With the first hint of fall in the air, I thought it would be a good time to send UDC641 on a bit of a hiatus. I'll say hiatus instead of retirement because, I don't want to set up false expectations for a permanent fading away only (like Sinatra and Streisand) to return again, and again (did someone say The Who's Farewell Tour?)
So, it's been fun, and as the dolphins say, thanks for all the fish (and Indian food, and pork, and chicken, and and and ...)
UDC641 has left the kitchen ... bon appetit!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Sou' Wester Restaurant and Gift Shop
At such a beautiful spot as Peggy's Cove, one shouldn't expect too much by way of food. Especially a place that bills itself as both a restaurant AND a gift shop. But here at the Sou' Wester, the actually had a quite nice menu.
I gravitated to the Haddock Burger (though there were a number of other items that also caught my fancy. And a good choice it was. I also opted out of the fries (or, that other popular Nova Scotian dish, sweet potato fries) in favor of a really good (and by good I mean wet and creamy) cole slaw.
Good food, great view.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 21 August 2010
Rating: *** 1/2
Address: 178 Peggy's Point Road, Peggy's Cove, NS. B3Z 3S2
Website: http://www.peggys-cove.com/
Saturday, August 28, 2010
The Fire Side in Halifax
I'd been looking forward to this spot on word of mouth reports. I had high expectations, which might have made me expect a bit too much.
My party sat upstairs, which had great outside lighting (it looked dark on the lower level and since it was nice out and still early, we wanted to catch some Nova Scotian rays!). There was also seating outside, but it was a bit chilly for that not that there weren't some diners out there).
I went with the Mediterranean lamb burger (ground lamb and pork seasoned with cumin, mint, coriander, dill, oregano. Grilled, topped with feta arugula, olives and sun-dried tomatoes; served with fries, but I added the side Caeasar salad for a small charge).
The burger was quite good, but the overall experience was lacking some zing.
By the way, no reservations.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 22 August 2010
Rating: *** 1/2
Address: 1500 Brunswick Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: http://www.thefireside.ca/
Friday, August 27, 2010
Gazebo Cafe
After an hour drive from Halifax to our waterside resort, we needed a quick little lunch. Not wanting to eat at one of the resort properties quite yet, we took the fifteen minute drive to the picturesque town of Mahone Bay. At the visitors' center, they recommended a spot just down the street. Sadly, it was out of business, but nearby was the Gazebo Cafe. It was a bit tricky getting a table for nine, but after a short wait, we were able to get a table.
I wasn't that hungry, so I passed on the tasty looking mussels and seafood chowder. Not being a fan of crustaceans (as loyal readers know), I also passed on the lobster roll. Others in my party had all of the previous and came back with great review.
I, however, went with the BLT sandwich. Not bad, but served rather plain (no chips, fries, salad or even a pickle).
So, rating on the BLT, it's a bit low, so I recommend sticking with the seafood options.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 17 August 2010
Rating: ***
Address: South Main Street, Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, B0J 2E0, Canada
Website: N/A
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Minato Sushi Japanese Restaurant
Minato Sushi Japanese Restaurant
Wandering around Halifax, we saw a number of sushi spots. But which one? Being near the sea, I was looking for some good sushi, so how to tell? In this case, we got lucky and were overheard discussing options in the lobby of the hotel. One of the staff quickly opined that Minato's was the best spot in Halifax.
So off we went.
On walking in, I spotted the server carrying a big bowl of kimchi! Hmmm. Interesting. On sitting down and seeing the menu, not only was kimich offered, but a wide variety of Korean dishes. Turns out the owner was Korean. So, in addition to some edamame and sushi selections as appetizers, I had the Korean beef and an extra order of kimchi.
The beef (pulkogi, bulgogi, pick your spelling!) was excellent and the kimchi just right. The sushi was also fresh and well prepared.
Highly recommended.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 14 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 1520 Queen Street, Halifax, NS, Canada
Website: http://www.minatosushi.ca/
Wandering around Halifax, we saw a number of sushi spots. But which one? Being near the sea, I was looking for some good sushi, so how to tell? In this case, we got lucky and were overheard discussing options in the lobby of the hotel. One of the staff quickly opined that Minato's was the best spot in Halifax.
So off we went.
On walking in, I spotted the server carrying a big bowl of kimchi! Hmmm. Interesting. On sitting down and seeing the menu, not only was kimich offered, but a wide variety of Korean dishes. Turns out the owner was Korean. So, in addition to some edamame and sushi selections as appetizers, I had the Korean beef and an extra order of kimchi.
The beef (pulkogi, bulgogi, pick your spelling!) was excellent and the kimchi just right. The sushi was also fresh and well prepared.
Highly recommended.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 14 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 1520 Queen Street, Halifax, NS, Canada
Website: http://www.minatosushi.ca/
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
As You Like It, or, What You Will
As You Like It
Sometimes you just want a good, quick, deli sandwich. Heading out on the streets of Halifax, there it was, "As You Like It".
Did I like it? Yup. I got the chicken salad sandwich on whole wheat. Served with a cranberry dressing (interesting touch), I added a package of poutine flavored chips.
Fast service and probably a popular lunch spot for office workers.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 16 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 1660 Hollis St Halifax, NS , B3J1V7
Website: N/A
Sometimes you just want a good, quick, deli sandwich. Heading out on the streets of Halifax, there it was, "As You Like It".
Did I like it? Yup. I got the chicken salad sandwich on whole wheat. Served with a cranberry dressing (interesting touch), I added a package of poutine flavored chips.
Fast service and probably a popular lunch spot for office workers.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 16 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 1660 Hollis St Halifax, NS , B3J1V7
Website: N/A
Salt Shaker Deli: Shake a tail feather down to ...
Salt Shaker Deli: Shake a tail feather down to ...
One needs to always be a bit wary when in tourist spots, you never know quite what to expect. So, when we stopped in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Lunenbert (Nova Scotia) I wasn't certain what would come up on the meal-0-matic. Stopping in one of the
souvenir shops, we were pointed in the direction of the Salt Shaker Deli.
A few minutes walk brought us there and luckily, there was a table for seven available!
Well, in looking over the menu, there were local Indian Point mussels, so I had to have some. Especially when saw there was a special, "Pint and a Pound" - pint of draft beer and a pound of mussels. The only trouble was there were so many options:
A feew days later, on a boat cruise, I got to see the mussel beds in Mahone Bay:
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 18 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 124 Montague Street, Lunenburg, NS B0J 2C0
Website: http://www.saltshakerdeli.com/
souvenir shops, we were pointed in the direction of the Salt Shaker Deli.
A few minutes walk brought us there and luckily, there was a table for seven available!
Well, in looking over the menu, there were local Indian Point mussels, so I had to have some. Especially when saw there was a special, "Pint and a Pound" - pint of draft beer and a pound of mussels. The only trouble was there were so many options:
- Provenqal
- Steamed in White Wine
- Propeller Honey Wheat Beer
- Propeller Porter Beer
- Roasted Garlic & Cream
- Thai Coconut Curry
- Spicy Tomato & Harissa
- Portugese Style with Sausage
- Creamy Madras Curry
A feew days later, on a boat cruise, I got to see the mussel beds in Mahone Bay:
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 18 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 124 Montague Street, Lunenburg, NS B0J 2C0
Website: http://www.saltshakerdeli.com/
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Not Today: King of Donair
I was so sad passing pizza corner this, my last night in Halifax. I never had a chance to try a donair at K.O.D. - King of Donair.
I had wanted to try the classic donair at midnight, but my scheduled never worked out ... so ...
Not today, but someday!
I had wanted to try the classic donair at midnight, but my scheduled never worked out ... so ...
Not today, but someday!
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Steve-o-Reno's
Located on a little side street, Steve-o-Reno's is a perfect little spot for coffee or a quick bite.
I stopped in for a late lunch and didn't really want too much. Nice and comfortable decor, wifi, and helpful, friendly staff.
The main item on the menu is the "Egg-o-reno", a nice take on the basic "Eggwich". I got mine with veggies, cheese, and a bit of ham. Very tasty!
I didn't get a coffee, but reports from friends say that it was excellent.
Be aware, Steve-o-Reno's is cash only!
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 15 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 1536 Brunswick St, Halifax, NS, B3J 2G2
Website: N/A
Java Factory
They roast their own coffee. What else do we need to say?
Locally roasted coffee always has a bit of an edge in the race for the perfect cup. I didn't get a chance to stay long at the Java Factory (passing by on a walk around Halifax), but the smell of roasting coffee drew me in.
Located in the Pier 21 area of museums, cruise ship docks, and beer breweries, it has a great location.
I didn't get a chance to try the foods, but the pasties and other offerings looked good.
And the coffee? Excellent!
Meal: Coffee
Date Visited: 17 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 1113 Marginal Rd., Halifax, NS B3H 4P7
Website: http://www.javafactorycoffee.com/
The Old Triangle Irish Ale House
The Old Triangle Irish Ale House
When I looked online and saw such fare as "Aer Wingus" and "Blarney Stone Crabs" I had a feeling I was in for an authentic faux Irish pub experience. Though the decor went for the pub look, the food was a typical North American take on "Irish" with a extras thrown in.
Our group got two starters, the Sweet Potato Fries (served with a curry mayo sauce and some Poutine (see my first poutine experience in Vancouver). Here, the poutine had the basic fries topped with ground beef, caramelized onions, gravy, melted cheese, and the addition of a summer savoury stuffing.
For an main course, I went with the official (it seems to me) fish of Halifax, the Pan-Fried Haddock, served with coleslaw, a side salad and the highlight of the meal, a special zingy tartar sauce.
Our table had a problem with one order (wrong dish brought out) and some dishes were like more than others. Overall, an adequate meal.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 16 August 2010
Rating: ** 1/2
Address: 5136 Prince Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 1L4, Canada
Website: http://www.oldtriangle.com/home.php?site_id=1
When I looked online and saw such fare as "Aer Wingus" and "Blarney Stone Crabs" I had a feeling I was in for an authentic faux Irish pub experience. Though the decor went for the pub look, the food was a typical North American take on "Irish" with a extras thrown in.
Our group got two starters, the Sweet Potato Fries (served with a curry mayo sauce and some Poutine (see my first poutine experience in Vancouver). Here, the poutine had the basic fries topped with ground beef, caramelized onions, gravy, melted cheese, and the addition of a summer savoury stuffing.
For an main course, I went with the official (it seems to me) fish of Halifax, the Pan-Fried Haddock, served with coleslaw, a side salad and the highlight of the meal, a special zingy tartar sauce.
Our table had a problem with one order (wrong dish brought out) and some dishes were like more than others. Overall, an adequate meal.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 16 August 2010
Rating: ** 1/2
Address: 5136 Prince Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 1L4, Canada
Website: http://www.oldtriangle.com/home.php?site_id=1
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Wired Monk
Wired Monk
The Wired Monk looked interesting from the outside and had a nice homey feel inside. Though it seemed like a "local" kinda place, it is part of a chain with a number of locations in Nova Scotia (not that there's anything wrong with chains!).
The selection of morning baked goods was fine and the coffee tasty. Service was prompt and friendly.
Located on a corner with a construction site next door, it was a bit noisy, but that shall pass.
Meal: Breakfast
Date Visited: 16 August 2010
Rating: **
Address: 5147 Morris Street, Halifax, NS
Website: http://www.wiredmonk.com/stores.asp?ID=12
The Wired Monk looked interesting from the outside and had a nice homey feel inside. Though it seemed like a "local" kinda place, it is part of a chain with a number of locations in Nova Scotia (not that there's anything wrong with chains!).
The selection of morning baked goods was fine and the coffee tasty. Service was prompt and friendly.
Located on a corner with a construction site next door, it was a bit noisy, but that shall pass.
Meal: Breakfast
Date Visited: 16 August 2010
Rating: **
Address: 5147 Morris Street, Halifax, NS
Website: http://www.wiredmonk.com/stores.asp?ID=12
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Cabin Coffee, Halifax
- Coffee house vibe, check.
- Laid back, slightly spacey service, check.
- Big comfy chairs and couches, check.
- Whacky decor, check.
- Incredible baked goods, check.
As noted above, the baked goods were tasty (if a bit adventerous - the cinnamon roll was an interesting failure), the muffins and scones were outstanding.
Highly recommended.
Meal: Snack/Breakfast/Lunch
Date Visisted: 13-17 August 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 1554 Hollis St., Halifax, NS B3J 1V3, Canada
Website: N/A
Monday, August 16, 2010
Not Today: Beaver Tails
This post introduces a new feature: Not Today.
Not Today will be posts about places that I didn't eat and probably will never go to (or food dishes that will be permanent pass bys).
To kick off Not Today, we have "Beaver Tails". Not sure how pervasive this dish (?) is in Canada, but basically, it's a big flat piece of fried dough (roughly shaped like a "beaver tail") and covered in gooey sweet stuff of your choice.
Did I want a beaver tail? Not today!
Seen in: Haliifax
Date: 14 August 2010
Some other day probability: 1 out of 100
Not Today will be posts about places that I didn't eat and probably will never go to (or food dishes that will be permanent pass bys).
To kick off Not Today, we have "Beaver Tails". Not sure how pervasive this dish (?) is in Canada, but basically, it's a big flat piece of fried dough (roughly shaped like a "beaver tail") and covered in gooey sweet stuff of your choice.
Did I want a beaver tail? Not today!
Seen in: Haliifax
Date: 14 August 2010
Some other day probability: 1 out of 100
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Dofsky's does mussels
Dofsky's Urban Grill
Off to Halifax for a family wedding and when in the Maritimes, one must have mussels!
The rehearsal dinner was at Dofsky's, a nice comfortable spot which offered three different styles of mussels. I went with the "home" version, which was white wine, tarragon, and a touch of cream. An interesting blend, but not sure if I liked the cream. Still, quite tasty and a nice large serving (appetizer on the menu, but made for a full meal). I added a Caesar salad to compliment the ebony mollusks.
Of note was the selection of Nova Scotian wines. I'd never had one before. At dinner, there were two options, a red and a white. I went with the Marechal Foch which was quite good.
(sorry no mussels pictures ... they were too dark!)
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 13 August 2010
Rating: *** 1/2
Address: 1583 Brunswick Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J3P5, Canada
Website: http://www.dofskysgrill.com/
Off to Halifax for a family wedding and when in the Maritimes, one must have mussels!
The rehearsal dinner was at Dofsky's, a nice comfortable spot which offered three different styles of mussels. I went with the "home" version, which was white wine, tarragon, and a touch of cream. An interesting blend, but not sure if I liked the cream. Still, quite tasty and a nice large serving (appetizer on the menu, but made for a full meal). I added a Caesar salad to compliment the ebony mollusks.
Of note was the selection of Nova Scotian wines. I'd never had one before. At dinner, there were two options, a red and a white. I went with the Marechal Foch which was quite good.
(sorry no mussels pictures ... they were too dark!)
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 13 August 2010
Rating: *** 1/2
Address: 1583 Brunswick Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J3P5, Canada
Website: http://www.dofskysgrill.com/
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Salty's, a savory taste of Halifax
Salty's
One couldn't ask for a nicer spot and day. Right on the waterfront at the Halifax boardwalk and a beautiful, clear and sunny day.
We had an outside table with a water view and stayed mostly with a seafood meal for lunch.
I went with the fish and chips (not something I usually get, so it would be a change). Haddock seems to be THE fish here in Halifax and that's what they were battering up at Salty's. The batter was nicely textured and the chips nice and crispy.
The fish and chips were served with tartar sauce, but was brought malt vinegar on request.
The other entries at the table, maple salmon, tuna sandwich, seafood chowder, all received good reviews.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 14 August 2010
Rating: *** 1/2
Address: 1869 Upper Water Street, Halifax, NS B3J 1S9, Canada
Website: http://www.saltys.ca/
One couldn't ask for a nicer spot and day. Right on the waterfront at the Halifax boardwalk and a beautiful, clear and sunny day.
We had an outside table with a water view and stayed mostly with a seafood meal for lunch.
I went with the fish and chips (not something I usually get, so it would be a change). Haddock seems to be THE fish here in Halifax and that's what they were battering up at Salty's. The batter was nicely textured and the chips nice and crispy.
The fish and chips were served with tartar sauce, but was brought malt vinegar on request.
The other entries at the table, maple salmon, tuna sandwich, seafood chowder, all received good reviews.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 14 August 2010
Rating: *** 1/2
Address: 1869 Upper Water Street, Halifax, NS B3J 1S9, Canada
Website: http://www.saltys.ca/
Friday, August 13, 2010
United 7644: IAD to YHZ, a Haiku
United 7644: IAD to YHZ, a Haiku
Well, what can you be written about a plastic cup of Mott's Tomato juice that hasn't been said a thousand time before by quills magnitudes sharper than mine?
And so, I won't try ... but wait, no, just a short haiku:
Mott's Tomato Juice.
In cup, with ice, plastic cup.
The can? Ah, on cart.
Meal: Beverage
Date Visited: 13 August 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the air
Website: http://www.united.com
Well, what can you be written about a plastic cup of Mott's Tomato juice that hasn't been said a thousand time before by quills magnitudes sharper than mine?
And so, I won't try ... but wait, no, just a short haiku:
Mott's Tomato Juice.
In cup, with ice, plastic cup.
The can? Ah, on cart.
Meal: Beverage
Date Visited: 13 August 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the air
Website: http://www.united.com
Saturday, August 7, 2010
R.I.P.: D'Acqua
R.I.P.: D'Acqua
D'Acqua had a great, if cursed location. This address on Pennsylvania Ave. has been the site of a number of restaurants over the years, but none seem to really stick.
With an Italian cuisine, it would seem a natural power lunch hit. But I'm afraid I never saw it full.
My one lunch there was alright, but not great. I had mussels in a tomotoe sauce - always a mistake, just too messy to really enjoy. The bread was really good though!
Meal: Lunch
Rating: N/A
Date Closed: 3 November 2009
Address: 801 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Website: N/A
Friday, August 6, 2010
R.I.P.: Bluepoint
R.I.P.: Bluepoint
On the site of the former location of John Harvard's, Bluepoint seemed to have a lot going for it. But it just never seemed to get going.
Went there for happy hour a number of times and there was always a good crowd. Nice filet sliders and drinks priced to go.
But the dining room never seemed to get a crowd (or even close to full). Generally, service was good and the food ok (a pecan crusted tilapia was good).
This is a great location, but it needs something to match that.
Meal: Drinks/Lunch/Dinner
Rating: N/A
Date Closed: Early 2010?
Address: 1299 Pensylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Website: N/A
On the site of the former location of John Harvard's, Bluepoint seemed to have a lot going for it. But it just never seemed to get going.
Went there for happy hour a number of times and there was always a good crowd. Nice filet sliders and drinks priced to go.
But the dining room never seemed to get a crowd (or even close to full). Generally, service was good and the food ok (a pecan crusted tilapia was good).
This is a great location, but it needs something to match that.
Meal: Drinks/Lunch/Dinner
Rating: N/A
Date Closed: Early 2010?
Address: 1299 Pensylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Website: N/A
Monday, July 26, 2010
Go, Go Fish!
Go Fish Ocean Emporium
As you can see by the picture, this really is just a shack by the water. There are some seats (some even under the only slightly dripping cover). But you're not coming for the ambience, you're coming for some of the tastiest food in Vancouver (and that's saying a lot for this foodie heaven).
I went with the salmon tacones (taco cones, get it?) with slaw. Simply one of the best prepared salmon I've ever had.
A colleague comments, and I agree:
Date Visited: 10 November 2009
Rating: *****
Address: 1505 W 1st Ave., Vancouver, BC V6J 1E8
Website: N/A
As you can see by the picture, this really is just a shack by the water. There are some seats (some even under the only slightly dripping cover). But you're not coming for the ambience, you're coming for some of the tastiest food in Vancouver (and that's saying a lot for this foodie heaven).
I went with the salmon tacones (taco cones, get it?) with slaw. Simply one of the best prepared salmon I've ever had.
A colleague comments, and I agree:
Literally a seaside fish shack. Food usually comes off the neighboring dock and onto your plate. Great fish and chips, sandwiches, soups/chowders, specials. Go early.You gotta eat outside or huddle in your car, but totally worth it.Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 10 November 2009
Rating: *****
Address: 1505 W 1st Ave., Vancouver, BC V6J 1E8
Website: N/A
Friday, June 18, 2010
Galloping Gourmet: Vienna, Austria
Attending a series of intense, morning to evening meetings is not the best way to enjoy the culinary treats of Vienna. All but one of my dinners was under the constrained circumstance of having to seat 15-20 people. The one dinner outside the group environment, was fabulous.
I also didn't get to take full advantage of the coffee house culture, only making it to three different ones (breakfast, lunch, drinks). I was able to hit one of the prime tourist spots, the Cafe Sacher and indulge in the famed torte.
Here's a rundown of my eating adventures in Vienna:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert/Drinks
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
United 870: SYD to SFO
United 870: SYD to SFO
Dinner on the flight, served just out of Sydney, was a choice of chicken or pasta. I went with the chicken. It was alright, a little on the greasy side, served with a side of roasted potatoes (good) and carrots and green beans. A side salad with Italian dressing plus a roll topped off the savoury side of the meal. Dessert was a bit too dense bit of chocolate cake. A nice touch was a complimentary wine (I selected the Redwood Creek Cabernet Sauvignon).
For breakfast, well, I seemed to have slept through it; there was a cookie, pretzels and a little sandwich on my tray, so either that was the simple handout or there were airline fairies at work, we'll never know.
Meal: Dinner/Breakfast
Date Visited: 7 June 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the Air
Website: N/A
Dinner on the flight, served just out of Sydney, was a choice of chicken or pasta. I went with the chicken. It was alright, a little on the greasy side, served with a side of roasted potatoes (good) and carrots and green beans. A side salad with Italian dressing plus a roll topped off the savoury side of the meal. Dessert was a bit too dense bit of chocolate cake. A nice touch was a complimentary wine (I selected the Redwood Creek Cabernet Sauvignon).
For breakfast, well, I seemed to have slept through it; there was a cookie, pretzels and a little sandwich on my tray, so either that was the simple handout or there were airline fairies at work, we'll never know.
Meal: Dinner/Breakfast
Date Visited: 7 June 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the Air
Website: N/A
Monday, June 14, 2010
United 840: MEL to SYD
United 840: MEL to SYD
Well, back on a US carrier for a short hall, relatively, beverage and peanuts. Qantas, you spoiled me!
Meal: Snack
Date Visited: 7 June 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the Air
Website: N/A
Well, back on a US carrier for a short hall, relatively, beverage and peanuts. Qantas, you spoiled me!
Meal: Snack
Date Visited: 7 June 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the Air
Website: N/A
A Jewel in Canberra, The Jewel of India
I wasn't expecting much from the culinary options for Canberra, my first dinner was very good, so when my colleagues suggested Indian on the second night, I felt on I was on a positive roll.
And I wasn't disappointed. The Jewel of India was among the best Indian food I've had. Our group agreed on the banquet options. This included poppadom, appetizers (tandoori chicken and samosa), a basket of naan, and four entrees (Aloo palak, Beef madras, Lamb rogan josh, and chicken korma). All the selections were fabulous. The beef madras, if I had to pick one, would be my favorite (perhaps since I don't have it very often).
There was also dessert (the obligatory golum jabba (I'm never cared for that dish, so I didn't even try it) and a mango ice cream that was very good (but took a while to soften up).
Staff were attentive and the decor quite nice. Highly recommended.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 4 June 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 11 Bougainville St., Griffith, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2603
Website: http://www.jewelofindia.com.au
Sunday, June 13, 2010
A Smart Bar menu indeed! Cutler & Co. Dining Room & Bar
My colleague from the University of Melbourned recommended Cutler & Co. if I wanted some "smart" bar food instead of a full dinner. That sounded both good and intriguing and it was also on the way back to my hotel.
The ambiance was cool hip with lots of black and chrome and spot lightinng. The host quickly met me at the door and was pleasant and happy for my request for a single table near the bar. Looking over the menu, it was indeed a smart menu with too many tempting choices. I had gone in with the idea of a single appetizer, but everything looked so good, I had to have two.
I created my own "surf and turf" with a selection of three South Australian Kumoto oysters (figured June is really December and hence has a "r" in it), and Wagyu beef ribs. I accompanied it with a Hoddles Creek Pinot Noir.
Service was quick and attentive. The food was amazing. The oysters were strong, and served on a mound of salt (a nice touch); I missed a bit of horseradish with them, but made do with a squeeze of lemon. The ribs were tender and sauced just right.
Highly recommended.
Meal: Light Dinner
Date Visited: 5 June 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 55-57 Gertrude St., Melbourne, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Website: http://www.cutlerandco.com.au
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Wig and Pen: Drinking in a political pub
We had two days of very good meeting in Canberra, and so, before some of our group headed back to other parts of Australia, we went out to the highly recommended (well, actually, the only recommended) pub in Canberra. It was a Friday night, so it was packed. Unable to get seats, we hovered around on wall and bar area. Wig and Pen is a brew pub, and we sampled some of the local brews. The best was Venom, a strongly hoppy beer (the way I like it). Likely a nice place to relax when it was less crowded, it was also family friendly with a number of children in the bar area.
So, I'll join in with my Melbourne colleagues and give the Wig and Pen two thumbs up.
Meal: Drinks
Date Visited: 4 June 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 53 Alinga St., Canberra City, Australian Capital Territory 2601
Website: http://www.wigandpen.com.au
Friday, June 11, 2010
Pork Barrel: Better than an earmark
After a meeting at the National Library of Australia (NLA), our hosts suggested that we head for lunch just across the way at the Pork Barrel (as a resident of the Washington, DC area, I could appreciate the capital city humor in that).
Now in DC, I would have expected some BBQ, but the Pork Barrel was a pizza place (noted by one of the NAL staff as "the best pizza in Canberra". Not sure if I can vouch for that, but it was a quite good pizza. I went for the "Deli Pizza". Sun dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
Pizzas were made to order, so the food took a while to arrive (and we were a group of nine), but was worth the wait. There wa also a nice outdoor seating area (if you didn't mind the sulphur cockatoos, which were crowding around like pigeons, hanging around).
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 4 June 2010
Rating: ****
Address: King George Terrace, Canberra, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
Website: http://www.porkbarrel.com.au
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Stairway to Heaven: Three bars across from Parliament
Through an unmarked door next to the Windsor Hotel opposite the Victoria State Parliament building, lay some interesting dining establishments.
The ground floor houses The European, next door (through the unmarked door) is The Melbourne Supper Club; a flight up from that is the Siglo Bar, partly in- and partly out-doors with a great view of Parliament and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
My colleague and I started at The European Restaurant (a heavy rain forced us indoors). We had a round of red wine (sadly, only European and no Australian wines were offered - perhaps because of the name) and interesting conversation before heading through the unmarked door to the The Melbourne Supper Club for a second glass of red, some polenta fries, and "party pies" (small little meat pies).
Heading up the final flight of stairs, we ordered a final glass of pinot noir and sat on the outside portion (the rain having ended) and enjoyed the view of the floodlit Parliament.
Service in all three was excellent, the location great, and food and drink quite good.
The European Restaurant
Meal: Drinks
Date Visited: 5 June 2010
Rating: ***
Address: 161 Spring St., Melbourne VIC 3000
Website: http://www.theeuropean.com.au
The Melbourne Supper Club
Meal: Wine and appetizers
Date Visited: 5 June 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 1st/161 Spring St., Melbourne VIC 3000
Website: http://www.visitmelbourne.com
Siglo Bar
Meal: Drinks
Date Visited: 5 June 2010
Rating: *****
Address: Level 2, 161 Spring Street, Melbourne
Website: N/A
Longrain Restaurant and Bar
Longrain Restaurant and Bar
When my hosts from the Melbourne Museum told their colleagues we were going to Longrain, there were many sad faces from those not going along.
On entering the restaurant, I could see why. With a modern Asian decor, fabulous smells, and a series of large, communal dining tables, it looked like a sure winner.
Our group went with pork hock with spicy sauces, a whole trout, egg net, and a tofu dish. All were as good as they looked. The egg net (this first time of had this dish), was tasty as well as interesting (a "net" made of scrambled eggs, enclosing a selection of meats and vegetables).
Highly recommended.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 2 June 2010
Rating: *****
Address: 85 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills, Melbourne, 2010
Website: http://www.longrain.com
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
United 873: SFO to IAD
I know there are some of you out there (@outtacontext, for example!) who say to get something at one of the gate spots before getting on the SFO/IAD route, but I just got in from Australia, and fought my way through customs and the transfer to terminal 3 and had only moments to spare (well, I thought I did, but then we ended up being nearly an hour late), so I just had time for a quick Peet's at the gate.
On board, I opted for the $9 turkey sandwich with a side of chips. Not bad. But I'll try and get something at the gate next time. Promise!
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 7 June 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the Air
Website: N/A
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Kristian's Monastiri
Kristian's Monastiri
Opting for a quiet dinner outside of the group, myself and two colleagues found a secluded former monastery (which had a laughing Buddha outside, so how could we go wrong?). We started with a bottle of Grüner Veltliner (my new favorite white wine) and were soon surprised with a chef's taste (a sort of carrot mouseline). For an appetizer, we we went with the veal tartare with fois gras which was decadently tasty. For my main course, I went with the Altwiener Tafelspitz (pot roast with potatoes and a fabulous fresh horseradish sauce.
We were given the English-translated menu (don't know why!) and some of the translations were entertaining. The mystery dish on the menu that we were all tempted to try was the Osso Buco vom Seeteufel (Monkfish). Still wondering exactly what that would look like!
Our service was excellent and the dining room nicely decorated and quiet (and the background music was all Beatles!).
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 27 May 2010
Rating: *****
Address: Neustiftgasse 16, A-1070 Wien
Website:http://kristians.monastiri.at/
Opting for a quiet dinner outside of the group, myself and two colleagues found a secluded former monastery (which had a laughing Buddha outside, so how could we go wrong?). We started with a bottle of Grüner Veltliner (my new favorite white wine) and were soon surprised with a chef's taste (a sort of carrot mouseline). For an appetizer, we we went with the veal tartare with fois gras which was decadently tasty. For my main course, I went with the Altwiener Tafelspitz (pot roast with potatoes and a fabulous fresh horseradish sauce.
We were given the English-translated menu (don't know why!) and some of the translations were entertaining. The mystery dish on the menu that we were all tempted to try was the Osso Buco vom Seeteufel (Monkfish). Still wondering exactly what that would look like!
Our service was excellent and the dining room nicely decorated and quiet (and the background music was all Beatles!).
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 27 May 2010
Rating: *****
Address: Neustiftgasse 16, A-1070 Wien
Website:http://kristians.monastiri.at/
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Quantas Domestic Flights: MEL to CBR (QF 814) and (QF 795)
I needed to make a short visit to Canberra and had a domestic Qantas flight of just about an hour between Melbourne and there. This is about the same as my well-traveled Washington-Boston route. But food service was certainly different! On the DC-Boston route, food service is limted to pretzels and beverage service; if you're lucky, and on US Airways, you'll sometimes have a prepackaged donut handed to you as you board. But Qantas offered meal service, in my case, breakfast. Juice, muffin, yogurt, choice of tea or coffee, and a bowl of cereal (on the trip up it was muesli, on the way back, crunchy honey Weet-Bix).
Meal: Breakfast
Date Visited: 3 and 5 June 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the air
Website: N/A
Mario's on Brunswick
Mario's
It was about eight o'clock and I'd just arrived in Melbourned after a flight from London, but I wasn't feeling much in the way of jet lag. So, my colleagues, who had arrived the day before, said we should go get some breakfast. Staying in the Fitzroy area of Melbourne, the place to head was Brunswick Street, a hip and happing strip of
shops, restaurants, and pubs.
After walking down the street a bit, we headed into Mario's, recommended by a local; we grabbed a table and I was quickly introduced to Australian coffee (I'll write more later). I had a bowl of muesli with fresh fruits and a glass of freshly squeezed orange
juice. My colleagues had egg plates (benedict and scambled) that looked fabulous).
Our wait staff had a bit of an attitude (reminding us at one point to tell him exactly what we all wanted then so he didn't have to make the twenty foot trip back to the kitchen again).
Mario's also introduced me to food prices in Australia. Suffice to say, this was the most expensive bowl of cereal I think I've ever had.
Meal: Breakfast
Date Visited: 31 May 2010
Rating: ***
Address: 303 Brunswick St., Fitzroy VIC 3065
Website: N/A
It was about eight o'clock and I'd just arrived in Melbourned after a flight from London, but I wasn't feeling much in the way of jet lag. So, my colleagues, who had arrived the day before, said we should go get some breakfast. Staying in the Fitzroy area of Melbourne, the place to head was Brunswick Street, a hip and happing strip of
shops, restaurants, and pubs.
After walking down the street a bit, we headed into Mario's, recommended by a local; we grabbed a table and I was quickly introduced to Australian coffee (I'll write more later). I had a bowl of muesli with fresh fruits and a glass of freshly squeezed orange
juice. My colleagues had egg plates (benedict and scambled) that looked fabulous).
Our wait staff had a bit of an attitude (reminding us at one point to tell him exactly what we all wanted then so he didn't have to make the twenty foot trip back to the kitchen again).
Mario's also introduced me to food prices in Australia. Suffice to say, this was the most expensive bowl of cereal I think I've ever had.
Meal: Breakfast
Date Visited: 31 May 2010
Rating: ***
Address: 303 Brunswick St., Fitzroy VIC 3065
Website: N/A
Il Vicolo: Italian in Melbourne
Il Vicolo
Meals for larger groups can be tricky. Either the diner or the restaurant needs to make compromises that often lead to a less than satisfactory mean (see for example, some of my dines in Vienna).
But then there are times when things click. Our group of thirteen paid a visit to Il Vicola, near the Melbourne Museum after a successful morning of meetings. The menu was simple, a few starter options, a few entree choices, and some desserts. A choice of a red or white wine.
Sensing that Melbourne would be a good seafood town, I went with the Classic Queenscliff Crayfish bisque for my starter (though not usually a crustacean type of guy). A nice bit of soup, just the right touch of the sea in a tomatoe base with a dollop of cream.
For my main course, I went with the BBQ pork, veal, and fennel Continental sausages with Spanish onion sauce, and mashed potatoes. A very tasty sausage indeed and the onion sauce was nice. I skipped the dessert and finished with an espresso. Each diner also shared in a bowl of greens for the table.
Service was a bit slow, but understandable with the size of the group (and the size of the kitchen).
Il Vicola pulled off the group lunch with aplomb.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 2 June 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 50 Grattan St., Carlton, Melbourne, VIC 3053
Website: http://wwwilvicolo.com.au
Meals for larger groups can be tricky. Either the diner or the restaurant needs to make compromises that often lead to a less than satisfactory mean (see for example, some of my dines in Vienna).
But then there are times when things click. Our group of thirteen paid a visit to Il Vicola, near the Melbourne Museum after a successful morning of meetings. The menu was simple, a few starter options, a few entree choices, and some desserts. A choice of a red or white wine.
Sensing that Melbourne would be a good seafood town, I went with the Classic Queenscliff Crayfish bisque for my starter (though not usually a crustacean type of guy). A nice bit of soup, just the right touch of the sea in a tomatoe base with a dollop of cream.
For my main course, I went with the BBQ pork, veal, and fennel Continental sausages with Spanish onion sauce, and mashed potatoes. A very tasty sausage indeed and the onion sauce was nice. I skipped the dessert and finished with an espresso. Each diner also shared in a bowl of greens for the table.
Service was a bit slow, but understandable with the size of the group (and the size of the kitchen).
Il Vicola pulled off the group lunch with aplomb.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 2 June 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 50 Grattan St., Carlton, Melbourne, VIC 3053
Website: http://wwwilvicolo.com.au
Friday, June 4, 2010
Qantas 10: LHR > SIN > MEL
Qantas from London to Melbourne
Whew, flying from London to Melbourne was quite the culinary adventure. In the, oh, twenty or so hours of the trip, there were five meals served. All quite good. Here's
the breakdown:
Qantas 10: LHR to SIN
I went with the pork goulous option (pork, potato mash, broccoli and carrots), served with a side of tabouleh. For dessert, an Eton Mess (pavolova with rasberries and cream). With it, I had coffee and a St. Hallett Shiraz/Grenache blend.
A few hours later came a snack pack with cookies, candy, and chocolates. In the last hours before landing, there was a hot breakfast option with a leek and potato fritta with a side of a pork sausage and sauteed spinach.
Meal: Supper/Snack/Breakfast
Date Visited: 29-30 May 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the Air
Website: N/A
After a brief layover in Singapore, we reboarded and the food started flowing again.
Qantas 10: SIN to MEL
On this flight, there was a lightsupper of a beef and red wine cassaroll with garlic potatos, carrots and green beans. I chose the Scrubby Rise Shiraz/Cab/Petite Verdot blend. Dessert was a bit of chocolate, followed later by a Nestle's Crunch ice cream. The last serving of the trip was a continental breakfast of juice, coffee, a fruit dish, and a sweet roll.
Overall, an quite impressive amount of pretty good food!
Meal: Light Dinner/Continental Breakfast
Date Visited: 30-31 May 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the Air
Website: N/A
Napiers: Not just the Bogan Burger
Napiers: Not just the Bogan Burger
My Melbourne connections said that we had to stop by the The Napier Hotel and it's pub since we were staying in the Fitzroy neighborhood. It had the look of a typical pub and, since it was still a bit early, not yet that crowded.
It took me a bit to get the hang of the Aussie pub and how to order. There wasn't wait service, exactly, but rather, you ordered at the bar and then the food was brought to you.
So, what to order? I wasn't that hungry, so I wanted a sandwich and ended up with the Suburban Burger. Not really a burger, but rather a steak sandwich. Quite qood and served with a side of fries. I topped it off with a variety of local beers.
But the hightlight was ordered by a colleage, the Bogan Burger (a bogan is sort of a Aussie version of a redneck, but with more positive connotations). Was is a bogan burger? Well, it's sort of the turducken of sandwiches, comprised of: Steak, Chicken Schnitzel, Caramalised Onions, Cheese, Pinepple, Beetroot, Potato Cake, Bacon, Egg, Lettuce, Tomato, Wedges and served with a salad.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 31 May 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 210 Napier St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Website: http://thenapierhotel.com/food-drink/
My Melbourne connections said that we had to stop by the The Napier Hotel and it's pub since we were staying in the Fitzroy neighborhood. It had the look of a typical pub and, since it was still a bit early, not yet that crowded.
It took me a bit to get the hang of the Aussie pub and how to order. There wasn't wait service, exactly, but rather, you ordered at the bar and then the food was brought to you.
So, what to order? I wasn't that hungry, so I wanted a sandwich and ended up with the Suburban Burger. Not really a burger, but rather a steak sandwich. Quite qood and served with a side of fries. I topped it off with a variety of local beers.
But the hightlight was ordered by a colleage, the Bogan Burger (a bogan is sort of a Aussie version of a redneck, but with more positive connotations). Was is a bogan burger? Well, it's sort of the turducken of sandwiches, comprised of: Steak, Chicken Schnitzel, Caramalised Onions, Cheese, Pinepple, Beetroot, Potato Cake, Bacon, Egg, Lettuce, Tomato, Wedges and served with a salad.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 31 May 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 210 Napier St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
Website: http://thenapierhotel.com/food-drink/
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Observatory Cafe, Royal Botanic Gardens, Victoria
Observatory Cafe
I was stopping by the Royal Botanic Garden in Melbourne and because our appointment wasn't til later in the day, we decided to have a bit of lunch before hand.
The Observatory Cafe, located by the old observatory buildings had a great selection of food. I went with the tandoori chicken wrap which was quite tasty. We sat outside and were soon surrounded by Indian mynah birds wanting a treat.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 31 May 2010
Rating: ****
Address: Royal Botanic Gardens Birdwood Ave., South Yarra VIC 3141
Website: http://www.observatorycafe.com.au/
I was stopping by the Royal Botanic Garden in Melbourne and because our appointment wasn't til later in the day, we decided to have a bit of lunch before hand.
The Observatory Cafe, located by the old observatory buildings had a great selection of food. I went with the tandoori chicken wrap which was quite tasty. We sat outside and were soon surrounded by Indian mynah birds wanting a treat.
Meal: Lunch
Date Visited: 31 May 2010
Rating: ****
Address: Royal Botanic Gardens Birdwood Ave., South Yarra VIC 3141
Website: http://www.observatorycafe.com.au/
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Chairman & Yip Restaurant
Chairman & Yip Restaurant
After attending a reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres, myself and the rest of my colleagues weren't quite in the mood for a large, heavy meal. One of the locals suggested Chairman & Yip Restaurant, where some good appetizers could be had.
Heading over, we were seated and proceeded to order (for the six of us) two rounds of three appetizers. A very nice duck pancakes, amazing scallops (served in a scallop shell), and dumplings (with a very good and spicy sauce).
Meal: Light Dinner
Date Visited: 3 June 2010
Rating: ****
Address: 108 Bunda St., Canberra City Australian Capital Territory 2601
Website: http://www.thechairmanandyip.com
Austrian Air: VIE to LHR
On a sort of quick flight (two hours or so), Austrian Air still served some real food (as opposed to just peanuts or pretzels). The offering was a half a chicken sandwich and a bit of rasberry chocoloate pudding. I supplemented it with coffee, and water. And, yes, a glass of the complimentary wine. I went with a white.
More like flying in the good old days!
Meal: Light Dinner
Date Visited: 29 May 2010
Rating: N/A
Address: In the air
Website: N/A
Asperagus on the Danube: Das Riverside
Asperagus on the Danube: Das Riverside
The next large group dinner for my group was held at a large restaurant on the Danube. The best part of the dinner was the lovely large table with a view of the river. The food, well ...
I started off with the asperagus soup with tiny croutons. Thin, but good. For an entree, since I hadn't had it yet, I went with the Wiener Schnnitzel with side salad and potatoe salad. Good, but nothing to waltz home about.
Again, service was slow (though again, we were a large group). Bottom line, go for the river view.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 28 May 2010
Rating: **
Address: Handelskai 256, 1020 Vienna
Website: http://www.river-side.cc/de/impressionen
The next large group dinner for my group was held at a large restaurant on the Danube. The best part of the dinner was the lovely large table with a view of the river. The food, well ...
I started off with the asperagus soup with tiny croutons. Thin, but good. For an entree, since I hadn't had it yet, I went with the Wiener Schnnitzel with side salad and potatoe salad. Good, but nothing to waltz home about.
Again, service was slow (though again, we were a large group). Bottom line, go for the river view.
Meal: Dinner
Date Visited: 28 May 2010
Rating: **
Address: Handelskai 256, 1020 Vienna
Website: http://www.river-side.cc/de/impressionen
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