Many of you have heard of these famous locations in the Los Angeles area especially if you watch the Food Network but have you been there?? Until Monday I would have said no as well.
Not exactly a health conscious line up for an afternoon of eats but with my meeting being cancelled it allows me the time to visit these locations that I've heard great things about for years.
Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs
Since 1939 this family owned hot spot has been is in the same location dishing out world famous chili dogs, burgers and much more. I have seen numerous TV specials about Pink’s and have always wanted to taste what all the hype is about.
I had no problem finding the place and must have been very lucky with parking and only waiting in line for 15 minutes. From my understanding the short wait I had would be admired by many. The wait was both good and bad for me. Good to look at the menu over and over and bad because……… I got to look over the menu over and over.
By the time it was my turn to order I had easily changed my mind a dozen times but ultimately settled on the Chili Dog with Kraut, the spicy version of the Chicago Dog and an order of Onion Rings. Yep………ouch. I think this is about as close as one could come to defining a “Gut Bomb”.
Everything was pretty good. Would I drive out of my way to visit again? Probably not, at least not by myself. I would go again with someone who hadn’t been before. The Chili Dog was better without the Kraut, great Onion Rings and the Chicago Dog was the bomb.
Randy’s Donuts
Built in 1952 this place has appeared in many movies and is always recognizable by the huge donut on top of the building. Only 8 miles from Pink’s or 30 min drive I had to do it. Another one of those seen on the Food Network, I again must see what all the hype is about.
First of all, let’s air some dirty laundry. I LOVE DONUTS!!! There I said it. I’m not talking about the donuts purchased at the grocery store or those mass produced chunks of cardboard like substances in the cellophane packages and white boxes located at the same place you buy fuel. I’m talking about the donuts made fresh daily with real ingredients by people who like to shake things up a little and try to think outside of the donut box.
Randy’s is it. Lots of choices and priced very reasonable. I always like to find out what the workers eat when they eat at their place of business and this day is no different. She tells me the only one she eats is the Buttermilk Donut. Um……ok……butter good, milk good and donut, well, we already covered that. This donut ranks right up there with the best I have ever had. Crunchy glazed outside with a nice tender inside beaming with buttermilk flavors. I wish I had gotten at least a half dozen before driving away. I also tried a Devils Food Cake but it failed to meet the upper rankings of the donut scale. Will I go back?? Yep, anytime. Lots more on the menu to explore in addition to adding a 6 pack of buttermilk to the order.
http://www.pinkshollywood.com/
http://randys-donuts.com/
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Cool Hand Luke's 2
After getting some negative reviews from a reader or two in regards to my comments in March about Cool Hand Luke’s I felt it necessary to try the newly opened restaurant in Eagle.
Keeping a very open mind I meet my family after returning from a weekly trip. Walking in the door I am thrilled to not have the same complaint about the loudness of the music. The restaurant is clean, nice and the service is great. Should be, it just opened right!!!!
Truly, everyone working here is very nice and eager to serve. My problem…….the food is so blahh it makes me think I’m dining at Sizzler but paying double the price. We tried a variety of dishes including an appetizer and salad, but the group all agreed that the most eatable thing was the salad and bread.
I have not been to the one in downtown Boise and have no future plans to. If you’re looking to try the one in Eagle I suggest you do so in the very near future or it may no longer be there.
Keeping a very open mind I meet my family after returning from a weekly trip. Walking in the door I am thrilled to not have the same complaint about the loudness of the music. The restaurant is clean, nice and the service is great. Should be, it just opened right!!!!
Truly, everyone working here is very nice and eager to serve. My problem…….the food is so blahh it makes me think I’m dining at Sizzler but paying double the price. We tried a variety of dishes including an appetizer and salad, but the group all agreed that the most eatable thing was the salad and bread.
I have not been to the one in downtown Boise and have no future plans to. If you’re looking to try the one in Eagle I suggest you do so in the very near future or it may no longer be there.
Monday, October 20, 2008
The Flying Saucer
If memory serves, everyone one of the blogs I’ve done to date has been a blog about food. I suppose this is a good thing since it’s a food blog but I had to let everyone know about the “Flying Saucer”.
While meeting with some folks in Dallas this past week we indulged in several beers at several different locations but the only must stop I noted is the Flying Saucer. There are a couple of locations in the Dallas area and this day we hit the Addison location.
It’s not often that I get to indulge in beers at 2:30 in the afternoon but I’ll use the excuse that I wasn’t driving and this is where we ended up. Unfortunately we had just eaten lunch or I would have knocked down a bratwurst with my beer. The food menu appeared to be the standard bar menu but the beer menu is what fascinated me.
This location has over 200 beers in house (bottles and draft) covering all shades of the beer spectrum. Don’t be afraid to ask the bar tender for some help, I did and he did a great job guiding me though the menu and providing samples. Multiple samples!!!
As usual, I stayed in the dark end of the spectrum indulging in a Murphy’s Stout (Draft), Left Hand Black Jack Porter (Bottle) and a brew I wish I had and should have know about prior to this visit, the New Belgium 1554 (Draft). This was the highlight of my trip. The 1554 is a Schwarbier (Black Beer) type that is, as described by the Flying Saucer web site, “Other than being dark in color, 1554 has little in common with Porters or Stouts. The beer is fermented at relatively high temperatures using European lager yeast that imparts a refreshing, zesty acidity. Chocolate and coffee tones in the nose give way to a surprisingly clean finish”.
Now I’m on the quest to finding the 1554 in the bottled version here in Boise. I’ve got some good leads so keep your fingers crossed.
Make sure to visit the Flying Saucer at any of their locations and see for yourself what a wonderful place this is. It’s like finding Oz only you won’t want to go home!!!!!!!!!
http://www.beerknurd.com/
While meeting with some folks in Dallas this past week we indulged in several beers at several different locations but the only must stop I noted is the Flying Saucer. There are a couple of locations in the Dallas area and this day we hit the Addison location.
It’s not often that I get to indulge in beers at 2:30 in the afternoon but I’ll use the excuse that I wasn’t driving and this is where we ended up. Unfortunately we had just eaten lunch or I would have knocked down a bratwurst with my beer. The food menu appeared to be the standard bar menu but the beer menu is what fascinated me.
This location has over 200 beers in house (bottles and draft) covering all shades of the beer spectrum. Don’t be afraid to ask the bar tender for some help, I did and he did a great job guiding me though the menu and providing samples. Multiple samples!!!
As usual, I stayed in the dark end of the spectrum indulging in a Murphy’s Stout (Draft), Left Hand Black Jack Porter (Bottle) and a brew I wish I had and should have know about prior to this visit, the New Belgium 1554 (Draft). This was the highlight of my trip. The 1554 is a Schwarbier (Black Beer) type that is, as described by the Flying Saucer web site, “Other than being dark in color, 1554 has little in common with Porters or Stouts. The beer is fermented at relatively high temperatures using European lager yeast that imparts a refreshing, zesty acidity. Chocolate and coffee tones in the nose give way to a surprisingly clean finish”.
Now I’m on the quest to finding the 1554 in the bottled version here in Boise. I’ve got some good leads so keep your fingers crossed.
Make sure to visit the Flying Saucer at any of their locations and see for yourself what a wonderful place this is. It’s like finding Oz only you won’t want to go home!!!!!!!!!
http://www.beerknurd.com/
Friday, October 10, 2008
Moose’s Tooth
I’m going against what I said in a previous blog about waiting to make three visits to an establishment prior to writing the blog. After visiting this place a second time my thoughts are confirmed that this is one of the best Pizza places I have ever been to and is a must visit when in Anchorage. I would wait until next year though. After being there for 4 days this week I can honestly say I've seen my first 4 days of winter. It never got above freezing and snowed most of the time. Welcome to AK!!!
The “Tooth”, as some of the locals call it, has a pizza menu consisting of 38 of their favorites as well as the build your own menu, 6 salads, sandwiches and my favorite, 17 hand crafted beers on tap.
This visit I indulge in the “Greek Gyro” pizza that consists of the traditional cucumber yogurt sauce, greek sausage, roma tomatoes, red onions and provolone cheese. This flavorful pizza is served up on a hand tossed crust that mixes the perfect amount of crunchy and chewy. Caesar salad made a nice side dish.
OK!!! BEER!!! Oh yeah!!! 17 of them!!! My first visit to this establishment earlier in the year was a blur. I think I must have tried all 17. This time I proceed with a little more patience and sampled the Pipeline Stout, Prince Williams Porter and the First Tap – Smokin’ Willies Porter. All three were some of the best dark beers I’ve had in a long time but the Smokin’ Willies jump out as the clear choice of the night. Not much different than their PW Porter but I preferred the milder hops flavor of the Smokin’ Willies. Since I was driving I only had two while waiting on the pizza to go but next time I will be sure to take a cab down and back to allow myself the means to indulge in some of the other fine brews or possibly something sweet like the “Pipe Line Stout Chocolate Cake” or “Moose Pie”. Or maybe, I'll get a growler to take back to the room!!! Wish I would have thought of that before now. @$%#!!!
The “Tooth”, as some of the locals call it, has a pizza menu consisting of 38 of their favorites as well as the build your own menu, 6 salads, sandwiches and my favorite, 17 hand crafted beers on tap.
This visit I indulge in the “Greek Gyro” pizza that consists of the traditional cucumber yogurt sauce, greek sausage, roma tomatoes, red onions and provolone cheese. This flavorful pizza is served up on a hand tossed crust that mixes the perfect amount of crunchy and chewy. Caesar salad made a nice side dish.
OK!!! BEER!!! Oh yeah!!! 17 of them!!! My first visit to this establishment earlier in the year was a blur. I think I must have tried all 17. This time I proceed with a little more patience and sampled the Pipeline Stout, Prince Williams Porter and the First Tap – Smokin’ Willies Porter. All three were some of the best dark beers I’ve had in a long time but the Smokin’ Willies jump out as the clear choice of the night. Not much different than their PW Porter but I preferred the milder hops flavor of the Smokin’ Willies. Since I was driving I only had two while waiting on the pizza to go but next time I will be sure to take a cab down and back to allow myself the means to indulge in some of the other fine brews or possibly something sweet like the “Pipe Line Stout Chocolate Cake” or “Moose Pie”. Or maybe, I'll get a growler to take back to the room!!! Wish I would have thought of that before now. @$%#!!!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Sub vs.Sub vs.Sub vs.Sub????
OK, I know it’s been a while since the last blog and for that I apologize. I have a new rule in blogging. I plan to visit a restaurant or eatery three times prior to blogging about it unless they really piss me off, disappoint me beyond belief or some other reason that would fall into the category. I might even be so thrilled I can’t wait to let everyone know about it. It can happen. Ha, Ha, Ha!!!
And now…..for the much anticipated moment and your chance to get warmed up for the presidential elections, except you get three choices, the Sub vs. Sub blog. Yeah!!!!!! Bells….whistles…streamers…etc.
I want to know your favorite sandwich joint out of the three chain sub shops listed. I’m sure that most of readers have been to each of these multiple times but really haven’t put much thought into which one they would go to if they were side by side.
Subway – Yep. You’ve been there a thousand times but is it because you really like it or is it just really convenient?
Quiznos - Yep. Just ok with me. I eat here mostly in airports. Good substitute for a fast food choice on the road but not going out of my way to find a location in town.
Blimpie – Yeah. I certainly like this one better but they don’t seem to be as conveniently located as their top competitor.
Port of Subs – Hooray!!! Hands down my favorite of the three. Relatively new to this area in comparison but widely located throughout the west and growing. I would actually like to own one or five of these. Yummy!! If for some reason you haven’t been yet. Go before you vote. I think you’ll side with me on this one. Not and over abundance of these around town yet but more popping up every year.
In addition to your votes I would also be interested in tying sub shops local to the Boise area. Write in a tell us your favorite. Cobby’s, Deli George, Hugo’s???? Just some of my favorite non-national chain sub shops and delicatessens. Has anyone been to Gandolfo’s?????? Also new to Boise, haven’t been yet but hear the advertisements on the radio.
And now…..for the much anticipated moment and your chance to get warmed up for the presidential elections, except you get three choices, the Sub vs. Sub blog. Yeah!!!!!! Bells….whistles…streamers…etc.
I want to know your favorite sandwich joint out of the three chain sub shops listed. I’m sure that most of readers have been to each of these multiple times but really haven’t put much thought into which one they would go to if they were side by side.
Subway – Yep. You’ve been there a thousand times but is it because you really like it or is it just really convenient?
Quiznos - Yep. Just ok with me. I eat here mostly in airports. Good substitute for a fast food choice on the road but not going out of my way to find a location in town.
Blimpie – Yeah. I certainly like this one better but they don’t seem to be as conveniently located as their top competitor.
Port of Subs – Hooray!!! Hands down my favorite of the three. Relatively new to this area in comparison but widely located throughout the west and growing. I would actually like to own one or five of these. Yummy!! If for some reason you haven’t been yet. Go before you vote. I think you’ll side with me on this one. Not and over abundance of these around town yet but more popping up every year.
In addition to your votes I would also be interested in tying sub shops local to the Boise area. Write in a tell us your favorite. Cobby’s, Deli George, Hugo’s???? Just some of my favorite non-national chain sub shops and delicatessens. Has anyone been to Gandolfo’s?????? Also new to Boise, haven’t been yet but hear the advertisements on the radio.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Los Beto's
With two locations in Boise (Fairview and State St.) you would think I would have been there before now. Nope, not the case and I am very disappointed that I wasted all of those trips to what I thought was the best Mexican food in town. Chapala’s has always been a long time favorite of mine and I would find myself dining there at least once a week until I met its match. I will miss the chips and salsa but they can keep the rest as far as I’m concerned.
My all time favorite Mexican dish is none other than Carnitas. Tender chunks of pork simmered or braised in green chilies and seasoning then typically broiled or fried prior to serving providing a crust like exterior that melts in your mouth. Whoa!!!!…….Almost passed out and am salivating to the point of needing to change my shirt. Chapala’s does a decent job but you’re in for a real treat at Los Beto’s
They have a nicely proportioned menu that will meet the request of the patrons; I just haven’t tried anything but the Carnitas yet. Not sure that I can. I get the Carnitas plate, AKA #13 that is served with beans, rice and homemade flour or corn tortillas. Several other plates accompany the #13 on the menu board but the also serve and believe they are famous for there burritos; breakfast lunch and dinner. Price is right as well. Breakfast can be purchased for under $3, lunch is a couple bucks more and I would be surprised if anyone left that place hungry. As with all great food establishments, get there early or stand in line. They are also open 24 hours a day. Next time your out late down town and just can’t stomach the Yankee Dog, have the cabby stop by on the way home.
I will be dinning at Los Beto’s today for the #13 with corn tortillas and quite possibly could do the same tomorrow as well. If I’m not eating pork on a daily basis it’s not for the lack of trying. PORK RULES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My all time favorite Mexican dish is none other than Carnitas. Tender chunks of pork simmered or braised in green chilies and seasoning then typically broiled or fried prior to serving providing a crust like exterior that melts in your mouth. Whoa!!!!…….Almost passed out and am salivating to the point of needing to change my shirt. Chapala’s does a decent job but you’re in for a real treat at Los Beto’s
They have a nicely proportioned menu that will meet the request of the patrons; I just haven’t tried anything but the Carnitas yet. Not sure that I can. I get the Carnitas plate, AKA #13 that is served with beans, rice and homemade flour or corn tortillas. Several other plates accompany the #13 on the menu board but the also serve and believe they are famous for there burritos; breakfast lunch and dinner. Price is right as well. Breakfast can be purchased for under $3, lunch is a couple bucks more and I would be surprised if anyone left that place hungry. As with all great food establishments, get there early or stand in line. They are also open 24 hours a day. Next time your out late down town and just can’t stomach the Yankee Dog, have the cabby stop by on the way home.
I will be dinning at Los Beto’s today for the #13 with corn tortillas and quite possibly could do the same tomorrow as well. If I’m not eating pork on a daily basis it’s not for the lack of trying. PORK RULES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Original Pancake House – Eagle, ID
Usually I will visit a place at least twice before forming an opinion worth blogging about and this establishment is no different. I have actually been to this location 4 times since they opened and have had the same opinion each of these visits with the exception of this last visit that truly amplified my opinions from the previous.
Almost more important than food quality to me is the service. I expect good service every time I go out to eat. Maybe my expectations are too high of this place but I think most readers would agree with me after one visit to the Original Pancake House that their service SUCKS!!!!! On past visits I have thought the same but never stressed too hard about it while expecting the delay to get food that is actually of very good quality. If you have nothing to do for the morning and can wait for an exorbitant amount of time to get your meal, this is your place. My advice is to bring something to do, read the newspaper, finish some knitting, write a novel, etc.
On this past Saturday our family met up with some others for a “kid’s breakfast” prior to starting school this week. All in all there are 4 adults and 5 kids. Yes this is a larger party of people and the standard delay is expected for such thing. My wife showed up at the place at 9 am with the rest of us not due until 9:30 am. She ordered for everyone at that time expecting the food to be on the table shortly after the rest of the party arrived. Not so, in fact it took almost an hour to get the order to the table. Not even the whole order either. Apparently when you order corned beef hash you should call in the night before. Everyone was done eating before I got my order. Quality is tops for their eggs, bacon, hash, omelets and of course the pancakes but the service needs some serious help if they plan to stay in business. Also, if plan to drink coffee it may be a good idea to take a larger cup with you or drink slowly from theirs. You see staff wondering around but they are mostly empty handed.
Almost more important than food quality to me is the service. I expect good service every time I go out to eat. Maybe my expectations are too high of this place but I think most readers would agree with me after one visit to the Original Pancake House that their service SUCKS!!!!! On past visits I have thought the same but never stressed too hard about it while expecting the delay to get food that is actually of very good quality. If you have nothing to do for the morning and can wait for an exorbitant amount of time to get your meal, this is your place. My advice is to bring something to do, read the newspaper, finish some knitting, write a novel, etc.
On this past Saturday our family met up with some others for a “kid’s breakfast” prior to starting school this week. All in all there are 4 adults and 5 kids. Yes this is a larger party of people and the standard delay is expected for such thing. My wife showed up at the place at 9 am with the rest of us not due until 9:30 am. She ordered for everyone at that time expecting the food to be on the table shortly after the rest of the party arrived. Not so, in fact it took almost an hour to get the order to the table. Not even the whole order either. Apparently when you order corned beef hash you should call in the night before. Everyone was done eating before I got my order. Quality is tops for their eggs, bacon, hash, omelets and of course the pancakes but the service needs some serious help if they plan to stay in business. Also, if plan to drink coffee it may be a good idea to take a larger cup with you or drink slowly from theirs. You see staff wondering around but they are mostly empty handed.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Food Nights - To do and not to do in Maui
After being here in Maui for just over a week now we have had our food experience ups and downs. Ups would include last night’s dinner at Mama’s fish house (see previous blog) and the meals we have cooked here at the condo. Including the Bonsai burgers (teriyaki burgers topped with fresh grilled Pineapple), the Coconut and Panko Crusted Mahi-mahi topped with fresh Mango Salsa paired with coconut white rice and tonight’s dinner consisting of Beef Filets topped with caramelized Maui sweet onions, blue cheese and red wine reduction, served with fresh garlic green beans, chopped romaine salad and steamed Alaskan King Crab legs. Yes we have eaten very well and I have enjoyed cooking for everyone. It’s nice to stay at a location that will allow us to do this but part of vacation is enjoying the local fare.
Up – Old Lahaina Luau - http://www.oldlahainaluau.com/index_main.html
Hands down this is one of the best experiences I can recall on vacation. This luau is full of Hawaiian history and traditional dance. Oh, and the food isn’t bad either. Kailua pork tops the menu coked in the traditional style ”Imu” (pit oven in the sand covered with banana leaves). Also on the buffet is steak, chicken, fish, salads, fruit, etc. Most things on the buffet line where quite enjoyable including the macadamia tarts served on the desert tray at each table. This place is sold out every night so make sure to get your reservations well in advance and I would suggest asking for the traditional seating up front. $95 per person and worth every penny. All food, drinks (including alcoholic) and entertainment is included but make sure to tip your waiter. Best Mai Tai in the world.
Down – Quicksilver Sunset Dinner Cruise
Wow. Not a good wow either. We decided prior to our visit we would not seek out a dinner cruise while we are here. I envisioned a short boat ride eating mediocre food with watered down drinks and poor entertainment. What we got was much worse.
The couple we are vacationing with had been on a dinner cruise while on their Honeymoon 7 years ago and enjoyed every minute of it. We agreed that if we could find the same one they had gone on then that we would book the trip. While in Lahaina picking up the tickets at Boss Frog’s that I purchased for the Luau we asked the gentlemen about this dinner cruise. Apparently our friends were drunk the whole time when here before or in the twilight zone. At Boss Frog’s they have never heard of this dinner cruise our friends spoke of. Never the less, they of course recommended one that we are sure to enjoy. Great deal too. Book now and get your tickets two for one or $38 per person. Also promised to be a five star romantic experience. Yeh right.
From the time we board the boat to now and beyond I regret making the decision to book this trip. As we find our seat on the boat I have the immediate thought that most of the other patrons booked there tickets through Wal-Mart. Our group is dressed up and ready for a fabulously romantic experience and some of the others are in flip flops, swim suits, spandex, moo moos and tank tops. As we leave the dock and head out to sea about 1 mile off the coast, yep one whole mile before we stop and spin in circles waiting for dinner and the sun to set. Did I mention the entertainment? A one man band singing requests and an occasional Hawaiian style song? He sounds very similar to the worst Karaoke singer you have ever seen or heard but plays his own guitar so most of the songs are barley even recognizable.
Dinner time and we can’t wait for the Prim Rib, Chicken, coconut rice, etc. Oh, woops, I guess we waited to long to get in line. Out of 61 paying customers on boards I would guess there was only enough food for 50. They ran out of food on a dinner cruise buffet???? What little food we did get was over cooked, under cooked or just flat tasteless. Good thing they gave us free alcoholic beverages. Oh, but only two drinks per person until you have to pay for the rest. They did give out complimentary drinks to those of us who didn’t get much to eat. A poor offering to top of one of the worst vacation experiences of my life. Five star service my butt. At least we are open minded enough to make the most out of it and laugh the evening away not letting it ruin our vacation.
Next time we will spend an additional night at Mama’s fish house or cooking at the condo.
Up – Old Lahaina Luau - http://www.oldlahainaluau.com/index_main.html
Hands down this is one of the best experiences I can recall on vacation. This luau is full of Hawaiian history and traditional dance. Oh, and the food isn’t bad either. Kailua pork tops the menu coked in the traditional style ”Imu” (pit oven in the sand covered with banana leaves). Also on the buffet is steak, chicken, fish, salads, fruit, etc. Most things on the buffet line where quite enjoyable including the macadamia tarts served on the desert tray at each table. This place is sold out every night so make sure to get your reservations well in advance and I would suggest asking for the traditional seating up front. $95 per person and worth every penny. All food, drinks (including alcoholic) and entertainment is included but make sure to tip your waiter. Best Mai Tai in the world.
Down – Quicksilver Sunset Dinner Cruise
Wow. Not a good wow either. We decided prior to our visit we would not seek out a dinner cruise while we are here. I envisioned a short boat ride eating mediocre food with watered down drinks and poor entertainment. What we got was much worse.
The couple we are vacationing with had been on a dinner cruise while on their Honeymoon 7 years ago and enjoyed every minute of it. We agreed that if we could find the same one they had gone on then that we would book the trip. While in Lahaina picking up the tickets at Boss Frog’s that I purchased for the Luau we asked the gentlemen about this dinner cruise. Apparently our friends were drunk the whole time when here before or in the twilight zone. At Boss Frog’s they have never heard of this dinner cruise our friends spoke of. Never the less, they of course recommended one that we are sure to enjoy. Great deal too. Book now and get your tickets two for one or $38 per person. Also promised to be a five star romantic experience. Yeh right.
From the time we board the boat to now and beyond I regret making the decision to book this trip. As we find our seat on the boat I have the immediate thought that most of the other patrons booked there tickets through Wal-Mart. Our group is dressed up and ready for a fabulously romantic experience and some of the others are in flip flops, swim suits, spandex, moo moos and tank tops. As we leave the dock and head out to sea about 1 mile off the coast, yep one whole mile before we stop and spin in circles waiting for dinner and the sun to set. Did I mention the entertainment? A one man band singing requests and an occasional Hawaiian style song? He sounds very similar to the worst Karaoke singer you have ever seen or heard but plays his own guitar so most of the songs are barley even recognizable.
Dinner time and we can’t wait for the Prim Rib, Chicken, coconut rice, etc. Oh, woops, I guess we waited to long to get in line. Out of 61 paying customers on boards I would guess there was only enough food for 50. They ran out of food on a dinner cruise buffet???? What little food we did get was over cooked, under cooked or just flat tasteless. Good thing they gave us free alcoholic beverages. Oh, but only two drinks per person until you have to pay for the rest. They did give out complimentary drinks to those of us who didn’t get much to eat. A poor offering to top of one of the worst vacation experiences of my life. Five star service my butt. At least we are open minded enough to make the most out of it and laugh the evening away not letting it ruin our vacation.
Next time we will spend an additional night at Mama’s fish house or cooking at the condo.
Mama’s Fish House - Paia, HI
Located on the island of Maui, Mama’s is a must stop for any couple or group visiting the island. The setting and view from the restaurant is like that of a scene from a movie. Sandy beach, ocean waves, sunset and palm trees complete this surreal visual experience.
Open up your wallet. When preparing to dine at Mama’s make sure to make a reservation and be prepared to spend some dough. This place is packed on a regular basis especially around sunset time so call well in advance. You may also want to think of getting a second or third job to fund this experience. Expect to spend at least $100+ per person if you planning on drinking on your visit. If it’s any indication of what your getting into, the house wine is Pride Vineyards http://www.pridewine.com/ . We selected the Pride 2006 Cabernet Franc at $120 a bottle. Of course the restaurant marks it up 100% but still worth every penny.
First class treatment from start to finish can be expected. Valet the car when you get there and work your way to the bar. They serve a variety of tropical drinks as well as any others you can think of. Be sure to check out the wine list as well.
The appetizer menu is not completely overwhelming but the 4 of us attending this night found a couple that tempted our taste buds. Macadamia nut crusted crab cakes and lobster guacamole find their way to the table and in to our mouths in a matter of minutes. Not overly impressed with the crab cakes (mine are hard to beat) but thrilled with the explosion of flavor in the guacamole. A little disappointed in the portion size of our fist delivery but overall a pretty good pick.
Salads and soups are next on the menu but having a hard time justifying a $20+ salad I opt for the Crab and Corn chowder and the wife spies the Chilled Cucumber soup. After tasting both of them I decide I have made the better decision but both are a wonderful second course.
Don’t feel ashamed to split dishes here. The chef will send each dish out as he normally would but the waiter will gladly bring you a second plate to split the meal. This is a good way to cut down on the cost a little while still enjoying yourselves and not overeating. Especially when you entrée is a Mahi-mahi stuffed with Lobster and Crab crusted with macadamia nuts and tipping the economic scale to the tune of $46. This dish was rich enough and well portioned for two and sparked the taste buds with every bite.
Dessert is not an option tonight and not because of the price or selection. Surprisingly enough all of us are full after splitting appetizers, soup and entrees. As a last effort to secure our nights enjoyment our waiter surprises us with a complementary port wine and slice of Mama’s Chocolate Kuau Pie. This pie is similar to a chocolate moose pie on a Carmel cookie crust. Not my favorite but the rest of the table made sure there was not a crumb left on the plate.
Total cost for 4 adults indulging in pre dinner cocktails, two appetizers, 3 bowls of soup, two entrees and a very nice bottle of wine, plus tip………..$420. Was it worth it you ask? I would go back again tonight if I could.
http://www.mamasfishhouse.com/
Open up your wallet. When preparing to dine at Mama’s make sure to make a reservation and be prepared to spend some dough. This place is packed on a regular basis especially around sunset time so call well in advance. You may also want to think of getting a second or third job to fund this experience. Expect to spend at least $100+ per person if you planning on drinking on your visit. If it’s any indication of what your getting into, the house wine is Pride Vineyards http://www.pridewine.com/ . We selected the Pride 2006 Cabernet Franc at $120 a bottle. Of course the restaurant marks it up 100% but still worth every penny.
First class treatment from start to finish can be expected. Valet the car when you get there and work your way to the bar. They serve a variety of tropical drinks as well as any others you can think of. Be sure to check out the wine list as well.
The appetizer menu is not completely overwhelming but the 4 of us attending this night found a couple that tempted our taste buds. Macadamia nut crusted crab cakes and lobster guacamole find their way to the table and in to our mouths in a matter of minutes. Not overly impressed with the crab cakes (mine are hard to beat) but thrilled with the explosion of flavor in the guacamole. A little disappointed in the portion size of our fist delivery but overall a pretty good pick.
Salads and soups are next on the menu but having a hard time justifying a $20+ salad I opt for the Crab and Corn chowder and the wife spies the Chilled Cucumber soup. After tasting both of them I decide I have made the better decision but both are a wonderful second course.
Don’t feel ashamed to split dishes here. The chef will send each dish out as he normally would but the waiter will gladly bring you a second plate to split the meal. This is a good way to cut down on the cost a little while still enjoying yourselves and not overeating. Especially when you entrée is a Mahi-mahi stuffed with Lobster and Crab crusted with macadamia nuts and tipping the economic scale to the tune of $46. This dish was rich enough and well portioned for two and sparked the taste buds with every bite.
Dessert is not an option tonight and not because of the price or selection. Surprisingly enough all of us are full after splitting appetizers, soup and entrees. As a last effort to secure our nights enjoyment our waiter surprises us with a complementary port wine and slice of Mama’s Chocolate Kuau Pie. This pie is similar to a chocolate moose pie on a Carmel cookie crust. Not my favorite but the rest of the table made sure there was not a crumb left on the plate.
Total cost for 4 adults indulging in pre dinner cocktails, two appetizers, 3 bowls of soup, two entrees and a very nice bottle of wine, plus tip………..$420. Was it worth it you ask? I would go back again tonight if I could.
http://www.mamasfishhouse.com/
Friday, June 27, 2008
Seasons, Eagle ID.
I have finally found a place in Idaho that serves my favorite southern sandwich, the Muffeletta. Seasons Wine Bar and Deli is located in the newly constructed area of Eagle on the north side of Old State Street. If you haven’t been there yet I would classify it as a must visit type of place. Nice selection of wines, beer and gourmet* dips, dressings and goodies all for individual sale as well as a sit down restaurant. Good size section of out door seating as well.
There menu is just large enough to provide the options needed for a nice lunch or dinner. Mostly made up of salads and sandwiches, they also have a couple of deserts and display case of Moonstruck chocolates to choose from.
On this day I am meeting a good friend of mine for lunch and neither of us is disappointed with our choice. He has the club that is packed with meat and served on what appears to be a homemade wheat bread. I of course get the Muffeletta, actually half of a Ham Muffeletta. Although this is not the traditional New Orleans fare it’s close enough to give that authentic taste of the south. Seasons serves two versions, ham and turkey, leaving out the fatty Italian meats of the original jazz city delight. A full sandwich is $18 and large enough for 4 people to eat along with a side dish a piece. The half of sandwich costs $9.50 and was large enough to eat for lunch for two days. I could be giving this place to much credit but when your buddy buys you lunch it might all just look and tastes better. Thanks for lunch Harold!!!!
* Gourmet – I hate to use this word. I think it’s over used in today’s society but struggle to find another word to describe the syrups, dressings, dips and marinades on the shelves in there homemade jars and bottles. Check them out for yourselves. http://seasonsdelicatering.com/
There menu is just large enough to provide the options needed for a nice lunch or dinner. Mostly made up of salads and sandwiches, they also have a couple of deserts and display case of Moonstruck chocolates to choose from.
On this day I am meeting a good friend of mine for lunch and neither of us is disappointed with our choice. He has the club that is packed with meat and served on what appears to be a homemade wheat bread. I of course get the Muffeletta, actually half of a Ham Muffeletta. Although this is not the traditional New Orleans fare it’s close enough to give that authentic taste of the south. Seasons serves two versions, ham and turkey, leaving out the fatty Italian meats of the original jazz city delight. A full sandwich is $18 and large enough for 4 people to eat along with a side dish a piece. The half of sandwich costs $9.50 and was large enough to eat for lunch for two days. I could be giving this place to much credit but when your buddy buys you lunch it might all just look and tastes better. Thanks for lunch Harold!!!!
* Gourmet – I hate to use this word. I think it’s over used in today’s society but struggle to find another word to describe the syrups, dressings, dips and marinades on the shelves in there homemade jars and bottles. Check them out for yourselves. http://seasonsdelicatering.com/
Friday, June 20, 2008
Alaska Trip
I have been trying to write for a couple of weeks and just haven’t found the time until now. As of late I have been to Idaho Falls, Montrose CO and just got back yesterday from Alaska. So let’s star there since it’s still fresh in my mind.
Fairbanks, AK
This is one confusing place. Look at all of the simple things you do in a normal day and over complicate them by 50%. This is life in Fairbanks. Nothing comes easy and what you do get is “EXPENSIVE”. Actually, now that I think about it, it’s just like most every part of California I’ve been to.
Big Al’s Pizza is a good place for pizza in Fairbanks. The Big Al’s special is a loaded combo that was actually very good. I was a little confused that the bar was separate from the rest but yet still attached and…………….well, like I said, confusing. Great choice of local beer though. We had the Pick Axe Porter from Silver Gulch Brewing in Fairbanks. Not near as heavy as a regular porter and very refreshing when served icy cold.
Pikes Peak is one of the most famous places in Fairbanks. Ask anyone in town were to get a great meal and you will most likely be directed here. I would like to sample everything on the menu. From fish to crab to steak to burgers this place has it all and it all looks and smells great. Not overly impressed with the selections of beer but found an Alaskan Oatmeal Stout that surprisingly paired nicely with the grilled halibut. They also have a full bar that includes a nice selection of whiskey and scotch.
Anchorage, AK
I had a very short trip to Anchorage this time around but found myself at the usual hang out. The Peanut Farm has been a happening local establishment for many years. By Alaska standards they have a huge beer selection and the menu is comparable to every large sports bar you’ve ever been to. Nothing on the menu really jumps out as being the best in its class but if you find yourself here, try the Halibut fingers on the appetizer menu. You wont’ be disappointed and still have room for beer. Also, the location is great if you’re in Alaska to fish with your buddies and want to experience the world renowned “Great Alaska Bush Co.” It’s within staggering distance but make sure to catch a cab back to the hotel and keep one hand on your wallet.
If your looking for a nice place to eat and unwind after your fishing trip (or the Bush Co.), make sure to visit Sullivan’s Steakhouse in downtown Anchorage. Expensive but worth every penny. Great wine list and nice selection of cigars to boot.
Fairbanks, AK
This is one confusing place. Look at all of the simple things you do in a normal day and over complicate them by 50%. This is life in Fairbanks. Nothing comes easy and what you do get is “EXPENSIVE”. Actually, now that I think about it, it’s just like most every part of California I’ve been to.
Big Al’s Pizza is a good place for pizza in Fairbanks. The Big Al’s special is a loaded combo that was actually very good. I was a little confused that the bar was separate from the rest but yet still attached and…………….well, like I said, confusing. Great choice of local beer though. We had the Pick Axe Porter from Silver Gulch Brewing in Fairbanks. Not near as heavy as a regular porter and very refreshing when served icy cold.
Pikes Peak is one of the most famous places in Fairbanks. Ask anyone in town were to get a great meal and you will most likely be directed here. I would like to sample everything on the menu. From fish to crab to steak to burgers this place has it all and it all looks and smells great. Not overly impressed with the selections of beer but found an Alaskan Oatmeal Stout that surprisingly paired nicely with the grilled halibut. They also have a full bar that includes a nice selection of whiskey and scotch.
Anchorage, AK
I had a very short trip to Anchorage this time around but found myself at the usual hang out. The Peanut Farm has been a happening local establishment for many years. By Alaska standards they have a huge beer selection and the menu is comparable to every large sports bar you’ve ever been to. Nothing on the menu really jumps out as being the best in its class but if you find yourself here, try the Halibut fingers on the appetizer menu. You wont’ be disappointed and still have room for beer. Also, the location is great if you’re in Alaska to fish with your buddies and want to experience the world renowned “Great Alaska Bush Co.” It’s within staggering distance but make sure to catch a cab back to the hotel and keep one hand on your wallet.
If your looking for a nice place to eat and unwind after your fishing trip (or the Bush Co.), make sure to visit Sullivan’s Steakhouse in downtown Anchorage. Expensive but worth every penny. Great wine list and nice selection of cigars to boot.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Flatbread Community Oven
Flatbread is located in the Bown Crossing community and a little out of the way if you’re not already on the East side of Boise. With gas prices the way they are I wouldn’t recommend that you should spend the extra $$$ or fuel to get there. The one thing this place does have the not many do is the nod from the Verace Pizza Napoletana Americas (VPN). What does this mean? I’m not a 100% sure but I do know you can taste the freshness of the food when you dine.(check out the web sites). I have eaten at another certified establishment in Vegas and was equally impressed with the fresh taste. The pizza sauce in particular.
On this day the company I’m with (my lovely wife and two beautiful daughters) means more than the food itself but it also gives me the opportunity to try multiple things in one visit.
Flatbread has a nice array of items on the menu from Pizza to Salad to Pasta, etc. We tried a bunch of them but all in all I thought it was a little over priced for a lunch. Most items will run around $9. I was impressed with the lunch option that allows you to mix two of most anything (half size) on the menu for $8.50. You have to stay away from anything but water to drink to keep it under $10 but they do give you more than a portion size of each item. I was also impressed that the kids menu includes the option for them to assemble their own pizza prior to cooking. This was a nice touch scoring high marks with the little ones.
My wife had the lasagna that was good…just…..kind of……, lacking flavor. Again, the sauce has a great fresh flavor but I would add more fresh herbs, cheeses and some spice to the sausage. My lunch was also good (sauce less pizza and Italian salad) but would order differently if dinning here again.
Now…..for the highlight of the afternoon…(drum roll)…………..the pepperoni that my wife and I picked from the pizza of the defenseless children. You can tell from the miss shaped pieces this is cut from a log of gastronomical delight. Extremely full of flavor but not to spicy and not to fatty. When cooked on the pizza it crisps and curls toward the sky at the edges secreting its delightful oils through out the rest of the pie. Obviously this is the type of thing that warms my heart. No, not the depriving my children of their meal. I now know that I need to order nothing fancy from this establishment. I’ll take a pepperoni pizza with more pepperoni and extra pepperoni!!! I wonder if I can get that with a side of Tums, a gas mask and a gym membership.
http://www.flatbreadpizza.com/
http://www.verapizzanapoletana.org/vpn/vpn_frames-index.htm
On this day the company I’m with (my lovely wife and two beautiful daughters) means more than the food itself but it also gives me the opportunity to try multiple things in one visit.
Flatbread has a nice array of items on the menu from Pizza to Salad to Pasta, etc. We tried a bunch of them but all in all I thought it was a little over priced for a lunch. Most items will run around $9. I was impressed with the lunch option that allows you to mix two of most anything (half size) on the menu for $8.50. You have to stay away from anything but water to drink to keep it under $10 but they do give you more than a portion size of each item. I was also impressed that the kids menu includes the option for them to assemble their own pizza prior to cooking. This was a nice touch scoring high marks with the little ones.
My wife had the lasagna that was good…just…..kind of……, lacking flavor. Again, the sauce has a great fresh flavor but I would add more fresh herbs, cheeses and some spice to the sausage. My lunch was also good (sauce less pizza and Italian salad) but would order differently if dinning here again.
Now…..for the highlight of the afternoon…(drum roll)…………..the pepperoni that my wife and I picked from the pizza of the defenseless children. You can tell from the miss shaped pieces this is cut from a log of gastronomical delight. Extremely full of flavor but not to spicy and not to fatty. When cooked on the pizza it crisps and curls toward the sky at the edges secreting its delightful oils through out the rest of the pie. Obviously this is the type of thing that warms my heart. No, not the depriving my children of their meal. I now know that I need to order nothing fancy from this establishment. I’ll take a pepperoni pizza with more pepperoni and extra pepperoni!!! I wonder if I can get that with a side of Tums, a gas mask and a gym membership.
http://www.flatbreadpizza.com/
http://www.verapizzanapoletana.org/vpn/vpn_frames-index.htm
Thursday, May 22, 2008
La Vie En Rose, Boise ID
Over the years the Historic IdanHa Hotel has had numerous restaurants occupy space at the street level of the building. It’s been a chop house, Brazilian steakhouse and many more. I think now that it has found a tenant that could rightfully occupy that space for years to come.
My only experience came yesterday for a work lunch but this will be short lived. I am looking forward to the next visit already and will most likely make a breakfast stop (highly recommended from trusted source).
It’s been quite a while since a menu has stumped me on choosing what to order. Everything on the lunch menu looks wonderful and makes you wish you could try one of everything. I decided to start with the seared Ahi and back this up with the Bacon Melt and Potato Salad. My dining partner selected the French Onion soup and Tuscany Crostinis.
Seared Ahi is a funny thing. No matter were you go it’s prepared a different way each time. This day, not a big fan. They describe it as, “Lavender crusted Ahi Loin on a bed of spring greens, served with sweet soy and wasabi spread”. I describe it as, “Tasteless crusted Ahi on a pinch of spring green, served with molasses soy and green tasteless spread no one in their right mind would call wasabi”. It was eatable but this is honestly the only time I have ever left Ahi uneaten.
The only other disappointment was the French onion soup. Actually disappointment would not be fare to say. It all got eaten but was reported to “not be the best in town”. Don’t be discouraged though. This is a place everyone should try at least twice. Once for breakfast and once for lunch or dinner.
If for some reason nothing on the menu is jumping out at you, try the Tuscany Crostinis or the Bacon Melt. Both are very satisfying and priced accordingly. Something about the combination of fresh tomatoes, sweet basil, fresh buffalo mozzarella and a balsamic drizzle that really gets my taste buds going. Add apple wood smoked bacon, ripe avocados and green onion to a couple slices or grilled whole wheat bread and it’s better than……nah not that…. but it’s really good.
So stay away from the Ahi, or not, but dive into the rest of this fabulous looking menu. http://www.lavieenrosebakery.com/
I will try to remember to do a follow up blog after I try breakfast. If I don’t get it done prior to your visit to La Vie En Rose please post your comments.
My only experience came yesterday for a work lunch but this will be short lived. I am looking forward to the next visit already and will most likely make a breakfast stop (highly recommended from trusted source).
It’s been quite a while since a menu has stumped me on choosing what to order. Everything on the lunch menu looks wonderful and makes you wish you could try one of everything. I decided to start with the seared Ahi and back this up with the Bacon Melt and Potato Salad. My dining partner selected the French Onion soup and Tuscany Crostinis.
Seared Ahi is a funny thing. No matter were you go it’s prepared a different way each time. This day, not a big fan. They describe it as, “Lavender crusted Ahi Loin on a bed of spring greens, served with sweet soy and wasabi spread”. I describe it as, “Tasteless crusted Ahi on a pinch of spring green, served with molasses soy and green tasteless spread no one in their right mind would call wasabi”. It was eatable but this is honestly the only time I have ever left Ahi uneaten.
The only other disappointment was the French onion soup. Actually disappointment would not be fare to say. It all got eaten but was reported to “not be the best in town”. Don’t be discouraged though. This is a place everyone should try at least twice. Once for breakfast and once for lunch or dinner.
If for some reason nothing on the menu is jumping out at you, try the Tuscany Crostinis or the Bacon Melt. Both are very satisfying and priced accordingly. Something about the combination of fresh tomatoes, sweet basil, fresh buffalo mozzarella and a balsamic drizzle that really gets my taste buds going. Add apple wood smoked bacon, ripe avocados and green onion to a couple slices or grilled whole wheat bread and it’s better than……nah not that…. but it’s really good.
So stay away from the Ahi, or not, but dive into the rest of this fabulous looking menu. http://www.lavieenrosebakery.com/
I will try to remember to do a follow up blog after I try breakfast. If I don’t get it done prior to your visit to La Vie En Rose please post your comments.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Alehouse Mothers Day
Weeks in advance!!! That’s when I started calling restaurants to attend Mothers Day brunch. I tried the two most famous brunch establishments in Eagle (Eagle Hills Golf Course and Banbury Golf Course) to find out they had been booked for some time. One just had a message for callers stating they are booked. When I called the other I detected a hint of laughter when I asked to make a reservation. Ok, lesson learned.
So it comes down to a last minute decision and I have no problem making reservations at the River Rock Ale House in Eagle. I have eaten there several times in the past for lunch, dinner and a Sunday brunch. Not overly impressed with most of their menu but do a recall a pleasant visit the last time we did brunch. So, of course I feel like a super hero that has just saved Mothers Day by finding a place to dine other than McDonald’s. Yeh, not the case when it’s all said and done.
On previous visits they have had an actual brunch menu. This day they have a buffet with and omelet bar. That’s ok right? No, not ok for $16.99 per adult, $9.99 per child. All pastries came from a box that most likely originated at Costco. I also expect that when fruit is served it is ripe and ready to eat. Not the case with the cantaloupe and other assorted fruits (Strawberries were good, tis the season). The rest of the buffet was the typical scrambled eggs, bacon, ham, etc. all of which was eatable. If my youngest daughter could talk she would tell you the bacon is to die for. Never seen a one year old eat a slab of bacon before. Glad the wife got that diaper!!! Happy Mothers Day!!!
Also included in the buffet were a nice omelet bar and your choice of coffee, juice or mimosa. Yep, that’s how you get your monies worth. Load mom up with liquor. I could swear I saw someone taking a cab home after breakfast.
All kidding aside we had a pleasant time but still felt this to be overpriced and will dine elsewhere next year. I plan to call Eagle Hills tomorrow for a reservation.
So it comes down to a last minute decision and I have no problem making reservations at the River Rock Ale House in Eagle. I have eaten there several times in the past for lunch, dinner and a Sunday brunch. Not overly impressed with most of their menu but do a recall a pleasant visit the last time we did brunch. So, of course I feel like a super hero that has just saved Mothers Day by finding a place to dine other than McDonald’s. Yeh, not the case when it’s all said and done.
On previous visits they have had an actual brunch menu. This day they have a buffet with and omelet bar. That’s ok right? No, not ok for $16.99 per adult, $9.99 per child. All pastries came from a box that most likely originated at Costco. I also expect that when fruit is served it is ripe and ready to eat. Not the case with the cantaloupe and other assorted fruits (Strawberries were good, tis the season). The rest of the buffet was the typical scrambled eggs, bacon, ham, etc. all of which was eatable. If my youngest daughter could talk she would tell you the bacon is to die for. Never seen a one year old eat a slab of bacon before. Glad the wife got that diaper!!! Happy Mothers Day!!!
Also included in the buffet were a nice omelet bar and your choice of coffee, juice or mimosa. Yep, that’s how you get your monies worth. Load mom up with liquor. I could swear I saw someone taking a cab home after breakfast.
All kidding aside we had a pleasant time but still felt this to be overpriced and will dine elsewhere next year. I plan to call Eagle Hills tomorrow for a reservation.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Star Café
Living out side of town several miles has its disadvantages when you’re in need of altering your dinner plans at home. Typically I have always thought of the Star Café as a place for a hearty breakfast or maybe one that could make your heart stop.
Saturday night is probably the first time to the Star Café in a good six months and the first time ever in memory for dinner. I used to see that they had a prime rib special on Saturday nights and often thought of stopping in. This night the special is Fish and Chips; I’m guessing it’s not flown in fresh.
They did have good menu selection including the favorites you grew up with; meatloaf, fried chicken, pork chops, mashed potatoes and gravy, etc. NOT like mom used to make. My mom used to make these types of meals almost daily when I was growing up. Clinging to those memories and looking at the meals being delivered to the other patrons I decided to get a burger and tots. My oldest daughter followed my lead with a corn dog (it actually looked green in color!!!) but the wife went for the fried chicken, mashed taters w/ gravy and canned corn. Not that the corn came in the can but this is defiantly the type of place that doesn’t serve fresh veggies. The burger wasn’t too bad, corn dog got eaten (she didn’t even get sick) and the wife split the chicken with the little one. The girls did strip the chicken of its oil abundant skin and found it to be eatable. Gravy was said to be floury, taters underneath were ok and the corn went untouched. Needles to say I would not rate this as a pleasant culinary experience but under the circumstances, it did in a pinch.
Once they start serving breakfast past 3pm; I may go back for dinner. Until then, I will visit for breakfast when feeling the need to raise my heart rate and cholesterol.
Saturday night is probably the first time to the Star Café in a good six months and the first time ever in memory for dinner. I used to see that they had a prime rib special on Saturday nights and often thought of stopping in. This night the special is Fish and Chips; I’m guessing it’s not flown in fresh.
They did have good menu selection including the favorites you grew up with; meatloaf, fried chicken, pork chops, mashed potatoes and gravy, etc. NOT like mom used to make. My mom used to make these types of meals almost daily when I was growing up. Clinging to those memories and looking at the meals being delivered to the other patrons I decided to get a burger and tots. My oldest daughter followed my lead with a corn dog (it actually looked green in color!!!) but the wife went for the fried chicken, mashed taters w/ gravy and canned corn. Not that the corn came in the can but this is defiantly the type of place that doesn’t serve fresh veggies. The burger wasn’t too bad, corn dog got eaten (she didn’t even get sick) and the wife split the chicken with the little one. The girls did strip the chicken of its oil abundant skin and found it to be eatable. Gravy was said to be floury, taters underneath were ok and the corn went untouched. Needles to say I would not rate this as a pleasant culinary experience but under the circumstances, it did in a pinch.
Once they start serving breakfast past 3pm; I may go back for dinner. Until then, I will visit for breakfast when feeling the need to raise my heart rate and cholesterol.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Chapala, Chapala, Chapala………….
Yeah you’ve seen them, been there done that but are they all the same? I think not.
The first Chapala restaurant I visited was in Hailey, ID close to 18 years ago. I assume it’s still there and remains number one. When I say number one I don’t mean it’s the best but I believe it to be the first in their existence. As you have or will notice on the marquis at the Chapala’s around the valley, they are all numbered in the order they opened their doors.
I can’t say that I have been to every location in the Chapala family but I bet I’ve been to most in Boise, Star, Nampa, Hailey and Garden City. They may all look the same, have the same menu and be owned by the same people but the food quality and presentation is quite different. I’m not referring to the common items such as tacos, burritos, enchiladas, etc. but the Arroz Con Pollo and the Carnitas just to name a couple. The differences are subtle in most of these items but the biggest and most noticeable is in the Salsa.
It’s obvious this delicious condiment is home made by each of the locations and not hard to understand why it’s so different. If I made a batch of salsa using the exact same recipe as you, I would bet they would taste different as well. My jalapeno may be hotter than yours and your onions may be sweeter than mine. But what really sets these places apart is consistency.
The most consistent and most visited by yours truly (close to my office) is the Garden City Location on Chinden. Good quality Mexican food served up fast and friendly. Best salsa in town, huh Jess? Make sure to try them for lunch and take advantage of the lunch menu pricing. Oh, and speak clearly when they ask you if you would like flour or corn tortillas. Nine times out of ten when ordering corn tortillas I get flour. I think it’s a game for the wait staff.
The first Chapala restaurant I visited was in Hailey, ID close to 18 years ago. I assume it’s still there and remains number one. When I say number one I don’t mean it’s the best but I believe it to be the first in their existence. As you have or will notice on the marquis at the Chapala’s around the valley, they are all numbered in the order they opened their doors.
I can’t say that I have been to every location in the Chapala family but I bet I’ve been to most in Boise, Star, Nampa, Hailey and Garden City. They may all look the same, have the same menu and be owned by the same people but the food quality and presentation is quite different. I’m not referring to the common items such as tacos, burritos, enchiladas, etc. but the Arroz Con Pollo and the Carnitas just to name a couple. The differences are subtle in most of these items but the biggest and most noticeable is in the Salsa.
It’s obvious this delicious condiment is home made by each of the locations and not hard to understand why it’s so different. If I made a batch of salsa using the exact same recipe as you, I would bet they would taste different as well. My jalapeno may be hotter than yours and your onions may be sweeter than mine. But what really sets these places apart is consistency.
The most consistent and most visited by yours truly (close to my office) is the Garden City Location on Chinden. Good quality Mexican food served up fast and friendly. Best salsa in town, huh Jess? Make sure to try them for lunch and take advantage of the lunch menu pricing. Oh, and speak clearly when they ask you if you would like flour or corn tortillas. Nine times out of ten when ordering corn tortillas I get flour. I think it’s a game for the wait staff.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Ahi Sushi in Eagle
If you haven’t seen or heard it’s there you should check it out. The wife and I went last weekend with a couple of good friends that we love to dine with and all enjoyed ourselves………pretty well.
It just wouldn’t be me if I didn’t have something to complain about. Why else would the wife dub me “the food snob”. First let’s start with the positives. I was impressed with the cleanliness although they just opened and that would be expected of every establishment serving food to the public. I was also impressed with the quality of the food. The rolls were very good (Skipper/Dragon) (Volcano Roll not so good) and the fish was very fresh, firm and cold. The price point was comparable to most and less expensive than top Sushi places in the valley. $140 for the four of us included the beer and enough Sushi to fill us all.
Now for the negatives. They had just an average wine selection and a way below average beer selection. Only two beers to choose from but the do have the large bottles as an option. Pricing on the drinks was average except for the wine that I felt was way over priced. Service was slow (typical of a new place), one brand of Sake and the music selection was weird to say the least. I can honestly say this is the only time I have heard Cyndi Lauper in a Sushi restaurant.
Next time you’re in Eagle check it out and judge for yourself. I’ll go back again. At least the next time I’ll know what to expect. Girl’s just wana have fu un……oh girls just wana have……..
It just wouldn’t be me if I didn’t have something to complain about. Why else would the wife dub me “the food snob”. First let’s start with the positives. I was impressed with the cleanliness although they just opened and that would be expected of every establishment serving food to the public. I was also impressed with the quality of the food. The rolls were very good (Skipper/Dragon) (Volcano Roll not so good) and the fish was very fresh, firm and cold. The price point was comparable to most and less expensive than top Sushi places in the valley. $140 for the four of us included the beer and enough Sushi to fill us all.
Now for the negatives. They had just an average wine selection and a way below average beer selection. Only two beers to choose from but the do have the large bottles as an option. Pricing on the drinks was average except for the wine that I felt was way over priced. Service was slow (typical of a new place), one brand of Sake and the music selection was weird to say the least. I can honestly say this is the only time I have heard Cyndi Lauper in a Sushi restaurant.
Next time you’re in Eagle check it out and judge for yourself. I’ll go back again. At least the next time I’ll know what to expect. Girl’s just wana have fu un……oh girls just wana have……..
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Tango's
Located on Orchard St just south of Emerald St. you’ll find a little place called Tango’s. Those of us that have been around for a while remember this place being one donut shop after another but I think it’s now safe to say this building has found its rightful owner. I first read about this place in the paper what seems to be an eternity ago and made a mental note to try it out. Several recommendations, mental relapses and substantial hair loss later I finally made it in to try the Argentinean Style fare.
Not many of you reading this (including me) know exactly what Argentinean Style food is but certainly everyone’s heard of an empanada? Yep, a deep fried pie filled with variations of meat, vegetables, cheese and probably the most famous, the desert pie. With over 30 empanadas to choose from don’t be afraid to ask questions to the friendly staff or the other patrons in line. Chances are the person in front of you has been there many times before and at $2 per pie, don’t be afraid to get a couple. Big eaters may want to get three.
Today being my first visit I decide to get the jalapeno and cheese empanada and the Tango (beef) sub with jalapenos and onions. Yeah, I know, the jalapenos will get revenge later. I was impressed with both and would be torn the next visit but will most likely try their other choices of empanadas. They also have beer!!!! Although I passed on the brew today I will keep in mind they have 6 or 7 types of beer to choose from including three of my favorites; Alaskans Amber, Fat Tire and Negra Modelo.
Take your $6 lunch allowance to Tango’s, try it out and post your comments here. With 30 to choose from; we could all use your help in narrowing down the field. Buen apetito!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuisine_of_Argentina
Not many of you reading this (including me) know exactly what Argentinean Style food is but certainly everyone’s heard of an empanada? Yep, a deep fried pie filled with variations of meat, vegetables, cheese and probably the most famous, the desert pie. With over 30 empanadas to choose from don’t be afraid to ask questions to the friendly staff or the other patrons in line. Chances are the person in front of you has been there many times before and at $2 per pie, don’t be afraid to get a couple. Big eaters may want to get three.
Today being my first visit I decide to get the jalapeno and cheese empanada and the Tango (beef) sub with jalapenos and onions. Yeah, I know, the jalapenos will get revenge later. I was impressed with both and would be torn the next visit but will most likely try their other choices of empanadas. They also have beer!!!! Although I passed on the brew today I will keep in mind they have 6 or 7 types of beer to choose from including three of my favorites; Alaskans Amber, Fat Tire and Negra Modelo.
Take your $6 lunch allowance to Tango’s, try it out and post your comments here. With 30 to choose from; we could all use your help in narrowing down the field. Buen apetito!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuisine_of_Argentina
Friday, March 7, 2008
Cool Hand Luke's
I saw while I was in Eagle the other day that there is going to be a Cool Hand Luke’s opening up sometime in the near future. Knowing this and also knowing that this is a California based chain I though while in Fresno this week I would investigate to see if it’s going to be worth while to visit their new location in Eagle, ID.
The establishment I visited is clean, the staff was nice, nice amount of menu selections but the blaring county music turned me off right off the get go. I listen to all types of music including country and have a tendency to play it loud now and again but also think a restaurant should not try to double as a dance club. I noticed patrons of this place struggling to have a conversation with the others sitting across or next to them. You should be able to enjoy your company and your meal.
As usual I am dining alone and elect to sit at the bar which is several decibels louder that the waiting and main dining area. I could hardly hear the bartender as he asked me what I would like to drink. As I peruse the menu I have immediately determined this restaurant is a cowboy version of an Outback or at least that’s what there shooting for. Menu looks to be very similar from the fried onion thing to the list of steaks and other items. I yelled to the bartender for a suggestion on what to eat and he obliged by guiding me to the A1 and butter brushed Skirt Steak with sautéed mushrooms. I opted for the salad instead of the soup and green beans instead of a starch. All dinners are served with personal sized pots of mediocre pot beans and some decent sourdough rolls. I get my beer right off the bat which is expected from any establishment but then within the next 5 minutes I get everything else. First the salad, beans and rolls; then the steak and green beans not 3 minutes after the salad hit the bar. As you may know by now this is one of my biggest pet peeves. By the time I finished with my salad the steak was cold and became very unappealing. The steak was undercooked which is usually a bonus for me but not with a skirt steak. The A1 and butter sauce scared me a little at first but became enjoyable when eating the meat. Green beans were cooked perfectly but surprisingly lacked flavor considering they had been cooked in onions and bacon.
Cool Hand Luke’s has got a long way to go to top the Ausie favorite but I will give it another chance after the floods of people try the one in Eagle. Ever notice how a new restaurant fills up for the first six months or so before it becomes just another place to eat?
The establishment I visited is clean, the staff was nice, nice amount of menu selections but the blaring county music turned me off right off the get go. I listen to all types of music including country and have a tendency to play it loud now and again but also think a restaurant should not try to double as a dance club. I noticed patrons of this place struggling to have a conversation with the others sitting across or next to them. You should be able to enjoy your company and your meal.
As usual I am dining alone and elect to sit at the bar which is several decibels louder that the waiting and main dining area. I could hardly hear the bartender as he asked me what I would like to drink. As I peruse the menu I have immediately determined this restaurant is a cowboy version of an Outback or at least that’s what there shooting for. Menu looks to be very similar from the fried onion thing to the list of steaks and other items. I yelled to the bartender for a suggestion on what to eat and he obliged by guiding me to the A1 and butter brushed Skirt Steak with sautéed mushrooms. I opted for the salad instead of the soup and green beans instead of a starch. All dinners are served with personal sized pots of mediocre pot beans and some decent sourdough rolls. I get my beer right off the bat which is expected from any establishment but then within the next 5 minutes I get everything else. First the salad, beans and rolls; then the steak and green beans not 3 minutes after the salad hit the bar. As you may know by now this is one of my biggest pet peeves. By the time I finished with my salad the steak was cold and became very unappealing. The steak was undercooked which is usually a bonus for me but not with a skirt steak. The A1 and butter sauce scared me a little at first but became enjoyable when eating the meat. Green beans were cooked perfectly but surprisingly lacked flavor considering they had been cooked in onions and bacon.
Cool Hand Luke’s has got a long way to go to top the Ausie favorite but I will give it another chance after the floods of people try the one in Eagle. Ever notice how a new restaurant fills up for the first six months or so before it becomes just another place to eat?
Monday, February 18, 2008
My Houston Blog
This is one city I haven’t been to in a while and never really look forward to going to. One of the last times I was in Houston my 2nd child was born while I was standing in line to get on the plane to come home. Yeh, I know.
While on this trip I didn’t have to worry about the wife giving birth but was worried about finding some new places to dine. I didn’t really succeed in doing this but found some new appreciation for a place I have been a couple of times in the past. I did get the opportunity to revisit Fogo de’ Chao (awesome – read previous blog from Dallas) but am refereeing to Sam’s Boat.
There are several of these locations in the Houston area and I have been to at least three at one time or another. The best part; they are all the same. The worst part; they are all the same.
I think the only time I have ordered off the main menu was the first time at Sam’s a couple of years ago. Since then a meal usually consists of a several appetizers and numerous buckets of beer. Yep, Shiner Bock.
So when visiting the Houston area and you looking for a local hang out to eat, drink, watch the big game or play bar games, stop by Sam’s Boat. Make sure to try the Shiner battered mushrooms, crab balls, crab and shrimp stuffed jalapenos, blackened hot wings and their signature dish, boiled craw fish (mud bugs). Two guys can make a meal out of these six but make sure to get six pounds of bugs. Tuesday’s the have a three pound special for $12.95. Oh yeah, don’t forget the 6 buckets of Shiner Bock. For some reason they classify Shiner as a import instead of domestic and charge you for it but to me, it’s worth it.
The only other place I went to was the Tilted Kilt. It was an alright place but was one of those Texas type places I have written about in the past. It’s all about the “scenery”. The wait staff is all dressed in short Scottish kilts with white shirts tied just below the chest, exposing their mid section while accenting their cleavage. Nope no men working here, but the few ladies with muffin tops give you the impression they are knockin’ down a few to many pints with the patrons. Great selection of draft beers but to many heavy foods on the menu (fish and chips, chicken fried steak, sausage plate, and a bunch of other things loaded with gravy). Holding true to this week’s pattern we order from the appetizer menu and are not disappointed with the huge nacho plate and basket of wings.
My last thought and probably the best part about this visit. I discovered another Texas brew that is well worth calories to drink 2 or 12.
ZiegenBock Amber is actually brewed by Anheuser-Busch but displays the Texas star on the bottle and is only distributed in Texas. It tastes more like a domestic dark beer than an amber but has a nice clean finish, less after tast than an amber and didn’t give me the hang over that I deserved. The task at hand, how do I get this back to Idaho?????
While on this trip I didn’t have to worry about the wife giving birth but was worried about finding some new places to dine. I didn’t really succeed in doing this but found some new appreciation for a place I have been a couple of times in the past. I did get the opportunity to revisit Fogo de’ Chao (awesome – read previous blog from Dallas) but am refereeing to Sam’s Boat.
There are several of these locations in the Houston area and I have been to at least three at one time or another. The best part; they are all the same. The worst part; they are all the same.
I think the only time I have ordered off the main menu was the first time at Sam’s a couple of years ago. Since then a meal usually consists of a several appetizers and numerous buckets of beer. Yep, Shiner Bock.
So when visiting the Houston area and you looking for a local hang out to eat, drink, watch the big game or play bar games, stop by Sam’s Boat. Make sure to try the Shiner battered mushrooms, crab balls, crab and shrimp stuffed jalapenos, blackened hot wings and their signature dish, boiled craw fish (mud bugs). Two guys can make a meal out of these six but make sure to get six pounds of bugs. Tuesday’s the have a three pound special for $12.95. Oh yeah, don’t forget the 6 buckets of Shiner Bock. For some reason they classify Shiner as a import instead of domestic and charge you for it but to me, it’s worth it.
The only other place I went to was the Tilted Kilt. It was an alright place but was one of those Texas type places I have written about in the past. It’s all about the “scenery”. The wait staff is all dressed in short Scottish kilts with white shirts tied just below the chest, exposing their mid section while accenting their cleavage. Nope no men working here, but the few ladies with muffin tops give you the impression they are knockin’ down a few to many pints with the patrons. Great selection of draft beers but to many heavy foods on the menu (fish and chips, chicken fried steak, sausage plate, and a bunch of other things loaded with gravy). Holding true to this week’s pattern we order from the appetizer menu and are not disappointed with the huge nacho plate and basket of wings.
My last thought and probably the best part about this visit. I discovered another Texas brew that is well worth calories to drink 2 or 12.
ZiegenBock Amber is actually brewed by Anheuser-Busch but displays the Texas star on the bottle and is only distributed in Texas. It tastes more like a domestic dark beer than an amber but has a nice clean finish, less after tast than an amber and didn’t give me the hang over that I deserved. The task at hand, how do I get this back to Idaho?????
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Sushi in Spokane
Kind of an impromptu trip to Spokane this week. I was supposed to be in Boise all week but hey, I’ve never had Sushi in Spokane before.
This time of the year traditionally yields the largest snowfall here in the North West and this year seems to be way above the norm. Currently there is 3 feet of snow here in the Spokane area and they apparently do not own a single piece of snow removal equipment. Might be a good idea to have a 4 wheel drive when making the visit.
Sushi.com is located on Main St in downtown Spokane. This is the first time I have ever been to a Sushi place that someone had not recommended prior to my visit. I used the Google Maps program on my cell phone and found 3 sushi restaurants all within a few blocks of one another. Why I picked this one? It’s called Sushi.com, it’s got to be good.
Yep, it’s good and I plan to return the next time I’m in town. Reasonably priced and quality to boot. Friendly staff and only a five minute wait for an order to go.
This time of the year traditionally yields the largest snowfall here in the North West and this year seems to be way above the norm. Currently there is 3 feet of snow here in the Spokane area and they apparently do not own a single piece of snow removal equipment. Might be a good idea to have a 4 wheel drive when making the visit.
Sushi.com is located on Main St in downtown Spokane. This is the first time I have ever been to a Sushi place that someone had not recommended prior to my visit. I used the Google Maps program on my cell phone and found 3 sushi restaurants all within a few blocks of one another. Why I picked this one? It’s called Sushi.com, it’s got to be good.
Yep, it’s good and I plan to return the next time I’m in town. Reasonably priced and quality to boot. Friendly staff and only a five minute wait for an order to go.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Mesquite, NV
I have been to mesquite on one other occasion but never had the opportunity to do much other work related stuff. This past week was quite different and I had a rather enjoyable time while there. As expected, I experienced 4 nights and 3 days of golfing, gambling and drinking. In this time I did manage to eat a couple of times.
Crown and Anchor, Las Vegas Nevada.
I flew into Las Vegas, rented a car and had lunch with my father in law and some of his cronies prior to picking up some of my buddies at the airport and heading to Mesquite. I have been to this establishment a couple of other times and enjoyed the experience then as well. The Crown and Anchor is a British Pub serving the traditional fare as well as the more Americanized. I of course had the fish and chips and enjoyed it rather well. The beer batter was crispy but not too oily and the fish flaky and moist. Another top seller with our group was the Cobb Salad which I have also had there before; piled high with all of the usual toppings and in a bowl that could double as a platter. Everything is reasonably priced and goes well with a pint of Guinness or three. TV’s surround the place with Soccer (football to the local Brits) on every set. Great place to be when they have a game on.
I was not that impressed with the dining in Mesquite however, this town is up and coming. Prior to now, the last time I was in Mesquite was a year or so ago. Much has changed here as I’m sure it will continue to change as more people inhabit this area.
Most of the restaurants are located in the Casinos but we did manage to grab some grub at Los Lupus. Between the eight of us that dined that afternoon we covered 8 separate things on the menu that each of us enjoyed very much. Not sure it was truly the quality of the food or that we hadn’t eaten all day but I plan to go back next year.
Other than that I was impressed with the Sports bar at the Oasis Casino but that was about it. The one good thing I did find is that most places we went are priced the way Las Vegas used to be. They would rather you spend your money gambling.
Golf course run down.
The Palms – Nice course to start on when you haven’t played in a while. Front 9 is more forgiving than the back but overall a nice course.
Oasis Palmer Course – Oasis have two courses both of which are challenging. We played the Palmer course and had a wonderful time but if you spray the ball of the tee box often, you may want to pass as this course is surrounded by houses.
Falcon Ridge – Last but certainly not least. WOW. This one is amazing. If you are planning to golf in Mesquite you must play this course. It really doesn’t play that long and is what some would call target golf. Leave your driver in the bag and you’ll save yourself a ton of strokes.
Crown and Anchor, Las Vegas Nevada.
I flew into Las Vegas, rented a car and had lunch with my father in law and some of his cronies prior to picking up some of my buddies at the airport and heading to Mesquite. I have been to this establishment a couple of other times and enjoyed the experience then as well. The Crown and Anchor is a British Pub serving the traditional fare as well as the more Americanized. I of course had the fish and chips and enjoyed it rather well. The beer batter was crispy but not too oily and the fish flaky and moist. Another top seller with our group was the Cobb Salad which I have also had there before; piled high with all of the usual toppings and in a bowl that could double as a platter. Everything is reasonably priced and goes well with a pint of Guinness or three. TV’s surround the place with Soccer (football to the local Brits) on every set. Great place to be when they have a game on.
I was not that impressed with the dining in Mesquite however, this town is up and coming. Prior to now, the last time I was in Mesquite was a year or so ago. Much has changed here as I’m sure it will continue to change as more people inhabit this area.
Most of the restaurants are located in the Casinos but we did manage to grab some grub at Los Lupus. Between the eight of us that dined that afternoon we covered 8 separate things on the menu that each of us enjoyed very much. Not sure it was truly the quality of the food or that we hadn’t eaten all day but I plan to go back next year.
Other than that I was impressed with the Sports bar at the Oasis Casino but that was about it. The one good thing I did find is that most places we went are priced the way Las Vegas used to be. They would rather you spend your money gambling.
Golf course run down.
The Palms – Nice course to start on when you haven’t played in a while. Front 9 is more forgiving than the back but overall a nice course.
Oasis Palmer Course – Oasis have two courses both of which are challenging. We played the Palmer course and had a wonderful time but if you spray the ball of the tee box often, you may want to pass as this course is surrounded by houses.
Falcon Ridge – Last but certainly not least. WOW. This one is amazing. If you are planning to golf in Mesquite you must play this course. It really doesn’t play that long and is what some would call target golf. Leave your driver in the bag and you’ll save yourself a ton of strokes.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Ever hear of Buck Owens?
Anyone who has listened to old country music or has seen “Hee Haw” certainly knows who Buck Owens was. What you may have not known is that he lived the majority of his life in Bakersfield, CA. For what reason I have no idea. Anyway, he has a restaurant in Bakersfield called the Crystal Palace. From talking with the locals, this place was his pride and joy. Yes, I am talking in past tense, he died a year or so ago.
Well, I got to tell you that tonight Buck is rolling over in his grave. Everyone that I’ve talked to about this place has nothing but good things to say about it. “It’s expensive buts it’s the best steak I’ve ever had”. There is no doubt it’s an expensive place to dine at an average of $27 per plate for a typical steak dinner but one of the things that surprised me the most was the lack of choices on the menu. Would you like steak or a hamburger? But getting back to the point I’m trying to make. The only thing that would get me back into this place is a free dinner on concert night. The one thing I will not tolerate at a restaurant is poor service. Especially when it takes place right after you’re seated. I couldn’t believe that the two of us sat there as long as we did. From the time the hostess sat us to the time we left was 15 minutes and in this time we were never once approached by the wait staff. Sorry Buck. Your “Palace” needs some help.
Well, I got to tell you that tonight Buck is rolling over in his grave. Everyone that I’ve talked to about this place has nothing but good things to say about it. “It’s expensive buts it’s the best steak I’ve ever had”. There is no doubt it’s an expensive place to dine at an average of $27 per plate for a typical steak dinner but one of the things that surprised me the most was the lack of choices on the menu. Would you like steak or a hamburger? But getting back to the point I’m trying to make. The only thing that would get me back into this place is a free dinner on concert night. The one thing I will not tolerate at a restaurant is poor service. Especially when it takes place right after you’re seated. I couldn’t believe that the two of us sat there as long as we did. From the time the hostess sat us to the time we left was 15 minutes and in this time we were never once approached by the wait staff. Sorry Buck. Your “Palace” needs some help.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Domo Arigato
I have heard of these kinds of travel days but not experienced one until today. My flight left Boise at 6am this morning for Sacramento by way of San Francisco. Due to fog in both California locations my flight is cancelled into Sac. I am put on the next flight but then it’s cancelled and so on. By this time it’s 1pm and doesn’t look like I’m going anywhere from San Francisco.
Apparently I’m geographically challenged when it comes to California cities. I have been working with this one gate agent all morning when she says, “You didn’t check any bags, why don’t you just get a rental and drive”? Huh, now there’s a novel idea. In less than two hours I have a rental and am checking into my hotel in Sacramento. Learn something new every day. A little geography and common sense goes a long way sometimes.
Long day getting to Sacramento and just want to pick something up and go back to the hotel for the premiere of American Idle?
“Thank you very much” to Arigato Sushi on Howe Ave. In the absence of a useful recommendation from the hotel staff I decide to drive around looking for the busiest Sushi place in town. I figure, the busier the place is the better the chance of me not getting sick. Arigato’s is my third stop and I’m a little put off by the 50% off all rolls and sushi but this place is packed. Never been to a sushi sale before, but all the more reason to load yourself up at this place. Don’t judge Arigato’s by the pictures in the menu. Everything I had tonight was well worth the fuel and a perfect ending to a long day.
Apparently I’m geographically challenged when it comes to California cities. I have been working with this one gate agent all morning when she says, “You didn’t check any bags, why don’t you just get a rental and drive”? Huh, now there’s a novel idea. In less than two hours I have a rental and am checking into my hotel in Sacramento. Learn something new every day. A little geography and common sense goes a long way sometimes.
Long day getting to Sacramento and just want to pick something up and go back to the hotel for the premiere of American Idle?
“Thank you very much” to Arigato Sushi on Howe Ave. In the absence of a useful recommendation from the hotel staff I decide to drive around looking for the busiest Sushi place in town. I figure, the busier the place is the better the chance of me not getting sick. Arigato’s is my third stop and I’m a little put off by the 50% off all rolls and sushi but this place is packed. Never been to a sushi sale before, but all the more reason to load yourself up at this place. Don’t judge Arigato’s by the pictures in the menu. Everything I had tonight was well worth the fuel and a perfect ending to a long day.
Jealous Much!!!!
Last weekend just went way to fast. I didn’t end up leaving until Friday morning and had to make the return on Sunday late afternoon. With that being said it’s probably a good thing it worked out the way that it did. It’s not hard to be in New Orleans and over eat every meal. My wife tells me a proper portion size for most foods is the size of your fist. If this is truly the case, let’s put fists to the meals consumed while in New Orleans.
My wife is attending a board meeting for the RBMA and apparently they have more money than most because everyone is staying at the Ritz Carlton on Canal St. No complaints from me, it’s nice to be waited on every once in a while. The unfortunate part of this is my first meal in town is at Ritz with 40 members and spouses of the RBMA board. You would think since most of the people that stay in hotels are from out of town they would have some Cajun fair. Not he case but the food was decent and an open bar. Two fists of New York Steak with 3 fingers of asparagus, one fist of Caesar salad and a so so rendition of a one fist coffee Crème Brule’. It all kind of taste like it came from a hotel if you know what I mean. Oh, I almost forgot the 6 fists of Vodka Tonic.
After dinner (this is where the fun begins) a large group of us head down to Bourbon Street. We make a brief stop at Pat O’Brien’s and the House of Blues but finally find a “resting spot” at the 544 Club. A lot of the bars in N.O. have live bands but on this night, this is the happen’ place. This is a great place for dancing, drinking, people watching or just enjoying the music. Word of caution; don’t get suckered into doing Jaeger shots with the shot waitress!!! This is of course does not apply to those single males. You could be the one making out with her in the corner of the bar after some married guy and his wife buy her half a dozen. Thirty some fists of miscellaneous tonics later we staggered back to the Ritz for some much needed sleep and detox.
Prior to making the trip I had huge plans for Saturday starting first thing in the morning with a nice work out in the gym followed by a relaxing breakfast overlooking the Mississippi river with a cup of coffee and plate of Beignets’ (French Donuts).
So I roll out of bed about the crack of noon feeling nauseous with a splitting headache. Needless to say, I did not even come close the original fairytale plan but am surprisingly hungry and in desperate need of some grease and caffeine.
I saw on the food network, an episode of “Throwdown with Bobby Flay” that featured the “Muffeletta” at a deli named Serio’s. A turn out Serio’s is 2 blocks from the hotel and I thinking this huge historic sandwich will be the cure. Serio’s claims to make the best Muffeletta I town but I may never know because for some reason they aren’t open on the weekends. Yeh, I know, doesn’t make sense to me either.
Lazy River Café is located in the JAX brewery building. The have a fairly simplistic menu featuring the traditional Cajun fare and reasonably priced for the area. Yes, I found my sandwich and pared it with an order of crawfish cakes and a pitcher of diet coke. The crawfish cakes came out within minutes as two giant stuffed rolls (2 fists each) stuffed with a mixture of crawfish, veggies and Cajun seasoning. Hit them with some Tabasco and your off and runnin’. No disappointment on the Muffeletta either. This 2 fist sandwich is filled with Italian meats, cheeses and olive salad served warm in herbed focaccia bread.
A couple hours later after walking around the French Quarter I muster up enough desire to eat again and decide to dine at my original choice for first thing that morning.
Café du Monde’ located at Jackson Square and is known world wide for their coffee and Beignets. Good thing because this is all they have and for good reason, they don’t need anything else. You could visit this place from open to close and they are packed. There is patio dinning, to go line and inside dinning. You will see the to go line at no less that 20 people and the patio dinning is always full. Do what we did and go inside. For some reason, regardless of the lengthily lines outside we walked right in and sat down. What to get? What else, coffee and an order of Beignets per person. The Beignets come three fists per order, hot and covered in powdered sugar. This is a must for all visitors to this area.
Later this same evening the RBMA group is at it again. The lot of us board a bus headed for a Cajun cooking class at the Savvy Gourmet (savvygourmet.com) located on Magazine St. Hands down this was the best experience of the trip. Not only did they provide expert tips on cooking the local cuisine but it’s also a chef shop where you can pick up a few miscellaneous tools you need for your own kitchen. This was a four course meal of sorts that started with a salad that included crab and shrimp tossed in Creole mustard dressing and finished with Bananas Foster that was to die for. Gumbo was the traditional dark rue type but I would have put more of everything in it. Chances are you won’t be in town with enough people to justify booking a class but make sure to stop by the Savvy Gourmet for Sunday brunch from 10:30 to 2:00.
Last but certainly not least was our choice for Sunday brunch prior to leaving for home. We had already done Café du Monde’ this morning (four fists of Beignets for me) and I really wasn’t that hungry. In hind site we should have gone back to the Savvy Gourmet but decided to try the local tradition and dine at Dickey Brennen’s Palace Café. The menu is nicely proportioned and everything smells and looks wonderful. Had I not already eaten this morning it might have been a better experience. Service was great and the food was good but for a $70 breakfast, no thanks. This is the kind of place to sip mimosas and enjoy the white glove service. Next time I’ll find the place with the special on red beers and Muffeletta.
My wife is attending a board meeting for the RBMA and apparently they have more money than most because everyone is staying at the Ritz Carlton on Canal St. No complaints from me, it’s nice to be waited on every once in a while. The unfortunate part of this is my first meal in town is at Ritz with 40 members and spouses of the RBMA board. You would think since most of the people that stay in hotels are from out of town they would have some Cajun fair. Not he case but the food was decent and an open bar. Two fists of New York Steak with 3 fingers of asparagus, one fist of Caesar salad and a so so rendition of a one fist coffee Crème Brule’. It all kind of taste like it came from a hotel if you know what I mean. Oh, I almost forgot the 6 fists of Vodka Tonic.
After dinner (this is where the fun begins) a large group of us head down to Bourbon Street. We make a brief stop at Pat O’Brien’s and the House of Blues but finally find a “resting spot” at the 544 Club. A lot of the bars in N.O. have live bands but on this night, this is the happen’ place. This is a great place for dancing, drinking, people watching or just enjoying the music. Word of caution; don’t get suckered into doing Jaeger shots with the shot waitress!!! This is of course does not apply to those single males. You could be the one making out with her in the corner of the bar after some married guy and his wife buy her half a dozen. Thirty some fists of miscellaneous tonics later we staggered back to the Ritz for some much needed sleep and detox.
Prior to making the trip I had huge plans for Saturday starting first thing in the morning with a nice work out in the gym followed by a relaxing breakfast overlooking the Mississippi river with a cup of coffee and plate of Beignets’ (French Donuts).
So I roll out of bed about the crack of noon feeling nauseous with a splitting headache. Needless to say, I did not even come close the original fairytale plan but am surprisingly hungry and in desperate need of some grease and caffeine.
I saw on the food network, an episode of “Throwdown with Bobby Flay” that featured the “Muffeletta” at a deli named Serio’s. A turn out Serio’s is 2 blocks from the hotel and I thinking this huge historic sandwich will be the cure. Serio’s claims to make the best Muffeletta I town but I may never know because for some reason they aren’t open on the weekends. Yeh, I know, doesn’t make sense to me either.
Lazy River Café is located in the JAX brewery building. The have a fairly simplistic menu featuring the traditional Cajun fare and reasonably priced for the area. Yes, I found my sandwich and pared it with an order of crawfish cakes and a pitcher of diet coke. The crawfish cakes came out within minutes as two giant stuffed rolls (2 fists each) stuffed with a mixture of crawfish, veggies and Cajun seasoning. Hit them with some Tabasco and your off and runnin’. No disappointment on the Muffeletta either. This 2 fist sandwich is filled with Italian meats, cheeses and olive salad served warm in herbed focaccia bread.
A couple hours later after walking around the French Quarter I muster up enough desire to eat again and decide to dine at my original choice for first thing that morning.
Café du Monde’ located at Jackson Square and is known world wide for their coffee and Beignets. Good thing because this is all they have and for good reason, they don’t need anything else. You could visit this place from open to close and they are packed. There is patio dinning, to go line and inside dinning. You will see the to go line at no less that 20 people and the patio dinning is always full. Do what we did and go inside. For some reason, regardless of the lengthily lines outside we walked right in and sat down. What to get? What else, coffee and an order of Beignets per person. The Beignets come three fists per order, hot and covered in powdered sugar. This is a must for all visitors to this area.
Later this same evening the RBMA group is at it again. The lot of us board a bus headed for a Cajun cooking class at the Savvy Gourmet (savvygourmet.com) located on Magazine St. Hands down this was the best experience of the trip. Not only did they provide expert tips on cooking the local cuisine but it’s also a chef shop where you can pick up a few miscellaneous tools you need for your own kitchen. This was a four course meal of sorts that started with a salad that included crab and shrimp tossed in Creole mustard dressing and finished with Bananas Foster that was to die for. Gumbo was the traditional dark rue type but I would have put more of everything in it. Chances are you won’t be in town with enough people to justify booking a class but make sure to stop by the Savvy Gourmet for Sunday brunch from 10:30 to 2:00.
Last but certainly not least was our choice for Sunday brunch prior to leaving for home. We had already done Café du Monde’ this morning (four fists of Beignets for me) and I really wasn’t that hungry. In hind site we should have gone back to the Savvy Gourmet but decided to try the local tradition and dine at Dickey Brennen’s Palace Café. The menu is nicely proportioned and everything smells and looks wonderful. Had I not already eaten this morning it might have been a better experience. Service was great and the food was good but for a $70 breakfast, no thanks. This is the kind of place to sip mimosas and enjoy the white glove service. Next time I’ll find the place with the special on red beers and Muffeletta.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Yes…..it’s a Buffet
On the eve of visiting one of the best cities in the nation for cuisine I chose today to slum it. Yes, I know. I have sworn off Chinese’s Buffets every since a buddy of mine (health inspector) told me I should, but when a place calls themselves a “Gourmet Buffet” it peaks my interest enough to at least try it out. Consider me to be the guy who tastes things for the king, you know, to see if it’s poisoned.
“Hopstick, a Gourmet Buffet” is located on the corner of 23rd and Main close to down town Boise. If you’re a local you may remember this location as a Denny’s about 10 years ago when those of us in our now early to mid thirties were known to “party it up” down town. Wow, does anyone even say that anymore? Did they ever? I better reserve my walker and cane for the next kegger.
Walking in the door it appears to look as most other buffet places would. Other than the patrons are not as large as those at “Chuck o Rama” and a bit younger than those at the “Golden Corral”. But how would I know, I’ve never even been to Golden Corral. Anyway, it’s a clean place (surprised?), reasonably priced, friendly staff and very diverse crowd.
The crowd is made up of a broad financial spectrum of people from the homeless to the politician. If you do find yourself next to the politician, just make sure it’s not Larry Craig and his happy feet trying to tap dance his way into your pants.
Buffets and certainly Chinese buffets are not for everyone but if you like Chinese food you need to try this place. There are more choices on the buffet than any one person can try in a single meal so I would suggest looking at the selections prior to loading your plate. Everything I had from the egg foo young to the sushi was very good. I would say this place could rival any of the Chinese restaurants I have been in from coast to coast. It would also be safe to say you won’t be hungry in an hour.
“Hopstick, a Gourmet Buffet” is located on the corner of 23rd and Main close to down town Boise. If you’re a local you may remember this location as a Denny’s about 10 years ago when those of us in our now early to mid thirties were known to “party it up” down town. Wow, does anyone even say that anymore? Did they ever? I better reserve my walker and cane for the next kegger.
Walking in the door it appears to look as most other buffet places would. Other than the patrons are not as large as those at “Chuck o Rama” and a bit younger than those at the “Golden Corral”. But how would I know, I’ve never even been to Golden Corral. Anyway, it’s a clean place (surprised?), reasonably priced, friendly staff and very diverse crowd.
The crowd is made up of a broad financial spectrum of people from the homeless to the politician. If you do find yourself next to the politician, just make sure it’s not Larry Craig and his happy feet trying to tap dance his way into your pants.
Buffets and certainly Chinese buffets are not for everyone but if you like Chinese food you need to try this place. There are more choices on the buffet than any one person can try in a single meal so I would suggest looking at the selections prior to loading your plate. Everything I had from the egg foo young to the sushi was very good. I would say this place could rival any of the Chinese restaurants I have been in from coast to coast. It would also be safe to say you won’t be hungry in an hour.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Las Vegas for Christmas
After being gone for 10 days I sit here watching football on New Years Day reminiscing about the food I over indulged in while being on vacation in Las Vegas. We stayed at the in laws house and ate most of our meals there. These meals where better than most of the meals we ate out but in this blog I will do my best to cover the off strip locations we dined at.
Lucille’s BBQ is located near the Green Valley Ranch Casino in Henderson, NV. It’s the first Sunday of the vacation and we have 9 adults and three children under 5 that are looking for some good BBQ. Two hundred dollars and two hours latter we have enough food at the house to feed half the neighborhood. The left overs seriously lasted all week. All of the sides where eatable but none other than the coleslaw would I order again. The list of meats included Chicken, Ribs, spicy sausage links and pulled pork. These were all good with the sausage and pulled pork topping the list. Ribs were overcooked and too smoky flavored for some of the family. My daughter tells me the ones I make her are better and I would have to agree with her. She may have to be a judge at the 2008 Rib Throwdown.
Panera Bread Co. is located not more than a few hundred feet from Lucille’s. I have been to Panera for coffee and a bagel in locations from Denver to the California coast and have mostly been please with their products. I really enjoy the Multi Grain Bagel with the veggie cream cheese and get this every time I’m there for breakfast. They also have a good choice of salads and sandwiches for lunch. Every Panera I have been to is the same which is a good and bad thing. It’s sometimes comforting to walk into a place an know what your getting into regardless of what town your in. I do have a gripe that they don’t have soy milk which is a great addition to coffee or a Chi Latte but their biggest problem is the lack of service. Apparently Panera’s employees are part of some kind of union and are only allowed to perform one function while in the work place. Most of the wait staff will be performing their daily duties around the store while the one person at the register helps the patrons in line no matter how long the line. Sometimes I’ve waited as many as five minutes just to order and other times (Denver, CO) have walked out of the store with out getting to place my order.
Claim Jumper, Henderson, NV. - This establishment is esthetically pleasing and I found the wait staff to be friendly and helpful. If you have never been to a Claim Jumper before be prepared for big food. The portions are the largest of any mainstream restaurants I have been to and lacking flavor as are most of these same type restaurants. How else do you cook the same thing for thousands of people nation wide? I did a lunch sized Cobb Salad and had no problem getting full. Salad was crisp and fresh with lots of the traditional type toppings. Too mush blue cheese but nice balsamic vinaigrette.
Spicy Pickle, Henderson, NV. – If you find yourself at the Emergency Care Facility located in the Lowe’s plaza area in Henderson for 3 hours waiting to see a doctor to see if your youngest daughter has an ear infection or not, look down the plaza a ways and you’ll see the Spicy Pickle. This was a great choice to help pass the time and feed the hunger. Had we known we had a three hour wait we most likely would have not eaten so fast. That can cause gas you know!!!! Anyway, this place was laid out nicely and had a simple menu the all looked very good. I had the wise guy sandwich that was your not so typical Italian sandwich. Perfect use of topping served on ciabatta bread (a little tough for my taste). The seven bean soup was salty but the kids’ cheese pizza was perfect for a 1 year old that hasn’t slept much, eaten much, being treated for pink eye, enough snot to keep Kleenex in business through 2008 and oh yeah, has an ear infection.
Firefly on Paradise, Las Vegas, NV. The wife and I finally get a night out for dinner and a show, with hotel (Hilton Honors Points), thanks to the Grandparents. First time in an over a year, yes…….we need to get out more!! The Firefly is a Tapas restaurant located in a strip mall, as is everything these days. For me Tapas is the perfect type of dining. I am the self proclaimed appetizer king and Tapas is basically nothing but appetizers. There are five of us for dinner on this night and they suggest 2-3 choices per person. This would mean you could almost try everything on the menu. Good menu selection all the way around from the stuffed dates to the not so traditional sliders. Watch out for the pricing, it’s easy to get carried away with dishes ranging from $4 to $12 per Tapas plate usually containing 2-5 pieces per plate. For the five of us with drinks came to $140. All of us left completely satisfied and remained presently full the rest of the night. With the exception of the wife and I that decided midnight would be the perfect time to eat a small pepperoni pizza and a pint of Haagen-Dazs while watching Southpark. Told you we didn’t get out much!!!
Ok, so I lied. This next one could be considered "on strip".
California Pizza Kitchen is located inside the Fashion Show Mall. I needed clothes and wasn’t quite ready to give up my alone time with the wife!! I was reluctant to make the stop but as any husband who would like to get some in 2008, I caved. I have been to the CPK more than once but usually in an airport to get something quick. I had no idea they had such an extensive menu. The wife didn’t care for the avocado egg rolls (more for me) but we both really enjoyed our BBQ chicken salads. Would I go back………you bet. More things to try. Too bad the airports don’t carry the full menu.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!! Looking forward to another wonderful year of food in 2008.
Lucille’s BBQ is located near the Green Valley Ranch Casino in Henderson, NV. It’s the first Sunday of the vacation and we have 9 adults and three children under 5 that are looking for some good BBQ. Two hundred dollars and two hours latter we have enough food at the house to feed half the neighborhood. The left overs seriously lasted all week. All of the sides where eatable but none other than the coleslaw would I order again. The list of meats included Chicken, Ribs, spicy sausage links and pulled pork. These were all good with the sausage and pulled pork topping the list. Ribs were overcooked and too smoky flavored for some of the family. My daughter tells me the ones I make her are better and I would have to agree with her. She may have to be a judge at the 2008 Rib Throwdown.
Panera Bread Co. is located not more than a few hundred feet from Lucille’s. I have been to Panera for coffee and a bagel in locations from Denver to the California coast and have mostly been please with their products. I really enjoy the Multi Grain Bagel with the veggie cream cheese and get this every time I’m there for breakfast. They also have a good choice of salads and sandwiches for lunch. Every Panera I have been to is the same which is a good and bad thing. It’s sometimes comforting to walk into a place an know what your getting into regardless of what town your in. I do have a gripe that they don’t have soy milk which is a great addition to coffee or a Chi Latte but their biggest problem is the lack of service. Apparently Panera’s employees are part of some kind of union and are only allowed to perform one function while in the work place. Most of the wait staff will be performing their daily duties around the store while the one person at the register helps the patrons in line no matter how long the line. Sometimes I’ve waited as many as five minutes just to order and other times (Denver, CO) have walked out of the store with out getting to place my order.
Claim Jumper, Henderson, NV. - This establishment is esthetically pleasing and I found the wait staff to be friendly and helpful. If you have never been to a Claim Jumper before be prepared for big food. The portions are the largest of any mainstream restaurants I have been to and lacking flavor as are most of these same type restaurants. How else do you cook the same thing for thousands of people nation wide? I did a lunch sized Cobb Salad and had no problem getting full. Salad was crisp and fresh with lots of the traditional type toppings. Too mush blue cheese but nice balsamic vinaigrette.
Spicy Pickle, Henderson, NV. – If you find yourself at the Emergency Care Facility located in the Lowe’s plaza area in Henderson for 3 hours waiting to see a doctor to see if your youngest daughter has an ear infection or not, look down the plaza a ways and you’ll see the Spicy Pickle. This was a great choice to help pass the time and feed the hunger. Had we known we had a three hour wait we most likely would have not eaten so fast. That can cause gas you know!!!! Anyway, this place was laid out nicely and had a simple menu the all looked very good. I had the wise guy sandwich that was your not so typical Italian sandwich. Perfect use of topping served on ciabatta bread (a little tough for my taste). The seven bean soup was salty but the kids’ cheese pizza was perfect for a 1 year old that hasn’t slept much, eaten much, being treated for pink eye, enough snot to keep Kleenex in business through 2008 and oh yeah, has an ear infection.
Firefly on Paradise, Las Vegas, NV. The wife and I finally get a night out for dinner and a show, with hotel (Hilton Honors Points), thanks to the Grandparents. First time in an over a year, yes…….we need to get out more!! The Firefly is a Tapas restaurant located in a strip mall, as is everything these days. For me Tapas is the perfect type of dining. I am the self proclaimed appetizer king and Tapas is basically nothing but appetizers. There are five of us for dinner on this night and they suggest 2-3 choices per person. This would mean you could almost try everything on the menu. Good menu selection all the way around from the stuffed dates to the not so traditional sliders. Watch out for the pricing, it’s easy to get carried away with dishes ranging from $4 to $12 per Tapas plate usually containing 2-5 pieces per plate. For the five of us with drinks came to $140. All of us left completely satisfied and remained presently full the rest of the night. With the exception of the wife and I that decided midnight would be the perfect time to eat a small pepperoni pizza and a pint of Haagen-Dazs while watching Southpark. Told you we didn’t get out much!!!
Ok, so I lied. This next one could be considered "on strip".
California Pizza Kitchen is located inside the Fashion Show Mall. I needed clothes and wasn’t quite ready to give up my alone time with the wife!! I was reluctant to make the stop but as any husband who would like to get some in 2008, I caved. I have been to the CPK more than once but usually in an airport to get something quick. I had no idea they had such an extensive menu. The wife didn’t care for the avocado egg rolls (more for me) but we both really enjoyed our BBQ chicken salads. Would I go back………you bet. More things to try. Too bad the airports don’t carry the full menu.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!! Looking forward to another wonderful year of food in 2008.
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