Yummy Portland!!!

Yes it’s been a long time, and yes, I am going to try and be better about posting blogs. I have run into a few places that are definitely worthy of some words, and with the new job; I will travel a five state region in the pacific northwest almost every week.

My goal has always been to find off the beaten path places to blog about, and that will not change. Let’s take a look at a recent trip to Portland, OR.

I have been in the Portland area several times in the last few years and thought I was up the best places to dine. Wrong, I did know of a few, but on the last trip I got some recommendations from old high school friends and some new friends, all local to the Portland area. THANK YOU for exposing me to what I was missing in Portland. What a fabulous place to eat, drink, shop, play........ We never had a bad meal while there but below is what stuck out the most!!

Voodoo Donuts

Our walk 6 or 7 blocks from our hotel and back didn’t cancel the calorie intake we ingested at this highly publicized donut shop. Anyone who has watched The Food Network has likely seen this unique morning marvel and the crazy creations they spin out. Our choices consisted of a foursome of the somewhat less adventurous type. Buttermilk Bar (long time Favorite), Apple Fritter (Classic), Mexican Hot Chocolate and Maple Bar w/ bacon (two strips on top). Yep, you can’t go wrong with adding bacon to it!!! The only thing I like more than bacon is bacon wrapped bacon. The first two were nothing to write home about, I’ve had better. For the second half, this is what Voodoo is founded on and for good reason. Make a crazy creation that taste great and it will keep them lined out the door and coming back from more. Only change I would make to the Maple Bar is to crumble the bacon to insure that each bite includes some fatty salty goodness!!! Make sure to get your spot in line but it might be a good idea to check out the web site prior to standing at the counter muttering uhhhh, uhhhh, uhhhh. $

www.voodoodoughnut.com

Portland City Grill

A Happy Hour must. Located downtown at 111 SW 5th Ave. on the 30th Floor your view is a guarantee. I suggest sitting close to the piano if you can, you will still get a great view of the city. The reasonably priced Happy Hour menu is a good reason to go, but don’t think of this establishment as just a trendy place to get started. Stay a while and turn your trip into an attractive dinner setting. Great selection of fresh fish and seafood, nice wine list and comfortable environment. (People Watching) $$$$ www.portlandcitygrill.com

Time For a Beer, I think so!!

Any city that has a “Brewers District” is a must stay and play for me. Most of us here in the northwest are familiar with Deschutes and Rogue as top Micro beer brands. No reason to not venture into each of these locations while in Portland, especially since there blocks apart. Still within walking distance of any hotel in the downtown area (I prefer the walk down-cab back method vs. the stagger back), these beer joints provide tasty beer flights, lunch, snacks or dinner. Dessert Beer, what a perfect end to your visit. Stop by the Rogue for a “snickers”, a version o f the black and tan or maybe tan and tan. Hazelnut Brown Nectar and Chocolate Stout!!!

Not a fan of these Micro’s but still enjoy a good brew? GO TO HENRY’s 12^th St Tavern. With an enormous list of draft (100+) and bottled beer your sure to find one or more to your liking. Don’t be fooled, this is not just the holy grail of beer. Check out their stellar menu for apps, lunch or dinner!! $$

www.rogue.com

www.deschutesbrewery.com

www.henrystavern.com

Café Mingo (aka - Bar Mingo)

Saving the best for last of course! Our new friends met us in the Pearl District of Portland for our last evening in the city. We arrived at this quaint little place (Café Mingo) to find no more than a half dozen tables, additional space in the bar section (Bar Mingo), and of course everything packed and a wait list 45 minutes to an hour long. No worries!! Plenty of night life in “The Pearl”, give them your cell number and head down the street for a pre-dinner cocktail and appetizer.

Now, those who have read a blog or two and hence the, “snob”, in the blog name you should know I’m not exactly easy to please. The staff at Café Mingo had no trouble. Great company, nice wine and a dinner that will likely never leave my all time top 5!! Most always a good idea to order the special at a place like this. Lamb Risotto!!! I savored every bite. One more glass of wine and I would have licked the plate clean. I have only recently began to enjoy lamb and this night was by far the best dish yet. Braised in a mirepoix, green olives, garlic, shallots, tomatoes, rich stock, finished with red wine and served in a velvety parmesan risotto. I salivate still today!! Everyone enjoyed their meal and this is certainly a place I won’t hesitate to visit each time I’m in town. $$$ www.barmingonw.com

There are so many more places in the Portland area I am dying to try. Luckily I will be back at least another half dozen times by the end of the year!! What’s your favorite place??

P.S. – Stop at Oregon Wines on Broadway for a wine flight or two. Oregon gives good wine!! www.oregonwinesonbroadway.com

Bill's Cafe'

I have been avoiding this for way too long. I promised myself early this year that I would be better!! Obviously that didn’t happen.

After being in the San Jose area for the past 4 months and eating out at least 2 meals a day, I finally found someplace worth blogging about. Someplace you should schedule a visit to next time you’re in town.

Bill’s Café has three locations in San Jose. I can only imagine what the other locations are like as I now frequent the location at The Alameda. I mostly go for lunch but have enjoyed breakfast a time or two as well.

Looking at the breakfast menu you will quickly see that this is “THE” place for breakfast. All your breakfast favorites plus other creations that will make you drool just reading about them. I myself love a good Eggs Benedict. The only problem at Bill’s is that there are too many to choose from. Traditional, California, Crab Cake….the list goes on!! Oh, you caught that too. Yep, someone at your table must order the Crab Cake Benedict but don’t be surprised if once they taste it they no longer want to share.

Lunch menu looks to be like your typical café type food. Burgers, Salads, Sandwiches, etc. I have yet to order a burger but have seen many devoured by the other patrons. I usually get one of the many salads they have to choose from. Each salad is fresh as can be and most are accompanied by a warm garlic parmesan breadstick, cup of soup and homemade dressing of your choice. I don’t get too excited about salad. A really good homemade dressing might raise an eyebrow but soup, this place has got soup that will make your toes curl. Each visit I try a cup of the Soup du Jour.
“Excuse me miss, what’s the Soup du Jour?? It’s the soup of the day!! Um, that sounds good, I’ll have that”!!(classic dumb and dumber)
Chicken Tortellini, Minestrone, Clam Chowder, Crab Bisque…….all are crafted to perfection. I have honestly not had soup this good……EVER!!!!

My only disappointment with this whole thing is that I have been in the area this long and only discovered this culinary delight weeks ago!! $$

http://www.billscafe.com/

When in San Diego.......

Finally!!! I have something to write about. Wow, what a great trip to San Diego. I can't say much for the food at the Zoo or at Sea World but the Gaslamp District of downtown San Diego is a must visit to anyone in the area. I can't wait for the next opportunity to take the family again.

Rock Bottom Brewery - Gaslamp Quarter

A lot like any other Micro Brewery/eatery you have been to in your home town or while on the road. Good food options on the menu from start to finish and even on the kids menu. Beer is wonderful!!! I had the Nut brown but would almost call it a Stout. Nice nutty flavor with hints of carmel and an almost smokey hops quality. We all enjoyed our food as well. Nothing special about the Hot Wings (just wings) but I did enjoy my Seared Ahi over rice with Asian vegetables. The sauce had a bit too much soy sauce in it for my taste but the Ahi was cooked perfectly. $$$

El Fandango - Old Town

DO NOT GO HERE!!! What a complete waist of 2 hours. Yep, that's how long it took to get our cold tasteless food and get out of there. Service was horrible as best. I didn't even tip!!! I'm not a big tipper anyway but to not get a tip.......ouch!!! I usually would have said something but I could tell it wouldn't have done any good. This place it a tourist trap of the worst kind. Unsuspecting patrons such as ourselves are drawn by the inviting outside patio only to be struck down and bludgeoned by the lack of service and food quality. Had we not been there with great friends it would have been a total loss. :(

Pizzeria Luigi - 25th St.

Ahh yes. A New York Style delight. You may have seen this place featured on the Food Network - Diners, Drive In's and Dives. Large, thin sliced Pizza, delicious Pizza. Some of the best pizza I have had anywhere. Perfect crunchy yet chewy crust with the perfect amount of toppings but what holds it all together is the sauce. Nice ripe and fresh tomato flavor without being too runny or thick. Try the spinach, mushroom and ricotta pie. It pairs nicely with an organic stout from the beer case. $

Cheese Shop - Gaslamp District

A must for breakfast. I hear the lunch is fabulous as well. A quaint little shop on the west side of the district serving breakfast and lunch all day. All my girls enjoyed there food but I inhaled my corned beef hash. The only other I would compare is from the deli at New York New York in Vegas. Nice crust on the outside and very moist flavorful on the inside. I'll be back. $$

Chianti Restaurant - Gaslamp District

I am saving the best for last. It's been a very long time that I can remember such a great dining experience. Located 5th St. in the heart of the Gaslamp District, Chianti Restaurant is sure to please your appetite for Italian dinning. Great wine list consisting of several local wines as well as Italian wines. All items are Ala carte but reasonably priced for the quality and quantity of food. We ordered two of the salads including a Cesar, Cioppino, Lobster Ravioli and Lasagna. Salads were great, Cioppino was fabulous once I added a teaspoon of red pepper flakes and the girls had no complaints about the Ravioli and Lasagna. Great place to take well behaved children or adults. $$$$

Tight Budget?? Try Big Batch Cooking!!!

Today is the day I will officially put the original purpose of this blog on a hopefully temporary hiatus. In addition to trying some new recipes and changing a few of the old ones I am on a quest to discover great meals on a budget. I'll be doing some big batch cooking that will taste wonderful for about $1 - $2 per serving. Where to start?????

"A large stock pot". At Christmas time I found a 20 quart stock pot at Macy's that was originally $129.99. It was reduce by 50%, then reduce again and again and an additional $10 taken at the register. I walked out the door with this pot for $29.99. Deal of the century if you ask me. I have used it three times already with excellent results. Chili, BBQ sauce and Spaghetti.

Everyone knows that spaghetti is one of the least expensive meals a person can make. Costco or Sam's Club is the perfect place to start for this. Get your meat, pasta and sauce making materials in large quantities and cut your cost significantly. I estimate the batch of sauce I made yielded 36 servings of spaghetti sauce for about $1.41 per serving. Keep in mind that this includes 6 pounds of homemade meatballs, 2 pounds of Italian sausage and 1 pound of peperoni sticks. I never said it was low cholesterol but it does taste fabulous. Add some pasta and homemade focaccia bread to this and your still well under $2 per serving.

Stews, Chili, non cream based soup, etc. All can be done in this same manner and freeze extremely well. The best way I have found to freeze them is to place the cooled soup, sauce, etc. into a 1 gallon Ziploc freezer bag by desired serving size and gently pushing the air out of the bag, zip it closed. Lay flat in your freezer in a shallow box (a shirt box works well) until frozen. After a couple of hours you will be able to store upright to save space in your freezer. It will keep for months and help stretch you monthly food budget.

As I mentioned, I have done Chili and Spaghetti sauce so far. I have also prepared and frozen a large ham and have plans for a turkey today. These can be divided into portions for soups, sandwiches or future meals and frozen for months as well. Take the time to prepare in advance and not only save time latter but you will also save money.

Upcoming meal preparations; Carnitas, Lasagna, Bahn Mi Pork, Tacos and Empanadas.

Home for a while!!!!

One thing about loosing your job is you don't travel much anymore. Go figure. Yep, as of December 19, 2008 the doors of my company closed leaving many good people out of a job and spending much more time at home. One of these has turned out to be good and the other obviously not so good. I love getting to spend time at home with my girls doing homework, playing dolls and cooking. As you may have gathered from past blogs, I love to cook as much or more than I love to eat. I have created some new recipes, redefined some old ones and tried several new ones. For the next month or so you may see more recipes on the blog than restaurant reviews.
So, for all you cooks out there, send me your favorite recipes; I'll try them out and let you know what I think. Or just watch for recipes I post and you can do the same. Happy New Year!!!

Pink’s and Randy’s

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/

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.

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/

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. @$%#!!!

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.

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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.

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.

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/

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/

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.

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

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.

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.

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.