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

Posted on April 28, 2013 by savo0429

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 The Shrimp & Artichoke Dip, Fried Mozzarella, and Cheese Stuffed Jalapeno Soft Pretzel have been replaced by the Queso Fundido for $6 (a blend of melted mozzarella, cream cheese and goat cheese with spinach, chorizo and corn salsa with flour tortilla chips), Chicken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: TBA

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (843) 785-4950, Website: www.blackmarlinhhi.com

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 a maximum of four people in our party including food and drinks.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on April 19, 2013 by savo0429

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.

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.

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.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 550-8811, Website: www.thepalm.com

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.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on April 14, 2013 by savo0429

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.

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…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 824-3322, Website: www.napavalleygrille.com

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).

* Menu and pricing subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on March 26, 2013 by savo0429

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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!

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!

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.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (818) 784-1694, Website: www.pfchangs.com

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.

* 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.

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

Posted on February 2, 2013 by savo0429

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.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on January 21, 2013 by savo0429

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!

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (818) 343-9100, Website: www.chablisca.com

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.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

VINO WINE & TAPAS ROOM… “Live Music, Delicious Tapas & Savory Wine: A Perfect Trio!”

Posted on December 20, 2012 by savo0429

Vino Wine & Tapas Room is the sort of place where wine and tapas meet with a pleasant mix of savory and scrumptious. It is where local entertainment will thrill those with a love for live performance music and where one can find a calming, relaxed, and casual ambiance to get lost in. This restaurant preserves for its customers a place to get away for a while from the everyday anxieties of the world to just relax, center, and enjoy a delicious glass of vino and a combination of varied tapas items specifically crafted to please the palate. Only the best elements are hand-selected to prepare vibrant and palatable presentations of flavor. Most of the ingredients used here are from California’s local farms, allowing the restaurant to partake in fueling our local economy as well as providing local fresh fare to dining patrons.

The main entry to this establishment is highlighted by a red neon sign with the wine room’s logo high above the front door, while most evenings, a roaring fire atop a rolling pedestal sits in front of the eatery drawing attention to passers-by enticing them to stop and see what lies inside.

The wine selection here is immense. Several pours are from bottles that aren’t even available for public purchase! So try something new, enjoy a favorite you’ve had for years, or mix it up a little, because Vino Wine & Tapas Room is the ideal location to do just that. From rich reds, to crisp whites, to delightful house-made sangrias, you won’t leave craving anything other than another visit in the near future.

Al Pequino

We’ve experienced a variety of the tapas items here, and we have been pleased by them all. One of my favorites, I have to admit, is the Al Pequino ($5). Spanish white anchovies with a refreshing cucumber salsa atop a crunchy toasted sliced baguette base. The not-too-salty flavor of these anchovies combined with the light crunch of the cucumber and crunchy bread was a pleasant conglomeration, while the Cabernet I sipped on as I devoured this dish went very well with the contrasting flavors. A lovely light Chardonnay would have been my preference with this tapas selection, but I was delighted to see just how amazing a fine red wine complimented the array of tastes as well.

Albondigas

The Albondigas ($5) are Spanish meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, which is another tapas my husband and I delighted in during one of our visits to Vino Wine & Tapas Room. The term ‘albondigas’ is Spanish for ‘meatballs’. Typically served in Mexican soup, this version is served ‘tapas’-style plated with a delectable hearty sauce atop perfectly-shaped meatballs.

Eggplant Crujiente

If you enjoy eggplant, or like it to any degree, you simply must try the Eggplant Crujiente ($5) at Vino Wine & Tapas Room. Eight slices of visually-appealing eggplant are baked to a crunchy finish, then drizzled with sweet honey. ‘Crujiente’ in Spanish translates to ‘crisp’ in English, explaining these crisp discs of tender eggplant prepared so perfectly, then enhanced by a candied essence of syrupy sweetness.

Mon Berenjena

Our readers know that goat’s cheese is a favorite love of mine! So trying the above tapas item was something I couldn’t leave without sampling. The Mon Berenjena ($5) is a spoon of creamy tangy goat’s cheese with herbs delicately rolled in a slice of tender pan-seared eggplant. The flavor combination of this tapas is out of this world between the creamy goat’s cheese, the earthy touch of the eggplant and the garnish of micro greens.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Warm tones abound with mellow lighting, soothing live entertainment, and a variety of flavorful tapas and wine options. The large wine bar is large and roomy, while cafe tables in the main area of the dining room allow for more intimate conversation.

FOOD / DRINK: Bursting with flavor, the tapas selections we have tried have all been wonderful, wine tastings have been enjoyable, and our food and beverage orders have always arrived in a timely manner.

LOCATION: Vino Wine & Taps Room is located at 18046 Ventura Boulevard in Encino, CA 91316.

HOURS: This establishment is available for service Monday through Thursday from 4 Pm – 12 Midnight, Fridays and Saturdays from 4 PM – 1:30 AM, and on Sundays from 11 AM – 12 Midnight. Wine Tastings are available every Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM – 4 PM for just $25/person.

SERVICE / STAFF: Friendly, knowledgeable, efficient and happy to offer suggestions about the wine, food, and establishment.

PRICE / VALUE: Not too bad for what is received for the price here. Delicious tapas selections, savory wines (some of which aren’t even available to the general public), and friendly servers in a relaxed atmosphere.

CORKAGE FEE: $12 per 750mL bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (818) 343-2525, Website: www.vinowineroom.com

PARKING: Metered parking spaces are available in front of the restaurant along Ventura Boulevard.

TOTAL BILL: We have never had a bill for the two of us over $60 (including tax) for wine and tapas creations from the kitchen for several tapas choices from the menu and a few glasses of sensational select vino from the bar. A terrific place for a reasonable outing with savory wines and fresh cuisine.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

ONYX BAR & LOUNGE @ FOUR SEASONS RESORT SCOTTSDALE… “Scottsdale’s Hot Spot For Luxurious Libations!”

Posted on December 16, 2012 by savo0429

If you’re seeking an upscale locale with an alluring ambiance, unique conversation-piece decor, and exceptional service from friendly, attentive and knowledgeable servers, seek no more. Because Onyx Bar & Lounge possesses the answers to all of those inquiries. Located inside the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale Resort at Troon North, this unforgettable gathering spot will cure your cravings for perfectly-shaken martinis, creatively fashioned fare, and memorable service all inside (or outside) an intimate setting with views of the Sonoran landscape seemingly just within arm’s reach.

This alluring Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired space entices its guests with an array of temptations to soothe even the most tedious and trying day’s events. The menu encompasses creatively prepared culinary desires from fine wines to succulent inventive small plates to fine Cognacs and even that long awaited luxurious cigar if yearned for. It’s all at Onyx Bar & Lounge. All you are required to do is sit back, enjoy the view, breathe in the fresh air and take it all in.

We enjoyed a few flavorful bites inside the lounge on our last visit during the establishment’s Happy Hour. But this is not your ordinary Happy Hour. Here you are ushered into an environment of deep hues, back-lit slabs of onyx and a Southwestern-chic elegance all at once.

Goat Cheese Fritters

Lightly deep-fried crusted orbs of warmed goat cheese create an exemplary crunch on their exterior before biting into warm comforting goat’s cheese inside. Three to an order, these divine spheres of cheesy goodness are accompanied with a zesty pepper and drizzled with a sweet syrup for an unexpected flavor contrast.

Jicama Crab Tacos

The Jicama Crab Tacos were incredibly savory with their lump crab meat, fresh-cut avocado chunks, diced tomatoes, and jicama taco shells! Yes…no tortilla shells with these delectable carb-free temptations. The shells were made of sheets of sliced jicama and were fabulous as a replacement to traditional taco shells. I especially loved this facet of the presentation. It was the perfect solution to watching my carb intake, while not missing out on any of the outstanding flavor.

Carne Asada Nachos

Nachos can be either hit or miss with us. Yes, they’re nachos. However, THESE nachos are hearty, loaded with marinated tender chunks of beef, a sensational melty cheese that screams “delicious”, and a savory conglomeration of tastes created by the fresh-sliced colorful jalapeno peppers, ripe tomatoes, crunchy red onion and ample dollop of cool, refreshing sour cream atop crisp tortilla triangles.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Onyx Bar & Lounge. We even got the opportunity to speak to Chef Jesse Hansen in the bar about the goings on at the Scottsdale property. It was certainly a lovely experience, and a justified prequel to the lovely dinner we enjoyed later in the evening at the resort.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Almost rustic in a sense, yet upscale and chic enough to embrace you and coerce you into enjoying the evening either indoors beside the eye-catching, center-of-attention onyx-paneled bar or outdoors on the patio with scenic panoramic views of the Sonoran landscape.

FOOD / DRINK: Fresh, creative presentations, inspiring flavors with a collection of savory libations that will leave you desiring more.

LOCATION: Onyx Bar & Lounge is located adjacent to the main lobby inside the Four Seasons Resort at Troon North at 10600 East Crescent Moon Drive in Scottsdale, AZ 85262.

HOURS: Onyx Bar & Lounge hosts its Happy Hour Sundays through Thursdays from 3PM – 7 PM, and also on Fridays an Saturdays from 3PM – 6 PM. Outside of Happy Hour, the lounge is open daily from 3 PM until 12 midnight, serving small plate bites until 11 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Without exception, attentive, observant, and knowlegable on all facets of the establishment, property, and menu items.

PARKING: Valet service is available for guests of the resort and visiting patrons alike.

CORKAGE FEE: Unfortunately, no outside alcohol is allowed at this establishment.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (480) 515-5700, Website: www.fourseasons.com/scottsdale/dining/lounges/onyx_bar_and_lounge/

PARKING: Parking is taken care of by the resort’s valet service in front of the main entrance to the property.

TOTAL BILL: Our total bill came in just over $45. However, that was only a lovely precursor to the fine dinner we enjoyed at Talavera restaurant next door later in the evening.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

ROCKS @ THE BOHEMIAN HOTEL… “Panoramic Views of Charming Savannah!”

Posted on December 13, 2012 by savo0429

Located in the the Bohemian Hotel along River Street in the charismatic and meridional city of Savannah, Georgia along the flowing river waters you will find Rocks Modern Grill and Rooftop Lounge. This unexpected nightlife hot spot has been one of the few venues of choice among locals in this romantic city since it’s opening in 2008. Having charmed locals and visitors with its contemporary design using natural materials derived from the water (such as the oyster shells that make up the chandeliers and driftwood creations displayed throughout this casual, but sophisticated eatery and lounge) this establishment doesn’t miss a beat from the small plates menu to the elegant and southernesque open air rooftop lounge with its romantic ambiance at sunset to the flavorful, comforting, and savory cuisine!

Rocks is a unique blend of the savory and the sensational between its split level provisions. On the ground floor, Rocks presents its small plates and appetizers along with a full bar which is the center of attention as one walks inside from the hustle and bustle of River Street. On the rooftop, the establishment is a modern lounge which also offers an expansive view around the entire lounge of the historic district of the city and on the opposite side over the rushing waters of the mighty Savannah River.

Rocks Lower Level on River Street in Savannah, GA

We love that the restaurant allows furry friends on their first floor outdoor dining area along River Street. Visitors can enjoy delicious fare from the restaurant as well as views of passing ships on the river. Inside, eclectic decor enhances a modern space leading to the first floor hallway elevators. A short quick ride up to the rooftop and you will be spoiled with outstanding libations and exquisite views, especially after sunset when tiny white lights start to glow and a romantic vibe fills the air.

Above, views of the Savannah River from the rooftop lounge at Rocks, a photo of the bar inside the rooftop restaurant, and a vision of the popular people-filled brick paved River Street. The views from the rooftop lounge are stunning and overlook the busy Savannah River on one side, then the historic part of the town on the Bay Street side of the building where tree lined streets can be seen for blocks. Fire pits sit amidst comfy lounge furniture and a sudden romance abounds as the rooftop is transformed almost magically. Flickering candles are lit in the evenings once sunset nears, strings of twinkling white lights come to life, and the sounds of live entertainment fills the air white the full bar upstairs caters to patrons’ requests for flavorful (and sinfully potent) libations and tapas-style dishes bursting with flavor.

INSIDER’S TIP: It can get pretty crowded at sunset and after dark on the rooftop lounge, so just be aware of that. However, once there and settled in, you’ll enjoy all that Rocks on the Roof has to offer.

Tasty selections we have enjoyed from both Rocks menus include the Margarita Pizza ($15) with a perfectly cooked crust, fresh shredded basil, delicious marinara sauce and creamy fresh mozzarella cheese. Perfect for pairing with any of the restaurant’s expertly-mixed adult beverages such as the Savannah Tea ($10), a refreshing chilled glass of Chardonnay, Rocks’ custom-prepared Pear Martini, or any of the eatery’s other numerous selections.

Many times a day, patrons can observe massive container ships passing by on the river. The rooftop lounge offers an ideal spot to watch this occur. It’s really interesting after dark when all you can see are the lights of the ships as they drift past. Above, a view of riverboats lined up along the embankment as sunset approaches, a tugboat-style water ferry arriving from across the river, and a cargo ship traveling down the Savannah River during the day.

Rocks on the River and Rocks on the Roof at the Bohemian Hotel in Savannah are perfect locations for relaxing, being entertained, enjoying sensational cocktails and tasty edible creations. If you’re in the area, we recommend you stop in and enjoy some of what Savannah locals call the new ‘hot spot’ for this charm filled section of the South.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Actual rocks are included in the chic decor along with other eclectic items and conversation pieces everywhere you look filling both levels of Rocks. From the inverted wooden kayaks hanging from the ceilings over each bar to the rock-shaped designs in the bar themselves to the oyster shell chandeliers hanging overhead, there’s nothing that wasn’t giver attention to when the spaces were created.

FOOD / DRINK: Nicely presented and prepared pizzas, salads and cocktails made to order. We found ourselves very pleased with the results from the kitchen and both bars after our first trip that we returned several more times.

LOCATION: Rocks Grill and Rooftop Lounge are located within the Bohemian Hotel at 102 West Bay Street in Savannah. GA 31401.

HOURS: Rocks on the River offers daily all day dining from 11 AM through 11 PM, breakfast from 7 AM to 11 AM, and Sunday Benedict Brunch from 9 AM to 2 PM. Nightly features allow for Happy Hour with 1/2 off all pizzas 4 PM to 6 PM Mondays through Thursdays, while All-You-Can-Eat Mussels are available on Mondays until 9 PM for just $21. Tuesdays, kids 10 years of age and under can eat for free. Wednesdays, patrons can get $10 off bottles of wine as well. Live music can be enjoyed on the rooftop starting at 9 PM Thursdays through Saturdays, and also on Sundays from 5 PM to 9 PM. *Specialty nights are not available with any other offers. ( Please call for changes in hours, specials or entertainment due to seasonal changes and closings.)
SERVICE / STAFF: We’ve always experienced kind, informed and friendly staff at Rocks.

PRICE / VALUE: Fair prices accompany a nice value for what we have experienced in terms of food, beverages, service and ambiance.

CORKAGE FEE: TBA

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (912) 721-3900 for Rocks on the River, an (912) 721-3800 for Rocks on the Rooftop. Website: www.bohemianhotelsavannah.com

PARKING: There is metered parking along Bay Street, and also lots and city parking garage facilities for your convenience. Or you can drive to the convention center beside the Westin Hotel on Hutchinson Island directly across the river and take one of the tug-boat-style water ferries just for fun, which offer a beautiful view of the riverfront from the water.

TOTAL BILL: Our visits have never exceeded more than $40 for the two of us including appetizers and cocktails.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

IL CIELO RESTAURANT… “A Dream Worth Stepping Into!”

Posted on December 12, 2012 by savo0429

It’s a bit like arriving at an upscale provincial estate in Tuscany when you enter Il Cielo restaurant. The feel of warmth and serenity embrace you as you enter the garden patio through the front door, a sincere and caring hostess ushers you to a table amongst one of the numerous areas inside the garden patio or private rooms, and a peaceful calm surrounds you at your table while your visual perception is filled with imagery of towering glass ceilings, flickering candles atop tall pedestals everywhere you look, intricate chandeliers overhead and romance in the air. There’s no denying why Il Cielo was rated ‘Los Angeles’ Most Romantic Restaurant’, and was named one of the ‘Top Seven Places To Get Married’. Quite impressive. However, that won’t surprise you so much once you visit this alluring establishment to see for yourself just how much romance exists here.

Details are meticulously refined throughout the restaurant’s charming and captivating dining areas. You may forget you are in the city and believe you are dining in the middle of a cultivated Italian garden behind a private estate during your experience. Don’t be alarmed. Just absorb it all and remember that feeling doesn’t have to leave you as long as you are here. Since 1986, Il Cielo has been enticing its clientele with its intimate setting, divine Italian cuisine, and overall refinement.

On our last visit, our focus was on the lounge. Specifically, the popular Happy Hour that is scheduled every Monday through Friday from 4:30 PM – 8 PM. All specialty cocktails are two-for-one, as well as most bar appetizers. We discovered that these libations are creatively engineered by the Il Cielo lounge staff. There are no unsavory, watered-down, overpriced cocktails here. Just meticulously-crafted, hand-shaken, stunningly gratifying liquid libations that will turn you into a regular customer.

Below, we enjoyed several of Il Cielo’s specialty cocktails and sampled an item from the lounge appetizer menu as well…

Ivory Bliss Martini

This is a favorite of ours…the Ivory Bliss martini. This is a perfect opportunity to sip your way into a coconut fantasy unlike anything else you’ve ever tasted. The imaginativeness of the Il Cielo mixologists will not permit you to forget about this harmonious concoction. Made with a combination of Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur and Ciroc Coconut vodka, this tropical refreshment is then shaken with fresh coconut shavings and served extremely chilled with a Belgian chocolate grated crown.

Il Cielo Peartini

I love a fabulous pear-flavored martini. This conglomeration of Grey Goose La Poire, fresh mint and a splash of citrus was topped off with a slice of crisp cucumber. Refreshing and visually attractive, each sip of this fruity and potent martini was satisfactory, well-accepted, and a definite to order again on a future visit.

Spiedino Caprese Appetizer

The Spiedino Caprese appetizer showed off the vibrant hues of red and green it possesses. Succulent sliced of fresh cherry tomatoes atop decorative skewers of mouthwatering orbs of mozzarella and crisp greens drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. A perfectly portioned nibble between exploring Il Cielo’s array of cocktails.

Strawberry Bellinitini

I’m a huge fan of strawberries. Here is one specific example of that popular fruit that can easily put a smile on my face most any time. The Strawberry Bellinitini. Created with Vodka, fresh strawberry puree, lemon juice, then topped with Champagne, the flavor of strawberry dances across your taste buds in celebration.

Limoncello Drop Martini

The Limoncello Drop martini is Il Cielo’s rendition of the standard Lemon Drop libation. Made with Absolut Citron, Limoncello, and fresh squeezed lemon juice, this liquid sensation will force you from never having a traditional Lemon Drop martini ever again!

Il Cielo exudes charm, is undeniably romantic, and is profoundly enchanting in terms of its overall ambiance, decor, cuisine and service. We recommend it highly and we look forward to experiencing a dream of our own soon within this fantastic venue of relaxing comfort and beautiful allure.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Lush garden-themed ambiance with romance in the air, flickering candles throughout the dining rooms, comfortable seating and an extremely intimate setting that will make you think twice before leaving at all.

FOOD / DRINK: We have yet to experience dinner at Il Cielo (It’s on our list!) However, the quality of the appetizer we shared an the four specialty signature cocktails we indulged in inside of the Il Cielo lounge were delightful and memorable.

LOCATION: Il Cielo is located at 9018 Burton Way in Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

HOURS: Il Cielo’s popular Happy Hour extends from 4:30 PM to 8 PM every Monday through Friday in the restaurant’s spacious and inviting lounge. Lunch is available Monday through Saturday from 11:30 AM – 3 PM, while dinner is served Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM, then again Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 PM – 11 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our bartender, Virgil, offered us excellent service, attentiveness, and made reliable suggestions.

PRICE / VALUE: We were extremely satisfied with the price of our beverages and appetizer that we shared while enjoying ourselves in the Il Cielo lounge. On our last visit, specialty cocktails were $7 each, and they were also two-for-one!

CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750mL bottle

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 276-9990, Website: www.ilcielo.com

PARKING: We had no trouble locating a metered parking space just outside the restaurant on our last visit to the establishment.

TOTAL BILL: Our final bill for four specialty cocktails and the Caprese appetizer came to just over $32 (including tax).

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

THE PENTHOUSE @ HUNTLEY HOTEL… “Sky-High Sophistication At The Huntley Hotel!”

Posted on October 21, 2012 by savo0429

With its awe-inspiring sweeping 360-degree views of the Santa Monica California shoreline, its lavishly-appointed ultra chic beachy motif, and fine contemporary American culinary treats crafted and meticulously presented by Executive Chef Seth Greenburg, The Penthouse Restaurant & Lounge has evolved into one of the city’s most loved destinations for charming and romancing locals and those from afar in a trendy and seductively inviting atmosphere.

Located on the eighteenth top floor of the sophisticated 240-room Huntley Hotel in beautiful Santa Monica, California, The Penthouse offers patrons expansive shoreline views from the venue’s innumerable windows providing views from the coast of Malibu to the shores of Palos Verdes on a clear day.

There’s no better way to get to The Penthouse than taking a ride in the glass-enclosed elevator, which showcases the waterfront and beaches of Santa Monica. Above are a few photos of the incredible view before reaching the top floor.

Innovative imagination and superior technique was provided in the conception of The Penthouse, (as well as the entire Huntley Hotel), by ingenious award-winning designer, Thomas Schoos. You may recall his contribution in design to such hot spot locales as TAO in New York, Koi in Los Angeles, O-Bar in West Hollywood, and the LAX Nightclub in Las Vegas…just to mention a few. His vision of simple luxury and creative insight in everything he touches allows others to appreciate his works of art. The restaurant and lounge features various inviting areas of luxurious comfort to appease just about anyone who enters this magnificent abode of heavenly adornment. From dining in one of the several semi-private intimate ‘cabanas’ to enjoying a classic cocktail in one of the plush leather chairs fireside to indulging in creative fare while sitting at the lavish ‘center-of-attention’ ultra bar, the outdoor elements are intertwined with modern touches inside in so many ways.

INSIDER’S TIP: Enjoy a breathtaking view by arriving before sunset. The skyline will astonish you, while the fading day’s light will welcome a romantic and sexy vibe as candles are lit and the evening brings on a swanky, sexy vibe.

Veev Acai Spirit With Cucumber Honey Lemonade

We regret not having had the opportunity to meet Resident Mixologist, Ryan Magarian, but we were thoroughly entertained and well taken care of by our bartender, Mike. The hand-shaken featured cocktail of the evening when we visited was the Veev Acai Spirit with Cucumber Honey Lemonade ($7). We each indulged in one of these flavorful concoctions at The Penthouse’s sizable luxurious circular bar and almost in unison, we ordered a second round once we were halfway finished with our first. Not over lemony, and just the perfect blend of spirit and cucumber flavor topped off with a light finish of honey. Refreshing and light-tasting, this libation was definitely worthy of a second round.

Since we didn’t have a lot of time to delight in the menu, (we were meeting friends in the area), we decided to try a couple of appetizers from the Sunset Hour menu. Executive Chef Seth Greenburg’s culinary expertise is evident throughout each taste of creative genius on the menu with unique options and detailed presentation. We only wished we had more time to try more of them while we were there!

Our second round of cocktails appeared before us, and we selected the Warm Goat’s Cheese Poppers and two versions of the Short Rib Tacos…

Warm Goat’s Cheese Poppers

I must admit that anything with goat’s cheese usually fast becomes a favorite of mine. As a lover of this creamy, tangy-flavored cheese, I knew that these would be enjoyable. I expected a lot. And that was delivered to us. We were presented with a plate of excellently arranged deep-fried orbs of perfection. Crisp on the outside and warm and creamy on the inside with tiny pieces of jalapeno pepper mixed into the cheese. The light crunch of each popper delivered immediate satisfaction, while the smooth flavorful centers introduced a sensational essence to our taste buds for just $7 an order.

Short Rib Tacos

After sharing an order of the Warm Goat’s Cheese poppers, my husband and I each got an order of the Short Rib Tacos ($7). My husband’s had no relish on his, as he tries to avoid spicier foods and garnishes. I, on the other hand, love spicy cuisine, so I ordered mine with the apple-jalapeno relish that comes with them. Served two tacos to an order, these hearty mini hors d’ oeuvres arrived with tender and savory-to-the-last-bite saucy short rib meat encased in crunchy house made taco shells. Guacamole and spicy salsa added, these tasty gems were worth waiting for.

Though enjoyable while we were there, we really wished we could have stayed a bit longer to sample more of the menu items available. We plan to return to The Penthouse for drinks and dinner to experience the full display of Executive Chef Greenburg’s culinary excellence in the future.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The beach-chic decor and upscale sophisticated flair of this establishment allows for a relaxed ambiance perfectly suited for enjoying a bite at the bar, cocktails or a full meal.

FOOD / DRINK: Fresh flavors and vibrant presentation are combined to craft memorable appetizers, while cocktails are hand shaken in front of you and and created with quality ingredients making for a winning combination between the two.

LOCATION: The Penthouse Restaurant & Lounge is located on the 18th floor at the top of the Huntley Hotel at 1111 Second Street in Santa Monica, CA 90403.

HOURS: The Penthouse is available for Breakfast from 7 AM – 11 AM daily, Lunch from 11 AM – 3 PM daily, Dinner from 6 PM – 10 PM Sunday through Thursday then again from 6 PM – 11 PM Friday and Saturday, a Late Night menu is available until 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, Brunch is served 11 AM – 2:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, and finally, Sunset Hour, (the restaurant’s version of Happy Hour), is offered from 4 PM – 7 PM Monday through Friday.

SERVICE / STAFF:We felt appreciated by our hostess, our bartender and other staff during our visit to The Penthouse.

PRICE / VALUE: We enjoyed the quality ingredients that were infused into the appetizers we ordered, as well as our cocktails and feel satisfied with the price for the value of what we received.

CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750ml bottle

CONTACT INFO:Phone: (310) 393-8080, Website: www.thehuntleyhotel.com/penthouse

PARKING: Huntley Hotel offers valet service, however, there is also metered parking as well in front of the property and along nearby side streets.

TOTAL BILL: Just over $50 (including tax) for four featured cocktails, an order of Warm Goat’s Cheese Poppers, and two orders of the Short Rib Tacos was just perfect for us before leaving to meet friends!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

WISEGUYS… “Great Bites With A Cosmopolitan Feel!”

Posted on September 29, 2012 by savo0429

If you’re vacationing, playing golf or a local of Hilton Head Island on the coast of South Carolina, and you’re looking for a late-night spot for food, fun and a great ambiance, head to Wiseguys. Popular and well-known for their small plates, savory award-winning wine list and hip atmosphere, this accommodation will quickly become a favorite of yours just as it did with us.

This modern upscale restaurant and lounge is a “must do” when on the island and will not disappoint. Its trendy vibe and cultured environment will whisk you off the island once you enter through the stainless steel front doors and instantly transport you to the city via the sleek plush lounge, hip and cozy motif and visually stunning presentation of both chilled beverages and speciatly cuisine.

With both indoor seating and a pleasant covered outdoor patio area in front of this establishment, Wiseguys’ indoor lounge is our favorite place to meet, mingle and enjoy urban-inspired bites created by Chef Jim Spratling. Below, the Pinot Noir we enjoyed is just one on a list of over 150 labels available. Hand-shaken cocktails are also refreshing and beautifully presented.

In 2009, 2010 and 2011, Wiseguys has been awarded the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for their amazing collection. This place knows wine…you can count on that. And we are assured that you will be thrilled with their unique offerings when you check it our for yourself on your next visit.

The photo collage above includes savory red wine, refreshing and crisp white wine, a Cosmopolitan, and the Hibiscus Margarita made with Hibiscus Flower Infused Tequila, fresh-squeezed lime juice and organic agave nectar. YUM! I especially loved the chilled metal martini glass the Cosmo is served in. Such a unique twist on the traditional martini glass!

Wiseguys does offer a Happy Hour daily from 5 – 7 PM when you can receive $1.00 Wiseguys poker chips with any regular beer, wine or cocktail that can be used toward your bill at the end of the night. (What a fun idea!) My husband and I usually order from the “Small Plates” and “Signature Pizzettas” menus. The below are a few of our favorites that we can’t help ordering over and over again…

WG Short Rib Sliders

Above, the WG Short Rib Sliders with braised short rib of beef, creamy horseradish sauce, crispy parsnips and house chips. Savory, appetizing and full of flavor, this small plate is one of our favorites.

Tuna Tartare Lettuce Wraps

The Tuna Tartare Lettuce Wraps are fashioned with Boston Lettuce, fresh avocado, wonton crisps and a wasabi soy vinaigrette. If you’re a tartare lover, this is a perfect item for you! Great for those who prefer to avoid bread, this lettuce-cupped tuna presentation is not only filling, but also visually pleasing.

Signature Margherita Pizzetta

This one is a real winner with my husband. His love of very thin-crusted pizza met its match once he tried Wiseguys’ Signature Margherita Pizzetta. In fact, we’ve tried this specific selection numerous times. Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella and pesto enhance the thin fresh-baked crust that is crisped to perfection then drizzled with a basil puree on top. Simply delicious!

Shrimp & Lobster Wontons and WG Short Rib Sliders

Above, a combo photo of the WG Short Rib Sliders and the Shrimp & Lobster Wontons served with a cilantro-lime Creme Fraiche.

Sweet & Spicy Chili-Glazed Shrimp

These Sweet & Spicy Chili-Glazed Shrimp served with a Napa Slaw were delectable with a kick! Spicy, yet very pleasing to the palate, these tender tempura-battered bites were easily enjoyed. If you like spicy foods, this is a certain champion in the category.

Seared Tuna Sliders

Another sensational Small Plate at Wiseguys we recommend are the Seared Tuna Sliders served with a truffle Aioli and petite greens on fresh-baked mini rolls and house chips. Light and scrumptious, this dish will have you ordering more once you finish the first plate!

Wiseguys on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is a great spot for finding a favorite wine, meeting the locals or just having a fantastic meal in a chic and stylish environment that is also one of the island’s best locations for late-night hours for those of us who tend to stay up later than most.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Hip vibe, comfortable and convenient seating throughout the venue and a fun and exciting atmosphere.

FOOD / DRINK: Unique presentation of appetizing and delightful dishes. Many selections that will please most everyone from fine wines and chilled cocktails and savory bites and dinners from the kitchen.

LOCATION: Wiseguys is located at 1513 Main Street on Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.

HOURS: Wiseguys is open daily at 5 PM until midnight daily. The kitchen also serves until midnight each day.

SERVICE / STAFF: Always excellent service, friendly servers and bartenders and attentive service rendered when we’ve visited.

PRICE / VALUE: Terrific! Always really reasonable prices and an outstanding value for what you get between the service, ambiance, great wines and refreshing mixed drinks and creative cuisine.

CORKAGE FEE: $20 per 750ml bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (843) 842-8866, Website www.wiseguyshhi.com

PARKING: There is plenty of parking in the complimentary lot in front of the establishment.

TOTAL BILL: On our many visits to Wiseguys on Hilton Head Island, our total bill only exceeded $50 (including tax) a handful of times. Most times, depending on how much wine and other drinks we enjoyed, and if we were entertaining other people, our total amount spent stayed under $40 – $45 for my husband and myself.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

LA FRITE CAFE… “Sister Locations Serving Up Exquisite French Cuisine!”

Posted on September 23, 2012 by savo0429

If you know about La Frite Restaurant in California, then you know about great French cuisine at a reasonable premium in a comfortable relaxed atmosphere. With two locations in separate cities within the San Fernando Valley, these establishments are serving up some pretty spectacular French fare and at the same time providing pretty spectacular service as well. I was so excited to finally write this article. It took a little while to get this written and posted because I wanted to include the Woodland Hills La Frite Cafe in addition to the Sherman Oaks locale to show just how great they both are. I’m happy that I am finally publishing this now.

In Sherman Oaks, customers are silently greeted by a cutout of a smiling swine suited in a tuxedo holding a menu wearing a black cap exhibiting the name of the restaurant on the front. Outdoor covered patio seating is also available at this location in addition to indoor dining. The vibrant yellow and black La Frite sign is also situated atop the eatery and displays a chef flipping French crepes out of a skillet…

La Frite Cafe’s sister property, located in Woodland Hills, CA prominently shows off the same classic yellow and black colors on its canopy welcoming patrons to dine inside. Below, indoor seating in the front dining room, tables in the lounge area in the back of the restaurant and a view of the comfortable booth lining a wall across from the bar…

Cocktails at both locations will leave a satisfied smile on your face. Below are a few of the cocktails we’ve enjoyed on numerous occasions…

Above, a Lemon Drop Martini, the potent Cantaloupe Martini and a couple of classic La Frite Cafe Bloody Marys we enjoyed at the Sherman Oaks property were creative, cold and spirited. Below, at the Woodland Hills location, we indulged in the Blueberries Wild Martini (top left photo below). Stoli Blueberry, Three Olives Cake Vodka with a graham cracker rim and fresh wild blueberries…it was as thought someone had liquefied a blueberry muffin and served it to me in a martini glass…with a kick, of course! You simply MUST try this martini if you enjoy the flavor of blueberries. Additionally, we sampled a couple of tastings of the Coconut Dream Martini (top right photo below), which was incredibly sinful with Smirnoff Coconut and White Chocolate Godiva. Are you kidding! My husband and I appreciated the flavor of the islands in those as well. On another visit, we were highly pleased with the Apeachy Cosmopolitan, a Cantaloupe Martini and a straight Blueberry Martini (lower photos below), which were equally savory…

Now that we’ve covered a few of the liquid assets of each La Frite Cafe, let’s get down to the business of fine French cuisine. At the Sherman Oaks location, we have happily devoured such items so tasty and incredibly fresh that we could have sworn we were whisked away to a little cafe somewhere in France. Take a look below at the numerous offerings we thoroughly enjoyed…

Baked Brie with Provencal Herbs Served with Garlic Bread and Marinara Sauce

Above, the Baked Brie with Provencal Herbs (served with garlic bread and marinara sauce for $17.50) was baked to exquisiteness. Coated with Provencal herbs and deliciously creamy and melty when cut into, this starter was a truly divine beginning to any French meal. Another highly enjoyable appetizer we recommend is the below Mousse De Canard, which is a homemade duck liver mousse with sherry gelee, cornichons, cherry mustard and a sliced toasted baguette…

Mousse De Canard

Epinarde Et Artichaut Crepe

La Frite Cafe is known for their extraordinary crepes. So I had to try at least one. I chose the Epinarde Et Artichaut, which is their crepe filled with spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese and herbs. Can I admit that I was momentarily transported to a small cafe in Paris…a table for two outdoors as the light of the day was fading into evening…a full bright moon rising overhead and the loving gaze of my husband focused on me and where we were together alone as we seemed to be closing the eatery down being the last patrons there….

…oh, sorry…did I do that again? That’s definitely a sign that the cuisine at La Frite Cafe is significant, I suppose. When a mere taste of something you’re eating does that to you, there MUST be something to it.

Spinach Salad Et Pould

Here’s one scrumptious salad…the Spinach Salad Et Pould ($12), which is comprised of tender grilled chicken breast, chilled fresh avocado, baby red and yellow tomatoes, roasted crunchy croutons, shaved red onions and a Champagne vinaigrette that you will fall in love with at first bite. Healthy and guilt-free, this salad is a perfect selection for a hearty meal that won’t leave you feeling overstuffed. I have it frequently and always enjoy it.

The bread offering at La Frite Cafe is exceptional. If you really want true French Bread, this is the place to get it. The soft, tender excellently-baked dough just screams to be eaten. I didn’t even add butter to it. It’s just that good!

We took advantage of the Woodland Hills La Frite Cafe Happy Hour one afternoon. The menu above shows what terrific deals were presented to us. We also appreciated the long-stemmed roses in tubular glass vases on the tables weighted by clear and blue floral marbles. So simplistic, yet such a statement!

Happy Hour Caprese Salad

We started with the Caprese Salad ($6). Chilled creamy buffalo mozzarella and fresh sliced tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette then topped with shredded basil and served with crostinis.

Did things get a bit out of hand with the next item we ordered? Perhaps. But if there was a specific item we enjoyed on this particular visit that just wowed our taste buds and heightened our senses with flavor and excitement (and lots of butter), it was the Escargot Stuffed Mushrooms ($5) below. We got a little nuts and after the mushrooms were devoured, we started dipping pieces of hot French bread into the buttery colorful sauce! It was so incredible, I think we temporarily lost our minds (in a good way!)…

Happy Hour Escargot-Stuffed Mushrooms

Happy Hour Ground Top Sirloin Sliders

Craving a little heavy cream sauce on your burger? Try the above Chateaubriand beefy bites, and I guarantee you’ll think you’ve escaped this world and gone to heaven. The Ground Top Sirloin Sliders ($7), are prepared with garlic, mushrooms, and slivers of crisp bacon. This pair of tasty beef sliders gets two thumbs up from SavorHour.com!

On another trip to the Woodland Hills La Frite Cafe, we experienced more French cuisine happiness…

Chopped Smoked Chicken Salad

The Chopped Smoked Chicken Salad ($13) is refreshing and nearly enough for two people. I couldn’t finish it myself, even after giving a portion of it to my husband to eat. There’s a lot of food in this menu option. Freshly-chopped smoked breast of chicken is gently tossed with lettuce, fresh tomatoes, chilled ripe avocado, red onion, feta cheese and pine nuts in a house vinaigrette dressing. I actually took about a third of this salad home with me because it was such a generous portion for lunchtime.

Big Boy Blue Sandwich

The Big Boy Blue is another famous menu item at La Frite Cafe ($13.50 at the Woodland Hills location.) A large handmade lean ground sirloin burger smothered in melted blue cheese served open-faced on French bread accompanied by shoestring French fries. My husband ordered this. He has always enjoyed this sandwich in the past, and this time was no exception to that record. How can anyone not like anything covered in melted blue cheese, right? But add that to La Frite Cafe’s outstanding burgers and their phenomenal French bread, and you just cannot go wrong.

Whether for Happy Hour over creative savory chilled martinis and tastes of France off of the small bites menu, or for a full meal at Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner, there is definitely something for everyone at either one of the La Frite Cafe locations in the San Fernando Valley. We certainly will continue to sing the praises of the flavors of France every time we visit.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Both establishments are noticeable for their black-and-yellow striped canopies and quaint cozy exterior look. Inside, they each welcome diners in with a classic traditional French motif and comfortable seating which includes booths, individual tables as well as bar seating.

FOOD / DRINK: Spectacular authentic French cuisine available at both locations that you will not soon forget. A fantastic restaurant for revisiting time and time again for entertaining family and friends or business associates, taking some time for yourself to relax and enjoy amazingly-prepared authentic French cuisine and cold refreshing cocktails. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Ask your server about those when you stop in.

HOURS: Sunday – Breakfast and lunch is available daily from 11AM to 4PM, while dinner is served every evening from 4PM to 10PM during the week and from 4PM to 11PM Friday and Saturday nights. You can also enjoy a great champagne brunch Saturdays and Sundays from 11AM to 4PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: We’ve never had a bad experience at either of these restaurants. We’ve been to both on several occasions at different times of the day, and the customer service and dedication shown has never appeared compromised in any way.

PRICE / VALUE: No problems with prices at La Frite Cafe. The prices will satisfy you just as much as their fine French cuisine.

CORKAGE FEE: $7 per 750ml bottle at both locations.

CONTACT INFO: Woodland Hills Location – Phone: (818) 225-1331, Sherman Oaks Location – Phone: (818) 990-1791. The website for both locations is www.lafritecafe.com

PARKING: The Sherman Oaks location offers patrons complimentary parking next to the building, while there is Valet Parking available at the Woodland Hills restaurant. Metered street parking is also available in front of both locations alternatively.

TOTAL BILL: We have spent varied amounts at both locations of La Frite Cafe. I think the most we’ve ever paid was close to $200 for a party of four after a business meeting. On most occasions, my husband and I never could total more than $35 for two entrees and a few cocktails for the two of us in a single sitting. We’re very satisfied with the resulting prices for such terrific and rewarding cuisine.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

LA FRITE CAFE… “Sister Locations Serving Up Exquisite French Cuisine!”

Posted on September 23, 2012 by savo0429

*** As of 1/01/2013, the Woodland Hills La Frite location was renamed ‘The French Connection’. Still featuring the same great menu.

Cocktails at both locations will leave a satisfied smile on your face. Below are a few of the cocktails we’ve enjoyed on numerous occasions…

Baked Brie with Provencal Herbs Served with Garlic Bread and Marinara Sauce

Mousse De Canard

Epinarde Et Artichaut Crepe

Spinach Salad Et Pould

Happy Hour Caprese Salad

We started with the Caprese Salad ($6). Chilled creamy buffalo mozzarella and fresh sliced tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette then topped with shredded basil and served with crostinis.

Happy Hour Escargot-Stuffed Mushrooms

Happy Hour Ground Top Sirloin Sliders

On another trip to the Woodland Hills La Frite Cafe, we experienced more French cuisine happiness…

Chopped Smoked Chicken Salad

Big Boy Blue Sandwich

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Both establishments are noticeable for their black-and-yellow striped canopies and quaint cozy exterior look. Inside, they each welcome diners in with a classic traditional French motif and comfortable seating which includes booths, individual tables as well as bar seating.

FOOD / DRINK: Spectacular authentic French cuisine available at both locations that you will not soon forget. A fantastic restaurant for revisiting time and time again for entertaining family and friends or business associates, taking some time for yourself to relax and enjoy amazingly-prepared authentic French cuisine and cold refreshing cocktails. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Ask your server about those when you stop in.

HOURS: Sunday – Breakfast and lunch is available daily from 11AM to 4PM, while dinner is served every evening from 4PM to 10PM during the week and from 4PM to 11PM Friday and Saturday nights. You can also enjoy a great champagne brunch Saturdays and Sundays from 11AM to 4PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: We’ve never had a bad experience at either of these restaurants. We’ve been to both on several occasions at different times of the day, and the customer service and dedication shown has never appeared compromised in any way.

PRICE / VALUE: No problems with prices at La Frite Cafe. The prices will satisfy you just as much as their fine French cuisine.

CORKAGE FEE: $7 per 750ml bottle at both locations.

CONTACT INFO: Woodland Hills Location – Phone: (818) 225-1331, Sherman Oaks Location – Phone: (818) 990-1791. The website for both locations is www.lafritecafe.com

PARKING: The Sherman Oaks location offers patrons complimentary parking next to the building, while there is Valet Parking available at the Woodland Hills restaurant. Metered street parking is also available in front of both locations alternatively.

TOTAL BILL: We have spent varied amounts at both locations of La Frite Cafe. I think the most we’ve ever paid was close to $200 for a party of four after a business meeting. On most occasions, my husband and I never could total more than $35 for two entrees and a few cocktails for the two of us in a single sitting. We’re very satisfied with the resulting prices for such terrific and rewarding cuisine.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

THE BISTRO GARDEN @ COLDWATER… “Updated Happy Hour Menu!”

Posted on September 17, 2012 by savo0429

*UNFORTUNATELY, BISTRO GARDEN’S HAPPY HOUR HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

Bistro Garden in Studio City, CA recently revised their Happy Hour menu. Not only that, but they have extended the times of it as well due to it’s popularity and exciting offerings during that alluring time of the evening.

In our original article at SavorHour.com about Bistro Garden’s Happy Hour that we published on May 3, 2012, we highlighted the current menu at the time, the memorable piano playing of David Wilson on Wednesday nights, and the warm and welcoming staff within the stunning environment of Bistro Garden.

Still available Monday through Friday evenings, Bistro Garden’s new Happy Hour menu now extends from 4 PM to 7 PM and offers an array of newly designed creative culinary delights that will tempt your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. All while being entertained by the talents of David Wilson at the Baby Grand and enjoying the new 25% discount on all drinks, bottles of wine and Champagne, and bar appetizers.

Speaking of bar appetizers, we’ve tried several and can attest to the vibrant display of color and the immense flavorful sensation of each. Try Shredded Marinated Short Ribs with Avocado and Salsa Fresca on House Made Tortilla Chips ($8.50), Seared Ahi Tuna Tacos in Crispy Wonton Shells with Sesame Slaw and Mango Pineapple Salsa ($11.50), Fresh Ceviche with House Made Tortilla Chips ($10.50), Chicken Lettuce Cups with Citrus Hoisin Sauce ($9.50), Grilled Vegetable Flatbread with Mozzarella, Feta Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus ($8.50). Still on the menu from the former menu are the Rotisserie Chicken Quesadillas and the Trio of Sliders (both now $10.50).

Marinated Short Ribs On House Made Tortilla Chips

The Marinated Short Ribs with Avocado and Salsas Fresca on House Made Tortilla Chips (pictured above and below) are one of my personal favorites. The tender short rib meat is savory and delicious while the creamy avocado and Salsa Fresca is enhanced by the delicate crunch of the house made tortilla chips it all rests on. They’re like nachos, but without the cheese! And believe us, you don’t need cheese on these tasty bites of crunchy fulfillment.

Close-Up of the Marinated Short Ribs on House Made Tortilla Chips

The Seared Ahi Tuna Tacos in Crispy Wonton Shells with Sesame Slaw and Mango Pineapple Salsa are gratifying and pleasing. Served three to an order, these were large enough to satisfy the two of us along with a couple of cocktails on a single visit.

Seared Ahi Tuna Tacos In Crispy Wonton Shells

I absolutely love photographing food! SO here’s another photo from a different angle of the Seared Ahi Tuna Tacos…the colorful array of different vegetables against the hue of the taco shells is attractive to the eye and makes me want an order of them as I write this post…

Close-Up of Seared Ahi Tuna Tacos In Crispy Wonton Shells

Here I go again with the photos…the Fresh Ceviche with House Made Tortilla Chips below is refreshing and a nice appetizer to enjoy during warm days.

Fresh Ceviche With House Made Tortilla Chips

We really like the house made tortilla chips that are served with the Fresh Ceviche dish. The crunchiness is fun and you could top these crispy delights with most anything and they would be enjoyable…

Fresh Ceviche With House Made Tortilla Chips

If you like chicken, don’t forget about the Rotisserie Chicken Quesadillas…but keep in mind the new Chicken Lettuce Cups with Citrus Hoisin Sauce also. Chilled fresh lettuce leaves accompanied by a bowl of hot ground chicken, herbs and spices and grilled vegetables tossed in a citrus hoisin sauce and served on a rectangular dish, this appetizer is a full-flavored and mouthwatering experience…

Chicken Lettuce Cups With Citrus Hoisin Sauce

Here’s something for the pizza lover in you…the Grilled Flatbread with Mozarella, Feta Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus…

Grilled Flat Bread With Mozzarella, Feta Cheese, and Sun Dried Tomato Hummus

We recommend stopping in at Bistro Garden to experience the new Happy Hour menu from 4 PM to 7 PM Monday through Friday. Fransisco is still the creative mixologist behind the bar and as always, will take great care of you when you arrive. Maurice, the Maitre D’ of the establishment, will assist in any way required and ensure that your involvement is seamless and enjoyable. And, of course, David Wilson will enchant you with his classic piano playing behind the Bistro Garden Baby Grand piano while you’re there. A complete experience one should not pass by, this is the place for relaxing after a long day where you will be reminded that in life it matters to have a good time.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Classic decor and the enveloping notes of David Wison’s melodic creations at the piano will invite you to stay longer and welcome you in.

FOOD / DRINK: A great new and inventive Happy Hour Bar Menu, updated discounts off all drinks, bottles of wine and Champagne and a couple of popular favorites from the former menu!

LOCATION: Bistro Garden is located at 12950 Ventura Boulevard in Studio City, CA 91604.

HOURS: Happy Hour lasts from 4PM to 7PM from Monday through Friday evenings.

SERVICE / STAFF: Always warm, welcoming, sincere and genuinely happy to see you when you enter the building.

PRICE / VALUE: Terrific pricing on the renovated and updated Happy Hour menu with a little something to suit anyone’s cravings.

CORKAGE FEE: $20 per 750ml bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (818) 501-0202, Website: www.bistrogarden.com

PARKING: Valet Service is available behind the restaurant as well as metered parking on Ventura Boulevard and the side streets.

TOTAL BILL: Each of the last three visits we’ve made to Bistro Garden to enjoy their new Happy Hour, we never spent over $25 including adult beverages.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE… “A Woodland Hills Experience!”

Posted on August 13, 2012 by savo0429

After comparing the “Happy Hour” accommodations of the Woodland Hills Ruth’s Chris to the location in Beverly Hills, we’ve decided to recommend the Woodland Hills location to our readers for a great Happy Hour. Spacious, comfortable booths, tables and high-tops with a much longer-lasting and extensive menu, you won’t be disappointed with this Woodland Hills gathering spot!

Called their “Prime Hour”, the Woodland Hills Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse offers everything you can think of in terms of appetizers. We were shocked by the portion sizes, and awed by the incredible service and quality of the hand-shaken cocktails we enjoyed each time we visited.

Select wines, premium beers and well drinks are just $5, while hand shaken refreshing martinis are available for $7 each during Prime Hour. Above, we delighted in a Cosmopolitan, a Rum & Coke, a couple of glasses of wine, a basket of complimentary spicy potato chips and a classic Lemon Drop Martini.

Prime Hour Caesar Salad

The Ruth’s Chris Prime Hour Caesar Salad is a filling portion for anyone. Crisp Romaine lettuce leaves with Romano cheese and a creamy Caesar dressing topped with shaved Parmesan on top. When asked if I would like anchovies with my salad, we were not only not charged extra for them, but they were presented to us on a separate plate on a bed of lettuce! And at only $5, it was quite a deal.

Anchovies Served Atop a Lettuce Leaf For Caesar Salads

For $9, you can relish in the jumbo-sized chilled Shrimp Cocktail. Served on a bed of lettuce and Ruth’s Chris delicious New Orleans-style spicy cocktail sauce, this item is refreshing to enjoy and visually, a sight to behold.

Shrimp Cocktail

The next Prime Hour selection we recommend is the Crabtini Appetizer. Tender plump lump crab meat served in a chilled martini glass accompanied by lettuce leaves, a bell pepper garnish, the restaurant’s house vinaigrette and a delectable classic Remoulade sauce and hunks of white sweet crab meat just waiting to be devoured. This dish is $9 also, and comes with a stunning and colorful presentation, as you can see below.

Crabtini

Now we get to what Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse is known for. Their beef! Below, these Prime Sliders are a mere $7…with cheese! Soft mini hamburger buns show off what’s inside as melty cheddar cheese blends in nicely with these perfectly-prepared savory bites!

Prime Burger Sliders

Yum! Did somebody ask for Crab Stuffed Mushrooms? Because we tried those, too! These large broiled mushroom caps are stuffed with a lump crab meat stuffing, sprinkled with Romano cheese then baked to perfection! Enjoy these for a simple $7!

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Next, we ordered the Ruth’s Tenderloin Rolls, which are Ruth’s Chris tender mini steaks on soft melt-in-your-mouth buns in servings of three per order. Wow. That’s all we can say about these. Wow. Wow. Wow. And for only $9.

INSIDER’S TIP: Our tip for ordering these sumptuous bites of beef is to ask for some of the restaurant’s whipped cream horseradish sauce. Not that these delicious morsels of flavor need it, but we just enjoy adding a touch of this heavenly sauce to these Tenderloin Rolls. Give it a try. You’ll see what we mean!

Tenderloin Rolls

On to our next taste sensation! The Veal Osso Bucco Ravioli below. Large saffron-infused ravioli casings filled with Veal Osso Bucco and fresh Mozzarella cheese then served with baby spinach and a white wine demi-glace. Can you say CRAZY DELICIOUS! All for just $7!

Veal Osso Bucco Ravioli

Care for a little Big Easy in your Prime Hour? Then try your luck with the Ruth’s Chris outstanding $7 Barbequed Shrimp! These New Orleans-style sauteed shrimp are swimming in a reduction of white wine, butter, garlic and spices. However, this appetizer is not spicy. My husband really enjoyed this dish and had no problems with the spiciness whatsoever. There’s more of a hint of spice, but not hot enough to cause an issue.

Barbequed Shrimp

We could literally go on for days blogging about the Woodland Hills Ruth’s Chris Prime Hour. We were THAT impressed. But all good things must come to an end eventually. BUT FIRST…

Behold! The Ruth’s Chris Prime Burger & Fries Appetizer…

The Ruth’s Chris Prime Burger With Fries

Yes, this is an actual appetizer on the Prime Hour menu! It’s a massive burger made with only the best beef around and lands on our list of top five all-time favorite burgers! Served open-faced, this burger was cooked to our requested temperature, placed on a large hamburger bun, topped with a mountain of blue cheese, then plated with all the traditional accoutrements on the side. Once assembled, you can see in the photos above that it’s a colossol burger! At a mere $9, what could be better?

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The Ruth’s Chris spacious lounge can be described as Asian-modern with a trendy edge to it. We’ve found this establishment’s lounge to be quite accommodating for their Happy Hour activities.

FOOD / DRINK: Terrific steaks, incredible burgers, fun sliders, refreshing salads, outstanding beverages….okay, everything here is amazing!

LOCATION: The Woodland Hills Ruth’s Chris is located at the Westfield Towne Promenade Mall at 6100 Topanga Canyon Boulevard in Woodland Hills, CA in Suite 1360.

HOURS: Prime Hour is available Tuesday through Friday from 5PM to 7PM. However, on Fridays, you can start enjoying what is offered at 4:30 PM! But get there early on a Friday, because this space gets filled up quickly if you’re not in the know. Sundays and Mondays, Prime Hour selections are offered all night from 5PM until closing.

SERVICE / STAFF: Exceptional service every time we have visited this restaurant. Unparallelled customer service!

PRICE / VALUE: Amazing, amazing, amazing! Just go and you’ll see why we are so excited about the value of the Prime Hour menu!

CORKAGE FEE: In the lounge or main dining room, if you bring in a bottle to cork, there is a $15 corkage charge. Now we have to tell you this…if you bring in a bottle to have with dinner, then order even a half-bottle off the Ruth’s Chris menu, the restaurant will waive your $15 corkage charge! How’s that for a deal! And customer loyalty!

CONTACT INFO:Phone: (818) 227-9505. Website:www.ruthschris.com

PARKING: Valet parking is available, however there is ample parking in front of the restaurant in the parking lot and just a few short steps from the lot to the front door of this eatery.

TOTAL BILL: We’ve experienced this Prime Hour on a few ocassions, never having a bill that exceeded $40 (including tax). Of course, depending on how many items you order, the final bill will reflect those selections. We’re very happy with this Ruth’s Chris and will continue to return again and again.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

DANIEL’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE… “Restaurant By Day, Dance Club By Night!”

Posted on July 7, 2012 by savo0429

Situated in the Coligny Beach neighborhood on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, there is an innovative restaurant named Daniel’s. Opened in 2010, this fun and vibrant establishment will only enhance the culinary surprises that await your palate as Chef Russel Keane delivers a wonderful execution of his delightful preparations.

The stunning decor and colorful wood-intensified walls are catchy to the eye. Looking back at the front door after entering (above), there are cozy booth-like seats with narrow tables available and perfect for sipping cocktails. Below, the view entering the restaurant through the massively ornate entrance.

When you enter Daniel’s, to your immediate left is a bar area highlighted in light blue lights, while to your right is a dining area and additional bar enhanced with red lights, seemingly giving the space a fire-and-ice concept.

I snapped the below photo from our table. I was amazed by the intricacy of the design work on the walls and throughout the venue…

Every day from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, Daniel’s offers their Happy Hour menu to those visitors who are prepared to dive into all things delicious! We started with a glass of wine and a Bluetini…

Glass of Pinot Noir and a Bluetini

Crab Stuffed Salmon Sliders

Above and below, the savory and incredibly flavorsome Crab Stuffed Salmon Sliders were also divine. Their tender and crispy bread base, fresh arugula and tomato, fresh seared Atlantic salmon and creamy pickled sauce on top not only tasted unique, but also made for an extremely attractive offering…

Crab Stuffed Salmon Slider Close-Up

Below, the Bacon-Wrapped Medjool Dates were stuffed with almonds and Brie cheese then drizzled with a raspberry vinaigrette dressing and complimented with a touch of arugula…

Bacon Wrapped Medjool Dates

The Sicilian Bruschetta De Pomodoro was a savory delight as well with chopped black olives, fresh tomatoes and a feta salsa atop toasted garlic crostinis.

Sicilian Bruschetta De Pomodoro

With tapas choices large enough to share, the worldwide cuisine inspirations from Europe and the Mediterranean, Asia and India, and The Americas, as well as the unique transformation of the establishment after dinner is finished into an exciting night club, Daniel’s has become a quick favorite of Hilton Head Island locals and visitors alike.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Pictures are worth a thousand words, and the above photos show the interesting culmination of vibrant hues, colorful lighting and comfortable atmosphere at Daniel’s.

FOOD / DRINK: Crisp cocktails, savory wines and palatable cuisine served in a visually-stimulating manner.

LOCATION: Daniel’s is located at 2 North Forest Beach Drive – Suite 108 in Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.

HOURS: Daniel’s is open daily. Their Early Dining Menu is available every evening from 4 PM to 6 PM, while their Happy Hour and Tapas Menu is available daily from 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM. Please call for changes in the schedule before visiting, as times may vary for seasonal reasons.

SERVICE / STAFF: We were appreciative to receive attentive friendly service at Daniel’s.

PRICE / VALUE: Terrific prices for tapas large enough for two and discounted beverage prices during Happy Hour.

CORKAGE FEE: $10 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (843) 341-9379, Website: www.danielshhi.com

PARKING: There is ample parking in the private lot available to customers.

TOTAL BILL: We spent just under $35 (including tax) and were excited to receive such value for the quality of what we received.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

BAYSIDE… “Upscale Relaxed Elegance With Stunning Harbor Views!”

Posted on July 3, 2012 by savo0429

For years, my husband and I have frequented Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach. It’s elegance, sophistication, European-influenced modern-American cuisine and enchanting ambiance has never failed us. Overlooking the harbor in Newport Beach, Chef Paul Gstrein composes his culinary surprises in the Bayside kitchen, while patrons relax and enjoy the view of the harbor and delight in the sounds of nightly live entertainment.

My husband favors Bayside’s hamburgers, as do I. So, when we were informed that “Tuesday’s aren’t just for tacos anymore”, as their ad campaign cleverly states, we had to start frequenting one of our top ten favorite places on Tuesdays more often. Starting at 7 PM every Tuesday, their enormous burgers are only $7 from their normal price at $15.75. Quite a bargain, especially if you’re at Bayside for their Happy Hour.

Speaking of that favorite time of day, Bayside features it’s Happy Hour in the lounge, at the bar and on the terrace daily from 5 PM to close. It’s a fairly extensive menu, including cocktails and small plate fare in a traditional, beautifully-presented Californian style.

Glasses of Chardonnay and Merlot are a simple $6 each, while the Cabernet is an easy $7.50. Seagram’s Vodka martinis include the traditional Cosmopolitan, the Watermelon martini and their Classic version as well. The photo below shows the Watermelon martinis we tried (actually, we try them pretty often!)

A nice touch to Bayside’s table service during their Happy Hour is that they bring out warm ciabatta bread to your table…even if you’re just ordering appetizers. These fresh-baked rolls of beautiful baked dough couldn’t be more perfect. Served with small ramekins of chilled sweet cream butter, these compliment any meal that follows.

Now on to those amazing hamburgers we mentioned. Below is the burger my husband cannot live without. Offered with crisp lettuce, sliced tomato and mayo, you will not believe the incredible flavor that comes from this sandwich! Tender, juicy, cooked to perfection, and the crunchy, yet soft toasted ciabatta bun really hits the mark!

Below, I had to show just how beautiful this burger is…and how massive!

We have also indulged in Bayside’s Chicken Chop-Chop Salad with Asian slaw and a spicy sesame dressing below…crunchy tortilla strips on top with succulent white meat chicken chunks that scream savory!

The Smoked Scottish Salmon was fantastic. Delicate flavorsome slices of smoked salmon, fresh dill, a warm blini (small Russian pancake) on top, onion, and a lemon Aioli with traditional capers add additional flavor to this sumptuous selection…

Bayside’s Happy Hour Penne Pasta with its full-flavored lamb ragu and Pecorino cheese sprinkled on top is merely heaven on a plate. Large enough for two, it is one of the many excellent small plates we recommend ordering.

We appreciated the Autumn Salad below also. Prepared with arugula, pear, grapes, blue cheese, onion, and proscuitto, this was a flavorful and light-tasting choice that is almost a meal in itself…

Another item on Bayside’s Happy Hour Small Plates menu we suggest are the Tiger Prawns served over a couscous salad with crisp vegetables. The couscous is cooked just right, and the prawns are perfectly tender and delicious!

Finally, an item my husband and I have been enjoying for nearly ten years…Bayside’s classic Tartare Of Tuna lightly spiced with soy, chili and ginger, crushed avocado and sensational fresh tuna served on a bed of thinly-sliced cucumber. Though this item is not on the Happy Hour Small Plates menu, it is on the restaurant’s lunch menu for $14.75. And trust our many evenings of indulging in this specific appetizer over the years that it’s certainly worth it!

INSIDER’S TIP: If you prefer to dine into the late evening hours, just keep in mind that the kitchen at Bayside closes promptly at 9:30 PM. So if you arrive later than most, be prepared to place your order before then. In the meantime, the bar still serves its patrons until 10 PM.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The towering ceilings and ecru canvas triangles draped above the bar are reminiscent of a vintage sailing vessel afloat on an open sea, while the enlightening west coast beachy feel can be felt throughout. The unique rotating modern art exhibit suspended on the interior walls of the venue also serves as a terrific conversation piece that is also available for sale.

FOOD / DRINK: Without exception, extraordinary. Consistent and inspirational.

LOCATION: Bayside is located at 900 Bayside Drive in Newport Beach, CA 92660.

HOURS: Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM – 5 PM, Sunday brunch is held from 11 AM – 3 PM, dinner is offered Sunday through Wednesday from 5 PM – 10 PM, then Thursdays from 5 PM – 10:30 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 PM – 11 PM. Bayside’s terrific Happy Hour is presented daily from 5 PM until closing in the bar and lounge.

SERVICE / STAFF: Marissa is our usual server, and if you are fortunate to be seated in her section of the lounge, you will not go forgotten. Her excellence in customer service and kind friendly smile emphasizes her genuine persona and tactful concern for her customers.

PRICE / VALUE: Incredibly reasonable price with an unmatched value that you will not likely forget!

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle any day of the week, any time of the day.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (949) 721-1222, Website: www.baysiderestaurant.com

PARKING: Valet parking at Bayside is complimentary. There is also ample self-parking available beside the restaurant.

TOTAL BILL: We’ve visited Bayside so many times to specifically state a certain total, but on our last visit, we enjoyed their Burger Tuesday and Happy Hour with one of their savory burgers, a couple of Happy Hour cocktails as well as their popular Tartare of Tuna for a total of $54.15 (including tax). Well worth the splurge, as you will find out on your next visit to this fine harbor view establishment!

TRULUCK’S SAN DIEGO… “La Jolla’s ‘True Luck’ Restaurant!”

Posted on June 27, 2012 by savo0429

Well, we said we would do it, and we did. After our experience in Miami at the Truluck’s restaurant there, we had to try the one in San Diego to see if it compared. And compare it did! There’s really nothing negative we can say about this seafood and steak restaurant. It’s more of an institution really. The quality, consistency, precision to detail, competitive customer service and above average overall ambiance is just incredible. Known countrywide for their incredible award-winning seafood, stone crab claws, and succulent steaks, Truluck’s is by far a leading company far ahead of the game.

The entrance to the San Diego Truluck’s near La Jolla is welcoming, offers spacious outdoor patios and allows for most any celebration to be enjoyed easily.

Above, the huge glass-encased wine cellar right next to our table. We dined at the Captain’s Table, which is where the owner sits when he visits the restaurant. Request this location when you have dinner here. The view from the table allows for oversight of most everything going on in the establishment from the lounge, the entertainment at the Baby Grand and the entire restaurant. No wonder Truluck’s San Diego was voted “Best Wine List” in 2011 by the San Diego Magazine Reader’s Poll and The Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence!

But that’s not the only recognition this specific Truluck’s has received. There’s much more to their list of accreditations:

Best of the Best 2011 / 2012 and Best Seafood 2011 / 2012 by the San Diego Magazine Reader’s Poll, the Best Service 2012 San Diego Magazine Critic’s Choice Award, Best Happy Hour 2011 and Best Service 2011 by San Diego Magazine Reader’s Poll, Best of the Best, Best Seafood, Most Impressive Decor, Best Service and Happiest Happy Hour by San Diego Home & Garden Lifestyles, Best Service, Best Wine List, and Best Seafood by SanDiegoRestaurants.com (Diner’s Poll), Best Steak by La Jolla Light Reader’s Poll, and was rated Excellent for food and service in 2011 by Zagat. And there are plenty more where those came from!

The Truluck’s menu…just wait until you see what’s inside!

Fresh Delectable Bread Service

Fresh crusty bread is promptly served to the table by an attentive waiter. Chilled sweet cream butter is also provided.

Crab Display Before Ordering

The presentation of one of Truluck’s best-known specialties…crab claws…is presented to patrons before ordering. This is not only entertaining, but the visual enchantment is also worth while. I snapped a photo as our server was explaining their offerings of the evening above.

Pinot Noir Selection From the Wine Cellar

Upon arriving, we chose a bottle of 2009 Tolosa Pinot Noir, which we both enjoyed. Its huge nose and delicious finish was perfect for sipping while waiting to be served dinner.

Large Stone Crab Claws

As a starter, we selected four of Truluck’s Stone Crab claws. Pre-cracked for ease of enjoying and served over ice with lemon and a creamy tasteful sauce, we knew these would be delectable. And they were!

Truluck’s Wedge Salad

Next, we agreed to share one of the Wedge Salads, which was so memorable from our visit to the Miami, FL Truluck’s. It was just as good at this locale, if not better! Crisp, chilled and a beautiful visual presentation with all the flavor sensations we remembered from before.

Filet Mignon Oscar-Style

Above and below, the Filet Oscar was cooked to a perfect medium temperature and was accompanied with an Oscar topping of grilled asparagus, fresh crab meat and Bearnaise sauce. What a beautifully presented and visually-pleasing contract against the brilliant green asparagus. We did, however, get a little carried away with the Bearnaise sauce!

Interior View of the Filet Mignon…with Extra Bearnaise Sauce!

We enjoyed the below dish so much during our Truluck’s experience in Miami that we had to get it again in CA. The Miso-Glazed Sea Bass…MSC certified South Georgia Chilean Sea Bass served with crab fried rice and a chilled cucumber slaw. Immensely satisfying from first bite to the last taste on your fork, this is one of our all-time favorite Sea Bass dishes ever! The crab fried rice beneath is tender and erupting with flavor, while the Chilean Sea Bass is delicate, tender and almost melts in your mouth upon contact!

Miso- Glazed Sea Bass with Crab Fried Rice

Of course, our server had to present us with their dessert tray after dinner. The below left photo shows Truluck’s extensive array of sweet temptations. However, you already know what we ordered, probably…the Carrot Cake! A little coffee on the side led to the perfect conclusion to a wonderful meal, spectacular service and amazing ambiance!

By the way…I know I mentioned this in our review of the Miami Truluck’s restaurant some time ago, but this restaurant has THE BEST CARROT CAKE EVER!!!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Having been voted ‘ Most Impressive Decor’ by San Diego Home & Garden Lifestyles, there’s reason this happened. Truluck’s signature underwater vases of pale pink orchids are displayed atop the division wall between the lounge and the main restaurant, while the upscale feel of the steakhouse and seafood haven will have you relaxed, feeling at home and enjoying the intricate detailed design of the entire establishment.

FOOD / DRINK: Amazing Stone crab claws, succulent steaks, crisp salads and refreshing beverages. There’s not a thing that we found to be unsatisfactory during our attendance for dinner.

LOCATION: This Truluck’s restaurant is located near La Jolla at 8990 University Center Lane in San Diego, CA 92122.

HOURS: Truluck’s in San Diego is open daily for Dinner Monday through Saturday from 5 PM – 10 PM, and on Sunday evenings from 5 Pm – 9 PM. The Stone Crab lounge is open daily from 4:30 PM, where cocktail hour is presented until 7:30 PM Monday through Sunday.

SERVICE / STAFF: Todd Perry, a managing partner of the establishment, made sure we were seated in a satisfactory location with a beautiful view inside of the entire restaurant. Corey was our waiter, and we cannot express in words his exemplary service. Corey was informative, enlightening, amusing and supportive throughout our entire meal. We’ll be sure to request his section the next time we dine at the San Diego Truluck’s.

PRICE / VALUE: Taking a look at what we enjoyed for dinner, we expected the price for everything to exceed $100, which it did. But well worth the splurge, and well worth the additional consideration when we added in the quality of the cuisine we enjoyed, the incredible and attentive service and the stunning interior decor.

CORKAGE FEE: $20 per bottle, just remember that on Wednesdays if you purchase a bottle of select wine or champagne from the bar, they will give you 50% off the regular price!

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (858) 453-2583, Website: www.trulucks.com

PARKING: Self parking is available for guests in the adjacent parking garage, however we recommend the valet service for a simple $8. It will save you a lot of time and allow you to relax and not have to worry about parking your vehicle.

TOTAL BILL: Our total bill came in over $100, but we were more than happy to accept that charge considering what we received.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

BOA STEAKHOUSE… “Modern Steakhouse Excellence!”

Posted on June 19, 2012 by savo0429

During a recent visit to BOA on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, we indulged in their 5 – 7 PM weekday Happy Hour. We arrived just after 5 PM, and the restaurant was already buzzing with excitement.

Upon entering this posh, upscale modernized steakhouse, we were filled with a sense of excitement and were instantly enveloped inside a world of visual complacency.

The red granite bar top coordinates nicely with the red-interiored wooden boxes clustered together above you on the ceiling…calming wood tones and calming hues abound throughout the interior lounge areas.

As welcoming as the indoor living room like lounge in front of the inside bar appeared, we just couldn’t resist sitting outside on the roofless patio lounge in front of a flickering fireplace…adorned with tall clear glass vases filled with underwater orchids.

BOA offers several delicious options to select from on their Monday through Friday Happy Hour menu. Such intriguing fare includes the Ahi Tacos – $7 (normally $12), the Smoked Salmon & Goat Cheese Pizzetta – $9 (normally $14), Spicy Steak Tartar On a Crispy Rice Cake – $7 (usually $11), the popular BOA Burger Sliders – $8 (normally $10), the Ahi Tuna Cruso – $9 (usually $14), Boneless Sweet Thai Chicken Wings – $6 (usually $10), the Marinated Skirt Steak Pinwheels – $6 (normally $12), the Charcuterie & Cheese Plate – $17 (usually $22), Fried Pickles – $6 (usually $8), Kobe Corn Dogs – $6 (usually $10), Crispy Calamari – $7 (normally $12), and the BOA Crudite – $7 (usually $12).

The Happy Hour menu exhibits tasty libations to enjoy such as the BOA Infusion for $7, the Fleetwood Margarita for $8, their Luckman Martini at $9, Select Imported Beers for $6 each, Prosecco and Red Wine for $6 a glass, and White Wine for $5. A lot of variety to suit a lot of tastes.

Fleetwood Margarita and the BOA Infusion

Above, the Fleetwood Margarita and BOA Infusion served in a martini glass were exhilaratingly cool and revitalizing, while the Ahi Tacos below were savory and spicy, filled with tomato, onion, with a delightful crunch.fresh Ahi tuna and creamy avocado.

Ahi Tacos

The Marinated Skirt Steak Pinwheels below were incredible. Wrapped around tender cooked pearl onions, the savory beef slices will delight your taste buds and satisfy even the pickiest beef fanatics.

Marinated Skirt Steak Pinwheels

Below, the BOA Burger Sliders were perfectly cooked to our preference and were surrounded by tender mini buns, melted cheese and thin onion strings.

BOA Burger Sliders

Below, the inside of one of the BOA Burger Sliders.

We very much enjoyed our visit to BOA on Sunset Boulevard. When we return, we will bring some friends and go for dinner in the out-of-doors dining room and watch the transformation as the sun goes down and the lights of BOA come alive and enchant us with its upscale alluring ambiance throughout the night!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The architecture and unique decor of both the indoors and out-of-doors spaces at BOA allows for everything you can imagine. Watching sports in the lounge, visiting with friends on a comfortable sofa in front of the indoor bar, meeting new friends on the open air fireplace-adorned outdoor patio lounge…the possibilities are endless.

FOOD / DRINK: Incredible unique cuisine bursting with flavor and enjoyable to the last savory morsel. There;s no such thing as a bad dish at BOA Steakhouse.

LOCATION: BOA Steakhouse is located at 9200 Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, CA 90069.

HOURS: The BOA Steakhouse on Sunset Boulevard is open for Lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Dinner is served Sunday through Monday from 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM, Tuesday through Wednesday from 5:30 PM -11 PM, and Thursdays through Saturdays from 5:30 PM – 12:00 AM. Happy hour is available Monday through Friday from 5 PM – 7 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Waitresses are happy to serve their customers and are polite and gracious.

PRICE / VALUE: The Happy Hour cocktail and appetizer menu was perfect for cocktails and a few appetizers before going to dinner. Unfortunately, we were meeting friends at another establishment for that, so we didn’t get to experience a full dining experience at BOA. Next time, however, we’ll pick the restaurant for dinner!

CORKAGE FEE: The corkage fee at BOA on Sunset is $25 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 278-2050, Website: www.boasteak.com

TOTAL BILL: For one Fleetwood Margarita, one BOA Infusion, an order of the Ahi Tacos, the Marinated skirt Steak Pinwheels and also the BOA Burger Sliders, our total bill was $39.15. A great bargain for such distinct culinary creations surrounded by such a beautiful modern and unique atmosphere.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

PALOMINO RESTAURANT & BAR… “Happy Hour All Day, Every Day!”

Posted on June 13, 2012 by savo0429

In the ten thousand block of Wilshire Boulevard in the Westwood area of Los Angeles, there’s a local restaurant and lounge called Palomino. Known for it’s hardwood-fired Mediterranean cuisine and creative culinary menu, Palomino also offers a refreshing Happy Hour. All day, every day in the immense lounge Monday through Friday from 11AM to Midnight, then Saturday and Sunday from 4PM into the late evening hours, a menu of unique and appetizing items are presented for your dining and sipping pleasure. We stopped in recently, curious what Palomino might have to offer in this terrific section of the city. For a Sunday afternoon, it turned out to be the perfect place to enjoy an invigorating cocktail and a few of the delicious appetizers offered on their Happy Hour menu.

The bar in the lounge is massive. Certainly a great place to meet new friends and gather with others for special occassions and still have the spaciousness needed to have a great time without feeling overly crowded. We arrived around 6:30 PM, and the lounge wasn’t packed at all. In fact, we quite enjoyed the this time of day there because even with eight tables occupied in the bar, we still felt as though we were the only ones there. We could hear each other talking and could carry on a conversation without screaming at the top of our lungs, which was appreciated. The soft comfortable burgundy leather chairs offer somewhat of a steakhouse booth feel the instant you are seated. Displayed art on the lounge walls is an eye-catching exhibition and a colorful contrast to the beautiful deep-colored wood and elongated marble bar complimented by a light colored polished floor.

Our server, Jeffrey, was incredibly attentive and adept. He made suggestions from the ongoing Happy Hour items that proved to be flavorful as well as appealing to the eye.

Cranberry Mojito

My husband tried Palomino’s Cranberry Mojito above. It was crisp, refreshing, loaded with fresh mint leaves and had a cranberry essence that wasn’t too overpowering. Incredible and a fairly large portion served in a tall glass.

Pomegranate Margarita

Above, I chose the Pomegranate Margarita. Not too sweet. Not too tart. Just perfectly mixed by hand at the bar and garnished with a simple salted rim.

We wanted to try one of the Happy Hour wines as well. Since we are predominantly red wine aficionados, we chose the above Cabernet on the list, which our bartender graciously poured a sample of to try before having a full glass. It wasn’t bad considering it wasn’t what we’re used to drinking, but when we asked what Palomino’s corkage fee is for future reference, we were told $13 in the lounge or the restaurant! We’ll keep that in mind for next time!

On the Happy Hour appetizer front, we chose three items we thought we would enjoy: the Italian Sausage & Mushroom Pizza, the Grilled Mushroom Salad and we couldn’t resist the sound of the Mushroom & Cheese Risotto Croquettes! There seemed to be a mushroom theme going on since everything we ordered was made with the delightful and healthy fungi…

Italian Sausage & Mushroom Pizza

The Italian Sausage wasn’t too spicy, but it had the perfect amount of flavor. Above, the thin crunchy crust was enjoyed by us both, while the zesty sauce and freshly-sliced mushrooms blended with cheese and fresh parsley on top completed the dish nicely.

Grilled Mushroom Salad

Above, the Grilled Mushroom Salad was a real treat. Loaded with thickly-sliced mushrooms and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, the salad is then tossed in a delicious house vinaigrette and topped with walnuts over a pile of arugula. We weren’t sure it would be large enough for the two of us to share, but it was. And incredibly tasty!

Mushroom & Cheese Risotto Croquettes

Finally, the Mushroom and Cheese Risotto Croquettes arrived! This dish arrives with two sauces for sipping. The first from the left above, a creamy delectable mixture and not spicy, while the other on the right, a marinara-style solution with a zesty flavor. Both terrific with these crispy-on-the-outside, yet creamy-and-bursting-with-flavor-on-the-inside croquettes. Filled with perfectly-cooked risotto, gooey cheese and fresh mushrooms, this is a fried delight that you dare not miss out on! Below, we cut one of the croquettes in half to show you just how amazing the fillings of cheese, mushroom and risotto appear…

Overall, our experience at Palomino was satisfactory. We can see ourselves returning soon, and maybe even bringing along some friends to enjoy the Happy Hour there!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Palomino’s Lounge is highlighted by it’s massive, rounded marble-topped dark wood bar, colorful artwork, comfortable leather chairs at low-top tables and an excellent view out of any of the huge wall windows in the cocktail lounge.

FOOD / DRINK: Freshly-prepared selections that are tasty and creatively presented.

LOCATION: Palomino is located in Westwood at 10877 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90024.

HOURS: Palomino Westwood is open for Lunch Monday through Friday from 11AM to 4PM, for Dinner from Sunday through Thursday from 5PM to 10PM then on Friday and Saturday from 5PM to 11PM, and the Bar Area is available Monday through Friday from 11AM to Midnight and Saturday and Sunday from 4PM to 11PM. Happy Hour is presented all day, every day in the bar.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our waiter and bartender, Jeffrey, was very professional, was happy to make suggestions and answer questions and was genuinely pleasant.

PRICE / VALUE: For what we ordered, and the quality of the drinks and bites we enjoyed, we felt satisfied that we got a decent value for the money.

CORKAGE FEE: $13 per bottle in the lounge or in the restaurant.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 208-1960, Website: www.palomino.com

PARKING: Valet parking is available right outside the restaurant, however there is ample metered street parking right across the street that is very convenient as well.

TOTAL BILL: $36.82 (including tax) for the Italian Sausage and Mushroom Pizza, Grilled Mushroom Salad, Mushroom & Cheese Risotto Croquettes, a Cranberry Mojito, a Pomegranate Margarita and a glass of their Happy Hour Cabernet.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

ANDERSEN’S DANISH BAKERY & RESTAURANT… “The Perfect Spot For Dinner After a Day of Wine Tasting In Santa Ynez!”

Posted on June 12, 2012 by savo0429

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Amidst the seaside community of Santa Barbara runs the major vein and heartbeat of the city…State Street. Seemingly continuing on forever, one can get lost in the varied array of shops, restaurants, and other venues to choose from. Among that vast selection lies Andersen’s Restaurant & Bakery, a family owned and operated eatery that boasts fresh European cuisine and an in-house Danish bakery. Originally established in Copenhagen in 1953, then in the Santa Barbara location in 1976, Andersen’s has been catering to the culinary cravings of their patrons for more than forty years in total. With their exquisite dishes and in-house bakery, it’s no wonder so many flock to this restaurant for Breakfast, Lunch, High and Low Tea, Happy Hour, Dinner and special occasions and events. After a day of wine tasting in Santa Ynez, it was the locale my husband and I chose for dinner before our drive back home.

With dining areas both inside the restaurant and outside under their covered patio with excellent views of State Street and passers-by, we elected to choose the out-of-doors option, as it was a beautiful sunny day with a pleasant breeze from the ocean gently embracing the town.

Originally there for a relaxing dinner, we were informed that Andersen’s also hosts a Happy Hour. From 3 PM – 7 PM every day, you can enjoy select wines for just $6. And guess what else? With every glass of Happy Hour wine ordered, Andersen’s will give you a free crostini!

A crunchy toasted baguette piled high with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic and ricotta cheese. What a nice bonus to the evening!

We were greeted by a cheerful kind waitress who was very knowledgeable about the menu and the establishment. Our inquiries were answered with ease and confidence. Black leather bound menus were then presented to us, and we were allowed a few minutes to peruse the many appetizing opportunities.

Another staff member stopped by our table with a freshly-baked basket of what tasted like a tender challah bread and butter in a small round ramekin. Another immediately followed with two glasses of iced water for the table. A few minutes later, as promised, our waitress returned smiling and took our order…

Smoked Salmon Appetizer

We started our dinner experience with the Smoked Salmon appetizer above. Chilled, tender smoked salmon joined by Havarti cheese, dill sauce, capers and onions served on a crusted flavorsome bread.

Andersen’s Sole Almondine

My husband chose Andersen’s Sole Almondine above for his entree. Local sole lightly breaded and pan sauteed in butter, fresh herbed vegetables and a creamy remoulade sauce. Below, I decided on the Salmon Wellington, which consisted of a filet of fresh salmon in Andersen’s flaky puff pastry accompanied by cilantro-infused vegetables, herb-encrusted potatoes and a lemon buerre blanc. Both simply divine!

Salmon Wellington

Though we did not have any room for something sweet after dinner, I did snap a photo of the dessert selections that our waitress brought by…

Andersen’s recently underwent an addition to their already popular Santa Barbara location. Their new LisseLotte Room serves as a favorite for locals and travelers alike to celebrate special events such as private parites, and family gatherings that can accommodate up to 100 guests. Reservations are requested, however, so if you decide to take advantage of this beautiful space for your next gathering, please call Andersen’s at (805)962-5085 to book your special event. In addition to reserving this special room for your celebrations and get-togethers, Andersen’s also presents their Music & Prix Fixe menu inside the addition. The Chef’s selective preparations combined with soothing Jazz and Bosonova tunes for one low price will enlighten your mood and have you waiting to return! Please contact the restaurant for their updated performance schedule.

Before you leave Andersen’s, make a point to walk through to their in-house bakery below. Quaint and inviting with a large array of Dutch pastries and other goodies, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy.

After my husband and I left Andersen’s, we headed back to West Los Angeles before dark, but not before making a stop at the Santa Monica beach near Stearns Wharf. We parked the car, took our shoes off and took a walk hand-in-hand to the sandy beach and just sat for about a half hour watching a paddle boarder swoosh past and the sailboats anchored in the distance nod in the gentle ocean movement of the Pacific Ocean. The perfect end of the day with the perfect company and the sound and peacefulness of the voice of the ocean crashing onto a quiet shore…a terrific place to share an Andersen’s pastry with someone you love!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The establishment in general is cozy, romantic, has easy access to the in-house bakery and is a perfect setting for a peaceful dining engagement either in or out-of-doors.

FOOD / DRINK: Culinary excellence joined by a terrific cocktail selection, enhanced by a great Happy Hour!

LOCATION: Andersen’s is located at 1106 State Street in Santa Barbara, CA 93101.

HOURS: Monday through Sunday from 8AM to 9PM. Breakfast starts daily at 8AM, Dinner begins at 5PM, High Tea is available with a reservation between 2PM and 5PM, while Low Tea is offered daily anytime in a plate version with a unique menu unlike high Tea, which is served on a tiered platter that easily serves two or more individuals.

SERVICE / STAFF: Excellent attentiveness, courteousness and efficiency.

PRICE / VALUE: For the money, Andersen’s provides culinary splendor served by caring staff in a beautiful cafe-style environment definitely worth revisiting.

CORKAGE FEE: Andersen’s corkage fee is $20 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (805) 962-5085, Website: www.andersenssantabarbara.com

PARKING: The best parking option we recommend is parking in one of the public parking garages for a minimal fee, then walking along State Street to the restaurant. There’s a lot to see and you can also get some shopping done along the way!

TOTAL BILL: Our total bill for two glasses of Happy Hour wine, two free crostinis, one order of the Smoked Salmon appetizer, the Sole Almondine and the Salmon Wellington came to $70.90, but the splurge was absolutely worth the additional money! We’ll look forward returning to try some of their other favorites on the menu soon!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

HOUSE OF CHAN DARA SIAMESE KITCHEN… “How Did We Ever Miss This?”

Posted on June 11, 2012 by savo0429

As many times as we have frequented the char-ming Larchmont Boulevard in mid-city Los Angeles, we’ve never stopped in at Chan Dara restaurant. It’s sits modestly on the north side of the boulevard, and expels a modest ivy-covered exterior, cleverly blending into the quaintness of the entire area. We were introduced to Chan Dara by a friend who suggested we meet him for their daily Happy Hour, as he had been several times before and was extremely pleased with what he discovered. (Thanks for the recommendation, Gene!) We did just that and soon realized what he had been raving about. We also couldn’t figure out how we ever missed this great eatery!

Chan Dara’s Happy Hour is offered Monday through Friday from 5-7PM, while on Saturdays and Sundays it lasts from 5-6 PM, specifically in the bar area. You can elect to take a seat at the bar, or one of several cozy corner seating areas or seats along the windows with colorful cushions. Simple and unobtrusive, the bar conveys elements of ease and a very casual ambiance.

Just outside large windows, you’ll see the Chan Dara patio complete with flowing fountains, umbrellas shielding their tables and visitors from the sun, and in the evenings when darkness prevails, romantic lighting for an intimate dinner. Concealed from the sidewalk by an ivy-cloaked sur-rounding wall, the patio is a great place for non-Happy Hour dining.

Chan Dara’s Happy Hour menu offers outrageous bargains on their already low-priced appetizers and cocktails. Try 50% off everything on their Happy Hour menu…drinks AND appetizers! Though not a full bar like it’s sister restaurant on West Pico Boulevard, the Larchmont Boulevard Chan Dara offers…wait for it….TWENTY-THREE COCKTAILS utilizing the popular Soju substitute. In addition to those concoctions, there are TWENTY-TWO beer selections, five wine choices and sake.

A few of those Soju-laden martinis include the following: (Clockwise from top left) the Lychee Martini, the Raspberry Martini, the Mango Martini and the Raspberry Lemondrop Martini.

But the cocktails at Chan Dara are only half of the fun at this quaint neighborhood venue. A list of delightful freshly-prepared appetizers will delight your senses and amaze your visual perception with the presentation alone! Below are some of the incredibly delicious items at 50% off the already low Happy Hour menu that we have tried:

The Saigon Spring Rolls (above) wrapped in delicate chilled rice sheets are filled with glass noodles, bean sprouts, scallions and fresh large shrimp. Served with Chan Dara’s sweet and sour tamarind sauce, it was the perfect starter. Below, the Mixed Green Salad is a great simple salad bursting with flavor. A peanut dressing, pictured here, or an option of a sesame vinaigrette can be ordered with this dish. We favor the peanut dressing!

The Beef Tenderloin Satay (sold in four or six skewers) are amazing. Marinated and grilled on wooden skewers, the tender flavorful beef is complimented with peanut sauce and a sweet cucumber salsa (above). Below, thinly sliced calamari is sauteed in a garlic wine sauce and masako is a unique treat. If the sauce alone was offered as a broth selection on the menu, I would order it every time we visit it’s so savory!

The Chicken Satay is also marinated on wooden skewers (above), and is served with peanut sauce and a cucumber salsa like the Beef Tenderloin Satay. Tender and mouthwatering, the Chicken Satay is another wonderful offering on the menu. Below, the Nam, lean ground pork seasoned with chili, lime juice, cilantro, onion, ginger and cashew nuts is a conglo-meration of deliciousness in one dish! I loved how the fresh cilantro and fresh lime on top enhanced the essence of the entire dish.

INSIDER’S TIP: The Nam is prepared “spicy”, however, you may request it to be cooked “mild” or “non-spicy”. We chose “mild”, and it was still too spicy for us both! (However, I did take the rest of it home with me, and finished it later in the evening despite the heat!)

Chan Dara on Larchmont is a new favorite of ours for great Thai cuisine. The establishment is simple, cozy and casual, while the portions are large and presentations of their cuisine are a sight to behold.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Casual-cozy with a patio that is ideal for the romantic evening dinner or a memorable lunch on the weekends.

FOOD / DRINK: Eye-catching presentation, savory flavors, unique options and superb quality.

LOCATION: Chan Dara is located at 310 Larchmont Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA 90004.

HOURS: Chan Dara Larchmont is open Monday – Thursday from 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM, Fridays from 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Saturdays from 12:30 AM – 11:00 PM, and Sundays from 12:30 AM – 10:00 PM. Happy Hour is available Monday through Friday from 5 PM to 7 PM, and from 5 PM to 6 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Both food and beverage must be purchased in order to receive the 50% off Happy Hour discount in the bar.

SERVICE / STAFF: The staff is attentive and friendly, while the service is quick and reliable.

PRICE / VALUE: Well worth the price for such a value. We were amazed by the overly-reduced prices of the 50% off Happy Hour menu…on TOP of the already-low appetizer items!

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (323) 467-1052, Website: www.chandararestaurants.com

PARKING: Valet parking is available at the front of the restaurant, but we usually just park along Larchmont’s many metered street parking spaces under one of the shady trees.

TOTAL BILL: One visit to Chan Dara, we ordered the Saigon Spring Rolls (normally $8.50), the 6-piece Beef Tenderloin Satay (normally $13.50), a Mixed Green Salad (on the regular menu for $4.95), and we lost track of the martinis and wine we all had because we were entertaining. That bill totaled right under $60, which would have normally been a $120 bill, but everything was 50% off! HOWEVER…recently, my husband and I went back during Happy Hour and had the 4-piece Chicken Satay, the Calamari Chardonnay, the Nam and three cocktails bringing that total to $28.22 (including tax)! For the value of what we got, the filling portions and the rock-bottom pricing during Happy Hour for the quality of the items offered, Chan Dara Larchmont lands as one of SavorHour.com’s top recommendations for Happy Hour!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

CAFE LA BOHEME… “A Night at the Opera!”

Posted on June 8, 2012 by savo0429

It may not truly be an evening at the opera, but in essence, it is all one might expect at the Met in New York or the Music Center here in Los Angeles: intriguing ambiance, dramatic decor, unparalleled presentation, and an elegant performance. You can get that and more when you experience dining at the iconic Cafe La Boheme in West Hollywood. After 20 years of successful business, this grand establishment was completely remodeled in 2007 by famed restaurant designer, Margaret O’ Brien. The result? Perfection to the eye and the initial overture for the incredible experience you will attain at this illustrious institution sitting elegantly on Santa Monica Boulevard. General Manager, Thomas Lynam, executes a seamless operation of this fine establishment, while making sure everyone who enters the doors of La Boheme is happy and comfortable. Exquisite savory temptations made available by Executive Chef Christine Banto display her accomplished creativeness, which is revealed in her California-Mediterranean dishes that portray evidence of Asian influences. The curtains have risen, and the manifestation of a performance not to be missed begins this opera of both visual and culinary excellence. You have arrived at Cafe La Boheme…

Through the main threshold of the restaurant, a stunning display of color and glamor ushers you into its dazzling existence. This eatery will not only have you seeing red (literally), but also deep hues of blacks, muted silvers, reflective mirrors and vibrant ornate crystal chandeliers lowered from a massive cathedral ceiling. A most unexpected prelude to the dining experience, the decor is just the lead-in to Cafe La Boheme’s numerous unique and note-worthy attributes.

From the moment you enter this domicile, there is instant realization that you’ve entered someplace amazing. The feel is somewhat theatrical and the sultry allure wraps you in an inviting comfort as a hostess greets you and escorts you to your table immediately. The elegant goth-esque embellishments and one-of-a-kind ornamentation in this dwelling will leave you breathless and anxiously awaiting the next act of this gastronomic experience. Well-dressed hardwood tables and black leather chairs and semi-private booths, both on the main dining floor and above on the balcony surrounding the dining activity, are both inviting and comfortable and ready to make you feel at home in this upscale, yet very welcoming and chic environment.

Two specific rare bronze sculptures stand haughtily between the lounge and the first floor dining area. The first, a statue of a woman with multiple arms possessing obvious thoughts of life and love, displaying various objects in each hand while one holds the world on her shoulders. The other, a spinning gyroscope mounted near the bar that you cannot miss. Servers and attendants who walk past this immense conversation piece will stop briefly to whirl it’s massive orbs, sending the art round and round until it stops eventually for it’s next swift revolution. This act has become tradition since the building was erected more than twenty years ago, as these sculptures were once part of the original Cafe La Boheme before it’s 2007 renovation.

A well-dressed server arrives before you know it and begins his knowledgeable aria of the delectable options on the evening’s menu. The selections change seasonally. However, there have been a few popular items left for longer durations due to popular demand. Such palatable pleasures include starters like the Tuna Tataki the La Boheme Soup of the Day, the Chicken Liver Pate, and the Crispy Blue Crab Cake. There is a refreshing collection of salads to suit any preference, while the Pasts & Risotto options will leave you anxiously inquisitive. We’ve enjoyed the Japanese Pumpkin Ravioli on more than one occasion. With it’s candied pumpkin seeds and brown butter sage sauce, I was dumbfounded. (I literally may never have pumpkin ravioli anywhere else again after having it here)! Another favorite of ours if the Pappardelle Bolognese with shaved Parmigiano cheese. The perfect amount of sumptuous Bolognese sauce mixed into thin, perfectly al dente Pappardelle pasta ribbons is sure to make you smile with delight. Chef Banta’s risotto dishes are equally unparalleled in quality and flavor. The Wild Mushroom Risotto with lemon confit, fresh herbs and Pecorino cheese is a richly-endowed treat, while the Farro Risotto offers creaminess heightened in essence by kale, fresh corn, oven roasted tomatoes and edamame.

Before your order is taken from one of several attentive and efficient waiters, (Kevin, Sterling and Hector won’t steer you wrong), fresh house-baked warm focaccia bread is placed before you accompanied by a ramekin of white bean puree dip. Who needs butter or olive oil with this superior spread? Try to get through your bread basket and vessel of this silky smooth topper without ordering more. We certainly never can!

Cafe La Boheme’s main dishes emit attention to detail in their presentation as well as a flavorsome disposition. Chef Banta has no qualms about perfection in flavor or visual appeal when dispatching her cuisine out of the kitchen into the dining room to anxiously-awaiting patrons. A few of our favorite and most-loved dinner entrees consist of the Herb-Marinated Hanger Steak, the popular 6-Ounce Filet Mignon, the Seared Sea Scallops and the Miso Glazed Salmon, the Roasted Free Range Chicken Breast and the Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop with proportionate complimentary sides. Whichever items you select during your participation in dining at Cafe La Boheme, you’re guaranteed to do no wrong. A symphony of polyphonic flavors will dance in your mouth while mingling with essences of Asian influences cleverly and ingenuitively engineered by Chef Banta herself.

Ahi Tuna Tataki

Above, the Tuna Tataki embraces the traditional essence of standard una Tartare with a burst of sophistication and dramatic display. Below, Cafe La Boheme’s Braised Short Rib Papardelle.

Braised Short Rib Papardelle

Herb Marinated Hanger Steak

The Herb Marinated Hanger Steak with greenbeans, garlic mashed potaties and balsamic steak sauce (above), and the Wild Mushroom Risotto with lemon confit, fresh herbs and Pecorino Romano.

Wild Mushroom Risotto

Miso-Glazed Salmon

The Miso-Glazed Salmon with baby bok choi, Shiitaki basmati rice and a sesame spinach sauce (above), and the Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop with roasted Brussels sprouts, lardoons, a polenta cake and apple cider jus.

Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop

Below, Cafe La Boheme’s Squash Ravioli with fresh sage and pumpkin seeds…

Squash Ravioli With Pumpkin Seeds & Sage Butter

Due to the change in season and availability of certain fresh ingredients, Chef Banta has recently replaced her very popular Japanese Pumpkin Ravioli in Brown Butter Sage Sauce with a Squash Ravioli in a lighter, less sugary flavored sage butter sauce. (Oh, how we miss your Japanese Pumpkin Ravioli, Chef Banta! Hopefully next fall, we’ll see it on the menu again, but we really enjoyed your new version for the warmer months as well)!

Did we mention that on Monday evenings, the corkage charge is only five dollars? We didn’t? Shame on us! Diners are welcome to bring in a bottle of their own wine to enjoy over dinner every Monday night. It’s a courtesy well-accepted and appreciated by both the establishment’s first-time customers as well as their seasoned returning enthusiasts.

In terms of satisfying your sweet tooth, there are numerous sugary rewards to seduce you into sampling. There’s Darcy’s Warm Valrhona Chocolate Cake, Butterscotch Pudding, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee, a selection of sorbets and ice Cream, and the Banana Bread Pudding. As you know, we’re not big dessert consumers, but on rare occasion, we have been known to indulge in one specific creation on the Cafe La Boheme dessert menu…the Banana Bread Pudding…

Banana Bread Pudding

Or the coconut and strawberry sorbet bursting with sweetness and flavor…

Coconut & Strawberry Sorbet

After dinner, we took the rest of our wine outside on the patio to enjoy the remainder of the evening and the close of the lightened sky above. Also available for dining when specified in your reservation, the intimate outdoor patio is graced with intrigue and charm. As the legato tempo of our dinner service completed outside, we were somewhat regretful to be at the conclusion of our incredible meal at this beloved institution.

A fire burned calmly in the outdoor fireplace, while the sweet bouquet of nearby blooming jasmine ocasionally drifted past our table. The combination of that fragrance and the delicious nose of the Pinot Noir we were finalizing was a savory contrast. Antiqued stained-glass hanging lanterns and wall sconces quietly ornament the space, while roses proudly pronounce them-selves against an ivy-curtained surround. As the heavens grow darker, the mood is enhanced by the firelight, candles on the tables, and the peaceful quaint out-of-doors environment. It was just what we needed after having finished our magnificent dinner from Chef Banta…the perfect coda to our evening. Just sitting and talking and reminiscing about great times in our past and more incredible times coming soon in our future. What could possibly be better than a fine glass of wine on that patio after indulging in delectable cuisine with the love of your life. Not much.

Cafe La Boheme also prides itself on its Happy Hour. Mentioned as the “Hippest Happy Hour Around”, and presented daily from 5PM to 7:30PM, you can enjoy all “Fun Bites” and sandwiches at half off the regular price! You can choose from Fun Bites ranging in price from $7 to $15 such as Crispy Fried Calamari, Vegetable Spring Rolls, Spicy Buffalo Wings, Bacon Wrapped Dates, the Boheme Burger Sliders, Filet Mignon Tacos, the Steamed Mussels, Chicken Potstickers, Barbeque Chicken Quesadilla, Japanese Fried Chicken, Shoestring Fries, Four Cheese Mac & Cheese, and La Boheme’s Cheese Board. But then there are also three great sandwhiches on board the Happy Hour menu also: the Boheme Burger (aged cheddar, applewood smoked bacon, caramelized onions, leaf lettuce, and a horseradish mayo), the Seared Ahi Sandwhich (grilled onion, red pepper Aioli, and a Kalamata olive spread), and the Grilled Veggie Sandwhich (eggplant, zucchini, red onion, roasted pepper, feta cheese and pesto).

Ready for some pleasurable sipping on the La Boheme red velvet sofa or one of numerous cozy bistro tables in the lounge? Try quenching your thirst with one of these indulgent libations: Select Draft Beers, House Wines and Well Drinks ($5 each), Martinis and Margaritas ($7), or the La Boheme Cocktail of the Day ($8). Ask your server or bartender what the daily brew behind the bar is and you’ll be happy you inquired! If you have the pleasure of dining on the upstairs balcony, you will notice that servers use the hand-cranked dumbwaiter (left) to send your drink orders up from the main bar. They pick them up once they return on the second level and deliver them promptly to your table. An intriguing and fun conversation piece!

On our visit to Cafe La Boheme’s Happy Hour, we tried their Cocktail of the Day, which was a Soju Cosmo. Made with Soju, a distilled beverage native to Korea, it’s taste is comparable to vodka, though usually sweeter due to its manufacturing process. Delicious and satisfying, this cocktail was just what the doctor ordered! My husband also had a Rum and Coke while I decide to have a traditional Greyhound with lime. (I usually don’t drink those unless we’re enjoying oysters on the half shell, but I figured I’d try one anyway)! It was refreshing, perfectly crisp and just as I would have expected it to be…

Above, we enjoyed an Apple Martini, Rum and Coke, Soju Cosmo and a refreshing Greyhound during Happy Hour.

We also relished in the Filet Mignon Tacos, the Bacon Wrapped Dates and shared one of the Boheme Burgers. You’ll see the sumptuous proof is in the pictures below:

Bacon Wrapped Dates

Filet Mignon Tacos

Boheme Burger

While most people who visit the lounge in Cafe La Boheme don’t notice them, there in fact ARE two televisions! Mounted on the wall directly above the main bar are two large in-mirror plasma screens. They’re easy to miss, simply because you just don’t look up in this garnet-colored fantasy with so much else to catch your eye. But they’re there. Existing quietly amongst the comings and goings of diners and Happy Hour enthusiasts alike.

Cafe La Boheme is indeed an icon of the community. Known as such, and certainly proving their place in the fine dining society, it more than stands out from the crowd. It emcompasses the essence of visual enlightenment, culinary excellence and posesses an allure unlike anything else.

DECOR / ESTABLISHMENT: Brilliant ruby hues, deep blacks and muted silvers exude charm and elegance in this upscale-casual dining venue. Something to catch your eye everywhere you look. Romantic ambiance in an intimate, unique and spacious setting.

FOOD / DRINK: Delicious cuisine created by Chef Banta will have you returning soon after your first visit. Numerous fresh selections on the main dinner menu, as well as refreshing cocktails and appetizers in the lounge during Happy Hour.

LOCATION: Cafe La Boheme is located at 8400 Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, CA 90069.

SERVICE / STAFF: We have had exceptional service by both Kevin, Sterling and Hector at Cafe La Boheme. Professional, friendly, knowledgeable and constant in their desire to please their customers, you can’t go wrong being seated in their areas of the restaurant. We assure you that you will be well taken care of by one of these finely-skilled gentlemen. Casey, our server during Happy Hour with Brett behind the bar were also very cordial and helpful with recommendations.

PRICE / VALUE: No worries at Cafe La Boheme. Whether at Happy Hour or dining in the restaurant, you will receive excellent cuisine for an excellent price.

CORKAGE FEE: $5 corkage charge per bottle Monday nights with dinner, then other nights at dinner, $20 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (323) 848-2360, Website: cafelaboheme.us

PARKING: There is a conveniently-located valet parking site beside the restaurant, as well as metered street parking in front of the establishment.

TOTAL BILL: Most dinners at Cafe la Boheme, including a $5 corked bottle of wine on a Monday nights, never exceeded $50 (including tax), including a shared salad or appetizer and two main entrees. Our Happy Hour bill for an Apple Martini, Rum and Coke, Greyhound, Suju Cosmo, Bacon Wrapped Dates, Filet Mignon Tacos and one Boheme Burger (which is big enough to share) totalled $47.36 (including tax)!

*Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

ROY’S HAWAIIAN FUSION RESTAURANT… “Hawaiian Fusion at Aloha Hour!”

Posted on May 23, 2012 by savo0429

ROY’S ALOHA HOUR MENU

What’s your idea of the perfect Savor Hour? An upscale, yet relaxed atmosphere where the staff remembers your name after just one visit? How about a cozy upscale and intimate environment where distinctive cocktails and lucious appetizers are just $5 each? Want to top that off with a little Hawaiian fusion and throw in a lot of value for the entire experience? Well, we have just the place for you…Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Restaurant in Woodland Hills. After two additional trips to this surprising and all-around incredible establishment just to make sure we both agreed, Roy’s has made it onto the Savor Hour List with ease!

HAVE A SEAT AT ROY’S BAR

Walking past the wrought iron flame torches that guard the Hawaiian foliage in front of the restaurant, and entering the front door to Roy’s, you are instantly welcomed by smiling hostesses and a domain that beckons you to enter its warm-hued multi-roomed expanse. A cleverly-designed dividing wall separates the bar and lounge from the main dining area that creates an effortless flow. There are various seating options at high-top bar tables near a wall of windows, booth-like seating against the lounge wall, center-of-the-room high-top tables for two, and, of course, several seats at the bar where you can watch Roy’s mixologist dazzle you with his performance of drink-mixing capabilities. Ah, the sound of a martini being shaken…

INSIDER’S TIP: Try to snag one of the booth tables. They’re more comfortable, are larger than the other high-top tables for two and you can see everything going on in the lounge area from them!

ROY’S ORIGINAL HAWAIIAN MARTINI

Speaking of incredible libations, Roy’s mixes up some pretty interesting concoctions during their “Aloha Hour” in the lounge. Every night from 4:30 – 6:30PM, for only $5, you can enjoy any of their appetizers or cocktails. JUST FIVE DOLLARS EACH! Really! Starting with their tantalizing drink menu, Roy’s Original Hawaiian Martini was my first choice. Maui pineapples are immersed in SKYY Vodka, Stoli Vanil Vodka and Malibu Coconut Rum, then shaken and garnished with a fresh pineapple wedge on the rim of your martini glass. This one will show off its potency, because it’s not a light contender in the cocktail line-up at this restaurant. Nor are the other options such as the Roy’s Island Mai Tai, which is not only colorful, but refreshing and fruity. This Castillo White Rum and Cruzan Black Strap Rum mixture is sure to give you island fever!

ROY’S ISLAND MAI TAI

The Island Mai Tai was my husband’s first cocktail selection. We sipped from one another’s to taste the difference, and we found that both had their very own unique flavors and individual traits. Both scored high in our book on flavor, visual charm and were both packed with a punch. In fact, all the cocktails we tried at Roy’s are heavy on the liquor, so be prepared to be pampered for just $5 each!

THE 1988 MARTINI

The 1988 Martini was named for the opening year of the original Roy’s in Honolulu, Hawaii. This pink liquid experience is made with ABSOLUT Ruby Red Vodka, SOHO Lychee Liqueur, and Patron Cirtonge Liqueur, then topped off with a speared lychee nut. Such an intricately-designed martini for such a fantastic price! With the $5 price tag on this pale pink flavorsome libation, you won’t miss with this selection. Powerful, strong and able to stand on its own against the other unique and individualistic brews the bar at Roy’s concocts, this lightly fruity beverage is sure to score high marks on your “favorite martini of the evening” roster. Try one, and you’ll know why the restaurant uses it as their preferred start-up-date cocktail!

VERY BERRY LEMON DROP MARTINI

Another favorite I had was their Very Berry Lemondrop Martini. A classic Lemondrop Martini made “berry” special with muddled berries, a sugar rim then garnished with fresh speared raspberries and blackberries. Incredible! And fun to sip also.In addition, there are three “Skinny” cocktails on the menu that come in under 150 calories each. The Skinny Cosmo is made with SKYY Infusions Blood Orange Vodka, VeeV Acai Spirit, cranberry juice and fresh lime. The Pina “Fresca” is blended with Malibu Coconut Rum and ABSOLUT Mango Vodka with Orange, Pineapple and Coconut. The Ginger Pear Martini is mixed with Square One Organic Vodka and Kumosabe’ Double Barrel Nigori with Ginger Agave and Fresh Pear. All under 150 calories!

MANGO MOJITO AND MAI TAI

Three “island-inspired” Mojitos are included on Roy’s Aloha Hour list including the Mango Mojito prepared with mango puree, Bacardi Limon Rum and freshly-muddled mint. Another is the Pineapple Ginger Mojito, which brings flavors of fresh ginger and pineapple together with 10 Cane Rum and fresh mint. Finally, the Pomegranate Patron Mojito created with pomegranate puree, Patron silver Tequila and mint wraps up this great selection. We both love a great Mojito, and Roy’s really delivers with theirs.

There are several margaritas, wines, beer selections and other incredible libations as well as the above-mentioned choices, but this blog would be extremely long if I continue covering all of the great drinks at Roy’s. Try any or all of our selections, and we promise that you’ll be wanting to do the Limbo in no time!

Roy’s appetizer menu offers quality and variety for $5 each, as well. You can choose the Smoked Mahi Mahi Tacos with crispy Taro and a jalapeno puree garnighed with freshly-sliced jalapeno peppers. This one is a fresh burst of flavors and a scrumptious choice, but it also has a spicy kick, so have some ice water or a cold beverage handy after your first bite!

SMOKED MAHI MAHI TACOS

The Wagyu Beef Sliders were a hit with my husband. Served with caramalized onions, Chipotle Aioli and Garlic Sweet Potato Fries, this appetizer supplies two of the sliders that surround a pile of sweet potato fries ready to be devoured. Nicely-prepared beef, sweetness from the caramelized onions and soft mini buns complete the presentation of this savory snack.

CLOSE-UP OF ONE OF THE WAGYU BEEF SLIDERS

The Big Island Ebi Roll consists of shrimp tempura, coconut, cream cheese, avocado, Habanero Aioli and Nitsume. This is one of my personal favorites! Creamy, colorful and delectable attributes. The perfect roll for the perfect Aloha Hour!

BIG ISLAND EBI ROLL

The Beef Short Rib Tacos were crunchy on the outside and juicy and tender inside. The Korean essence of this dish blended with the Kim Chee vegetables come together nicely when topped with the Ko Chu Jang sauce.

BEEF SHORT RIB TACOS

The Crunchy Golden Lobster Potstickers are a crispy delight that arrive resting in a puddle of Roy’s incredible miso butter sauce. An accompanyment of spicy Togarashi is applied to the dish before delivered to your table. If you’re a butter sauce fanatic, you have to try this one! It was so delicious, we got a little crazy and just started dipping everything in it.

CRUNCHY GOLDEN LOBSTER POTSTICKERS

Our experience at Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Restaurant was exceptional. Jessica was our server and was attentive, professional, kind and genuinely pleasant. We asked for her suggestions and her recommendations were superb. We look forward to our next jaunt to Woodland Hills so we can stop in for Aloha Hour. We were quite impressed and very satisfied with the overall revelations we discovered, have been back twice since our first visit, and will certainly share our delight with others!

DECOR / ESTABLISHMENT: The decor at Roy’s is predominantly Hawaiian. Huge wrought-iron tiki torches stand crossed in front of the restaurant as they welcome patrons in just beyond their guard. Beautiful palms and colorful flowers also greet you as you approach the main entry. Inside, a modern upscale motif addresses you as smiling hostesses wait to assist you.

FOOD / DRINK: Outstanding Hawaiian Fusion dishes, revitalizing cocktails that are not light on the alcohol, and all-around incredible atmosphere in the lounge.

LOCATION: Roy’s is located at 6363 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91367 right next door to Fleming’s.

SERVICE / STAFF: Everyone working at Roy’s was noteworthy. Skilled servers, talented bartenders and observant hostesses aide in the seamless quality of this establishment. Our server in the lounge was Jessica. We respected her attentiveness and friendly demeanor, and look forward to seeing her on our next trip to the eatery.

PRICE / VALUE: For just $5 each for every drink and every appetizer, Aloha Hour at Roy’s lands on the Savor Hour list as one of the best cost-conscious connoisseur places to dine for $50 or under (including tax)!

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle. Not awful, considering the array of unique and inventive cocktails being served and the extensive wine list in the restaurant (see menu via the link below)!

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (818) 888-4801, Website: http://www.roysrestaurant.com

PARKING: Get there early! Trust us on this one. We arrived once at 5:30PM on a weekday, and couldn’t get a seat in the lounge for more than a half hour! They’re packed … literally…from around 4:45 PM until after Aloha Hour ends! Unfortunately, we left that evening disappointed, but not unaware that Roy’s has one of the best Happy Hours in the area. Now we make sure we get there no later than 4:15PM to ensure grabbing a comfy spot before the crowds come in. Additionally, we would recommend arriving early to beat the “orange cone placement” by the valet company outside the front of the restaurant. If you can make it into the front parking lot before the valet puts the orange cones out, you won’t have to park behind the restaurant in the parking lot. If you do, that’s alright too because Roy’s employees will validate your parking ticket before you leave. If you would like to have the valet take your car, the charge is $5.

TOTAL BILL: $48.94 for one Mai Tai, one Hawaiian Martini, one 1988 Martini, two Mango Mojitos, one order of the Wagyu Beef Sliders, an order of the Short Rib Tacos, a Big Island Ebi Roll, and the Mahi Mahi Tacos.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

PINK TACO @ CENTURY CITY WESTFIELD MALL… “Happy Hour Heaven!”

Posted on May 15, 2012 by savo0429

Another Century City favorite on the Savor Hour list is Pink Taco. Named after a popular dish on the menu, (the Pink Taco…Yucatan-style “panuchos” with achiote grilled chicken, black beans, habanero, pickled onions, avocado and cotija cheese), this handsomely-decorated, vivacious Mexican canteen with a massive bar offers seating outside overlooking Santa Monica Boulevard on a beautifully-designed “see-and be-seen” patio, or indoors in the lounge at the bar or one of numerous cozy booths or tables. At Happy Hour, be prepared for a nightclub feel with heart-pumping music and pink-tinted colored lights above many of the indoor booths. This place is fun, exciting and if the atmosphere doesn’t get your heart beating a little faster than when you came in, the food and cocktails certainly will.

You can’t miss this restaurant. Pink Taco is perched high above street level overlooking Santa Monica Boulevard. Pink walls, pink neon signage, pink lighting, even pink cocktails are available! But don’t let the color fool you. Inside, the stylish persona of this establishment only continues and is carried throughout from beginning to end from the way the hostesses greet you, to the way you’re treated by the servers, to the amazing Mexican dishes and cool refreshing beverages available. A fantastic Mexican restaurant and bar with a rock-n-roll edge, Pink Taco will suit your every craving from the perfect margarita to the best originally-created Mexican delights you’ve ever had.

Pink Taco’s Happy Hour offers the best of their favorites, both quenching and appetizing. Noted as one of L.A.’s best Happy Hours, the menu will show you why that came to be. In the bar and patio Monday through Sunday from 3-7PM, you can indulge in half-priced drinks and $6 appetizers. That’s FOUR HOURS of happiness at half price! Adult beverages include all well drinks, all wines by the glass, all imported and domestic beers, Sangria Blanca, Sangria Rosa, Pink Taco’s Signature House Margarita, the Pink Taco Margarita, Tequila Maria, Michelada, Original Mojitos, Raspberry Mojitos, and the Peach, Mango and Strawberry Margaritas.

But we haven’t touched on any appetizers yet, have we? Well, you’ll enjoy this lineup because it’s filled with delicious temptations to suit any mood. For just six dollars, you can choose Nachos with Cheese, Chicken or Steak, the Homemade Guacamole, the Signature Queso Dip, Tamarino Glazed Chicken Skewers, Quesadillas with Cheese, Chicken or Steak, the Sweet Corn Tamales, Short Rib Taquitos, Chicken Flautas or Tortilla Soup.

We have experienced a few items from Pink Taco’s Happy Hour and regular menus. The Signature House Margarita, made with Sauza Blanco Tequilla, fresh-pressed lime, orange Curacao and agave nectar is just $5 at Happy Hour and is sure to satisfy your curiosity and quench your thirst. My husband enjoyed that as well as the Mango Margarita. I tried their Signature Cocktail, the Pink Taco Margarita…

Has there ever been a time when you’ve had a cocktail that you just loved so much you didn’t want to try anything else on the menu? Well, that’s what happened to me after enjoying one of these flavorsome pink libations! What’s funny is that there are over thirty cocktails on Pink Taco’s beverage menu, and I couldn’t tear myself away from this delicious brew! In fact, this cocktail is so popular, Pink Taco published the recipe on their blog! (I’ll have to make some time between researching restaurants, writing and posting our blogs to make this one myself)! This one is certainly a winner in my book. Here’s the recipe for those of you who might be interested in trying your hand at this pink perfection…

PINK TACO MARGARITA RECIPE

2 oz Tequila Blanco

3/4 oz Cointreau

3/4 oz Gran Mariner

1 oz Agave Nectar

2 oz Sweet and Sour Mix

2 Lime Wedges (Squeezed)

1/2 oz Hibiscus Tea or Syrup (there’s that Hibiscus syrup again!)

Servers don’t hesitate to pile on fresh hearty chips with a spicy salsa to accompany the crunchy delights that are presented on wax paper inside of a galvanized metal pail at your table. Be careful with these tasty crisps, because it’s not hard to fill up on these before ordering your appetizers or something off the main menu to feast on!

Pink Taco’s Chips and Salsa

Pink Taco Margarita, Mango Margarita and a Shot of Tequila with Lime and Salt

The Sweet Corn Tamale off the Happy Hour food menu is colorful and filling with its crunchy grilled corn kernels, fresh ground masa, roasted poblano chiles, queso fresco, pico de gallo and cooling drizzle of sour cream on top enhances your awareness of fine Mexican cuisine.

Sweet Corn Tamale

The Steak Quesadilla was another favorite of ours of the Happy Hour food selections. Encased in a delicate tortilla, this three-cheese blend concoction of juicy chunks of lean steak accompanied by heaping mounds of chilled sour cream, creamy guacamole and salsa.

Steak Quesadilla

An Inside Look at the Tender Plentiful Steak Inside the Steak Quesadillas

We try, as best we can, to order items that stick to the Happy Hour menu, or if the venue we’re reviewing doesn’t have a Happy Hour, we at least stay with items that don’t exceede our “under-fifty-dollars-or-less-including-tax” rule. So we’re going to notate two separate visits to Pink Taco in our “TOTAL BILL” section at the bottom of this blog showing two options you can chose (if you’d like to follow our menu selections). On one visit, we ordered drinks and shared an item off the main menu, while on the other visit, we ordered cocktails and Happy Hour food items. Not a huge deal, we just wanted to show both because the food is really scrumptious!

Slow-Roasted Beef Brisket Enchiladas

You MUST try the Slow Roasted Brisket Enchiladas (above and below)! They come two to an order and are more than enough to feed two people. I had to have my husband finish the rest of the one I was eating because I just didn’t have any more room! Splitting this dish as an appetizer in the bar was a great idea. The visual presentation was beautiful, as well as the tender melt-in-your-mouth slow-roasted pulled beef brisket hidden inside the tender tasty casings. The Mexican cheeses give the perfectly-cooked-to-perfection beef a nice flavor and hold everything together. The Salsa Colorado enhances it with a nice finish. The dish is served with sides of Mexican red rice and refried beans on a separate plate that is so huge, you’ll be wishing there was an additional body in your party to help you polish everything off! The rice is tender and full of flavor, while the refried beans are a delightful and filling extension.

Mexican Rice and Refried Beans

Below, you can see the inside of the Slow Roasted Brisket Enchilada. So savory, so delicious, and so appetizing, this will be a certain re-order the next time we visit!

Slow-Roasted Beef Brisket Enchilada

Oh, and we almost forgot! Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays at Pink Taco! During happy hour from 3-7PM, if you buy a pitcher of their fantastic select Margaritas, you’ll get a pitcher FREE! (That just might require you to bring along a few of your friends to polish both pitchers off successfully)!

DECOR / ESTABLISHMENT: The trendy and hip vibe with a rock ‘n’ roll edge feel brings life and excitement to this venue. Pinks, bold accent colors and an eclectic collection of decor exist in abundance making the entire establishment a great conversation piece. Lots of space, a great outdoor patio and a terrific feel.

FOOD / DRINK: Delectable Mexican cuisine, tasty chilled cocktails and an array of fun-filled selections on the menu.

LOCATION: 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90067 (at the Westfield Century City Mall).

HOURS: Pink Taco is available to serve you Sunday through Thursday from 11:30AM – 11PM, then on Friday & Saturdays from 11:30AM – Midnight. Happy Hour is available daily from 3PM – 7PM, then again every evening from 10PM to closing.

SERVICE / STAFF: There are always smiling hostesses to greet us upon arrival, friendly and knowledgeable bartenders mixing cocktails and kind servers ready to take your order as soon as you take a seat. Each time we’ve visited Pink Taco, we’ve been fortunate enough to have Andrian serve us. Always a smile on her face and a great attitude, we’re always appreciative of her immaculate customer service and attentiveness!

PRICE / VALUE: We feel for the price of the food and coktails charged that we are getting a fair value. The food is always prepared fresh, and the cocktails are always hand-made and served up chilled to perfection.

CORKAGE FEE: $20 per bottle

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 789-1000, Website: www.pinktaco.com

PARKING: Pink Taco will be more than happy to validate your parking ticket. We recommend parking in the “Blue” section of the parking garage beneath the mall and taking the escalator in that section up two floors. When you get off the escalator, turn to your left and take the outdoor escalator up one more level, and you will be delivered right in front of Pink Taco (it’s next door to The Container Store). With three hours validation available, you’ll have ample time to enjoy yourself at Happy Hour or any hour!

TOTAL BILL: $44.15 (including tax) for a Steak Quesadilla, a Sweet Corn Tamale, three Pink Taco Margaritas, one frozen Mi Casa Strawberry margarita and one shot of Tequila (that’s one visit). On another visit, our total bill was $43.50 (including tax) for a main menu order of the Slow Roasted brisket Enchilladas, two Pink Taco Margaritas, a Mi Casa Mango Margarita on the rocks and one shot of Tequila. You won’t hear us complaining!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

KRAVINGS WORLD FUSION STEAKHOUSE & LOUNGE… “Satisfy YOUR Kraving!”

Posted on May 13, 2012 by savo0429

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Got a Kraving? So did we when we headed to Kravings in Tarzana, CA this past week. We don’t get out to Tarzana much, but we received some great reports from our sources about this place, so we thought we’d get to work reviewing this for all our readers! Kravings is a world fusion steakhouse combining cuisines from Brazil, the Middle East, Japan and India. This restaurant is based on the Brazilian Rodizio serving style. In a nutshell, you pay one price and you keep getting served until you say you’re done! Sounds great to us! But we’re here to report on the Happy Hour at Kravngs, so let’s get started! (We wouldn’t want to leave you in suspense)!

The lounge at Kravings is contemporary and romantic. Red and black are the predominant colors in sight as you enter this chic room. Silver, beaded narrow chandeliers hang from the ceiling providing an allure to this modern gathering spot. Cozy booths line both walls, while beautifully-decorated tables exist in the center on your approach to the bar. Accents in red…pillows, napkins, lighting and candle holders, catch your eye and invite you in.

On one side of the lounge, red blinds and booths await your dining company as delicate chain-link curtains create a mystery as to what could lie beyond. Romance and intrigue? An informal business meeting? A reunion of long-lost lovers meeting for a drink after a lifetime apart? Ah, the possibilities are endless. The lounge possesses an intimate and upscale feel and offers modern touches of art on the walls. You’ll see avant-garde depictions of Marilyn Monroe and large-screen plasma televisions against a brick wall beside the bar while you feast your eyes (and appetite) on a Happy Hour menu sure to exhilarate your every desire and incite your every taste bud.

Speaking of desires, you’ll be desiring the appetizers and cocktails at Kravings when you see what’s being offered! Served at the bar seven days a week from 4-7PM, and also during the Reverse Happy Hour Wednesday through Saturday from 10-11PM, you can refresh yourself with one of several adult concoctions prepared specially by knowledgeable and talented bartenders.

First of all, all Smirnoff Highball Drinks are only $5. For just $6 each, you can enjoy the Caipirinha (in photo above),the national drink of Brazil that’s mixed with Leblon Cachaca (Premium Brazilian Rum), the Pomegranate Martini made with Absolut Berri Acai (see picture further down), the Absolut Bellini created using Absolut Apeach and Champagne or the Smirnoff Straight Martini. Coming in for a dollar more, the Lemon Drop Martini with Grey Goose le Citron and the White Cosmo (in above photo) shaken with Absolut Citron and St. Germain liqueur are available for $7 apiece. Rounding out the Happy Hour cocktails is the Belvedere Dry Martini for a mere $8. Hand-stuffed with blue cheese olives, this brew is sure to win your attention and approval.

Kravings also suggests several select wines and Champagnes for 1/2 off the original price, as well as their popular 21-ounce Frosted Mug of Draft beer for only $4. I just love how they serve their martinis…beautifully garnished and in a frosted martini glass! Nice touch!

The Appetizer & Light Entree list spans from $1.35 each for Blue Point Oysters to $15.95 for the Famous Lamb Chops, but it’s the Bar Bites we really want to highlight. All a mere $5 each, there are the Baby Back Ribs served three to a order with a signature pomegranate BBQ sauce, the Oysters Rockefeller served three to an order with a special dynamite sauce, the Eggplant Humus accompanied with fresh pita bread, the sushi grade Seared Ahi Tuna with wasabi yuzu sauce, the Chimichurri French Fries cooked with olive oil, herbs and garlic, the Medjool Dates Wrapped in Smoked Bacon with blue cheese, brie and walnuts inside that arrive four to a plate. YUM!

But hang on a second, because there’s more! Kravings also serves their Flat Bread Pizzas for $5 each also. There are five to choose from. You can try the Steak Flat Bread with purple onion and bell pepper, the Portobella Mushroom Flat Bread with gorgonzola cheese, the the Grilled Pineapple Flat Bread, also with bell pepper and purple onion. Additionally, the Grilled Chicken Flat Bread with BBQ sauce, cheese and purple onion was one of our favorites. Another one we put our seal of approval on was the Pear & Goat Cheese Flat Bread Pizza, which comes with caramalized onions and mozzarella cheese and just oozes with happiness and flavor!

The bacon-wrapped skewered dates (above and below) are out of this world. The bacon possesses a gentle smoky flavor, while the sweetness of the dates is gently counteracted with the blue cheese and brie hidden inside. A slight crunch of walnuts is a nice surprise also. They’re just a fantastic item to enjoy!

The Grilled Chicken Flat Bread with BBQ sauce below really blew me away. Bursting with incredible flavor, sweetness and tang from the BBQ sauce and a nice crunchy base, this was one of my favorite selections. The purple onion also gave a nice zing to the conglomeration of tastes. The grilled chicken was cooked perfectly and tender throughout. If you like chicken and you like BBQ, this is the appetizer for you! I could eat these and the date appetizers all night and never get tired of them!

Another delicious temptation at Kravings during Happy Hour is their Pear & Goat Cheese Flat Bread Pizza (below). SO GOOD! A crispy crust supports layers of thinly-sliced sweet fresh pear. The goat cheese compliments the fruit nicely, while the mozzarella holds everything together and gives the entire dish a lovely finish.

Kravings also offers a Bar Menu that you can take advantage of as well as a full cocktail menu, endless wines, sake and port selections. The “at-the-bar-only” menu consists of such indulgences as Tapas and Cheese Plates, fresh seafood platters, fresh salads and flat bread sandwiches. Take a look at the restaurant link below to see everything available at the bar and lounge. And if you’re ever in the mood for world fusion cooking in an intimate colorful abode, call ahead for a reservation to this unique establishment for dinner sometime.

Overall, we enjoyed our experience at Kravings. Our server, Adam, was courteous, made suggestions to assist us when we asked and was just an all-around great guy. We’ll definitely come back again when in the area. When we do, I’m going to try the Kravings Kiwi Martini. It’s made with Belvedere Vodka, Monin Kiwi and a whole muddled fresh kiwi. (I love kiwis)! It’s $12 and not on Happy Hour, but I’m going to treat myself next time. It just looked that good! I would have tried one, but I would have exceeded out “under $50 (including tax) rule!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The reds and blacks and modernly sleek feel to the lounge at Kravings is seductive, alluring, intimate and romantic. The space is cozy without feeling too cramped or overcrowded.

FOOD / DRINK: Delicious appetizers, flavorful cocktails and at their Happy Hour prices, that combination is a sure winner.

HOURS: Kravings serves Lunch Tuesday through Friday from 11:30AM – 2:30PM, Brunch on Saturday and Sundays from 11:30AM – 3:30PM, Dinner on Mondays and Tuesdays from 5:30PM – 9:30PM, Wednesday through Saturday from 5:30PM – 11:30PM, and on Sundays from 5:30PM – 9PM. The bar is available Mondays and Tuesdays from 4PM – 10PM, Wednesday through Saturday from 4PM – 12AM, and on Sundays from 4PM -9:30PM. Aditionally, Happy Hour lasts daily from 4PM – 7PM. then Wednesdays through Saturdays, there is an additional Reverse Happy Hour again from 10Pm – 11PM.

LOCATION:18663 Ventura Boulevard, Tarzana CA 91356

SERVICE / STAFF: Service was prompt and our server, Adam, was efficient, courteous and happy to offer suggestions on the menu. No grumpy attitudes here!

PRICE / VALUE: Some of the most flavorful Flat Bread Pizzas we’ve had in a while, and huge martinis in frosted glasses. Great attitudes prevail here, and we couldn’t have been happier with the prices for the value of everything.

CORKAGE FEE: $20 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (818) 881-7111, Website: www.KravingsFusion.com.

PARKING: 1-Hour customer parking is available outside the restaurant in the customer parking spaces. there is also a parking structure just behind the restaurant.

TOTAL BILL: For everything we enjoyed, our bill was under $40. Not bad for three cocktails, two flat bread pizzas, and Kravings’ incredible Bacon Wrapped Medjool Dates!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

ROCKSUGAR PAN ASIAN KITCHEN… “An Asian Experience!”

Posted on May 10, 2012 by savo0429

My husband and I have always had a distinct admiration for all things of Oriental origin. Rugs, sculptures, murals, furniture, teapots, statues, fountains, garden stools, hand-made jewelry, music…we just can’t seem to get enough of the tranquil zen that one encounters with that sector of the world. On a recent visitation to the well-known Westfield Century City Mall in Los Angeles, we realized that we had found a new reverence to add to our growing list…RockSugar.

Upon entering beneath a massive ornate entryway, a darkened corridor entices you to find what unfolds ahead. As we made our way through the passageway, the melody of singing birds blended well with the intonations of flowing water and Oriental music. Two benches placed on either side of this breadth forced me to conjure up thoughts of possibly just sitting there with my husband for a few minutes before moving onward. It was so peaceful. Deciding to continue on as we admired the tranquil feel of this zone, we arrived at the out-of-doors patio area, where the visual and auditory enchantment continued.

Above, photos of the indoor bar, another view of the main entrance and the darkened mysterious corridor that leads patrons onto the outdoor patio.

The outdoor patio area is an extension of the indoor bar area, and quite a rewarding spectacle. Eight comfortable lounging sofas are strategically placed around four table-surrounded glass-encased fire pits atop a heated floor. Enormous vases of pottery filled with wooden stalks and wire mesh bubbles salute those who walk through their abode. Towering sculptured wall panels provide intrigue, while welcoming natural tones and live plants in tremendous planters provide beauty and privacy between the seating arrangements. Overhead, imitative sky lanterns seemingly float above you as you dine. We thought this was a lovely finishing touch, and definitely a conversation piece for those who feast beneath them or walk below their alluring position.

As evening quickly approaches, the sky lanterns become more incandescent as the sky continues to darken. If you plan the time of day accordingly, you can witness the magic of the sky lanterns against a color-changing heaven above. Sky lanterns, also called sky candles, have been used in Asian traditions for hundreds of years.

Used all year round in Thailand for special occasions and celebrating, it is also considered good luck to release a sky lantern into the air. In Thai culture, this act is symbolic of problems and worries floating away. These lanterns are also incorporated into Chinese festivals. In Taiwan, they can be seen being released into the night sky during their annual Lantern Festival by the thousands!

RockSugar presents their RockTail Hour every day from 4-6:30PM. During this time, you can be delighted and charmed by the unique array of cocktail and appetizer choices. For just $6 each, you can enjoy any of these RockTails: the Blood Orange Mojito, the Orchard Road Martini, the Sake Dragon, Yuzu Cherry Gimlet, the Tamarind Margarita, and the Bourbon Sling. Well RockTails are just $5 each, as well as select wines by the glass. Beer enthusiasts can also endulge in select brews for only $4.

Colorful Cocktails In the Perfect Environment

Our all-time favorite of the RockTails are the Blood Orange Mojito, the Orchard Road Martini and the Sake Dragon. The Blood Orange Mojito is my husband’s usual potion at Rock Sugar. The flavor is unlike anything else we’ve quite put our finger on before, and made with Bacardi Superior Rum, blood orange and mint. My personal favorite is the Orchard Road Martini. This concoction is created using Vodka, Gin, St. Germain Liqeur, Lemongrass and Hibiscus. Packing enough punch after having only one, I usually endure a second (and sometimes a third) of these sumptuous pink cocktails. The Sake Dragon is our third recommendation on the RockTail front. Vodka, sake, St. Germain Liqeur, Mint, Shiso and lime top this green-colored jewel off leaving you craving another when you’re done! You’ll notice RockSugar’s RockTails are not only not lacking flavor (or liquor), but also that they are extremely enticing to the eye. The Sake Dragon is a beautiful shade of light green, while the Blood Orange Mojito appears in a luminous orange shade. My favorite, the Orchard Road Martini, arrives perfectly pink with a dark layer of Hibiscus Liqeur that tops the beverage off with an intriguing appearance.

Rice Crackers and Cocktails

During RockTail Hour, smiling servers stop by your sofa to take your order, and rice crackers (above) are delivered with a spicy zesty dipping sauce. These crackers are light, airy, and peppered with poppy seeds throughout and are visually appealing as well.

The RockBites Menu will take you to a place far away with their Crispy Chicken Samosas, Potstickers, Indian Stuffed Flatbread, Vegetarian Stuffed Flatbread and Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls for $3 each. Fifty cents more will allow for RockSugar’s tempting Chicken Satay. For $4 a piece, try their Chicken Tikka, the Crispy Imperial Rolls or the Green Mango and Papaya Salad. The Chicken and Mushroom Lettuce Wraps come in at an easy $4.50, while for $5.50 each, the Thai Crispy Chicken Wings and Crispy Sweet-Hot Shrimp only add to the entire archive of delectables.

Some of our favorites there include the Chicken Samosas, the Potstickers, the Indian Stuffed Flatbread, the Vegetable Spring Rolls, the Mushroom Lettuce Wraps and the Thai Basil Cashew Chicken…

Chicken Samosas

Vegetable Spring Rolls & Potstickers

Indian Flat Bread

Thai Basil Cashew Chicken

RockSugar has landed on the Savor Hour list for numerous reasons. Style, decor, Asian essence, enchantment, great food and cocktails and excellent prices anyone could appreciate. Put a little Asian cuisine and RockTails into your evening hours at RockSugar in Century City. You will arrive with satisfied expectations and leave with the same!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Stunning Asian-style decor, flowing fountains, up-kept grounds and colorful eye-catching details everywhere you look.

FOOD / DRINK: Savory appetizers and flavorful cocktails entertain the palate, while arousing essences tantalize the whole being of those that try any of the RockBites or RockTails!

LOCATION: Westfield Mall-Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90067.

HOURS: RockSugar serves Lunch Monday through Sunday from 11:30AM – 5PM, Dinner Sunday through Thursday from 5PM – 10PM, then also on Fridays and Saturdays from 5PM-11PM, and offers their incredible Happy Hour called “Rocktail Hour” daily from 4PM – 6:30PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Service on the patio can be hit-or-miss. It disappoints us to write this, as the food, drinks, and atmosphere are incredible. We’ve never met a server there who wasn’t friendly or kind. However, the wait times can be very long. As many times as we’ve visited and received great prompt service, it really surprises us to find that sometimes, unfortunately, the service can be very inconsistent. Hopefully, your experience will be a “hit” and not a “miss”. If it isn’t be prepared to wait for a while if you’re seated on the patio.

PRICE / VALUE: Great value, great prices, great selection!

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle any day, any time, no restrictions. In other words, Happy Hour applies! (Yay!)

CONTACT INFO: Phone - (310) 552-9988, Website – www.rocksugarpanasiankitchen.com

PARKING: RockSugar will gladly validate your parking ticket. You are allowed up to three hours free in the parking garage if validated at RockSugar in the Westfield mall, so don’t forget! Try to find a parking space in the “Blue” section of the parking garage. It’s the closest to RockSugar. Two floors up, turn to your left when you come off the escalator on the top floor, and you will see RockSugar just past the outdoor escalator between The Counter and Gulfstream restaurants.

TOTAL BILL: $35.91 for two Orchard Road Martinis, two Blood Orange Mojitos, an order of the Chicken Samosas, a plate of the Potstickers and the Indian Stuffed Flatbread. Very fairly-priced considering the atmosphere, ambiance and quality of the food and beverages offered.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

BLVD 16 LOUNGE… “Updated Happy Hour Menu!”

Posted on May 7, 2012 by savo0429

During a recent visit back to BLVD 16 Lounge at the Palomar Hotel in Westwood, we noticed that the Happy Hour menu had been revised. We wanted to inform our readers of this updated list of edibles so you can also be “in the know”. We were happy to see Issac and Reuben again, as they welcomed us back.

BLVD 16 Lounge now offers a “Unite Your Bites” feature on their amended Bar Bites list (right). You can create your own combination of bites with the Mini Tasty Burgers, Fish Tacos and Short Rib Sliders. 1 for $3, 2 for $5, and 4 for $10. What a creative idea! New to the menu are the Carlsbad Oysters and the Chicken Skewers. Not in this group of fine delectables any longer are the Buffalo Chicken Wings and the Mini Chop.

INSIDER’S TIP: We were informed that the former “Mini Chop” Bar Bites item from the last menu is still available if you ask your server or bartender! It’s not printed on the new menu, but they are happy to prepare one for you nevertheless! (You can see photos of most of the Bar Bites in the April 17, 2012 Blog posting on SavorHour.com, as well as in this posting below).

Being a Sunday, (a “free corkage” night in the lounge and restaurant), we shared a bottle of wine together that we brought with us and dove right in to the updated BLVD 16 Bar Bites menu. In our April 17th blog, we experienced the Mini Tasty Burger, the Short Rib Slider, the BLVD 16 Hummus, The Fish Taco, the Herb Fries and the Mini Chop. This time, we had the opportunity to try some new things…and they were incredible! After conversing for a few minutes and each indulging in a glass of vino, we ordered the newly added Carlsbad Oysters for $3 each, the Chicken Skewers plate for $5 and the Daily Flatbread for $7.

Carlsbad Oysters

BBQ Chicken Skewers

The Carlsbad Oysters were exquisite. Served on the half shell, and enhanced with a grapefruit “granite” (French for “ice”), these shellfish were refreshing and a delightful celebration of flavor. They were an amiable precursor to the Chicken Skewers we had next.

The Chicken Skewers come four skewers to an order, and for just $5, you won’t believe the amount of food you get when they’re brought to your table. Produced with a decorative and colorful array of fresh carrots and greens with a container of chilled creamy Bleu Cheese on the side, this dish is sure to please the palate of the spicy-loving patron.

INSIDER’S TIP: The Chicken Skewers were tender and cooked to perfection, but be aware that they are ‘buffaloed” and VERY SPICY! So if you’re an admirer of the spicy side of things, then this appetizer if for you!

I decided to try one of the BLVD 16 “Rush Hour” (4-7PM and again from 10PM – Midnight) Monday through Sundays) well drinks while we waited for our third appetizer for the night. I ordered a Cape Cod and Reubin returned with it in no time. It was crisp, chillingly exhilarating and thoroughly gratifying. Serving up $3 wines, $4 beers and $5 wines, the Rush Hour menu has also been updated to suit patrons now TWICE throughout the evening from 4PM – 7PM, then again from 10 PM -Midnight every day! BLVD 16′s ‘Rush Hour’ is now twice as fun!

BLVD 16 Cape Cod

The Daily Flatbread is a Flatbread delight that the BLVD 16 Chef specially prepares each day. Our daily preparation was the Chorizo Flatbread. Crisped to perfection in the BLVD 16 kitchen, and topped with Chorizo, crumbly cheese, halved cherry tomatoes and red onion. Not only was this item pleasing to the visual and olfactory senses, but it was a real treat for the palate as well. Just a touch of spiciness. and a heaping amount of delectability!

Daily Flat Bread Presentation – Chorizo

The tomatoes burst with juicy flavor once devoured. The oven-crisped foundation an excellent source of crunch beneath. All ingredients played a melodious role in the end result.

Upon leaving BLVD 16 this time, as we were on our way out of the hotel, I snapped a few photos of the hotel lobby and some other quite unique sights that I feel are worth mentioning. Though SavorHour is a blog about food and wine (and cocktails, too), and not traveling or lodging at this point, I felt it necessary to share some aspects of the Palomar Hotel with our readers being that BLVD 16 is inside such an establishment. (Who knows where this may lead in the future)! As I mentioned in our BLVD 16 April 15th post, the Palomar Hotel is known for it’s friendly acceptance and catering to animals. This, of course, if something my husband and I truly support, as we are animal lovers ourselves. Below are photos of the “Welcome” sign for pets checking into the hotel, (I know…how great is that), and additionally, some pictures of the hotel lobby for your visual enjoyment…

Above, the living room area in front of a roaring fireplace in the hotel lobby, the volorful hallway behind the BLVD 16 Lounge, an alternate view of the living room area from another angle in the lobby, the Hotel palomar welcome water bowls for furry guests with their names written on a bone-shaped chalkboard and an old-fashioned bicycle that guests are allowed to take advantage of while at the hotel that’s parked in the lobby! Below, various views of the arched sofa against the red mirrored wall, another view of the fireplace, the stunning intricately-designed wood floors and the hotel’s main entrance.

And don’t forget to stop in on Thursdays from 5PM to 6:30 PM to hear the classic acoustic sounds of Jake & Drew in the lobby. Jake Stone and Drew Nichols came together with a common goal. To play the music they love and to enhance the lives of those who listen to their clear acoustic style. Both talented vocalists and guitarists, Jake and Drew perform every Thursday at the Hotel Palomar on Wilshire Boulevard from 5PM to 6:30 PM. If you haven’t heard of them, remember their name. Because we guarantee that you will be hearing of them soon. Since we were introduced to these two entertainers, we’ve made a point to not miss a single performance. Hearing them for the first time, we were amazed. We expected a lot due to what others had told us about them, but we had no idea what we were in for until we heard them for ourselves.

Hailing from Missouri, Jake Stone’s strong lead vocals combine well with Oklahoma-born Drew Nichols’ mastery as Lead Guitarist. Ranging from popular favorites from the 60s to present day popular hits, theirs is a twenty-year combined acoustic talent that forces one to think, urges one to reflect and encourages one to be inspired. Together, their life-enriching, top-notch sound and touching method of delivering happiness to all who listen to their music will leave you spellbound. Performing for scheduled weddings, birthday celebrations and special ocassion events, you can also hear Jake & Drew perform regularly every Thursday at the Hotel Palomar at 10740 Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA in the Westwood neighborhood. You can contact Jake & Drew directly at jakeanddrewmusic.com.

DECOR / ESTABLISHMENT: I think the above pictures speak for themselves, but overall, the decor and the property are colorful, eye-catching, modern and well-maintained.

FOOD / DRINK: Refreshing cocktails and scrumptious Bar Bites made with fresh and exciting ingredients are just one of the many reasons we keep coming back!

LOCATION: 10740 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90024.

HOURS: BLVD 16′s ‘Rush Hour’ is now offered TWICE a night! From 4PM – 7PM, then again from 10:30PM – Midnight and serving up $3 wines, $4 beers and $5 cocktails. The ‘Bar Bites’ menu is available from 4PM – 10:30 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: As always, the staff impresses. Especially Issac, the BLVD 16 Manager and Reuben, the bartender in the lounge. They both exude professionalism, kindness, and continuously welcome us back.

PRICE / VALUE: You don’t just get what you pay for at BLVD 16…you get more! Terrific service, inventive dishes in BLVD 16 and constant rapport between staff and customer that does not go unnoticed.

CORKAGE FEE: No corkage fee Sundays through Wednesdays in the lounge or restaurant (up to 2 bottles), then $20 per bottle Thursday through Saturday.

CONTACT INFO: Phone – (310) 474-7765, Website – www.blvd16.com

PARKING: Metered street parking is available, as well as complimentary Valet in the front of the Palomar Hotel entrance.

TOTAL BILL: $28.51 (Including tax) for four Carlsbad Oysters, an order of the Chicken Skewers, A Daily Flatbread creation, a Cape Cod (on “Rush Hour”), and free corkage for the bottle of wine we brought in to enjoy.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

BAR NOIR @ MAISON 140 & OLIVERIO LOUNGE @ THE AVALON HOTEL… “Beverly Hills Sisters!”

Posted on May 5, 2012 by savo0429

We don’t usually blog about two establishments in the same post, but this was a special exception. My husband and I are big fans of the Viceroy Hotel Group. Among their line of fine hotels are two unique, very individually-styled properties.

Bar Noir, (housed inside the lobby of the cozy, intimate, Parisian-styled Bed-and-Breakfast Maison 140), and Oliverio, (located on the first floor of the retro-chic Avalon Hotel). Both located in Beverly Hills, and sister properties not far from one another, these distinct gems present a wealth of intriguing offerings.

Bar Noir seductively draws you into it’s romantic, dark Parisian-styled lounge space contributing to an intimate, private feel with a classic connotation. This modest-sized bar is petite in comparison to most, but exudes abundant character and substantial charm.

Oliverio emanates that poolside patio upscale-retro appeal that was eminent in the 50s and 60s. With their private pool-side cabanas, one can indulge in the airy, open outdoors without having to be inside on an agreeable evening. For cooler temperatures, Oliverio furnishes overhead heaters in the cabanas, while around the outdoor open seating area, stand-up heaters are provided. This property embraces the spirit of both the young and the young at heart with its suave style, it’s commanding attention to details, and its undeniable elegance.

Let’s get down to business! At Bar Noir, there is what’s called their “L’Heur Verte” Daily Absinthe Tasting. For $5 a tasting, between 5PM and 7PM daily for the Absinthe Happy Hour, a masterfully-skilled mixologist will not only prepare a fantastic concoction with the pre-2007 forbidden liquor (you know, the one which was banned in the U.S. in 1912), but will also entertain you with an entire presentation as he prepares your beverage taking advantage of their hundred-year-old absinthe dispenser at the bar! L’Heur Verte means “the green hour”. Absinthe is a green shade due to the herbs contained within it (mostly Green Anise, wormwood and fennel). If you’ve never tried absinthe, it is a highly concentrated anise-flavored extract. As with any concentrated extract, it is intended to be combined with water. The colder the water, the better it is.

We arrived at Bar Noir and took a seat at the intimate bar. Our bartender, Jake, was courteous and happily welcomed us into the property and the lounge. We ordered an absinthe tasting for each of us, and Jake got right to work. First, he presented the the ages old absinthe dispenser (above) in front of us on top of the bar. Antique-looking, distinguished and intriguing, this device is filled with ice and water in the upper glass portion. The ice water was left to thoroughly chill, then two cognac glasses were placed before us. Silver feuille-shaped absinthe spoons were then laid upon each glass and a sugar cube distributed atop each spoon. The sugar mixed into the absinthe counteracts the bitterness of the liquid, thus making it more enjoyable. The word “absinthe” is the French word for “wormwood”, a plant from which medicines and tonics were made long ago. People took to drinking it for pleasure in the 18th and 19th centuries, then continued until eventual banning of the extract occurred. Thujone is the ingredient that was removed from absinthe before it became legal again in the United States, but even without this “essential” ingredient, it is still a lovely aperitif to have before dinner.

This is where things got interesting. A shot of absinthe is poured into the glass over the resting sugar cube, and then lit on fire! (How great is that!) It makes for quite a presentation. The sugar cubes are lit on fire because not only does this enhance the visual experience, but it also caramelizes the sugar, which gives the added sweetness a delightful flavor. While the water is still chilling in the absinthe dispenser to it’s coldest liquid state, the sugar cubes are allowed to melt a bit more just until they are perfectly caramelized via the bartender’s watchful eye. Up until this point, the absinthe is a crystal clear green vibrant hue. Next, the chilled water is released from one of the four absinthe dispeser spigots straight down onto the flaming sugar cube. This not only stops the sugar cube from flaming any further, but it also is what is needed to complete the cocktail. Three parts water to one part absinthe. Anything less, the extract would be too bitter and too concentrated to swallow or enjoy.

Once the chilled water is finished being added to each glass and briskly mixed, the absinthe turns a milky green shade. Very appealing, and definitely a sight well worth the wait. (Certainly unlike anything else I’ve ordered before). The taste of anise when you take the first sip, the subtle hint of fennel in the background, and the cool refreshing chill of the beverage all combine to create quite an exclusive cocktail. Above, the finished product served with complimentary pickle-flavored popcorn. (Yes, we know, we’d never had pickle-flavored popcorn before either, but it was surprisingly delightful)!

The absinthe tasting was indeed outstanding, and the staff couldn’t have been more warm or welcoming. We look forward to returning for our next absinthe tasting soon. (We’ll bring some friends along with us next time to share in the fun)! After we left Bar Noir, we went just down the street to their sister property, the Avalon Hotel, where the Oliverio Lounge sits. We then walked into the main entrance at the indoor portion of the restaurant. After being told that we could take advantage of their Happy Hour anywhere in the indoor or outdoor seating areas. We elected to sit outside inside in one of the poolside cabanas. (Enter “Part 2″ of our Savor Hour for the evening).

Seated inside our private poolside cabana, a waiter, (Joey), immediately appeared to hand us menus and take our drink orders. He departed as swiftly as he had arrived and returned promptly with our beverages. Ice cold and colorful, they made a beautiful contrast against the azure pool just steps away. Oliverio’s Happy Hour is accessible Monday through Friday from 4-7PM and is available at the bar and lounge tables, however, this particular evening, we were asked to sit wherever we liked, so we chose one of the private poolside cabanas, which was quite lovely.

Happy Hour cocktails are only $6 and if you’re in the mood for something other than a Dirty Martini or a Cosmopolitan, their Happy Hour well drinks (also $6) include Smirnoff Vodka, Gordon’s Gin, Jim Beam, Jose Cuervo and Myers’s Platinum. One can conjure up more than a few brew options with this list! There are also Happy Hour wines for $5 and $6 each, and Beers for just $4. (The Apple Martini pictured above tacked on an additional $2, so it ended up being an $8 cocktail).

Oliverio’s Happy Hour edibles are quite surprising in taste, portion size and quality. We were happily surprised by our findings. Oliverio’s nibbles consist of the following: All for $5 each – Seafood Ceviche, Spicy Rock Shrimp, Guacamole and Chips, Truffle Fries, Spaghetti Piquante and Mini Burgers with Fries. Also, for $8 each, you can get their Napoletana Pizzetta or their Calabrese Pizzetta. We chose three of Oliverio’s appetizers: the Mini Burgers with Fries, which is Angus beef cooked to perfection, and hands down has to be one of the BEST burger sliders we’ve had this year. We also enjoyed the Napoletana Pizzetta and the Spicy Rock Shrimp…

These miniature Angus beef shockers are dressed with onion, ketchup and melty cheese accompanies by a pile of fries and ketchup on the side. I know I’m repeating myself, but these HAVE to be some of the best burger sliders we’ve had!

I just HAD to add the above picture of a close-up shot of the Oliverio’s Mini Burgers!

Oliverio’s incredible flat bread (above) is covered in a zesty marinara-like sauce, cut into six slices, then topped with fresh mozzarella and fresh basil leaves and Parmesan cheese! This is not a small bite. In fact, it was so amply proportioned that we wound up having three slices remaining.

Don’t let the name fool you. These tempura-battered beauties are called “spicy”, but in reality, they were perfectly invigorated with flavor. We were hesitant to try these, being that my husband can’t handle much spicy food, but we were assured by Joey that they were a favorite at Oliverio and that the “heat” wasn’t bad at all. He was right, in fact, because we devoured these luscious bites in no time with no problem.

Now, I know we’ve covered a lot here. However, since these two establishments are sister properties, very close in proximity to one another, and since we didn’t have any edibles at Bar Noir, we thought it would be good to combine them together to make a perfect Savor Hour. The best part, is that everything from BOTH places stayed below $50. Success!

DECOR / ESTABLISHMENT: Bar Noir maintains a coveted intimacy which can be greatly appreciated. Their deep reds, blacks and whites offer a distinctively classic, welcoming feel. Oliverio expels delight also, but with a retro-hip vibe just begging to be admired. The poolside patio cabana dining makes Oliverio a terrific spot to catch up with friends, or have a romantic evening our with a significant other.

FOOD / DRINK: Bar Noir astounded us with our very first absinthe tasting. Refreshing, incredibly dramatic presentation, and blended to perfection. Oliverio Lounge served up smashing cocktails that pack a punch and large-portioned Happy Hour bites that would complement any occasion for an evening out.

LOCATION: Bar Noir is located at 140 Lasky Drive, Beverly Hills CA 90212 inside the charming and witty Maison 140. Oliverio Lounge is positioned on the first floor of the Avalon Hotel at 9400 West Olympic Boulevard in Beverly Hills CA 90212, which has a terrific corner locale.

HOURS: Bar Noir is open nightly from 5:30 until 1:30 AM, while Oliverio serves Breakfast daily from 7 AM – 11 AM, Lunch & Dinner daily from 11 AM – 11 PM, and for Happy Hour Monday through Friday between 4 PM and 7 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: At Bar Noir, Jake was kind, friendly, knowledgeable and we loved talking with him about all things “absinthe.” The receptionists at the lobby registration area were also very professional and generous in their assistance regarding our inquiries. The staff at Oliverio was very informed, welcoming and professional.

PRICE / VALUE: Bar Noir impressed for just $5 per absinthe tasting, while the Oliverio Lounge showed comparable value with their cocktail and edibles selections.

CORKAGE FEE: $25 per bottle during Happy Hour and non-Happy Hour times of the day at Oliverio.

CONTACT INFO: Bar Noir – Phone: (310) 281-4003, Website: www.maison140beverlyhills.com, Oliverio Lounge – Phone: (310) 277-5221, Website:http://www.avalonbeverlyhills.com

PARKING: Metered street parking close to the hotel entrance at the Avalon or Valet service, then for Maison 140, there is parking right in front of the hotel, as well as metered street parking surrounding the property.

TOTAL BILL: Bar Noir’s two absinthe tastings totalled $10.88 (including tax), while Oliverio came in at a total of $34.81 (including tax). The grand total for BOTH totalled $45.69 for the evening. Great food, outstanding service, and a bit of education along the way!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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Category Archives: Happy Hours

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

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

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IL CIELO RESTAURANT… “A Dream Worth Stepping Into!”

THE PENTHOUSE @ HUNTLEY HOTEL… “Sky-High Sophistication At The Huntley Hotel!”

WISEGUYS… “Great Bites With A Cosmopolitan Feel!”

LA FRITE CAFE… “Sister Locations Serving Up Exquisite French Cuisine!”

LA FRITE CAFE… “Sister Locations Serving Up Exquisite French Cuisine!”

THE BISTRO GARDEN @ COLDWATER… “Updated Happy Hour Menu!”

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE… “A Woodland Hills Experience!”

DANIEL’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE… “Restaurant By Day, Dance Club By Night!”

BAYSIDE… “Upscale Relaxed Elegance With Stunning Harbor Views!”

TRULUCK’S SAN DIEGO… “La Jolla’s ‘True Luck’ Restaurant!”

BOA STEAKHOUSE… “Modern Steakhouse Excellence!”

PALOMINO RESTAURANT & BAR… “Happy Hour All Day, Every Day!”

ANDERSEN’S DANISH BAKERY & RESTAURANT… “The Perfect Spot For Dinner After a Day of Wine Tasting In Santa Ynez!”

HOUSE OF CHAN DARA SIAMESE KITCHEN… “How Did We Ever Miss This?”

CAFE LA BOHEME… “A Night at the Opera!”

ROY’S HAWAIIAN FUSION RESTAURANT… “Hawaiian Fusion at Aloha Hour!”

PINK TACO @ CENTURY CITY WESTFIELD MALL… “Happy Hour Heaven!”

KRAVINGS WORLD FUSION STEAKHOUSE & LOUNGE… “Satisfy YOUR Kraving!”

ROCKSUGAR PAN ASIAN KITCHEN… “An Asian Experience!”

BLVD 16 LOUNGE… “Updated Happy Hour Menu!”

BAR NOIR @ MAISON 140 & OLIVERIO LOUNGE @ THE AVALON HOTEL… “Beverly Hills Sisters!”