Thursday, April 18, 2013
BreWingz - Spring Cypress & 249
Is the same as the Wings N More that was there before, the only difference is they changed the bleu cheese dressing you dip the wings in. And now you know! :o)
Monday, February 11, 2013
Napolis Restaurant & Pizza
Napoli's is located at Jones Road and Grant Road. It is more on Jones set back a bit from Grant on the northern side.
It is a family Italian restaurant. They also have a mighty fine pizza. What I normally get though is the Manicotti. The cheese inside this tube of delightful taste is so creamy it melts in your mouth.
However before you even get to that part you are given the choice of house or caeser salad. My friends do not choose either of these. While they may be good you would be doing yourself a disservice. Ask for the small greek salad instead and prepare to have your taste buds tantalized. With the capers, feta cheese, calamata olives, homemade greek dressing, and the most amazingly sweet red onions. Seriously I would eat that onion like an apple, and I am here to tell you friends I do have an onion threshold. These are unlike any I've had before. Love the salad, can you tell? They also serve Italian bread with butter. I like to sprinkle a little sea salt on the situation. So good.
Back to the Manicotti. It is served bathed in sauce and covered with mozarella cheese. If you ever see me there and are seating near me forgive the noises you hear coming from my table. I am in heaven for those six to seven bites. I always have leftovers, because after bread, salad, and one Manicotti I am completely satisfied.
I am very lucky as well, because they deliver to my house. I can not tell you how awesome it is to be able to eat that entree when I do not feel so well.
I would definitely recommend going to Napoli's and enjoying some down home Italian food.
It is a family Italian restaurant. They also have a mighty fine pizza. What I normally get though is the Manicotti. The cheese inside this tube of delightful taste is so creamy it melts in your mouth.
However before you even get to that part you are given the choice of house or caeser salad. My friends do not choose either of these. While they may be good you would be doing yourself a disservice. Ask for the small greek salad instead and prepare to have your taste buds tantalized. With the capers, feta cheese, calamata olives, homemade greek dressing, and the most amazingly sweet red onions. Seriously I would eat that onion like an apple, and I am here to tell you friends I do have an onion threshold. These are unlike any I've had before. Love the salad, can you tell? They also serve Italian bread with butter. I like to sprinkle a little sea salt on the situation. So good.
Back to the Manicotti. It is served bathed in sauce and covered with mozarella cheese. If you ever see me there and are seating near me forgive the noises you hear coming from my table. I am in heaven for those six to seven bites. I always have leftovers, because after bread, salad, and one Manicotti I am completely satisfied.
I am very lucky as well, because they deliver to my house. I can not tell you how awesome it is to be able to eat that entree when I do not feel so well.
I would definitely recommend going to Napoli's and enjoying some down home Italian food.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Hanks Cajun Grill
A good friend of mine took me to Hanks Cajun Grill. She said that it is her favorite place to get crawfish, and not only when in season, but all year long.
It was me, my friend, and my husband and we set off on a dreary Sunday afternoon headed to put in our bellies some delicious cajun food. Hank's is located off of Highway 6 near Clay Road.
First I ordered a few boudin balls, and they hit the spot for my constant boudin craving. The breading was tasty; the only thing I felt was lacking was in the spice department. They were served with ranch a simple sprinkle of cajun seasoning in it would have solved the issue. The crawfish I ordered tasted so good, but I would have ordered the medium spice, because I do enjoy a bit more burn. My friend had scared me into ordering the mild, because she said that sometimes the mild is even pretty spicy. Luckily I got to polish off my husband's rest of his medium spice. My husband also ordered garlic on his, and I am really thinking that is the way to go.
If you order two pounds you should be good, but if you usually put away a lot of crawfish like my friend she ordered four pounds and ate every last bit of it. She also ordered the Mardi Gras Oysters and let me have one. Heaven on a half shell I tell ya!
My husband also ordered some fried crab claws, which were yummy, I would like to tried the grilled version. After we had put back a decent amount of crawfish my husband ordered some fried aligator which was pretty good too. It kind of reminded me of chicken fried steak to be honest, maybe a bit chewier.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed Hank's and will return often.
It was me, my friend, and my husband and we set off on a dreary Sunday afternoon headed to put in our bellies some delicious cajun food. Hank's is located off of Highway 6 near Clay Road.
First I ordered a few boudin balls, and they hit the spot for my constant boudin craving. The breading was tasty; the only thing I felt was lacking was in the spice department. They were served with ranch a simple sprinkle of cajun seasoning in it would have solved the issue. The crawfish I ordered tasted so good, but I would have ordered the medium spice, because I do enjoy a bit more burn. My friend had scared me into ordering the mild, because she said that sometimes the mild is even pretty spicy. Luckily I got to polish off my husband's rest of his medium spice. My husband also ordered garlic on his, and I am really thinking that is the way to go.
If you order two pounds you should be good, but if you usually put away a lot of crawfish like my friend she ordered four pounds and ate every last bit of it. She also ordered the Mardi Gras Oysters and let me have one. Heaven on a half shell I tell ya!
My husband also ordered some fried crab claws, which were yummy, I would like to tried the grilled version. After we had put back a decent amount of crawfish my husband ordered some fried aligator which was pretty good too. It kind of reminded me of chicken fried steak to be honest, maybe a bit chewier.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed Hank's and will return often.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Zake - Friend's Birthday
I was informed that this restaurant was very beautiful before they started their renovation.
I have a bad habit judging a restaurant by their bathrooms. Where I would have to say they could use some attention at Zake. The women's restaurant actually ran out of toilet paper that evening.
The music in the restaurant kept turning itself off several times throughout the meal.
The service was slow, but with a party on Saturday night off of Shepherd I would expect some wait. Luckily the company was good so the wait wasn't unbearable.
Some of the other guests that sat across from me ordered soup which they were never brought. I ordered just a shot of hot sake and was brought a whole container of it.
The two rolls I had were the Shaggy Dog and the 3-1-4 Roll. The Shaggy dog was just okay, and the crab left something to be desired. I have had a better quality one at HEB. The 3-1-4 roll however was quite scrumptious! It had white fish, shrimp tempura, peppered tuna, and white tuna. Along with some of the other usual roll ingredients.
The sake was also good. Different than others I have had in the past.
Edamame was ordered for everyone and was a fitting snack.
The last thing I would like to mention is the fact that the gentleman at the front desk gave off a very strange, almost agitated vibe.
I do not think I will be returning on my own accord anytime soon.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Tenshi - Update
A friend and I went back to Tenshi the other day, and I have to tell you my return visit was not so good.
The biggest affront would have to be the fact that the sushi was not very cold. Which we all know raises many concerns.
This time I sat at the bar in front of where the sushi was being made, and soon wish I hadn't.
The sushi chefs were probably in there early twenties. One seemed to take his job with the seriousness required but the other was loud and spoke about marijuana and partying with a friend also sitting at the bar. Another of the patrons was loud in his manner of speaking in hopes to get everyone to look at him.
I noticed the probable cause of the not to temperature sushi. The area where the sushi was being kept colds doors were constantly being left wide open. I do not believe i saw them shut the doors one time.
I think until I hear by word of mouth that things have changed I will not be returning.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Palate Adventurers: Third Quarter 2011 Gathering - Reef Houston
The idea to go to Reef came from seeing it on the show The Best Thing I Ever Ate on the Food Channel.
And even though it is primarily a seafood restaurant it ended up making the show due to another menu item.
It was the biggest pork chop I've seen in my life!!
We made our reservations and headed downtown. Upon arriving we parked at a nearby empty lot and upon walking up discovered a sign that said free valet. So when we return we will take their polite offer and save us some of the stress of parking in a large city.
Upon entering the hostess left something to be desired when asked simple procedural questions. We arrived a tad early and stood in the bar area while we waited. The hostess said that she would let us know when our table was ready. When I glanced down at the time I noticed it was getting close to being ten minutes past the time we were supposed to be there. I went over to ask the lady if our table was ready and she looked at me in that way people do to make youfeel two inches tall.
I went back to the bar and gathered the group and we headed to the table. While walking I took in the atmosphere of Reef. I felt almost as if I was dining on the bottom of the sea but not in the bright primary colors type of way but in a more of a shimmery mermaid's tail tone. Our table was along one of the walls and the wall was a work of art in itself. A beautiful interpretation of waves textured upon it.
We perused the menu and planned out our unique Reef experiences. I enjoyed a shrimp shooter at the suggestion of friends who had been there before. It was not my cup of tea but another one of the adventurers, whose taste it did fit, said that it was very enjoyable. My perspective was that it was too much tart tomatoness going on for me.
For my entree I ordered the andouille sausage scallops. The scallops were very good. It was as if they took the andouille sausage thread it through a needle then weaved the sausage through the scallop. It was amazing. The sear on the top and bottom of the scallop was perfect. The sausage added a little something to the caramelization. The cook was definitely spot on. My only complaint would be that the menu did not quite explain my meal enough to me. I did not know what the sauces were on my plate.
I figured out the orange colored food was perhaps a sweet potato concoction. After looking at the menu while writing this is, it appears that their food changes, so I am not sure if that is why they cannot explain their food on their menus.
What I have come to discern here is that Reef is either too fancy of a place for me, or they could use some work in helping the diner know what they are eating. Here is my example of why I feel this way. I put my scallop, which I had already enjoyed two of them and they tasted wonderful, in a sauce that was provided. I put it in my mouth, and not a few minutes later my mouth went numb and tingly. It was not a bad thing necessarily, but when I was not expecting such a change I was taken by surprise. The words 'food allergy' ran through my head. It went away after a few minutes and I was fine. Me being a big customer service person I had to ask myself, Is being trendy or saving money worth scaring your customers?
I am sad to say that I cannot report on the potato, salad combo that was served alongside of my scallops, because they just did not stand out to me. Maybe they were lost next to my suprising experience, and the best piece of pork I have every had in my life. Which is what my husband ordered.
The Big Pork Chop is a double chop that they lay over a bed of chunky, spicy vegetables. Please do not quote me on this but I think they brine it, smoke it, bake it, then sear it, and then it magically floats to your table complete with glowing light and heavenly music because it is that good . I never knew that so much love could go into a piece of meat, I only received a few bites of the thing. He did share with everyone to make sure they all got a taste of that awesome hunk of pork. Those few bites I did have were tender and the juice that was pouring out of it had the most flavorful taste. I felt you could taste all the time that went into it. It vaguely reminded me of the way when you fry a turkey and it holds all of its own juices inside of it. Since he was the one who ordered it I felt compelled to tell you that my husband says that it was executed perfectly, and it could not have been better. The only thing left to say about this absolute pork dream is, Go get this pork chop.
The coffee we were served was a tad bit on the strong side for me, but for someone else's taste it might have been on point. It did not seem as if it was burnt or old, it was just too bitter for my enjoyment.
The desert I chose was a chocolate lover's dream. It had so many different layers of chocolatey goodness I cannot remember them. It was a cylinder of 2 to 2 1/2 inches high and about three inches across. On the top it had a dollop of chocolate whip cream with a piece of a chocolate tuile crowning it. It also was accompanied by a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream resting upon a generous pile of crushed up cookie or crust of some sort.
I also had a bit of one of the cheese cakes that were ordered, and it was so silky and smooth. I couldn't complain one bit about the quality of the dessert. I may order that next time when we go back.
And even though it is primarily a seafood restaurant it ended up making the show due to another menu item.
It was the biggest pork chop I've seen in my life!!
We made our reservations and headed downtown. Upon arriving we parked at a nearby empty lot and upon walking up discovered a sign that said free valet. So when we return we will take their polite offer and save us some of the stress of parking in a large city.
Upon entering the hostess left something to be desired when asked simple procedural questions. We arrived a tad early and stood in the bar area while we waited. The hostess said that she would let us know when our table was ready. When I glanced down at the time I noticed it was getting close to being ten minutes past the time we were supposed to be there. I went over to ask the lady if our table was ready and she looked at me in that way people do to make you
I went back to the bar and gathered the group and we headed to the table. While walking I took in the atmosphere of Reef. I felt almost as if I was dining on the bottom of the sea but not in the bright primary colors type of way but in a more of a shimmery mermaid's tail tone. Our table was along one of the walls and the wall was a work of art in itself. A beautiful interpretation of waves textured upon it.
We perused the menu and planned out our unique Reef experiences. I enjoyed a shrimp shooter at the suggestion of friends who had been there before. It was not my cup of tea but another one of the adventurers, whose taste it did fit, said that it was very enjoyable. My perspective was that it was too much tart tomatoness going on for me.
For my entree I ordered the andouille sausage scallops. The scallops were very good. It was as if they took the andouille sausage thread it through a needle then weaved the sausage through the scallop. It was amazing. The sear on the top and bottom of the scallop was perfect. The sausage added a little something to the caramelization. The cook was definitely spot on. My only complaint would be that the menu did not quite explain my meal enough to me. I did not know what the sauces were on my plate.
I figured out the orange colored food was perhaps a sweet potato concoction. After looking at the menu while writing this is, it appears that their food changes, so I am not sure if that is why they cannot explain their food on their menus.
What I have come to discern here is that Reef is either too fancy of a place for me, or they could use some work in helping the diner know what they are eating. Here is my example of why I feel this way. I put my scallop, which I had already enjoyed two of them and they tasted wonderful, in a sauce that was provided. I put it in my mouth, and not a few minutes later my mouth went numb and tingly. It was not a bad thing necessarily, but when I was not expecting such a change I was taken by surprise. The words 'food allergy' ran through my head. It went away after a few minutes and I was fine. Me being a big customer service person I had to ask myself, Is being trendy or saving money worth scaring your customers?
I am sad to say that I cannot report on the potato, salad combo that was served alongside of my scallops, because they just did not stand out to me. Maybe they were lost next to my suprising experience, and the best piece of pork I have every had in my life. Which is what my husband ordered.
The Big Pork Chop is a double chop that they lay over a bed of chunky, spicy vegetables. Please do not quote me on this but I think they brine it, smoke it, bake it, then sear it, and then it magically floats to your table complete with glowing light and heavenly music because it is that good . I never knew that so much love could go into a piece of meat, I only received a few bites of the thing. He did share with everyone to make sure they all got a taste of that awesome hunk of pork. Those few bites I did have were tender and the juice that was pouring out of it had the most flavorful taste. I felt you could taste all the time that went into it. It vaguely reminded me of the way when you fry a turkey and it holds all of its own juices inside of it. Since he was the one who ordered it I felt compelled to tell you that my husband says that it was executed perfectly, and it could not have been better. The only thing left to say about this absolute pork dream is, Go get this pork chop.
The coffee we were served was a tad bit on the strong side for me, but for someone else's taste it might have been on point. It did not seem as if it was burnt or old, it was just too bitter for my enjoyment.
The desert I chose was a chocolate lover's dream. It had so many different layers of chocolatey goodness I cannot remember them. It was a cylinder of 2 to 2 1/2 inches high and about three inches across. On the top it had a dollop of chocolate whip cream with a piece of a chocolate tuile crowning it. It also was accompanied by a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream resting upon a generous pile of crushed up cookie or crust of some sort.
I also had a bit of one of the cheese cakes that were ordered, and it was so silky and smooth. I couldn't complain one bit about the quality of the dessert. I may order that next time when we go back.
I would return time and again for that pork chop I have to tell you!
Monday, June 25, 2012
Roving Eater's Report: Barney's Country Store - Huntsville, TX
My husband and I went off roading with his father and his girlfriend this weekend for a late Father's Day celebration. We had a wonderful time and had the best hamburger at a place called Barney's Country store.
This place is located at the intersection of FM 1696 and Highway 75. If you don't see it then go a little more south and it will be on your left in a red steel building because FM 1696 does a jog.
This hamburger is just plain done right. The bun is a sweet Hawaiian extra large roll. The patties are 3/4lb and seasoned to perfection. When they throw a row of burgers on the grill the garlic fills the air. The vegetables were fresh and crisp.
We went and bought two to share with our guys for a type of brunch, and ended up going back and having our own for dinner. (My father-in-law and his girlfriend did share one again.)
They were so good we could not get through eating them without saying so for at least ten times. They even warranted a few comments after they were gone!
The atmosphere is definitely country store. If you happen to find yourself in Huntsville it would be worth a stop.
This place is located at the intersection of FM 1696 and Highway 75. If you don't see it then go a little more south and it will be on your left in a red steel building because FM 1696 does a jog.
This hamburger is just plain done right. The bun is a sweet Hawaiian extra large roll. The patties are 3/4lb and seasoned to perfection. When they throw a row of burgers on the grill the garlic fills the air. The vegetables were fresh and crisp.
We went and bought two to share with our guys for a type of brunch, and ended up going back and having our own for dinner. (My father-in-law and his girlfriend did share one again.)
They were so good we could not get through eating them without saying so for at least ten times. They even warranted a few comments after they were gone!
The atmosphere is definitely country store. If you happen to find yourself in Huntsville it would be worth a stop.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Guest Post: Rachel - The Whispering Pines Inn - Norman, Oklahoma
Last week my husband had a conference in Oklahoma City. My parents live about 30 minutes south of there in Norman, so they watched our baby one evening while he and I went to dinner for an early anniversary date. At the recommendation of my dad we went to Whispering Pines Inn. It's a bed and breakfast place in the country that does weddings and serves dinner by reservation only.
The evening was exquisite. You drive up a dirt road to an adorable two-story house with a wrap around porch, nestled among trees. The dining area was very intimate, only holding about 10 tables spread among three rooms with open doorways. My husband & I were the only ones in our "room", another party was having a birthday dinner in the back. It was relaxing and romantic, the service was perfect. It was so great to go with him because we rarely eat out (mostly because of cost and sitting down to enjoy a dinner is almost impossible with a baby) and this was our first date since our baby's birth 10 months ago.
I had the soup of the day, a sherry mushroom soup with brie. It was served with homemade house rolls and a herb butter. My husband ordered the sweet corn and crab bisque. Both were very good. A citrus sorbet palate cleanser was served before our entrees.
For dinner I chose the night's special: lobster tail sauteed with wild mushrooms and tomatoes in a tarragon cream sauce that was so rich and creamy and buttery and delightful. I think I could have just eaten a bowl of the sauce...well, the lobster tail was wonderful too. My husband had a new york strip steak that was perfection. Both of our entrees were served with fancy scalloped potatoes, asparagus, and zucchini. Since we were celebrating our anniversary, we received a complimentary dessert. We shared the creme brulee, which was bigger than expected and the best way to end our dinner.
Ahh...that tarragon cream sauce, I could eat more right now.
We don't eat at fancy places like that, so it was a real treat. And so delicious. If you are ever in Oklahoma and want a fancy dinner, I would highly recommend Whispering Pines.
The Whispering Pines Inn Website
The evening was exquisite. You drive up a dirt road to an adorable two-story house with a wrap around porch, nestled among trees. The dining area was very intimate, only holding about 10 tables spread among three rooms with open doorways. My husband & I were the only ones in our "room", another party was having a birthday dinner in the back. It was relaxing and romantic, the service was perfect. It was so great to go with him because we rarely eat out (mostly because of cost and sitting down to enjoy a dinner is almost impossible with a baby) and this was our first date since our baby's birth 10 months ago.
I had the soup of the day, a sherry mushroom soup with brie. It was served with homemade house rolls and a herb butter. My husband ordered the sweet corn and crab bisque. Both were very good. A citrus sorbet palate cleanser was served before our entrees.
For dinner I chose the night's special: lobster tail sauteed with wild mushrooms and tomatoes in a tarragon cream sauce that was so rich and creamy and buttery and delightful. I think I could have just eaten a bowl of the sauce...well, the lobster tail was wonderful too. My husband had a new york strip steak that was perfection. Both of our entrees were served with fancy scalloped potatoes, asparagus, and zucchini. Since we were celebrating our anniversary, we received a complimentary dessert. We shared the creme brulee, which was bigger than expected and the best way to end our dinner.
Ahh...that tarragon cream sauce, I could eat more right now.
We don't eat at fancy places like that, so it was a real treat. And so delicious. If you are ever in Oklahoma and want a fancy dinner, I would highly recommend Whispering Pines.
The Whispering Pines Inn Website
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Roving Eater's Report - Elephant Bar Restaurant - Peoria, AZ
I recently was blessed enough to be able to go visit my family in Arizona
The plan for Friday was my niece was going to pick me up and we were going to my step-brother’s house to hang out until I had to head to the airport. My niece had been up all night doing the early black Friday shopping so she was running behind. We also had not eaten lunch and were running out of time. My step-brother suggested we just meet for lunch and then head to the airport to fly out. My regret had been absolved!
We all met up at one of his favorite restaurants the Elephant Bar Restaurant. They were already seated when my niece and I arrived. They ordered us the global sampler appetizer which encompassed Niu, Niu Coconut Fried Shrimp Skewers, Fried Chicken Tenders, Bruschetta, and Warm & Spicy Artichoke Dip. It was served with two different sauces one being a more glazed, sweet sauce, and the other being more of a creamy, savory sauce.
After trying each piece of the appetizer I went to the task of deciding what I wanted for lunch. Their menu is huge! I would suggest possibly looking online before you go to give yourself more time to prepare on deciding what you would like to try. Upon gazing mesmerized at the menu I noticed that on the lunch menu they had fish and chips and they made it with Mahi Mahi! My favorite fish! It was called the Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish & Chips. Typically you see fish and chips made with Cod. My step-brother even asked me what kind of fish it was and was surprised when I told him. I also had an amazing margarita, which was just their house margarita.
The restaurant had a worldly feel to it. With art pieces that made me feel as if I was inAfrica .
The waitress we had was extremely nice. My sister-in-law asked that her Ahi Tuna be a little bit more done than they would typically prepare it. Even though the waitress did not seem optimistic about being able to take care of her request; she was able to sweet talk the chef, and delivered the food as requested.
I do have to report that the crunchiness on all these fried items was just amazing. I know I have never had Panko Japanese bread crumbs before, and of course I cannot tell you if these were those. If they were not I would like to find out what they were, because the crunch on these things rivaled no other!
Regretfully our lunch was cut shorter than we would have liked due to the fact that the time for my flight was fast approaching. We all hugged and kissed goodbye and spoke about hopes of seeing each other sooner than the last time. Six years is just too long. I feel as if I ended my trip on a high note. Well a high note in my world, because as we all know food is the highlight of my life!
I would definitely stop into an Elephant Bar Restaurant again if I am traveling and need some world cuisine.
The plan for Friday was my niece was going to pick me up and we were going to my step-brother’s house to hang out until I had to head to the airport. My niece had been up all night doing the early black Friday shopping so she was running behind. We also had not eaten lunch and were running out of time. My step-brother suggested we just meet for lunch and then head to the airport to fly out. My regret had been absolved!
We all met up at one of his favorite restaurants the Elephant Bar Restaurant. They were already seated when my niece and I arrived. They ordered us the global sampler appetizer which encompassed Niu, Niu Coconut Fried Shrimp Skewers, Fried Chicken Tenders, Bruschetta, and Warm & Spicy Artichoke Dip. It was served with two different sauces one being a more glazed, sweet sauce, and the other being more of a creamy, savory sauce.
After trying each piece of the appetizer I went to the task of deciding what I wanted for lunch. Their menu is huge! I would suggest possibly looking online before you go to give yourself more time to prepare on deciding what you would like to try. Upon gazing mesmerized at the menu I noticed that on the lunch menu they had fish and chips and they made it with Mahi Mahi! My favorite fish! It was called the Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish & Chips. Typically you see fish and chips made with Cod. My step-brother even asked me what kind of fish it was and was surprised when I told him. I also had an amazing margarita, which was just their house margarita.
The restaurant had a worldly feel to it. With art pieces that made me feel as if I was in
The waitress we had was extremely nice. My sister-in-law asked that her Ahi Tuna be a little bit more done than they would typically prepare it. Even though the waitress did not seem optimistic about being able to take care of her request; she was able to sweet talk the chef, and delivered the food as requested.
I do have to report that the crunchiness on all these fried items was just amazing. I know I have never had Panko Japanese bread crumbs before, and of course I cannot tell you if these were those. If they were not I would like to find out what they were, because the crunch on these things rivaled no other!
Regretfully our lunch was cut shorter than we would have liked due to the fact that the time for my flight was fast approaching. We all hugged and kissed goodbye and spoke about hopes of seeing each other sooner than the last time. Six years is just too long. I feel as if I ended my trip on a high note. Well a high note in my world, because as we all know food is the highlight of my life!
I would definitely stop into an Elephant Bar Restaurant again if I am traveling and need some world cuisine.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
New Place Report: Tenshi Sushi & Japanese Noodle
My favorite sushi experience was not my first sushi experience. Unfortunately for years my only brush with sushi was at Chinese buffets. I know what you are thinking ewwwww gross!! But please trust in my ability to not eat sushi that was disgusting. I only ate it at two or three places that I felt safe at, but I still didn't understand the difference of eating at a true sushi restaurant.
Knowing that my husband had no interest in trying sushi I went ahead and planned my birthday party at a sushi place! I know I'm a smart cookie aren't I? :o) I was just about to do or had just done a Palate Adventurers get together and I just didn't feel up to driving half way across the city for my birthday. I googled the top ten sushi restaurants and Tenshi was the only one on the north side. It is located near the intersection of Jones & Fallbrook on Jones Road.
I am going to admit to you that I was really nervous about trying raw fish for the first time. At the buffets where I felt comfortable enough to eat the sushi I still played it rather safe and did not eat anything I couldn't identify and stuck to the safer rolls such as the California Roll. After we had been seated my worry about the raw fish having a texture that I couldn't handle grew. I was making comments here and there mostly half under my breath of my worry. I finally vented my fears to my fifteen year old niece who is wise beyond her years and this is how the conversation that made my night progressed: Her: "Do you like boiled peanuts? Me: "No!" Her: "Exactly! If they were crunchy; everyone would like them. It is a texture issue. Get over it!" And folks that is just what I did.
I ended up ordering the chef's special which included a California Roll, two sushi's (raw fish on top of sticky white rice) including salmon and tuna, and two sashimi's (just plain raw fish) which was fatty tuna and yellow fin tuna. I have to say my favorite was the yellow fin tuna which was served with tiny slices of lemon that took the freshness to an even new level.
Speaking about the freshness I had mentioned before not realizing the difference between the buffet sushi and the restaurant sushi. The freshness is it. That is the difference. I have mentioned before the taste of the steam of Jason's Deli's steamed veggies. The freshness of sushi is the same; almost indescribable. The best way I can try to explain it would be to say it is literally the freshest tasting food you've ever tasted in your life. Freshness to the umpteen power!
I was also able to enjoy a friends Fried Shrimp Roll which I feel has to be American influence on sushi. We sure do like to fry things. I have to say it sure was delicious. I am sure I tried a few other's rolls, but after a certain point of everyone passing you a sample of their roll they ordered the names become fuzzy. Especially being my first time enjoying real sushi and as well being the birthday girl everyone wanted me to try everything. Which I happily obliged.
As far as beverages go I of course had to do a little Sake sipping. I would describe Sake as stronger, better tasting Vodka. I only had one tiny little cup, because if you are not careful you could find yourself very inebriated, very fast.
Tenshi happens to be a smaller restaurant. It is tucked onto the end of a small strip center. It is a very beautiful and comfortable place. They have two rooms enclosed by traditional Japanese doors you can reserve if you so choose, but me personally I always find myself wanting to be on the main floor. It makes the atmosphere of the meal for me. With my party of fifteen to twenty people we filled almost half of the restaurant, and again even though the place was on the smaller side I never felt cramped.
I tried my hardest to eat my food with the chopsticks, and every bit of me did not want to have to ask for a fork. I eventually however gave in. I have eaten sushi a few times with chopsticks since my birthday and have acquired better skill. There was just no sense at the time getting frustrated on my birthday because of two silly wooden sticks. Just as a credit to myself just the other day I had eaten almost an entire ginger salad with chopsticks alone! It was difficult, but definitely good practice.
One other thing I wanted to speak with y'all about is the to dip or not to dip question. Everyone obviously has their own palate. So when I was introduced to sushi the first time I was instructed on what to make to dip my sushi in. What I have always done is to gather about three or four pieces of ginger and place them in my sauce tray. Then I take a bee bee size of wasabi and set it on the ginger. Next I take the soy and pour a lake for the ginger and wasabi to live in. I commence mixing the things together really just to dissolve the wasabi into the soy. That is my happy mixture. I love salt therefore I love soy. I also love ginger especially as a dressing on a salad. Which I did order and enjoy.
So that evening I was told that the ginger is supposed to be used as a palate cleanser in between bites. Call me crazy and set in my ways, but I think I will be sticking to the way I've always done it. To each their own I say! One other way to eat the sushi is to not dip at all which is what I watched my niece mostly do. I did try it and the sushi doesn't necessarily need to be dipped, but like I said before I sure do like that salty, gingery, clean your sinsus' out hotness. Now I find myself doing both. Some rolls just don't pair well with my mixture and that's okay. I just try to stay open even if I am set with certain ways. I may really enjoy that, but it also won't stop me from having a few bites without.
So I have been saving the best part for last. My niece being an adventurous eater (a girl after my own heart) ordered a bite (I'm not sure what else to call it; it wasn't a whole roll) which consisted of raw fish eggs wrapped in sea weed topped with a raw quail egg. We all stared as it was brought to her, and she looked a little embarrassed with all eyes on her. I am sure she will soon learn if she has not already if you are the brave enough one to try something crazy you are most likely going to get everyone's full attention. As she placed it in her mouth and got the sushi puffy cheeks she just nodded at the fact that it was yummy and not scary or disgusting at all. What a brave one she is.
I hope you have enjoyed me sharing my birthday dinning experience with you as much as I have! Happy Reading & Eating! <3
Knowing that my husband had no interest in trying sushi I went ahead and planned my birthday party at a sushi place! I know I'm a smart cookie aren't I? :o) I was just about to do or had just done a Palate Adventurers get together and I just didn't feel up to driving half way across the city for my birthday. I googled the top ten sushi restaurants and Tenshi was the only one on the north side. It is located near the intersection of Jones & Fallbrook on Jones Road.
I am going to admit to you that I was really nervous about trying raw fish for the first time. At the buffets where I felt comfortable enough to eat the sushi I still played it rather safe and did not eat anything I couldn't identify and stuck to the safer rolls such as the California Roll. After we had been seated my worry about the raw fish having a texture that I couldn't handle grew. I was making comments here and there mostly half under my breath of my worry. I finally vented my fears to my fifteen year old niece who is wise beyond her years and this is how the conversation that made my night progressed: Her: "Do you like boiled peanuts? Me: "No!" Her: "Exactly! If they were crunchy; everyone would like them. It is a texture issue. Get over it!" And folks that is just what I did.
I ended up ordering the chef's special which included a California Roll, two sushi's (raw fish on top of sticky white rice) including salmon and tuna, and two sashimi's (just plain raw fish) which was fatty tuna and yellow fin tuna. I have to say my favorite was the yellow fin tuna which was served with tiny slices of lemon that took the freshness to an even new level.
Speaking about the freshness I had mentioned before not realizing the difference between the buffet sushi and the restaurant sushi. The freshness is it. That is the difference. I have mentioned before the taste of the steam of Jason's Deli's steamed veggies. The freshness of sushi is the same; almost indescribable. The best way I can try to explain it would be to say it is literally the freshest tasting food you've ever tasted in your life. Freshness to the umpteen power!
I was also able to enjoy a friends Fried Shrimp Roll which I feel has to be American influence on sushi. We sure do like to fry things. I have to say it sure was delicious. I am sure I tried a few other's rolls, but after a certain point of everyone passing you a sample of their roll they ordered the names become fuzzy. Especially being my first time enjoying real sushi and as well being the birthday girl everyone wanted me to try everything. Which I happily obliged.
As far as beverages go I of course had to do a little Sake sipping. I would describe Sake as stronger, better tasting Vodka. I only had one tiny little cup, because if you are not careful you could find yourself very inebriated, very fast.
Tenshi happens to be a smaller restaurant. It is tucked onto the end of a small strip center. It is a very beautiful and comfortable place. They have two rooms enclosed by traditional Japanese doors you can reserve if you so choose, but me personally I always find myself wanting to be on the main floor. It makes the atmosphere of the meal for me. With my party of fifteen to twenty people we filled almost half of the restaurant, and again even though the place was on the smaller side I never felt cramped.
I tried my hardest to eat my food with the chopsticks, and every bit of me did not want to have to ask for a fork. I eventually however gave in. I have eaten sushi a few times with chopsticks since my birthday and have acquired better skill. There was just no sense at the time getting frustrated on my birthday because of two silly wooden sticks. Just as a credit to myself just the other day I had eaten almost an entire ginger salad with chopsticks alone! It was difficult, but definitely good practice.
One other thing I wanted to speak with y'all about is the to dip or not to dip question. Everyone obviously has their own palate. So when I was introduced to sushi the first time I was instructed on what to make to dip my sushi in. What I have always done is to gather about three or four pieces of ginger and place them in my sauce tray. Then I take a bee bee size of wasabi and set it on the ginger. Next I take the soy and pour a lake for the ginger and wasabi to live in. I commence mixing the things together really just to dissolve the wasabi into the soy. That is my happy mixture. I love salt therefore I love soy. I also love ginger especially as a dressing on a salad. Which I did order and enjoy.
So that evening I was told that the ginger is supposed to be used as a palate cleanser in between bites. Call me crazy and set in my ways, but I think I will be sticking to the way I've always done it. To each their own I say! One other way to eat the sushi is to not dip at all which is what I watched my niece mostly do. I did try it and the sushi doesn't necessarily need to be dipped, but like I said before I sure do like that salty, gingery, clean your sinsus' out hotness. Now I find myself doing both. Some rolls just don't pair well with my mixture and that's okay. I just try to stay open even if I am set with certain ways. I may really enjoy that, but it also won't stop me from having a few bites without.
So I have been saving the best part for last. My niece being an adventurous eater (a girl after my own heart) ordered a bite (I'm not sure what else to call it; it wasn't a whole roll) which consisted of raw fish eggs wrapped in sea weed topped with a raw quail egg. We all stared as it was brought to her, and she looked a little embarrassed with all eyes on her. I am sure she will soon learn if she has not already if you are the brave enough one to try something crazy you are most likely going to get everyone's full attention. As she placed it in her mouth and got the sushi puffy cheeks she just nodded at the fact that it was yummy and not scary or disgusting at all. What a brave one she is.
I hope you have enjoyed me sharing my birthday dinning experience with you as much as I have! Happy Reading & Eating! <3
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
New Place Report - RA Sushi
I found myself at RA Sushi by way of a friend's birthday party. Upon arriving with my mother (and without my poor husband; him not wishing to partake in sushi enjoyment) we parked easily by the grace of what only could be the parking gods themselves. First spot, first row. That just never happens.
RA Sushi is on the second floor of a high end shopping complex. When you walk through the front door you are greeted by a two story entry room leading you to two choices. Hanging in the large open space is one of the most beautiful chandeliers I've ever seen. It is up to you to decide if you are feeling up to the stairs or prefer a leisure ride up the elevator. As you exit the elevator you are welcomed immediately to your right by the hostess. If choose to take the stairs she is on your left as you ascend to the top. The two meet across from each other.
This next part I am about to inform you of is one you should pay close attention to if you may be planning a get together at RA anytime in the near future. The bar area at RA is first come first serve and in the dining room side reservations are needed. As well your party cannot be seated unless eighty percent are present. We had reservations in the dinning side, but ended up being fine in the bar area and enjoyed our meal on that side.
I was able to try a friend's appetizer which was the "RA"ckin' Shrimp and also the Pineapple Cheese Wontons. The shrimp were spicy and pared well with the sauce provided which was a ginger teriyaki sauce. As well the pineapple wontons were kicked up a notch with the addition of the roasted pineapple sauce. It was a good variation on your typical crab rangoon.
For my meal I ordered the Beef Tataki Roll and the Ultimate Shrimp Tempura Roll. The beef roll was so scrumptious. It came with a sauce that was both a tad sweet with citrus notes and savory like the creamier sauce you get during an hibachi grill dinner. On the menu the roll is described as having artichoke, asparagus, roasted red pepper, and avacado rolled and topped with seared beef; served with a creamy wasabi sauce and drizzled with black pepper soy. It was truly amazing.
The birthday girl also ordered this, and was slightly worried about the fact they ask you if you care about eating raw beef. When the roll came out it ended up being no big deal at all. I would not even refer to the doneness of the beef anywhere near medium rare. At most it was medium to medium well.
As far as dessert is concerned I would have to have you steer away from poor RA with me for a moment. The birthday girl's boyfriend had snuck in a few cupcakes from a local bakery called What's Up Cupcake. I have to tell you I've never had a softer cupcake in my life. It melted in my mouth. Sad to say, but I am not able to provide you with the type of cupcake I enjoyed. I do however have the friend that ordered these cupcakes looking into the matter, and hopefully I may be able to let you know exactly which cupcake I enjoyed. See below for any additional comments to be added at a later date. So even though my dessert was amazing I cannot contribute that to RA.
However a few more perspectives I can offer are as follows: My mom enjoyed a Nutty Chicken Salad. It was big enough for two people to share, and she said that it was very good. I also ordered an alcoholic beverage with my dinner which was a vodka cranberry or a Cape Cod. I happened to take a big swig of my drink before I actually got a good look at it. It was barely colored at all. It was barely even pink let alone red by any means. I asked the waitress for a glass of cranberry on the side and did not have to order any additional drinks that evening.
My final thoughts are that this beautiful restaurant has some amazing sushi, and two different types of atmospheres to enjoy it in. The restaurant side seems to have a more intimate feel while in the bar area you could easily mistake yourself in a club. With the windows sometimes open to the city beyond it is a helluva place to sit eat some of the freshest sushi and enjoy a drink or two. I would definitely venture down to RA Sushi again.
Beef Tataki Roll
RA Sushi Website
What's Up Cupcake Website
Monday, October 24, 2011
Usual Spots Report - Locatelli's Pizza
Locatelli’s Pizza is a pick up and dine in only pizza shop. The thing that makes you want to choose them over their delivery brethren is the fact that they use only the freshest ingredients. As well as the fact that they have a perfect crust living happily between a hand tossed and a thin.
The restaurant is located in that same gem of a shopping center as Mezzanote Ristorante at Louetta and Grant road.
Now let’s get back to those ingredients. My husband never fails to get heart burn on pizza night. We typically order our pizza light sauce to lessen the burn for him later. With Locatelli’s we have found that on those nights when we forget to say our special request; my husband has admitted theirs does not create the furnace inside him as bad as the others tend to.
They also support the local community by hiring high school kids.
I have ordered their salads and was not disappointed in their continued quality and freshness of their ingredients.
The one area that I personally cannot give the highest marks would be in the dessert department. I applaud their efforts to bring some unique desserts, but with poor execution no idea is going to be a great one. The ones that I have tried include their Stick in the Mud, S.O.S., and their Powdered Pizza Skin. I have always taken these back to my home to enjoy, so I do not know if they may be better had in the restaurant.
Overall I immensely enjoy Locatelli’s Pizza, and am very glad my boss recommended them when I moved into the area.
Locatelli's Pizza's Website
The restaurant is located in that same gem of a shopping center as Mezzanote Ristorante at Louetta and Grant road.
Now let’s get back to those ingredients. My husband never fails to get heart burn on pizza night. We typically order our pizza light sauce to lessen the burn for him later. With Locatelli’s we have found that on those nights when we forget to say our special request; my husband has admitted theirs does not create the furnace inside him as bad as the others tend to.
They also support the local community by hiring high school kids.
I have ordered their salads and was not disappointed in their continued quality and freshness of their ingredients.
The one area that I personally cannot give the highest marks would be in the dessert department. I applaud their efforts to bring some unique desserts, but with poor execution no idea is going to be a great one. The ones that I have tried include their Stick in the Mud, S.O.S., and their Powdered Pizza Skin. I have always taken these back to my home to enjoy, so I do not know if they may be better had in the restaurant.
Overall I immensely enjoy Locatelli’s Pizza, and am very glad my boss recommended them when I moved into the area.
Locatelli's Pizza's Website
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
New Place Report - Mezzanotte Ristorante
First of all I would like to inform y'all that I am a pretty easy woman to please. Take me to a restaurant to enjoy a meal and you have just made me the happiest woman on the planet. Especially if it is a place I have not been to before.
So for our six year get together anniversary my husband took me to a place I've been asking to go for a while now. Mezzanotte Ristorante might as well be right in my back yard. It is located at Louetta Road & Grant Road nestled in the middle of a "V" shaped shopping center. I saw it while picking up a pizza at Locatelli's (Which I will blog about at a later date..). For some reason I really like the location of this restaurant. I am being honest when I say I am not really sure why. It feels like one of those tucked away gems that no one knows about.
Upon entering the restaurant my first observation is that the establishment is on the smaller side, but gives off a more of a comfortable than a cramped feel. We were sat at one of those dreadful two person tables. (See Melting Pot Blog for my opinion on this matter.) But again to be honest the table was big enough so it was not as bad as the last place we were sat at a two person table.
Upon looking over the menu not very many things jumped out and bit me. The appetizer menu seemed to draw my eye back to it several times though. I ended up not getting an appetizer for my meal; instead I decided to be a bit daring. Well as daring as trying something you have had before in a different way can be.
Before we get to that though; we did order an appetizer. We ordered the Mozzarella En Carrozza from the weekly special menu. The menu informed us that it is a southern Italy specialty consisting of mozzarella di bufala delicately flash fried served with a Tarantina sauce which is made with garlic, capers, anchovies, and sun-dried tomatoes. I have to say that this sauce was the most delectible sauce I've ever had. It was light and flavorful. They had given us bread to dip in some herbs encompassed in oil, and I dipped the bread in the sauce after we had eaten the fried cheese before they could whisk the plate away.
My husband had ordered this pretty quickly and regretted not consulting me more before placing the order, but I reassured him that I was very pleased with his selection. First I love to order off of weekly special menu's because what you order may not be there the next time you come so you can try new and different things, and again that sauce was just phenomenal.
For my entree I ordered the Ossobuco which on the menu is described as a sumptuous veal shank braised in red wine, tomatoes, carrots, celery, and onions. Served with saffron risotto. I say that I was being bold because I've never had veal before. On the other hand Veal is just baby cow; which I have had plenty of beef in my lifetime, so it was like trying something new with a safety net below. The veal was very rich and left with you a feeling of home. I said to my husband, "This tastes like home, not my home, but someone else's home."
I do not believe that I have ever had the seasoning saffron before either. Trying the risotto by itself it did not really send me over the moon with flavor, but when you took a bit of the risotto and pared it with the meat you find yourself in a whole new world. This is the ultimate man meal to me. It is not meat and potatoes, but it is a meat and a starch which basically does the trick to be able to qualify as a man meal in my mind.
My husband ordered the grilled filet mignon with alfredo noodles, and he said that it was very good.
We were going to order a dessert to share, but could not make up our minds which one to choose , so we ordered the tiramisu and the crème brûlée. Both were delightful. The tiramisu hit levels of yumminess (This word is not in the dictionary, and should be!) I hadn't had with a tiramisu before. Upon taking a bite of the tiramisu the coffee would flow out of it like a wave of flavor saying "..hello you...now love me...". The sugar on the top of the crème brûlée was slightly darker than I'm used to, but while enjoying it, it reminded me of a roasted marshmallow over a camp fire. If it was not right it might be the way to go in the future.
I have started a new tradition at the end of larger meals I like to enjoy a cup of coffee. It helps the digestion process, and I just plain love me some coffee! My husband joined me in my new after-meal ritual, and he as well said he would probably do this from now on. We felt a little like an older couple. We now drink coffee after dinner.
A wonderful lady stopped by our table near the end of our meal and checked on our experience. We told her we enjoyed it immensely. She let us know that they have wine tastings and something called "Tapas Night". She explained that on those nights they have appetizer size food for only $5 each. I thought this is a wonderful idea. You get to eat multiple portions of all those appetizers as your meal that had caught my eye when ordering earlier. I am looking forward to catching a Tapas night in the near future.
So for our six year get together anniversary my husband took me to a place I've been asking to go for a while now. Mezzanotte Ristorante might as well be right in my back yard. It is located at Louetta Road & Grant Road nestled in the middle of a "V" shaped shopping center. I saw it while picking up a pizza at Locatelli's (Which I will blog about at a later date..). For some reason I really like the location of this restaurant. I am being honest when I say I am not really sure why. It feels like one of those tucked away gems that no one knows about.
Upon entering the restaurant my first observation is that the establishment is on the smaller side, but gives off a more of a comfortable than a cramped feel. We were sat at one of those dreadful two person tables. (See Melting Pot Blog for my opinion on this matter.) But again to be honest the table was big enough so it was not as bad as the last place we were sat at a two person table.
Upon looking over the menu not very many things jumped out and bit me. The appetizer menu seemed to draw my eye back to it several times though. I ended up not getting an appetizer for my meal; instead I decided to be a bit daring. Well as daring as trying something you have had before in a different way can be.
Before we get to that though; we did order an appetizer. We ordered the Mozzarella En Carrozza from the weekly special menu. The menu informed us that it is a southern Italy specialty consisting of mozzarella di bufala delicately flash fried served with a Tarantina sauce which is made with garlic, capers, anchovies, and sun-dried tomatoes. I have to say that this sauce was the most delectible sauce I've ever had. It was light and flavorful. They had given us bread to dip in some herbs encompassed in oil, and I dipped the bread in the sauce after we had eaten the fried cheese before they could whisk the plate away.
My husband had ordered this pretty quickly and regretted not consulting me more before placing the order, but I reassured him that I was very pleased with his selection. First I love to order off of weekly special menu's because what you order may not be there the next time you come so you can try new and different things, and again that sauce was just phenomenal.
For my entree I ordered the Ossobuco which on the menu is described as a sumptuous veal shank braised in red wine, tomatoes, carrots, celery, and onions. Served with saffron risotto. I say that I was being bold because I've never had veal before. On the other hand Veal is just baby cow; which I have had plenty of beef in my lifetime, so it was like trying something new with a safety net below. The veal was very rich and left with you a feeling of home. I said to my husband, "This tastes like home, not my home, but someone else's home."
I do not believe that I have ever had the seasoning saffron before either. Trying the risotto by itself it did not really send me over the moon with flavor, but when you took a bit of the risotto and pared it with the meat you find yourself in a whole new world. This is the ultimate man meal to me. It is not meat and potatoes, but it is a meat and a starch which basically does the trick to be able to qualify as a man meal in my mind.
My husband ordered the grilled filet mignon with alfredo noodles, and he said that it was very good.
We were going to order a dessert to share, but could not make up our minds which one to choose , so we ordered the tiramisu and the crème brûlée. Both were delightful. The tiramisu hit levels of yumminess (This word is not in the dictionary, and should be!) I hadn't had with a tiramisu before. Upon taking a bite of the tiramisu the coffee would flow out of it like a wave of flavor saying "..hello you...now love me...". The sugar on the top of the crème brûlée was slightly darker than I'm used to, but while enjoying it, it reminded me of a roasted marshmallow over a camp fire. If it was not right it might be the way to go in the future.
I have started a new tradition at the end of larger meals I like to enjoy a cup of coffee. It helps the digestion process, and I just plain love me some coffee! My husband joined me in my new after-meal ritual, and he as well said he would probably do this from now on. We felt a little like an older couple. We now drink coffee after dinner.
A wonderful lady stopped by our table near the end of our meal and checked on our experience. We told her we enjoyed it immensely. She let us know that they have wine tastings and something called "Tapas Night". She explained that on those nights they have appetizer size food for only $5 each. I thought this is a wonderful idea. You get to eat multiple portions of all those appetizers as your meal that had caught my eye when ordering earlier. I am looking forward to catching a Tapas night in the near future.
(Please Note: I tried really hard to take a picture of my food when I received it, but regretfully I never remember. So here is one about three or four bites in. - Ossobuco)
Friday, July 22, 2011
New Place Report - The Bake Shoppe
My boss has been going to this place for years and had talked about it a lot. Also my co-worker went there one time with our boss and she said it was good as well. Well I have some bad news for you folks you missed it, and so did I. The people who had owned it for fourteen years sold in 2009 to a new owner.
Not knowing this I finally went there the other night, because I was just bored of the same old fast food, and trying to find something on the healthier side to eat. I walked in and the decor is not exactly what I was expecting... I felt like I had walked into a little girl fashion boutique. Trust me I feel horrible about the things that I'm going to tell you here, because I genuinely want every restaurant I eat at to have phenomenal food, but that is not always the case.
I ordered food to go for my husband and I. For him I ordered the pulled pork sandwich, and for myself the Chef Salad. When I got home and opened my salad not only did some of the lettuce have black edges on it some pieces also had that slimy texture to it that informs you that you should not eat it or you will be having a bad salad experience. (I've had a bad salad once, and hope I never have to go through that again.) The meat they included was very good, and I thought I was supposed to get some boiled egg, but strangely it was missing. I went through the salad and out of a whole to go box stuffed with salad I only had the amount that would be two of my fists together. I paid just under ten dollars for this salad. You can imagine my disappointment.
As far as my husband's food he said that the pulled pork did not blow him away, but the bread was good. His little salad was as pitiful as mine was, and he was downtrodden that they had set his cookie on top of the salad with no protection that it became soggy and inedible.
I would have to say from this visit I will not be stopping into The Bake Shoppe again anytime soon. The only thing I can say in their defense would be that they seem to specialize more in casserole dishes, alas that is not what we ordered.
The Bake Shoppe's Website
Not knowing this I finally went there the other night, because I was just bored of the same old fast food, and trying to find something on the healthier side to eat. I walked in and the decor is not exactly what I was expecting... I felt like I had walked into a little girl fashion boutique. Trust me I feel horrible about the things that I'm going to tell you here, because I genuinely want every restaurant I eat at to have phenomenal food, but that is not always the case.
I ordered food to go for my husband and I. For him I ordered the pulled pork sandwich, and for myself the Chef Salad. When I got home and opened my salad not only did some of the lettuce have black edges on it some pieces also had that slimy texture to it that informs you that you should not eat it or you will be having a bad salad experience. (I've had a bad salad once, and hope I never have to go through that again.) The meat they included was very good, and I thought I was supposed to get some boiled egg, but strangely it was missing. I went through the salad and out of a whole to go box stuffed with salad I only had the amount that would be two of my fists together. I paid just under ten dollars for this salad. You can imagine my disappointment.
As far as my husband's food he said that the pulled pork did not blow him away, but the bread was good. His little salad was as pitiful as mine was, and he was downtrodden that they had set his cookie on top of the salad with no protection that it became soggy and inedible.
I would have to say from this visit I will not be stopping into The Bake Shoppe again anytime soon. The only thing I can say in their defense would be that they seem to specialize more in casserole dishes, alas that is not what we ordered.
The Bake Shoppe's Website
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Usual Spots Report - Connie's Frozen Custard
Now I have eaten at this place many, many times... because it is just THAT good!! Imagine Blue Bell, which we all know and love, take it and make it ten times creamier, and you will have an inkling about how good their ice cream is. I don't know whether or not to call it frozen custard or ice cream... The video on their website says premium ice cream while of course the name is Connie's Frozen Custard. Whatever it is my friends if you have not tried it I highly recommend it.
My father used to always make a detour on the way back from whatever we were doing to go to the old fashioned ice cream stands. The one's that actually look like upside down ice cream cones. So this place already has a special place in my heart, because I know my dad would have loved it.
They make their custard fresh every hour, and it is gluten free. My two favorite things to get there, and it just depends on my mood which one I decide upon. Is the Homemade Brownie Sundae, which has the most delectable, warm brownie you've ever tasted. And my other choice is the Choc-O-- Rocko Specialty Concrete which is their version of rocky road.
This wonderful sweet treat facility is located at Cypress North Houston and Jones Road, a little past Cypress North Houston if you are on Jones Road heading towards Grant on the left side just past the WellsFargo building.
It is so worth your time I promise!~
Connie's Frozen Custard Website
My father used to always make a detour on the way back from whatever we were doing to go to the old fashioned ice cream stands. The one's that actually look like upside down ice cream cones. So this place already has a special place in my heart, because I know my dad would have loved it.
They make their custard fresh every hour, and it is gluten free. My two favorite things to get there, and it just depends on my mood which one I decide upon. Is the Homemade Brownie Sundae, which has the most delectable, warm brownie you've ever tasted. And my other choice is the Choc-O-- Rocko Specialty Concrete which is their version of rocky road.
This wonderful sweet treat facility is located at Cypress North Houston and Jones Road, a little past Cypress North Houston if you are on Jones Road heading towards Grant on the left side just past the WellsFargo building.
It is so worth your time I promise!~
Connie's Frozen Custard Website
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