best: Kanpai and Santa Fe Cafe.
Kanpai is a compact Japanese restaurant with a nice little sushi bar and an excellent selection of teriyaki, tempura, udon, and more.
Most entrees are served with a side salad (iceberg lettuce with a choice of sesame or ginger dressing), miso soup, and rise. I like the various katsu options (beef, chicken, pork, deep fried and covered with breadcrumbs served with katsu sauce!). The wide selection of appetizers make for a great start or options for sharing with a group.
The wine list is pleasantly varied and there is a wide selection of Japanese beers.
Dish: Beef Katsu
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 31 May 2008
Address: 1401 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209
Website: http://www.kanpai-sushi.com/
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Nexxt ... Please!!!
NexxtCafe
You're in Miami Beach on a beautiful spring night, it's not too hot or humid, you're out with friends after going to a museum reception. What do you want to top off the evening? Al fresco dining on a trendy and lively street (say Lincoln Road?). Of course. Where do you go, well, there, in the middle of Lincoln Road sits NexxtCafe (what is it with the lack of spaces? Is it supposed to be "webby"? Is it an attempt to be more "green" by saving ink, paper and pixels?).
Quick, grab a table for eight before someone else does (which they will) and take a seat. You'll get friendly and lively service, big drinks, and, sorry to say, mediocre food.
Well, you can't really have it all!
We had some pretty good appetizers (fried calamari, summer rolls, Chinese lettuce wraps). But then I made the mistake of ordering an entree. Maybe it was just having had a couple of fabulous meals, maybe I ordered wrong, but what came was the "Border Salad".
The waiter rolled up in a forklift and dropped off a heaping helpin' of chopped lettuce and lots of other stuff ... it wasn't bad, but, well, it just wasn't good. But there was a lot of it, which, well, means there was a lot of it!
Nexxttime, I'll stick with the appetizers, drinks, and people watching!
p.s. do visit the website, it has one of the cooler "restaurant themed" interactive menus I've seen
Dish: Border Salad and appetizers
Meal: dinner
Rating: * of 5
Date: 6 March 2008
Address: 700 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website: http://www.thenexxtcafe.com/
You're in Miami Beach on a beautiful spring night, it's not too hot or humid, you're out with friends after going to a museum reception. What do you want to top off the evening? Al fresco dining on a trendy and lively street (say Lincoln Road?). Of course. Where do you go, well, there, in the middle of Lincoln Road sits NexxtCafe (what is it with the lack of spaces? Is it supposed to be "webby"? Is it an attempt to be more "green" by saving ink, paper and pixels?).
Quick, grab a table for eight before someone else does (which they will) and take a seat. You'll get friendly and lively service, big drinks, and, sorry to say, mediocre food.
Well, you can't really have it all!
We had some pretty good appetizers (fried calamari, summer rolls, Chinese lettuce wraps). But then I made the mistake of ordering an entree. Maybe it was just having had a couple of fabulous meals, maybe I ordered wrong, but what came was the "Border Salad".
The waiter rolled up in a forklift and dropped off a heaping helpin' of chopped lettuce and lots of other stuff ... it wasn't bad, but, well, it just wasn't good. But there was a lot of it, which, well, means there was a lot of it!
Nexxttime, I'll stick with the appetizers, drinks, and people watching!
p.s. do visit the website, it has one of the cooler "restaurant themed" interactive menus I've seen
Dish: Border Salad and appetizers
Meal: dinner
Rating: * of 5
Date: 6 March 2008
Address: 700 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website: http://www.thenexxtcafe.com/
LemonGrass ... STL Pho!
LemonGrass
Pho, a Vietnamese soup heavy on the cilantro, is a fabulously filling dish with just the right amount of "DIY" to make it fun to boot!
In my Arlington, Virginia neighborhood is Pho 79, one of a group of highly rated - and delicous - pho restaurants. Never one to pass up an opportunity for pho, when Chris (of Countrypolitancooking fame) suggested we go to LemonGrass while I was in St. Louis, it was a no brainer.
Driving from the Missouri Botanical Garden, we took a quick driving tour of Tower Grove Park before turning up Grand Ave. and parking outside LemonGrass.
Walking in past the cook "lobster lights"(see below) we were seated and dove into the menu. I selected the Pho Tai Chin (sliced beef). We also split an appetizer of summer rolls.
When the pho arrived, I added fresh cilantro and bean sprouts to taste and a healthy dollop of chili paste (which I could eat all by itself!). Between the heat of the soup and the chili paste, I was good and warmed up on a slightly rainy Missouri afternoon.
FYI, just to mingle some botany, some taxonomy, and some cooking, visit the Biodiversity Heritage Library to learn more about "lemon grass" or Cymbopogon citratus)
Dish: Medium Rare Beef & Sliced Beef Rice Noodle (Pho Tai Chin)
Meal: lunch
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 27 March 2008
Address: 3161 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63118
Website: http://www.lemongrass-rest.com/
Pho, a Vietnamese soup heavy on the cilantro, is a fabulously filling dish with just the right amount of "DIY" to make it fun to boot!
In my Arlington, Virginia neighborhood is Pho 79, one of a group of highly rated - and delicous - pho restaurants. Never one to pass up an opportunity for pho, when Chris (of Countrypolitancooking fame) suggested we go to LemonGrass while I was in St. Louis, it was a no brainer.
Driving from the Missouri Botanical Garden, we took a quick driving tour of Tower Grove Park before turning up Grand Ave. and parking outside LemonGrass.
Walking in past the cook "lobster lights"(see below) we were seated and dove into the menu. I selected the Pho Tai Chin (sliced beef). We also split an appetizer of summer rolls.
When the pho arrived, I added fresh cilantro and bean sprouts to taste and a healthy dollop of chili paste (which I could eat all by itself!). Between the heat of the soup and the chili paste, I was good and warmed up on a slightly rainy Missouri afternoon.
FYI, just to mingle some botany, some taxonomy, and some cooking, visit the Biodiversity Heritage Library to learn more about "lemon grass" or Cymbopogon citratus)
Dish: Medium Rare Beef & Sliced Beef Rice Noodle (Pho Tai Chin)
Meal: lunch
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 27 March 2008
Address: 3161 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63118
Website: http://www.lemongrass-rest.com/
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Burma ... halfway between India and Thailand
Burma
Washington's Chinatown has always had an interesting mix of restaurants. Yes, there is Chinese, but also Indian, Mongolian, an Irish pub, and Burmese!
For those of you who've never had Burmese food, go now and find the nearest Burmese restaurant and hope that it's as good as Burma. Somewhere between Indian and Thai (with a tasty focus on ginger), the cuisine is a little of both, but something all it's own.
Located around the corner from Mary Surratt's boarding house (where John Wilkes Booth stayed) and up a dingy flight of stairs, the first thing you'll notice about Burma is the ambiance is terrible! But don't let that put you off (likewise, don't be put off by the slightly off color in my picture of the green tea leaf salad.
It's best to go in a group so that you can sample as many dishes as possible (or just keep going back). It's an inexpensive treat in DC and off the beaten tourist path of Fuddruckers, Hard Rocks, and TGI Fridays.
Dish: Don't miss the green tea leaf salad!
Meal: dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 5 May 2008
Address: 740 6Th St NW; Washington, DC 20001
Website: N/A
Washington's Chinatown has always had an interesting mix of restaurants. Yes, there is Chinese, but also Indian, Mongolian, an Irish pub, and Burmese!
For those of you who've never had Burmese food, go now and find the nearest Burmese restaurant and hope that it's as good as Burma. Somewhere between Indian and Thai (with a tasty focus on ginger), the cuisine is a little of both, but something all it's own.
Located around the corner from Mary Surratt's boarding house (where John Wilkes Booth stayed) and up a dingy flight of stairs, the first thing you'll notice about Burma is the ambiance is terrible! But don't let that put you off (likewise, don't be put off by the slightly off color in my picture of the green tea leaf salad.
It's best to go in a group so that you can sample as many dishes as possible (or just keep going back). It's an inexpensive treat in DC and off the beaten tourist path of Fuddruckers, Hard Rocks, and TGI Fridays.
Dish: Don't miss the green tea leaf salad!
Meal: dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 5 May 2008
Address: 740 6Th St NW; Washington, DC 20001
Website: N/A
Capitol Lounge
Capitol Lounge
The House side of the Hill (Capitol Hill that is) is a great place to hang out after a busy day of lobbying, reading at the Library of Congress, or touristing around Washington.
There are fabulous upscale places to choose from (see, for example, Sonoma!), but for those of you who are interns or low level staffers (or just wish you were!), there are places like the Capitol Lounge.
Will walls thick with political memorabilia, you'll feel right at home chatting about HR 2032 or Obama's chances in Puerto Rico.
Happy hour will get you cheap drinks ($4 rail cocktails) and the kind of food that will stick to you (hey, you're getting cheap drinks, fried things, and politics - what more do you really want?).
On my visit, the downstairs Fez Bar wasn't open, but confidants tell me you shouldn't miss it. And be sure to check out the website ... the FAQ will gently remind you you have to be 21 to drink and that they do have a lost and found (in case you, er, actually remember losing something there, as opposed to somewhere else you stumbled home from!
Meal: drinks
Rating: ***** of 5 (yes, 5 stars, but just because it's a 5 star dive)
Date: 7 May 2008
Address: 229 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003
Website: http://capitolloungedc.com
The House side of the Hill (Capitol Hill that is) is a great place to hang out after a busy day of lobbying, reading at the Library of Congress, or touristing around Washington.
There are fabulous upscale places to choose from (see, for example, Sonoma!), but for those of you who are interns or low level staffers (or just wish you were!), there are places like the Capitol Lounge.
Will walls thick with political memorabilia, you'll feel right at home chatting about HR 2032 or Obama's chances in Puerto Rico.
Happy hour will get you cheap drinks ($4 rail cocktails) and the kind of food that will stick to you (hey, you're getting cheap drinks, fried things, and politics - what more do you really want?).
On my visit, the downstairs Fez Bar wasn't open, but confidants tell me you shouldn't miss it. And be sure to check out the website ... the FAQ will gently remind you you have to be 21 to drink and that they do have a lost and found (in case you, er, actually remember losing something there, as opposed to somewhere else you stumbled home from!
Meal: drinks
Rating: ***** of 5 (yes, 5 stars, but just because it's a 5 star dive)
Date: 7 May 2008
Address: 229 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003
Website: http://capitolloungedc.com
Sonoma ... the wine country comes to Capitol Hill
Sonoma Restaurant and Wine Bar
The Penn. Ave., SE portion of Capitol Hill (the "House Side" for you DC insiders) has always been an interesting mix of divvy bars (see, for example, the Capitol Lounge) and upscale restaurants. One of the nicer on the "upscale" side to appear in the past few years is Sonoma.
On my most recent visit, my party of three opted for a three cheese platter (there's always an excellent selection, I usually just let the server pick for me from the cow/goat/sheep/blue options) and the bluebay mussels marniere with garlic, chili, and wine sauce. The mussels were good (but for the definitive mussels in the Washington area, I'll still point you to Les Halles way at the other end of Penn. Ave!).
Needless to say, the wine list is exemplary! But for those of you on a budget (uh, warning, if you're really on a budget, you probably don't want to come here!), there is always a good "house selection" that will not destroy your wallet!
If stopping by for a lighter meal, be sure to get a seat in the upstairs lounge. The low couches and open seating will make certain that you are seen and can be seen!
Dish: mussels and three cheese
Meal: light dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 7 May 2008
Address: 223 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003
Website: http://www.sonomadc.com
The Penn. Ave., SE portion of Capitol Hill (the "House Side" for you DC insiders) has always been an interesting mix of divvy bars (see, for example, the Capitol Lounge) and upscale restaurants. One of the nicer on the "upscale" side to appear in the past few years is Sonoma.
On my most recent visit, my party of three opted for a three cheese platter (there's always an excellent selection, I usually just let the server pick for me from the cow/goat/sheep/blue options) and the bluebay mussels marniere with garlic, chili, and wine sauce. The mussels were good (but for the definitive mussels in the Washington area, I'll still point you to Les Halles way at the other end of Penn. Ave!).
Needless to say, the wine list is exemplary! But for those of you on a budget (uh, warning, if you're really on a budget, you probably don't want to come here!), there is always a good "house selection" that will not destroy your wallet!
If stopping by for a lighter meal, be sure to get a seat in the upstairs lounge. The low couches and open seating will make certain that you are seen and can be seen!Dish: mussels and three cheese
Meal: light dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 7 May 2008
Address: 223 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003
Website: http://www.sonomadc.com
Sub Zero ... my kind of place!
Sub Zero
I like things cold! My office is freezing ... people wear sweaters when they come to see me. Doncha know that I would just love a place called Sub Zero!!!
Well, one problem, I'm not really a vodka person, when it comes to "clears" I'm a gin guy. When I was a kid reading Orwell's 1984, I could tasty the oily smoothness of Winston Smith's Victory Gin. My tastes run more towards Bombay Sapphire and Hendrick's which I'm sure Winston and Julia would never recognize as gin! But I digress!!!
Sub Zero does vodka. Very well! Take a look at the picture: the vodka is kept in the freezer behind the bar. And look closely at the bar, it's frozen. Yes, I'm sure it doesn't really keep the drinks that much colder, but is sure is cool (pun intended!).
As part of my culinary tour of St. Louis, Chris started off with drinks at Sub Zero (where we met up with The Brad for some killer conversation) and finished up later for dinner at The Scottish Arms (review to come).
So, with 200 vodkas to choose from, where to start? I went with a cocktail, the Antioxidant (Pearl Pomegranate Vodka, Stoli Blueberri Vodka, DeKuyper Pomegranate Liqueur and a splash of cranberry) that was quite tasty; I followed that with at Tang Martini (Grey Goose L’Orange, mango liqueur and splash of orange juice). OK, I know, I should have just stuck with vodka shots and laid off the "girly" drinks, but they just looked so good on the frozen bar!
Sad to say, I never had a chance to try their sushi ... but maybe next time!
Dish: cocktails
Meal: drinks
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 26 March 2008
Address: 308 N Euclid Ave., St Louis, MO 63108
Website: http://www.subzerovodkabar.com/
I like things cold! My office is freezing ... people wear sweaters when they come to see me. Doncha know that I would just love a place called Sub Zero!!!
Well, one problem, I'm not really a vodka person, when it comes to "clears" I'm a gin guy. When I was a kid reading Orwell's 1984, I could tasty the oily smoothness of Winston Smith's Victory Gin. My tastes run more towards Bombay Sapphire and Hendrick's which I'm sure Winston and Julia would never recognize as gin! But I digress!!!
Sub Zero does vodka. Very well! Take a look at the picture: the vodka is kept in the freezer behind the bar. And look closely at the bar, it's frozen. Yes, I'm sure it doesn't really keep the drinks that much colder, but is sure is cool (pun intended!).
As part of my culinary tour of St. Louis, Chris started off with drinks at Sub Zero (where we met up with The Brad for some killer conversation) and finished up later for dinner at The Scottish Arms (review to come).
So, with 200 vodkas to choose from, where to start? I went with a cocktail, the Antioxidant (Pearl Pomegranate Vodka, Stoli Blueberri Vodka, DeKuyper Pomegranate Liqueur and a splash of cranberry) that was quite tasty; I followed that with at Tang Martini (Grey Goose L’Orange, mango liqueur and splash of orange juice). OK, I know, I should have just stuck with vodka shots and laid off the "girly" drinks, but they just looked so good on the frozen bar!
Sad to say, I never had a chance to try their sushi ... but maybe next time!
Dish: cocktails
Meal: drinks
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 26 March 2008
Address: 308 N Euclid Ave., St Louis, MO 63108
Website: http://www.subzerovodkabar.com/
Il Radicchio (Arlington)
Il Radicchio
Many of the reviews of Il Radicchio are a little hard on them. It's a pretty tiny restaurant and service can sometimes be slow. Still, I've never had a bad meal here (for my favorite, see below).
I'm generally not a big fan of Italian restaurants since I cook Italian at home and a restaurant has to really do a good job to impress me. Il Radicchio fits that bill!
In addition to the Salsiccia e peppornatto, the other hits on the menu are the spaghetti and pizza. Spaghetti is served in a huge bowl (all you can eat) with a choice of various tomato and cream sauces (NOT all you can eat!). The pizzas are excellent, hand-thrown, thin crusts baked in a wood-fire oven. There are a number of "set" versions or you can build your own.
The restaurant can get a little noisy when full, and the sidewalk seating isn't very picturesque (parking lot and condos!); the interior has lovely trompe d'oeil paintings on the walls and horseshoes embedded in the floor!
There's a good wine selection, but the house chianti always seems to go well with anything!
Dish: Salsiccia e pepperonatta, roasted Italian pork sausages with roasted peppers and tomato sauce
Meal: dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 6 May 2008 (regular dining spot)
Address: 1801 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201
Website: N/A
Many of the reviews of Il Radicchio are a little hard on them. It's a pretty tiny restaurant and service can sometimes be slow. Still, I've never had a bad meal here (for my favorite, see below).
I'm generally not a big fan of Italian restaurants since I cook Italian at home and a restaurant has to really do a good job to impress me. Il Radicchio fits that bill!
In addition to the Salsiccia e peppornatto, the other hits on the menu are the spaghetti and pizza. Spaghetti is served in a huge bowl (all you can eat) with a choice of various tomato and cream sauces (NOT all you can eat!). The pizzas are excellent, hand-thrown, thin crusts baked in a wood-fire oven. There are a number of "set" versions or you can build your own.
The restaurant can get a little noisy when full, and the sidewalk seating isn't very picturesque (parking lot and condos!); the interior has lovely trompe d'oeil paintings on the walls and horseshoes embedded in the floor!
There's a good wine selection, but the house chianti always seems to go well with anything!
Dish: Salsiccia e pepperonatta, roasted Italian pork sausages with roasted peppers and tomato sauce
Meal: dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 6 May 2008 (regular dining spot)
Address: 1801 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201
Website: N/A
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
The Galloping Gourmet - St. Louis Style!
I like to think that the Washington area has some pretty good eating options, but after a couple of trips to St. Louis, mile for mile, bistro per capita, the Gateway to the West has some of the best eats around.
I'm not sure if my friends Chris and Doug are really typical St.Louians (spelling????), but if they are, it's not hard to see why St. Louis can support so many fine eating experiences.
Below are the places that I've had the chance to visit; I'll fill in with more details on all of them over time, but if you are visiting St. Louis, there's not a loser in the bunch. Right now, if I had to pick one, it would probaby be Koko (but maybe that's just because that's were I was last!).
I can't wait for my next trip and some more great eating!
Breakfast
Dinner
I'm not sure if my friends Chris and Doug are really typical St.Louians (spelling????), but if they are, it's not hard to see why St. Louis can support so many fine eating experiences.
Below are the places that I've had the chance to visit; I'll fill in with more details on all of them over time, but if you are visiting St. Louis, there's not a loser in the bunch. Right now, if I had to pick one, it would probaby be Koko (but maybe that's just because that's were I was last!).
I can't wait for my next trip and some more great eating!
Breakfast
- World's Fair Doughnuts
- LemonGrass Restaurant
- Sassafras: Missouri Botanical Garden: Restaurant
Dinner
- Terrene
- Koko
- Vin De Set Restaurant
- Scottish Arms
- 1111 Mississippi
Friday, March 14, 2008
Rijsttafel!
Indomania
Back home in Washington, DC, it's hard (impossible!) to find rijsttafel. I don't think I've had a good one since I was in The Hague many years ago!
Rijsttafel, is a sort of Indonesian/Dutch tapas. The "rice table" is delight to the eye and the palette. So, I was quite excited to find in Miami Beach, Indomania. Tucked into the ground floor of the Lorraine Hotel off of Collins Ave., 15 blocks or so from the hubbub of South Beach, Indomania offers a cozy dining room (hint: make reservations!), a playful pan-Asian ambiance and a friendly multi-culti staff (led by owners Ineke and Pieter Both), and fabulous food.
Our table of four started with an order of Fricadel jagung (corn cakes with chili/lime dipping sauce) which were excellent. For entrees, we opted to get one rijsttafel for two (the Rijsttafel Sumatra) and Oblok Oblok (friend tofu and tempeh). The Rijsttafel Sumatra was a smorgasboard (is that an oxymoron?) of fourteen tasty small dishes. Highlights were the Smoor djawa (slow cooked beef in kecap sauce); Rendang padang (beef stew in thick, spiced coconut sauce); Terong oseng (eggplant stew); and Sambal g bungcis (crispy, spiced green beans). The Krupuk udang (shrimp cracker) was very helpful in scooping up the rice!
For dessert, an order of friend bananas and ice cream was a perfect closing.
Indomania also featured a modest, but good wine list.
Meal: dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 7 March 2008
Address: 2601 Collins Ave, Miami, FL 33140
Website: http://www.indomaniarestaurant.com/
Back home in Washington, DC, it's hard (impossible!) to find rijsttafel. I don't think I've had a good one since I was in The Hague many years ago!
Rijsttafel, is a sort of Indonesian/Dutch tapas. The "rice table" is delight to the eye and the palette. So, I was quite excited to find in Miami Beach, Indomania. Tucked into the ground floor of the Lorraine Hotel off of Collins Ave., 15 blocks or so from the hubbub of South Beach, Indomania offers a cozy dining room (hint: make reservations!), a playful pan-Asian ambiance and a friendly multi-culti staff (led by owners Ineke and Pieter Both), and fabulous food.
Our table of four started with an order of Fricadel jagung (corn cakes with chili/lime dipping sauce) which were excellent. For entrees, we opted to get one rijsttafel for two (the Rijsttafel Sumatra) and Oblok Oblok (friend tofu and tempeh). The Rijsttafel Sumatra was a smorgasboard (is that an oxymoron?) of fourteen tasty small dishes. Highlights were the Smoor djawa (slow cooked beef in kecap sauce); Rendang padang (beef stew in thick, spiced coconut sauce); Terong oseng (eggplant stew); and Sambal g bungcis (crispy, spiced green beans). The Krupuk udang (shrimp cracker) was very helpful in scooping up the rice!
For dessert, an order of friend bananas and ice cream was a perfect closing.
Indomania also featured a modest, but good wine list.
Meal: dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 7 March 2008
Address: 2601 Collins Ave, Miami, FL 33140
Website: http://www.indomaniarestaurant.com/
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Creek 28, Miami Beach
Creek 28
I'm not usually a fan of hotel restaurant, but Creek 28 is more than your typical hotel restaurant. Tucked into the courtyard of the historic 1936 Indian Creek Hotel (well away from the noisy glamor of South Beach, Creek 28 offers a fabulous dining experience.
On my visit, our table had the Beef and Lamb Goulash, Moroccan Lamb and Chicken Tagine, and Grilled Sea Scallops. All the dishes were excellently prepared with just the right mix of flavors. The tagine was served with a side of Moroccan spice that made wasabi seem mild.
The extensive wine list will compliment any of your food selections. I'll also point out the frequently changing specialty drink menu. On my visit, a dining companion had the vodka, vanilla bean, and hibiscus flower drink that was highly praised!
Meal: dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 4 March 2008
Address: 2727 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Website: http://www.creek28.com/
I'm not usually a fan of hotel restaurant, but Creek 28 is more than your typical hotel restaurant. Tucked into the courtyard of the historic 1936 Indian Creek Hotel (well away from the noisy glamor of South Beach, Creek 28 offers a fabulous dining experience.
On my visit, our table had the Beef and Lamb Goulash, Moroccan Lamb and Chicken Tagine, and Grilled Sea Scallops. All the dishes were excellently prepared with just the right mix of flavors. The tagine was served with a side of Moroccan spice that made wasabi seem mild.
The extensive wine list will compliment any of your food selections. I'll also point out the frequently changing specialty drink menu. On my visit, a dining companion had the vodka, vanilla bean, and hibiscus flower drink that was highly praised!
Meal: dinner
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 4 March 2008
Address: 2727 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Website: http://www.creek28.com/
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Quote of the Day: 2 March 2008
"There's nothing on Badru but the spaceport .... There's Mikhail's Qwiksnak, a multilingual cafeteria in pink, purple, red, blue, green, and yellow neon (with missing letters) where you can get Galakt k Miks, Spudnik Fry, Krasnaya k la, and indigestion or worse. Nearby is Mikhail's Bistro where you can get a better class of indigestion."- Russell Hoban. (1996). Fremder. London: Bloomsbury, 2003. p. 2.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
ING Cafe, Philadelphia: Coffee and Cash!
ING Cafe
What an interesting concept. Financial services and coffee (and baked goods, etc.!). Would it just be a novelty? How long could it last?
I first ran across the ING Cafe a few years ago on a visit to Philadelphia. I had breakfast there and looked over the various ING brochures. The concept of the Internet only bank was still kind of new then and I was inspired to sign up for an account.
When I visited Philadelphia again in January 2008, I made sure to stop by the ING Cafe, but it wasn't open yet when I stopped by. Luckily, I had to make a return trip in February and this time it was open. Not only open, but they were having Sunday special and a coffee, tea, and two muffins were only $4.00! What a bargain!
ING Cafe brews up Peet's Coffee and has Internet access to check your ING accounts or for other purposes.
Additional locations in Chicago, New York City, Wilmington, and Los Angeles.
Meal: afternoon snack
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 24 February 2008
Address: 1636 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: http://home.ingdirect.com/about/about.asp?s=INGDIRECTCafe
What an interesting concept. Financial services and coffee (and baked goods, etc.!). Would it just be a novelty? How long could it last?
I first ran across the ING Cafe a few years ago on a visit to Philadelphia. I had breakfast there and looked over the various ING brochures. The concept of the Internet only bank was still kind of new then and I was inspired to sign up for an account.
When I visited Philadelphia again in January 2008, I made sure to stop by the ING Cafe, but it wasn't open yet when I stopped by. Luckily, I had to make a return trip in February and this time it was open. Not only open, but they were having Sunday special and a coffee, tea, and two muffins were only $4.00! What a bargain!
ING Cafe brews up Peet's Coffee and has Internet access to check your ING accounts or for other purposes.
Additional locations in Chicago, New York City, Wilmington, and Los Angeles.
Meal: afternoon snack
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 24 February 2008
Address: 1636 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: http://home.ingdirect.com/about/about.asp?s=INGDIRECTCafe
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Quote of the Day: 23 February 2008
"Mussels in Chocolate." You flinch? But that's only because you are gastronomically unadventurous. (Your Saturday evening visits to the Koh-i-Noor Balti House do not count. These days conveyor-belt curry is as safe a taste as Mozart.)
- James Hamilton-Paterson. (2004). Cooking with Fernet Branca. Europa Editions, New York: 2005. p.15
Looks like a bookstore ... but ...
No, it's not a bookstore, or even a library ... it's "Back to the Grind", a delightful little coffee house, breakfast nook, etc. in Riverside, California. Located in a historic niche in Riverside just around the corner from the Mission Inn, Back to the Grind has been around since 1996.
I stopped in for breakfast a couple of times during a trip to Riverside and it was always great. The library ambiance was conducive to reading and it was a great place for coffee, a danish and a bit of relaxation before starting the day.
Look closely at the bookcases in the picture and you'll find a host of curious little knickknacks and doodads!
Meal: breakfast
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 23 July 2007
Address: 3575 University Ave., Riverside, CA 92501
Website: http://back2thegrind.com/
I stopped in for breakfast a couple of times during a trip to Riverside and it was always great. The library ambiance was conducive to reading and it was a great place for coffee, a danish and a bit of relaxation before starting the day.
Look closely at the bookcases in the picture and you'll find a host of curious little knickknacks and doodads!
Meal: breakfast
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 23 July 2007
Address: 3575 University Ave., Riverside, CA 92501
Website: http://back2thegrind.com/
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Pie in the Sky: Woods Hole, Mass.
One word: sea ice. Ok, that's two words, but it will give you an idea of how cold it can get in Woods Hole in February. I was there in mid-February 2007 and had a great time. Yes it was cold, but there sure weren't any crowds!
It's also true that there's not a lot open at that time of the year, but one year 'round option is Pie in the Sky. Just a quick, brisk stroll down from the Swope Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory, past Eel Pond and there you are.
The Pie in the Sky opens early and also has free Internet access for the online road warriors.
Great staff and coffee and killer baked goods will start your day off right - and they're open til 10 pm, so also a great place to end your day!
Meal: breakfast/snack
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 11 February 2007
Address: 10 Water St., Woods Hole, MA 02543
Website: http://www.woodshole.com/pie/
It's also true that there's not a lot open at that time of the year, but one year 'round option is Pie in the Sky. Just a quick, brisk stroll down from the Swope Center of the Marine Biological Laboratory, past Eel Pond and there you are.
The Pie in the Sky opens early and also has free Internet access for the online road warriors.
Great staff and coffee and killer baked goods will start your day off right - and they're open til 10 pm, so also a great place to end your day!
Meal: breakfast/snack
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 11 February 2007
Address: 10 Water St., Woods Hole, MA 02543
Website: http://www.woodshole.com/pie/
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Quote of the Day: 17 February 2008
"Caviar is sometimes eaten by chess players as a way of rapidly consuming a considerable quantity of easily digestible protein, without any of the stupefying effects of a bona fide meal. It is an excellent cold weather food. It is not available on cross-channel ferries such as this one, though in many respects it would be an ideal mid-journey picnic. There is, however, a deliriously vulgar 'caviar bar' at Heathrow Terminal Four, just to the right of the miniature Harrods."- John Lancaster. The Debt to Pleasure. Henry Holt and Company: New York, 1996, p. 13
Monday, February 11, 2008
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: St. Louis
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
Look in the sky! Is it Ice cream? Is it frozen yogurt? No, it's frozen custard! Not really soft serve ice cream, but something all it's own!
On a not really too cool fall night, we drove out to the iconic Ted Drewes location on Chippewa St. in St. Louis (on the old US 66 route none the less).
The stand (no indoor seating!) was packed with people milling about and waiting to place their order. I'm sort of a plain vanilla person, so that's what I ordered. True to form, my custard arrived thick and creamy, upside down with s spoon stuck inside to let everyone know just how thick and creamy it was.
A perfect bit of nostalgia that's great for summer days, but oh oh, those summer nights!
Meal: after dinner snacks
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 13 September 2007
Address: 6726 Chippewa, St. Louis, MO 63109
Website: http://www.teddrewes.com
Look in the sky! Is it Ice cream? Is it frozen yogurt? No, it's frozen custard! Not really soft serve ice cream, but something all it's own!
On a not really too cool fall night, we drove out to the iconic Ted Drewes location on Chippewa St. in St. Louis (on the old US 66 route none the less).
The stand (no indoor seating!) was packed with people milling about and waiting to place their order. I'm sort of a plain vanilla person, so that's what I ordered. True to form, my custard arrived thick and creamy, upside down with s spoon stuck inside to let everyone know just how thick and creamy it was.
A perfect bit of nostalgia that's great for summer days, but oh oh, those summer nights!
Meal: after dinner snacks
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 13 September 2007
Address: 6726 Chippewa, St. Louis, MO 63109
Website: http://www.teddrewes.com
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Grove Cafe on Chestnut St. San Francisco
The Grove Cafe is one of the nicest little places on Chestnut St. (which has quite a few actually!) to get a little something at nearly anytime during the day. On my recent trip to San Francisco, I stopped in for breakfast on a couple of occasions. On other trips, it's just been a stop off for coffee or a little something after dinner.
Service has always been friendly and helpful (including making my custom scrambled eggs seen in the picture). The thick grilled toast is also great.
It's also a great people watching place as the SF laptop crowd conducts all kinds of business at all times of day.
A breakfast highlight is the funky orange juicer that squeezes your juice while you wait.
Meal: breakfast/after dinner snacks
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 16 January 2008
Address: 2250 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA 94123
Website: N/A
Menu: http://tinyurl.com/2ue97d
Service has always been friendly and helpful (including making my custom scrambled eggs seen in the picture). The thick grilled toast is also great.
It's also a great people watching place as the SF laptop crowd conducts all kinds of business at all times of day.
A breakfast highlight is the funky orange juicer that squeezes your juice while you wait.
Meal: breakfast/after dinner snacks
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 16 January 2008
Address: 2250 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA 94123
Website: N/A
Menu: http://tinyurl.com/2ue97d
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Joe Aguilar's Templo Del Sol: Authentic Mexican
Templo del Sol is one of those Mexican restaurants that's just plain comfortable. Located near the UC Riverside campus, you don't come to Templo del Sol for fancy tables or trendy lighting tricks.
Seating is your basic laminated tables and pull out chairs, but what you lack a hip atmosphere, is made up in great service (some reviews have noted that the service is slow, but I was there with a party of eight and the service was quick, efficient and cheerful) and even better food.
All the traditional dishes are here: enchiladas, tacos, burritos (including their deep fried burrito - or chimichunga as they're often called "back East"), and the like. Dishes come in combos or a la carte in generous portions. My dish of choice? The polle en mole, with just the right amount of chicken and accompanied by rice and beans.
Prices are low and the food is great! So next time you find yourself in the Inland Empire, stop by!
Meal: lunch
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 24 July 2007
Address: 1365 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92507
Website: N/A
Seating is your basic laminated tables and pull out chairs, but what you lack a hip atmosphere, is made up in great service (some reviews have noted that the service is slow, but I was there with a party of eight and the service was quick, efficient and cheerful) and even better food.
All the traditional dishes are here: enchiladas, tacos, burritos (including their deep fried burrito - or chimichunga as they're often called "back East"), and the like. Dishes come in combos or a la carte in generous portions. My dish of choice? The polle en mole, with just the right amount of chicken and accompanied by rice and beans.
Prices are low and the food is great! So next time you find yourself in the Inland Empire, stop by!
Meal: lunch
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 24 July 2007
Address: 1365 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92507
Website: N/A
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Savory Metro - Coffee and more in Takoma
Sister location to the original Savory Cafe located just across the DC-Maryland line in Takoma Park.
Savory Metro is the perfect spot to stop for coffee, tea, or something more filling - eggs, baked goods, etc. on your way to or from the Takoma Metro stop.
I'm a tough sell when it comes to coffee. I like what I like and am especially hard on "neighborhood" coffee houses that try and pass off weak, cold coffee as an "alternative" to Starbucks. Savory Metro passes my test with a good cup of basic joe - nothing fancy for me - and they didn't look at me funny when I wanted my "here" coffee in a "to go" cup!
Internet access, bulletin boards with the types of postings you find only in the Takoma/Takoma Park area (or maybe Berkeley!). A great little neighborhood spot!
Meal: coffee
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 30 January 2008
Address: 314 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC 20012
Website: N/A
Savory Metro is the perfect spot to stop for coffee, tea, or something more filling - eggs, baked goods, etc. on your way to or from the Takoma Metro stop.
I'm a tough sell when it comes to coffee. I like what I like and am especially hard on "neighborhood" coffee houses that try and pass off weak, cold coffee as an "alternative" to Starbucks. Savory Metro passes my test with a good cup of basic joe - nothing fancy for me - and they didn't look at me funny when I wanted my "here" coffee in a "to go" cup!
Internet access, bulletin boards with the types of postings you find only in the Takoma/Takoma Park area (or maybe Berkeley!). A great little neighborhood spot!
Meal: coffee
Rating: ***** of 5
Date: 30 January 2008
Address: 314 Carroll St NW, Washington, DC 20012
Website: N/A
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Las Campanas Restaurant @ The Mission Inn
Las Campanas Restaurant, located in the historic Mission Inn in Riverside, California, offers a great dining experience.
Part of the pleasure of Las Campanas is dining outdoors under the palms of the Mission Inn. If you're lucky and you get one of the clear and dry Southern California nights, you'll be especially happy while enjoying the excellent meal.
The chips, served with a trio of salsas, were crisp and not too salty.
For an entree, I chose my favorite, chicken enchiladas. Served with sides of refried beans and rice, a glass of California Pinot Noir made for the perfect meal.
Meal: dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 22 July 2007
Address: 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, CA 92501
Website: http://www.missioninn.com/restaurants-las-campanas.php
Part of the pleasure of Las Campanas is dining outdoors under the palms of the Mission Inn. If you're lucky and you get one of the clear and dry Southern California nights, you'll be especially happy while enjoying the excellent meal.
The chips, served with a trio of salsas, were crisp and not too salty.
For an entree, I chose my favorite, chicken enchiladas. Served with sides of refried beans and rice, a glass of California Pinot Noir made for the perfect meal.
Meal: dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 22 July 2007
Address: 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, CA 92501
Website: http://www.missioninn.com/restaurants-las-campanas.php
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Red Square Euro Bistro: A little bit of Moscow in Denver
Tucked away on Larimer St. the Red Square Euro Bisto is everything a Soviet ere restaurant wasn't! Great food in good quantities and a fun, lively atmosphere.
For starters, I had Schi, the classic Russian Soup made with cabbage, carrots, potatoes, red peppers, beef bouillon, and sour cream. For an entree, Grilled Rack of Lamb (served with sautéed baby zucchini, roasted shallots, orange-fennel reduction).
The staff was knowledgeable and well-versed in the menu. Most importantly, our water was able to guide us through the selection of vodkas on the menu. Our choice: Prazdnichnaya.
Meal: dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 5 Oct 2007
Address: 1512 Larimer St # 38R, Denver, CO 80202
Website: http://www.redsquarebistro.com/
For starters, I had Schi, the classic Russian Soup made with cabbage, carrots, potatoes, red peppers, beef bouillon, and sour cream. For an entree, Grilled Rack of Lamb (served with sautéed baby zucchini, roasted shallots, orange-fennel reduction).
The staff was knowledgeable and well-versed in the menu. Most importantly, our water was able to guide us through the selection of vodkas on the menu. Our choice: Prazdnichnaya.
Meal: dinner
Rating: **** of 5
Date: 5 Oct 2007
Address: 1512 Larimer St # 38R, Denver, CO 80202
Website: http://www.redsquarebistro.com/
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