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

Posted on May 18, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

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

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

Prosciutto Wrapped Romaine Hearts

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

Australian Wagyu Strip Steak

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

Delta Asparagus With Citrus Marinade & Truffled Potato Pave

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

Grilled Hawaiian Swordfish

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

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

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

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Modern sophistication combines with a classic steakhouse feel. Leather booths, bold pops of red chairs in the main dining room, and a dimly-lit and romantic vibe echo throughout the restaurant.

FOOD / DRINK: Fresh-tasting and handmade, we were satisfied with everything we encountered from both the restaurant’s main menu as well as the Cut Of The Week menu (and the extras the kitchen sent out to us!)

LOCATION: This particular Charlie Palmer Steak is located inside the Four Seasons Hotel at 3960 Las Vegas Boulevard on the south end of the Strip in Las Vegas, NV 89119.

HOURS: Charlie Palmer Steak is open for dinner Monday through Saturday from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM. The Lounge is available for service Monday through Saturday from 5:30 PM until 12 Midnight.

SERVICE / STAFF: An efficient and gracious serving team will cater to your every whim. We experienced full attentive service, and had no problems during our meal.

PRICE / VALUE: Prices will vary depending what you’re ordering, of course. However, the Cut Of The Week menus offer a lot for under $50 per person with bottomless wine pairings throughout all three courses. Not a bad deal for a restaurant of this caliber.

CORKAGE FEE: Unfortunately,no alcohol is permitted to be brought into the restaurant.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (702) 632-5120, Website: www.charliepalmer.com

PARKING: Valet service is available for your convenience in front of the main entrance to the Four Seasons Hotel.

PRICING: The Cut Of The Week Menu with three courses and bottomless wine pairings was $48, while the Grilled Hawaiian Swordfish stood at a solid $38. An additional glass of Chardonnay was $11

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on May 8, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

Cocktails & Wine To Start The Evening

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

A Modo Mio

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

Fiori Di Zucca

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

Stracotto

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

Lasagna Verdi

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

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

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

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Modern and trendy feel with enhancements of culinary expertise at every turn. Comfortable large booths and nicely-appointed dinner tables offer a cozy intimate setting inside beneath ornamental glass chandeliers overhead, while an expansive garden dining patio features quite a show with its “floating fireplace” and water feature. Action is lively at the crudo bar upon entering the venue where cocktails and fresh seafood compilations entice diners and satisfy even the most discriminative gourmet.

FOOD / DRINK: A wide selection of upscale presentations will delight the palate, and fascinate the visual perception of all who enter the restaurant. Fine Italian fare is elegantly prepared and distributed from the kitchen with poised perfection.

LOCATION: Culina Modern Italian restaurant is located inside the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills at 300 South Doheny Drive in Los Angeles, CA 90048.

HOURS: Serving phenomenal meals daily, Culina is available for breakfast Monday through Saturday from 6:30 AM to 11 AM, brunch on Sundays from 10 AM until 2 PM, lunch is offered Monday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, while dinner hours run Sunday through Wednesday from 6 PM until 10:30 PM, as well as Thursday through Saturday from 6 PM until 11 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Both management and the service staff were extremely efficient, attentive at every turn, and gracious. At no point did we feel that we were forgotten during our evening of dining at Culina.

PRICE / VALUE: Reasonable in our opinion for the stunning display of attractive fare prepared and presented, the romantic and eye-catching elegant, yet modern décor throughout, and the overall feel of warmth and intimacy throughout the entire venue.

CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750mL bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 860-4000, Website: www.culinarestaurant.com

PARKING: We chose to allow the hotel’s valet service take care of our vehicle for the evening while we dined at Culina.

PRICING: The A Modo Mio and Fiorni Di Zuppa starters are priced reasonably at $14 each, while the Stracatto entrée was a solid $35. The Lasagna Verdi came in at a reasonable $19, while a Blueberry Stoli Martini will cost about $18 along with an additional $14 for a Bacardi Rum & Coke cocktail. The Tortino and Sorbetti desserts are each a soothing $9, and each bottle of wine you bring to enjoy with your meal will add a charge of $25. All fair pricing, and well worth the splurge in our opinion.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on April 5, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

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

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

Hen Of The Woods & Artichoke Starters

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

Branzino

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

Wagyu Flat Iron Steak

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

Tiramisu

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Mercato di Vetro will astound your visual perception with its multi-colored glass bottle displays, its two-story dining space with expansive bars, two impressive preview kitchens, and a romantic, candlelit ambiance throughout.

FOOD / DRINK: We could have enjoyed the entire evening just indulging in tapas, however delving into the main courses is well worth the experience. We didn’t have to be convinced to try the restaurant’s Tiramisu for a sweet temptation after dinner either! Cocktails were refreshing, uniquely-designed, and hand-shaken by proficient mixologists, and Mercato di Vetro’s wine list offers succulent tasting wines to accompany any item on the menu.

LOCATION: Mercato di Vetro is located at 9077 Santa Monica Boulevard (next door to The Troubadour) in West Hollywood, CA 90069.

HOURS: Open for business Monday through Wednesday, and Sunday for dinner from 6 PM to 10 PM. Thursday through Saturday, the restaurant serves from 6 PM to 11 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: We had the immeasurable pleasure of being taken care of by General Manager, Sandro Coppola and our server, Jay, who both expelled superior knowledge about the establishment, the menu, and the history of the building. Sandro’s expert management of the staff and overall flow of the business is meticulously executed, and his customer service is seamless and admirable.

PRICE / VALUE: Well-priced selections from tapas-style cured meats and cheeses to gourmet vegetable presentations to delectable seafood and meat items to house made pizzas and pasta dishes. Artisan cocktails and wines will add to the final bill quickly, but are worth experiencing.

CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750mL bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 859-8369, Website: www.sbe.com/mercatodivetro

PARKING: If you’re fortunate enough to locate a metered parking space near the restaurant, do so without hesitation. Valet parking is available for the eatery, which is shared with valet parking for The Troubadour next door for $8 per vehicle.

PRICING: The Peartini and Blood Orange Martinis were $15 each, while the Hen Of The Woods and the Artichoke starters were $9 each. The Branzino dish came in at a reasonable $19, while the Wagyu Flat Iron Steak was a solid $25, and the Tiramisu dessert was and easy $10. We also enjoyed the 2011 Italian Hofstatter Pinot Noir at $13 per glass.

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

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

STONEFIRE GRILL… “Stonefired Flavor & Family Dedication!”

Posted on March 21, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

Freshly Baked Breadsticks

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

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

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

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

10″ Margherita Pizza, Pesto Pasta & Garlic Mashed Potatoes

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

Stonefire Grill’s Fresh Salmon

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

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

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

Mesquite BBQ & Lemon Garlic Chicken

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

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

Stonefire Grill’s Famous Carrot Cake

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Warm earth tones create a cozy feel inside the restaurant, while there exists a consistent flow among the staff and patrons.

FOOD / DRINK: We definitely DO recommend Stonefire Grill to anyone who is searching for an authentic, unique, delicious meal out. Whether for a single diner, a family of twelve, or somewhere in the middle, Stonefire Grill is that perfect answer to all of those needs. Foods are delivered daily to the restaurants to ensure freshness, the entire menu is available for Take-Out to make it more convenient for those on the go, and dressings and sauces are made fresh every morning, while sous chefs are kept on hand throughout the day to maintain freshness of all salads, sides, and meal presentations.

LOCATION: The restaurant we visited was located at 3635 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.

HOURS: Available for lunch and dinner, the Thousand Oaks Stonefire Grill location is available for dining from 11 AM to 9:30 PM Sunday through Thursday, and again on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 AM to 10 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: We were impressed with the astounding service we received. From General Manager, Jacob Shearer, and his glowing explanation about working for the company, to our discussions with multiple staff members who always seemed to be genuinely smiling to be employed at Stonefire Grill, my husband and I left that night feeling even better than we did when we arrived. Fantastic staff rapport, an incredible morale among everyone, and a team effort feeling that’s very obvious.

PRICE / VALUE: The price for the value of the cuisine at Stonefire Grill was very reasonable. Portions are larger than most, as they are meant for sharing in most cases.

CORKAGE FEE: Stonefire Grill charges an easy $2 per 750mL bottle. We just couldn’t resist when we heard that, so we brought a bottle with us when we dined at the restaurant!

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (805) 413-0300, Website: www.stonefiregrill.com

PARKING: The Thousand Oaks location supplies ample complimentary parking in the private lot located beside the restaurant.

TOTAL BILL: We were honored to have been the guests of Stonefire Grill this particular evening, which was hosted by Groff-Hinman

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

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on March 12, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

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

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

Insalata di Arugola

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

Farfalle con Salmone Addunicato

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

Pollo con Limone

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

Penne con Melanzane

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

Pasticcio con Ragu e Porcini

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

Pasticco con Ragu e Porcini

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Girasole is a small charming Italian restaurant with limited seating indoors that will require a reservation to ensure a table due to space and popularity. Indoors, you will gain a feeling of warmth and casual elegance from the soft tones and white tablecloths carefully draped atop tables enhanced by candlelight. Outside seating is limited along the sidewalk in front of the business with heaters for cooler evenings and a view of Larchmont Boulevard.

FOOD / DRINK: Tasteful and bursting with flavors of love that were put into each dish in the kitchen, elegantly presented, and just all around fantastic.

LOCATION: Girasole Cucina Italiana is located in Larchmont Village at 225 1/2 Larchmont Boulevard in Los Angeles (Mid Wilshire), CA 90004.

HOURS: Girasole is available for dining Tuesday through Friday from 12 PM to 10 PM, and on Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 PM to 10 PM. It’s a good idea to make a reservation due to the limited seating. But take our word for it that you will be so happy to experience this paragon of the community.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was Sophia, and she was as friendly and efficient as could be. She also made a point to check on us frequently despite the inside of the small eatery being completely full. Just delightful service that will most certainly bring us back again.

PRICE / VALUE: Excellent pricing for excellent Italian cuisine.

CORKAGE FEE: The restaurant does not have a liquor license, so they welcome you to bring your own wine with NO CORKAGE FEE! Bring something from your personal cellar, or stop in next door at Larchmont Village Wine, Spirits & Cheese for a nice selection there as well.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (323) 464-6978, Website: www.girasolecucina.com

PARKING: There is ample metered parking along Larchmont Boulevard, which runs in front of Girasole restaurant.

TOTAL BILL: For the two of us, our bill came to $47.85 (including tax) for the Insalata di Arugola, the Pollo con Limone e Capperi, the Farfalle con Salmone Affumicato, and no corkage charge on the bottle of wine we brought to enjoy with dinner. It’s difficult to find an authentic Italian dinner in a romantic atmosphere for under $50 with wine. Girasole has certainly won our appreciation between the savory Italian cuisine, the unparalleled service that was rendered, and the perfect location in the quaint, cozy neighborhood of Hancock Park.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on March 7, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

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

Casoeula

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

12-Ounce Filet Mignon & Sauteed Mushrooms

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

Torta Sbriciolona

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

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The decor of the restaurant is graced with contemporary touches while embracing patrons in a comforting and inviting surrounding. A full bar staffed with experienced mixologists offers dazzling and refreshing libations, and the dimly-lit romantic ambiance throughout the establishment encourages one to linger a bit longer as the evening goes on.

FOOD / DRINK: Exquisite memorable cuisine prepared by Chef Antonio and his culinary team astounded…leaving smiles on our faces…again. There exists such consistency in the quality of the creations that come out of the Verandah kitchen.

LOCATION: Verandah restaurant is located on the first floor of the Four Seasons Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada at 3960 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas, Nevada 89119.

HOURS: Monday through Friday from 6:30AM – 11AM, Breakfast Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00AM -11AM, Breakfast Buffet Saturdays an Sundays from 8AM – 1PM, Lunch every day from 11:30AM -3PM, Afternoon Tea Monday through Friday from 3PM – 4PM, Dinner every day from 5PM – 10PM. The Verandah Bar is open every day from 12 Noon – 10PM. *Afternoon Tea requires 24-hour advance notice. On Saturday and Sunday, afternoon tea is served for private parties only.

SERVICE / STAFF: The staff at Verandah continues to amaze us with their kindness, graciousness, and welcoming invitation each time we visit. We were so happy to be served by Leakhena again, as we have always appreciated her warm demeanor, charming personality, and professional service.

PRICE / VALUE: We were satisfied with the value we received for what was charged for the cuisine at Verandah.

CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750mL bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (702) 632 – 5121, Website: www.fourseasons.com

PARKING: Valet service is available to care for your vehicle while dining at Verandah.

TOTAL BILL: Our final bill came in over $100, but between two glasses of rose Champagne, a 12-ounce Filet with a side of sauteed mushrooms, and my selection of the 3-Course Lombardia Region Tasting Menu, we had no complaints.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on February 26, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

The Wedge

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

…THEN CAME THE BURGERS…

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

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

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

Atlantic Salmon Steak Burger

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

Turkey Burger

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

Irish Coffee Milkshake…With Alcohol!

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

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: With a trendy sports bar feel, this burger restaurant is comforting, cozy, and inviting. The decibel level of the crowd can get a bit loud…especially at the bar is patrons are enjoying a game…however, we wound up enjoying our experience overall.

FOOD / DRINK: Quality ingredients, made-to-suit burger construction, sensational appetizing result once orders are cooked to perfection, flavorsome cocktails, and alcoholic milkshakes! What could possibly be better than that? No wonder there are Burger Bars in St. Louis and San Francisco also!

LOCATION: Burger Bar is located in The Shoppes At Mandalay Bay at 3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas, NV 89119.

HOURS: Burger Bar keeps very convenient hours serving Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM to 11 PM, then on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 AM to 1 AM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was cordial, polite, helpful, and explained the restaurant’s concept thoroughly.

PRICE / VALUE: Gourmet burgers from one of the highest regarded chefs in America for a bit more money than your usual sandwich? Why not? We feel that what we paid for what we received was right on the mark!

CORKAGE FEE: We were informed by the restaurant’s hostess that Burger Bar has NO CORKAGE CHARGE! We were surprised, yet pleasantly so.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (702) 632-9364, Website: www.burger-bar.com

PARKING: We had access from our hotel right into Mandalay Bay, which allowed us to remain indoors on our trek to Burger Bar. However, Mandalay Bay offers valet parking for your convenience as well.

TOTAL BILL: Our final bill for a glass of wine, a Wedge Salad, one Turkey Burger on ciabatta bread with grilled onions and cheddar cheese, one Atlantic Salmon Steak Burger with grilled onions and Brie, and one Irish Coffee Milkshake totaled over $50 (including tax), but sat very well with us after such a fulfilling, interesting, and delicious meal.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on February 22, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

Fresh Baked Ciabatta Bread Served With Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinaigrette

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

Sonoma Salad

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

BBQ Chicken Pizza

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

Chicken Picatta

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

Tagliatelle Bolognese

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

Chicken Marsala

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

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Tables are topped with crisp white linens, while large mirrors hang perfectly aligned on the interior walls against soft-toned surroundings and deep wood enhancements throughout the dining space. Outside, sidewalk tables are kept warm in the chilly weather by modern outdoor heaters which also add an element of intrigue to the area.

FOOD / DRINK: Flavorsome dishes, terrific deals on wines during the weekends, and consistency from week to week in everything that is prepared here.

LOCATION: Louise’s Trattoria restaurants are located across southern California, but the specific locale on Larchmont Boulevard that we frequent is at 232 North Larchmont Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA 90004.

HOURS: Louise’s is available for dining Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 10:30 PM, and on Sundays from 12 PM to 9:30 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Sincere concern for customers can be felt at Louise’s. Servers, other staff, and management show that they are truly happy to be serving you.

PRICE / VALUE: Realistic pricing for traditional Italian favorites. (Ask your server about the Louise’s Rewards Program to earn points for member discounts on future bills!)

CORKAGE FEE: $10 per 750mL bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (323) 962-9510, Website: www.louises.com.

PARKING: Metered parking is available in front of the restaurant and along Larchmont Boulevard.

TOTAL BILL: Our bills have never exceeded $40 for the two of us on any occasion thus far.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on February 18, 2013 by savo0429

UNFORTUNATELY, THIS RESTAURANT IS NOW CLOSED.

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

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

Shrimp Casserole

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

Trota Alla Girglia

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

Chocolate Cake Dessert With Vanilla Gelato

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

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

ESTABLISHMENT: We have dined on the intimate patio as well as inside the restaurant. However, we have chosen the romantic patio as our favorite place when dining here. It’s private and more quiet than indoors on a busy evening when the crown inside gets a bit noisy.

FOOD / DRINK: Fresh, creatively presented, tasty and will keep you returning for more.

LOCATION: 2932 Beverly Glen Circle in Bel Air, CA 90077.

HOURS: Lunch is available Monday through Fridays from 11:30 Am to 2:30 PM, Dinner on Monday through Thursdays is presented from 5:30 PM – 10 PM, Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, and on Sundays from 5 PM to 9 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: maria is always a gracious server, while Tido has meticulously and professionally maintained this Cozy Bel Air gem for the enjoyment of his patrons for so many years.

PRICE / VALUE: Extremely realistic for a cozy, intimate dinner in a calming romantic environment with a wine list of over 200 vintages spanning from Italy and California wineries.

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per 750mL bottle of wine.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 470-6223, Website: mulhollandgrill.com

PARKING: There is ample parking in the lot at the Glen Center, where Mulholland Grill is nestled amongst several other venues.

TOTAL BILL: We indulged in the restaurant’s $15 corkage and brought a bottle of one of our favorite wines to accompany dinner, enjoyed the Shrimp Casserole and Trota Alla Girglia entrees, and even indulge in the sinful Chocolate Cake offering for dessert. In all, our total bill came to $63.05 (including tax). Well worth the price for such an amazing evening.

* 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.

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

Posted on January 17, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

Signature Greyhound Proper and a Traditional Lemon Drop Martini

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

Two-Tier ‘Fruit of the Sea’ Platter

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

Dungeness Crab Salad

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

Prosciutto Wrapped Sea Bass

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

Blueberry & Ricotta Begniets With Meyer Lemon Curd

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: An upscale seafood house casual enough to feel relaxed as you enter. A welcoming beachy nautical feel persists inside, while a more private intimate outdoor patio area exists for dining as well.

FOOD / DRINK: Fresh quality seafood, stunning entree presentations, and outstanding flavor-filled cocktails.

LOCATION: The Hungry Cat is locate at 100 West Channel Road at Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, CA 90402.

HOURS: The Hungry Cat in Santa Monica is open for dinner Monday through Sunday from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM and on Friday and Saturday from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM. The bar opens Monday through Friday for Happy Hour and for access to the raw bar inside. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 3 PM with the raw bar and cocktails offered all day on the weekends.

SERVICE / STAFF: Friendly, courteous servers assist with most anything you can think of from entree suggestions, to wine pairings, to the perfect cocktails to enjoy before dinner.

PRICE / VALUE: Fair prices for the quality fresh seafood and other items available. There’s no doubt that we will be returning to experience it all over again.

CORKAGE FEE: $35 per 750mL bottle with a two-bottle limit per visit.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 459-3337, Website: www.thehungrycat.com

PARKING: Valet parking is provided for your convenience at the main entrance to the restaurant.

TOTAL BILL: Our final bill came in around $180 (including tax), but we’d do it again in a heartbeat. Well worth the splurge. And well worth the experience.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

Posted on January 13, 2013 by savo0429

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

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

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

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

Raspberry Martini, Champagne and a Glass of Pinot Noir

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

Fanny Bay Oysters

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

Chilled Cucumber and Avocado Soup

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

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

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

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Interior View

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

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

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

Side of Irresistible Creamed Spinach

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

Chilled Raspberry Puree

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

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Classic steakhouse ambiance with a modern motif throughout. Upscale, yet welcoming and enjoyable in all aspects of the establishment.

FOOD / DRINK: Fine cuisine preparations, refreshing and savory beverages, appealing visual appearance, and perfectly-dispensed portions.

LOCATION: J & G Steakhouse is located at the Phoenician Resort at 6000 East Camelback Road in Scottsdale, AZ 85251.

HOURS: The establishment serves dinner Sunday through Thursday from 5 PM to 10 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 PM – 11 PM. The bar is available daily beginning at 5 PM except on Thursdays, which is when it is reserved for the restaurant’s Happy Hour from 4 PM to 7 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was Anthony. He was courteous, efficient, and extremely knowledgeable about wine pairings and the dinner menu.

PRICE / VALUE: J & G Steakhouse is a John-Georges Vongerichten eatery. Just as our review on Dune Restaurant & Bar at the One & Only Ocean Club in the Bahamas showcased the fine excellence and culinary talents of Chef Vongerichten, so do we with this article. An extraordinary evening for the two of us was well worth the cost.

CORKAGE FEE: Outside alcohol is not allowed into the restaurant.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (480) 214-8000, Website: www.jgsteakhousescottsdale.com

PARKING: Complimentary valet parking is offered at the main entry to The Phoenician, while convenient self parking is also available on property.

TOTAL BILL: Everything tallied, our dining experience totaled right over $150. Worthwhile, memorable, and definitely worth the splurge!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

AUREOLE @ MANDALAY BAY RESORT & CASINO… “Swan Court Seating & Flying Wine Angels!”

Posted on January 2, 2013 by savo0429

By definition, the word ‘aureole’ means ‘the outermost region of the sun’s atmosphere; visible as a white halo during a solar eclipse, and an indication of radiant light drawn around the head of a saint’. By realistic standards, Aureole’s name is extremely appropriate considering that this fine dining establishment headed by renowned celebrity Chef Charlie Palmer has become a virtual ‘halo’ crowning the Mandalay Bay shopping plaza in Las Vegas. Between the sky high glass encased wine tower with its own harnessed ‘Wine Angel Stewards” hoisted up the vertical space of fine vintages inside the restaurant’s glass-enclosed spectacle, to the ‘Swan Court’ where patrons are enchanted by live graceful feathered creatures swimming slowly past floor-to-ceiling windows along a serene waterfall-laden pond in the middle of Sin City, to an exquisite culinary menu meticulously detailed and prepared by Chef Charlie Palmer himself in an inviting space exuding modern sophistication in every sense of the word, Aureole restaurant is by far a sure winner among the vast array of culinary possibilities along Las Vegas Boulevard.

Chef Charlie Palmer crafted his first vision of Aureole in the bustling and energetic city of Manhattan, New York. Since its opening in 1988 on the Upper East Side, it was later moved to the first floor of the Bank of America building on popular 42nd Street, which is host to an array of theaters, the United Nations building, the Chrysler Building, the Grand Central Terminal, and the ever popular Times Square. In 1999, Chef Charlie Palmer extended his vision to the Vegas ‘strip’, building a second Aureole inside the Mandalay Bay shopping plaza. Since that time, the establishment has had nothing but raving reviews, astonishing accolades, and massive positive acceptance from the critical eye of the public gracing its existence. From accepting the Wine Spectator’s Grand Award every year as well as the Four Diamond Award each year since it’s initial opening, Aureole has additionally been graced with the coveted Michelin Star in 2008 and 2009, a Mobil Travel Guide Four Star rating in 2009, and numerous other accolades in the culinary industry that have been well-deserved and graciously accepted.

The interior of this lavish dining venue emanates class in every sense of the word. Renowned international restaurant architect, Adam Tihany exceeded the expectations of many after his imaginative design concepts brilliantly exploded into the space that is now Aureole. A sky bridge that leads from the main entrance wraps around the largest wine tower in the world and down to an alluring suede-walled lounge where your visual journey is just beginning. In the mood for a cocktail from the skilled mixologist at the bar or a recommendation from the Sommelier before being seated for dinner? That’s as easy as seating yourself at the intimate dimly-lit wine bar as you watch harnessed wine angels being uplifted toward the heavens to retrieve your selected vintage from a menu of over 10,000 exclusive bottles of fine wines. Additionally, there are several tantalizing chilled signature pre-dinner conglomerations available in which to indulge.

Aureole’s Four-Story Climate-Control Center-Of-Attention Wine Tower

Executive Chef Vincent Poussel seamlessly delivers the culinary delights meticulously crafted by Chef Charlie Palmer’s signature style in a timely fashion to well-dressed patrons awaiting the meal of a lifetime. And the meal of a lifetime is indeed what you will receive at Charlie Palmer’s Aureole restaurant in exciting Sin City.

Once seated in a dining room with towering ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Swan Court (more on that in a moment), we began with a selection of Champagne chosen from a computerized wine menu. We also appreciated more Champagne with our meal as well as a white wine pairing with our entrees suggested by the restaurant’s Sommelier. A variety of fresh-baked bread was offered to us before our appetizers arrived. Below, a baked pretzel bread, a melt-in-your-mouth tender rosemary herb roll, and a slice of crusty French bread.

Preserved Lemon Ravioli

I selected the preserved Lemon Ravioli ($18) as my starter to our meal. Crafted with tender succulent chunks of Maine lobster, crispy baby artichokes, and sweet caramelized prunes, this appetizer was tastefully executed and delightful in flavor and texture. The delicately tinted foam atop this presentation was also a lovely attribute.

Yellow Fin Tuna Poke

My husband relished in the Yellow Fin Tuna Poke ($18). Pronounced (po-kay) in proper Hawaiian language, this island favorite is a raw salad of flavorsome cubed ahi (yellow fin tuna) sashimi marinated with sea salt, soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed and chopped chili pepper. Besides the subtle heat of the chili pepper within this starter, my husband appreciated the visual arrangement and freshness of flavor from this offering. The eye-catching vibrant emerald hue from the seaweed salad beneath the poke was crowned with a sushi rice cracker and an accompaniment of avocado mouse was dotted alongside as a simple, yet flavorsome garnish.

Diver Scallop

Executive Chef Vincent Poussel sent the above Diver Scallop tasting out to our table in appreciation of our dining at the restaurant. This delightfully handsome dish was a flavor-packed surprise with its soft-as-butter perfectly seared Diver Sea Scallop ornamented with sea beans, pickled turnips, purple potato and cashew soy butter. (Thank you, Chef Vincent!)

Now allow me to transform your thoughts to a slight pause between these divine courses at Aureole. Let’s step outside and fascinate ourselves with a question. A question which entertains the senses of visual perception beyond the fine dining spectacles inside. (I promise we’ll come back!) Let’s contemplate live swans in all their grace floating along a serene pond complete with a gentle waterfall and flowing fountains with calming colored lighting glowing from beneath the water, and appropriate foliage making one think twice if they are indeed in Vegas…in the middle of the desert. As the contemplation continues, four elegant female swans in all their glory slowly approach from around a bend in the pond. At first, they appear as four bright white slowly-moving dots along the water’s surface. Then, before you know it, they are before you. Speaking in their own unique angelic language, seeking your gentle attention, and hoping for a crumb you may have taken from your table’s bread plate.

Below, meet the ladies of the Swan Court at Aureole…

After some pleading from my husband to return inside for the remainder of our dinner, I bid the feathery ladies in the pond goodnight, crumbled a final slice of bread for them, and placed the pieces of expertly-baked dough along the water’s edge and returned to my seat just in time as our entrees arrived…

Wild Striped Bass

The Wild Striped Bass ($38), which was my dinner entree choice, was incredibly pleasing to the palate. Between the foundation of creamy bulgar wheat, crunchy candied pecans, tangerine segments and Brussel leaves, the delicately-textured fish was carefully seasoned and mild in taste. I was ecstatic with delight over the dynamic presentation, dazzling mixture of flavors, and phenomenal aroma of the ingredients as this dish sat before me.

Niman Ranch Double Pork Chop

My husband is a meat eater. Our readers can pretty much gather that about him due to all of the steaks he enjoys when we’re dining together. However, on occasion, he is also entertained by a fabulous pork chop. This Niman Ranch Double Pork Chop ($38) was an all-natural culinary gem. The potato salardaise (potatoes cooked in duck fat), collard greens with bacon bits, and roasted apples blended nicely with the the mild flavor of the pork and the saltiness of the bacon bits and rich enhancement from the salardaise. Just a beauty of a dish!

Dessert Sampler

This stunning Dessert Sampler ($12) arrived after my husband and I finished every bite of culinary genius on our plates from dinner. (I’m not quite sure how we did that either!) But, somehow we managed to find a bit more room for the beautiful colorful desserts that were presented to us. This display of heavenly treats included a carrot cake filling rolled inside slices of fresh sweet carrot, an ale-battered apple fritter (tarragon anglaise, fresh apple slaw, and maple ice cream), an Alpaco molten chocolate cake (orange caramel, Cacao tea cookie, Earl Grey ice cream), and Cafe Au Lait Creme Brulee (Kahlua cream, almond fennel biscotti). Every tasteful (and sinful) flavor one can think of came packed into this sample plate of sweet and savory goodness. The Trio of Sorbets came out with the Dessert Sampler and featured flavors such as wild strawberry, island mango, and southern peach served in a triangular dish crowned with a pineapple crisp. What more could we ask for?

Trio of Sorbets

Aureole in Las Vegas not only met our expectations, but it exceeded them. The culinary talents of Chef Vincent and his kitchen staff proved noteworthy, the management and serving staff were knowledgeable and gracious, and the overall ambiance of the restaurant was pleasantly surprising and satisfactory. We especially would like to thank Restaurant Captain, Malek Sadri for his seamless and well-managed supervision of the overall flow of service and for his flawless attention to our dining needs. His professional demeanor and sincere devotion to his patrons was indeed impressive. We truly look forward to seeing him again soon. My husband and I enjoyed ourselves and look forward to returning in the near future to indulge in everything Aureole has to offer.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Modern, upscale, inviting, and comforting with something to entertain the eye at every turn from the live swans to the wine angels to the steel-and-glass climate-controlled wine tower to the breathtaking culinary presentations that arrive at your table.

FOOD / DRINK: Fresh, seasonal favorites with a classic European spin that you will not likely soon forget.

LOCATION: Aureole is located inside the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino at 3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas, NV 89119.

HOURS: Aureole is available daily for dinner from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM. The wine lounge is available daily from 5:30 PM until midnight, while Happy Hour exists from 5:30 PM until 7 PM in the lounge area.

SERVICE / STAFF: Accommodating, friendly, professional, poised, informed and show that they really care about patrons having a memorable experience.

PRICE / VALUE: Excellent value for the level of quality provided in cuisine, ambiance and service.

CORKAGE FEE: Outside alcohol is not permitted inside the establishment, however, there is an ample selection of fine vintages and other tantalizing liquid libations available from skilled mixologists in the Aurele lounge.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (702) 632-7200, Website: www.charliepalmer.com

PARKING: The location of Aureole inside the Mandalay Bay shopping plaza was in very close proximity to our hotel at the Four Seasons, which we walked from for our dinner reservation. If you are driving to the restaurant, we would recommend taking advantage of the hotel valet at Mandalay Bay, then walking from the hotel lobby to the restaurant.

TOTAL BILL: Our final bill was over $220, however for the excellently poised service, special attention from the staff and management, spellbinding decor and ambiance, and exceptional cuisine, we feel it was well worth the splurge, and an extremely fair price for what was rendered. We will most definitely be returning again very soon.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

VENI VIDI VICI… “Handcrafted Pastas In the Heart of Atlanta!”

Posted on December 4, 2012 by savo0429

When in Atlanta, you simply cannot pass up a dining experience at Veni Vidi Vici. Located in Atlanta’s theater and Midtown Business District, this eatery has developed itself into one of the finest Italian hot spots in the city. The name, Veni Vidi Vici was seemingly penned by Julius Caesar around 49 BC which translates to, “I came, I saw, I conquered.” Supposedly a statement of opinion pertaining to a brief battle he was engaged in with Pharnaces II of Pontus. (A little history for those of our readers who appreciate a little background!) Originally opened in 1990, Executive Chef Jamie Adams joined the culinary team at Veni Vidi Vici in 1993, and has since been delighting anticipating patrons with his impassioned love of culinary creativity.

As a major feature in the line-up of Buckhead Life Restaurant Group’s extremely successful eateries throughout Atlanta, Veni Vidi Vici owns the rights to a plethora of awards and accreditations spanning from the likes of Gourmet Magazine, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Magazine, Wine Spectator, and many more. We can attempt to convince our readers all day of this restaurant’s many reasons for its numerous accolades, but until you try it for yourself, you won’t truly comprehend the many reasons why this establishment is loved by so many.

Above, the entrance to the restaurant shows off a stand displaying empty wine bottles beside a table of the venue’s business cars and literature. And we especially enjoyed the wreaths of garlic hanging from the chandeliers overhead as we dined, the Veni Vidi Vici menu proclaiming its excellent tantalizing Italian offerings, and the preview kitchen where all the action occurs in the main dining room of the establishment.

Expertly hand-shaken martinis are prepared and dispersed from the bar, while the wine options here are numerous. We enjoyed a few martinis, a little red wine, and a little white wine with our meal on this particular occasion. In fact, the restaurant prides itself on its ’40 Under $40′ wine promotion…daily from 5 PM – 10 PM, you can choose from forty select bottles of Vini Vidi Vici’s wine collection, each one under $40! Additionally, you can opt for the quartino (a glass and a half) of a select wine during the same hours every day for the price of one glass!

We enjoyed the Agnolotti dish, which was a ravioli creation of rotisserie meats and delicious Fontina cheese with brown sugar and pecans. Not light, but definitely well worth the additional calories to indulge in this savory, hearty pasta entree.

Wood roasted stuffed salmon, roasted tomato risotto, crispy onions, balsamic syrup…all the ingredients for the makings of a sensational salmon entree. The sweet crispy onions, zesty and wholesome flavor of the tomatoes and perfectly prepared tasteful fresh salmon came together in a symphony of melodic and memorable tastes.

Salmone

Time for a little something sweet and savory…time for a little dessert for the table! Below, this stunning and delectable trio of crisp cookies was fashioned into a sandwich layered with a savory creamy filling then topped with a berry compote, a sprinkling of confectioner’s sugar then garnished with a bright green sprig of mint.

Triple Cookie Dessert

Veni Vidi Vici is one of our Top Ten venues to dine in Atlanta. We know you will enjoy your experience as well. Don’t forget, there’s also weekend jazz Fridays and Sundays from 7 PM – 10 PM by local musician Sal Gentile. And on’t forget about the ’40 Under $40′ wine promotion offering any of a list of select bottles under $40, or simply choose a quartino (glass and 1/2) for the price of a single serving! Wine specials, tasting options, fine quality Italian cuisine and specialty service is what you’ll find at Veni Vidi Vici in the heart of Atlanta, with a heart of its own in terms of fantastic Italian dishes, creative culinary presentation, exemplary service and a memorable experience.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Upscale elegance is displayed by means of most everything at Veni Vidi Vici. From the open preview kitchen with its viewable exposed stainless steel kitchen vent climbing up the wall above the open area to the fashionable immense welcoming bar area to the comforting seating selection..there’s nothing that was forgotten in terms of comfort, decor or ambiance at this establishment.

FOOD / DRINK: Chef Jamie Adams excels in the Veni Vidi Vici kitchen preparing handcrafted sensational pastas, rotisserie fare and exemplary confections all focused around the flavorsome and visual pleasure of his dining patrons.

LOCATION: Veni Vidi Vici is located in Atlanta’s Midtown Business District at 41 14th Street in Atlanta, GA 30309.

HOURS: Restaurant hours of operation include lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM – 3 PM. Dinner is served Monday through Thursday from 3 PM – 10 PM, Fridays from 3 PM – 11 PM, Saturdays from 5 PM – 11 PM, and on Sundays from 5 PM – 10 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Each visit to Veni Vidi Vici, we were honored with kind, friendly, knowledgeable servers with cheerful attitudes and a gracious demeanor.

PRICE / VALUE: Depending on what is ordered and the number of diners in your party, the price, of course, will vary. However, we have always felt satisfied with the quality of the service, cuisine, and overall ambiance this restaurant offers.

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per 750mL bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (404) 875-8424, Website: www.buckheadrestaurants.com

PARKING: Self and Valet parking is available in the One Atlantic Building Parking Deck nearby.

TOTAL BILL: Our final bill came in just a hair over $120 for four glasses of wine, a martini, two entrees and a dessert. A certain deal, a definite spot for a terrific dinner, and all the quality and value one could expect to receive from such a fine Italian eatery in the heart of Atlanta.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

TAMARIND OF LONDON… “Exquisite Indian Cuisine on the Newport Coast!”

Posted on November 8, 2012 by savo0429

Indian cuisine encompasses an array of indigenous provincial fare. With a diverse amplitude of distinctiveness in soil characteristics and suitable weather of the region, Indian cuisine varies considerably from any other. The application of locally available spices, herbs, vegetables and fruit provides flavors not commonly found elsewhere in the world. Chef Alfred Prasad, an eleven-time Michelin Star recipient, and the only Michelin Star ranked chef in Orange County, has combined his culinary supremacy and intriguing knowledge of Indian cooking with ingredients from local California farmers and cultivators to aid in devising his new culinary masterpiece for us to enjoy as well…the stylish and sophisticated Tamarind of London. Recently named ‘Best Indian Restaurant in Orange County’ by the Golden Foodie Awards, this sanctuary for the senses is just the place to satisfy your craving for impressive Indian cuisine enhanced with subtle Californian characteristics.

Sister property to the famed Tamarind restaurant in the prestigious Mayfair area of central London, Tamarind of London has been featured in such publications as Where Magazine of Orange County, Newport Beach Magazine, the Orange County Metro’s Dining News, the Orange County Register and Virtuoso Life Magazine. The fast-growing popularity of this authentic eatery is sure to become as popular as its older sibling very soon. Warm hospitality is paired with seamless customer service creating a welcoming impression as you enter the restaurant. An ambiance of upscale sophistication surprises and delights the senses, while a creative and stimulating menu will please any palate. Above, views of the restaurant menu, and external photos of the inviting and meditative double-sided fountain and the stunning main entry into the establishment.

Above Interior Photos Courtesy of Eric Figge

Once inside, Tamarind of London will address your visual faculties with well-thought-out components such as rich woods, bright and colorful bursts of appealing coloration, soft leathers, sky-high ceilings and a modern glamour that you will not soon forget. Above, the interior dining area and glass-walled preview kitchen allow for fascinating culinary entertainment as well as a romantic dining experience. The 145-seat restaurant’s modern appeal offers a seductive sophistication that will make you yearn to linger long after you’ve enjoyed a fine meal here. The stunning motif is a feast for the eyes, and an overall explosion of all things extraordinary. Outside, raised fire pits are ignited and the allure and serene tranquility of flowing water from an indoor-outdoor fountain provides a sense of peaceful repose.

Chef Alfred is the youngest Indian chef to receive a Michelin Star. At just twenty-nine years old, he was honored with his first industry-coveted award. The Michelin Star is a trademark of fine dining quality. A distinction certainly well worth Chef Prasad’s accomplishments…eleven years in a row! My husband and I had the distinct honor to meet Chef Prasad after our incredible dinner, and we found him to be extremely amicable, generous and knowledgeable about his restaurant. He takes a lot of pride in this restaurant, and certainly has cause to do so.

Lentil Crackers With a Trio of Sauces, Natura Water, a Watermelon Mezcalrita & a Mumbai Mojito

Once seated, we were served crisp lentil crackers with a trio of savory sauces including berry, papaya-lime and spicy tomato. Lentils are a staple in Indian cuisine, and they’re certainly delicious in these crunchy offerings! Additionally, still or sparkling complimentary water is offered to patrons as well as a selection of reasonably priced hand-shaken cocktails. Above, I enjoyed a Watermelon Mezcalrita ($9). This fruity, yet not overly sweet margarita-esque libation consists of El Mezcalito, muddled watermelon, Grand Marnier, fresh lemon and lime and smoked salt. My husband enjoyed a Mumbai Mojito ($12). This refreshing liquid sensation combines Bacardi Limon Rum, freshly-muddled mint leaves and lime, simple syrup and a lemon-lime soda. Both chilled to perfection and delightful in taste, we were extremely satisfied with these beverage choices. Tamarind of London presents an expansive full bar serving an array of liquid enjoyments from hand-shaken signature and traditional cocktails to outstanding beers to over thirty spectacular wines.

We began with the Soft Shell Crab ‘Small Plate’ for one of our appetizers ($12). Delicately fried and ensconced in coconut, fennel and toasted coriander, each bite of this incredible flavor sensation resonated with our love for seafood, and the sublime crunch as it was bitten into delivered a happiness that only comes with perfectly crafted cuisine. The rejuvenating cucumber salad with yogurt sauce was a nice compliment to this dish…

Soft Shell Crab ‘Small Plate’

Our second appetizer, the below Steamed Prince Edward Island Mussels ‘Small Plate’ item, was worthy of culinary recognition. A surprisingly large portion, these excellently steamed PEI mussels were served piled high in a broth of steamed coconut milk flavored with ginger, curry leaf and turmeric. A sensational combination of flavors that we found ourselves not wanting to ever end. The broth alone was out-of-this-world scrumptious, not to mention the PEI mussels…one of our favorites!

Steamed PEI Mussels

Picturesque and appealing to the senses, we moved on to the Halibut Kebab ($25). Tender, delicate halibut is attentively marinated with ginger, mint saffron, cream, and roasted gram flour (flour made from ground chickpeas), then meticulously spiced and served on a healthy bed of colorful greens accompanied by a lemon wedge. Each bite nearly melts in your mouth upon contact due to the incredible tenderness of this dish, and the savory essence of the colorful marinade enhances the entire dish superbly.

Halibut Kebab

If you’ve never experienced naan, (pronounced “NON”), it is a leavened, oven-baked flat bread commonly enjoyed in India as well as other areas of the world. We tried the Date Naan ($6), which was stuffed with sweet dates and coconut, then finished with poppy seeds. This is the sweetest of the Indian breads offered at Tamarind of London, and it was extremely gratifying.

Date Naan, Cucumber Yogurt and Basmati Rice

The Chicken Curry dish ($20), was phenomenal. We welcomed a touch of the cucumber yogurt to tone down the spice of this succulent preparation, which created a perfect level of cool and spicy flavors. The intensity of the coloration alone was a treat to behold! Made with fall-off-the-bone braised chicken thigh meat, cumin, turmeric, garlic, onion and tomatoes, these components are then integrated to form a most stunning offering of one of the best curry dishes we’ve enjoyed for some time. Don’t forget to add a side of Tamarind of London’s incredible Basmati rice ($3)… it’s a terrific addition to the fine Indian meals that you will find here.

Chicken Curry

My husband was craving something a little sweet after dinner. I fell prey to his desire, and found myself indulging in the Pistachio-Cardamom Kulfi, an Indian ice cream, with him. The pastry-like shell complimented the cold, creamy kulfi and the pieces of pistachio and essence of cardamom blended nicely to create a very satisfying treat. A touch of melted white chocolate, which decorated the plate and held the dessert in place was attractively sprinkled with ground pistachios…

Pistachio and Cardamom Kulfi and Candlelight

But wait…we have more to tell you! Tamarind of London is excited to announce they will begin offering their Holiday Lunch Menu and new hours starting Tuesday, November 13th through the end of the year. Lunch will be available from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM featuring new items expected to temp the palate and seduce the senses. Prices are a reasonable $8.00 – $11.00, and there are many delectable options to choose from.

Salads at a fair $11 and under ranging from Salmon & Giant Couscous to the Trio of Mushrooms to a Calamari & Quinoa version. The Paneer Cheese & Peppers or Lamb Kebab & Avocado Whole Wheat Roti Wraps ($9 – $11) are sure to be a hit also and will be served with julienne vegetables, mint chutney and organic greens.

And here’s your formal introduction to the new ‘Naanwich’! A selection of sandwiches made with naan bread from the Tuna, Sweet Corn & Red Onion Naanwich to the Vegetarian selection to the Butter Chicken & Pickled Onion rendition and the Beef & Potato Pepper-Fly version. Below is a preview of the ‘Naanwich’. How great does this look!

Photo Credit: Tamarind of London

Additionally, Thali Combo Plates will be on the new menu. Thali is an Indian meal made up of a choice of assorted dishes usually served in small bowls on a round tray. These will range from $12 to $16 and will include a diverse selection including Vegetarian, Butter Chicken, Beef Vindaloo, Black Pepper Prawns or Fish Curry to be presented with a vegetable of the day, lentils, naan, raita (a sauce made with yogurt), and rice.

Poached Pear With Ginger Ice Cream and Molten Chocolate Cake sound gratifying? Then try one or both for dessert at Tamarind of London for $5 to $6 each. Chef Alfred will also be offering a Combo Meal option that allows for a drink, salad and either a Naanwich or Wrap for $15, or a 3-course choice, which will include dessert for $20.

Saturdays and Sundays, the Holiday Lunch Menu will be served side by side with brunch proposing such fare as the Masala Scramble made with turmeric and ginger ($8), and the Bombay Toast, a ‘French Toast’ creation made with a spiced egg batter ($7).

We profoundly relished in our meal at Tamarind of London. Chef Alfred’s masterful culinary expertise captures the soul and spirit of fine Indian cuisine with his artful presentations, his highly skilled culinary staff and his love and adoration of all things flavorful.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The country of India is known to many as ‘the country of colors’. Tamarind of London showcases one of those colors inside…the dark apricot hue surrounding the glass-walled preview kitchen. This orange hue is found in the marigold flower that adorns many celebrations held in that part of the world. The restaurant exudes a modern elegance while maintaining a welcoming and hospitable semblance.

FOOD / DRINK: The distinct uniqueness of the cuisine prepared at Tamarind of London combined with the substantial flavor, perfectly-portioned servings and creative inventiveness by Chef Alfred Prasad and his culinary team is significant. We were extremely pleased with our experience, and will return again in the near future, as well as spread the word about this fine dining establishment.

LOCATION: Located at the fashionable, upscale Crystal Cove Promenade, the restaurant is positioned perfectly at 7862 East Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach, CA 92657 right along the Newport Coast.

HOURS: Tamarind of London is excited to announce their new holiday hours! Starting Tuesday, November 13, 2012, through the end of the year, Happy Hour will be available all night on Mondays from 4 PM – 10 PM, Tuesday through Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 2:30 PM to 6 PM. Lunch will be offered Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, and dinner will be served daily at 5 PM. Don’t forget about Tamarind of London’s unforgettable brunch offered Friday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. There’s something delicious and memorable for everyone at times that will suit most any schedule available in between holiday shopping and that busy Orange County lifestyle!

SERVICE / STAFF: We were greeted by our hostess, Amy. She was delightful and could not have been more excited to see us or more complimentary. Once seated, Erin served us for the duration of the evening. Erin was kind and extremely informative, resourceful and suggested items when asked about the menu. We appreciated both Amy and Erin for their professionalism, hospitality and overall appreciation of us dining at the restaurant.

PRICE / VALUE: Prices for the multitude of options at Tamarind of London are extremely fair considering the quality of what is prepared for diners. Hand-shaken cocktails with freshly-muddled ingredients, exquisite attention to the flavor and visual appeal of each dish delivered from the kitchen, the unforgettable romantic and elegant vibe throughout the establishment with splashes of eye-opening hues, and the outstanding service we received from the moment we arrived to the time we departed the restaurant.

CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750ml bottle

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (949) 715-8338, Website: www.tamarindoflondon.com

PARKING: The Crystal Cove Promenade offers ample parking in front of the restaurant. Valet service is also available for your convenience during dinner hours.

TOTAL BILL: We enjoyed complimentary Natura Water to start with delightfully crisp lentil crackers joined with three sauces before ordering the refreshing Watermelon Mezcalrita ($9), and Mumbai Mojito ($12). After obtaining resourceful suggestions from our server, we then chose to start our evening with the Soft Shell Crab ($12) and the Steamed PEI Mussels ($11). Dinner was served with style and grace as we delighted in the Date Naan Indian bread ($6), the Chicken Curry ($20), the Halibut Kebab ($25), and a side of White Basmati Rice ($3). For dessert, we indulged in the Pistachio and Cardamom Kulfi, which finished our meal off nicely.

*SPECIAL THANKS: We would like to thank Chef Alfred Prasad and his culinary team and the entire staff at Groff-Hinman with a special thanks to Jenna Santariano for their generosity and hospitality!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

SANTA FE CAFE… “Southwest Cuisine In a Lowcountry Locale!”

Posted on October 29, 2012 by savo0429

Southwestern cuisine in the Lowcountry? YES! Taking a trip to Santa Fe Cafe on beautiful Hilton Head Island, SC will show you why it’s just that good. This upscale unique New Mexican restaurant has been shining for over twenty years serving locals and visitors alike incredible and succulent fare from tender, perfectly cooked fish to hearty juicy steaks to out-of-this-world chimichangas and unforgettable fajitas, among many other specialties.

We’ve had so many outstanding meals at Santa Fe Cafe that we just cannot count the number of times we’ve been repeatedly delighted by this establishment. This article would go on forever if we include all of the fabulous selections we’ve ordered in the past. But we’ll highlight a few of our favorites for you in this write-up. Santa Fe Cafe is different than most other island establishments. For one, it has to be the best Southwestern restaurant on the island and in the surrounding areas. Period! It’s just that good!

Below, photos of romantic candlelight (I HAVE to get some of these candle holders!), an impressive structural composition inside the establishment and live Ranchero Guitar music Wednesday through Saturday evenings on the open-air, climate controlled Rooftop Cantina upstairs with the mighty star-filled heavens above.

We love getting to a Rooftop Cantina seat at the restaurant about a half hour before the colors of the setting sun start to paint the evening horizon with unforgettable hues of pink and orange and mauve…ah, sunsets. And they’re even better at Santa Fe Cafe! If you’re more of the indoorsy type, the candle-lit ambiance continues there also. An open Chef’s Counter is displayed for your viewing enjoyment there. Either area, you’ll absolutely LOVE this place!

Colorful House Made Tortilla Chips, Savory Salsa and Cadillac Margaritas

The Cadillac margaritas are a classic tradition we enjoy each time we visit the establishment. Freshly made, chilled perfectly and an experience for your taste buds is what you’ll experience with one of these. Have a few with the complimentary colorful chips and house made salsa and you’ve scored a major win.

Guacamole El Molcajete

Love guacamole? If you haven’t tried Santa Fe Cafe’s Guacamole En Molcajete, then you just haven’t lived! This concoction possesses a secret recipe that will not be given out for anything by the chef or anyone working at the establishment for that matter. (Trust us, we tried!) Creamy, chunky, chilled and outright sensational, this rendition of guacamole is certainly one we cannot forget easily. We especially love the presentation in the mortar and pestle-style dish and the creative and elaborate presentation. Made with fresh avocados, chilies, onions and lime, this starter ($8) is large enough to share and perfect to indulge in all on your own. Just go ahead and own the guacamole here, because it’s well worth it!

Painted Desert Soup

This corn and red pepper soup with ancho chile cream is…well, it’s just picturesque! I had real trouble actually eating it when it was served to me because it was so beautiful. But beware, because after one bite, you’ll find yourself devouring the entire bowl. This tasty, perfectly-temperatured serving of stunning culinary artistry is perfect on a fall evening while sitting upstairs outside on the Rooftop Cantina dining area of the restaurant. I’m actually craving a bowl of it while I write this right now!

Santa Fe Cafe Grouper Entree

The Santa Fe Cafe Grouper Entree ($30) is one of those “favorites” adored by the locals of Hilton Head Island. I know my husband and I have enjoyed it on several occasions ourselves. It’s composed of an excellently presented filet of fresh delicate grouper with chipotle Parmesan au gratin atop Mexican rice and Southwestern vegetables. Simply amazing! And quite obviously, an enjoyable display of the talents of those behind the scenes in the Santa Fe Cafe kitchen.

Mesquite Grilled Lamb Chops

Like lamb chops? Well, then you’re going to LOVE them at Santa Fe Cafe! Look at the above picture. I mean, seriously?!? Creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes compliment this tasteful dish atop a colorful cranberry chipotle sauce with Southwestern vegetables. The meticulously hand-selected lamb chops are placed right on top of it all. This is what perfection looks like! For a fair $34, this entree really delivers. And it tastes even better than it looks, which is pretty fantastic.

Santa Fe Plato Combination

This is one of my personal favorites…the Santa Fe Plato Combination. A goat’s cheese (love my goat’s cheese) chile relleno served with a sweet corn tamale and a wild mushroom and red chile cheese enchilada. (I’m seriously thinking about booking a direct flight to Hilton Head Island right now to get one of these!) This is an all-encompassing flavor-packed experience. I’ve enjoyed it multiple times because it was so memorable. The goat’s cheese chile relleno? Come on! Are you kidding? Deliciousness to the twentieth power. And the delicate sweet corn tamale? Who wouldn’t love this? For an easy $21 at dinner, I was more than pleased with the presentation and crazy delicious flavor.

Outrageous Chimichanga

Named for the outrageously incredible flavor this dish packs, the Outrageous Chimichanga ($23) isn’t only sizable, but delivers a sensational performance in terms of taste and satisfaction. Outrageous it is. Outrageously incredible! Tender beef, savory chicken, fresh black beans, melty cheese, sour cream, onions…..(hold on, we’re still going)…and tomatoes wrapped in a sun-dried tomato tortilla and perfectly fried to a pastry exterior, this entree is served over a green and red chile sauce, which accentuates the savory meat and vegetables all joined together by gooey hot cheese. Yum!

Spanish Churros

Who doesn’t love churros? Originally enjoyed in Mexico and Argentina, these sweet bites eventually spread to America and were famously enjoyed by all. Santa Fe Cafe serves these with a beautiful presentation of whipped cream, fresh strawberries and a chocolate and strawberry sauce underneath it all. A simple, yet gratifying dessert to finish off an already amazing Southwestern meal.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: From the conversation-piece statues outside as you walk toward the front entrance to the open Chef’s Counter indoors to the Rooftop Cantina where patrons can dine beneath the stars amidst candlelight and listen to live Ranchero Guitar music, Santa Fe Cafe delivers multiple enjoyments for everyone.

FOOD / DRINK: Fresh ingredients presented with meticulous creativity by a skilled kitchen staff who really love what they do.

LOCATION: Santa Fe Cafe is located at 807 William Hilton Parkway on Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.

HOURS: The restaurant is available for Lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM – 2 PM. Dinner is served nightly from 5 PM – 11 PM. Reservations are strongly recommended.

SERVICE / STAFF: From the knowledgeable bartenders crafting superb libations to excellent attitudes and care from the servers to a pleasant overall feel about the teamwork ethic incorporated throughout the establishment among the employees, there’s nothing unsatisfactory we can report here.

PRICE / VALUE: The restaurant cuisine is upscale, the service is very satisfactory and the cuisine is outstanding. We’re always happy with the value we receive for the cost of dinner here.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (843) 785-3838, Website: www.santafecafeofhiltonhead.com

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per 750ml bottle.

PARKING: There is ample complimentary self parking in the lot at the restaurant.

TOTAL BILL: Our dinner bills have never exceeded $80 for the two of us unless we has others in our party. No complaints here. We’re happy to pay a bit more for what we receive at this terrific island establishment.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

VERANDAH RESTAURANT @ FOUR SEASONS RESORT LAS VEGAS… “Pool View Dining at Four Seasons Resort Las Vegas!”

Posted on October 7, 2012 by savo0429

The Four Seasons Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada is home to an impressive fine dining Italian restaurant…Verandah. This lushly landscaped pool view establishment will take your taste buds for a ride and satisfy even the most discriminative tastes craving fine Italian cuisine.

The restaurant decor and ambiance is that of an upscale clubby, yet relaxed environment. Chic lighting overhead and furniture in calming hues create a tranquility throughout the establishment, while the staff stands out on its own with the care and attention to detail that only a Four Seasons Resort venue can offer.

Fresh sliced warm bread is served with imported olive oil and sea salt before each meal. Below, my husband and I indulged in a couple of glasses of rose’ Champagne before ordering our dinner selections.

My husband was in the mood for steak. That’s all he had on his mind for the entirety of the day. That’s what he wanted, so that’s what he was going to get this particular evening. But he did start with a bowl of Verandah’s deliciously creamy tomato soup, which was delightfully garnished with a house made bread stick…

Tomato Soup With House Made Bread Twist

The soup was deliciously satisfying. I know, because I ate almost half of it! I’m a sucker for a fabulous soup, and this was definitely a great one.

Below, I chose to partake in the restaurant’s Tasting Menu of the moment, starting with a first course of the Il Mare Ligure, which was an antipasti containing grilled shrimp, calamari, scallops and summer vegetables with sweet heirloom tomatoes and a black fig sorbet. Such an intriguing combination of flavors…

Il Mare Ligure

For my main course, I ordered the Pansotti Genovese, which was Chef Antonio’s “Pansotti” pasta with a white Bolognese, red pepper mousseline and Cacio cheese. This selection was meaty without being too filling like most pasta presentations, which I appreciated. The white Bolognese was also a switch for me, but a nicely appreciated change, I must admit. The visual appearance of this dish was also quite stimulating, as it seemed extremely artistic to me as well as delicious to the taste.

Pansotti Genovese

My husband’s steak was brought to the table…and he was a happy man, I must say. As was I a happy girl, because he shared it with me! This had to be one of the top five best filets we have ever enjoyed. It was tender, cooked perfectly to our specifications, visually appealing and aromatically sensational. Not to mention the flavor…wow! If you’re in Vegas, this could be one of the best spots to enjoy a fantastic filet. So keep Verandah at the Four Seasons at the top of your list for that!

12-Ounce Filet Mignon With Fresh Steamed Asparagus

Alongside the steak, an order of tender green steamed asparagus was ordered and received. You can see by the photo above that they were perfectly cooked and a vibrant hue upon arriving at our table. Additionally, the filet mignon was a perfect medium temperature and we enjoyed every sensational bite.

Fresh Peach Gratin

I welcomed a third course from the tasting menu I chose, and received the Fresh Peach Gratin for dessert. Of course, I shared this with my husband because I simply had no more room for anything other than a couple of bites of this sumptuous temptation. The Vin Santo poached peaches were marvelous, while the Amaretto Sabayon and Pistachio Gelato were a refreshing touch.

A little after-dinner coffee is always an appreciated item after a wonderful meal for my husband. I especially loved the silver retro-styled coffee carafes the restaurant served their hot beverage from.

Though not our first time at Verandah, this was the first time I photographed enough of our amazing dining experience to write an article about it. We hope to return again soon, as we thoroughly enjoyed our involvement at this fine Italian restaurant.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Modern touches with traditional comforts. A full bar with every request one can imagine fulfilled by courteous bartenders. Dim romantic allure and a sophisticated ambiance overall.

FOOD / DRINK: Exceptional cuisine prepared expertly by Chef Antonio and his staff that will leave you spellbound. Cocktails and wine selections offered are well recommended as well.

LOCATION: Verandah restaurant is located on the first floor of the Four Seasons Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada at 3960 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas, Nevada
89119.

HOURS: Monday through Friday from 6:30AM – 11AM, Breakfast Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00AM -11AM, Breakfast Buffet Saturdays and Sundays from 8AM – 1PM, Lunch every day from 11:30AM – 3PM, Afternoon Tea Monday through Friday from 3PM – 4PM, Dinner every day from 5PM – 10PM. The Verandah Bar is open every day from 12 Noon – 10PM. *Afternoon Tea requires 24-hour advance notice. On Saturday and Sunday, afternoon tea is served for private parties only.

SERVICE / STAFF: We were extremely pleased with how the staff accommodated us during our visit.

PRICE / VALUE: Very satisfactory. Exquisite preparation of our meals, complimentary customer service from our server and an ambiance that was chic, relaxing and elegant.

CORKAGE FEE: $25 per 750ml bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (702) 632 – 5121, Website: www.fourseasons.com

PARKING: Valet service is available to care for your vehicle while dining at Verandah.

TOTAL BILL: Our total bill including the tasting menu, two glasses of Champagne, a side of steamed asparagus, a bowl of tomato soup, a 12-ounce Filet Mignon and after-dinner coffee came in over $120, but was by far so well worth the splurge!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

TALAVERA @ FOUR SEASONS RESORT SCOTTSDALE… “Arizona Restaurant Week and Continuous Culinary Excellence!”

Posted on October 2, 2012 by savo0429

Executive Chef Mel Mecinas and Executive Sous Chef Jesse Hansen are continuing to prove that their intended vision of culinary excellence at Talavera restaurant is high on their list of priorities. As participants in Arizona’s popular Restaurant Week, we were once again baffled by their intriguing offerings and distinctive artistry in the Talavera kitchen.

Arizona Restaurant Week presents the cuisine of some of the top culinary artists in the state each year and a chance to showcase several restaurants to the public with a list of tasting menus that offer substantial flavor, creative presentation, and proven quality provided at $20, $30 and $40 per person that entice even the most critical gastronomes. We thought we would join in the fun and both select dinner items from Talavera’s tasting menu. What we experienced was instant gratification at first bite, an eye-catching exhibition of colorful courses, and layer upon layer of flavor.

Upon arriving at the restaurant, we were courteously shown to our table outside overlooking the foothills of Pinnacle Peak. It was warm, but the slight breeze that whispered every now and again took care of that. Candles were lit in molded glass holders and their flames danced well into the evening hours as our servers, Susan and Josh, arrived to greet us, and proved to be extremely courteous and well-informed on every aspect of the restaurant.

Above, we reminisced about our last visit to the restaurant by indulging in Talavera’s melt-in-your-mouth soft rolls and creamy butter. It also never hurts to start a meal off with a couple of glasses of Champagne as you peruse the Talavera menu beneath twinkling stars overhead.

Albacore Tuna Carpaccio

My husband started with the Albacore Tuna Carpaccio with huge chunks of perfectly salted pork belly that Chef Mel and Chef Jesse call Pork Belly “Croutons”. Also included in this presentation are proud caper berries standing at attention, and delicate Dijon sprouts. The combination of the chilled mild fish with the cured pork belly accents was a meticulous contrast, while the smooth creamy taste of avocado rounded off the entire dish.

Black Mission Fig & Mesa Ranch Goat’s Cheese Salad

For my first course, I chose the salad selection encompassing stunning Spanish Black Mission figs, grated Mesa Ranch goat cheese, baby spinach and a sherry vinaigrette. The vibrant spinach leaves are stacked high, just like the rock formations of the Sonoran desert, while the grated cheese resembles newly fallen snow. The perfect imagery from Chef Mecinas and Chef Jesse on a warm evening that transferred exceptionally well.

‘Crab Louis’ and Iconoclast Chardonnay Tastings

We were extremely honored that Chef Mel and Erica Stoltenberg (Assistant Manager of Talavera) stopped by our table to personally thank us for returning. Additionally, we savored each bite of the ‘Crab Louis’ tastings that were sent out to us as a special treat before our main courses arrived, along with tastings of Iconoclast Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon throughout the course of our meal.

Iconoclast wines are exclusive to Four Seasons Resorts and cannot be purchased elsewhere. It is made exclusively for the hotel chain. The Iconoclast Chardonnay, made by Alderbrook Winery is a 2010 Russian River Valley vintage that is described by the vintner as being “aged for nine months in French oak revealing hints of apple pie spice with crisp acidity, citrus aromas and perfect balance, while epitomizing the highest quality of Russian River Chardonnay.” Additionally, the 2009 Stag’s Leap District Iconoclast Cabernet Sauvignon made by Chimney Rock Winery is perfectly explained again by the vintner as having “rich, bold, dark fruit flavors and hints of baking spice from twenty months of aging in French oak, adding a remarkably long smooth finish and lush texture.”

Iconoclast Cabernet Sauvignon Tastings

King Salmon

Our Second Course picks were artful accomplishments. Above and below, I chose the King Salmon entree with green lentils, bacon, sweet garlic and cauliflower. Expertly prepared, the delicate, yet rich flavor of the salmon accompanied by the vegetable conglomeration beneath it was an excellent choice.

King Salmon

My husband elected the Bison Short Ribs for his main course. Fall-off-the-bone tender beef joined with crab whipped potatoes (yes, we said crab whipped potatoes!) and a horseradish and mushroom demi-glace. Mere words cannot do justice to the astonishing flavor and texture of this dish. But at Talavera, we’ve learned not to expect anything less.

Bison Short Ribs

Dessert is always a fun and imaginative experience at Talavera. Below, I was dazzled by the Cherry Chocolate Baked Alaska with Port Cherries presentation…

Cherry Chocolate Baked Alaska with Port Cherries

Deep layers of flavor sensations were involved in this divine creation. Equally beautiful to behold as it was to devour slowly and happily, I found it to be intriguing and artfully executed. Definitely NOT your typical Baked Alaska, this stunning rendition layered decadent chocolate between sorbet and ice cream then was finished with a fluffy meringue crown and port-soaked cherries alongside.

Flamebrulee with Lemon Poppy Fritter

For an additional bite of tempting items on the menu, my husband selected the Flamebrulee for his final course. Madagascar Creme Brulee afire beside a vibrant tower of fresh seasonal fruit and a lemon poppy fritter. Just marvelous!

Talavera most definitely stands high on our list of favorite fine dining restaurants. Breathtaking views, striking culinary presentations, and impressive flavor beyond belief keeps us returning every time. But then we shouldn’t be surprised about that, should we? This is Talavera.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The establishment and its unmatched views across a Sonoran backdrop will whisk you away from your current concerns to a place of vibrant hues, relaxed elegance and culinary delight.

FOOD / DRINK: If you haven’t yet tried the Iconoclast wines at Talavera, we highly recommend you do. Made specifically for Four Seasons Resorts, you will not be disappointed by the Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon we tried and enjoyed thoroughly.

LOCATION: Talavera is located inside the Four Seasons Resort at Troon North at 10600 East Crescent Moon Drive in Scottsdale, Arizona 85263.

HOURS: Dinner at Talavera is available from 5:30PM – 9:30PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Susan and Josh served us this visit to the restaurant and couldn’t have been more courteous or well-informed about the menu and wines. We thank them for their hospitality and for their ongoing professionalism.

PRICE / VALUE: Unparalleled value, uncompromising quality and unmistakable excellence in cuisine, service and ambiance.

CORKAGE FEE: Outside alcohol is not permitted inside Talavera.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (480) 513-5085, Website: www.talaverarestaurant.com

PARKING: Valet attendants are available to assist with the parking of your vehicle.

TOTAL BILL: We enjoyed two glasses of the Moët et Chandon, ‘Rose’ NV Epernay Champagne ($16/glass) before ordering, while each tasting menu was available for $40 each.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

* * Special Thanks: We would like to thank the entire staff at Talavera for a memorable evening. Specifically Chef Mel Mecinas, Chef Jesse Hansen and Erica Stoltenberg for your incredible generosity and outstanding hospitality that was shown to us. We greatly appreciate each and every one of you, and feel honored to have been made to feel like part of the Talavera family!

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.

FLIGHT… “Not Just Walking In Memphis Anymore…We’re Dining There!”

Posted on September 6, 2012 by savo0429

Memphis,Tennesee is commonly known for three major B’s…BEAL STREET, BARBEQUE and for being the home of the BLUES. We have to add another B to the list..how does the BEST restaurant we’ve been to in the city sound? Flight is a restaurant and wine bar offering an incredibly creative concept to their meal presentations…flights. Despite the aviation theme you will witness as you enter the main threshold, the realization of just why this establishment is named what it is named is really in the initial service of the cuisine. Available in traditional main portioned entrees, Flight also served ‘flights’ of most everything in this restaurant. A clever spin on traditional portions, ordering the ‘flight’-style items will allow you a chance to sample a bit of everything you order.

The establishment offers al fresco dining alongside the sidewalk as well as inside. A canopy hangs overhead on the patio area to shade diners from the sun with some assistance from nearby trees. Above, the patio area, an image of the restaurant logo on the front door and a side view at night.

Conveniently located on a corner of South Main Street where the trolley frequently passes by, Flight is a restaurant and wine bar featuring culinary creations from Chef Thomas Slukenborg that will have you wondering why you never tried this place before. The interior decor is intriguing with an upstairs loft-like section connected by a staircase beside the bar. High ceilings invite a roomy feel, while a coziness and comfort invite you into this sophisticated and elegant establishment.

The photos above display the first floor view of the lounge area from our table for two, a wall shelved with unlimited bottles of wine, a descending stairwell descending from the upstairs level, our menu and the beautiful wood and glassed-in front entry and chandelier hanging above happy patrons and satisfied diners.

Flight is known for their ‘flights’ of wines, among other items. However, we went for both the flight-style items as we’ll as for full servings. Above, a couple of glasses of a delicious Cabernet that we frequently enjoy when dining out started us off on the right path before ordering dinner.Don’t think the folks at Flight don’t know wine, because they were awarded the 2011 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. That says it all right there!

Salad Flight

We were hungry and ready to indulge on this particular evening. So to start, we ordered a Salad Flight to share, which offered proportionate tastes of three salads…a specialty salad of the evening (with red onions, arugula and an onion-based vinaigrette), the classic Baby Iceberg Salad (with Maytag Blue Cheese, apple wood smoked bacon and grape tomatoes) and a Strawberry Salad with red onion, sweet sliced strawberries and macadamia nuts on a bed of arugula.

The ‘Cut of the Day’ (Filet Mignon) With Truffled Macaroni and Asparagus

For our dinner entrees, we both chose the Filet Mignon with a delectable sinfully tasty truffled macaroni and cheese and a charred tomato demi-glace. The photo above is merely a glimpse of how incredible this tender, perfectly-prepared beef was. How about melt-in-your-mouth fabulousness! With us enjoying the Salad Flight and each indulging in our own Filet Mignon with creamy truffled mac & cheese, there really was no room for dessert. Instead, we each enjoyed a couple more glasses of wine and called it a night. Both happily stuffed, loving the romantic and intimate ambiance inside the restaurant and thrilled that we gave the place a chance in the first place. We would have really missed out on such culinary splendor if we had passed it up for something else that evening. Boy, were we lucky!

The stunning ambiance, crafty artistry in the presentation of liquid treats and meticulously-plated, colorfully vibrant cuisine, terrific service from our server and a romantic and comfortable atmosphere made Flight a winner on our SavorHour.com list for our favorite restaurant in Memphis!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Beautifully touched with an aviation theme upon entering, the realization of the name becomes evident when you receive your menu. Meals are available in “flight-style”, which allow for a sampling of most anything you can think of. The intimate and romantic environment both inside and on the front patio is relaxing and welcoming.

FOOD / DRINK: Wonderful, delicious, memorable and uniquely served in “flight-style” portions as well as traditional full entree sizes.

LOCATION: Conveniently located at 39 South Main Street in Memphis, TN 38103

HOURS: Flight is available for service Monday through Saturday from 11AM – 3AM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Extraordinary service and attention to detail, kind demeanor and skilled in superior customer service.

PRICE / VALUE: For having paid in excess of $160 for a few extremely amazing glasses of wine, a salad flight and two unbelievably delicious Filet Mignon entrees, we believe that the value of what we received between the quality of the service, the cuisine and the general ambiance was astoundingly acceptable.

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (901) 521-8005, Webiste: www.flightmemphis.com

PARKING: Valet parking is complimentary every night at Flight.

TOTAL BILL: Our total bill came in just over $170 (including tax) for a few very nice glasses of wine, the salad flight, and two incredible Filet Mignon Entrees. Well worth the splurge, worth the visit and well worth returning again!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

FLYING SAUCER DRAUGHT EMPORIUM… “A Great Downtown Gastropub!”

Posted on September 2, 2012 by savo0429

If you’re ever in downtown Little Rock, Arkansas, and you’re a beer aficionado, this is the place for you to enjoy 75 brews on tap and more than 200 bottled, a select collection of wines, an agreeable liquor offering and some pretty decent edibles in addition to the traditional pub food selections. We stumbled upon Flying Saucer in an effort to grab a quick bite and a couple of cocktails with friends and family in the area while in town on business for my husband, and what we found was an assimilation of smiling patrons, a very lively atmosphere and the aroma of roast beef sandwiches and fresh pretzels being baked and plated wafting from the kitchen as we entered through the front door.

Located in the middle of downtown Little Rock, Arkansas in the River Market section of the city, this casual establishment caters to the sports bar lover. Seating options include sofas, spots at the large bar and traditional table seating in the middle of the restaurant. Additionally, enormous projector screens lower from the ceiling for sports games for visitors to enjoy.

We love the establishment’s direct approach to straightforward customer feedback as advertised on the drink coasters on tables inside the restaurant. Take a look at what it says below…good or bad, they want to know what their customers really think…

You’ll be seeing saucers when you enter this unique and lively establishment…literally! Because there are plates attached to every inch of wall and ceiling space available! Yes…we said plates on the ceiling! That was definitely a first for us…

We were told that if you join Flying Saucer’s UFO Club for $15, you will be presented with a t-shirt, free entry access and a membership card with which you can keep track of the number of brews you consume. In fact, once a member drinks the 200th beer (there’s a 3-beer limit per day that you can log on the membership card), their name and infamous date of the drinking of the 200th brew is put onto a plate and hung on the wall proudly called the “Ring of Honor”. Now beer is not our thing, but we did feel this was an interesting concept to offer. There are also several popular specials on different nights such as ‘Pint Night’ on Mondays, when you can purchase a select pint of beer for just $2.75. Tuesday evenings are reserved for Trivia Night, while on Wednesdays we were informed that you can buy your beer glass for $1 more!

Gastropub? You could call it that. Besides the usual bar food like wings, nachos and pizza, Flying Saucer also serves hummus with pita bread and prides themselves on their German-style fare such as their fresh-baked soft pretzels and bratwurst creations as well as their sandwiches and fresh salads. And, obviously, their many craft beer selections and brews from nearly every corner of the world.

The portions served are larger than your normal pub selections for the price. The below Saucer Dipster ($8.49), a seasoned roast beef sandwich with melted Swiss cheese and horseradish mayo on a hoagie roll was served with a flavorsome au jus on the side for dipping. All hot sandwiches are served with your choice of fries, hot German potato salad or a side salad…

Saucer Dipster With Fries

Another item ordered at our table was the Reuben-Esque ($8.29), which was piled high with pastrami, jalapeno-kraut, melted Swiss cheese and Thousand Island dressing on a toasted Marbled Rye bread. With this sandwich, a side salad was chosen to accompany it.

Reuben-Esque

The other two of us ordered the same thing…the Grilled Chicken Breast & Greens Salad ($8.49),which was a delightful, filling and visually appealing presentation of everything I love in a salad. Created with mixed greens, Roma tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions and Italian cheeses, this selection was a hit…

Grilled Chicken Breast & Greens Salad

Overall, our experience was acceptable. Other than the environment getting a bit loud at a point during our meal, we enjoyed the unique surroundings, informed and intelligent staff and jovial attitude of other patrons around us.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Plates, plates and more plates! A massively long bar running the length of the restaurant and if you’re lucky enough to snag a spot in the front, we noticed several people just sitting and enjoying the breeze and passers by through the open front of the establishment. The place stayed busy from the moment we arrive to the time we left.

FOOD / DRINK: Fresh-made crisp salads, delicious sandwiches and rejuvenating refreshments from the bar.

LOCATION: Flying Saucer is located at 323 President Clinton Avenue in Little Rock, AR 72201.

HOURS: Monday through Thursday from 11AM to 1AM, Fridays from 11AM-2AM,Saturdays from 11AM -1AM and Sundays from 11AM – Midnight.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was kind and knowledgeable about the menu and drink menu.

PRICE / VALUE: Extremely reasonable prices on pretty tasty selections. We enjoyed the salads and hot sandwiches and a few cocktails and glasses of wine and everyone in our party was of the same mind in that the food was agreeable, the ambiance was lively and festive and the beverages were chilled to perfection and refreshing.

CORKAGE FEE: No outside alcohol is allowed inside this establishment.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (501) 372-8032, Website: www.beerknurd.com

PARKING: We found ample metered street parking a block away, then just took a stroll down the sidewalk until we got to Flying Saucer

TOTAL BILL: Our total bill for two hot sandwich plates, two chicken salads and a couple of rounds of cocktails came to a little over $60. Worth the splurge for reasonably-priced fare in a lively atmosphere and a terrific place to watch “the game” if you’re not in the comfort of your own home.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

PARADISO 37 @ DISNEY’S PLEASURE ISLAND… “A Pre-Celebratory Drink Turns Into a Full Dinner!”

Posted on August 30, 2012 by savo0429

My husband and I had to meet an associate of his for a celebratory drink. They had just closed a fairly large deal during one of the many meetings they had attended in Orlando together. We decided to keep it to a minimum since we were having a formal celebration the next evening, so after a few drinks together with the others, my husband and I decided we would just nibble a little while there. We all met at Paradiso 37-Taste of the Americas, a Latin American waterfront restaurant inside Downtown Disney’s Pleasure Island.

It was after dark by the time my husband and I caught up with his associate and his wife and children. They had the right idea…have meetings in Orlando….have the family enjoy themselves in the parks and other offerings Mickey has to offer while you’re in said meetings all day. Smart. Being in an off-resort hotel a few minutes away, this excursion was a refreshing venture and even brought the kid out in both of us a little.

Our waiter told us that Paradiso 37 got its name from the one-of-a-kind tequila tower bar above, which encases 37 different varieties of tequila. From our outside table, the view of the tower bar was intriguing and colorful to admire. Not a huge lover of tequila, I do find myself indulging once in a while in a great margarita…

Signature Paradiso 37 Margarita

The above libation was not only vibrant in color, but also as amazing a margarita I had ever remembered experiencing in my life. Our server convinced me that this Signature Paradiso 37 Margarita with a pear nectar enhancement would be a definite winner. I concurred and was delighted by the result placed before me. In fact, I had two of these stunning libations!

Hmmm…what to have…what to have. My husband and I just wanted a little something to nibble on since we were enjoying Paradiso 37′s margaritas and we wound up being very bad. We ordered fried food! But delicious it was indeed. Below, the Caribbean Crab & Fish Fritters…

Caribbean Crab and Fish Fritters

Loving the presentation of this succulent treat, we also appreciated the tender combination of crab meat, shrimp, fish, peppers and cilantro inside the crunchy fried-to-perfection exterior of each one of these delectable morsels. Served with a chilled coconut-lime dipping sauce ($8.99), these savory and scrumptious bites were satisfying and filling at the same time.

Somehow a third margarita appeared in front of me, so my husband and I just decided to order a couple of light entrees since we had been drinking more than we planned. (It was a pre-celebratory occasion anyway, right?)

We ordered two of Paradiso 37′s signature specials recommended by our server…the Baha Fish Taco entree and the Paradiso 37 Burrito Plate…

Baha Fish Taco Entree

The above beautifully-arranged items composed the Baha Fish Taco entree. My husband ordered this dish, and devoured it happily. The sectioned dinner plate it was served on showed off the soft flour tortilla-encased taco ingredients of lightly-fried seasonal fish, roasted corn salsa, lime crema (a rich, slightly sour, lightly-thickened cream used in Mexican cooking resembling a thin sour cream), spicy slaw and a tortilla salad ($14.99).

I love a great burrito! Therefore, I chose the Paradiso 37 Burrito Plate with succulent beef in a flour tortilla joined by sauteed peppers, squash, red onions, imported cheeses, sweet chipotle BBQ sauce, then added in a generous portion was a pile of cilantro rice and black beans beside it ($14.99). I LOVED the cilantro rice. It was light, had a great taste, and the light green hue was impressive and distinct. The burrito itself was juicy, full of sensational flavor and I seemed to be in some sort of complacent heaven once I finished it.

Paradiso 37 Burrito Plate

After our ‘only drinks’ theory turned into a lovely meal with our dinner companions, the only thing left to do was drive back to our hotel and prepare for our next evening out. But Paradiso 37 was a real treat for us. Upscale Latin fare for extremely reasonable prices right on the waterfront. And we were even serenaded by a vocalist playing a guitar off to one side of the patio!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Colorful and intriguing use of space both indoors and outside on the expansive patio. Live entertainment and refreshing breezes are a welcoming experience when dining out of doors, while the Tower Bar, both inside and outside of the restaurant develops conversation among dining patrons.

FOOD / DRINK: Delicious, fresh and vibrantly-colorful presentations are appreciated at this establishment. Stunning flavorful cocktails…especially their margaritas…are prepared with care and proudly served.

LOCATION: Paradiso 37 is located within Downtown Disney’s Pleasure Island at 1590 East Buena Vista Drive in Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830.

HOURS: Sunday through Thursday from 11:30AM – 12AM, then on Friday and Saturday from 11:30AM – 1AM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our server was friendly, efficient, kept us laughing and gave us reliable suggestions about what we should try on the menu.

PRICE / VALUE: Slightly higher than if off the Disney property, but hey, it’s Disney…there’s always a premium at the park. But we were fine with paying a little more for the service and quality food, service and atmosphere we enjoyed.

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (407) 934-3702, Website: www.paradiso37.com

PARKING: We experienced complimentary parking in the spacious lot in front of Pleasure Island, which allows easy access to the main entrance of this particular section of Disney World. Valet parking is also available for a small fee.

TOTAL BILL: For two entrees, four margaritas and an appetizer, our total bill came in a bit over $60 (including tax), which was fine considering what a great time we had, what terrific cuisine we enjoyed, what exceptional service we were rendered and the great location of the restaurant on the waterfront.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

TALAVERA @ FOUR SEASONS RESORT SCOTTSDALE… “All-Embracing Views of the Sonoran Desert!”

Posted on August 26, 2012 by savo0429

Named for a variation of vibrantly-hued, hand-painted Mexican earthenware, Talavera presents an area-inspired selection of dishes from elite offerings of beef to the finest poultry and game options to a diverse assortment of seafood. You will be astonished by the breathtaking scopic landscape from Talavera’s second story perch overlooking the Sonoran Desert from the foothills of Pinnacle Peak as you indulge in elegance and comfort while Chef Mel Mecinas envelopes your senses with his culinary creativeness.

The entry to Talavera is craftily tucked away into a corner of the Four Seasons Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. As you walk through the lounge past the Onyx Bar, a doorway bordered by heavy drapes on each side hints at what lies ahead. Once at the hostess podium, brightly-colored candle holders, hand-sewn rugs and dramatic candlelight welcome you into this oasis of incredible taste, culinary excellence and breathtaking scenery.

A creative blend of contemporary and classic characteristics are woven into the decor of the restaurant. The coloration includes the stunning hues of the Sonoran Desert in bloom, while the entire design was inspired by the southwest. Above, (counterclockwise from top left photo), a cushioned booth inside the establishment, brilliantly-colored art on a restaurant wall, free standing tables awaiting patrons and two views of a separate room for special wine tastings and reserved private occasions.

Speaking of wine, Talavera offers a compendious array of Australian wines. Ask your server to suggest one of these superior-flavored beverages to compliment your meal, and you’re sure to have the perfect evening feast. The photos above show a glass of one of the Australian wines I enjoyed before dinner, the signature La Pina Loca martini (with pineapple-infused tequila, mango and orange), the cover of the Onyx bar menu and the water that is served to each table with fresh cucumber, lemon and lime slices.

Above, the fresh-out-the-oven perfectly browned rolls served right in the cast iron skillet they were baked in with a little creamy butter. These were as delicious as they look in this photo. And their fresh-baked aroma was simply heavenly.

Executive Sous Chef Jesse Hansen was at the helm in the kitchen the evening we visited Talavera, and he most certainly did not disappoint. Below, we started our meal with the Foie Gras ‘PB&J’ ($16), which consisted of seared buttery foie gras joined by a generous portion of apricot jam and a pecan butter brioche “sandwich”. The combination of unexpected flavors were a real surprise, as my husband nor I had ever seen foie gras combined with such distinct tastes. But what a reward this was, as we enjoyed the flavors of “pecan butter and apricot jam” alongside the succulent foie gras more than we could have imagined.

Foie Gras ‘PB&J’

The preparation of the Iceberg Wedge Salad ($14) was a sight to behold. With avocado, lump crab meat, local organic vegetables, smoked bacon cubes and enormous chunks of blue cheese topped by crispy onion strings, who could want more in a salad? The presentation alone was awe-inspiring…

Iceberg Wedge Salad

For my main course, I chose the 8-ounce Hanger Steak ($26) with creamed onions and chimichurri. The chimichurri was not in the least bit spicy, which I appreciated. The creamed onions were full of flavor, while the scrumptious slices of tender beef were the highlight of my meal, cooked to perfection and bursting with savory goodness. Hands down, one of the best hanger steak preparations I’ve had in a long time. And I really loved the straight-from-the-oven presentation with this entree being served in the skillet it was cooked in!

8-Ounce Hanger Steak with Creamed Onions and Chimichurri

My husband’s selection was the Kurobata Pork Chop ($30) with caramelized peaches and a mouthwatering mustard sauce. Just the presentation of this offering alone could force a smile across any diner’s features! The juicy meat and pleasant non-spicy sauce created the perfect blend of zesty and sweet from the caramelized peaches and mustard base of the topping.

14-Ounce Kurobata Pork Chop with Caramelized Peaches and Mustard Sauce

We moved outside for dessert. I enjoyed another glass of wine and admired the unique and colorful candle holders that adorned each table. Below, the beautiful pastels and darker hues that make each of these special unto themselves. Outside, the candles glowed through the glass, creating a romantic and mystical feel.

Dessert-wise, I was leaning more toward the healthy side, while my husband was trying to persuade me toward the chocolate decadent side of the menu. So we did what anyone reviewing a terrific restaurant would do…we got both!

Fresh Seasonal Berries with Frozen Yogurt

Refreshing, healthy, sweet seasonal berries topped with a scoop of homemade frozen vanilla yogurt was just what I had in mind. No guilt here. That was until I took a bite of the sweet temptation my husband ordered…

Valrhona Chocolate Souffle with Vanilla Sauce

…okay, maybe I was opting for a healthy dessert, but once I took a bite of this ensanely self-indulgent souffle, I found myself finishing more than half of it! I had indeed been corrupted.

After finishing our meal, my husband had a couple of cups of coffee that were served to him in the above contemporary-style off-center saucer and cup compilation. Along with that, we were presented with additional sugary treats…peanut-dipped, chocolate-covered, cheesecake lollipops standing atop a horizontally-sliced chunk of laminated wood. Pretty creative presentation! And a pretty impressive dining experience altogether.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Colorful decor inspired by the blooming Sonoran Desert, cozy seating options and an intimate interior and exterior perfect for a lovely evening.

FOOD / DRINK: Savory wines, creative signature cocktails from the Onyx Bar and delectable and innovative creations from Chef Mecinas will leave you with a smile on your face and a delightful feeling in your soul.

LOCATION: Talavera is located within the Four Seasons Resort (Scottsdale at Troon North) at 10600 East Crescent Moon Drive in Scottsdale, AZ 85263.

HOURS: Dinner is available daily from 5:30PM – 9:30PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Delightful service and attentive staff.

PRICE / VALUE: For what we were presented with…creatively-engineered culinary presentations with outstanding memorable flavor sensations…we were extremely satisfied with what we got for the money. Great value, terrific quality and a definite “must repeat” meal.

CORKAGE FEE: No outside bottles of alcohol are allowed in the restaurant.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (480) 513-5085, Website: www.talaverarestaurant.com

PARKING: Our vehicle was parked on property while we were staying at the resort. However, if you are visiting just for dinner, the hotel valet service can park your vehicle for you while you dine.

TOTAL BILL: Our bill came to over $150, which included three cocktails, an appetizer, a salad, two entrees, two desserts and coffee.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

BESO STEAKHOUSE @ CITY CENTER… “I’ll Have Another Sangria, Please!”

Posted on August 18, 2012 by savo0429

UNFORTUNATELY, THIS RESTAURANT IS NOW CLOSED.

The name simply means ‘kiss’. And the experience will virtually overwhelm your senses. Tucked within City Center in Las Vegas among the magnificent Crystals Shopping Plaza, you will find Beso…a Latin-infused steakhouse owned by Desperate Housewives star, Eva Longoria. What will you discover here? Try intrigue, romance, a supreme waitstaff, cutting edge cuisine and an ambiance so enthralling that you’ll think you’ve fallen into a dream. A very good dream.

The entire restaurant is phenomenal. From the prestigious exterior of the glass wall of windows to the luminous shimmering chandeliers dangling from the ceilings inside, this finely detailed dining establishment will envelope you with its unmistakable charm, its intimate setting and it’s obvious attatchment to all things beautiful.

Above, the cozy lounge beside a trendy back-lit bar is inviting and tempts patrons with delicious and unique cocktails and standard favorites, views of the enchanting interior of the restaurant decor, and a bright pop of color outside via the red lounge chairs on the Beso patio featuring outdoor heaters that possess the appearance of larger-than-life lamps!

Below, inside Beso in the main dining room, the back-lit bar as you enter the front door, another burst of ruby color in the open kitchen, the dramatic crystal chandeliers falling in cascades from the ceiling, and one of the cozy steakhouse-style booths along the perimeter of the dining room.

Below…the best white sangria I’ve ever experienced. The Pear & Elderflower Sangria ($15) at the Vegas Beso. I’ve enjoyed this light delightful cocktail on numerous occasion over the years, and it’s still the same crisp, alluring and seductive libation as it’s always been. Made with Sauvignon Blanc, St. Germaine Elderflower Liqueur, Cointreau, Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur, White Cranberry Juice and served over ice with a garnish of fresh mint, raspberries and blackberries. In a word…breathtaking. I especially LOVE the 24 ounce Bordeaux wine glass this refresher is served in. No wonder this is Beso’s number one selling cocktail in Vegas! Each trip we take to Vegas, this is a mandatory ‘to-do’ on our list. Even if we’re just having drinks there…I HAVE to have my Pear and Elderflower Sangria! It’s just not Vegas to me if I don’t.

Below, an interesting modern and tech-savvy approach to the traditional wine and champagne menu…it’s all on an iPad! How clever is that? We also indulged in warm fresh-baked bread and chilled butter while sipping on a couple of glasses of Champagne before ordering dinner.

Every last detail was pondered and carefully brought to fruition here. Take a look at the following photos of Beso’s cocktail napkin with it’s signature kiss imprint (I love this!), the black suede dinner menu covers that feel incredible when held, and of course, the Beso logo so craftily created in a classic scripted font…

Ready for something to soothe your appetite? Well, we’ve got you covered! Here, we ordered Beso’s Iceberg Wedge Salad ($11) and an order of the Guacamole ($10). The Iceberg Wedge was chilled and crisp with bacon, tomato, and Shaft’s Blue Cheese Dressing creatively presented. On the guacamole front, this is Eva Longoria’s signature recipe and is served in an oval container with thin crunchy tortilla chips.

Iceberg Wedge Salad & Eva Longoria’s Signature Guacamole

After having the Wedge Salad and the Guacamole as our appetizers, we decided to share the Chopped Salad before receiving our entrees. This incredible chopped salad was comprised of an Iceberg-Romaine mix, carrots, celery, avocado, cucumber and tomato then was tossed in a spectacular avocado dressing and topped with crumbly cheese and tortilla strips. Trust us…you can definitely split this amply-portioned item.

Beso Chopped Salad

My husband enjoyed the Sesame Crusted Halibut ($36). Served with grilled cactus relish, spring onions and containing a mole sauce, this menu item offered a bit of heat to it. However, the succulent tender meat of the fish offered a savory flavor sensation with the cactus relish and spring onions as a whole.

Sesame Crusted Halibut

Sharing any of the sides here is definitely a good idea, as they are enormous in size. Below, we ordered the Au Gratin Potatoes, and this massive dish of cheesy goodness appeared before us…

Au Gratin Potatoes

I decided on the Pan Roasted Diver Scallops ($36). Though served with Adobo spice, this dish was not spicy in any regard. Joined by a corn-spring vegetable ragu, peppered bacon, tomato confit and a balsamic reduction, prepare yourself for being flabbergasted by this incredibly ambrosial and tasty option.

Pan Seared Diver Scallops

We’ve thoroughly enjoyed our many visits to Beso in Las Vegas. Whether there for a long, relaxing, romantic dinner, entertaining business associates or just sipping on cocktails at the bar and on the outdoor patio, we have always had an enjoyable time.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Enormous crystal chandeliers tumble from high ceilings above dining patrons and the cozy seductive lounge, while flickering candles and wall sconces enhance the already alluring environment. A burst of the eatery’s signature red flashes from the open preview kitchen as well as on the outside patio’s seat cushions. Prepare for enchantment, romance and a trendy upscale vibe at this fine dining establishment.

FOOD / DRINK: Exquisite preparation, creative selections, outstanding unique cocktails and intriguing visual display of all items offered.

LOCATION: Beso is located at 3720 South Las Vegas Boulevard in Las Vegas, NV 89109 in the Crystals Shopping Plaza inside the renowned City Center next door to the Aria Hotel & Casino.

HOURS: Beso Steakhouse in Las Vegas is open for dinner Sunday through Thursday from 5PM – 10PM, then on Fridays and Saturdays from 5PM – 11PM. Reservations are recommended.

SERVICE / STAFF: Camacho was our server the last time we dined at Beso. Just as his stellar service and kind demeanor was appreciated, we’ve also been happily satisfied with past service from all other servers and bar staff.

PRICE / VALUE: Considering the quality and proportions of what we ordered, we feel that we received a fair value.

CORKAGE FEE: $35 per bottle! But it’s Vegas…and it’s a steakhouse. Both of which tend to drive the corkage charges higher than normal.

CONTACT INFO: This restaurant is no longer in business.

PARKING: Valet service is available at the front of the establishment in the rounded entry drive in front of Aria Hotel & Casino, which is immediately next door to Beso.

TOTAL BILL: We ordered a Pear & Elderflower Sangria, two glasses of Champagne, the Iceberg Wedge Salad, the Signature Guacamole, a Chopped Salad, the Sesame Crusted Halibut, a side of the Au Gratin Potatoes and the Pan Seared Diver Scallops, which brought our grand total to just over $160. Well worth the splurge, and most certainly well worth the visit!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

ROASTFISH & CORNBREAD… “Fine Southern Cuisine & Artistry Everywhere!”

Posted on August 7, 2012 by savo0429

Chef David Vincent Young transformed an area along Marshland Road on Hilton Head Island, SC into an uncommon dining venue for locals and tourists alike to experience his Low Country Gullah cuisine, which carries with it a distinctive Caribbean flair. Roastfish & Cornbread is brimming with artistic connotations everywhere one can look. From the location of the eatery, nestled beneath hovering protective mighty oaks overhead to the simple style of the white stucco exterior of the establishment enhanced by the outdoors to to the brilliant colors housed inside just through the front door to Chef David’s thoroughly enjoyable and unforgettable cuisine, this is the place to find comfort, good times and a feeling of home. There’s no pressure here. Just a great culinary experience with generous portions, hushpuppies and sweet potato cornbread you will not soon forget and a friendly environment that will only set you at ease the moment you arrive.

The approach to the restaurant is pure Lowcountry. Gravel parking beneath massive oaks trees, a pathway of paving stones leading to an arched, wooden, carved front door, a charming picnic-bench-appointed outdoor patio, tiki torches to set the mood and that great inviting feel of the south. This is definitely a place you’ll want to visit. Since it’s opening in 2009, this dining establishment has been renowned for its mouthwatering selections and it’s popularity. From day one, there’s literally been a waiting line to get in for dinner. And that still holds true today. We promise, however, that it will be worth the wait to sink your teeth into Chef David’s culinary creations. And the way his staff cares for patrons is uncanny. Their devotion to guests and kind friendly demeanor has proven continuous and is always well-appreciated.

Once inside, the colors are vibrant, exciting and Caribbean-inspired. In-wall shadow boxes are enhanced by golden lights which show off the various art and shells for the viewing pleasure of appreciative patrons, while walls colored in intense hues of oranges and yellows draw attention to original artwork displayed. The interior seating is welcoming, intriguing and eclectic, and feels a bit as thought you’re at a friend’s island home to enjoy dinner together as the sun sets beyond the horizon.

Below, we were treated to a viewing of the artistic brush manipulations of a very talented painter. Here, at our table, we had a front-row view of his artistry. Such an amazing thing to witness as you dine…

Gullah cuisine maintains its emphasis on tradition. Most of the time, Gullah recipes are those that have been passed down from generation to generation…sometimes unwritten. Such examples of typical Gullah foods include yams, rice, peas, and many more items most would tend to think are ‘Southern’ delicacies. Always exploding with flavor and unique in its own ways, Gullah cuisine can be enjoyed by most anyone.

Below, my husband ordered a seafood plate which included Grilled Mahi Mahi, grilled shrimp, grilled scallops and three out-of-this-world hushpuppies garnished with a sprig of parsley and a lemon wedge. The scallops were tender and flavorsome with just the right amount of seasoning on them without being too salty or spicy. The shrimp and fish were juicy and served at a perfect temperature, while the hush puppies contained small bits of corn throughout their tender savory texture.

Seafood Plate With Grilled Mahi Mahi

I made my decision and chose the seafood plate with fried oysters, grilled flounder, grilled scallops, macaroni and cheese and a piece of Chef David’s amazing sweet potato cornbread. Tasting more like a dessert than cornbread, I could easily see this side item being served with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream for dessert! It was sensational, as were our entrees.

Seafood Plate With Fried Oysters

All in all, we enjoyed our entire experience at Roastfish & Cornbread. Do we recommend it? Yes, we do. Will we return for more of Chef David’s intriguing culinary artistry? Most definitely.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Caribbean-style paintings and colors prevail indoors at Roastfish & Cornbread. Comfortable family-style seating indoors, while picnic benches aligned atop a patio surface are available for dining al fresco.

FOOD / DRINK: Nicely-seasoned, not-too-salty seafood, meat dishes and vegan dishes are also available here. Chef David should really market his Sweet Potato Cornbread and hush puppies! They’re THAT good!

LOCATION: Roastfish & Cornbread is located at 70 Marshland Road on Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.

HOURS:Monday through Saturday from 11 AM – 9 PM. The restaurant is closed on Sundays.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our waitress was kind, friendly, kept a smile on her face at all times and genuinely seemed as though she loved being employed at Roastfish & Cornbread. It was refreshing to see that.

PRICE / VALUE: We were happy. A great locale with terrific Gullah-style Low Country cooking and a friendly efficient staff. Is there really more than that?

CORKAGE FEE: $10 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (843) 342-2996, Website: www.roastfishandcornbread.com

PARKING: There is ample parking right in front of the restaurant beneath the oak trees hovering overhead.

TOTAL BILL: Our total bill was just under $50 (including tax) for our two entrees and a few beverages.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

CANOE RESTAURANT… “Romance & Culinary Excellence Amidst the Chattahoochee River!”

Posted on July 29, 2012 by savo0429

Built along the serene banks of the Chattahoochee River in Georgia subsists the hailed restaurant, Canoe. With the property’s roaming paths and polished beautiful natural scenery, patrons can breathe in the fresh air, take a relaxing saunter along beautified meandering walkways, then settle in for a commendable and memorable dining experience. Our last visit to Canoe proved to be one such experience.

Having recently been awarded Zagat’s 2012 / 2013 Atlanta Restaurants Top 20 Food Ratings Survey accreditation, the establishment also received acclamations for the #2 Top Decor, #4 Top Service and #4 Most Popular. All of this out of 471 restaurants the metro Atlanta region. Pretty impressive!

An eye-catching bar with coffered ceilings and artist-sculpted wrought iron details is a main attraction in this area of the restaurant above.

The elegant dining area shows off Canoe’s red leather chairs, white-clothed tables and brick details throughout.

Petite Beef Short Ribs

Above, the Petite Beef Short Ribs were a perfect starter complimented with seared vegetables and joined by a trio of sauces.

Breaded Herbed Goat Cheese

The Breaded Herbed Goat Cheese above was devoured quickly and presented on a bed of vegetable slaw accompanied by an olive and basil oil blend.

Dressed Lemon Sole

I selected the Dressed Lemon Sole with fingerling potatoes, French green beans and a succulent and savory lemon-butter sauce that complimented all the flavors of the dish.

Slow-Roasted Beef Brisket

My husband chose the Slow-Roasted Beef Brisket over a palate of celery root whipped potatoes and a vegetable slaw in a savory beef jus.

Raspberry Torte

The raspberry, chocolate and vanilla torte was topped with a crumbled cookie crown. This was a scrumptious delight after such a wonderful meal.

Since we arrived after nightfall for dinner on this particular evening, we were unable to photograph the beautiful lawns and gardens on the property. However, on our return to Atlanta, we will update this post with those photos when we revisit the restaurant during the day.

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Charming, romantic, upscale and welcoming.

FOOD / DRINK: This popular eatery offers pleasing dishes, an array of choices to suit most anyone’s taste and a commanding wine list.

LOCATION: The restaurant is located in the Vinings community at 4199 Paces Ferry Road, SE in Atlanta, GA 30339.

HOURS: Canoe offers Lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, Dinner Monday through Thursday from 5:30 PM – 10 PM, then Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 PM – 11 PM, and on Sundays from 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Brunch is available Sundays from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Exceptional attention was given to us by our server and the staff of Canoe. The customer service alone will have us returning.

PRICE / VALUE: For what we received at Canoe, including the precise execution of excellent service by our waiter and attention to detail, we feel Canoe is priced fairly, and we will return again in the future.

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

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (770) 432-2663, Website: www.canoeatl.com

PARKING: Valet parking is available for your convenience.

TOTAL BILL: Our final bill totaled over $85, which included a few glasses of wine with dinner. However, we must recommend Canoe due to the worthiness of the cuisine, excellence of the service and tranquility of the establishment as a whole.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

TRATTORIA AMICI @ BEVERLY TERRACE HOTEL… “You’ll Feel Like Family!”

Posted on July 21, 2012 by savo0429

The word ‘trattoria’ in Italian translates to ‘an informal Italian-style eating establishment with a neighborhood feel and the intention of making customers feel like they’re part of the family’. ‘Amici’ in Italian means ‘friends’. Trattoria Amici offers proportionate servings of both. We visited this surprising eatery tucked alongside the Hotel Beverly Terrace at the corner of Doheny Drive and Santa Monica Boulevard in Beverly Hills on two ocassions within a week of each visit. Our first trip was so incredible, we had to revisit the restaurant again before writing this review. As we suspected it would be, the service, cuisine and attention to detail were all outstanding once again.

Red cloth napkins and bright white tablecloths adorn the several bistro-style tables both indoors and on the garden patio. Tall wrought iron gates welcome you into the dining establishment’s main entrance as you walk inside along a red carpet. A natural carved hedge surrounds the outdoor dining section giving it a cozy and intimate feel, while tiny white twinkling lights are strung overhead and in the surrounding foliage. Walking into this Italian venue could not be more welcoming if it tried. We immediately felt at home as we entered this delightfully amiable neighborhood dwelling.

The owners make a successful attempt at creating the perfect setting for an intimate feasting experience. As you can see in the photos above, fresh vibrant-colored flowers are placed on each table creating a romantic allure that cannot be resisted. The flickering votive candles also add to the delightful ambiance.

Trattoria Amici offers a simple $15 corkage charge for patrons who choose to bring in their own bottles of wine to enjoy with their meal. I loved the way our waiter used the foil of the wine bottle to suspend its cork! Just a very creative little “extra” that is one of the many things this great Italian restaurant presents to its customers. The above larger picture is of our wine bottle once the cork was attached via the foil by our clever waiter. The two smaller images are of our table after our vino was opened and poured and Trattoria Amici’s bread basket accompanied by marinated fresh tomatoes and a Cannellini Bean Dip that’s just insanely delicious!

Zuppa Di Lenticchie Pinaci

Let’s start with soup! The delectable creamy Zuppa Di Lenticchie Pinaci is an organic lentil soup with fresh julienne spinach. Catchy to the eye as well as the palate, this starter is incredibly savory and enriched with only the best of ingredients. It’s perfect for a cool evening or anytime you feel like having a comforting bowl of healthy goodness!

Artichoke Puree Soup Special

Another special soup offering was the Artichoke Puree Soup above. This starter was incredible tasting and every bite included the flavor of artichoke. Simply delicious!

Parmigiana Classica Di Pollo

If you love Chicken Parmesan…I mean really LOVE the dish, you have to have it at Trattoria Amici! The Parmigiana Classica Di Pollo is a lightly breaded paillard “parmigiana” with fresh mozzarella and tomato sauce. My husband loved the way the chef served this dish. The chicken is pounded very thin, unlike other versions we’ve enjoyed. It was a nice change with all of the expected flavor and savory tomato sauce one could want.

Polleto Al Mattone Alla Fiamma

I thoroughly enjoyed the Polleto Al Mattone Alla Fiamma, which is the restaurant’s version of a half chicken that’s flame broiled with wild herbs and garlic then served with hearty potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The chicken was tender, moist and well-prepared. I finished the entire thing leaving nothing on my plate!

Bolognese Sauce and Fettuccine Alla Bolognese Di Vettelo

The chef was kind enough to prepare a tasting of their veal Bolognese sauce for my husband. This lucious bowl of heavenly Bolognese convinced my husband to order the Fettuccine Alla Bolognese Di Vetello (top right photo). With its homemade fettuccine and old fashioned veal ‘Bolognese’ sauce, a satisfied smile crossed my husband’s face. A very good sign, as he is pretty critical of most cuisines we experience.

Lasagne Alla Piemontese Di Tacchinella

I especially enjoyed the Lasagne Alla Piemontese Di Tacchinella above. This homemade lasagna with a turkey ragu and tomato sauce was tasteful, flavorsome and gratifying all at once. Have we mentioned how amazing Trattoria Amici’s tomato sauce is? In a word, it’s downright scrumptious!

Grilled Dover Sole

Above, the grilled Dover Sole presented with seasonal vegetables and topped with capers was a tasty and light choice and was one of the specials for the evening.

Grilled Lobster & Apple Salad

The Grilled Lobster & Apple Salad (above and below) was refreshing and perfect for when you want something filling, light and savory.

Grilled Lobster & Apple Salad

For dessert, we chose two sorbet selections. The Coconut Sorbet is offered in an actual coconut shell! We adored this presentation! (Another “little thing” that makes such a difference in one’s dining venture at this restaurant!) This sorbet is large enough to share between two people, and the sweet indulgent flavor will prove astonishing when you try this chilled dessert. The powdered sugar and grated coconut on top was also a nice touch.

Coconut Sorbet

Below, the Peach Sorbet is served in a frozen hollowed-out fresh peach then garnished with a frozen slice of the fruit. Yet another ingenious presentation from the kitchen of Trattoria Amici!

Peach Sorbet

Another nice touch at Trattoria Amici is the fresh-baked chocolate-chip cookie plate that is promptly delivered to your table to enjoy. These morsels of melty milk chocolate and sweet cookie are drizzled with more chocolate on top and garnished with a sprinkling of powdered sugar. Just delicious! These actually reminded me of baking cookies as a child, bringing back wonderful memories from many years ago.

House Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies

No matter what attractive options from the menu you choose, you will not go wrong. In fact, you’ll feel a bit as though you’ve dined at a cozy eatery in Italy, and you’ll be left wanting to repeat your experience over and over!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Intimate interior and garden patio setting. Romantic and worthy of a medal for the exceptional ambiance!

FOOD / DRINK: Outstanding, authentic, memorable cuisine that will have you coming back for more.

LOCATION: Trattoria Amici is located on the side of the Hotel Beverly Terrace on the corner of Doheny Drive and Santa Monica Boulevard at 469 North Doheny Drive in Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

HOURS: Open daily for dinner from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, Monday through Saturday for lunch from 12 PM to 2:30 PM, and every Saturday for brunch between 11:30 AM and 2 PM. Remember that reservations are highly recommended, especially on the weekends, due to the available space and popularity of the establishment.

SERVICE / STAFF: Our server, Jason, was exceptional both times we dined at Trattoria Amici. Unmatched customer service, friendly demeanor, sincere personal service and incredible attention to detail.

PRICE / VALUE: We agree with the price range at this wonderful Italian eatery. Moderate prices for delicious authentic Italian cuisine!

CORKAGE FEE: $15 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (310) 858-0271, Website: www.tamici.com

PARKING: Parking is available along the fence opposite of the restaurant, as well as with the Hotel Valet.

TOTAL BILL: On our first visit last Friday evening, we ordered a glass of Cabernet, an Arnold Palmer, the Zuppa Di Lenticchie, the Chicken Parmigiana, the Lasagne Alla Piemontese and the Coconut Sorbet for a total of $75.79 (including tax). Our most recent visit included a corked bottle of Pinot Noir we brought in for a $15 corkage charge, as well as the Fettuccine Alla Bolognese, the Polletto Al Mattone Alla Fiamma and the Peach Sorbet for a total of $66.78 (including tax). Both phenomenal experiences well worth the splurge!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

ECCO RESTAURANT… “Atlanta’s Midtown Culinary Hot Spot!”

Posted on July 19, 2012 by savo0429

In the heart of Midtown in Atlanta, Georgia, Ecco exists. With its distinct marble floors, huge bar and lounge area, open-view kitchen and modern sophistication, this upscale casual establishment offers delectable cuisine with a heavy European influence that you will wish you had experienced before this moment…

Upon entering Ecco’s massive glass entry, we could see the open exhibition kitchen with its staff rushing around behind the counter as they prepared excellent culinary creations for their attending patrons for the evening…

Huge slices of freshly-baked crusty bread are supplied to the table shortly after guests are seated. A square porcelain container of chilled butter is served to accompany that…

The below photo is of Ecco’s Fried Goat Cheese. Orbs of lightly-fried heaps of creamy goat cheese coated in drizzles of sweet honey and cracked black pepper. It just melts in your mouth…

Fried Goat Cheese

This refreshing salad with cucumbers, green and red tomatoes, yellow bell pepper and fresh herbs was marinated in a delicious olive oil along with the scrumptious crunchy croutons mixed in. What a lovely idea to mix everything together, toss in a few crunchy croutons, then marinate it all in olive oil. The result…crunchy, happy goodness on a plate. I almost recreated this dish at home…in fact, I got pretty close, but it’s always better at Ecco!

Marinated Salad With Garlic Croutons & Vegetables In a Succulent Olive Oil Coating

If you get the chance to dine at Ecco, this is a must-have…the Roasted Piquillo Peppers stuffed with braised short rib and a succulent sauce that will make you desire more…

Roasted Piquillo Peppers

A favorite among locals at Ecco, (oh wait…they’re all favorites), is their Wood-Fired San Marzano Pizza with fresh tomatoes, house-made mozzarella and flavorsome basil…

Wood-Fired San Marzano Pizza

The next photo is of Ecco’s incredible Roasted Beets With Orange and Thyme. My husband loved it, and me…well, I’m not a lover of beets, but this dish changed my mind. Sweetened by fresh seasonal oranges and topped with pistachios, I almost forgot there were beets in this wonderful offering. The vibrant bold color of this selection was stunning…

Roasted Beets With Orange and Thyme

Fine ribbons of Fettuccine created the base for the below pasta dish topped with a kale and tomato mixture marinated in a delicious savory flavorful sauce that tied everything together in a perfect package…

Fettuccine Special With a Kale and Tomato Marinade

I loved the presentation of the tender chicken breast dish below…

Roasted Free-Range Chicken Breast

The Roasted Free-Range Chicken Breast served with steamed greenbeans was tender and succulent, and was presented in its own savory juices. No need for creamy sauces with this dish! It’s natural flavor enhanced by fresh herbs in the kitchen was just perfect.

Blueberry Mint Sorbet

For a simple and light dessert above, we shared a bowl of Ecco’s sweet and tangy Blueberry-Mint Sorbet.

As you can see in the photo above, we wound up closing the place down. We were the very last customers to leave!

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Ecco’s soaring glass entry invites you into it’s upscale modern motif inside. Casual, yet chic and elegant, this is a “must-do” in the Midtown section of Atlanta!

FOOD / DRINK: Refreshing sips and indulgent bites! Extremely creative conglomerations of flavors and visual satisfaction in every dish.

LOCATION: Ecco is located at 40 7th Street NE in Midtown in Atlanta, GA 30308.

HOURS: The bar and patio open at 4 PM daily, while dinner is served Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 PM – 10 PM, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 PM – 11 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: Courteous, efficient, professional and friendly.

PRICE / VALUE: Amazing-amazing-amazing! Ecco is on our list of restaurants to visit on every trip we take to the city! Outstanding value and prices for what is offered.

CORKAGE: $20 per bottle.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (404) 347-9555. Website: www.ecco-atlanta.com

PARKING: Metered street parking is available surrounding the restaurant.

TOTAL BILL: Our total bill was over $100 (including tax), but it was so worth the additional expenditure for the quality of the meal and beverages, the creative flair of the cuisine, the modern-chic atmosphere and the attentive staff.

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

THE MANTEL WINE BAR & BISTRO… “One of Oklahoma City’s Best!”

Posted on July 11, 2012 by savo0429

Located in the historic district of downtown Oklahoma City exists a wine bar and bistro called The Mantel Wine Bar & Bistro. Recently recognized by Cornell University as one of the country’s best “gourmet” restaurants, we had the opportunity to experience just why it is one of the city’s best eateries.

Upon entering after dark for dinner, my husband and I were seated at a cozy booth surrounded by candlelight. The atmosphere was that of an upscale establishment with a casual, yet elegant flair.

Our meal started with a delicious flavorful bread being served to us by a friendly professional waiter. An emphasis of “taking our time” while we were there was suggested, and we did just that as we ordered a couple of glasses of wine to start out…

My husband ordered a delicious Cabernet, while I enjoyed a Merlot that our waiter hand selected for me…

For salad selections, we had the House Salad and the Spinach Salad. Below, my husband savored this fresh and colorful collaboration of flavor with cucumber, currants, bleu cheese, grape tomatoes and a roasted red bell pepper vinaigrette dressing that tied the entire dish of palatable vegetables together…

House Salad

I went for the Spinach Salad, (below), which included raspberry caramelized onions, bleu cheese, candied pecans, sliced apple and a honey balsamic vinaigrette. I enjoyed the sweetness and crunch of the candied pecans and the contrast of essence between the creamy bleu cheese and the full-flavored vinaigrette.

Spinach Salad

For my entree, I chose Mantel’s Blackened Ahi Tuna. Pan seared Ahi tuna with roasted poblano and sweet corn risotto, a vegetable of the day and enhanced with a mouthwatering champagne blackberry reduction…

Pan Seared Blackened Ahi Tuna

The below is my husband’s entree…the twelve-ounce Prime New York Strip served with steamed asparagus, fingerling potatoes and a whiskey mushroom cream sauce…

12-Ounce Prime New York Strip

ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The Mantel is a casual, yet sophisticated-styled bistro, wine bar and restaurant with a comfortable and inviting ambiance. A terrific place for a late-night dinner, and we can imagine it would be perfect as well most any time of the day or evening.

FOOD / DRINK: Succulent dishes, savory wines and beautiful presentations from the chef.

LOCATION: The Mantel WIne Bar & Bistro is located at 201 East Sheridan in the historic district of downtown Oklahoma City, OK 73104.

HOURS: Dining is available Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM, Fridays from 11 AM to 11 PM, Saturdays from 5 PM to 11 PM, and on Sundays from 5 PM to 9 PM.

SERVICE / STAFF: We experienced excellent attentive service from our waiter at The Mantel. Professional, courteous and willing to make suggestions for us.

PRICE / VALUE: Great meals, terrific prices and incredible value!

CORKAGE: No outside alcohol is allowed into the restaurant.

CONTACT INFO: Phone: (405) 236-8040, Website: www.themantelokc.com

PARKING: There is a parking lot for patrons outside the front of the restaurant, as well as valet service for your convenience.

TOTAL BILL: Our final bill came in just over $85, however it was well worth the splurge! We’ll definitely return for dinner on our next visit to Oklahoma City!

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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Category Archives: Dinners

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