TAM O’ SHANTER … “Tavern Fare & Traditional Heritage!”

Posted on by
Twitt

Along Los Feliz Boulevard in the Glendale area of Los Angeles sits a tavern well known for its customer loyalty, gracious service, and flavorsome Scottish favorites. If you’re having a hankering for a bit of European fare (and maybe an ale or two), Tam O’ Shanter is where you need to be. Celebrating 91 years of successful business this year, Tam O’ Shanter is not just the oldest restaurant in Los Angeles, but it is now owned by the Lawry’s Restaurants, Inc. And if those facts aren’t enough to convince you of the reputation of this eatery, then take a look and see why we recommend it to our readers below. Serving up palatable plates, divine sandwiches, and even a tempting Happy Hour weekdays from 4 PM to 7 PM in their tavern, you will find some of the tastiest and best prepared classic European fare around.

Tam O' Shanter

The restaurant’s tutor-style exterior transports patrons to the classic era of British taverns, while inside, an impressive Scottish tartan collection lines the walls. Eclectic European décor from old world flags to a period-appropriate uniformed staff to the tavernesque bar when you enter this humble establishment will make you think you’re really somewhere else. Old friends gather at the bar for their daily brew, and cordial servers are helpful and efficiently take care to make sure you feel at home. The old-style quaint ambiance is an attraction all to itself. Dimly lit inside, your eyes will have to adjust for a moment. But as they do, you’ll be pleased that you decided to stop by.

Tam O' Shanter1

As our readers know, we are not beer connoisseurs. Therefore, we opted for a rum cocktail, a Cape Cod, and a Greyhound upon our arrival. (Something different for me, as I usually only drink Greyhounds when I’m indulging in oysters on the half shell!). The semi-private booth-like area we chose to occupy while at the restaurant was composed of wood-paneled walls, European memorabilia hanging from a wall over our table, and two large extremely comfortable leather wingback chairs, which was unique and unlike anything we’d ever seen before. The change of scenery and pace was nice. And we were prepared to settle in and take some time to peruse the menu as well as enjoy some time together after a long day of meetings.

Tam O' Shanter2

Tam O Shanter is filled with interesting and intriguing articles of Scottish heritage, old world flags hanging proudly overhead, dark-beamed ceilings, and eclectic light fixtures everywhere you look. Tables and chairs are well worn with centuries of filled dining rooms, but exude a charm and are full of character. There is a sense of friendship and family and a genuine love for one another here. That much we definitely felt while there. Not many establishments possess that sense. But this one certainly does.

Tam O' Shanter3

There are several dining rooms inside Tam O’ Shanter. The perception is that of being on a huge Scottish home of years gone by. Huge brick fireplaces become conversation pieces during dinners among friends and family, while a glassed-in area allows for natural light to flow inside during the day. Then there’s the tavern. Upon entering the restaurant, you will come upon the bar and lounge, where an enjoyable Ale & Sandwich Bar menu provides items you wouldn’t normally expect.

Tam O' Shanter4

Fish & Chips

 Above, we started with the FIsh & Chips selection from the Ale & Sandwich Bar menu. Though not huge fried food lovers, my husband couldn’t resist getting it. And rightfully so, as it turned out. The tender flaky local Cod inside a perfectly battered light crisp exterior was extremely gratifying. A touch of tartar sauce and a squeeze of lemon with each bite was just perfect. The hand-cut fries paired nicely with this presentation.

Tam O' Shanter5

Beef Brisket Sandwich With Potato Salad & Peanut Slaw

It had been a long time since my husband and I have enjoyed a wonderful beef brisket dinner. We were reminded of that when we took our first bite of Tam O’ Shanter’s Beef Brisket Sandwich. Succulent, fall-off-the-sandwich incredible!

2013-05-20 002

Hand-Carved Corned Beef Sandwich

The corned beef sandwich from the Ale & Sandwich Bar is a flavor-filled satisfaction in between two soft slices of rye bread. Other breads are available, but for us, rye bread just GOES with corned beef. We added a touch of Thousand Island dressing for an added zing.

2013-05-20 0021

Mac & Cheese

We also tried the Mac & Cheese side, which was amply portioned for two people. The flavors of smoked Gouda and farmhouse Cheddar with herbed bread crumbs baked on top created a creamy, crisp, and filling experience that didn’t remain for long after we took our first few bites. Definitely one of our top five Mac & Cheese dishes anywhere that we’ve relished in for some time.

Along with a sensational list of hand-carved sandwiches prepared fresh in front of your eyes at the Ale & Sandwich Bar, and discounted Happy Hour prices on well drinks and select ales, Tam O’ Shanter also inspires with live music on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 8 PM. Great British fare, lots of options on an extensive menu, hand-carved savory sandwiches prepared fresh and made to order, plus live entertainment to keep your toe tapping and a smile on your face.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Consisting of dimly-lit rooms, a popular tavern and sandwich bar with wood-paneled walls and eclectic homage to European style and Scottish and Irish heritage hanging on the walls of the eatery, a charm and enchanting character is pronounced here.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Some of the most amazing Fish & Chips we’ve ever experienced, a beef brisket sandwich to rival any of the brisket dishes we’ve enjoyed in the past, flavorsome cocktails from the tavern, and a menu that stands out amongst the crowd in terms of traditional Scottish, Irish, and European fare.
  • LOCATION: Tam O’ Shanter is located in the Glendale area of Los Angeles at 2980 Los Feliz Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90039.
  • HOURS: Tam O’ Shanter’s Ale & Sandwich Bar is available daily from 11 AM to 12 AM, with Happy Hour on select libation and edibles weekdays from 4 PM until 7 PM, and Late-Night Happy Hours on Sundays through Thursdays from 9 PM to 11 PM. Dinner is available in the main restaurant Monday through Thursday from 5 PM to 9 PM, Fridays from 5 PM until 10 PM, Saturdays from 4 PM to 10 PM, and Sundays from 4 PM to 9 PM. Sunday brunch is served 10:30 AM until 2:30 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Efficient and friendly servers will excel in delighting your requests and ensuring that guests are comfortable and happy.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Fairly priced for the quality of the cuisine and enjoyable unique ambiance.
  • CORKAGE FEE: The corkage fee at Tam O’ Shanter is $15 per 750mL bottle. That charge is waived if you purchase a bottle off the restaurant’s wine list.
  • PARKING: Starting at 5 PM, the valet service begins. Before then, however, there is ample complimentary parking in the spacious parking lot.
  • PRICING: Weekdays from 4 PM to 7 PM, Tam O’Shanter offers discounted well drinks and selected ales in the bar and Ale & Sandwich Bar areas. We sipped on a Cape Cod, a Greyhound, and a Rum & Coke all for just $5 apiece during Happy Hour at the bar. The side of Mac & Cheese was priced at $5 on the Ale & Sandwich Bar lunch menu (normally $7 after 5 PM), while the hand-carved Corned Beef Sandwich was offered at $12. The Beef Brisket Sandwich was just a dollar more at $13. Sandwiches from the Ale & Sandwich Bar also come with a selection of daily sides. We enjoyed the peanut coleslaw and Tam O’ Shanter’s popular potato salad. The Fish & Chips offering is available on the restaurant’s dinner menu for $21.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

 

 

 

CHARLIE PALMER STEAK @ FOUR SEASONS HOTEL LAS VEGAS… “Traditional American Favorites On The Vegas Strip!”

Posted on by
Reply
Twitt

Since 1999, Charlie Palmer’s steakhouse within the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas has been providing new and returning patrons with classic inspired dishes, elegant surroundings, and an unending list of reasons to return again and again. Traditional American fare such as mouthwatering steaks, seafood platters, fresh sashimi presentations, hand-tossed crisp salads, and tender chicken and savory fish offerings enchant diners with flavor, delight and intrigue.

Charlie Palmer

Dramatic deep red upholstered seating creates a visual fantasy against a backdrop of soothing subtle earth tones, a contemporary designed flooring design, and the spacious main dining room enhanced by a black baby grand piano and a live jazz ensemble, which adds to the sophisticated allure of the establishment.

In addition to the main menu, the Cut Of The Week menu fulfilled my cravings for a flavor packed meal in a romantic and cozy environment, which included a starter, two family-style sides, a main course, and a sweet something to polish the presentation off. The menu changes on a weekly basis, and never fails to impress. Our last visit to Charlie Palmer Steak, I delighted in the Cut Of The Week menu, while my husband decided to try something from the main menu…

Charlie Palmer1

A pleasant bread offering was served in an attractive basket, while modern lamps on each table created a dimmed light that gently cascaded across the dinner table. A small silver plate with sweet cream butter was placed beside the cornbread, sourdough and olive breads, and the Cut Of The Week menu tempted me with its very reasonably priced breakdown of savory proposals.

INSIDER’S TIP: The Cut Of The Week menu includes “bottomless wine pairings” with each course, so keep that in mind. I enjoyed several glasses of paired vintages with each course, and couldn’t have been more pleased with the arrangement. The wines were acceptable, and paired nicely with each item.

Charlie Palmer2

 Prosciutto Wrapped Romaine Hearts

The first course I received from the Cut Of The Week menu was the Prosciutto Wrapped Romaine Hearts. Accompanied by marinated white anchovies and a time-honored Caesar dressing, this portion of the menu sequence delivered all the flavors of a salad one could require for a satisfied palate. The marinated white anchovies provided a salty and tangy flavor, while the creamy Caesar dressing coated the delicately wrapped greens. A burst of fresh garden flavor was a lovely addition with the red and yellow cherry tomatoes, while the crunch of crisp croutons atop this colorful creation visually stunned. Paired with a 2011 Italian Ca del’ Sarto Pinot Grigio, this starter of three courses was a pleasing experience.

Charlie Palmer3

Australian Wagyu Strip Steak

My main course was presented in a timely manner along with my husband’s choice of entrees. I was impressed with the  Australian Wagyu Strip Steak. The bone marrow flan was creamy and perfectly seasoned, while the port wine jus sufficiently enhanced the tender beef heightening it to another level of flavor altogether. This dish was served with  a 2010 French Cotes-du-Rhone Grenache Blend that complimented the contents of the dish quite nicely.

Charlie Palmer4

Delta Asparagus With Citrus Marinade & Truffled Potato Pave

Two family-style sides were included in my Cut Of The Week menu. We were presented with decently-sized portions of citrus-marinated asparagus as well as a layered potato pave that was flavorsome and memorable. Enough for two or three at the table, these side options were a savory addition to the tasting menu I selected.

Charlie Palmer5

Grilled Hawaiian Swordfish

My husband elected to try something from the main menu, and chose the Grilled Hawaiian Swordfish entree. This “steak-of-all-fish” was excellently grilled and prepared with a butternut squash risotto, then crowned with a foi gras raviolo. I tried a couple of bites of this beautifully prepared item, and I can understand why my husband tried to shoo me away. The flaky and tender meat of the swordfish combined with bites of the creamy risotto joined by sweet butternut squash and a meaty foi gras raviolo heightened our visual and taste perception as we enjoyed every bite.

Charlie Palmer6

Apple Tart , Chocolate Peanut Butter Bar & Cara Cara Orange Infused Crème Brulee

The restaurant pulled out all the stops for us during dessert. Instead of the printed third course Cut Of The Week Macarpone Carrot Cheese Cake, the kitchen sent out three sinful dessert displays for us to enjoy. The first, an Apple Tart topped with vanilla ice cream that was a delightful contrast to the warm pastry filled with hot sliced apples. An intriguing version of the traditional apple pie, this dessert performed magnificently on the flavor front with the solid natural sweetness of the apples and the simple crisp of the puff pastry surrounding it. Completely different from the Apple Puff Pastry, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Bar was savory and amped up with more sinfulness by adding a peanut butter anglais and dulce de leche ice cream. A flavor sensation, that one didn’t last long between the two of us. Finally, the Cara Cara Orange Infused Crème Brulee was a sensational finish to our meal with its full bodied rich texture and consistent orange essence throughout.

We were entertained by the live jazz ensemble during the first part of our dining experience, enchanted by servers and the classic contemporary environment at our semi-private table, delivered to utter happiness and satisfaction with the cuisine prepared and served to us (especially the bottomless wine pairings with the Cut Of The Week menu), and left almost nothing on our plates after indulging in a reasonably-priced and stunning meal inside this casual, yet upscale steakhouse tucked away inside the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas. We hope to return again soon to enjoy another fine meal.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Modern sophistication combines with a classic steakhouse feel. Leather booths, bold pops of red chairs in the main dining room, and a dimly-lit and romantic vibe echo throughout the restaurant.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh-tasting and handmade, we were satisfied with everything we encountered from both the restaurant’s main menu as well as the Cut Of The Week menu (and the extras the kitchen sent out to us!)
  • LOCATION: This particular Charlie Palmer Steak is located inside the Four Seasons Hotel at 3960 Las Vegas Boulevard on the south end of the Strip in Las Vegas, NV 89119.
  • HOURS: Charlie Palmer Steak is open for dinner Monday through Saturday from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM. The Lounge is available for service Monday through Saturday from 5:30 PM until 12 Midnight.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: An efficient and gracious serving team will cater to your every whim. We experienced full attentive service, and had no problems during our meal.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Prices will vary depending what you’re ordering, of course. However, the Cut Of The Week menus offer a lot for under $50 per person with bottomless wine pairings throughout all three courses. Not a bad deal for a restaurant of this caliber.
  • CORKAGE FEE: Unfortunately,no alcohol is permitted to be brought into the restaurant.
  • PARKING: Valet service is available for your convenience in front of the main entrance to the Four Seasons Hotel.
  • PRICING: The Cut Of The Week Menu with three courses and bottomless wine pairings was $48, while the Grilled Hawaiian Swordfish stood at a solid $38. An additional glass of Chardonnay was $11

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

DEAN CHRISTOPHER & FRIENDS… “Jazzing Up Venice Boulevard!”

Posted on by
Reply
Twitt

Dean Christopher’s lively and passionate deliverance of vibrant jazzy tunes will catapult anyone to another level of calming escape, needed relaxation, and gratifying excitement. Gracing the casual, yet intimate setting of Gaby’s Mediterranean restaurant on Venice Boulevard in Los Angeles every Tuesday evening for more than 2 and a half years now, Dean and his trio, which includes bass player Oliver Steinberg and Marc Van Aken on drums, seamlessly dazzle patrons at the Mediterranean eatery from 8 PM until 11 PM weekly. Their prevalent and melodious modulations take you away somewhere relaxed and carefree. Toe-tapping, romantic, and at times even sultry reverberations will leave even the toughest critics with a softened heart, a reflection of a romantic memory that makes them smile, and a new abode to call their own.

2013-04-16 001

Dean Christopher & Friends

Besides his impressive jazz piano compilations, Dean Christopher has succeeded in imbricating career ventures including writing (his authored material has appeared in such publications as National Lampoon and OMNI, as well as having been a contributing editor for SPIN and Discover magazines, contributing book reviews, articles, and a volume Everything along with a parody of motivational books named The Loser’s Guide To Personal Failure.  Alongside his writing career, Dean also involved himself in prosperous journalism and advertising careers.

You can enjoy Dean Christopher & his jazz trio at Gaby’s Mediterranean restaurant Tuesday evenings from 8 PM until 11 PM at 10445 Venice Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90034 (between Motor and Overland.)

Dean can be reached via e-mail at deanchristopher90210@gmail.com

 

CULINA MODERN ITALIAN @ FOUR SEASONS LOS ANGELES AT BEVERLY HILLS… “Modernizing Fine Italian Fare At Four Seasons Hotel!”

Posted on by
2
Twitt

Culina is far more than just your ordinary L.A. restaurant. Boasting Los Angeles’ only “live action” crudo bar where chefs perform their magical genius behind a massive and eye-catching counter of fresh and flavorful delicacies is just one of the many benefits of experiencing this lavish, yet approachable establishment. A fine selection of concurrent and flavorsome Italian fare and Mediterranean raw seafood creations stir the air of this  establishment with excitement, intrigue, and fulfillment. On our last visit, we were enchanted by the ambiance, the romantic feel of the dining space indoors, and of course, by the main attraction…the delicious Italian fare that was meticulously prepared and presented to us throughout the evening. Upon entering the restaurant, we were immediately set at ease by the establishment’s elegant garden theme. From the flowering potted topiary trees to fresh ornamental leafy wreathes on a patio wall we passed as we approached the hostess station to a quick peek through a large multi-paned glass window previewing another part of the restaurant, we were pleased the moment we stepped onto the property. A polished and proficient hostess greeted us warmly, offered kind conversation, and immediately showed us to our table without hesitation.

Culina

Above, stunning illuminated glass sculptures seemed to float effortlessly overhead as we were seated at a cozy spacious booth overlooking the restaurant. A lighted sign at the restaurant’s main entry welcomes diners after dark, while another sign notified passers-by of the restaurant’s location on a nearby corner.  At the table, towering crackers are presented in lieu of traditional breads offering a delightful and artistic effect while being back-lit by a flickering candle casting its dim glow across the table.

With two lounges, two private rooms, an intriguing main dining space, and a spacious outdoor dining patio, Culina offers something for everyone. The restaurant excels in culinary perfection both with specialties at the crudo bar, as well as with inventive presentations from the kitchen. On Wednesdays, the establishment celebrates their appreciation of the vine by hosting their weekly “Wine Wednesdays” all day long with $13 four-ounce tastings, $20 glasses, and $80 bottles from a hand selected menu sure to satisfy any palate.

Culina1

Cocktails & Wine To Start The Evening

We started with a couple of cocktails from the restaurant’s mixologist behind the bar. I delighted in the smooth, yet vibrant flavored Blueberry Martini, which professed all the delicate flavor of a fruity martini, yet delivered a rewarding level of spirituous addition as well. My husband chose a simple Bacardi and Coke as his starting libation of the evening, while our bottle of 2009 Gary Farrell Pinot Noir was corked and allowed to breathe for a few minutes while we perused the Culina menu and indulged in the mixed olive offering at our table.

Culina2

A Modo Mio

The first appetizer that we selected was the A Modo Mio, which was comprised of local burrata cheese, heirloom Rosso Bruno tomatoes, an excellent extra virgin olive oil, and refreshing basil. Pure Italian gourmet delight! We loved how the flavor of the tomatoes was enhanced by the creamy burrata and pop of refreshing basil. The tomatoes were succulent tasting, and were filled with bursts of fresh flavor that we will definitely be returning to experience again.

Culina3

Fiori Di Zucca

We’ve enjoyed squash blossoms before at several establishments. All have been delightfully presented and stuffed with some form of heavenly concoction inside. However, the squash blossoms we tasted at Culina on this particular visit were fried so lightly, it almost seemed as though they weren’t. It was more of a crisp cloud of savory goodness that encapsulated a center of warm ricotta cheese, which was enhanced even more by a tomato and mint side addition.

Culina4

Stracotto

For his entrée, my husband selected the Stracotto, which was a flavorful presentation of short ribs braised in a savory Barolo wine accompanied by various root vegetables and a spinach-horseradish gremolata condiment. The short ribs were extremely tender and while the dish proposed an amazing beefy and marinated flavor, the vegetables and gremolata added a complimentary flavoring to this hearty dish.

Culina5

Lasagna Verdi

I indulged in one of Culina’s signature pasta dishes. Pasta dough is house-made daily behind the scenes in the kitchen where all of the culinary enchantment occurs. This specific evening, I had the opportunity to taste the Lasagna Verdi. Thin layers of spinach pasta intermingled with layers of ragu antico, then creaminess is added with a fantastic besciamella sauce and buffalo mozzarella. I don’t remember how many levels of happiness I experienced when eating this incredible menu item. I lost track with the first bite!

Culina6

Tortino, House Made Limoncello, Sorbetti and House-Made Biscotti

Just when we believed we had not an ounce of space left for another bite, we succumbed to Culina’s homemade Limoncello for after dinner drinks, and a couple of desserts in addition. Somehow, we were able to enjoy three scoops of the in-house prepared Blackberry-Pomegranate, Raspberry, and Grapefruit-Compari sorbet, as well as the Tortino, a warm molten chocolate cake with amaretto and a salted caramel gelato. Every bite of the Tortino literally melted in our mouths, while the potent Limoncello was a refreshing change of pace. The Sorbetti flavors were mouthwatering and bursting with flavor.

We can’t wait to return to Culina to experience their crudo bar, which is a main event in the establishment where chefs perform behind the eye-catching crudo bar while displaying their talents and presenting their inventive creations for unassuming patrons. We also look forward to dining al fresco on our next visit, as well as delight in many newer menu items outside on the garden patio in front of the floating fireplace surrounded by the serene sound of flowing water. Welcome accompaniments to any fine meal at Culina.

  •  ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Modern and trendy feel with enhancements of culinary expertise at every turn. Comfortable large booths and nicely-appointed dinner tables offer a cozy intimate setting inside beneath ornamental glass chandeliers overhead, while an expansive garden dining patio features quite a show with its “floating fireplace” and water feature. Action is lively at the crudo bar upon entering the venue where cocktails and fresh seafood compilations entice diners and satisfy even the most discriminative gourmet.
  • FOOD / DRINK: A wide selection of upscale presentations will delight the palate, and fascinate the visual perception of all who enter the restaurant. Fine Italian fare is elegantly prepared and distributed from the kitchen with poised perfection.
  • LOCATION: Culina Modern Italian restaurant is located inside the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills at 300 South Doheny Drive in Los Angeles, CA 90048.
  • HOURS: Serving phenomenal meals daily, Culina is available for breakfast Monday through Saturday from 6:30 AM to 11 AM, brunch on Sundays from 10 AM until 2 PM, lunch is offered Monday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, while dinner hours run Sunday through Wednesday from 6 PM until 10:30 PM, as well as Thursday through Saturday from 6 PM until 11 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Both management and the service staff were extremely efficient, attentive at every turn, and gracious. At no point did we feel that we were forgotten during our evening of dining at Culina.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Reasonable in our opinion for the stunning display of attractive fare prepared and presented, the romantic and eye-catching elegant, yet modern décor throughout, and the overall feel of warmth and intimacy throughout the entire venue.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: We chose to allow the hotel’s valet service take care of our vehicle for the evening while we dined at Culina.
  • PRICING: The A Modo Mio and Fiorni Di Zuppa starters are priced reasonably at $14 each, while the Stracatto entrée was a solid $35. The Lasagna Verdi came in at a reasonable $19, while a Blueberry Stoli Martini will cost about $18 along with an additional $14 for a Bacardi Rum & Coke cocktail. The Tortino and Sorbetti desserts are each a soothing $9, and each bottle of wine you bring to enjoy with your meal will add a charge of $25. All fair pricing, and well worth the splurge in our opinion.

Culina, Modern Italian on Urbanspoon

Culina Modern Italian Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

KURAMA JAPANESE SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE… “Teppanyaki Southern Style!”

Posted on by
2
Twitt

Kurama is a traditional and well-loved Japanese restaurant located on the golfing sanctuary of Hilton Head Island on the coast of South Carolina. For over twenty years, this establishment has been catering to the steak, seafood and sushi fans local to area residents and visitors from afar. Teppanyaki presentations are always entertaining. The personalities and characteristics of the chefs behind the Teppanyaki tables bring interest and intrigue to the flying sliced vegetables, onion ring towers aflame, and magical tricks they seem to pull from their uniform coat sleeves with ease to the awe of diners awaiting a succulent feast prepared before their very eyes.

Teppanyaki is derived from the colloquial term ‘teppan’ (which means ‘iron plate’) and ‘yaki’ (which is Japanese for ‘grilled, boiled, or pan-fried’.) A common misunderstanding about teppanyaki restaurants is that many believe teppanyaki tables are hibachi surfaces. In fact, teppanyaki is the presentation performed before a large iron table surface that is heated with flaming items en route to your dinner plate. Hibachi, on the other hand, is a type of barbecue grill that offers an open grate configuration an is usually heated by coals or a gas flame. A bit of solution to this normal cooking method confusion, despite some similarities.

Sake, Salad & Ginger Dressing and Japanese Onion Soup

The fresh and flavorful fare at Kurama will make you return. Prepared with artistic flair, the teppanyaki chefs know how to keep your attention as well as take care of your hunger. We started with crisp salads and a house-made ginger dressing that was both sweet and slightly spiced from the ground ginger ingredient. The Japanese Onion Soup is also a pleasant beginning to a fine teppanyaki (or hibachi, if you must!) meal. And a refreshing cold or hot sake always plays nicely with such desirable fare.

Kurama Yellowtail

Yellowtail Sashimi

I started with a Yellowtail Sashimi appetizer before placing my dinner order. Sliced thinly and placed intermittently between lemon slices atop a bright green lettuce leaf with ginger and wasabi, this was a delightful entry into my upcoming dinner.

Eye-Catching Rice & Vegetable Presentation

Quick as a flash, the teppanyaki chef prepared the hot grill and began his performance. Piles of rice become fried in an instant, fresh cut vegetables were sauteed and steaming before we knew it, and a stunning array of the freshest seafood, meats, and chicken was delivered by a sous chef from the kitchen. Several flips of a stainless steel chef’s blade and the expertise to know just when a shrimp, or a scallop, or a chunk of filet mignon was cooked to just the correct temperature, and voila! Dinner was prepared…

Scallops, Shrimp, Beef, & Chicken Are Prepared Before Diners

Kurama offers several combination choices to suit every craving. From steak and shrimp, to shrimp and scallops, to chicken and filet mignon…there are a multitude of mixtures available to choose from. We enjoyed three versions…the Shrimp & Scallop combination, the Shrimp dinner, and the Steak & Shrimp meal. Everything was flavorful, served steaming and at the requested temperatures, and pleasantly filling at the end of the evening.

Combination Dinners: Steak & Shrimp, Shrimp, and Scallop & Shrimp

At Kurama on Hilton Head Island in South Carlina, you will be treated with respect, kindness, and the utmost graciousness when being served by expert teppanyaki chefs. Offering fresh sushi, liberating cocktails and sake, and entertaining and succulent Japanese dining, there’s no where else to go on the island than here for a memorable Japanese teppanyaki meal!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Traditional Japanese decor with several teppanyaki tables, a tucked away festive sushi bar, and a lounge worth stealing away to for pre-dinner drinks. Soothing woods, intricate design, and a spacious dining room.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh seafood, succulent steak and chicken, and beautiful presentations offered by the chefs. Quality beverages also enhance the overall experience.
  • LOCATION: Kurama Japanese Steak, Seafood & Sushi Bar is locate at 9 Palmetto Bay Road in the Island Crossing Shopping Plaza on Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.
  • HOURS: Kurama serves its authentic Japanese fare daily from 4:30 PM to 10 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our servers and chef were friendly, kept us smiling, and created a terrific rapport between all of us throughout our meal. We really hated to leave between the excellent cuisine and the personality and charisma of the staff.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Reasonable for the consistency of what is presented.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $15 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: There is ample parking at no charge in Kurama’s private lot beside the restaurant.
  • PRICING: For three combination teppanyaki dinners, sahimi starters, salads, soup, and sake, our final bill came to about $78 (including tax). A wonderful experience with terrific people and amazing service.

Kurama Japanese Restaurant on UrbanspoonKurama Japanese Restaurant on Restaurantica

Kurama Restaurant Reviews

*Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

HURRICANE BAR @ BLACK MARLIN BAYSIDE GRILL… “Waterfront Happy Hour!”

Posted on by
Reply
Twitt

SERG Restaurant Group consists of seven thriving eateries dotted across Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. One of those locations, The Black Marlin Bayside Grill, is home to the Hurricane Bar. This locals’ hangout is positioned steps away from Palmetto Bay Marina and also offers expansive water views of anchored sailboats, speedboats and the like. Nestled within this marina community sits the Hurricane Bar beneath a canopy of towering oak trees that calls to those who enjoy a casual environment to enjoy what this unique outdoor locale has to offer.

Above, (clockwise from top left), a view of a crowded Hurricane Bar from a few feet away, a shot of the walk-up daiquiri bar under towering oak trees, seating area beside a flowing fountain, and an example of Hurricane Bar’s dog-friendly atmosphere (talk about a well-trained, well-mannered pup!) The indoor portion of the Hurricane Bar offers frozen daiquiris, brews, hot coffee beverages and other liquors to suit whatever adult beverage mood you may be in.

The above view of docked sailboats and other watercraft can be seen from the Hurricane Bar, while towering ages old oak trees spread their protective arms above patrons dining and drinking. Palmetto Bay Marina is steps away with scenic views of the arched bridge adjoining Hilton Head Island to the mainland and offers a serene environment.

From 4 PM to 7 PM at the Hurricane Bar, patrons may select such items as fruity liquid libations and fresh grilled fare for stellar prices all while enjoying a visit with friends, an evening with family, or just some time alone with a refreshing hand shaken cocktail and a view of the calming waters of the island steps from the deck where the bar is located.

Happy Hour at the Hurricane Bar is ever popular on the island. If you’re the type to mingle with the locals, this is where you should be. Select Happy Hour drinks and tasty appetizers create a happy crowd, and a full dining menu from The Black Marlin restaurant across from the Hurricane Bar also presents full-sized meal options inside.

Note: The above and below menus have been updated since we visited. The Shrimp & Artichoke Dip, Fried Mozzarella, and Cheese Stuffed Jalapeno Soft Pretzel have been replaced by the Queso Fundido for $6 (a blend of melted mozzarella, cream cheese and goat cheese with spinach, chorizo and corn salsa with flour tortilla chips), Chicken Tenders for $6, Shrimp Puppies for $4 (hand formed and fried, served with honey butter), and the Crab Legs are the biggest you’ll find here and are still steamed and served with melted butter for $19. The Happy Hour drink menu now features all of the above, except now you can receive $1 off all frozen drinks and $2 off all signature cocktails.

Signature Hurricanes

The Hurricane is THE signature adult beverage at The Hurricane Bar.
Made with Cruzan 151 rum, Tropical Jack rum, Amaretto and unconventional juices which are then shaken and presented with a lemon and cherry garnish. It’s a cocktail that is sure to win you over from the very first sip. This $2.50 concoction is the only thing we order when at the Hurricane Bar. Fruity, colorful and refreshing, this libation is a favorite of ours when visiting the island.

Black Marlin Tacos & Peel-n-Eat Chilled Shrimp

We usually get the Black Marlin Tacos ($2.50 apiece) either fried or grilled. Either way, they’re outstanding and deliciously packed with flavor with their shaved cabbage, Baha taco sauce, pico de gallo and chilled sour cream on either a corn or flour tortilla. And for just $2.50 per taco, you simply can’t go wrong with them. Hurricane Bar’s Peel-n-Eat Shrimp are another choice that we’ve enjoyed. Just $6 for a half dozen, and $12 for a full pound, this offering may be ordered chilled or steamed, and is a satisfying and filling selection.

INSIDER’S TIP: We have found the Baha taco sauce to possess a little too much heat for us. However, just ask your server to either not put it on or place it on the side if you’re sensitive to spicy sauces. Everyone is different, and you may just end up liking it. So don’t be afraid to try it, just be aware that we found it too spicy for our taste.

Hurricane Bar is a fun, eclectic, and dog-friendly spot for a terrific Happy Hour. We know you’ll really enjoy it’s casual friendly ambiance, waterfront location and scrumptious Happy Hour cuisine.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Casual and fun. Come in your swimsuit or boating clothes right off the water nearby or drive over and join the locals for a great time as the sun sets over the marina and the fresh air fills the area as a gentle breeze blows in. Towering oak trees overhead create a majestic natural canopy and a wooden deck lies underfoot with wooden high-top tables and chairs spread around the bar.
  • FOOD / DRINK: We’ve enjoyed Hurricane Bar’s Happy Hour fish tacos, shrimp tacos, Sushi Nachos, Peel-n-Eat Shrimp and we’ve lost count of the Hurricanes we’ve indulged in! Everything is always homemade, fresh-tasting, and tasty with a vibrantly-colored presentation. Fantastic!
  • LOCATION: The Hurricane Bar at Black Marlin Bayside Grill is located at 86 Helmsman Way in Suite 103 on Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 on the waterfront next to Black Marlin restaurant.
  • HOURS: Hurricane Bar offers their Happy Hour pricing and menu daily from 4 PM to 7 PM. Both bars (the Hurricane Bar and the indoor Black Marlin bar) open at noon on the weekends, and a Bloody Mary bar is available during weekend brunch.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Friendly, memorable, make you feel at home, and efficient.
  • PRICE / VALUE: You just can’t beat the Happy Hour prices at Hurricane Bar. It’s a local hangout with great pricing for the value offered in both food and drinks (with a nice view and terrific service to boot!)
  • CORKAGE FEE: The Hurricane Bar outside does not allow private wines or Champagnes, however, Black Marlin Bayside Grill does at $15 per 750mL bottle inside the main restaurant.
  • PARKING: Step off your watercraft and walk over to Hurricane Bar or drive over to enjoy friendly locals, efficient service by an amicable staff and delicious fresh fare with hand shaken chilled libations.
  • TOTAL BILL: Never over $45 for a maximum of four people in our party including food and drinks.

Black Marlin Bayside Grill on Urbanspoon

Black Marlin Bayside Grill Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

BOSCOS RESTAURANT & BREWING COMPANY… “Little Rock’s River Front Dining Locale!”

Posted on by
Reply
Twitt

Serving patrons at locations in Memphis, Nashville, and Franklin in Tennessee, and also in Little Rock, Arkansas in the downtown’s River Market district, Boscos has become known for its consistent production of tasty casual cuisine, and house-brewed ales. Our readers know that we’re not beer connoisseurs, but we understand that those who do try one of the many beer variations here will not be disappointed. Boscos has been brewing award-winning handcrafted beers for more than 16 years. Just last year in 2012, the restaurant and microbrewery took home the gold medal at The 2012 World Beer Cup for their Hefewizon brew, as well as the silver medal for their popular Isle Of Skye Scottish Ale the same year. But the microbrewery isn’t the only thing that is drawing crowds. Their casual relaxed atmosphere also welcomes patrons in along with a brick-oven list of tempting edibles.

Bosco's6

Boscos hosts a pretty popular Happy Hour weekdays from Monday through Friday between 3:30 PM and 6:30 PM. Specials feature $5 appetizers, $5 wines, beers, and cocktails from a select menu, and handcrafted Boscos brews for only $3.50 each! Sounds fairly reasonable to us. The restaurant also presents a fantastic brunch Saturdays and Sundays from 11 AM to 3 PM, which offers delectable waffles, savory Benedict dishes, creative omelets, and much more to feast your eyes, and your appetite on. Additionally, Boscos provides half off specially selected wine each Wednesday, while on Mondays and Saturdays all day long, patrons can get their fill of specialty mugs of beer for only $3 each!

Bosco's1

Above, we perused the lunch menu on a lazy Thursday afternoon. The lunch crowd had long since died down, and we almost had the entire riverfront patio to ourselves by the time we finished our meals. Refreshing beverages were served to us promptly, while a couple of glasses of wine relaxed us as we took in the scenic views all around us.

Bosco's2

What a patio! And quite a view from the outdoor dining deck at Boscos! Expansive sights of the Riverfront Pavilion and the mighty Arkansas River fill one’s visual perception, while refreshing fresh breezes visit every now and again on the waterfront patio. Such a beautiful place for a casual, delicious meal with family, friends, or even by yourself if the day allows for that.

Bosco's3Fried Chicken Salad

Atop Mesclun greens and accompanied by tomatoes, crispy bacon, and chopped egg, these perfectly-fried strips of chicken stand out with their tender and juicy flavor in every bite. Served with a savory honey-mustard dressing, we thought this dish was full of flavor, possessed a lovely crunch from the fried chicken, and encompassed healthy vegetables as well. Filling and satisfying, this was a perfect item to order while focusing on the lighter side of dining, but never lacked the sensational tastes I was craving.

Bosco's4

Asian Grilled Chicken Salad

The Asian Grilled Chicken Salad was presented with baby spinach, almonds, pickled ginger, red peppers and juicy marinated grilled chicken chunks mixed with a sweet and slightly tangy Asian vinaigrette dressing. Delicately-fried wontons were then piled atop this selection for an additional and delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Bosco's5Cesar Salad With Blackened Fish

I especially loved the Caesar Salad with blackened fish when we visited. Nicely prepared, and with a pronounced savoriness in every taste I took of it, this menu item was refreshing from the chilled salad, and warm and delicious from the tender flavorsome fish filet on top. The crunchy croutons on the salad amplified the satisfaction level for me, while the cool taste of the ranch dressing I ordered on the side was a nice compliment.

We really enjoyed our dining experience at Boscos. We shared several bites of different dishes recommended by our gracious server, and we were happy to have visited. If you’re in the Little Rock, Arkansas area, stop by Boscos in the River Market and give them a try. We think you will enjoy this restaurant and microbrewery just as much as we did.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: A beautiful expansive deck overlooking the Arkansas River was breathtaking and such a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a meal out of doors.
  • FOOD / DECOR: Fresh salads with tender fried chicken and crisp greens, brick-oven cooked fish, a selection of various wines and other beverages, and a friendly and accommodating staff will keep this place filled to the brim!
  • LOCATION: Boscos is located at the River Market in downtown Little Rock at 500 President Clinton Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72201.
  • HOURS: The restaurant and microbrewery is open Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 11 PM, Fridays and Saturdays from 11 AM until Midnight, and on Sundays from 10:30 AM to 10 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: We thoroughly enjoyed the service rendered when we dined at Boscos. Our server was friendly, knowledgeable about the menu, and suggested several dishes that were local favorites. Part of the reason we enjoyed ourselves so much was because of the staff at the restaurant.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Reasonable prices for incredibly fresh an delicious fare.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $20 per 750mL bottle (Please call ahead to see if this charge has changed before visiting.)
  • PARKING: Street parking is available along President Clinton Avenue and the surrounding side streets relatively close to the establishment.
  • PRICING: My blackened fish over a bed of greens was $10, while the Asian Grilled Chicken Salad and the Fried Chicken Salad were both $11.50. Selected wines we enjoyed were priced under $10 also.

Boscos Restaurant on Urbanspoon

Bosco's Restaurant on RestauranticaBoscos Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

 

THE PALM RESTAURANT… “Lunch With Steak Burgers & Intriguing Caricatures!”

Posted on by
Reply
Twitt

If you haven’t tried the ENORMOUS steak burgers at The Palm, then you’re missing an incredible opportunity to experience a phenomenal 12-ounce hand-fashioned USDA Prime Beef anomaly. The Palm in fashionable West Hollywood, California catered to our craving for an outrageously divine burger when we visited their establishment with another couple recently.

The very first The Palm was erected in New York City by decendants of the family that still owns the upscale chain today. Since 1926, this steakhouse (that didn’t originally serve steaks in the beginning) continued onward to blossom into a nationally loved gathering place for many. In the early days, the proprietors didn’t have a lot of capitol for decor. Coincidentally enough, that first restaurant in New York City was in close proximity to the King Features building, which is now the world’s premier distributor of comics and editorial cartoons among other artistic items. Back in the day, cartoonists would pay for their meals at The Palm by sketching original portraits of famous individuals on the restaurant walls. Evidently, this form of payment worked well to fill the undecorated eatery, while at the same time aided the artists in getting their work out in the open. That action spun into the evolvement of the numerous caricatures being placed on the walls of future The Palm restaurants, and is what you’ll see today when you step foot into one of these hospitable locations.

Celebrating their 85th anniversary in 2011, The Palm restaurant chain has a lot to be proud of. Decades of successful business and a strong reputation for being known for their high regard for their patrons happiness and satisfaction, this eatery is certainly one of the classics that has staying power not to dissipate anytime soon.

3.28

The Palm is known for their Steakburgers. And rightfully so. We have enjoyed these sensational juicy ground steak temptations on more than one occasion, and will do it again in the future. Below, we relished in a couple of The Palms more famous burgers…

The Bozzi Burger

Chosen in honor of and named after one of the original proprietors of the restaurant, Pio Bozzi, the Bozzi Burger ($16.90) encompasses everything crunchy, crispy, beefy, succulent, and incredible about The Palm’s steak burgers. Served with aged Gouda, BBQ sauce with a hint of smoky essence, and flavorsome fried onion strings, this gigantic vision of beefy perfection will satisfy every curiosity you ever had about these outrageously large sensations. Accompanying all the steak burgers at The Palm is lettuce, tomato, and onion. The Bozzi Burger also comes with a side of tangy BBQ sauce, which is a welcome  flavor addition to the salty fried onions, juicy Prime beef, and smoky cheese.

The Second Avenue Burger

The Second Avenue Burger ($16.90), names after the street in New York City where the original The Palm steakhouse exists, is another flavor experience we suggest. The Danish blue cheese and expertly smoked bacon allow for a heightened sense of flavors to culminate with the beefy goodness of the steak burger. The toasted sesame-sprinkled brioche buns are also a nice detail.

If you’re in the area, stop in at The Palm for Prime Time held from 5 Pm to 7 PM Sunday through Fridays and indulge in half off Prime Bites, beer, select wines by the glass, and premium spirits. Available in the bar area, the selections available will ease your taste for something savory for a reasonable price.

3.281

Prime Steak Burger Sliders & Mini Broiled Crab Cakes

We chose a couple of glasses each of a smooth Pinot Noir, and shared the Prime Steak Burger Sliders and Mini Broiled Crab Cakes. The steal burger sliders were covered in cheddar cheese that was perfectly melted and delicious with the beef, a pickle, and a pesto mayo, while the crab cakes provided a nice combination of flavors with the mango salsa, crisp cucumber slice and a zesty remoulade sauce. Each served three to an order, these tasty morsels catered to our something quick, delicious, and casual all while enjoying them inside the dark wood encompassed bar at The Palm.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Colorful caricatures flood the walls of this venue, while   a traditional steakhouse feel is projected with shiny brass details, leather booths, and well-kept woods throughout.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Sensational steak burgers, a savory wine selection, and enormous portions.
  • LOCATION: The Palm we visited is located at 9001 Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, CA 90069.
  • HOURS: Lunch is presented Monday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Dinner is served Monday through Thursday from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, on Fridays from 3:00 PM -to 11:00 PM, Saturdays from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and also on Sundays from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM. The Palm’s version of happy hour, called ‘Prime Time’, exists Sunday through Friday from 5 PM to 7 PM offering discounts on bar bites, an select beer and wine.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Accommodating, personable, knowledgeable, and pleasant.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Fantastic quality at an acceptable price for what we enjoyed.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $30 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: Metered street parking is available surrounding the establishment, as well a valet service for the restaurant.
  • PRICING: The Palm’s “Bozzi Burger” and “Second Avenue Burger” run about $16.90 per sandwich, while the appetizers during Prime Time in the lounge were priced between $11.90 to $12.90 per order with 50% off those and the glasses of Row 11 Vinas 3 Pinot Noir started out at $17.80 per six-ounce pour.

Palm Restaurant on Urbanspoon

The Palm L A on Restaurantica

The Palm Restaurant Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

NAPA VALLEY GRILLE… “Happy Hour Under The Stars!”

Posted on by
Reply
Twitt

Our most recent visit to Napa Valley Grille in the prominent Westwood community of Southern California came as no surprise considering Executive Chef Taylor Boudreaux’s culinary focus on flavorsome presentations and memorable flavors. Maryland-born Chef Taylor graduated with a degree in Culinary Arts from the Scottsdale Culinary Institute in Arizona, then moved quickly up the ranks to Mastro’s Steakhouse in the same state. At just 26 years old, Chef Taylor entered the fast-paced Beverly Hills market in California, opening the popular and well-known Mastro’s Steakhouse, then in 2010, worked for Wolfgang Puck at the star-studded Spago. In 2011, Chef Boudreaux was approached to become Executive Chef of Napa Valley Grille in the vibrant Westwood community of Los Angeles, where he delights patrons on a daily basis with his culinary magic and uncanny creations of flavorsome delights.

Napa Valley Grille

Upon entering the restaurant, we immediately noticed the lounge area and expansive bar to our right. A luminescent elongated bar with a ceiling depicting a night sky comforted us. We were greeted by a smiling mixologist who ensured us that we would have a terrific time, and he could see that we were excited to get started perusing the Happy Hour menu. After some suggestions from our skilled bartender, we began with the “Hibiskus Kosmo” ($8) made with Absolut Hibiscus, cranberry juice, Triple Sec, and fresh squeezed lime juice The second llibation we selected was the Napa Mule ($6), which was concocted with bourbon, fresh lime juice, ginger sugar, and bitters. The essence of apple and bourbon together with the slight taste of ginger combined nicely with the Napa Mule, while the cranberry and Absolut Hibiskus blended smoothly to create an excellent cocktail with the Hibiskus Kosmo. The vibrant colors of both were also very appealing, as you can see from the below photos…

Napa Valley Grille2

Hibiskus Kosmo & Napa Mule Cocktails

The Thyme Lemonade was refreshing and a third libation we just had to try. Appealing to the eye, refreshing, and made with fresh lemonade, thyme sugar, vodka, and garnished with a fresh lemon round and fresh thyme, this cocktail scored high marks with us. The sweetness, tang of the citrus and flavorful thyme were perfectly balanced, and left us very satisfied. I especially loved the tall glass this beverage was served in.

Napa Valley Grille1

Thyme Lemonade Cocktail

There is a pleasing list of small plates during Napa Valley Grille’s Happy Hour. We chose several of these culinary treats from Chef Taylor’s line-up of tapas selections, and found that every taste was as exciting and flavorful as the first. Our first expedition into experiencing Chef Taylor’s array of culinary bites was the NVG (Napa Valley Grille) Turkey Meatball selection ($6). These tender, perfectly hand-rolled orbs of tantalizing ground turkey were as delicious as they were visually stunning. A tomato fondue accompanied this dish, along with white cheddar and fresh herbs. Served four meatballs to an order, this was a perfect selection to start off for my husband and myself.

Napa Valley Grille3

NVG Turkey Meatballs

If you enjoy Korean BBQ beef skewers, this is a great spot to enjoy them, Chef Taylor prepares these beautiful tender chunks of beef on wooden skewers, then finishes the presentation off with a chilled cabbage slaw and a soy vinaigrette. Exploding with savoriness and endless levels of flavor, this is surely not an option to miss.

Napa Valley Grille4

Korean BBQ Beef Skewers

We also experienced the Duo Of Fish Tacos ($5), which was created by beer battering tender fish, and adding pickled onions, cabbage-escabeche (“escabeche” refers to a hot marinade that slowly pickles (the cabbage) as it cools.) Presented two to an order, these brilliantly colored vessels of spectacular taste and allure grabbed our taste buds’ attention immediately. Colorful and creative, and most importantly, delicious, these edible selections were delectable and savory down to the last crumb on the plate.

Napa Valley Grille5

Duo Of Fish Tacos

We finished with the Beef Slider Duo ($5) that consisted of two perfectly crafted mini hamburger buns which encased juicy petite beef patties. Succulent and also served with a tangy tomato fondue, an olive Aioli, and an unforgettable smoked cheddar cheese, these little guys hit the spot. The one spot we had left after indulging in and enjoying ourselves at Napa Valley Grille’s Happy Hour.

Napa Valley Grille6

Beef Slider Duo

Napa Valley Grille offered us a very pleasant evening in the lounge this particular visit. The ambiance was alluring, the setting was comforting, and the service proved friendly and efficient. We look forward to returning to find out what Chef Taylor has up his culinary sleeve next time!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Walking into Napa Valley Grill delivers patron into an out-of-doors fantasy. Inside the expansive lounge, the ceiling possesses characteristics of a night sky with twinkling stars overhead. Outside on the patio, fresh breezes are appreciated, while guests are enchanted by the evening’s colors of daily fading sunsets.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh, flavorful, memorable in all ways satisfactory. We hope to return again soon to indulge in more at Napa Valley Grille!
  • LOCATION: Napa Valley Grille is located at 1100 Glendon Avenue, Suite 100 in Los Angeles, CA 90024.
  • HOURS: The restaurant is available for lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 3 PM, Dinner on Mondays through Thursdays from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM, Fridays and Saturdays from 5 PM to 11 PM, and on Sundays from 5 PM to 9PM. Brunch is accessible on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 Am to 3 PM. Happy Hour is featured Monday through Saturday from 3 PM to 7 PM and 9 PM to 12 Midnight, and again on Sundays from 3 PM until 11 PM in the lounge, at the bar, and on the patio.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: A very friendly staff is accommodating, responsive, and the flow of service throughout the lounge and main entry appeared seamless and fluid.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Tasty compilations from Chef Taylor served by friendly staff members anxious to assist in any way they can. Mixologists whip up crisp libations with fresh seasonal ingredients sure to captivate the palates of every visitor, while appetizers summon the attention of dining patrons and keep them coming back for more.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $20 per 750mL bottle in the restaurant as well as the lounge areas.
  • PARKING: We experienced ample parking opportunities along the side streets within nearby walking distance to the restaurant with no problems. We were informed that valet parking service is available daily for $4 for the first two hours, with a $6 maximum during both lunch and dinner hours.
  • PRICING: We visited Napa Valley Grille during Happy Hour and enjoyed the “Hibiskus Kosmo” ($8), the Napa Mule ($6), and the Thyme Lemonade ($6) libations. From a menu of several appetizers, we chose the NVG Turkey Meatballs ($6), the Korean BBQ Beef Skewers ($4), the Duo Of Fish Tacos ($5), and the Beef Slider Duo ($5).

Napa Valley Grille on Urbanspoon

Napa Valley Grille on Restaurantica

Napa Valley Grille Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and pricing subject to change without notice.

RITA’S ITALIAN ICE… “Promising Happiness For The Redondo Beach Community!”

Posted on by
Reply
Twitt

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as enjoying the cool refreshing taste of frozen treats most any time of the year. So when SavorHour.com was invited to the soft opening of Rita’s Ice in Redondo Beach recently, we knew we were in for a great experience. We were excited about this particular invitation because we had previously visited several Rita’s Ice locations in the southeast. So we knew what we were in for…everything delicious!  Owners Jake Cosme and Josh Pascua are lifetime friends and veterans of the Iraq War. We had the pleasure of meeting these two gentlemen, and they couldn’t have been nicer, more accommodating, or more excited about their new business venture. Jake discovered Rita’s for the first time when he attended the Naval Academy in Maryland. And like us, he couldn’t stop thinking of what a terrific experience that was after his first taste of what Rita’s had to offer. Now the second store in California (the first having opened about a week ago in Santa Clarita), Jake and Josh are bursting into the community with a fresh take on traditional frozen treats.

Mark your calendars for the planned May 17th Grand Opening date, because this is going to be a huge hit in the Redondo Beach area. Our drive from Brentwood to Rita’s Ice proved well worth the 20 miles of driving to get there. And we’ll be doing it again once the location opens full-time in May.

Rita's

Waffle Cones On Display, The Staff Hard At Work & Frozen Treat Samples

Rita’s Ice originated in Philadelphia in 1984 and started franchising in 1989. Since then, this popular chain of frozen treat perfections has not slowed it’s pace or it’s success. With more than 500 locations across the country offering frozen custards, gelati, Mistos (liquid custard and Italian ice blend), Blendinis (frozen custard and Italian ice blended with crushed Oreos, Nilla Wafers, pretzels, Heath candy bar pieces, Reece’s Pieces, M&Ms, or Wonka Nerds candies), Slenderita (fat-free soft serve), and milkshakes sure to please anyone’s taste for something sweet and chilled, Rita’s is leading the way as America’s winner for happy, satisfied, and returning guests. And here’s a twist…literally…Prospect Pretzels’ Justin Ashlock will be introducing his idea of combining his delicious soft pretzels with Rita’s frozen custard! (You know that sounds out of this world delicious!) Patrons can also order Justin’s soft pretzels by themselves at Rita’s (see below). We tried them, and they’re every bit as savory and scrumptious as Justin explained they would be.

Rita's1

Rita’s Italian Ices

We tried the Rita’s frozen custard sundae, the Birthday Cake and Chocolate custards, a few of the Prospect Pretzel twists, and the Cotton Candy and Strawberry Italian ices. All were presented fresh and each bite was memorable. We thoroughly enjoyed the fact that the Italian ices incorporate real fruit along with a refreshing iciness in every bite.The pretzels were soft, warm, and perfectly salted, while all of the flavors of the items we tried were worth returning again to enjoy for a second, third, and fourth time (and fifth, and sixth, and seventh, and….well, you get the idea!)

Rita's3

 Rita’s Signature Logo Containers, Fresh Baked Prospect Pretzels & A Rita’s Hot Fudge Sundae

Rita’s website is also packed full of interesting and entertaining items (see below for the link.) There’s a Fun Stuff section, a Reading Incentives Program for children, information for celebrating birthday parties, store tours to show you exactly what goes on behind the counter and how all your Rita’s favorites are made, there are group meeting options, fundraising possibilities, and even a Birthday Club that’s free to join that offers everyone a special chilly surprise on their special day.

 When the company says that they “promise happiness”, they mean it. You’re not just a customer in line at Rita’s. You’re a guest in their home in a way. You’ll feel a happy and welcoming vibe when you enter a Rita’s store, and you’ll leave with that promise of happiness on your way out. We certainly felt that at the Redondo Beach Rita’s. And we’re sure that you will feel that as well.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Inside, the establishment is designed in a contemporary fashion alight with bold colors. A sleek ordering counter and eye-popping colors welcome you inside, while outside, patio tables and chairs and convenient benches allow for an out-of-doors experience.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Icy flavorsome treats, warm fresh baked pretzels, and several blended creations worth experiencing again and again.
  • LOCATION: Rita’s Ice is located in the Redondo Shores Shopping Center at 403 North Pacific Coast Highway, Suite #101 in Redondo Beach, CA 90277.
  • HOURS: Rita’s is available for business Monday through Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Everyone we came into contact with was very knowledgeable about the products, services, and the store in general. All of our inquiries were answered fully, and we were happy to see such delightful service. Both Jake and Josh as well as their entire staff seemed genuinely happy to be a part of the business.
  • PRICE / VAUE: Great pricing for such unique and refreshing treats!
  • CORKAGE FEE: It’s frozen dessert! Nothing being corked here.
  • PARKING: Ample complimentary parking is available in the Redondo Shores Shopping Center in front of Rita’s Ice.
  • PRICING: Depending on what and how much you order, prices will vary. The cost of sweet frozen rewards at Rita’s comes with a reasonable price tag and a much larger satisfaction factor!

** SPECIAL THANKS: We’d like to thank Jenny Luu of Media Junkies LLC (public relations & marketing for Rita’s) for extending an invitation to us for Rita’s soft opening on April 8, 2013. We enjoyed meeting Jenny, owners Jake and Josh, the kind staff members of this location, and Justin Ashlock of Prospect Pretzels.

Rita's Italian Ice on Urbanspoon

Rita's Ice Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

 

MERCATO DI VETRO RESTAURANT… “A Market Of Glass Worth Peering Into!”

Posted on by
Twitt

The name Mercato di Vetro is Italian for ‘market of glass’. The cuisine, ambiance, and seamless customer service is unparalleled beyond compare. The elegantly sassy vibe with trendy contemporary ambiance that is sure to be around for a long time to come tugs at the romantic side of one’s heart. Two floors of intimate seating with two full bars situated center stage, two open preview kitchens on the first level complete with a wood burning oven and pasta maker, and a striking mix of dark-toned woods and a sleek modern motif combine to offer eye catching hues throughout the eatery with bursts of reds and greens to enhance the Italian-inspired theme.

Mercato di Vetro

A comfortable energy fills the air as patrons are warmly greeted upon entering the front door. Once inside, dual preview kitchens provide a feast for the eyes and a celebration for the senses where the magic of handcrafted pasta and pizza dough is artfully crafted and on display leaving an observant audience wondering what they will soon become before being baked and delivered to awaiting tables of hungry diners.  Chef Danny Elmaleh’s Italian-inspired shared plates and tapas selections with vibrantly enhanced Mediterranean touches turn up the “wow” factor for the palate and visually stimulate the senses of anyone who is fortunate enough to be present inside this haven of delicious satisfaction.

Mercato di Vetro1

Well-versed servers are readily available to explain the well-constructed menu selection for the evening, or suggest items you’re sure to enjoy. Our server was Jay the evening we visited, and his expertise regarding the menu guided us in a direction of pure delight. General Manager, Sandro Coppola, made a point to check in with us often to ensure our utmost satisfaction. We dined on the second level of the establishment at a tandem booth overlooking the second level bar, candlelit for two.

Mercato di Vetro2

Blood Orange Martini, Peartini, & A Glass Of Pinot Noir

We started with two of Mercato di Vetro’s signature hand-shaken cocktails. The Blood Orange Martini, created with Absolut Mandarin Vodka, fresh lime juice, and Serrano chiles for an amped up kick was surprisingly subtle in sweetness and heat, which was a delightful revelation. We’ve enjoyed several fiery martini spins on the traditional cocktail, but this by far has to be one of our favorites, if not the best we’ve had yet. The flavor is every bit memorable, but we weren’t left with the requirement for a fire extinguisher after finishing this libation. A top drawer concoction done right. My husband chose the Peartini, which showcased the flavors of fresh pear, Grey Goose Vodka, and a splash of cranberry.  Refreshing, not too sweet, and satisfying throughout the entire experience. Both available for $15 each, we were content with those selections.

Mercato di Vetro3

Hen Of The Woods & Artichoke Starters

Two absolutely sensational starters we shared were the Hen Of The Woods, and the Artichoke offerings. The Hen Of The Woods ($9) is a mushroom dish, which in its natural habitat grows in clusters at the base of trees…particularly oaks. Accompanied by a flavorsome creamy aioli, fresh Parmesan cheese, and colorful chives, this earthy flavor-filled menu selection will leave you taking about it for days. The Artichoke starter ($9) encompassed the flavors of tahini, mild olives, and lemon with tender love and care from the kitchen making these vegetables a perfect item to share or enjoy solo.

Mercato di Vetro7

Branzino

For our main courses, we chose the Branzino ($19), which was delicately prepared with a cauliflower couscous, lebaneh, and a flavorful curry addition that rounded off this dish excellently. The creaminess of the cauliflower couscous beneath the flaky, perfectly-grilled, mild-flavored pesce was topped with micro greens for an appealing garnish, while each bite of this delectable presentation offered a superb balance in flavors.

Mercato di Vetro5

Wagyu Flat Iron Steak

The Wagyu Flat-Iron Steak offering ($25), was marinated in a Madeira-soy jus with porcini mushrooms and tender grilled fingerling potatoes. I enjoyed a couple of full-bodied glasses of 2011 Italian Hofstatter Pinot Noir for $13, which complimented the savory beef altogether.We gave into temptation at the mention of the restaurant’s unwritten dessert menu. Jay recited the items with a personal excitement, as if he was making himself hungry just speaking about the items available! We decided on the chef’s traditional Tiramisu ($10), which was creamy, just sweet enough without being overpowering, and rich enough without making us regret ordering it. Fluffy and delicious, this was a pleasant Italian dessert ample enough to share adequately between the two of us.

Mercato di Vetro6

Tiramisu

We look forward to returning to Mercato di Vetro again soon. In fact, I’ve already got my eyes on a few items to try on our next visit such as the Kale Prosciutto starter, the Duck Meatballs, the Bacon & Blackberry Pizza, the Beef-Cheek Ravioli, and the Doughnut Holes for dessert!.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Mercato di Vetro will astound your visual perception with its multi-colored glass bottle displays, its two-story dining space with expansive bars, two impressive preview kitchens, and a romantic, candlelit ambiance throughout.
  • FOOD / DRINK: We could have enjoyed the entire evening just indulging in tapas, however delving into the main courses is well worth the experience. We didn’t have to be convinced to try the restaurant’s Tiramisu for a sweet temptation after dinner either! Cocktails were refreshing, uniquely-designed, and hand-shaken by proficient mixologists, and Mercato di Vetro’s wine list offers succulent tasting wines to accompany any item on the menu.
  • LOCATION: Mercato di Vetro is located at 9077 Santa Monica Boulevard (next door to The Troubadour) in West Hollywood, CA 90069.
  • HOURS: Open for business Monday through Wednesday, and Sunday for dinner from 6 PM to 10 PM. Thursday through Saturday, the restaurant serves from 6 PM to 11 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: We had the immeasurable pleasure of being taken care of by General Manager, Sandro Coppola and our server, Jay, who both expelled superior knowledge about the establishment, the menu, and the history of the building. Sandro’s expert management of the staff and overall flow of the business is meticulously executed, and his customer service is seamless and admirable.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Well-priced selections from tapas-style cured meats and cheeses to gourmet vegetable presentations to delectable seafood and meat items to house made pizzas and pasta dishes. Artisan cocktails and wines will add to the final bill quickly, but are worth experiencing.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: If you’re fortunate enough to locate a metered parking space near the restaurant, do so without hesitation. Valet parking is available for the eatery, which is shared with valet parking for The Troubadour next door for $8 per vehicle.
  • PRICING: The Peartini and Blood Orange Martinis were $15 each, while the Hen Of The Woods and the Artichoke starters were $9 each. The Branzino dish came in at a reasonable $19, while the Wagyu Flat Iron Steak was a solid $25, and the Tiramisu dessert was and easy $10. We also enjoyed the 2011 Italian Hofstatter Pinot Noir at $13 per glass.

* SPECIAL THANKS: General Manager Sandro Coppola deserves special acknowledgement for his extremely well-articulated communication with his staff, his pleasant demeanor with his patrons, and his sincere hospitality and generosity offered to us during our visit.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

COAST RESTAURANT & BAR @ CANARY HOTEL… “American Cuisine With Panoramic Rooftop Views!”

Posted on by
8
Twitt

THIS RESTAURANT HAS BEEN RENAMED “FINCH & FORK” AND CAN BE SEEN AT WWW.FINCKANDFORKRESTAURANT.COM.

Coast Restaurant & Bar is nestled inside the Canary Hotel in thriving downtown Santa Barbara, California. With comfortable seating and views of busy sidewalks from tables inside this eatery next to huge floor-to-ceiling windows, patrons can view passers-by and the beauty of downtown Santa Barbara. Serving American fare with west coast enhancements, Coast Restaurant & Bar caters to connoisseurs of fresh seafood, tender meats and crisp vibrant vegetables meticulously prepared and delivered straight from the local Farmer’s Market to your table.

Close to the California coast with its serene ocean and beach, nearby upscale shopping along popular State Street, and located within Santa Barbara’s quaint beach community, Coast Restaurant & Bar presents relaxing comfort, savory cuisine and an inviting environment perfect for enjoying any meal of the day.

Below, photos of an interior dining room, the main entry of the restaurant, intricate wood details throughout the space indoors, and the water service presented in a tall glass corked bottle before each meal.

Coast Restaurant & Bar provides a wide variety of succulent fare from fresh creative seafood presentations to tender cuts of beef to crisp vibrant salads and tempting dessert creations. Everything is made fresh with Farmer’s Market-purchased ingredients and that can be tasted in the final product that arrives from the kitchen. Dishes are prepared to your specifications and are delivered with pride and a smile from friendly servers. Our late lingering lunch was just what we were looking for to tame our rumbling stomachs after spending the morning shopping and visiting friends on State Street.

Specialty Iced Teas

Before ordering my glass of wine, I shared in a Signature Iced Tea with my husband before ordering. These were enhanced with fruit flavors, rosemary essence and herbs mixed throughout to create sensational-tasting iced teas that proved to be both flavorful as well as visually enchanting once we sipped from these colorful concoctions.

Coast Restaurant & Bar advanced some pretty astounding starters. From the ‘Finger Foods’ selection (from $4 to $7), you can chow down on Warm Marinated Olives, Honey Roasted Spiced Peanuts, Dungeness Deviled Eggs, or Truffle Fries With Mustard Aioli. The ‘Share’ portion of the menu suggests items that can be split (from $3 to $13) from the Classic Ceviche to the Market Fish Tacos to several other interesting dishes…

West Coast Oysters

 We satisfied our hunger and graced our palates with the West Coast Oysters ($3/each). In fact, they were so inspiring that we ordered a second dozen before we had even finished the first one! A terrific starter to any meal, these oceanic wonderments were full of flavor and possessed a perfect creaminess to their texture. The accompaniments of sauces and a caper relish were excellent sidekicks to these amazing mollusks.

Roasted California Mussels

Another ‘Share’ menu item we couldn’t pass up was the Roasted Californian Mussels offering ($12). These succulent morsels were tossed in Coast’s tangy and sweet and hearty tomato sauce with fennel, saffron and creme fraiche, and definitely hit the spot. Served with grilled sliced bread sticks on top, this was a wonderful flavor experience.

In addition to Coast’s Artisan Flat Breads (ranging from $10 to $14), their ‘Garden” menu selections are also pretty incredible. From Ahi Tuna and Potato & Fennel Soup and fresh salad options, I chose the Skirt Steak Salad ($15) for my lunch entree.  This delectable mixed greens compilation included wild arugula, slices of sweet pear, contrasting blue cheese crumbles, candied walnuts and a smoked balsamic vinaigrette. Not to mention the tender, perfectly-grilled skirt steak slices piled onto the plate. Healthy and lean, this was a delightful lunch for me. The portion size was large, and the mixture of flavors between the sweetness of the fresh sliced pear and candied nuts with the tangy blue cheese and smoky dressing created a beautiful presentation.

Skirt Steak Salad

And now for the second entree that was ordered….

Lamb Burger

My husband enjoyed the Lamb Burger. A switch on the traditional beef burger, this creation was not only tasty, but presented with a sweet date compote, and an onion relish cilantro yogurt. (Um…can I just have a bowl of this yogurt condiment and a spoon, please?) The sauce was great, but everything together, including the tender bun this carefully ground lamb burger came with made my husband’s dining experience only that much better. The addition of the fries was a battle I quickly lost with my husband, so I forced myself to enjoy a few of the crispy, perfectly-cooked potato strips. A touch of light salt on these was welcomed, and the crunchy exterior and warm potato interior remained throughout the duration of the meal.

Interior of the Lamb Burger

By now, you would think we had no room left after the feast we enjoyed. But when our server stopped by with a dessert menu, we gave in to temptation and chose the Lemon Cheesecake ($8) to share. I must say, the caramel and chocolate sauce alongside this elongated rectangular slice of lemony creamy sin was perfectly sweet and balanced. The macadamia nuts that rained down atop this sugary confection added a brilliant crunch to this already magnificent end-of-the-meal treat. (And no…we didn’t finish our dessert!)

Lemon Cheesecake

Here’s a suggestion for all of you who choose to enjoy a meal at Coast…take a walk to the rooftop of the hotel before or after your meal and catch a glimpse of the panoramic mountain views of Santa Barbara. (Aren’t the above photos incredible!)  It’s called the Rooftop Perch, and once there, you’ll understand why it’s such a perfect name for this hideaway overlooking the area. My husband and I just peered out over the edge of the rooftop for what seemed like an eternity.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Deep woods, colorful seating and a classic vibe throughout the restaurant.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh-tasting, excellently prepared, delicious-tasting and worthy of a return visit.
  • LOCATION: Coast restaurant is located inside the Canary Hotel at 31 West Carrillo Street in Santa Barbara, CA 93101.
  • HOURS: Coast is available for breakfast Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 10:30 AM. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Dinner is available Sunday through Thursdays from 5:30 PM to 10 PM, and on Friday and Saturdays from 5:30 PM to 11 PM. Brunch is offered Saturdays and Sundays from 7 AM to 3 PM, while the bar is open daily until midnight serving bar menu fare from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Happy Hour at Coast is presented Monday through Friday from 4 PM-7 PM with a variety of discounted cocktails and bar bites.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was lovely. She showed attentiveness, professionalism, friendliness and appreciation of our stopping in for lunch.
  • PRICE / VALUE: We felt the price was a tad high for lunch, but we thoroughly enjoyed the quality of what was ordered. Of course, the pricy glass of wine and the additional 18 oysters helped to raise the total bill as well.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $20 per 750mL bottle
  • PARKING: There is ample paid parking in the nearby city parking garage for a reasonable charge.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our total came to a bit over $135 (including tax) for two dozen oysters, an order of mussels, the Lamb Burger, a Steak Salad, a glass of wine, two teas and a cheesecake dessert. Let’s just say that we’ll be back!

Coast Restaurant & Bar on Urbanspoon

Coast Restaurant & Bar on Restaurantica

Coast Restaurant & Bar Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO… “Springing Forward With New Menu Items!”

Posted on by
2
Twitt

If you’ve been to one the nearly 200 existing P.F. Chang’s locations, you know that you’ve also been more than once, or you’re planning to return again in the future. With the use and combination of fresh ingredients, bursting flavor from each dish that’s prepared, and a flavorful spin on Asian favorites, Shanghai-born co-founder and culinary consultant, Philip Chang and consulting Chef Yuji Iwasa conglomerate on ideas and inspirations for dishes that please and satisfy the palates of their numerous customers. Newly created dishes now available at this widely popular restaurant offer inspirations inspired by the spring season with savory Southeast Asian influences.

IMG_8713

The interior decor at the Sherman Oaks Galleria P.F. Chang’s location is Asian with modern enhancements. A beautiful spacious dining room allows for patrons to enjoy an intimate lunch or dinner without feeling overcrowded, while an expansive lounge and bar with a see-through partition allows for viewing of the restaurant’s culinary theatrics in the kitchen. Personable bartenders await your requests and impress with flavorful concoctions, crisp wines, and other desirable selections.

P.F4

Main Dining Area, The Arched Lounge & The View Over The Bar

Inspirations for the new menu additions include all the favorites most loved about spring…bright colorful fresh vegetables, flavorful tastes that are both refreshing and enticing, and a wholeness of flavor just waiting to give you even more reasons to keep returning to this Asian bistro chain.

3.14

Vietnamese Prawn Rolls

One of several new features on the spring menu at P.F. Chang’s is the Vietnamese Prawn Rolls appetizer. Served with refreshing chilled leaves of Bibb lettuce, delicately fried and presented with a flavorsome toasted sesame-soy sauce and Thai basil, fresh mint, and cilantro, these crispy and succulent starters will kick off the perfect sensation of flavors on your taste buds while you’re deciding what to order for your main course.

IMG_8351

Thai Beef & Noodle Salad

Bursting with flavors of the Orient and the fresh tastes of spring corn kernels, juicy grape tomatoes, savory caramelized beef, colorful greens, egg noodles, tangy sweet mango, creamy avocado and cucumber, this new salad addition will please anyone’s craving for Southeast Asian cuisine. The additional essence of Thai basil and fresh mint mixed into a seasoned citrus vinaigrette dressing and a subtle hint of spice is then crowned with chopped peanuts and bright green cilantro.

IMG_8643

Sea Bass With Tropical Salsa

Here’s an entree for the record books…try the Sea Bass With Tropical Salsa. The sweet meat of the Sea Bass is gently enhanced by the Sriracha sauce (a type of hot sauce named after the coastal city of Si Racha, in Eastern Thailand), which is then garnished with a compilation of flavorful tropical fruit salsa and micro greens atop a bed of grilled asparagus. This striking dish is then drizzled with a sweet chili sauce to complete this creation. A dazzling display, but more importantly, an amazing sensation of flavors as well.

Also a new addition to the menu, the Thai Basil Sambal Noodles entree ($12.95-chicken, $14.95-shrimp, or $13.95-combo of both, not pictured), provides a gluten-free option with rice noodles, fresh veggies and fragrant Thai basil gently tossed in a coconut sambal sauce with a spicy enhancement. We didn’t try this item, but it sounds absolutely delicious!

We must not forget to highlight P.F. Chang’s Happy Hour. Named Triple Happiness for it’s celebration of street fare favorites, hand shaken flavorsome libations, and the restaurant’s popular dim sum offerings, this is quite the event Monday through Fridays, with double Happy Hours Monday through Thursdays in addition later in the evening. Below are just a few of the tantalizing selections from the Triple Happiness menu, which we have thoroughly enjoyed…

8.281

Chang’s Spare Ribs, Ahi Crisps, Asian Street Tacos, & Steamed Shrimp Dumplings With A Mixture Of Sauces

The Steamed Dumplings are a huge hit with us. We’ve enjoyed all three versions of the pork, vegetable and shrimp options, but our favorite by far is the shrimp selection with shrimp, ginger, carrots and green onion (3 for $4), we keep going back to those time and time again. The Asian Street Tacos are another savory item on the Triple Happiness menu. Served two per order ($4.95), we favor the traditional beef version, which is a braised Korean beef treat encompassing all the flavors you can imagine it would possess and then some! If you enjoy a little spice in your Happy Hour, try the Ahi Crisps ($5 per order), which are created with diced Ahi and scallions, then mixed with a sesame-soy dressing with fresh sliced avocado atop crispy wontons. I indulged in this spicy crunchy dish, despite the mild heat it offers. Not too much heat, but just enough. The Chang’s Spare Ribs are another delightful appetite resolution. Basted in an Asian BBQ sauce and seared in a wok, these delectable ribs literally fall off of the bone they’re so tender. Every one of these (and many more options on the menu) will make you realize that your “triple happiness” starts at P.F. Chang’s!

3.25

Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Above, we wanted to share another favorite of ours…the Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps ($8.95). These are a signature presentation of P.F. Chang’s, and are comprised of chicken that has been wok-seared, water chestnuts, green onions, and mushrooms combined into savory goodness, then served over crunchy rice sticks and offered with chilled crisp lettuce cups. Sounds great, doesn’t it? That’s why it’s a signature dish. And that’s why we keep ordering it!

P.F3

Dragon Martini, Chinese 88 Martini, Chardonnay, Organic Agave Margaritas & P.F. Chang’s Mai Tai

Some of the tasteful cocktails on the Triple Happiness Happy Hour menu include the P.F. Chang’s Mai Tai ($6) served in a tall glass with a fresh pineapple wedge garnish, the Organic Agave Martini for an easy $6 (made with Patron Silver Tequila and organic agave nectar with a splash of fresh lime juice), the Dragon Martini (one of my favorites!), and the Chinese 88 Martini (crafted with Plymouth Dry Gin and shaken with fresh lemon juice then topped with sparkling wine for $6.) All sensational options, all delicious down to the very last sip! Above, we also sipped a couple of glasses of the Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay ($11/glass).

INSIDER’S TIP: Don’t forget to sign up for P.F. Chang’s Warrior Rewards. This dining rewards card is complimentary and presents you with discounts on the tempting fare you enjoy at the restaurant!

A terrific cozy location inside the Sherman Oaks Galleria, an amazing friendly staff to guide you and offer suggestions about drinks and eats, and a relaxed modern Asian ambiance to enjoy it all in. Just some of the reasons we keep returning!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The decor is Asian with nicely-appointed modern touches everywhere in the restaurant. Statues of noble horses await the arrival of patrons right outside the main entry, while inside, the space offers an expansive dining room, an elegantly finished lounge and bar, and a private event room adjacent to the lounge area.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh, consistent, flavorsome, expertly prepared, and keeps us coming back for more.
  • LOCATION: This particular P.F. Chang’s is located at 15301 Ventura Boulevard in Suite P inside the Sherman Oaks Galleria in Sherman Oaks, CA 91403.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: The staff at the Sherman Oaks P.F. Chang’s location is proudly overseen by Manager Jaque Flattery, who impresses her patrons regularly with her superior management skills and great rapport with employees and visiting customers alike. Danny, Levon, Rolando, and Travis at the bar astound with their festive libation creations and delight with their outstanding personalities.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Great value for what is presented, especially during the Triple Happiness events Monday through Friday.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $10 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: There is ample parking in the Sherman Oaks Galleria parking structure. P.F. Chang’s offers a 2-hour complimentary validation. Just present your parking stub to your server, and they will be more than happy to validate your ticket.
  • PRICING: Our final bills have been varied depending on what was ordered, but we’ve never surpassed $50 (including tax) for appetizers during Happy Hour or for dinner and cocktails at the bar.

P.F. Chang's China Bistro on Urbanspoon

P F Chang's China Bistro on Restaurantica

P.F. Chang's China Bistro Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

* SPECIAL THANKS: We would like to congratulate Manager Jaque Flattery for the amazing job she does every day overseeing the operations of the restaurant. We would also like to offer our sincere thanks and appreciation for her generosity and the genuine hospitality she shows us every time we visit.

 

STONEFIRE GRILL… “Stonefired Flavor & Family Dedication!”

Posted on by
2
Twitt

Sisters Mary & Maureen Harrigan brought Stonefire Grill to life in 2000 when years of family dinners in their large family evolved into something they desired to share with the rest of the world. The concept of great times, lively conversation, and consistently delicious fare evolved into the Stonefire Grill locations that exist today. With locations in Valencia, West Hills, Chatsworth, Fountain Valley, Thousand Oaks, Pasadena, and Irvine, this California-based restaurant group has proven over the last 13 years just how perfect they are for the community. With a popular catering business that has evolved since the restaurant’s inception, several fast-casual (order upon arrival, then your meal is delivered to your table) Stonefire Grill locations throughout California, and an award-worthy staff, there are many reasons to visit one of these outstanding eateries.

3.19

My husband and I were invited to review the Thousand Oaks location. We arrived just at nightfall, and were already pleased from our walk from our vehicle to the main entry. Crossing the parking area, several flowering trees stood magnificently in their strategically-placed spots, while two large fire pits at the eatery’s entrance enhanced the evening’s darkness creating a luminous glow against the building. But there was something else that really caught our attention as we approached…the mouthwatering, incredible wafting aroma of steaks and chicken and fish being grilled inside the establishment’s open kitchen. The aroma alone was enough to put a smile on our faces, and a spring in our step.

General Manager, Jacob Shearer, couldn’t have been more helpful, delightful to speak with, or more excited to work for the company. When discussing his position, his expression literally lit up with a glow that was continuous throughout our meal. It was infectious, almost…because every employee we spoke with, the same thing happened. They just lit up. Their smiles and sincere words about working at Stonefire Grill was quite refreshing to witness. We literally left the restaurant feeling better than we did when we arrived. That in itself was pretty incredible.

3.191

Freshly Baked Breadsticks

A sensationally flavorful beginning to any meal at Stonefire Grill is their freshly baked bread sticks ($2.79 for an order of six.) Tender, flavored with garlic and a pinch of salt, and some of the best bread sticks we’ve had in a while, these are an essential item to order with any meal you enjoy.

For you salad lovers out there (myself included!), Stonefire Grill offers EIGHTEEN original salad creations. We relished in the flavors of three of them: Stonefire Grill’s BBQ Chopped Chicken Salad, the South Of The Border Salad, and the Keen Green Salad…

3.192

Stonefire Grill’s BBQ Chopped Salad, Keen Green Salad & South Of The Border Salad

We enjoyed samplings of the BBQ Chopped Salad with grilled chicken breast (top upper left), which encompassed flavors of jack cheese, fresh chopped tomatoes, sweet roasted corn kernels, carrots, red cabbage, black beans, and mixed greens tossed with crunchy tortilla strips and buttermilk ranch dressing. A choice of quinoa, chicken breast or tri tip is available for this salad. The Keen Green version (top lower left) provided healthy quinoa, tossed with beautiful dark-leafed spinach, savory artichoke hearts, hand sliced creamy avocado, sun-dried tomatoes and pesto with a topping of Parmesan cheese. This had to be my favorite of the three we tasted, although I have to admit it was very difficult to make a decision between the three versions! The third salad we tried was Stonefire Grill’s South Of The Border salad. With a choice again of quinoa, grilled chicken breast, or tri tip, we enjoyed tri tip tossed with fresh avocado, cucumber, red cabbage, artichoke hearts, tomato, Gouda cheese and a savory Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette dressing throughout. You can imagine how flavorful these were. Pricing for these salads varies according to the size ordered with the South Of The Border and Stonefire’s BBQ Chopped salad ranging from $6.99 to $18.99, and the Keen Green salad at a static $8.99, there’s something for everyone between the flavors and the price range. (We also shared a bottle of wine that we brought to enjoy with dinner. When we found out Stonefire Grill’s corkage fee was just $2.00 per 750 mL bottle, we couldn’t resist!)

3.193

10″ Margherita Pizza, Pesto Pasta & Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The flavor experiences just kept coming, as we were introduced to Stonefire Grill’s Margherita Pizza. This thin crusted beauty found it’s inspiration in Napoli, Italy where the Harrigan sisters visited to explore the true methods of pizza making. The result is what you’ll experience at any Stonefire Grill today. Pure ingredients, an excellent perfectly baked crust, flavorful harmony between the hand-crushed tomatoes and soothing mozzarella cheese…I’d actually like another one right this second! And for $6.99, the Margherita Pizza is ideal for a starter, or a snack after a bit of shopping in the area. The Pesto Pasta provides all the color and flavor one could imagine in a pesto dish. The vibrant green hue of the pesto mixed with perfectly al dente pasta is a vision to behold at just $5.99 for a serving to accommodate one person. Stonefire Grill’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes are also a fluffy and fulfilling side item (just $2.99 for a 1-2 person serving) that everyone must try as well. We also experienced the Macaroni & Cheese dish (not pictured), which was creamy, sinfully delicious, and made us long for more at a simple $5.49 for a small serving.

3.194

Stonefire Grill’s Fresh Salmon

If you enjoy expertly prepared salmon, then Stonefire Grill is the place you need to experience it. We were presented with a taste of the Sesame Glazed and Lemon Garlic versions (each $11.99 for an 8-ounce portion) from the kitchen. Tender, flaky, savory, literally melt-in-your-mouth delicious, this was such a gratifying experience. Cooked in Stonefire Grill’s high-heat broilers, you will find out just how incredible the salmon is at this fast-casual eatery. Everyone knows I’m a salmon lover. And this salmon lover was well taken care of by the flavorsome experience this allowed me. Just looking at the above photos shows the flakiness and tenderness of these salmon presentations. So incredible.

3.195

Mesquite BBQ Tri Tip & Cracked Pepper Garlic Tri Tip Topped With Gorgonzola Butter

We were impressed with the Tri Tip offerings we received. The first, a Mesquite BBQ Tri Tip beautifully sliced and topped with fresh chopped parsley, the tenderness and flavor of the beef was meticulously prepared. Meats and chicken selections at Stonefire Grill are slow-cooked overnight in a uniquely-designed oven to ensure the enhancement of tenderness and lock in all the delicious juices they possess. From there, they are removed from the oven straight onto a mesquite fire grill where all the magic occurs.

IMG_8762

Mesquite BBQ & Lemon Garlic Chicken

Pictured above is the popular Mesquite BBQ and Lemon Garlic Chicken. So tender, served with a beautiful presentation, and offered with the Tri Tip in a combo version on the menu as well, these are just one of the numerous amazing things Stonefire Grill is known for.

We simply had no room remaining for another bite after the feast we enjoyed at Stonefire Grill. However, General Manager Jacob Shearer insisted that we take a piece of their famous Carrot Cake home with us. (How did he know carrot cake is one of my favorites?) It was interesting to find out that only two employees know the secret recipe for this tempting dessert! Once we returned home from our wonderful evening out, we took a look at this sweet creation, grabbed two forks, and sat in front of the fireplace with a glass of wine. Needless to say, there wasn’t a morsel remaining!

IMG_8790

Stonefire Grill’s Famous Carrot Cake

As if these delectable items aren’t enough to temp you to jump into your car right now and head over to Stonefire Grill, there’s more! Now Stonefire Grill offers lunch items under $8.00! Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 2 PM at the Pasadena, Irvine and Fountain Valley locations, the restaurant presents it’s lunch specials such as their 2-Topping 7-inch Pizza & Side Salad, the BBQ Beef or French Dip Sandwich & a side, and many other options (see website below for all Lunch Specials)…all for under $8. You simply cannot beat that deal for the value you get and the quality of the meals here!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Warm earth tones create a cozy feel inside the restaurant, while there exists a consistent flow among the staff and patrons.
  • FOOD / DRINK: We definitely DO recommend Stonefire Grill to anyone who is searching for an authentic, unique, delicious meal out. Whether for a single diner, a family of twelve, or somewhere in the middle, Stonefire Grill is that perfect answer to all of those needs. Foods are delivered daily to the restaurants to ensure freshness, the entire menu is available for Take-Out to make it more convenient for those on the go, and dressings and sauces are made fresh every morning, while sous chefs are kept on hand throughout the day to maintain freshness of all salads, sides, and meal presentations.
  • LOCATION: The restaurant we visited was located at 3635 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.
  • HOURS: Available for lunch and dinner, the Thousand Oaks Stonefire Grill location is available for dining from 11 AM to 9:30 PM Sunday through Thursday, and again on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 AM to 10 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: We were impressed with the astounding service we received. From General Manager, Jacob Shearer, and his glowing explanation about working for the company, to our discussions with multiple staff members who always seemed to be genuinely smiling to be employed at Stonefire Grill, my husband and I left that night feeling even better than we did when we arrived. Fantastic staff rapport, an incredible morale among everyone, and a team effort feeling that’s very obvious.
  • PRICE / VALUE: The price for the value of the cuisine at Stonefire Grill was very reasonable. Portions are larger than most, as they are meant for sharing in most cases.
  • CORKAGE FEE: Stonefire Grill charges an easy $2 per 750mL bottle. We just couldn’t resist when we heard that, so we brought a bottle with us when we dined at the restaurant!
  • PARKING: The Thousand Oaks location supplies ample complimentary parking in the private lot located beside the restaurant.
  • TOTAL BILL: We were honored to have been the guests of Stonefire Grill this particular evening, which was hosted by Groff-Hinman

*SPECIAL THANKS: We would like to thank the Thousand Oaks Stonefire Grill General Manager, Jacob Shearer, and his outstanding staff for their generosity and hospitality, as well as Groff-Hinman, Inc., with a special thank you to Kristen Hinman for their kind invitation to experience such a lovely establishment!

StoneFire Grill on Urbanspoon

Stonefire Grill Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

SKULL CREEK BOATHOUSE… “History & Good Times Set Against A Waterfront Backdrop!”

Posted on by
14
Twitt

Formerly the popular Boathouse II establishment on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Skull Creek Boathouse came into existence in 2009 when SERG Restaurant Group transformed it into one of the best seafood gathering spots on the waterfront. Previously part of the largest dry dock boat storage area on all of Hilton Head Island and after expansions and extensive renovations, Skull Creek Boathouse has now become what it is today. A lively, relaxing, fine establishment where locals and visiting tourists flock to for great times, a stunning water view over Skull Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway, and some of the most amazing fresh seafood, succulent steaks and vibrant sushi presentations around.

With its historical outdoor bar, Lowcountry style and intertwined protective oak trees hovering overhead, this establishment honors the South Carolina coast. Have a seat in one of the many adirondack chairs, watch the boats go by, and have a hand shaken cocktail while you’re at it. Perfect for a conversation with someone you love before or after a nice meal at Skull Creek Boathouse. Above, the logo compass on the entrance to the restaurant, the lunch menu, and the view of the front entrance to the eatery.

 

How about these views! A nautical feel with an upscale ambiance. Catch a glimpse of a dolphin jumping out of the water from the banks of Skull Creek, wave to boaters returning from a day’s adventure, or just take in the natural beauty all around you.

The indoor part of the restaurant features their popular Dive Bar, which offers fresh favorites like sushi, ceviche and seafood platters that will astound. Out of doors, the eatery offers a massive wooden deck filled with dining tables overlooking the water. Marker 13 is the renovated historical outdoor bar and is a conversation piece in itself. You can also catch a glimpse of watercraft being transported to and from the Hilton Head dry boat storage facility right next door. The deck is also the place to enjoy the establishment’s Sunset Reggae Party on Tuesday evenings with live music and promotional drink specials.

Sashimi Combo Plate, Angry Tuna Roll, and Tuna Sashimi

Here are just a few items from the Dive Bar at Skull Creek Boathouse. Above, a combo plate of fresh and colorful sashimi, the Angry Tuna Roll encompasses flavorful ingredients such as spicy tuna, avocado and a soy and eel sauce drizzle, while an order of thinly sliced tuna is topped with spicy mayo, avocado and crispy onion strings.

Grilled Talapia Sandwich, Soft Shell Crab Sandwich Special, Blackened Mahi Mahi Sandwich, and the Ahi Tuna Sandwich

If you’re in the mood for a terrific fish sandwich, this is the place to get it. In fact, this is really the place to get ANY sandwich! Above, revitalizing renditions of the Grilled Talapia Sandwich with a side of slaw, the sinful but melt-in-your mouth Soft Shell Crab Sandwich Special, a Blackened Mahi Mahi Sandwich with crinkle fries, and two images of the Ahi Tuna Sandwich served with potato salad. There’s literally something for everyone here, as you can see in these photos.

SKB (7)

Napa Salad

Above, the Napa Salad ($11) is enhanced with dark green baby spinach, crunchy toasted almonds, baby green beans, creamy avocado slices, fresh red grapes, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds for a little extra crunch, crumbled goat cheese (one of my favorites!) , and honey poppy seed dressing. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, butcher filet or chilled rare seared tuna for an additional $4.50, but I just wanted to enjoy the salad without any additions this particular afternoon. And I certainly did enjoy it.

Below, another salad we can recommend is the Chopped Creole Cobb Salad ($12.50). Presented with a Creole Honey Mustard dressing that I asked to be placed on the side (just in case it was too spicy), I found that it was more creamy with a hint of spice…not heat so to speak. This outstanding serving was prepared with chilled shrimp, chopped smooth avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped turkey, mixed colorful greens, chopped tomato, apple wood smoked bacon, tasso ham (which gave the salad an additional kick of spice), and crumbled blue cheese dressing. Is anyone drooling right about now?

SKB (2)

Chopped Creole Cobb Salad

SKB (6)

Fish Tacos

The above Fish Tacos ($7.50) were served with crisp chilled iceberg lettuce, diced tomato salsa and taco sauce inside soft flour tortillas. These were grilled, but patrons may also request the fish to be fried as well. The fish was tender and flaky, while the crunch of the crisp lettuce and mild flavor of the tomato salsa inside completed the entire package. A side of crinkle fries with a ramekin of ketchup was also a nice accompaniment.

SKB (4)

Crab & Shrimp Dip

Crunchy multi-colored tortilla chips are beautiful to admire. Pair them with Skull Creek Boathouse’s Crab & Shrimp Dip ($9.25) and you’ll be smiling ear to ear. This emulsion is made with artichoke hearts, hearts of palm, and creamy goat cheese. (They must have known I was coming with all of the goat cheese!) Easily shared between four people if ordered as an appetizer, this dish is the perfect starter to a meal.

For incredible fresh seafood, tasty fish sandwiches, sushi and seafood platters at the indoor Dive Bar, crisp flavorsome salads and an outdoor bar with a storied past all overlooking the beautiful tranquil waters of coastal Hilton Head Island, there’s nothing like Skull Creek Boathouse. We always enjoy our meals there, and we’ll continue to dine there on future visits to the coast.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: A lively and exciting waterfront location perfect for enjoying an amazing view. The entire establishment is decorated in eclectic decor with a nautical theme. Colors abound everywhere and as a whole (indoors and outside) the entire eatery is extremely pleasing to take in.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Refreshing flavorsome cocktails, freshly prepared fare with sensational ingredients, and expertly crafted meals that are without flaw.
  • LOCATION: Skull Creek Boathouse is located at 397 Squire Pope Road on Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.
  • HOURS: The restaurant is available for service for lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM-4 PM, then also on weekends from 11 AM-4 PM. Dinner is served Sundays through Thursdays from 4 PM-10 PM, then on Friday and Saturday from 4 PM-11 PM. The Sunset Supper Menu is offered daily from 4 PM-5:45 PM. Brunch is presented on the weekends from 10 AM-3 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: We have always experienced a kind, informed, conversational and efficient staff during our visits to this location.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Excellent freshness of sushi at the Dive Bar indoors, meticulous consistency of the quality of what is served, and overall satisfactory pricing for what is offered.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $15 per 750mL bottle
  • PARKING: There is ample complimentary parking in front of the restaurant alongside the Hilton Head Boat Storage Building.
  • TOTAL BILL: It has really depended on how many people we’ve had with us and what was ordered during our many meals at Skull Creek Boathouse, so a good average of our experiences with the total bills we’ve had ranged from $35 to $75.

Skull Creek Boathouse on Urbanspoon

Boathouse Ii Restaurant on Restaurantica

Skull Creek Boathouse Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

GIRASOLE CUCINA ITALIANA… “Neighborhood Charm & Intriguing Cuisine!”

Posted on by
15
Twitt

My husband and I had the immeasurable pleasure of visiting Girasole Cucina for a romantic dinner one chilly evening. The name refers to ‘a gem that reflects light in a bright luminous glow’. We feel the name suits this family run operation, as the restaurant does in fact reflect a shimmer of love and happiness down Larchmont Boulevard for all to appreciate through authentic Italian cooking, generosity and kindness shown to dining patrons, and the comforting and welcoming feeling one acquires when dining here.

Girasole is operated by an Italian family, and has been in full swing since 1993. There’s a good reason this alluring treasure has been in existence for so many years. And still, today it is as popular as ever without seemingly appearing overcrowded. Reservations are strongly recommended, if not required for a table at Girasole. The modest dining room fills up fairly quickly, as we witnessed due to the palatable cuisine that is proposed.

My husband and I love dining along the sidewalk tables of Larchmont Village. This particular evening, the sun had already set, and the fast approaching darkness arrived almost without notice. We sat at a candlelit bistro table draped in white linens with a view of Larchmont Boulevard, the well-paced activity view through the windows of the restaurant, and twinkling stars overhead welcoming the evening solace.

Girasole does not sell alcohol, therefore they are happy to not charge a corkage fee for bottles of wine their customers bring in to enjoy. A friendly server receives your chosen vintage, then decants it in a sunflower-yellow ceramic vessel, which they place on your table along with two garnet-colored drinking glasses. Water was served, and we were left alone for a few minutes to peruse the evening’s menu filled with delectable temptations perfect for a chilly evening such as this was.

Bread service was well-received and presented with extra virgin olive oil. Tender and hearty, this sourdough version of bake goodness was just perfect for tasting with the bottle of red we arrive with.

Insalata di Arugola

We chose the Insalatta di Arugola ($10) which was comprised of tender baby arugula, shaved Parmigiano cheese, earthy pine nuts, and lemon and extra virgin olive oil. This was an ample portion for enjoying with a second person. My husband and I split this salad, and we were surprised how long it lasted. There’s something about a simple lemon juice and olive oil dressing that leaves a pleasant happiness on the taste buds. The nuttiness of the pine nuts mixed nicely with the perfect dressing and zesty Parmigiano shavings also.

Farfalle con Salmone Addunicato

My husband chose the Farfalle con Salmone Adunicato. This dish encompassed all the goodness of fresh mild-tasting cooked salmon and hearty house made pasta in a memorable cream sauce that wasn’t so heavy you couldn’t enjoy the dish. We switched the original bow tie pasta this entree normally is served with for a lovely tagliatelle pasta that really made the experience of consuming this meal worthwhile. A bit of freshly grated Parmesan on top of it all, and you’ve got a warm flavor-filled bowl of happiness just waiting to be devoured.

Pollo con Limone

The Pollo con Limone ($18) was my selection of the evening. Mouthwatering hand-breaded chicken breast cutlets with a savory lemon and caper sauce accompanied by a side of creamy whipped potatoes and sauteed spinach. Such a beautiful presentation. The chicken was moist and perfectly prepared with a very light breading, while the lemon and capers added a pleasant zing to the entire entree.

IMG_6832

Penne con Melanzane

This was another flavorsome treat at Girasole…the Penne con Melanzane ($15). Expertly prepared penne pasta tossed in savory fresh tomatoes and olive oil, then topped with Mozzarella and grilled eggplant. Simple ingredients, a burst of flavor when tasted, an aroma to pacify most anyone, and a beautiful presentation on top of it all.

IMG_8253

Pasticcio con Ragu e Porcini

I have declared this my favorite lasagna dish ever this side of Italy. The Pasticcio con Ragu e Porcini ($16). This vegetable lasagna contains layer upon layer of tomatoey sensations, earthy Porcini mushrooms, and a mouthwatering ragu. One bite of this sensational creation, and you’ll understand why I love it so much. Below, you can see the interior of this delectable dish after I sliced it in two on my plate. Full of color, full of flavor, and full of heartiness without being too heavy.

IMG_6837

Pasticco con Ragu e Porcini

We were extremely happy with our experience at Girasole. We would recommend it to anyone seeking a fine authentic Italian meal in a romantic environment with efficient service in addition. Locating a meal as good as this Hancock Park neighborhood gathering spot is somewhat difficult for the reasonable pricing, free corkage, attentive service, and elegantly appointed cozy ambiance. If you haven’t been to Girasole, you should give it a try. It possesses as much charm and elegance as the Larchmont Village area does, and it will leave you envisioning your next visit before you know it.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Girasole is a small charming Italian restaurant with limited seating indoors that will require a reservation to ensure a table due to space and popularity. Indoors, you will gain a feeling of warmth and casual elegance from the soft tones and white tablecloths carefully draped atop tables enhanced by candlelight. Outside seating is limited along the sidewalk in front of the business with heaters for cooler evenings and a view of Larchmont Boulevard.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Tasteful and bursting with flavors of love that were put into each dish in the kitchen, elegantly presented, and just all around fantastic.
  • LOCATION: Girasole Cucina Italiana is located in Larchmont Village at 225 1/2 Larchmont Boulevard in Los Angeles (Mid Wilshire), CA 90004.
  • HOURS: Girasole is available for dining Tuesday through Friday from 12 PM to 10 PM, and on Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 PM to 10 PM. It’s a good idea to make a reservation due to the limited seating. But take our word for it that you will be so happy to experience this paragon of the community.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was Sophia, and she was as friendly and efficient as could be. She also made a point to check on us frequently despite the inside of the small eatery being completely full. Just delightful service that will most certainly bring us back again.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Excellent pricing for excellent Italian cuisine.
  • CORKAGE FEE: The restaurant does not have a liquor license, so they welcome you to bring your own wine with NO CORKAGE FEE! Bring something from your personal cellar, or stop in next door at Larchmont Village Wine, Spirits & Cheese for a nice selection there as well.
  • PARKING: There is ample metered parking along Larchmont Boulevard, which runs in front of Girasole restaurant.
  • TOTAL BILL: For the two of us, our bill came to $47.85 (including tax) for the Insalata di Arugola, the Pollo con Limone e Capperi, the Farfalle con Salmone Affumicato, and no corkage charge on the bottle of wine we brought to enjoy with dinner. It’s difficult to find an authentic Italian dinner in a romantic atmosphere for under $50 with wine. Girasole has certainly won our appreciation between the savory Italian cuisine, the unparalleled service that was rendered, and the perfect location in the quaint, cozy neighborhood of Hancock Park.

Girasole on Urbanspoon

Girasole Restaurant & Takeout on Restaurantica

Girasole Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

VERANDAH RESTAURANT @ FOUR SEASONS RESORT LAS VEGAS… “Repeating The Savory Experience of Verandah!”

Posted on by
34
Twitt

During another visit to Verandah restaurant inside the Four Seasons Resort on the Vegas ‘Strip’, we were once again wowed by Chef Antonio Minichiello’s culinary expertise and flavorsome surprises. The Lombardia Region of Italy was featured this time throughout the 3-Course Tasting Menu, which I had to experience. (The Lombardia area of Italy is a sizable northern region which includes Milan and other breathtaking Renaissance cities.) Offering an Antipasti selection, a choice of main courses, and a dessert option, my 3-course dinner was more proof of Chef Minichiello’s expert skills and showcased his true passion for what he does best. We had the immense pleasure of meeting Chef Antonio during our dinner at Verandah on this particular visit, and we couldn’t have been more pleased by his sincerity, kindness, and personal explanation of each item we ordered.

12.173

Pumpkin Soup & Chef’s Amuse-Bouche of Italian Cheese and Sun Dried Tomatoes

We were tempted by Chef Antonio’s amuse-bouche, which was delivered before our appetizers meant to excite the taste buds before a meal. Amuse-bouche is a culinary French term, which means “mouth amuser.” And amuse our mouths it most certainly did. Above, the tasting of this mouthwatering Italian cheese atop smoked sun-dried tomatoes was not only divine in flavor composition, but also in its visual display. Additionally, we enjoyed the warm Pumpkin Soup with gentle touches of mild spice and buttery enhancements.Arancini MilaneseArancini Milanese

The first of three courses I chose was the Arancini Milanese. These expertly coated orbs of deliciousness were crafted with saffron risotto, which gave this starter a brilliant golden hue inside, while a sweet red onion sauce and a slow braised veal ragu completed this offering. A unique hazelnut crisp topped this presentation nicely.

12.172Casoeula

My main course selection was the Casoeula. Try this for a memorable flavor experience…tangerine lacquered pork tenderloin, black garlic and basil mashed potatoes, red cabbage jam, Chanterelle mushrooms and a rich stout sauce blending taste and tastefulness together on a single plate. Sounds incredible, doesn’t it? We can promise you it was that and so much more!

12.17112-Ounce Filet Mignon & Sauteed Mushrooms

My husband ordered the 12-ounce Filet Mignon with a side of sauteed mushrooms. A picture is worth a thousand words, and the above photos of this beautiful, perfectly-cooked steak are proof of that. Expertly grilled, artfully presented, and accompanied by a side of savory sauteed mushrooms…well, you get the idea. I don’t think my husband has ever ordered anything but the Filet Mignon at Verandah over the past several years we’ve been dining there. After having it on our first visit to the restaurant years ago, he just can’t get around to ordering anything else due to the extreme satisfaction it provides. I also have to agree that Verandah has one of our top five filets across the U.S. and Europe that we have ever remembered experiencing. They’re just THAT incredible!

20121221235153Torta Sbriciolona

For dessert, I decided upon the Torta Sbriciolona. This crisp cookie-esque shortcrust tart was filled with a dream-enhancing hazelnut cream, topped with a sphere of house made roasted hazelnut gelato, then generously and beautifully encircled with sauces of chocolate, caramel and vanilla. Finished off with fresh crushed pistachios and a fresh sprig of mint, this was a sweet and satisfying finale to our meal that cured our sugar cravings that evening. Sweet tooth no more!

Another fantastic meal at Verandah, another recollection of it for our SavorHour.com readers, and more fond memories of dining at this chic, upscale, and romantic venue that never disappoints, but inspires, enhances, and beckons its patrons to return again and again.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The decor of the restaurant is graced with contemporary touches while embracing patrons in a comforting and inviting surrounding. A full bar staffed with experienced mixologists offers dazzling and refreshing libations, and the dimly-lit romantic ambiance throughout the establishment encourages one to linger a bit longer as the evening goes on.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Exquisite memorable cuisine prepared by Chef Antonio and his culinary team astounded…leaving smiles on our faces…again. There exists such consistency in the quality of the creations that come out of the Verandah kitchen.
  • LOCATION: Verandah restaurant is located on the first floor of the Four Seasons Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada at 3960 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas, Nevada 89119.
  • HOURS: Monday through Friday from 6:30AM – 11AM, Breakfast Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00AM -11AM, Breakfast Buffet Saturdays an Sundays from 8AM – 1PM, Lunch every day from 11:30AM -3PM, Afternoon Tea Monday through Friday from 3PM – 4PM, Dinner every day from 5PM – 10PM. The Verandah Bar is open every day from 12 Noon – 10PM. *Afternoon Tea requires 24-hour advance notice. On Saturday and Sunday, afternoon tea is served for private parties only.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: The staff at Verandah continues to amaze us with their kindness, graciousness, and welcoming invitation each time we visit. We were so happy to be served by Leakhena again, as we have always appreciated her warm demeanor, charming personality, and professional service.
  • PRICE / VALUE: We were satisfied with the value we received for what was charged for the cuisine at Verandah.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: Valet service is available to care for your vehicle while dining at Verandah.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our final bill came in over $100, but between two glasses of rose Champagne, a 12-ounce Filet with a side of sauteed mushrooms, and my selection of the 3-Course Lombardia Region Tasting Menu, we had no complaints.

Verandah on Urbanspoon

Verandah on Restaurantica

Verandah Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

FIG & OLIVE KITCHEN, TASTING BAR & OLIVE OIL MARKET… “Mediterranean Elegance On Melrose!”

Posted on by
30
Twitt

It takes unwavering determination, the passion and perseverance of a saint, and an astounding will to follow the dream of creating a restaurant that is not only successful, but also inviting, alluring, and romantic in the heart of a bustling city. The owners of Fig & Olive restaurant have succeeded in this endeavor not once, but an impressive five times. With prestigious locales in New York (the Meatpacking District, Westchester, Uptown on Lexington, and on Fifth Avenue), plans are now in the works for a sixth locale in Newport Beach, California this year. Fig & Olive also upholds its successful reputation with its location in West Hollywood, CA on Melrose Place where we visited for a late lunch and were pleasantly impressed by what was offered with every aspect of the restaurant.

2.25

One of Several Live Fig Trees, The Front Entry of the Restaurant, & the Ordering Catalog for Fig & Olive’s Gourmet Market Items

Executive Chef Pascal Lorange harmoniously crafts his noteworthy signature dishes in the unmistakable Fig & Olive kitchen (where diners can catch a glimpse through the opening of a wall of shelves graced by hundreds of bottles of imported olive oils) where all things delicious and heavenly are being created. Mediterranean works of edible art utilizing imported and local tastes from Southern France, Spain, and Italy are carefully prepared and meticulously plated for delivering to awaiting patrons in the various dining areas of the restaurant. Chef Pascal sears, breads, fillets, roasts, and constructs his creatively inventive eye-opening culinary presentations. Using Fig & Olive’s namesake imported olive oils instead of butter in all the dishes is another incredible feat that Chef Pascal executes nicely.

Fig & Olive

Main Dining Room Enhanced By Fresh Rosemary “Hedges” and an Open Kitchen Amidst Decorative Bottles of Olive Oil

A multitude of seating options presents itself as you peruse the restaurant with optical observation. All flowing effortlessly from one area to the next. The restaurant abounds with fresh rosemary gently dividing the main dining room into intimate sections giving the feeling of dining within a sunbathed herb garden. Live fig trees placed throughout the establishment make a prominent statement, terra cotta-colored ceilings and white washed walls adorned with black wrought iron railings and strategically placed sconces contrast nicely, a skylight enhanced elegantly-appointed enclosed dining patio through a glass entry enchants, and the incredible aroma between the fresh herbs in the restaurant and the mouthwatering emanations wafting from the open kitchen invites patrons inside creating a warmth and comfort that Fig & Olive is proud to possess.

Fig & Olive1Sunbathed Patio Allows For Additional Intimate Dining

The nicely-appointed skylight-enhanced patio offers patrons another exceptional setting. Daylight floods through three large overhead bays, while walls are adorned with Fig & Olive’s namesake balsamic vinegars and other gourmet delights. Terracotta tiles show off their hue beneath your feet, and live fig trees stand proudly as one of two of the restaurants mascots. (The second being the olive tree, of course!)

Fig & Olive2

Communal Table & Tasting Bar, Cozy Lounge Seating, Lower Level Bar, and the View of the main Dining Room From the Second Level

You’ll notice the chic communal table and tasting bar upon entering this haven of culinary delights. Plates of delectable fare can be shared, while new acquaintances can be made at the same time. The feeling is intimate, yet open, and the area flows into the lounge and bar space without flaw or hesitation. Upstairs, an additional lounge and dining area allows for a view of the lower floor over a black wrought-iron railing depicted with carved leaves of an olive tree. Downstairs, a reserved area for the resident DJ exists for live entertainment Thursday through Friday nights. The lights go down, candles and wall sconces are lit, the music begins, yet the environment remains intimate and romantic.

SkyDrive2

Fresh Baked Fougassee Olive Oil Bread Served With A Trio of Signature Olive Oils

Sometimes, the bread offering can make or break a beginning impression. The perfect beginning to a perfect meal can be found at Fig & Olive. The warm fresh-out-of-the-oven Fougassee olive oil bread that is presented before orders are taken resembled tiny pillows of happiness dipped into liquid silk. Unique in flavor and texture, our only disagreement was which one of three olive oils we liked best for dipping purposes.

We were thrilled to partake in Fig & Olive’s Three-Course Lunch Tasting Menu. I appreciate tasting menus because they allow for the experience of a multitude of flavors. This also aides in featuring various items at dining establishments for our readers. This time, my husband joined in and elected the Three-Course Tasting Menu as well. Tasting Menu portions at Fig & Olive are substantial…as large as their ala carte versions, and encompass all the flavor, excitement, and intrigue one can imagine tasting. Available Monday through Friday, this tasting menu is a ‘must-do’ at Fig & Olive when you’re hoping to experience an array of tasty and comestible pleasures.

SkyDriveTrio of Crostinis

The Crostini selection at Fig & Olive is noteworthy. Meticulously handcrafted, designed to entice the visual perception as well as the palate, and appearing as though they should be placed upon a pedestal and worshiped, we were presented with three of the numerous crostini versions before our first courses arrived. The first, the Goat Cheese, Caramelized Onion, and Chive Crostini. Creamy goat’s cheese just begging to be devoured mixed with the sweet earthy flavor of caramelized onions and topped with bright green fresh chives..this sampling beckoned seconds. The next, the Manchego, Fig & Marcona Almond Crostini took our taste buds for another flavor enhanced ride with its terrific blend of Manchego cheese and sweet fig topped off with the excellent crunch of Marcona almonds…just a delight to enjoy. The third consisted of prosciutto, ricotta, fig, honey and almonds…it just kept getting better and better as we explored the tastes of each crostini. Paired with a few glasses of white wine, these were highly enjoyable.

SkyDrive1

Trio of Crostinis We Indulged In IMG_8055 1

Northern Italian Mushroom & Truffle Soup

Our Three-Course Lunch Tasting Menus each contained a starter, a main entree, and a dessert of our selection from the available options. Above, my husband indulged in the Northern Italian Mushroom & Truffle Soup for his first of three courses. Made with no butter, cream, or animal fats, we were astounded by the flavorful result.

IMG_8062

Close-Up View of a Spoon of the Northern Italian Mushroom Soup

2.252

Beef Carpaccio

For a mere $3 additional charge to the Three-Course Lunch Tasting Menu, I selected the Beef Carpaccio for my first course. Thinly sliced brilliantly-colored beef created a suitable foundation for the 18-year-old balsamic, multicolored halved cherry tomatoes, hand shaved Parmesan cheese, and white truffle oil. Would it be frivolous to say that this delightful presentation was “heaven on a plate?” We think not!

SkyDrive3

Fig & Olive’s Chicken Tanjine

Served with a side presentation of couscous, Marcona almonds, cilantro pesto, and a spicier addition for those more adventurous, the Fig & Olive Chicken Tajine was a satisfactory conglomeration of flavors for my husband as his main course. The chicken was fall-off-the-bone tender, while the vegetables and nicely seasoned broth was a pleasurable experience.

Fig & Olive7

Fig & Olive Chicken Tajine With Sides of Spices & Couscous

IMG_8084

Paella Del Mar

My eyes wandered to the Paella Del Mar for my entrée. Not only vibrant in color, but outrageously entertaining to the taste buds, this preparation included the aromatic and flavorsome culmination of ingredients such as black tiger shrimp, mussels, and calamari accompanied by a perfectly cooked and visually stunning saffron rice with chicken, green peas, artichoke, red bell pepper, a saffron Aioli, pimento, and oregano, then finished off with Hojiblanco olive oil.

Fig & Olive10

Paella Del Mar

SkyDrive4

Dessert “Crostini”

If you’re having a fight against your sweet tooth, then Fig & Olive is the ideal place to satisfy that craving. Our readers know we don’t usually indulge in too many sweet temptations, but we simply couldn’t pass up the opportunity to sample what Pastry Chef Andrew LeStourgeon was offering when we stopped in. How about a sweet crostini to start the taming of the sugar craving off on the right start? The Dessert “Crostini”, a shortbread foundation built up nicely with an ample spreading of mascarpone, pistachios, micro basil for garnish, and the most flavorful Amarena cherries you’ve ever tasted grace this creation. We loved the expert presentation by Chef Andrew. And the savory flavor of the dark sugar-preserved cherries joined with the creamy mascarpone and shortbread cookie were lovingly joined together on the palate. But there was more. We were somehow transported to a chocolate heaven of sorts upon first bite of the Chocolate Pot De Crème offering. Made with white, milk, and dark chocolates, and served with praline financiers, this frothy-topped seduction of the senses remained no more after my husband and I devoured it graciously. (Sweet tooth yearning sufficiently tamed!)

SkyDrive5

Chocolate Pot De Creme

It was a sincere pleasure visiting Fig & Olive for lunch. Part gourmet market, part phenomenal dining adventure, part culinary dream come true, we will most definitely be returning. Don’t forget to get that perfect gift for a loved one (or for yourself) before you leave. Choose from thirty types of olive oil, balsamic vinegars, sensational spreads, a variety of signature spices, candles…the list is quite comprehensive, yet the place to locate that perfect unique gift for someone special. Take a look at the restaurant’s gourmet market website at www.bestoliveoilstore.com to explore all of their divine items!

Special Thanks: We would like to give our special thanks to Assistant Manager of Fig & Olive, Chris Gonzales, and Angelo for their incredible hospitality and generosity during our dining experience.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Upon initial entry through the front door, patrons are sent on a visual journey of inviting hues, intimate seating arrangements, and a multitude of bottled olive oils, vinegars, and other treasures. Warm colors invite you in while romantic touches welcome you, and sensational aromas of all things heavenly embrace anyone who enters this establishment.
  • FOOD / DRINK: The visual enchantment parallels the flavorful delights Chef Pascal and Chef Andrew prepare for their guests. The presentations will astonish any culinary connoisseur, while the flavors of each dish will enlighten and heighten one’s senses.
  • LOCATION: Fig & Olive is located at 8490 Melrose Place in West Hollywood, CA 90096.
  • HOURS: Lunch is available Monday through Friday from 12 PM to 3 PM, while Brunch is served on Saturdays from 12 PM to 3 PM, and again on Sundays from 11 AM to 3 PM. Dinner is presented Mondays from 6 PM to 10 PM, Tuesday through Thursday from 6 PM to 10:30 PM, Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 PM to 11 PM, and on Sunday evenings from 5:30 PM to 10 PM. The Fig & Olive Lounge is accessible Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 PM to 11 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 PM until 1 AM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: We received exceptional service from our server, Angelo, who not only met our expectations, but surpassed them. We greatly appreciated Angelo’s knowledge, suggestions, and sincerity throughout our dining experience.
  • PRICE / VALUE: An unequivocally outstanding value for the pricing of the enlightening fare at Fig & Olive. Portions were substantial (even on the Three-Course Tasting Menu), the wine we enjoyed was gratifying, and the ambiance of the entire establishment was seductive and memorable.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $35 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: Valet service is available, as well as metered street parking nearby.
  • TOTAL BILL: The wine we enjoyed was $12 a glass, the Trio of Crostinis was $11, and each Three-Course Lunch Tasting Menu was $28 a person. Well worth returning, well worth the splurge, and well worth the experience.

Fig & Olive on Urbanspoon

Fig & Olive Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

BURGER BAR @ MANDALAY BAY RESORT & CASINO… “Gourmet Burgers & Alcoholic Milkshakes!”

Posted on by
36
Twitt

Chef Hubert Keller is widely known for his astounding talents in the kitchen. With his French-born skills learned from working with his family as a child, and then later taken under the wing of highly-acclaimed French chefs as he matured, Chef Keller has delivered a fun, hip concept of “the burger” to the Las Vegas ‘Strip’ for all to enjoy.

We still miss the ever popular Fleur de Lys which sat inside of Mandalay Place years ago. I especially loved dining there with my husband behind the privacy-curtained romantic booths with rich textures and an enchanting wall of aromatic live roses. I used to appreciate when our servers would pluck a pink rose from the enormous frame of fresh flowers and deliver it to me as we would depart after a wonderful meal. The original Fleur de Lys still exists in San Fransisco, however. And today, Chef Keller is proud of his new Fleur restaurant where the former Fleur de Lys sat in all its glory, which now features small plate fare and an open expanse featuring a modernized spacious bar and lounge. In addition to Fleur in Mandalay Place, Chef Keller has also produced Burger Bar, which offers a gourmet burger building experience in a trendy atmosphere sure to win the hearts of visiting patrons. It certainly gained our acceptance upon first bite.

Considered one of the country’s most talented chefs, Hubert Keller has created a gourmet burger design concept that’s both unique and delectable. The eatery is open and the staff seems genuinely friendly, as though they are welcoming you into their home. Dark woods command your attention, while back-lit enhancements are displayed overhead. An enchanting blue light is cast down over the bar area for contrast. Vintage license plates adorn the walls, and seating options include center tables, bar stools, and comfy booths against one wall with small television screens tucked inside wooden columns. A very eclectic, yet charming environment for taking advantage of such a delightful array of American comfort food.

The Wedge

We began our burger-building-adventure experience by selecting The Wedge salad to start. This colorful collection of fresh Iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, and blue cheese crumbles was enhanced even more with blue cheese and bacon dressing, fresh sliced red onion rounds, and everyone’s favorite…crisp crumbled bacon. A wonderful presentation, vibrant colors, and fresh-tasting to the very last morsel.

…THEN CAME THE BURGERS…

There is a simple procedure to ordering burgers at this establishment:

  1. You choose your protein from a selection of ground lamb, ground buffalo, USDA Prime or Black Angus beef;
  2. Next, you choose your bun from a variety of breads like sesame, ciabatta, plain, whole wheat, potato or onion;
  3. Then you choose your toppings from a wide array of items such as grilled onions, various cheeses, seafood, sauces, and other delicious favorites.

If beef isn’t your thing,there are alternate options available as well. Like the Chef’s Veggie Burger, the Marinated Chicken Breast Burger, the Atlantic Salmon Steak Burger, and even a Turkey Burger. All these are ground straight from the source or shaved and hand-formed into a perfectly-shaped patty almost too beautiful to eat. But looking only isn’t allowed at this popular haunt, because once your custom burger is presented before you, you won’t think of anything else but getting your hands around it and devouring your perfect creation.

Atlantic Salmon Steak Burger

I was having difficulty deciding between the Atlantic Salmon Steak Burger and the Marinated Chicken Breast Burger (both $9.50 without additions.) They both sounded so incredibly tempting. Something convinced me to go for the salmon. This heavenly, perfectly-proportioned shaved salmon burger was pleasingly satisfying. The ciabatta bun was hearty and tasteful, and the Brie and grilled onions I chose really kicked the flavor barometer up high amplifying the sandwich with creaminess from the Brie and sweetness from the grilled onions.

Turkey Burger

Burger Bar’s juicy and tasty Turkey Burger is crafted from tender Shelton’s Free Range Farm turkey meat from a locally owned free range farm in southern California. Bursting with flavor, meticulously and lovingly shaped to fit your selected bun, and healthy as well, this burger brings the great taste out in a lighter burger choice. All burgers come with lettuce, tomato, and red onion in addition to the traditional accoutrements.

Irish Coffee Milkshake…With Alcohol!

Why no one thought of adding alcohol to milkshakes before is beside us. Behold, the Irish Coffee Milkshake…coffee ice cream, coffee liquor, Irish whiskey, caramel syrup, and chocolate coffee beans placed in a tall glass then crowned with freshly made fluffy whipped cream. As if we actually HAD room left after sharing a salad and polishing off our burgers! We really didn’t, but we just had to try this milkshake. It’s cool, smooth texture was a highly rewarding taste switch from our burgers, and pleasantly so. The caramel sauce was drizzled in circles in the glass before it was filled with the chilly goodness, which made for a terrific appearance. The combination with shots of coffee liquor and Irish whiskey truly were a flavor sensation one wouldn’t normally expect in a classic milkshake.

Another option is to build your own milkshake. You select the shots of alcohol, the flavor of ice cream, toppings, fruit, sauces, and so on to create something totally unique and sinful (after all, you ARE in Sin City!) Give it a personalized name, but remember what ingredients you order in the event you’ll want to have it again on a future visit to Burger Bar.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: With a trendy sports bar feel, this burger restaurant is comforting, cozy, and inviting. The decibel level of the crowd can get a bit loud…especially at the bar is patrons are enjoying a game…however, we wound up enjoying our experience overall.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Quality ingredients, made-to-suit burger construction, sensational appetizing result once orders are cooked to perfection, flavorsome cocktails, and alcoholic milkshakes! What could possibly be better than that? No wonder there are Burger Bars in St. Louis and San Francisco also!
  • LOCATION: Burger Bar is located in The Shoppes At Mandalay Bay at 3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas, NV 89119.
  • HOURS: Burger Bar keeps very convenient hours serving Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM to 11 PM, then on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 AM to 1 AM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was cordial, polite, helpful, and explained the restaurant’s concept thoroughly.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Gourmet burgers from one of the highest regarded chefs in America for a bit more money than your usual sandwich? Why not? We feel that what we paid for what we received was right on the mark!
  • CORKAGE FEE: We were informed by the restaurant’s hostess that Burger Bar has NO CORKAGE CHARGE! We were surprised, yet pleasantly so.
  • PARKING: We had access from our hotel right into Mandalay Bay, which allowed us to remain indoors on our trek to Burger Bar. However, Mandalay Bay offers valet parking for your convenience as well.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our final bill for a glass of wine, a Wedge Salad, one Turkey Burger on ciabatta bread with grilled onions and cheddar cheese, one Atlantic Salmon Steak Burger with grilled onions and Brie, and one Irish Coffee Milkshake totaled over $50 (including tax), but sat very well with us after such a fulfilling, interesting, and delicious meal.

Burger Bar on Urbanspoon

Burger Bar on Restaurantica

Burger Bar Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

LOUISE’S TRATTORIA… “Wine Down Weekends & Cozy Fireside Tables For Two!”

Posted on by
22
Twitt

You’re in the mood for Italian fare that won’t leave you feeling as though you paid to much for too little. Where do you go? Here’s a suggestion…Louise’s Trattoria. This wildly successful chain of Italian restaurants was started in 1978 and was the winner of the City Search ‘Ten Best Italian Restaurants In Los Angeles’. But we’re not surprised because we’ve experienced this eatery first hand and can report that we have returned, and will return again in the future. Quality ingredients, fresh presentations, friendly and courteous employees, and that special attention from management that makes you feel like you’re part of the family.

With locations in Brentwood, Larchmont Village, Santa Monica, Pasadena, and West Los Angeles, Louise’s knows that most people who enjoy a great Italian meal also appreciate a great vintage to accompany it. That’s why the company has created ‘Wine Down Weekends’. So what are ‘Wine Down Weekends’ anyway? Well, they’re all day Friday, Saturday, and Sunday when the restaurants offer half-off select bottles of wine to their dining patrons. A good deal? We think so. In fact, we’ve taken advantage of this a number of times. And if you’re dining at Louise’s on any other day, the corkage fee is just $10. So bring in that bottle you’ve been waiting to enjoy with a terrific Italian meal and have your server at Louise’s cork it for you there.

Fresh Baked Ciabatta Bread Served With Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinaigrette

Can I just say that the ciabatta bread that Louise’s serves to start your meal is incredibly delicious? This buttery, crisp, garlic-enhanced perfectly baked dough will force you to indulge in a second piece…and maybe even a third. A nice change from the typical variation of bread most restaurants serve.

Sonoma Salad

The Sonoma Salad ($10.50) arrives in all its colorful splendor with baby organic lettuce, sun dried tomatoes, earthy pine nuts, and Sonoma goat cheese enriched with a sensational balsamic vinaigrette dressing. A perfect beginning to a meal at Louise’s, and one that is light and hearty at the same time without being too much before a main course.

BBQ Chicken Pizza

The BBQ Chicken Pizza ($15/Medium) is loaded with plentiful BBQ chicken breast, mozzarella and smoked Gouda cheeses, a zesty BBQ sauce, sweet red onions, and refreshing cilantro. The medium sized pizza could easily feed three adults with no problem. A thin tanned crispy crust underneath creates the perfect base for the ingredients in this menu option.

Chicken Picatta

I love an excellent Chicken Picatta dish. And I certainly received one at Louise’s. The creamy picatta sauce made from pungent capers, lemon, and butter glazes savory chicken breasts, and seasonal vegetables effortlessly, while a side of creamy whipped potatoes offers an added zing with a garlic enhancement.

Tagliatelle Bolognese

Like pasta? Then you should try the Tagliatelle Bolognese ($12.50) at this popular Italian eatery. House-made ribbons of tagliatelle swirled in a heavenly emulsion of sirloin and pork ragu with tomato sauce, herbs, garlic, and red wine. A definite winner in the pasta category for us, this offering was filling and an exciting burst of flavor at the same time.

Chicken Marsala

The rich taste of the Chicken Marsala ($14) with its Marsala wine, fresh and fragrant herbs, shallots, and mushrooms is another variation of a delicious dinner at Lousie’s which employs chicken as its main ingredient. Vibrantly-colored seasonal vegetables and garlic potatoes are added to this entree as well.

There is a wide assortment of traditional sweet selections at Louise’s. From the Tiramisu to the Italian Lemon Cake to the famous Humingbird Cake and other options, there is a sweet finale that is perfect for your taste after a delectable meal at this neighborhood establishment in the heart of Larchmont Village.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Tables are topped with crisp white linens, while large mirrors hang perfectly aligned on the interior walls against soft-toned surroundings and deep wood enhancements throughout the dining space. Outside, sidewalk tables are kept warm in the chilly weather by modern outdoor heaters which also add an element of intrigue to the area.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Flavorsome dishes, terrific deals on wines during the weekends, and consistency from week to week in everything that is prepared here.
  • LOCATION: Louise’s Trattoria restaurants are located across southern California, but the specific locale on Larchmont Boulevard that we frequent is at 232 North Larchmont Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA 90004.
  • HOURS: Louise’s is available for dining Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 10:30 PM, and on Sundays from 12 PM to 9:30 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Sincere concern for customers can be felt at Louise’s. Servers, other staff, and management show that they are truly happy to be serving you.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Realistic pricing for traditional Italian favorites. (Ask your server about the Louise’s Rewards Program to earn points for member discounts on future bills!)
  • CORKAGE FEE: $10 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: Metered parking is available in front of the restaurant and along Larchmont Boulevard.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our bills have never exceeded $40 for the two of us on any occasion thus far.

Louise's Trattoria on Urbanspoon

Louise's Trattoria on Restaurantica

Larchmont Village Wine & Cheese Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

MULHOLLAND GRILL… “A Farewell To A Local Favorite!”

Posted on by
12
Twitt

UNFORTUNATELY, THIS RESTAURANT IS NOW CLOSED.

My husband had frequented the tucked away Mulholland Grill at the top of Beverly Glen Canyon in Bel Air, California years before we were ever even introduced. After we were together, he introduced me to this delightful eatery. Eight years ago was my first visit to Mulholland Grill. Since then, we have frequented this locals’ favorite throughout the years. However, on a recent visit, we were informed that after 16 years of delighting patrons with delectable Italian cuisine, the doors will be closing after this month.

Mulholland Grill

 But the month is not yet over. There is still time to stop in and see what has attracted us to this Tuscan hideaway for so many years. Above, we were presented with fresh baked traditional Italian and crispy flat bread, olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, and a refreshing bowl of chilled fresh-cut tomatoes. A terrific taste combination. Paired with the bottle of wine we brought, it was downright perfect. Candlelight lit the large table reserved just for us on the enclosed patio, and a nearby indoor heater enhanced the area with a flaming glow.

Mulholland Grill2

 Shrimp Casserole 

One of my favorite items on the menu at this chic establishment is the Shrimp Casserole ($15.95) made with large jumbo shrimp lightly sauteed in garlic, vegetables, and white wine then blanketed with a sheet of puff pastry. The dish is then baked in a wood burning pizza oven, and when served to the table, the puff pastry is folded back to reveal the goodness underneath. I could literally eat this entree every evening and never tire of it. The incredible sauce is not spicy in the least, the shrimp are perfectly cooked, the puff pastry is a sinful  taste of starch that cannot be left out, and the aroma…wow. Herbs, fresh ingredients, tomatoes, sauces…all mingle together within the large bowl they are served in. Just heaven to the taste buds.

Mulholland Grill3

Trota Alla Girglia

My husband favored the Trota Alla Girglia ($18.95) this particular evening. Grilled boneless Idaho trout sauteed with asparagus in a light white wine and herb sauce. The addition of garlic potato wedges and fresh steamed vegetables enhanced this already delectable dish. Light, yet filling, this entree was guilt-free and the savory flavors of the combined mild fish, the herbs in the sauce, and the vegetables really offered a rewarding experience.

Mulholland Grill4

 Chocolate Cake Dessert With Vanilla Gelato 

Dinner wasn’t quite over just yet. After our dinner plates were cleared and our wine glasses refilled, we found ourselves ordering Mulholland Grill’s popular Chocolate Cake ($7.95). Try this version…a mouthwatering individual flourless chocolate cake served warm and covered with melted Godiva chocolate, topped with crunchy walnuts, and joined by a martini glass filled with scoops of house made vanilla gelato! (Do we even have to explain how amazing this was?) The perfect conclusion to an unforgettable meal.

We would like to close this article by expressing our appreciative farewell to the staff and owners of Mulholland Grill. For years, you have invited us into your culinary home, tempted us with savory flavorsome cuisine, made us feel like family with the kindhearted way you have always treated us, and romanced us with the cozy intimate environment that has been Mulholland Grill for 16 years. We are certainly sad to see you departing the area, but we know wherever you are led in the future, you will be the Mulholland Grill waiting to welcome us back when you land in your new location. Thank you for years of seamless impeccable service and constantly savory cuisine. We will not forget you.

  • ESTABLISHMENT: We have dined on the intimate patio as well as inside the restaurant. However, we have chosen the romantic patio as our favorite place when dining here. It’s private and more quiet than indoors on a busy evening when the crown inside gets a bit noisy.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh, creatively presented, tasty and will keep you returning for more.
  • LOCATION: 2932 Beverly Glen Circle in Bel Air, CA 90077.
  • HOURS: Lunch is available Monday through Fridays from 11:30 Am to 2:30 PM, Dinner on Monday through Thursdays is presented from 5:30 PM – 10 PM, Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, and on Sundays from 5 PM to 9 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: maria is always a gracious server, while Tido has meticulously and professionally maintained this Cozy Bel Air gem for the enjoyment of his patrons for so many years.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Extremely realistic for a cozy, intimate dinner in a calming romantic environment with a wine list of over 200 vintages spanning from Italy and California wineries.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $15 per 750mL bottle of wine.
  • PARKING: There is ample parking in the lot at the Glen Center, where Mulholland Grill is nestled amongst several other venues.
  • TOTAL BILL: We indulged in the restaurant’s $15 corkage and brought a bottle of one of our favorite wines to accompany dinner, enjoyed the Shrimp Casserole and Trota Alla Girglia entrees, and even indulge in the sinful Chocolate Cake offering for dessert. In all, our total bill came to $63.05 (including tax). Well worth the price for such an amazing evening.

Mulholland Grill on Urbanspoon

Mulholland Grill on Restaurantica

Mulholland Grill Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN… “Santa Monica’s Healthy Flavorsome Dining Option!”

Posted on by
15
Twitt

True Food Kitchen’s culinary concept is simple. Serve seasonal, sustainable, pure fare with great flavor and stunning presentation. This trend-setting establishment plays host to an astounding variety of flavor-packed deliciousness through an array of items on their menu. Several of the options are even gluten free and vegetarian. As a meat eater, my husband was delightfully surprised to find that his meal was so satisfying. As a connoisseur of a savory steak at times myself, I was certainly impressed with the delivery of tastes throughout our dining experience.

Though not gluten-free eaters, we appreciated what True Food Kitchen is doing in regards to their assistance providing gluten free and vegetarian options to the masses. Here, chefs are schooled in the importance of gluten-free meal preparation and are careful to keep gluten-free ingredients in their separate area in the kitchen. My best friend from college has been gluten-free for a very long time, and I know she would enjoy this establishment’s effort to help.

At True Food Kitchen, the cuisine isn’t the only thing that’s delicious and healthy. We tried a couple of the non-alcoholic signature beverages. To our amazement, these were crisp, refreshing, and deserved acclamation due to their intriguing flavors and prominent preparations.

Red Moon Signature Beverage & Oogave Natural Mandarin Keylime Soda

I’ve been guilty of consuming my fair share of traditional sodas. Sometimes, a cold sparkling water just won’t do. True Food Kitchen offers a Signature Beverage and natural soda that changed my mind about those sugar-laden additive-enhanced popular refreshments, however. The Red Moon ($5) is made with ruby red grapefruit juice, yuzu, agave, and soda. Very transformational for this soda lover! My husband tried the Oogave Natural Mandarin Key Lime Soda ($4). A sparking chilled beverage flavored with a Mandarin orange and key lime essence. Poured over a tall glass of ice cubes it’s simply perfect.

Grilled Shrimp Spring Rolls

These crunchy, handmade Grilled Shrimp Spring Rolls ($9) carry no guilt with them, and are an excellent starter to split with another member of your dining party. Rolled with sweet green papaya, soba (buckwheat), and earthy cashews, these heavenly logs of inspirational goodness are served with a tantalizing slightly spicy dipping emulsion, which is  appropriately and festively sprinkled with more cashews and fresh chopped parsley.

Turkey Bolognese

What meat lover? My husband’s entree selection was the Turkey Bolognese ($14). He couldn’t believe there was turkey in this vibrant display of house made noodles, organic ground turkey breast meat, and Parmesan cheese. After a taste of it myself, I had to agree with him that this particular dish was spectacularly beefy despite its main ingredient.

Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Have you ever had spaghetti squash? We have both enjoyed this stringy vegetable that resembles angel hair pasta on numerous occasions in years gone by. But we’ve never had it prepared quite like this before. I ordered this entree, curious to see the result. I was wowed by the visual perfection at first, then realized that my wonderment continued after taking a bite. Made with organic tomatoes, zucchini, a mountain of spaghetti squash, and cheese covering the entire surface. Sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley, I really enjoyed the fresh mozzarella chunks placed discretely in the bottom of the bowl where they melted to a succulent, slightly salty river of gooey satisfaction.

Pomegranate Yuzu Sorbet

The creamy, chilly experience of pomegranate flavor enhanced by yuzu (a traditional Japanese citrus fruit) was the perfect conclusion to our meal. Light, flooding with sweet and tangy flavor, the Pomegranate Yuzu Sorbet ($5) was an excellent choice for a little sweetness after a healthy, deliciously sensational lunch at True Food Kitchen.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Enhanced with a people-watching patio overlooking the business of a busy street in Santa Monica, bright yellow umbrellas arched over tables, and a modern colorful interior, this establishment was a pleasure to visit.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh, colorful, healthy, organic, and a MUST to return to again and again.
  • LOCATION: True Food Kitchen is located at 395 Santa Monica Place -Suite 172 in Santa Monica, CA 90401.
  • HOURS: True Food Kitchen is open Monday through Thursday 11 AM to 9 PM, Fridays from 11:30 AM to 10 PM, Saturdays from 10 AM to 10 PM, and on Sundays from 10 AM to 9 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Efficient, kind-natured, helpful, and happy to see you.
  • PRICE / VALUE: We’re speaking of highly fresh ingredients, organic cuisine and beautifully presented savory fare…hands down a terrific value for the price!
  • CORKAGE FEE: $10 per 750mL bottle.
  • CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 593-8300, Website: http://www.foxrc.com/restaurants/true-food-kitchen/
  • PARKING: Accessible convenient parking is available in the mall parking garage right next door to the restaurant within easy walking distance.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our final bill came to just over $65 (including tax), which was a fine price for an appetizer we shared, two entrees, two specialty beverages, and a dessert.

True Food Kitchen on Urbanspoon

True Food Kitchen Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

 

TREVI @ THE FORUM SHOPPES AT CAESAR’S… “Italian Outdoor Dining In Vegas…Or Is It?”

Posted on by
Reply
Twitt

Within the The Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas exists an Italian eatery you just cannot miss when there. Trevi, named after the famous Trevi Fountain In Rome, offers diners comfortable seating options, stunning modern decor with an Italian aptitude, and scrumptious menu and beverage selections to suit most anyone.

Trevi_Sign

The below photos showcase the front view of Trevi with its expansive ‘outdoor patio’ populated by many. Fixtures glow with a dim romantic light, while the restaurant’s oval shaped 28-seat bar provides patrons with refreshing libations and pleasant conversation from friendly informed mixologists

Trevi2

If you’ve never been to The Forum Shops At Caesar’s Palace, you really should visit it at least once. The ‘outdoor’ appearance truly is pretty spectacular. Though you’re indoors, this shopping and dining area of the property was designed to seemingly bring you out of doors. If you’ve never experienced The Forum Shops, we can understand how that may sound a bit confusing, but the photos below show what we’re talking about. Not only is the massive arched ceiling of the mall artistically crafted to authentically look like the heavens above complete with wispy clouds, but the colors of a fading sunset also enhance this already striking spectacle.

Trevi1

The Fountain of the Gods & the “Indoor” Heavens

Though it’s not the Trevi Fountain, the Fountain Of The Gods in The Forum Shops is a beautiful site. Located beside Trevi, it offers diners and passers-by a transformational experience with its waterfall and breathtaking sculptures and columns. But the view of the Fountain of The Gods and Trevi’s ‘out of doors’ setting and breathtaking architecture and design by the renowned Rockwell Group are not all you’ll discover here…the fine Italian cuisine is another phenomenal part of this exciting Italian locale.

Trevi_Coral Crush

Capri Coral Crush Martini

Here’s a delicious introduction to a sensational meal at Trevi…among the numerous liquid compilations from the bar such as their rich red wines, refreshing Mojitos, and many others, the Capri Coral Crush ($11) was my favorite. Made with Smirnoff Melon Vodka, blended mango, pineapple, guava and passion fruit juice, this flavorsome cocktail was served in a martini glass and is a perfectly chilled frozen treat…with a little something extra!

Trevi_Eggplant Parmesan Appetizer

Eggplant Parmesan Appetizer

Executive Chef Peter Scaturro seriously knows how to keep patrons returning to Trevi with his crafty and succulent Italian fare. Above, The Eggplant Parmesan Appetizer ($9.95) offers sauteed eggplant crowned with a tangy marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and strips of basil highlighting the whole dish. Not only a beautiful and vibrant presentation, but also a delicious one as well.

Trevi_Margherita Pizza

Margherita Pizza

Another tasty bite we enjoyed on our last visit to Trevi was their brick oven fired Margherita Pizza ($13.95). An overwhelmingly flavor filled combination of Roma tomatoes, melty Mozzarella cheese and fresh basil make this 6-serving item perfect for a party of two or four.

A remarkable location for taking a break from shopping at The Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace, meeting friends and family for dinner, or just having a few crisp glasses of vino at the Trevi bar will leave you ready to return for another meal very soon. It did for us, and we think you’ll be happy you stopped in.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Modern decor and architecture designed especially for Trevi by the infamous Rockwell Group architects, relaxing fountain beside the ‘patio’ courtyard, and an appropriate location for people watching in The Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace.
  • FOOD / DRINK: House-crafted wood fire oven pizzas, hand-shaken refreshing chilled cocktails and wine, and a reasonable price tag on every item at this Italian establishment…who wouldn’t love it here?
  • LOCATION: Trevi is located in The Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace at 3500 Las Vegas Boulevard South, NV 89109.
  • HOURS: The restaurant is available for lunch, Happy Hour (called ‘Trevi Time’, and dinner. Hours are Sunday through Thursday 11 AM to 11 PM, and Friday through Saturday from 11 AM to 12 midnight. ‘Trevi Time’ is available Sunday through Friday from 2 PM – 6 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was delightful, knowledgeable about the menu and beverage list, and was a wonderful conversation partner throughout our dining experience.
  • PRICE / VALUE: We were satisfied with the cost of our orders for what we were charged and the location we were visiting.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750mL bottle…hey, it’s Vegas!
  • CONTACT INFO: Phone: (702) 735-4663, Website: www.trevi-italian.com
  • PARKING: On some occasions visiting Caesar’s Palace, we’ve had a driver to deliver us to the facility, while on other trips, we’ve left our vehicle with Caesar’s Palace Valet Department located in front of the main entrance to Caesar’s Palace Casino & Resort.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our bill for one Eggplant Parmesan appetizer, a Margherita Pizza, one Capri Coral Crush, a glass of Merlot and a Mojito totaled just under $65, but we feel it was worth the quality of the food an beverages that were presented along with the terrific ambiance and exceptionally friendly and efficient service.

Trevi on Urbanspoon

Trevi on Restaurantica

Trevi Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

GARDEN BAKERY CAFE… “The BEST Pizza Crust Ever!”

Posted on by
6
Twitt

Here’s an interesting coffeehouse concept…a coffeehouse PLUS a pizza kitchen! We’re not kidding! Garden Cafe in Sherman Oaks, California is a full service restaurant and coffeehouse which offers an intimate outdoor wrap-around patio, free Wi-Fi, some of the BEST pizza we’ve ever remembered enjoying so much, and a private complimentary parking lot for customers. Sound too good to be true? Well, it’s not. Our several occasions visiting this newer haunt in the area proved that Garden Cafe will be around for a very long time in upcoming years.

Coffee, coffee drinks, espresso, iced and hot teas…and now serving select wine and beer,  Garden Cafe has sprung forth into the bustling neighborhood community of Sherman Oaks with gusto. Inside, a soothing Mediterranean and almost Tuscan decor relaxes the mind and soothes the soul. On the patio, bright red and green canvas umbrellas block the sun’s rays when trying to read the latest best seller, strategically placed comfy sofas, patio tables and benches allow for a comfortable and spacious dining experience, and potted plants and fruit trees are accompanies by growing ivy that climbs up arched trellises that greets patron into this intricate and romantic atmosphere.

Hot Green Tea, Steaming Espressoo & the Garden Cafe Menu

So, what about those pizzas that we have been talking about? Well, here are three of the flaky, light doughy creations topped with vibrant colored toppings bursting with interesting flavors…

Pulled Short Rib Pizza

The pizza crust at Garden Cafe truly is artisan. Hand-crafted and wood-fired, baked-to- perfection crusty gems are seemingly baked with a touch of magic. The Pulled Short Rib Pizza ($14) is made with a unique goat cheese sauce with grilled onions, spinach and arugula is a phenomenally beefy flavor experience. We appreciated the edible decor on top of fresh baby arugula and hand-shaved Parmesan cheese. Simple, gooey-cheese-laden, and a magnificent gentle crunch with every bite.

Margherita Pizza

The Margherita Pizza ($8) is a refreshing taste of Italy with its eye-catching tomato sauce and fontina cheese base, fresh Parmesan cheese, and tomato slices. Atop all of this cheesy tomatoey goodness sits slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and bright green fragrant basil. An excellent choice for sharing or ordering for one with leftovers for later!

Forest Mushroom Pizza

After some debate, and many slices of pizza at Garden Cafe, we’ve decided that the Forest Mushroom Pizza ($12) is our favorite of the three we’ve had. Crafted with a garlic-goat cheese sauce with wild mushrooms, roasted garlic, arugula, and a signature cheese blend, a truffle essence is also added to enhance the experience. After our first time indulging in the Forest Mushroom Pizza, we’ve had a hard time going back to the others. The earthy flavor from the mushrooms really offers a sensational flavor enhancement.

Here’s another delicious spin on that traditional round dough-based favorite we all love…how about prosciutto and fig on your gourmet pizza?

3.17

Prociutto & Fig Pizza 

Thin sliced colorful prosciutto, goat cheese, brilliant green arugula, a sweet and savory fig spread, and The Garden Bakery Cafe’s signature cheese blend make this creation a sensation sure to suit anyone who tries it. We loved how this version encompassed  sweet and salty tastes so perfectly.

Chicken Minestrone Soup of the Day With Buttered Garlic Toast

On a chilly day, or any day for that matter, Garden Cafe’s soup selections will certainly hit the spot creating a cozy warmth deep within. I enjoyed the Chicken Minestrone Soup ($6), which arrived in a ceramic soup tureen atop a long presentation platter with garlicky butter graced toast points. This was a hearty soothing liquid with its bright green field peas, fresh sliced carrots, steamed broccoli and shredded white meat chicken swimming in an unforgettable tomato emulsion. Pure delight with each spoonful, this was a thoroughly satisfying selection.

Turkey Club On CIabatta With a House Side Salad

My husband enjoyed the Turkey Club Sandwich ($12) on an artisan ciabatta bun. This enjoyable compilation was assembled with oven roasted turkey, jack cheese, fresh chunks of avocado, smoked bacon, tomato, pickled shallots, and a zesty pesto aioli. The ciabatta bread was excellently toasted, and held together quite nicely throughout the duration of the meal without crumbling or allowing its ingredients to escape. A pleasant chilled house side salad with ample squares of feta cheese, cucumber slices, iceberg lettuce and cherry tomato halves complimented this item with ease.

2.241

Homemade Turkey Meatball Soup

Here’s a treat worth trying for a simple $6…the Homemade Turkey Meatball Soup. This ‘Soup of the Day’ favorite was hearty without being too heavy. Nicely flavored with healthy vegetables and lentils, this guilt-free treat will keep you warm on a chilly day, or satisfy your craving for a hot bowl of homemade soup any other day of the year.

1.26

Smoked Salmon Artisan Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The Smoked Salmon Artisan Grilled Cheese Sandwich ($13.50), was savory and full of satisfying smoked salmon, melted provolone cheese, fresh sliced tomatoes and crisp arugula on sourdough bread. If you’re a grilled cheese fan, this is the place to turn up your senses when it comes to two slices of bread and cheese…Garden Bakery Cafe amplifies that much loved sandwich by adding additional tastes including the above smoked salmon, tomato and basil, pastrami, and even…SHORT RIBS! Take a look at the below Spicy Short Rib Artisan Grilled Cheese Sandwich, and tell us if your mouth isn’t watering right now!

2.242

Spicy Short Rib Grilled Artisan Cheese Sandwich

The Spicy Short Rib Artisan Sandwich ($12) is compiled of sweet grilled onions, fresh spinach, jack cheese, red bell peppers, and a spicy aioli on a ciabatta bun. This sandwich option gives the word mouthwatering an entirely new meaning with it’s tender, juicy pulled short rib meat mixed with perfectly grilled veggies and the most delicious ciabatta bun ever!

And you just cannot forget about the Chinese Chicken Salad. Crafted with chilled Iceberg lettuce, freshly cut cabbage, refreshing carrots, scallions, and tender white meat chicken chicken gently tossed in a ginger-sesame vinaigrette then topped with crunchy wonton strips. Um…is anyone getting hungry about now?

Garden Bakery Cafe

Chinese Chicken Salad

We cannot end this article without telling you about Garden Bakery Cafe’s burgers! Below, the flavors of savory melty American cheese, chunky avocado, pickled jalapeno, onion, Romaine lettuce leaves, mayo, tomato, savory bacon, and 1/2 pound of Angus beef cooked to your specification on a brioche bun left us speechless. (Except for the “oohs” and “ahhs” being yelled by our taste buds with every bite!) Served with perfectly prepared steak fries (those were pretty darn good, as well!), this dish is a hearty and filling selection that would make a terrific meal any time of the week…

Garden Bakery Cafe1

Club Cheeseburger

A fantastic meeting place for having coffee with friends, enjoying the company of family over breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or even just indulging in a pizza on date night with a bottle of wine…the possibilities are endless. And the Garden Bakery Cafe staff will welcome you into their culinary home with a smile on their faces and a full kitchen of delectable menu items to whet your appetite and keep you satisfied

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: A patio courtyard-style coffee shop that in inviting, welcoming, and spacious both indoors and outdoors.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Hand crafted artisan pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and homemade savory soups with fresh flavorful ingredients prepared by Chef Michael, refreshing iced beverages, coffee drinks, and a wine and beer selection in addition.
  • LOCATION: Garden Cafe is located at 4351 Woodman Avenue in Sherman Oaks, CA 91423.
  • HOURS: Garden Cafe is available for service daily from 8 AM to 8 PM for breakfast, lunch and dinner. (Please call ahead for any changes in times due to holiday closings or private parties.)
  • SERVICE / STAFF: The staff at Garden Cafe are wonderful. Friendly, informed, and happy to explain anything about the cafe or the menu, you’ll be in good hands. Emily, Jennifer, and Valerie will steer you in the right direction!
  • PRICE / VALUE: We have never seen any issues with overpricing for the items we have enjoyed. All seems fairly priced for the quality presented.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $10 per 750mL bottle.
  • PARKING: The restaurant provides a complimentary private lot in front of the establishment. If the lot fills, there is also metered street parking available.
  • TOTAL BILL: For parties of two and three we have been a part of on past visits, our final bills have averaged around $30 to $45 depending on what was ordered.

Garden Cafe Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

OCTOPUS JAPANESE RESTAURANT… “Specialty Cuisine Amidst The Azure Lights!”

Posted on by
20
Twitt

There’s a Japanese restaurant in Encino, California that I meet my husband at sometimes when he’s meeting clients in the Valley. It’s called Octopus Japanese Restaurant, and we really favor the freshness of their sushi offerings. Having dined here on numerous occasions, the staff has come to know us pretty well. Upon entering, our server usually knows to bring us a large bowl of their steaming Manila Clam Miso soup and a large sake before we even find our places at the sushi bar. The customer service is a big reason why we keep returning to this trendy intimate dining establishment. We’re going to tell you about the other reason as well…the amazing sushi and sahimi preparations!

The interior is stunning in metallic silvers and dim blue lighting throughout the entire dining area. Beige leather booths surround the outermost perimeters of the space, while an eclectic collection of bottled sake is prominently displayed on modern shelving as patrons enter the front door. A large wrap-around sushi bar invites customers to peruse colorful displays of sahimi, fresh fruit and vegetables, and a friendly staff of sushi chefs. Select walls are also covered in earthy dark gray rock which brings an earthy feel of the outside indoors.

Fresh Sliced Toro Suchi, Hot Sake, Yellowfin Tuna Sushi & Panko-Fried Oysters

The sushi and sashimi prepared by the gentlemen behind the expansive sushi bar will delight you with their charm and culinary talents. We have been amazed by the vibrant displays of colorful fish, elaborate decoration of such, and the flavor of incredible freshness that we always receive from Octopus Japanese Restaurant.

Manilla Clam Miso Soup

This is one of our absolute favorite starters to any meal at this eatery. The Manila Clam Miso Soup ($4.95). A huge modern-styled ceramic bowl of steaming miso soup sprinkled with sliced green onions. A beautiful display of pure liquid delight with a surprise beneath the succulent broth..Manila clams! Tender, perfectly steamed Manila clams are the perfect combination to this spectacular perfectly-flavored soup.

There are numerous sushi rolls available on an extensive menu available for your dining pleasure. Among our favorites are the Alaskan Roll (with baked salmon, tuna, avocado and a spicy mayo drizzled on top), the Blue Crab California Roll (a blue crab meat mixture with cucumber and crunchy asparagus), the Snow Roll (tuna,crab meat,cucumber,avocado and a crunchy exterior), the Sumo Roll (tuna,avocado,asparagus,salmon and crab meat), and the Philly Roll (tuna, cream cheese and cucumber), among an array of others. All fresh, all handmade, all incredibly flavorsome and palatable.

Sumo Roll Wrapped In Cucumber & the Dynamite Roll

Here’s a nice addition most patrons aren’t in the know about. For three dollars more, the skilled sushi chefs will wrap any roll in cucumber instead of rice for those who are trying to keep their carb count down. It’s a very refreshing, low fat, guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite sushi, as we recently discovered for just a few dollars extra. Ready for more rice? Then be sure to try the Dynamite Roll made in a unique way with grilled red onions, sweet sauce, baby scallops, green onions, and a translucent spicy emulsion that is baked into the toppings atop a perfectly-shape California Roll. Sublime to the very last bite.

Green Tea Ice Cream

And whatever you do, (if you have any room remaining after a feast at Octopus Japanese Restaurant) be sure to try the Green Tea Ice Cream. It’s a stunning colorful offering of green tea ice cream, a thin cookie wafer, whipped cream, chocolate sauce and a cherry. Depending on who makes it in the kitchen, you will receive various styles of this chilly treat, but still with all of the same ingredients to top off a fantastic Japanese lunch or dinner.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: A hip atmosphere with trendy alluring blue back-lighting throughout the dining area. Modern seating features with decorative rock walls bring a zen feeling to the establishment.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh sushi with amazing presentation, creativity from the sushi chefs that you will not forget, and sake of numerous variations. Succulent sashimi and unlimited artistry at the sushi bar.
  • LOCATION: Octopus is located at 16733 Ventura Boulevard-Suite 1 in Encino, CA 91316.
  • HOURS: Octopus is available for dining Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM, on Fridays from 11 AM to 11 PM, Saturdays from 11:30 AM to 11 PM, and on Sundays from 12 PM to 10 PM. (Don’t forget to ask about Happy Hour!)
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Efficient, get to know their customers, and offer friendly, courteous service.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Fair prices for the astounding quality of the cuisine prepared.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $10 per 750mL bottle of wine.
  • CONTACT INFO: Phone: (818) 380-0855, Website: www.octopusrestaurant.com
  • PARKING: Available parking is accessible right along the side of the restaurant.
  • TOTAL BILL: We have never exceeded a $50 bill at Octopus for the two of us (including tax) and with sake and soup most visits.

Octopus on Urbanspoon

Octopus Japanese Restaurant Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT PALM BEACH… “Coastal Breezes & Sophisticated Comfort!”

Posted on by
6
Twitt

Gentle coastal breezes that embrace your every move…the salty essence of the breaking surf from an expansive ocean…closing your eyes, even if just for a moment in time, and experiencing complete bliss as velvety smooth sand fills in around your bare feet where you stand. Heaven perhaps? Maybe the next best thing. Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach upholds its stellar reputation by creating a euphoric ambiance for its guests, presenting an upscale dignified glamour for all to enjoy, and offering some of the most luxurious and tranquil accommodations around. Four Seasons selected yet another ideal location when they decided to enter the Palm Beach arena by marking their territory on six acres of immaculate oceanfront property. And this Florida hideaway was just the place for them. The city, also known by locals as ‘Palm Beach Island’ and ‘The Island of Palm Beach’ is the easternmost town in Florida. A barrier island, Palm Beach is 16 miles long, is 65 miles north of popular Miami, and is separated from Lake Worth and West Palm Beach by the Intracoastal Waterway. A sophisticated beach neighborhood invites those from afar, and greets those who are around on a daily basis projecting a feeling of family…even among strangers. This upscale close-knit community is proud of what they have created.

The interior of the Four Seasons Resort in Palm Beach is everything one could imagine. Classic, sophisticated, elegant. Upon first approach, uniformed smiling attendants greet guests as they assist with luggage and escort arriving parties inside. Ushered to the registration area along an elaborate entrance of columns and travertine and marble in soothing tones, the staff takes great pride in their customer service proficiency as guests’ reservations are confirmed and seamless registrations are expertly executed.

Main Entrance, Lobby Lounge, & Stunning Floral Arrangements

I am always enamored by Four Seasons’ extravagant floral arrangements. Not once have we visited one of these locations and not been awed by multiple unique centerpieces throughout the properties.

Premier Ocean View Suite

The Premiere Ocean View Suite offers breathtaking views of the surf and expansive perspectives of the Palm Beach coastline. Above, our guest quarters allowed for relaxation and enjoyment with an extended balcony, living room, additional powder room, and ample mobility within the master bedroom and connecting bath. We enjoyed the sunset and sunrise views from the patio before and after meetings my husband was attending, and found time to enjoy resort amenities while we were there.

Resort Pool Bar, View of the Pool Terrace & Private Cabanas

The resort pool is intricately surfaced with Egyptian limestone, while private cabanas offer shade from the sun’s rays. Chilled towels, Evian spritzes and iced water are always complimentary here as well as seasonal fruit treats and sunglass cleaning for in-house guests. Lush landscape and perfectly-positioned comfortable lounge furniture is enhanced by an inviting whirlpool and the tucked-away pool bar that will cater to your every desire as ocean breezes play puppetry with towering palms in celebration of visiting guests and returning locals.

The Ocean, the Pool Terrace, Mojitos On the Beach & Sand and Surf

Several hours of free time allowed us a relaxing visit to the beach upon our arrival. There, we found a secluded section of beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas awaiting us. Fresh towels in abundance and iced water was served, and we were presented with two hand-shaken Cuban mojitos from the pool bar almost instantly. Removing my sandals and digging my toes into the warm soft sand beneath me was heavenly. The fresh muddled mint and lime in my cocktail was refreshing and cooling in the warm afternoon sun, and the comforting view of the untouched turquoise splendor before us placed us in a state of contentment. The temptation to spend the night in that very spot as we watched the sun setting over the horizon hours later crossed our minds more than once, but we finally relented and returned to our suite to prepare for dinner that night.

Unmistakable elegance abounds as far as the eye can see from the tides of an azure ocean to the smooth silken sand along the coastline to the memorable sunsets that remain in your memory forever, while thoughts of crafting plans to return here come into your mind immediately…even before your trip is halfway over.

A Plethora of Meal Options Available Through In-Room Dining

The Four Seasons Palm Beach Resort offers outstanding renewal and relaxation for anyone requiring a little break from the daily grind. Besides the fantastic dining options on property, the city offers cafes and eateries that open their doors right onto the sidewalks creating a welcoming environment for all who pass by. A subtle calmness, a seamless tranquility, and a relaxed understood declaration of open invitation fills the air among a town that commands simple enjoyment for all.

  • PROPERTY: Four Seasons Palm Beach will surround you in tranquility and make you realize that sometimes it pays to remember to take it slow, take a breath, and just enjoy life.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our experience with the staff at this specific Four Seasons property was delightful. Each associate we came into contact with was professional, caring, went out of their way to assist if needed, and knowledgable about the property and surrounding community.
  • PET FRIENDLINESS: We’re happy to report that Four Seasons Palm Beach is extremely pet friendly to both felines and canines. Our traveling kitty accompanied us on the trip, and the hotel staff couldn’t have been more happy to welcome her to the property.
  • DINING OPTIONS: GRAZE- Amongst poolside gardens, Graze offers three meals daily serving fresh handcrafted fare. Breakfast is presented from 7 AM – 11:30 AM, lunch is offered from 11:30 AM – 2 PM, while dinner is available from 5:30 PM – 10 PM. ATLANTIC BAR & GRILL is the island’s only authentic beachfront outdoor eatery! Just steps from the ocean, lunch can be enjoyed from 11:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Happy Hour is lively and entertaining from 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM, and cocktails are served from 10:30 AM to 7 PM. A third sensational gastronomical experience at the Four Seasons Palm Beach is their fine dining establishment, THE RESTAURANT. This upscale, yet coastal casual feeling seafood dining experience will thrill your taste buds with fresh sustainable dinner delights daily crafted by Chef from 5:30 PM – 10 PM. The Restaurant also allows for outdoor dining on an elaborate terrace where patrons can enjoy ocean breezes and a bit of romance in the air. THE RESTAURANT BAR & LOUNGE is located inside The Restaurant, and served hand-shaken libations from 4:30 PM until 10 PM when the establishment closes for the evening. Additonally, THE LIVING ROOM, which is the lobby lounge on property, offers light entrees, cocktails and dessert selections seasonally May 16 through December 15 from 9 PM until Midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, then December 16 through May 15 guests can delight in longer hours with The Living Room being open Sundays through Thursday from 4:30 PM to 10 PM, and also on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30 to Midnight.
  • LOCATION: The Four Seasons Palm Beach Resort is located at 2800 South Ocean Boulevard in Palm Beach, FL 33480.
  • PARKING: Parking is handled by the resort valet attendants for the convenience of in-house guests and visitors.
  • RESORT AMENITIES: Amenities include three restaurants, an outdoor pool, an outdoor tennis court, a health club, a steam room, a full-service spa, 24-hour business center services with meeting rooms, Wi-Fi available for a nominal surcharge, a sizable banquet area, a ballroom, a coffee shop/cafe, a children’s club, Concierge services, and much more.

* Rates, menus & prices subject to change without notice.

BLUE DOG BEER TAVERN… “Burgers & Brews In a Dog-Friendly Atmosphere!”

Posted on by
6
Twitt

We’re not huge beer fanatics, but we found a spot that caters to the beer lover that also crafts pretty phenomenal burgers as well. Blue Dog Beer Tavern opened in 2009 after being birthed from a remodel of a 1940s California bungalow-style building originally erected to house a physician’s office. Years later, someone got the great idea to turn that structure into Blue Dog Beer Tavern, a neighborhood hangout for locals and visitors from afar who are lucky enough to be ‘in the know’ about this friendly local canteen.

 During the renovation of this now popular haunt, original beams were left exposed to showcase the intricacy of the authentic construction of the building. It’s quite impressive when you enter the tavern. Patrons can literally see ‘through’ the walls inside. It certainly makes for a terrific conversation piece while dining or enjoying a refreshing beverage while watching a favorite sports game on one of several monitors near the bar. Another fun sight is the collection of framed photos of canines everywhere one can look inside. Have a furry friend? Bring in a photo and Blue Dog’s staff will frame the image and hang it somewhere inside the tavern!

With eight beers on tap, over 25 bottled brews, and a decent selection canned as well, there’s an ale here for every beer lover. There are also a few select wines available in addition.

How about those burgers? Blue Dog Beer Tavern was listed by CBS as one of the best burgers in the valley, while L.A. Weekly voted the eatery one of the “best sports bars in Los Angeles”. Powerful comments from such strong sources. But frankly, we feel that Blue Dog deserves the recognition.

Blue Dog Burgers, Fries and Purple Cabbage Slaw

From the root beer BBQ sauce to the artisan potato buns to the 1/3 pound house-ground brisket/chuck compounded burgers crafted by hand, the kitchen at Blue Dog knows what they’re doing when it comes to satisfying hungry customers an leaving them happily returning. Try the Fire Starter burger loaded with jalapenos, the Black ‘n Bleu Burger with it’s Cajun spices and bleu cheese, or maybe the Italian Supermodel with provolone, meaty pepperoni, fresh basil, Parmesan cheese and a phenomenal marinara sauce. Lots of flavors to chose from, and many more sandwiches an menu options as well.

Crisp Mouthwatering Salads and Cole Slaw

If you’re not in the mood for one of Blue Dog’s mouthwatering burgers, there’s always one of several colorful crisp salads to please those hunger pangs. Try The Sherman with chicken breast meat tossed in root beer BBQ sauce mixed with bits of yellow corn, hearty beans and crunchy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, bibb and green leaf lettuces and shredded cheddar cheese. Or the vegan Spa Salad containing a variety of beans, dried cranberries, almonds, avocado and just for fun (and flavor), Blue Dog’s house-whipped pear-vanilla dressing!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Exposed beams throughout, framed photos of canines covering nearly every inch of the interior, fun and lively atmosphere.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Spectacular burgers, fresh tasty filling salads, a variety of beers and a few wines available.
  • LOCATION: Blue Dog Beer Tavern is located at 4524 Saugus Avenue in Sherman Oaks, CA 91403.
  • HOURS: Blue Dog Beer Tavern opens its door for business Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 11 PM, and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 11 PM. Happy Hour is presented Monday through Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM, offering select beer and food items from $2.99 – $4.99.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: We’ve always experiences kind, courteous service by the staff at Blue Dog.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Exceptional value for what’s ordered at this location. We’ve enjoyed Blue Dog’s incredible burgers and refreshing salads on multiple ocassions with no complaints about the prices.
  • CORKAGE FEE: No outside alcohol is permitted inside the restaurant.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our bills have never gone above $35 for the two of us.

The Blue Dog on Urbanspoon

The Blue Dog Beer Tavern Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

CHABLIS FOOD + WINE RESTAURANT… “Mandarin Cosmopolitans and European-Influenced Cuisine!”

Posted on by
10
Twitt

Chablis Food + Wine is a favorite location for a romantic dinner comprised of fresh flavorsome ingredients, a fine wine you’ve never tried before at the bar, or a very accommodating location to enjoy meeting up with friends for a fabulous wine dinner in the private dining room complete with a comforting fireplace and easy access to the spacious outdoor patio.

The main dining room is very inviting, as are the private banquet rooms in the rear of the establishment where we have personally been invited to share in numerous wine dinners. The entire restaurant as a whole offers a satisfying ambiance…friendly, romantic, and cozy.

Patrons can tell that Chablis Food + Wine’s own Executive Chef, Jorge Vasquez, enjoys what he does in the kitchen behind the scenes at this inviting establishment. The flavorful offerings are elegantly displayed and have never let us down. Below, several of Chef Vasquez’s culinary creations of savory goodness…

Fresh-From-the-Oven Crusty Bread and a Mandarin Cosmopolitan

The bread service at Chablis Food + Wine is an outstanding beginning to a fantastic meal.  Served atop a wine bottle-shaped wooden cutting board with a large slice of sweet cream butter sits the most sensational crusty-on-the-outside-yet-tender-on-the-inside freshly baked bread just waiting to be devoured. Above, I relished in a Mandarin Cosmopolitan ($10) made with Absolut Mandrin, Dekuyper Triple Sec, lime juice and cranberry juice. A lovely way to relax before ordering an outstanding dinner.

Chef’s Soup of the Day

The Chef’s Soup of the Day ($6) was an indulgent seafood bisque-like creation that was  comforting and topped with a heaping mound of lump crab meat. A sheer delight, and not crafted with too much cream in the recipe, which we both enjoyed.

Caesar Salad

My husband enjoyed Chablis Wine + Food’s Caesar Salad presentation ($8). Assembled with chilled fresh Romaine hearts, perfectly-salted anchovies, a smooth and creamy Caesar dressing then topped with fresh shaved Parmesan cheese accompanied by a single crostini instead of traditional croutons. Light, yet hearty, this choice was a fine salad to share before receiving our dinner entrees.

Burrata and Tomato Salad

There’s that burrata again! It seems to have been popping up on most every menu as of late. This excellently-presented and visually appealing Burrata and Tomato Salad ($8) combined the flavors of creamy burrata with the freshness of sliced beefsteak tomatoes and fresh leaves of bright green basil all doused with a savory extra virgin olive oil and a drizzle of tangy and sweet balsamic vinegar. Another starter selection that is great to share between two people, as my husband and I have done on several occasions.

Marinated Lemon Herb Chicken

I know, it’s chicken. But it’s not JUST chicken. This is Chablis Food + Wine’s Marinated Lemon Herb Chicken ($19) loaded with sliced mushrooms, a potato puree beneath and roasted vegetables in a savory scrumptious lemon-essenced sauce. This was the dish I ordered on our last visit to the restaurant, and I’m still thinking about it today!

Beef Skirt Stroganoff 

Now here’s a real winner. If you’re a stroganoff lover, and a beef lover, and a goat’s cheese lover…then this is the perfect menu option for you. As an adamant admirer of all three of these foods, I have to admit that this Beef Skirt Stroganoff ($19) is like heaven in a bowl. The al dente preparation of the penne pasta tossed with flavorful tomatoes and mushrooms embrace tender chunks of beef throughout then is topped with huge dollops of creamy tangy goat’s cheese. Perfection!

Baked Alaska

Here’s a lovely finish to a wonderful meal at Chablis Food + Wine! Their Baked Alaska ($8). Luscious vanilla ice cream atop a cake base then topped with meringue and baked to perfection, drizzled with a taste of raspberry syrup and completed with cookie crumbs around the plate.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Warm hued walls, dark trim throughout, white tablecloths draped across clean palates ready for the chef’s creations to be presented, and a welcoming impression from the second you enter this establishment to the moment you leave. Intimate rooms are available for private parties in the rear of the restaurant, and a spacious patio for outdoor dining is also available.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fine wine selections, chilled hand-shaken, flavorful signature cocktails, and delectable European-influenced cuisine will prove to your taste buds that this is where you need to be. Meals are prepared with a creative flair and we can’t remember ever visiting without finishing the very last bite on our plates.
  • LOCATION: Chablis Wine + Food is located at 18588 Ventura Boulevard in Tarzana, CA 91356.
  • HOURS: Chablis Wine + Food is available for lunch Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 AM – 2 PM. Dinner is served Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM, and on Friday and Saturday from 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM. The bistro hosts a terrific Happy Hour Tuesday through Friday from 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM featuring appetizers from $4 to $7, wines by the glass and well brand cocktails for $5 each, and draft beer for $4. ‘Wine Tasting Wednesdays’ offer guests wine flights featuring three diverse wines and live music between $12 and $16 per person each week as well.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: The table service has never disappointed us, and the staff as a whole has always been welcoming each time we’ve dined at this establishment.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Reasonable prices, excellent quality of American cuisine with a European touch, and a terrific value for the money overall.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $5 per 750mL bottle…we’re not complaining!
  • PARKING: Valet parking is available for the restaurant, however we’ve never had trouble locating a metered parking space along Ventura Boulevard in close proximity to the eatery.
  • TOTAL BILL: Depending on what you’re drinking, how many bottles of wine you bring with you, and what is ordered, the final bills will vary, of course. However, we have visited on numerous occasions, and the most we’ve ever spent between drinks, appetizers, salads, main entrees, and dessert has been just over $80.

Chablis Food + Wine on Urbanspoon

Chablis Food Plus Wine Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

THE HUNGRY CAT… “It’s The Cat’s Pajamas!”

Posted on by
10
Twitt

Proudly showcasing The Hungry Cat locations in Hollywood, Santa Barbara and Santa Monica, the proprietors of this sassy upscale, yet casual seafood restaurant can be proud of their accomplishments. The packed houses that arrive prove to the owners, the staff and locals that this is certainly a terrific place for a fun lively atmosphere, a great environment for providing fresh seafood and libations to customers, and a trendy relaxing…and we must say…visually appealing location between the calming ocean blue of the restaurant’s facade, it’s convenient multi-area dining space inside, and the restaurant’s stunning location along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Our last visit to The Hungry Cat was to the Santa Monica location, and we were happy to discover how much we approved of this perfect locale by the ocean. We began with cocktails at a table on the patio. The crowded interior was nice to see, but the noise level at 6 PM that evening was a lot more subtle on the patio. It’s not a large outdoor dining area, but a charming and well-appointed one. Small tea light candles are lit and placed in holders atop the tables out of doors. The space is well taken care of by management, and it’s evident that they made a point to cater to as many details as possible to invoke a pleasant and even romantic atmosphere here.

Above, a seasonal cocktail list, a view of The Hungry Cat menu, and the cover of the eatery’s beverage menu cleverly titled ‘Thirsty Cat’, which I thought was a genius idea. Below, we indulged in a signature Greyhound Proper ($12) cocktail made with Plymouth Gin, fresh grapefruit juice, and candied grapefruit. We also delighted in a traditional Lemon Drop Martini ($13) , which was excellently prepared and served in a vintage Champagne glass with a sugared rim.

Signature Greyhound Proper and a Traditional Lemon Drop Martini

The Hungry Cat caters to the seafood lover. If you are in search of fresh, coastal, stunningly-presented delicious seafood, The Hungry Cat is a sure bet for finding that. Our meal began with a two-tier ‘Fruit Of The Sea’ platter ($85) that provided Alaskan Snow Crab, Maine lobster, large prawns, and succulent clams and oysters. This was almost a meal in itself, as you can see in the photos below. Fresh-tasting, served on ice at the perfect temperature, and visually pleasing to the eye as well.

Two-Tier ‘Fruit of the Sea’ Platter

Once the elaborate seafood platter had been devoured and the remnants were removed from our dining table, we continued on. I favored the Dungeness Crab Salad ($14) with green papaya, heirloom melon, green curry and peanuts. At this point, I had eaten so much between the crab salad and the seafood platter, I wasn’t sure I would have any room left for more! This salad was light, yet filling enough to enjoy as an entree. A glass of Champagne also pairs nicely with this dish, as I found out! Sizable chunks of Dungeness crab were tossed with fragrant juicy green papaya, while the nuts rounded off the entire presentation with an earthy-tasting delightful crunch.

Dungeness Crab Salad

My husband opted for the Prosciutto Wrapped Sea Bass ($28), which possessed phenomenal flavor combinations. Tender and flaky, the meat of the fish was enhanced with Swiss chard, a lima bean puree, and a salsa rustica that just called out for its photo to be taken. This was a delightful offering, and one we are sorry to not see on the menu anymore.

Prosciutto Wrapped Sea Bass

I suppose I found a bit of room remaining after dinner after all, because when my husband ordered the Blueberry & Ricotta Beignets With Meyer Lemon Curd ($6), I happily consumed half of it. These flavorful bites of sweet beignet dough were filled with warm ricotta cheese and blueberry compote bursting with flavor and wonderment. The adversity of the slightly tart Meyer lemon curd sauce was a favorable contrast to the sugary taste of the entire presentation, and complimented it magnificently.

Blueberry & Ricotta Begniets With Meyer Lemon Curd

The Hungry Cat in beautiful Santa Monica was a fantastic romantic dinner locale for us. Sit on the intimate patio, or dine at an indoor table or at the raw bar. Wherever you sit here, you’re sure to have a memorable experience as we did.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: An upscale seafood house casual enough to feel relaxed as you enter. A welcoming beachy nautical feel persists inside, while a more private intimate outdoor patio area exists for dining as well.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fresh quality seafood, stunning entree presentations, and outstanding flavor-filled cocktails.
  • LOCATION: The Hungry Cat is locate at 100 West Channel Road at Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, CA 90402.
  • HOURS: The Hungry Cat in Santa Monica is open for dinner Monday through Sunday from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM and on Friday and Saturday from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM. The bar opens Monday through Friday for Happy Hour and for access to the raw bar inside. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 3 PM with the raw bar and cocktails offered all day on the weekends.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Friendly, courteous servers assist with most anything you can think of from entree suggestions, to wine pairings, to the perfect cocktails to enjoy before dinner.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Fair prices for the quality fresh seafood and other items available. There’s no doubt that we will be returning to experience it all over again.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $35 per 750mL bottle with a two-bottle limit per visit.
  • CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 459-3337, Website: www.thehungrycat.com
  • PARKING: Valet parking is provided for your convenience at the main entrance to the restaurant.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our final bill came in around $180 (including tax), but we’d do it again in a heartbeat. Well worth the splurge. And well worth the experience.

Hungry Cat on Urbanspoon

The Hungry Cat Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

J&G STEAKHOUSE… “Chef John-Georges Enhances Camelback Mountain!”

Posted on by
2
Twitt

Perched atop the AAA Five Diamond Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona with an unforgettable comprehensive perspective of the Sonoran Desert and Camelback Mountain sits J & G Steakhouse. A recipient of numerous awards and accolades, this John-Georges Vongerichten establishment possesses a modern upscale ambiance and a menu crafted by the Michelin-starred chef. J & G Steakhouse encompasses everything from premium savory meats to savory fish from around the world to luscious desserts…all within a sophisticated, yet welcoming steakhouse just waiting to please your every culinary desire.

The main entry of The Phoenician is graced with the sound of flowing water from the moment you arrive to the minute you step inside. Appealing sculptures accompany the continuous intonations from fountains and small pools long after you’ve exited your vehicle. Immediately, you are relaxed and delivered to a place of tranquil zen, which is a delightful preamble to the cuisine awaiting you at J & G Steakhouse. Once upstairs at the restaurant, Chef de Cuisine Jacques Qualin is hard at work in the kitchen preparing menu selections created with local ingredients and the perfect seasonings to make each meal that is sent out to dining patrons simply exquisite.

Designed by noted architect David Rockwell, J & G Steakhouse possesses classic steakhouse surroundings combined with cleverly appointed modern touches. A voluminous outdoor dining terrace complete with a large circular fire pit caters to those who prefer to dine al fresco, while a widespread picturesque view of Camelback Mountain and the Sonoran Desert captivate everyone’s attention at first glance. Alluring hues of golds, purples and reds are dispersed throughout this fine dining breadth and complimented with soft lighting in every sector of this establishment.

Valley views take your breath away, while butcher-block-topped tables and elegant rounded leather booths remind you that you are in a steakhouse. Intriguing design draws your eye here and there, and the aromas of fresh bread baking, tender steaks grilling and other such delights begin to flow easily from the kitchen to the dining areas with ease and gracious appreciation from guests.

Raspberry Martini, Champagne and a Glass of Pinot Noir

Once escorted to our table and seated, our cocktail orders were taken and delivered promptly. The above photo presents several beverages we enjoyed during our meal. Each was flavorsome, fresh-tasting, and my Raspberry Martini ($13) was made with fresh muddled raspberries and hand-shaken to perfection then served in a vintage-style Champagne glass.

Fanny Bay Oysters

Maybe we went a little crazy with the fresh oysters on the half shell at J&G Steakhouse, but after trying four of them, we just had to have more. I bet our readers can guess which type of oysters the above sensations were. Anyone? That’s right! They were Fanny Bay oysters ($3.25/piece) with all the creaminess and mild flavored texture one could imagine. They were furnished atop perfectly chilled beds of ice and accompanied by multiple sauces and wedges of refreshing lemon. The above photo shows just how large they were. We almost couldn’t believe it ourselves!

Chilled Cucumber and Avocado Soup

After enjoying the delectable fresh oysters and a couple of cocktails, we were served our dinner selections. I decided upon the restaurant’s Neighborhood Menu ($39), which consists of three courses and a select adult beverage of my choosing. My first course was the above Chilled Cucumber & Avocado Soup. Garnished with shredded fresh basil and sweet tangy raspberries and blackberries, this starter was a phenomenal beginning to a memorable dining experience. The creamy mild flavor of the pureed cucumber and avocado was extremely pleasing and I thoroughly enjoyed every bite. The fresh seasonal berries offered a contrasting flavor of sweetness to the mild flavor of the soup and the shredded fresh basil gave the entire dish a slight peppery flavor while enhancing the vibrant color of this presentation.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

My second of three courses arrived next with an exemplary appearance. Two thick organic chicken breasts flattened, coated in Parmesan cheese and Japanese breadcrumbs, then baked to a crispy perfection and situated atop a basil-lemon butter sauce beside tender stalks of white asparagus. I loved the conglomeration of crunchy and tender when taking my first bite of this entree…and the second…and the third. The suitable seasoning of the chicken mixed very well with the succulent butter sauce, which was enhanced with elongated strips of bright green basil for a touch of color.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Interior View

Ah, yes…the popular Filet Mignon ($35.) Guess who ordered this fine 8-ounce beauty! This dinner choice arrived in front of my husband as I received my Parmesan Crusted Chicken. If there were two words to describe my husband’s thoughts about his steak, they would have to be “UTTER HAPPINESS”. The beef was prepared to a flavorful, juicy, medium wellness, while the grilled exterior was expertly seasoned and joined by southwestern bell peppers, a side of Bearnaise sauce and a black pepper jam condiment.

8-Ounce Filet Mignon With Bearnaise & Black Pepper Jam Sauces

An order of J & G Steakhouse’s Creamed Spinach ($9) was not only creamy, but filling and delicious as well. It just sounded too good to pass up, and it is one of my husband’s favorite side dishes to enjoy with a wonderful steak. I detected a touch of nutmeg and a hint of basil in this creation, which made for an amiable combination of tastes.

Side of Irresistible Creamed Spinach

For dessert, my third course was the Chilled Raspberry Puree with fresh blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, and a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt crowned with a crisp biscotti-style almond cookie. This arctic-temperatured dish of liquid excitement was tangy, sweet, and lacked nothing in the flavor department. It addressed every taste bud and finished my meal off quite nicely.

Chilled Raspberry Puree

In all, our experience at J & G Steakhouse was pleasing to the palate, fondly memorable, and altogether a bountiful experience. We look forward to visiting again in the near future to repeat our enjoyable culinary experience of flavors.

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Classic steakhouse ambiance with a modern motif throughout. Upscale, yet welcoming and enjoyable in all aspects of the establishment.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Fine cuisine preparations, refreshing and savory beverages, appealing visual appearance, and perfectly-dispensed portions.
  • LOCATION: J & G Steakhouse is located at the Phoenician Resort at 6000 East Camelback Road in Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
  • HOURS: The establishment serves dinner Sunday through Thursday from 5 PM to 10 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 PM – 11 PM. The bar is available daily beginning at 5 PM except on Thursdays, which is when it is reserved for the restaurant’s Happy Hour from 4 PM to 7 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was Anthony. He was courteous, efficient, and extremely knowledgeable about wine pairings and the dinner menu.
  • PRICE / VALUE: J & G Steakhouse is a John-Georges Vongerichten eatery. Just as our review on Dune Restaurant & Bar at the One & Only Ocean Club in the Bahamas showcased the fine excellence and culinary talents of Chef Vongerichten, so do we with this article. An extraordinary evening for the two of us was well worth the cost.
  • CORKAGE FEE: Outside alcohol is not allowed into the restaurant.
  • PARKING: Complimentary valet parking is offered at the main entry to The Phoenician, while convenient self parking is also available on property.
  • TOTAL BILL: Everything tallied, our dining experience totaled right over $150. Worthwhile, memorable, and definitely worth the splurge!

J&G Steakhouse (The Phoenician) on Urbanspoon

J&G Steakhouse on Restaurantica

J&G Steakhouse Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.