Ahhh! Grand Paris!
A couple of friends of mine recently returned from a trip to France and Belgium and it got me thinking about my trip I took with my wife and parents to Paris soon after my college graduation. We did one of those 20 day "taste of Europe" trips and being a history buff that I was, it was awesome to see all of the famous sites in London, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Florence and Paris. What was even better was sampling the local cuisine from each Country we went through.
Since I have not gone International yet, there is no better place to start than with Paris.
The two days we spent there were fantastic and we were able to do a lot of things in such a short amount of time. We visited Notre Dame Cathedral, The Eiffel Tower, a perfume factory and spent a morning running through the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo (we literally ran the whole time).
In addition to all of the popular sites there are a few foods you have to eat when you visit this magical city.
1. French Onion Soup: I have mentioned some great State side locations to get some of this soup but nothing beats the original. My friends that just got back agreed. I think it has to do with the cheese they use as it has a flavor all it's own and really makes the flavors come to life.
2. Beef Burgundy: What makes this dish standout in Paris must be the local French red wine and herbs they use as the beef just melts in your mouth. A side of fresh cut green beans is a good way to go.
3. Escargot: Yes snails! I had tried these before on a cruise I took soon after high school graduation. The ones we had at the restaurant the night of our farewell dinner must have been infused with steroids as they were huge. No one dared dig in until I did. I love being a trail blazer. Don't be surprised if you really like them as they taste just like a marinated mushroom.
4. Baguettes & Crepes: Stop in to a local bakery and get yourself a fresh baguette to enjoy as you wonder around town. It was funny to see all of the people riding bikes with these huge pieces of bread under their arms but after eating one you will want one every meal as well. Just make sure you do not stop to eat it or you will have about 100 pigeons watching your every move. Also, try a few different types of crepes as no one makes a better "flat pancake". I recommend eating at least 12 as you will need the energy...running through the Louvre.
Just get used to the warm sodas or sparkling water as they must have an ice shortage in Europe. We got used to saying "No Gas" when ordering water. Try to get it from a bottle cold as warm carbonated water is not very refreshing.
Don't worry about the perceived rudeness some people talk about as we found every one very nice. We would try to order off the menu's in French and they would in turn try to explain the dishes in English. The people at the local bakery's and deli's were also very helpful. If your friendly to them, they will be friendly to you.
So make sure you visit this awesome city as soon as you can and as they say in Paris:
Bon Appetite!
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Houston, TX. (Part 2)
I love Houston weather this time of year. Humidity is low, everything is green and the bugs aren't out yet.
For this trip I flew into the smaller Hobby Airport which I recommend as it is easy to navigate in and out of. I was only there for a quick over night trip so I had to make my choices of where to eat carefully. I had been wanting to try one of the 'Pappas' restaurants for awhile so I know I had to hit one of them. I then wanted to venture more downtown and eat at a local stop there.
Mission accomplished.
It's nice to have people you work with that actually live in the cities you visit so they can chauffeur you around to the local eating establishments instead of relying on the rental GPS devices that can be very temperamental.
So here are two more recommendations the next time your down this way.
Pappasito's Cantina: http://pappasitos.com/home/
This is a local chain that I had mentioned in my previous Houston blog that everyone raves about but I had yet to try. They have BBQ, Seafood, Steak, Greek and burger joints all over Texas but my work bud in Houston picked me up at my hotel late due to some flight delays and recommended the Cantina of all of them as we were both starving. He recommended the fajitas so we went with the Steak and Chicken fajita combo. AWESOME! Sometimes when you get fajitas the chicken or the steak is so much better than the other but both of them here were very tender and juicy. They came with a side of melted butter to pour over the meat which was a nice touch. Sometimes the meat will be over a mix of red and green peppers, mushrooms and onions. These meats were over a bed of onions only which was unusual but coupled with the excellent guacamole and pico it was all that was needed. Plus you want to taste the meat when it is done this well. Their cheese queso is awesome so make sure you get some with the chips.
Barnaby's Cafe: http://www.barnabyscafe.com/
This is another local chain that I visited for lunch downtown. The one I went to was located on West Gray which is a cool little street coming right out of downtown that had a bunch of little cafe's and bistro's. I'm glad the guys I work with picked this one. I had an excellent Pulled Pork Torta that is basically an open faced sandwich that you must eat with a knife and fork or it will get messy. It was what the waiter recommended as one of their signature dishes and I was glad he did. My co-workers had the meat loaf, cob-salad and the Texas chili hamburger and they all swore by their selections. I wished they all rotated plates like my family but what can you do!!!
Here's to hoping these chains get big enough to expand to Utah someday. I never imagined getting In-N-out burger or Cheesecake Factory and they're here not so here's hoping.
Until next time, stay hungry my friends!
For this trip I flew into the smaller Hobby Airport which I recommend as it is easy to navigate in and out of. I was only there for a quick over night trip so I had to make my choices of where to eat carefully. I had been wanting to try one of the 'Pappas' restaurants for awhile so I know I had to hit one of them. I then wanted to venture more downtown and eat at a local stop there.
Mission accomplished.
It's nice to have people you work with that actually live in the cities you visit so they can chauffeur you around to the local eating establishments instead of relying on the rental GPS devices that can be very temperamental.
So here are two more recommendations the next time your down this way.
Pappasito's Cantina: http://pappasitos.com/home/
This is a local chain that I had mentioned in my previous Houston blog that everyone raves about but I had yet to try. They have BBQ, Seafood, Steak, Greek and burger joints all over Texas but my work bud in Houston picked me up at my hotel late due to some flight delays and recommended the Cantina of all of them as we were both starving. He recommended the fajitas so we went with the Steak and Chicken fajita combo. AWESOME! Sometimes when you get fajitas the chicken or the steak is so much better than the other but both of them here were very tender and juicy. They came with a side of melted butter to pour over the meat which was a nice touch. Sometimes the meat will be over a mix of red and green peppers, mushrooms and onions. These meats were over a bed of onions only which was unusual but coupled with the excellent guacamole and pico it was all that was needed. Plus you want to taste the meat when it is done this well. Their cheese queso is awesome so make sure you get some with the chips.
Barnaby's Cafe: http://www.barnabyscafe.com/
This is another local chain that I visited for lunch downtown. The one I went to was located on West Gray which is a cool little street coming right out of downtown that had a bunch of little cafe's and bistro's. I'm glad the guys I work with picked this one. I had an excellent Pulled Pork Torta that is basically an open faced sandwich that you must eat with a knife and fork or it will get messy. It was what the waiter recommended as one of their signature dishes and I was glad he did. My co-workers had the meat loaf, cob-salad and the Texas chili hamburger and they all swore by their selections. I wished they all rotated plates like my family but what can you do!!!
Here's to hoping these chains get big enough to expand to Utah someday. I never imagined getting In-N-out burger or Cheesecake Factory and they're here not so here's hoping.
Until next time, stay hungry my friends!
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Chicken Divan
Time flies when your eating well my friends!
It has been awhile since I shared one of my favorite recipes so I thought now that spring is springing it was time to share one that has been in our family for generations and adored by all. When I say 'all' I include my children who are some of the pickiest eaters in the world. This is even considered a casserole and they like it....even though we don't tell them it's a casserole.
It is called Chicken Divan (although it could be called chicken divine!)
Growing up in the 70's it seemed like casseroles were the in thing. It felt like a few times a week my mother would make a tuna casserole or some beef stroganoff dish. Probably because there were plenty of left overs to heat up the next night (the reason there were so many left overs is no body ate it the first night). Needless to say I did not look forward to casserole nights.
But I remember always liking Chicken Divan. The flavor of this dish over a bed of rice gets me emotional just thinking about it. Enough weeping! Here's the recipe:
CHICKEN DIVAN
2 10oz packages of broccoli
2 cups cooked, diced chicken
2 10 1/2 oz cream of chicken soup
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp. lemon juice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp is best)
1 cup bread crumbs (just your basic large dried bread crumbs)
Cook broccoli until tender and arrange in greased 9x13 pan. Layer cooked chicken on top. Combine next 3 ingredients and pour over chicken. Sprinkle with cheese, then bread crumbs. Bake at 350 for 35 min.
As I mentioned before we like to make some white rice and then pour this over it. I add a little soy sauce to the rice first for a little extra flavor but you don't have to.
Think about it. If your kids can like something with broccoli in it you've won a major battle as a parent. It has your 4 basic food groups represented which is a home run in the cooking world. This is even good as a left over dinner as it heats up well in the microwave without the chicken getting tough.
So give this a go and let me know what you think as if you don't like it you can blame the 70's as that decade ruined my taste buds.
Enjoy!
It has been awhile since I shared one of my favorite recipes so I thought now that spring is springing it was time to share one that has been in our family for generations and adored by all. When I say 'all' I include my children who are some of the pickiest eaters in the world. This is even considered a casserole and they like it....even though we don't tell them it's a casserole.
It is called Chicken Divan (although it could be called chicken divine!)
Growing up in the 70's it seemed like casseroles were the in thing. It felt like a few times a week my mother would make a tuna casserole or some beef stroganoff dish. Probably because there were plenty of left overs to heat up the next night (the reason there were so many left overs is no body ate it the first night). Needless to say I did not look forward to casserole nights.
But I remember always liking Chicken Divan. The flavor of this dish over a bed of rice gets me emotional just thinking about it. Enough weeping! Here's the recipe:
CHICKEN DIVAN
2 10oz packages of broccoli
2 cups cooked, diced chicken
2 10 1/2 oz cream of chicken soup
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp. lemon juice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp is best)
1 cup bread crumbs (just your basic large dried bread crumbs)
Cook broccoli until tender and arrange in greased 9x13 pan. Layer cooked chicken on top. Combine next 3 ingredients and pour over chicken. Sprinkle with cheese, then bread crumbs. Bake at 350 for 35 min.
As I mentioned before we like to make some white rice and then pour this over it. I add a little soy sauce to the rice first for a little extra flavor but you don't have to.
Think about it. If your kids can like something with broccoli in it you've won a major battle as a parent. It has your 4 basic food groups represented which is a home run in the cooking world. This is even good as a left over dinner as it heats up well in the microwave without the chicken getting tough.
So give this a go and let me know what you think as if you don't like it you can blame the 70's as that decade ruined my taste buds.
Enjoy!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Phoenix AZ. (Part 2)
I can't believe its been a year since I wrote about a few of my favorite eats in Phoenix!
In case you didn't know but Phoenix is a big city. Shocker right!
There are so many great places to eat. From the greater Phoenix area to Scottsdale and trough Mesa you will not lack in variety. I've been to Phoenix over a dozen times and traversed all over the metro area looking for some establishments that meet with my road eating commandments.
One of my favorite trips took us out to the Superstitious mountains and a cool little ghost town called Goldfield Goldmining town where you will learn about the Lost Dutchman's gold. We then ventured on to Canyon Lake which is nestled between some amazing rock formations and tons of sequoia cactus.
I've also ventured down to see my Cowboys take on the Cardinals. I was able to stay at the Ritz Carlton where the team stayed and got to see some of the players. I had Jerry Jones and a bunch of players sign a hat. Awesome!
But enough about my vacations and onto the food. Try a few of these the next time your down there.
Tortilla Flat Restaurant and Saloon: http://tortillaflataz.com/oldwesttown/restaurant.html
As you head east of Mesa on your way out to Canyon Lake head a little further to this cool town. Eating at this place really is like walking into an old time saloon you see in all of those westerns. The food is worth the drive as well. There are a lot of things to get but I recommend the Hot Cheese Fries and a cup of their Killer Chili to start. Dip your fries in the chili as if you get the chili cheese fries you cannot control the heat. I went with the Bullrider burger with the strips of green chili. Talk about a gut bomb but it will give you energy for a few days. Wash it down with some Sarsaparilla. Just don't head right to the lake afterwards as you will sink to the bottom.
Flo's Asian Kitchen: http://www.madebyflo.com/
On one business trip I was staying on Camel Back road and asked of few of the hotel staff where I could get the best Chinese food and a few of them recommended Flo's. Strange name I know but were they right! Their Hot and Sour soup is the best I've ever had and I'm usually an Egg Drop guy. The Spicy Thai Coconut Soup was awesome as well so make sure you go with someone so you can try a few of them. I was with a few people on our trip so may I recommend the Pine nut Shrimp, Katsu Chicken, Malaysian Cashew Beef and the Singapore BBQ Pork Noodles. You can thank me later! For dessert if you have room in your foot try the Banana Spring Rolls.
The Armadillo Grill: http://www.myarmadillogrill.com/
This place is like a cross between a Wolfgang Puck restaurant and sports bar. The food is awesome so don't let the surroundings fool you. I'm usually not a tomato soup kind of guy as it is usually a little to tart for me as far as soups go but you have to get a cup of their Rustic Tomato Soup. It is hearty with a flavor that will blow your mind. Then go with the Thai Chicken Skewers. The peanut sauce is awesome and really makes this appetizer or main dish memorable. Make sure to go with the Asian Slaw as a side with the Skewers. I love their Philly Cheese Steak for lunch and their Pork Chops for dinner.
Oregeno's Pizza Bistro: http://www.oreganos.com/index_main.html
My wife's best friend recommended this place and I have been in her debt ever since. This is a local chain around Arizona and I hope it comes to Utah soon. Start with their Bruschetta Authentico. Talk about a flavor explosion. You will be happy with any pizza. They really have perfected all three styles of crust (thin, stuffed or pan) but because its a Chicago pizza joint you have to go pan. But what ever you do you must save room for the Original Pizza Cookie. I'm going to warn you again. YOU MUST SAVE ROOM FOR THE PIZZA COOKIE. We were full but as soon as we started pounding this food of the gods we found room. We went with the chocolate chip and we can't wait to get back and try the white chocolate.
So there you have a few more places to add in Phoenix if you haven't tried my previous recommendations. Just make sure to sprinkle in some golf at their amazing courses and it will be a trip of a life time.
But just like I did last year try to avoid July through September unless you are into weight and water loss. It should be illegal to settle a town where it can get to 120 degrees.
Enjoy!
In case you didn't know but Phoenix is a big city. Shocker right!
There are so many great places to eat. From the greater Phoenix area to Scottsdale and trough Mesa you will not lack in variety. I've been to Phoenix over a dozen times and traversed all over the metro area looking for some establishments that meet with my road eating commandments.
One of my favorite trips took us out to the Superstitious mountains and a cool little ghost town called Goldfield Goldmining town where you will learn about the Lost Dutchman's gold. We then ventured on to Canyon Lake which is nestled between some amazing rock formations and tons of sequoia cactus.
I've also ventured down to see my Cowboys take on the Cardinals. I was able to stay at the Ritz Carlton where the team stayed and got to see some of the players. I had Jerry Jones and a bunch of players sign a hat. Awesome!
But enough about my vacations and onto the food. Try a few of these the next time your down there.
Tortilla Flat Restaurant and Saloon: http://tortillaflataz.com/oldwesttown/restaurant.html
As you head east of Mesa on your way out to Canyon Lake head a little further to this cool town. Eating at this place really is like walking into an old time saloon you see in all of those westerns. The food is worth the drive as well. There are a lot of things to get but I recommend the Hot Cheese Fries and a cup of their Killer Chili to start. Dip your fries in the chili as if you get the chili cheese fries you cannot control the heat. I went with the Bullrider burger with the strips of green chili. Talk about a gut bomb but it will give you energy for a few days. Wash it down with some Sarsaparilla. Just don't head right to the lake afterwards as you will sink to the bottom.
Flo's Asian Kitchen: http://www.madebyflo.com/
On one business trip I was staying on Camel Back road and asked of few of the hotel staff where I could get the best Chinese food and a few of them recommended Flo's. Strange name I know but were they right! Their Hot and Sour soup is the best I've ever had and I'm usually an Egg Drop guy. The Spicy Thai Coconut Soup was awesome as well so make sure you go with someone so you can try a few of them. I was with a few people on our trip so may I recommend the Pine nut Shrimp, Katsu Chicken, Malaysian Cashew Beef and the Singapore BBQ Pork Noodles. You can thank me later! For dessert if you have room in your foot try the Banana Spring Rolls.
The Armadillo Grill: http://www.myarmadillogrill.com/
This place is like a cross between a Wolfgang Puck restaurant and sports bar. The food is awesome so don't let the surroundings fool you. I'm usually not a tomato soup kind of guy as it is usually a little to tart for me as far as soups go but you have to get a cup of their Rustic Tomato Soup. It is hearty with a flavor that will blow your mind. Then go with the Thai Chicken Skewers. The peanut sauce is awesome and really makes this appetizer or main dish memorable. Make sure to go with the Asian Slaw as a side with the Skewers. I love their Philly Cheese Steak for lunch and their Pork Chops for dinner.
Oregeno's Pizza Bistro: http://www.oreganos.com/index_main.html
My wife's best friend recommended this place and I have been in her debt ever since. This is a local chain around Arizona and I hope it comes to Utah soon. Start with their Bruschetta Authentico. Talk about a flavor explosion. You will be happy with any pizza. They really have perfected all three styles of crust (thin, stuffed or pan) but because its a Chicago pizza joint you have to go pan. But what ever you do you must save room for the Original Pizza Cookie. I'm going to warn you again. YOU MUST SAVE ROOM FOR THE PIZZA COOKIE. We were full but as soon as we started pounding this food of the gods we found room. We went with the chocolate chip and we can't wait to get back and try the white chocolate.
So there you have a few more places to add in Phoenix if you haven't tried my previous recommendations. Just make sure to sprinkle in some golf at their amazing courses and it will be a trip of a life time.
But just like I did last year try to avoid July through September unless you are into weight and water loss. It should be illegal to settle a town where it can get to 120 degrees.
Enjoy!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
BBQ YUM!
With 4 kids I have grown accustomed to recommending food choices that are relatively clean i.e. knife and fork type foods. It just causes less stress when eating as a family. That is why I try to avoid BBQ with the whole family as the sauce ends up in their hair, on their clothing, in the van, on their pillows etc.
But when I'm along or with the Mrs. I definitely love BBQ.
These establishments are opening up here in Utah like Walgreen's. It seems they are going into every new strip mall in every city and they are all coming from chains in Texas and the south as well as transplant restaurant owners from those areas.
There are so many places to get good BBQ in Utah but I have some rules in making my top 5.
The first rule is the sauce. The sauce has to be original and pack a kick. Not a punch but a kick. If I want Hunt's BBQ sauce I will go buy it. Most places at least give you three choices of original, sweet and spicy. I personally like to mix the original and the spicy as sometimes the spicy by itself dominates the flavor of the meat so be careful.
The second rule is the side dishes. You have to have variety and they must be good. If you can enjoy at least 80% of the side dishes you know you've found a good spot. I judge most places on their coleslaw. Coleslaw is something I despised as a kid but acquired the taste later on in my 20's. I like a good creamy or vinegary coleslaw. Some places I have had it is just chopped up cabbage with not much else. That works if your a rabbit so the places I mention below will have good coleslaw.
So without further adue I give you 5 of my most favorite.
Dickey's: http://www.dickeys.com/default.aspx
One of their locations recently opened up in West Valley near my place of work and I have been there a lot lately. I love their signature chopped beef sandwich or pulled pork. Great sauces. Again mix the original with the spicy. One of their sides is the baked potato casserole which is a tasty take on the twice baked potato so I recommend it. Their jalapeno beans are hearty with a nice kick. The coleslaw is creamy and excellent. They also do the waffle fries like Chick Fil E and are yummy. About the only side dish I don't recommend are the onion straws as they are just OK.
Pats BBQ: http://www.patsbbq.com/
I mentioned this place in one of my previous blogs talking about Salt Lake eats but since this blog is about BBQ I thought I would mention them again. This place was on the food network and you have to get here earlier or later than the Noon lunch rush. But well worth your time. I love their beef brisket slices and pork ribs. They have daily specials and the burnt tips on Friday are my favorite as they are tender pieces of beef brisket tips. Their red beans and rice or creole beans and rice are a must as a side dish. The corn bread is moist and a great addition.
Huntsville BBQ Company: http://texaspridebarbecue.com/
This was a couple from Texas that opened this place in historic downtown Huntsville. Great setting for a BBQ joint and during the summer its nice to hang out at Pine View reservoir and then head on over for some excellent food. I love sitting in the back outside where they have live music. Every type of meat is great here but I really like their sausage as one of my meats. I didn't care much for the potato salad but they had a broccoli salad that was very good so I recommend that.
Q 4 U: http://www.q4u.com/newweb/main.htm
They recently moved locations to a more spacious restaurant but luckily the food didn't change. I love their pork spare rib sandwich with their southern seasoned french fries and coleslaw. What a lunch. Their southern fired chicken is also very tasty. The black eyed peas are also a great side to get here.
Texas Roadhouse: http://www.texasroadhouse.com/
Yes a chain restaurant made this list but when you have had dreams about eating something you know it's good. I LOVE their baby back ribs. It's nice to be able to cut them with a fork and they are so dang meaty. My wife likes them so she does not need to wash my cloths over and over to get the stains out. I really do not even look at anything else on the menu even though my wife loves some of their other dishes. Do not tank up on the yummy rolls and save room for the full rack. I like getting their mashed potato's with cheese and bacon and their green beans.
So there you have it. Enough places to get messy at up and down the Wasatch front. I have mentioned other good BBQ joints in other blogs and will do a national entry soon for when you are on the road.
Check out the places popping up in your area and let me know what you like as I'm always on the hunt!
Until we eat again....stay hungry my friends!
But when I'm along or with the Mrs. I definitely love BBQ.
These establishments are opening up here in Utah like Walgreen's. It seems they are going into every new strip mall in every city and they are all coming from chains in Texas and the south as well as transplant restaurant owners from those areas.
There are so many places to get good BBQ in Utah but I have some rules in making my top 5.
The first rule is the sauce. The sauce has to be original and pack a kick. Not a punch but a kick. If I want Hunt's BBQ sauce I will go buy it. Most places at least give you three choices of original, sweet and spicy. I personally like to mix the original and the spicy as sometimes the spicy by itself dominates the flavor of the meat so be careful.
The second rule is the side dishes. You have to have variety and they must be good. If you can enjoy at least 80% of the side dishes you know you've found a good spot. I judge most places on their coleslaw. Coleslaw is something I despised as a kid but acquired the taste later on in my 20's. I like a good creamy or vinegary coleslaw. Some places I have had it is just chopped up cabbage with not much else. That works if your a rabbit so the places I mention below will have good coleslaw.
So without further adue I give you 5 of my most favorite.
Dickey's: http://www.dickeys.com/default.aspx
One of their locations recently opened up in West Valley near my place of work and I have been there a lot lately. I love their signature chopped beef sandwich or pulled pork. Great sauces. Again mix the original with the spicy. One of their sides is the baked potato casserole which is a tasty take on the twice baked potato so I recommend it. Their jalapeno beans are hearty with a nice kick. The coleslaw is creamy and excellent. They also do the waffle fries like Chick Fil E and are yummy. About the only side dish I don't recommend are the onion straws as they are just OK.
Pats BBQ: http://www.patsbbq.com/
I mentioned this place in one of my previous blogs talking about Salt Lake eats but since this blog is about BBQ I thought I would mention them again. This place was on the food network and you have to get here earlier or later than the Noon lunch rush. But well worth your time. I love their beef brisket slices and pork ribs. They have daily specials and the burnt tips on Friday are my favorite as they are tender pieces of beef brisket tips. Their red beans and rice or creole beans and rice are a must as a side dish. The corn bread is moist and a great addition.
Huntsville BBQ Company: http://texaspridebarbecue.com/
This was a couple from Texas that opened this place in historic downtown Huntsville. Great setting for a BBQ joint and during the summer its nice to hang out at Pine View reservoir and then head on over for some excellent food. I love sitting in the back outside where they have live music. Every type of meat is great here but I really like their sausage as one of my meats. I didn't care much for the potato salad but they had a broccoli salad that was very good so I recommend that.
Q 4 U: http://www.q4u.com/newweb/main.htm
They recently moved locations to a more spacious restaurant but luckily the food didn't change. I love their pork spare rib sandwich with their southern seasoned french fries and coleslaw. What a lunch. Their southern fired chicken is also very tasty. The black eyed peas are also a great side to get here.
Texas Roadhouse: http://www.texasroadhouse.com/
Yes a chain restaurant made this list but when you have had dreams about eating something you know it's good. I LOVE their baby back ribs. It's nice to be able to cut them with a fork and they are so dang meaty. My wife likes them so she does not need to wash my cloths over and over to get the stains out. I really do not even look at anything else on the menu even though my wife loves some of their other dishes. Do not tank up on the yummy rolls and save room for the full rack. I like getting their mashed potato's with cheese and bacon and their green beans.
So there you have it. Enough places to get messy at up and down the Wasatch front. I have mentioned other good BBQ joints in other blogs and will do a national entry soon for when you are on the road.
Check out the places popping up in your area and let me know what you like as I'm always on the hunt!
Until we eat again....stay hungry my friends!
Friday, January 13, 2012
Cruising for FOOD!!!
It's winter time. It's cold. The pollution levels are up. Dogs and cats are living together. Mass hysteria.....sorry to go negative on you this early in the year!
Now is the time to go on a cruise to some tropical lo-cal, clear your lungs and get the year started off right. Even though I'm not going on a cruise anytime soon a few of my acquaintances are so I thought I would put a blog together about cruises and the dos and donts of eating on these floating cities.
My first cruise was right after high school graduation. We did a week long western Caribbean cruise on Norwegian cruise line. The the main thing I remember about the cruise is gaining 10 pounds by the time it was over. I couldn't believe I could order whatever I wanted and it was included. This was the first time I ever tried escargot and caviar. If I wanted a side of lobster or steak I could get it. As a hungry fastfood induced 18 year old with a high metabolism it was heaven. It seemed like their was a buffet every few hours somewhere on the ship. Nothing beats the Midnight buffet after 3 or 4 hours dancing in one of the clubs. But I also learned a few lessons the hard way.
By the time I took my wife on our first cruise together on Carnival cruise line I learned to pace myself. Because the food is so readily available you really have to have self control. It seemed like I was never hungry enough to eat when we did our shore excursions and I regretted not trying any of the local food because I was too stuffed. Not to mention the bloated feeling. It can really affect your snorkeling activity. Plus your in a swim suit so you need to be able to suck in your gut when your on a beach.
So hear are my rules for cruise eating:
Just watch out for the bar tabs. They will keep track of everything you drink outside of water and it can add up at the end. I think I dropped about $100 on Cokes. Another warning: make sure the bar tenders hear you say "Virgin" if you want to try the tropical slushy drinks. I would hate to hear of anyone going overboard because they had to many "Virgin" drinks.
Let me know of your cruise recommendations as it's never to early to start planning your next getaway.
Until next time "May the eats be with you, always!"
Now is the time to go on a cruise to some tropical lo-cal, clear your lungs and get the year started off right. Even though I'm not going on a cruise anytime soon a few of my acquaintances are so I thought I would put a blog together about cruises and the dos and donts of eating on these floating cities.
My first cruise was right after high school graduation. We did a week long western Caribbean cruise on Norwegian cruise line. The the main thing I remember about the cruise is gaining 10 pounds by the time it was over. I couldn't believe I could order whatever I wanted and it was included. This was the first time I ever tried escargot and caviar. If I wanted a side of lobster or steak I could get it. As a hungry fastfood induced 18 year old with a high metabolism it was heaven. It seemed like their was a buffet every few hours somewhere on the ship. Nothing beats the Midnight buffet after 3 or 4 hours dancing in one of the clubs. But I also learned a few lessons the hard way.
By the time I took my wife on our first cruise together on Carnival cruise line I learned to pace myself. Because the food is so readily available you really have to have self control. It seemed like I was never hungry enough to eat when we did our shore excursions and I regretted not trying any of the local food because I was too stuffed. Not to mention the bloated feeling. It can really affect your snorkeling activity. Plus your in a swim suit so you need to be able to suck in your gut when your on a beach.
So hear are my rules for cruise eating:
- Make sure you can choose when and where to eat. Cruise lines these days give you open seating at numerous restaurants all over the ship. Long gone are the days of sitting at a table with people you don't know every night at a certain time. Why deal with the pressure to be somewhere to eat and having to try to get to know someone from Borneo.
- Pace yourself and eat smaller meals. This cuts down on the uncomfortable feeling and frees you up to try all of the different foods and desserts. Plus when you get off at a port you are actually hungry enough to try some local food while your there.
- Try some unique foods you've never tried. Like I mentioned earlier I tried escargot and caviar on my first cruise. I've also had sword fish and some very funky sushi (not sushi roll sushi but funky sushi). Again if you monitor your food intake you can sample a lot of different things. I actually can say I like snails....yikes!
- Go with some people you know. That way if you have some assigned seating meals you can sit with people who will let you try their food as well. It's awkward to ask a couple from Australia who you just met to try their shrimp kabob.
Just watch out for the bar tabs. They will keep track of everything you drink outside of water and it can add up at the end. I think I dropped about $100 on Cokes. Another warning: make sure the bar tenders hear you say "Virgin" if you want to try the tropical slushy drinks. I would hate to hear of anyone going overboard because they had to many "Virgin" drinks.
Let me know of your cruise recommendations as it's never to early to start planning your next getaway.
Until next time "May the eats be with you, always!"
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Provo/Orem, UT.
Ahhh! Happy Valley!
I can't believe it's been almost 1 year since my first post and I haven't even mentioned some of my favorite restaurants in the Provo/Orem area. With many family members as big BYU fans I have been visiting this lo-cal for a better part of 30 years now and have enjoyed many a good eats in these neck of the woods.
As you drive down state street in Orem and into downtown Provo I'm always amazed at the diversity of dinning options on this stretch of freeway. In most cities they have a higher concentration of certain ethnic food restaurants in certain areas or they are located at opposite ends of the city but in these towns you will have a Mexican joint next to an Italian, next to a Japanese, next to Indian etc. So you don't have to drive to far to get what your craving. So I will attempt to give you a mosh-posh of my favorites.
Los Hermanos Mexican Restaurant: http://loshermanos.weebly.com/
This has been one of my favorite Mexican restaurants for as long as I've been visiting Provo. Provo actually has a lot of Mexican food and I've eaten at a few other joints and enjoyed them but if I have my choice I always end up here. Located in the historic section of downtown the ambiance is second to none and the food is even better. I love their Halibut tacos as they are really meaty and not the usual cod that is used at most restaurants. I'm a sucker for a good Chile Verde as well so the Smothered Burrito is also one of my favorites if I'm really hungry. I love their Fried Ice Cream and make sure you add all of the extras for a buck as it will be one of your favorite desserts anywhere.
Gloria's Little Italy: http://www.gloriaslittleitaly.com/aboutus.html
This cool Italian restaurant located close to Los Hermanos is fantastic. Talk about your signature dishes. You can really tell that each item on the menu is made to stand out from the others and it tastes like you just made it in your kitchen. Although I have never made anything Italian from scratch personally. Start with the Minestrone as the spices used in this vegetable soup are amazing. The Tortelloni Alla Boscaiola is one of my favorite dishes. It has mushroom and a smooth cheese filled pasta in a creamy mushroom sauce. Or you can build your own pasta in one of their many made fresh daily sauces. This is great to do in a big group so you can try a lot of them at once.
Bombay House: http://www.bombayhouse.com/
Tikka Masala. Tikka Masala. It is so fun to say but so much funner to eat. This is a chicken dish that is to die for. The tomato creamy sauce the tandoor chicken is cooked in could stand by itself. Make sure you have plenty of Garlic Naan bread to dip in the sauce. It is some of the best Masala I've had anywhere (although I've never been to India I did have an Indian professor in college and he liked this place). My wife always goes for the Coconut Chicken Kurma in it's sweet and spicy sauce which I always help myself to as well. Ah the joys of marriage. There is a location in Salt Lake as well so you don't have to drive all the way to Provo but since there is not an Indian restaurant in Utah County that can touch this place it's worth the visit if your down there.
Yamato Japanese Restaurant: http://yamatogo.com/index.html
This place was referred to me by some buddies that went to BYU and they assured me it was the only place to get great Japanese food in Utah County so this is the only place I have frequented so let me know of any others you like. The Tempura is some of the best I've had. Very light and flaky as some Tempura is a little too heavy if done incorrectly. I love their Beef Teriyaki with the Shrimp Tempura. Get some of their perfectly steamed Edamame and Yasai Tempura for an appetizer as well.
Carrabba's Italian Grill: http://www.carrabbas.com/
OK so I broke a rule and added a chain restaurant here. But since it is the only location in Utah that I know of it is well worth the visit. Since it is located in Orem and not Provo I can mention two Italian joints in the same blog can't I???? If you love Calamari everyone I've eaten with says it's some of the best but I would rather go with the Grilled Bruschetta. I'm a big fan of the Chicken Carraba as the sauteed mushrooms make this entree. The Tilapia Nocciola is a fantastic fish dish if you want something truly Italian exotic. The Tiramisu is a light way to finish off the dinner if you have not eaten too much of their fresh bread.
So now you're set for your next visit to Cougar country. Go ahead and wear your Utah gear as well as I have worn my Weber State attire and have not been turned away. The BYU/Weber State rivalry is just as big as the BYU/Utah rivalry right???
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
We will chat next year.....if their is a next year as it will be 2012 after all. Yikes!
I can't believe it's been almost 1 year since my first post and I haven't even mentioned some of my favorite restaurants in the Provo/Orem area. With many family members as big BYU fans I have been visiting this lo-cal for a better part of 30 years now and have enjoyed many a good eats in these neck of the woods.
As you drive down state street in Orem and into downtown Provo I'm always amazed at the diversity of dinning options on this stretch of freeway. In most cities they have a higher concentration of certain ethnic food restaurants in certain areas or they are located at opposite ends of the city but in these towns you will have a Mexican joint next to an Italian, next to a Japanese, next to Indian etc. So you don't have to drive to far to get what your craving. So I will attempt to give you a mosh-posh of my favorites.
Los Hermanos Mexican Restaurant: http://loshermanos.weebly.com/
This has been one of my favorite Mexican restaurants for as long as I've been visiting Provo. Provo actually has a lot of Mexican food and I've eaten at a few other joints and enjoyed them but if I have my choice I always end up here. Located in the historic section of downtown the ambiance is second to none and the food is even better. I love their Halibut tacos as they are really meaty and not the usual cod that is used at most restaurants. I'm a sucker for a good Chile Verde as well so the Smothered Burrito is also one of my favorites if I'm really hungry. I love their Fried Ice Cream and make sure you add all of the extras for a buck as it will be one of your favorite desserts anywhere.
Gloria's Little Italy: http://www.gloriaslittleitaly.com/aboutus.html
This cool Italian restaurant located close to Los Hermanos is fantastic. Talk about your signature dishes. You can really tell that each item on the menu is made to stand out from the others and it tastes like you just made it in your kitchen. Although I have never made anything Italian from scratch personally. Start with the Minestrone as the spices used in this vegetable soup are amazing. The Tortelloni Alla Boscaiola is one of my favorite dishes. It has mushroom and a smooth cheese filled pasta in a creamy mushroom sauce. Or you can build your own pasta in one of their many made fresh daily sauces. This is great to do in a big group so you can try a lot of them at once.
Bombay House: http://www.bombayhouse.com/
Tikka Masala. Tikka Masala. It is so fun to say but so much funner to eat. This is a chicken dish that is to die for. The tomato creamy sauce the tandoor chicken is cooked in could stand by itself. Make sure you have plenty of Garlic Naan bread to dip in the sauce. It is some of the best Masala I've had anywhere (although I've never been to India I did have an Indian professor in college and he liked this place). My wife always goes for the Coconut Chicken Kurma in it's sweet and spicy sauce which I always help myself to as well. Ah the joys of marriage. There is a location in Salt Lake as well so you don't have to drive all the way to Provo but since there is not an Indian restaurant in Utah County that can touch this place it's worth the visit if your down there.
Yamato Japanese Restaurant: http://yamatogo.com/index.html
This place was referred to me by some buddies that went to BYU and they assured me it was the only place to get great Japanese food in Utah County so this is the only place I have frequented so let me know of any others you like. The Tempura is some of the best I've had. Very light and flaky as some Tempura is a little too heavy if done incorrectly. I love their Beef Teriyaki with the Shrimp Tempura. Get some of their perfectly steamed Edamame and Yasai Tempura for an appetizer as well.
Carrabba's Italian Grill: http://www.carrabbas.com/
OK so I broke a rule and added a chain restaurant here. But since it is the only location in Utah that I know of it is well worth the visit. Since it is located in Orem and not Provo I can mention two Italian joints in the same blog can't I???? If you love Calamari everyone I've eaten with says it's some of the best but I would rather go with the Grilled Bruschetta. I'm a big fan of the Chicken Carraba as the sauteed mushrooms make this entree. The Tilapia Nocciola is a fantastic fish dish if you want something truly Italian exotic. The Tiramisu is a light way to finish off the dinner if you have not eaten too much of their fresh bread.
So now you're set for your next visit to Cougar country. Go ahead and wear your Utah gear as well as I have worn my Weber State attire and have not been turned away. The BYU/Weber State rivalry is just as big as the BYU/Utah rivalry right???
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
We will chat next year.....if their is a next year as it will be 2012 after all. Yikes!
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