Tag Archives: pasta

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

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Twitt

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

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

Fresh Baked Ciabatta Bread Served With Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinaigrette

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

Sonoma Salad

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

BBQ Chicken Pizza

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

Chicken Picatta

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

Tagliatelle Bolognese

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

Chicken Marsala

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

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

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

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Larchmont Village Wine & Cheese Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

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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.
  • 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.

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Veni Vidi Vici Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

 

 

 

MUSSO & FRANK GRILL… “A Part of Hollywood History!”

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Musso & Frank Grill has been a foundation of Hollywood history since this family-owned business originally opened it’s doors in 1919. Existing before the renowned Hollywood sign was erected in the lush Hollywood hills, Musso & Frank Grill was standing proud and serving some of Hollywood’s elite. As a major part of Hollywood’s antiquity, this restaurant also became a literary watering hole for many famous authors in the 1930s. Listed on the “1001 Places to See before You Die” list, Musso & Frank Grill will show you the numerous reasons it is just that.

As you enter the establishment through the front door, you can just feel the history here. A plethora of experience is proudly possessed by every server here…some having been employed here since the 1950s. Waiters in classic red serving jackets with black lapels donning bow ties over crisp white collared shirts hold within them a pride and dignity for being a part of this history-rich foundation of culinary achievement.

Musso & Frank Grill Menus & a Bottle of Wine

Above, the 90-year-old menu still allures those with a taste for the finer things in life, while red leather booths and rich mahogany add even more warmth and inviting ambiance than you could ever imagine. We were treated as though we were part of the family during our dining experience at Musso & Frank Grill. From a sincere courteousness to friendly charming conversation, we had the most delightful time conversing with our waiter. Our acquaintance who dined with us this particular day brought along a bottle of wine for the table and also agreed that our server was one of the kindest and most professional waiters she had experienced in a long time. Then came the cuisine. Just when we thought things couldn’t get any better, we realized how amazing the culinary creations from Chef J. P. Amateau really are…

Fresh-Baked Bread Served Before Meals & the Marinated Herring

The specially-baked Sourdough French bread that is generously served to each patron’s table is soft, flavorful and undoubtedly memorable. Baked to perfection, this scrumptious provision is accompanied by a receptacle of chilled sweet cream butter topped with a thin paper prominently displaying the restaurant’s name. A quick photo with forks rapidly digging in to it, the above right photo is of the eatery’s popular Marinated Herring ($12). A terrific appetizer large enough to share with another person, this marinated herring is served atop iceberg and romaine lettuces with an ample serving of sour cream and is garnished with a black olive.

Grenadine of Beef With Bearnaise Sauce

The Grenadine of Beef With Bearnaise Sauce ($30) was comprised of three tender filets of beef topped with a savory creamy Bearnaise sauce surrounded by a delectable brown gravy and green field peas. My husband ordered this entree and had no trouble at all polishing it off. I did get a couple of bites from him to taste this excellent menu choice and found it to be amazing in taste and visual appeal.

Lobster Thermidor

The Lobster Thermidor was sensationally prepared. This popular French dish was comprised of a creamy conglomeration of cooked lobster meat, egg yolks and cognac, stuffed into a lobster shell, then abundantly topped with Gruyere cheese mixed with a hint of mustard. Such a sublime treat with the succulent lobster and rich mixture of savoriness!

Porcini Mushroom Risotto

I ordered the Porcini Mushroom Risotto ($22). A huge fan of excellently-cooked risotto and porcini mushrooms, I just couldn’t pass this by. So I ordered it. And I devoured the entire thing! And it was one of the most incredible, flavorsome, hearty mushroom risottos ever. The meatiness and earthy flavor from the porcini mushrooms enhanced the creaminess of the risotto. A well-appointed option for anyone who enjoys pasta presentations.

Musso & Frank Torten

If there is one dessert that you have at Musso & Frank Grill, it simply must be their Torten ($7). This Neopolitan is layered with strawberries, fluffy whipped cream and strawberry sauce then topped with fresh strawberries. The three of us shared this sinful treat, and had absolutely no regrets afterward!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Warm mahogany and red leather booths embrace the history of years gone by, while welcoming patrons inside to enjoy its classic elegance and storied past.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Superior fare crafted in the Musso & Frank Grill kitchen keeps customers…both new and old…returning time and time again.
  • LOCATION: Musso & Frank Grill is located at 6667 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, CA 90028.
  • HOURS: Musso & Frank is available for service Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM – 11 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: We were shown nothing but the utmost professionalism and kindness by our server.
  • PRICE / VALUE: This establishment has been serving the city since 1919. The menu has featured the same Musso & Frank classic options for 90 years now, and there’s a reason why. Superior quality for an acceptable value.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $20 per 750mL bottle
  • PARKING: Validated parking is available at the rear of the restaurant, as well as city parking lots nearby.
  • TOTAL BILL: With the corkage charge, the Marinated Herring appetizer, the Porcini Mushroom Risotto, the Lobster Thermidor, the Grenadine of Beef with Bearnaise Sauce, and the Musso & Frank Torten dessert, our final bill came in a little over $128 (including tax). More than most diners may look forward to spending on a lunch for three, but we enjoyed every detail about it from the superb service to the exquisite ambiance of the restaurant to the classic ambiance of this Hollywood storied eatery.

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Musso & Frank Grill on Restaurantica

Musso & Frank Grill Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

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

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

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

Prime Hour Caesar Salad

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

Anchovies Served Atop a Lettuce Leaf For Caesar Salads

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

Shrimp Cocktail

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

Crabtini

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

Prime Burger Sliders

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

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

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

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

Tenderloin Rolls

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

Veal Osso Bucco Ravioli

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

Barbequed Shrimp

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

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

The Ruth’s Chris Prime Burger With Fries

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

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: The Ruth’s Chris spacious lounge can be described as Asian-modern with a trendy edge to it. We’ve found this establishment’s lounge to be quite accommodating for their Happy Hour activities.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Terrific steaks, incredible burgers, fun sliders, refreshing salads, outstanding beverages….okay, everything here is amazing!
  • LOCATION: The Woodland Hills Ruth’s Chris is located at the Westfield Towne Promenade Mall at 6100 Topanga Canyon Boulevard in Woodland Hills, CA in Suite 1360.
  • HOURS: Prime Hour is available Tuesday through Friday from 5PM to 7PM. However, on Fridays, you can start enjoying what is offered at 4:30 PM! But get there early on a Friday, because this space gets filled up quickly if you’re not in the know. Sundays and Mondays, Prime Hour selections are offered all night from 5PM until closing.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Exceptional service every time we have visited this restaurant. Unparallelled customer service!
  • PRICE / VALUE: Amazing, amazing, amazing! Just go and you’ll see why we are so excited about the value of the Prime Hour menu!
  • CORKAGE FEE: In the lounge or main dining room, if you bring in a bottle to cork, there is a $15 corkage charge. Now we have to tell you this…if you bring in a bottle to have with dinner, then order even a half-bottle off the Ruth’s Chris menu, the restaurant will waive your $15 corkage charge! How’s that for a deal! And customer loyalty!
  • CONTACT INFO:Phone: (818) 227-9505. Website:www.ruthschris.com
  • PARKING: Valet parking is available, however there is ample parking in front of the restaurant in the parking lot and just a few short steps from the lot to the front door of this eatery.
  • TOTAL BILL: We’ve experienced this Prime Hour on a few ocassions, never having a bill that exceeded $40 (including tax). Of course, depending on how many items you order, the final bill will reflect those selections. We’re very happy with this Ruth’s Chris and will continue to return again and again.

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Ruth's Chris Steak House on Restaurantica

Ruth's Chris Steak House Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

JOE’S RESTAURANT… “Culinary Excellence With a Neighborhood Feel!”

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Known for it’s beaches and popular boardwalk, being an abode for the creative and artistically-inclined, its elongated entertainment-furnished Promenade and slower-paced neighborhood feel, Venice, CA is also host to another notable attraction…Joe’s Restaurant. For more than 20 years, Joe’s has been catering to the gastronomic cravings of patrons and leaving in its wake only satisfied customers forming lines to return. Our most recent visit to this eatery proved to be a delight of the senses, a culinary experience worth noting and an excellent choice for a late lunch.

Opened in1991, Executive Chef and owner, Joseph Miller sought out his love of all things culinary by opening Joe’s Restaurant along Abbot Kinney Boulevard in an eclectic section of Venice, California. Since that memorable occasion, Chef Miller has been serving up unmistakable offerings that serve as a favorite gathering spot among locals.

Below, the restaurant’s staff hard at work in the kitchen, the covered tranquil patio, the view of Joe’s from outside, indoor dining, a walk along the sidewalk beside the eatery and the view of the hallway leading from the patio back to the front entry.

Upon being seated at a cozy table for two on the patio on a perfectly beautiful California day, our server brought a vessel of iced water to our table, menus and a variety of breads with butter and an olive tapenade. Relaxing sounds of water flowing from the stone wall fountain built into a patio wall amplifies the al fresco dining experience. The fresh crusty bread that is served while perusing the menu is hearty and delightful.

I especially loved this warm weather chiller…the Watermelon Agua Fresca! Fresh-squeezed watermelon juice, simple syrup, a splash of soda and lime juice just waiting to be enjoyed. Such a refreshing beverage to enjoy on a warm day...

Watermelon Agua Fresca

The Chef’s Tasting was a small biscuit accompanied by a square of pork belly with a peach mustard, which complimented the flavors nicely.

Chef’s Tasting…Pork Belly With Peach Mustard and a Biscuit

Joe’s offers a sensational three-course lunch extension. For just $19, you can choose a starter, entree and dessert! We’re not kidding! We both did this, and were extremely satisfied with what we were presented for under $20.

Here’s what we ordered…

For my starter, I chose the Carrot Ginger Soup with Creme Fraiche and Cilantro. The essence of ginger was unique and mildly spicy throughout without being too overwhelming, while the soothing carrot puree rounded the dish off perfectly…

Carrot Ginger Soup

My husband chose the Albacore Crudo for his beginning flavor experience. Enhanced with Creme Fraiche, Japanese cucumber, breakfast radish, watermelon and toasted sesame, a quick taste of this appetizer convinced me that visual artistry wasn’t it’s only highlight…

Albacore Crudo

For his entree, my husband selected the California Sand Dabs. Avocado, cherry tomatoes, Maine sweet shrimp and delicate Sand Dabs in a delicious chive nage. (Nage is a French word for a flavored liquid used for poaching delicate foods-typically seafood. An example of a traditional nage is a broth flavored with white wine, vegetables and herbs in which seafood is poached. The liquid is then reduced and thickened with cream and butter.)

California Sand Dabs

Below is a close-up of the Sand Dab dish. It was so beautiful and colorful, I just couldn’t resist…

My entree choice was the Duck Confit Tagliatelle. Super thin ribbons of Tagliatelle pasta, topped with multi-colored baby carrots, poached leeks, grilled onions and a savory duck jus. This dish was scrumptious and filling and I was happy to have ordered it.

Duck Confit Tagliatelle

For our dessert selections, my husband opted for the Chocolate Crunch Cake below. Joined by a hazelnut praline, coffee ice cream and flavorful candied hazelnuts, this sweet temptation was crunchy, delectable and good enough to cure even the most discriminative chocolate cravings.

Chocolate Crunch Cake

I selected the Pavlova. Fresh macerated berries, meringue, mascarpone cream atop delicately crumbled cookies. So picturesque!

Pavlova

Joe’s has the deal on lunch in Venice! Nowhere else that we have found has this much variety and quality for under $20 for three courses. Take a look at their menu online and see what we mean. And the next time you’re in the Venice area, be sure to stop in at Joe’s. Whether it’s for their three-course lunches, their prix-fixed dinners, or just to indulge in a cold creative concoction at the cozy intimate bar, you’ll be glad you visited!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: Upscale, yet has a casual feel. Cozy, yet possesses a spacious ambiance. Gets busy, yet we never felt as thought we were forgotten at any point during our visit.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Refreshing Watermelon Agua Fresca coolers, a choice selection of wines and cocktails and eye-catching culinary presentations worthy of being placed in national food magazines. The menu items are full of flavor and creatively engineered.
  • LOCATION: Joe’s is located at 1023 Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice, CA 91411.
  • HOURS: Joe’s is available for lunch Tuesday through Friday from Noon – 2:30 PM, dinner on Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday from 6 PM – 10 PM, then on Friday and Saturday from 6 PM – 11 PM, brunch Saturdays and Sundays from 11A to 2:30 PM. Joe’s is closed on Mondays.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Marguerite was our server, and was professional, suggested favorites on the menu and gracious. All other staff we interacted with were friendly and very assisting as well.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Happy, happy, happy. Where else can you find such value for two lunches with such variety at these prices?
  • CORKAGE FEE: $25 per bottle.
  • PARKING: $2 with restaurant validation located in the lot behind the restaurant.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our two three-course lunches at $19 per meal plus a Watermelon Agua Fresca and a green tea came to a total of $50.03 (including tax).

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Joe's Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

LOCANDA DEL LAGO RISTORANTE ITALIANO… “Great Spot For Lunch in Santa Monica!”

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Along the busy corridor of the Third Street Promenade and Arizona Avenue in Santa Monica, there is Locanda del Lago. A welcoming and inviting lunch location that is enjoyed by many. On a recent trip to this venue, some friends and I enjoyed some light fare here during a day of shopping and visiting…

The fresh baked crunchy bread served here is wonderful. Presented with a bit of olive oil, it’s a terrific beginning to a delightful meal…

We began with two orders of the Tartara Di Tonno…the Ahi Tuna Tartar made with Lone Ranch Farms avocado, red onion, a creamy balsamic dressing and kept company by a few plantain chips, which were mildly sweet in flavor…

Tartara Di Tonno

All but one of us ordered salads. I chose the Insalata Di Pollo Con Funghi. This is a salad of market greens, sliced chicken breast and a warm mushroom dressing. I wanted to change things up a bit, so I had the chicken replaced by Tiger Shrimp for $5 more and asked that the Parmesan Pizza Bread that normally comes with this dish to not be added. The result was a perfectly light shrimp salad with no carbs mixed with a sumptuous flavorsome dressing…

Insalata Di Pollo Con Funghi (With Tiger Shrimp In Place of the Chicken)

Below, one of my friends selected the Insalata Rucola e Parmigiano. Fresh Arugula, market cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese and a creamy lemon dressing…

Insalata Rucola e Parmigiano

An additional salad creation chosen at our table was the original Insalata Di Pollo Con Funghi, which included market greens, sliced chicken breast and a warm mushroom dressing topped by chunks of avocado coupled with a few slices of Locanda del Lago’s Parmesan Pizza Bread.

Insalata Di Pollo Con Funghi

Finally, the last order from our table was for the Spaghetti Verdi, which was served with large shrimp and a warm mushroom sauce. Of course, it was topped with a mountain of freshly-grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese!

Spaghetti Verdi

Even the bill was presented to us in its own wooden boat…so creative!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: A fun festive environment with available patio dining options in front of the establishment. Our party sat outside and had a wonderful experience!
  • FOOD / DRINK: Healthy refreshing salads, hearty homemade pasta, sensational Ahi tuna tartar and a sensational wine list.
  • LOCATION: Locanda del Lago is located at 231 Arizona Avenue in Santa Monica, CA 90401.
  • HOURS: Open for lunch and dinner Sunday through Wednesdays from 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM and on on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Friendly and efficient service was provided by our server.
  • PRICE / VALUE: Acceptable prices for the quality and convenience of the restaurant’s location in Santa Monica.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $20 per bottle
  • PARKING: Valet parking for the restaurant is available nightly during dinner service, while the Santa Monica city parking structures nearby are available during lunch offerings.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our bill was over $100 due to our ordering a bottle of wine from the restaurant on top of the two Tuna Tartar appetizers, three salads and a dish of pasta. Worth the splurge? Indeed!

Locanda Del Lago on Urbanspoon

Lago Restaurants on Restaurantica

Locanda del Lago Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

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

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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.
  • 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.

Ecco on Urbanspoon

Ecco on Restaurantica

Ecco Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.

SPAGHETTI HOUSE BY ORRIS… “Little Plates With Enormous Flavor!”

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UNFORTUNATELY, THIS RESTAURANT IS NOW CLOSED.

When my husband and I rave to others about the petite revamped Spaghetti House by Orris, they commonly inquire what the name means. After doing a bit of research, we found that the word “orris” is the root of the iris plant, which in age-old times it was combined with cinnamon and other spices to create love potions. Ironically, the name suits this establishment because when you dine at this eatery, you will feel, smell and taste love all around you. Don’t let the name on the building’s facade fool you, however. Just because it still says ‘Orris’, and because the menu says ‘Orris’ when it’s presented to you, and your check says ‘Orris Restaurant’ at the top, you ARE in deed at Spaghetti House by Orris!

Chef Hideo Yamashiro, known as Chef “Shiro” to most, closed down his original “Orris” restaurant at the quaint neighborhood location earlier this year in January. However, upon re-opening the same locale shortly thereafter, and renaming it Spaghetti House by Orris, it was transformed into a Japanese-essenced fusion pasta eatery. Chef Shiro also operates and owns Shiro restaurant in Pasadena, which we will HAVE to try on our next trek there. If the food at Spaghetti House by Orris is even the slightest indication of the experience of flavorsome cuisine we’ll find at Shiro, I know we’ll be happy to try it there as well.

Open for dinner only, and closed on Mondays, the open kitchen you will witness as you enter Spaghetti House by Orris is fun, bright and incredibly busy. At your first step through the front door, the savory aromas wafting throughout the restaurant will pull you inside and prove to your culinary intelligence that you have arrived at the right establishment for a meal not to soon be forgotten.

Above, Japanese glass bowls ornament the wall directly across from the open kitchen area, a glass of Cabernet before dinner, the chalk-written menu specials of the evening, a view of the kitchen staff in motion, the front of the menu, the posted sidewalk menu outside of the restaurant as you enter the establishment’s front patio, a view of one of the kitchen staff preparing a diner’s selection and a photo of the front patio dining space.

The menu is limited, but the selection will amaze your palate and visual senses. The dishes are pleasurable. Plain and simple. Chef Shiro is known for being “meticulously picky” about his fresh ingredients. The photos below are witness to that, and what we experienced at Spaghetti House by Orris recently…

Salmon Croquettes

Above and below, we started with Chef Shiro’s Salmon Croquettes. Quite a colorful and brilliant presentation. When cut into below, it just kept getting better. Delicious creamy salmon inside, a flavorful light crunch on the exterior texture and all around deliciousness! Other than my thinking about just a tiny spritz of lemon juice on these beautiful bites, they were sensational!

We then tried the Grilled Japanese Eggplant with Burrata and Parmesan below…tender slow-cooked eggplant, Burrata and Parmesan cheeses on top and flavor that just would not stop…

Japanese Grilled Eggplant With Burrata & Parmesan

Below, the Albacore Cups really impressed me personally. Hitting a hight point with me, the arugula surrounding the endive filled with seared Albacore tuna was such a delightful treat…beneath all that arugula lies perfectly seared Albacore tuna resting in the fresh leaves of endive…

Albacore Cups

After tasting three different savory appetizers, we moved on to the entrees. Below, the Shrimp Mouse Ravioli in A Shiitake Mushroom Sauce…delicate ravioli casings filled with savory shrimp mousse heightened even more by the Shiitake mushroom sauce it was accompanied by. Perfection in a bowl…

Shrimp Mouse Ravioli In A Shiitake Mushroom Sauce

Next, we tasted the Seafood Marinara dish below. A popular choice among locals at the restaurant and recommended by the waitstaff at the eatery…tender, perfectly-cooked sizeable scallops, shrimp and calamari intertwined with delicious and flavorful unforgettable marinara sauce and spaghetti with fresh tomatoes and basil…

Seafood Marinara

Our next selection was the pasta with a braised meat sauce, which was phenomenal. My husband could not stop exclaiming his love of this dish as the evening progressed…

Spaghetti & Meat Sauce

Below, the Mushrooms and Takana Mustard Greens with White Wine and Garlic was astounding. I chose this specifically, and my husband ate most of it before I could get back to it. A hidden sweetness, seemingly from caramelized onions in the dish, presented a refreshing flavor. A hearty and well-balanced finish…

Mushrooms & Takana Mustard Greens With White Wine & Garlic

We succumed to our sweet tooth after dinner by sharing a scoop of the Fogleman’s Chocolate Ice Cream. (Can I use the term “heaven in a bowl” twice in this article?) I especially liked the presentation…simple and effortless, the ice cream was served in a frosted dish that both served to keep the dessert cool as well as provide a visually-stimulating display…

Folgleman’s Chocolate Ice Cream

The bottom line…we enjoyed our culinary endeavor when we dined at Spaghetti House by Orris. Would we go back? Yes, we would. The cuisine is delicious and meticulously presented, flavor abounds in everything and one can tell that careful planning and artistic flair went into each dish designed and created by Chef Shiro himself. We enjoyed our dinner and were happy to write this review about such a terrific little restaurant!

  • ESTABLISHMENT / DECOR: This eatery can get pretty packed, and reservations are not taken, so be prepared to wait a bit if you’re planning on dining here. There are tables on the covered front patio, but the waiters weren’t serving outside when we visited. The noise level inside was very loud, due to the acoustics of the small interior dining room. However, the colorful glass Japanese bowls hung on one wall, interior general feel of the place, business of the action in the open kitchen, aromas of the delicious dishes being prepared and finally, the flavor of the food ordered will force you to overlook the loudness of your neighbors dining around you.
  • FOOD / DRINK: Scrumptious cuisine, meticulous presentation, and well worth waiting if needed to get into this great little pasta house!
  • LOCATION: The restaurant is located at 2006 Sawtelle Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA 90025. It’s on the east side of Sawtelle Boulevard between Santa Monica and Olympic
  • HOURS: Spaghetti House by Orris is open only for dinner. Tuesday through Friday from 6 PM – 9:30 PM, Saturdays from 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM, Sundays from 5:30 PM – 9 PM, and the restaurant is closed on Mondays.
  • SERVICE / STAFF: Helpful, ready to answer questions and give suggestions is needed.
  • PRICE / VALUE: We feel the price is well worth the value of what you will get at this eatery.
  • CORKAGE FEE: $12 per bottle.
  • PARKING: Metered street parking is available. There is also parking behind the restaurant.
  • TOTAL BILL: Our total bill for everything came to over $65, but we would definitely recommending the splurge. A party of two could easily go to dinner for under $50 (including tax) by ordering two entrees for $11 or $12 a piece, sharing an appetizer and also a dessert.

Spaghetti House by Orris on Urbanspoon Orris Restaurant Reviews

* Menu and prices subject to change without notice.