tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15627597333095226472024-03-13T23:04:58.987-07:00DC Food & DrinksAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.comBlogger99125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-30588275653731840152013-05-05T12:16:00.001-07:002013-05-05T12:16:23.463-07:00Kotoya (Los Angeles) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Continuing my journey throughout Los Angeles I quickly noticed that I yet to sample a ramen house despite the fact that they a dime a dozen on the west side. It has been almost a year since I have moved here and I had not been able to coral any friends to go. I was finally able to check this off my list last month when I had some family visit town. </div>
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As we galavanted around town my sister had requested getting ramen because there are only a handful in DC. I decided on <a href="http://kotoya-usa.com/" target="_blank">Kotoya</a> which is right off of Santa Monica Boulevard by the 405. Kotoya opened its doors in 2011 by Shinsuke Horinouch who came from Asagaya which is a suburb of Tokyo.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K8PGZTB4yUc/UX8uJgbusEI/AAAAAAAABB8/WKkLGE35LLs/s1600/l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K8PGZTB4yUc/UX8uJgbusEI/AAAAAAAABB8/WKkLGE35LLs/s320/l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Since opening its doors two years ago Kotoya has quickly become one of the most popular ramen houses on the west side. Not knowing how long a line would be I decided on taking them on a Sunday night to be safe. Luckily my tactic worked and we were able to get a table upon our arrival. </div>
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My sister and I decided on the red ramen which comes in three ascending spice levels while her boyfriend went for the original ramen. The former consists of Tonkatsu which is a pork based broth, the latter also includes miso flavoring. Each bowl comes includes pork chasmu, green onion, bamboo shoots, bean sprouts and nori. I added an egg and some corn to mine to give it some extra flavor. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H6PCcG6g2pI/UX8uQrLmD8I/AAAAAAAABCE/qR0umPDAxH4/s1600/IMG_3294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H6PCcG6g2pI/UX8uQrLmD8I/AAAAAAAABCE/qR0umPDAxH4/s320/IMG_3294.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Level 3 Red Ramen)</div>
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Loving spicy food I decided on going all out and ordering their spiciest broth while my sister went for the least. Once the piping hot bowls came in we all briefly stared in awe at the beauty of the presentation. We then began devouring our bowls, I tried to take it in slowly to appreciate the interaction of the various flavors. The broth was rich and full of flavor and while the spice level was hot I kind of wished there was a higher level for me to conquer. The pork was fantastic, I combined it with the richness of the egg yoke and a mouthful of broth that brought me to culinary heaven. </div>
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We all left very delighted with the choice, each bowl was around $10 which is perfectly fine especially for what I got. I highly recommend giving this place a try. If it is your first time eating ramen or if you are a seasoned veteran you will be delighted by the quality of food here. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-49483585389809567452013-04-04T13:36:00.001-07:002013-05-05T12:18:02.248-07:00Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles (Los Angeles)<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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A week or so before I moved out west
a friend of mine who had lived in LA for a few years saw it necessary that I
visit <a href="http://roscoeschickenandwaffles.com/">Roscoe’s
House of Chicken and Waffles</a>. Being a fan of the famous sweet and
savory combination I added this establishment to a long list places to try.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ten months later I finally got around
to trying this famous restaurant. A couple of my best friends were in for the
weekend for a concert so I suggested a number of places to try while they were
visiting. The day after the event our mutual friend from the area volunteered
to take us all on a tour of some of the more historic and hidden parts of Los
Angeles which included a stop at Roscoe’s.<span style="color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LBDpsCmkZNs/UU_TLzUQr5I/AAAAAAAABBI/pfwwot0Sqmc/s1600/l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LBDpsCmkZNs/UU_TLzUQr5I/AAAAAAAABBI/pfwwot0Sqmc/s320/l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Photo via <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/roscoes-house-of-chicken-and-waffles-los-angeles?select=1Q-GzAZs_OnHeXnJKSHmYQ#Rfh-1CgNA4ukZQt8Cxux5Q" target="_blank">Yelp</a>)</div>
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We all had the privilege of driving through Santa
Monica where I live then going through Venice Beach followed by Marina Del Rey
and then into South Central LA. We visited the epicenter of famous Rodney King
riots and then went to Downtown to visit Koreatown, City Hall and the Financial
District. We took a lunch break in Inglewood to try Roscoe’s famous Chicken and
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Originally opened in Hollywood in 1975 by Herb
Hudson Roscoe’s has become an institution in the city of Los Angeles. Hudson,
who was originally from Harlem brought this traditional southern cuisine to the
west coast and introduced his restaurant to a number of his friends in Motown.
Word spread quickly and since its inception Roscoe’s has opened five more
stores in the metropolitan region.<span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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While the origin of this odd combination of foods
is shrouded in history Roscoe’s is one of the few establishments that has
brought it into vogue. Anytime someone mentions chicken and waffles one of the
first thing that comes to mind is Roscoe’s. I am well aware of its popularity
so I was more than ecstatic when I heard that we would be going.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As we drove into the parking lot I could already
feel my tummy rumbling in anticipation. We walked in and were immediately
seated and handed our menus. I scanned the menu for about a millisecond before
making my choice. I went for the classic Scoe’s # 1 which consists of a 1 /4 of
a chicken served with two waffles and a side of syrup. I also paired that with
a sunset which is a combination of fruit punch and lemonade to balance the
massive sugar and salt intake with an extra lethal dose of sugar or as I like
to call it breakfast in the South.<span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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(Scoe's # 2)</div>
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The rest of the table followed suit and our food
came out before anyone could even think about how hungry they were. Once the
food hit the table I had visions of my trips down south. I don’t know if it was
the Frisbee sized waffles, the ice cream scoop of butter lathered on top of it
or the delicious scent of fried chicken but this definitely wasn’t a
prototypical dish served in Southern California. Before taking a bite my
arteries began to quench at what would be a meal that would shave a couple
years off my life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Each bite delivered a wave of intense flavor; I
could literally feel a sugar high with every bite I took. I calmly cut off each
piece of chicken and wrapped it in the butter soaked and syrup lathered waffle
to make a miniature sandwich which was to die for. I got three quarters of the
way through my meal with tears of gluttonous joy before I had to stop myself.
My stomach could not handle any more so I left what remained to be taken away.
I left the place feeling ten pounds heavier, sleepy and bloated. But the meal
was well worth it, I also managed to sample some mac and cheese which was
fantastic but probably not the best idea being in the state I was in.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We continued our tour for a couple more hours and
found it almost impossible to eat anything for dinner. It was a fantastic day
that was topped off with a grand meal that was well worth the slight pain that
ensued. I highly recommend trying this place if you have a change, their
chicken and waffles rank among the best I have had and at a reasonable price.<span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0Los Angeles, CA, USA34.0522342 -118.243684933.209918200000004 -119.5345784 34.8945502 -116.95279140000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-39093337046824344762013-03-24T21:08:00.001-07:002013-03-24T21:08:51.410-07:00Le Saigon (Los Angeles)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My excursions through Los Angeles have brought new prospective on foods that I had only on the east coast. I have this belief that the closer you are to a foods origin, the more authentic it will taste. I put this theory to the test when with various sushi restaurants that I have sampled including <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2012/11/sugarfish-by-sushi-nozawa-santa-monica.html" target="_blank">Sugarfish</a>, which was my most memorable. </div>
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I decided to test my theory again with pho, one of my favorite comfort foods. Like Jerry Seinfeld I am a soup man, I love soup regardless of the climate or occasion. That said I do tend to have it only when it is cold or I am sick which are the only occasions people want to get pho with me. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B4K-WS09atw/UU5FTQt5DwI/AAAAAAAABAo/ng820nNHcQQ/s1600/l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B4K-WS09atw/UU5FTQt5DwI/AAAAAAAABAo/ng820nNHcQQ/s320/l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Photo via <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/le-saigon-los-angeles?select=CX0fazJ2Lju7nWNSq0obzQ#hycli7D8C7t2Nl-d2H-acQ" target="_blank">Yelp</a>)</div>
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To date I had a few unsuccessful attempts to gather people into going and trying a pho or ramen place. I finally gathered a worthy individual to try out a pho shop for the first time. I did some small research and found <a href="http://www.lesaigoncuisine.com/" target="_blank">Le Saigon</a> which is off Santa Monica right before you hit the 405. The place received 4 1/2 stars on Yelp so I figured people knew what they are talking about.</div>
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We ventured on a cold cloudy Wednesday afternoon which to me was the best time to devour a giant bowl of soup. The LA region had gone through a bit of a cold spell of sub-artic weather in the mid 40's, can you imagine the agony!! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg2YLxPmG_A/UU5G2JrUX_I/AAAAAAAABA4/e6OIEylaljg/s1600/IMG_2967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg2YLxPmG_A/UU5G2JrUX_I/AAAAAAAABA4/e6OIEylaljg/s320/IMG_2967.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Cha Gio) </div>
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The restaurant space was fairly small and empty but we were there before 7 PM so I wasn't too shocked. I had looked at the menu prior to coming and was salivating at the thought of getting Vietnamese egg rolls which are one of my several culinary kryptonites. Once seated I ordered them before the waiter had a chance to go over the menu. </div>
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The egg rolls came out relatively fast and were gone before my friend could ask me what was in them, he also order some per my suggestion. The rolls were fantastic but it did not seem like there was enough of a serving. I had read a couple reviews that attest to the fact that this establishment has small servings but brushed it off because of the high rating. </div>
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(Pho Dac Biet) </div>
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I followed my appetizer with my main course which was a basic pho with both well cooked and medium beef. Two pipping hot bowls of pho came out right after we had finished out appetizers. I could not wait to dig into it being as though it had been more than a few months since my last experience with it. At first glance the bowl it came in looked small to me as well so these reviewers seemed to have a point. I chalked it off and began my ritual of dousing the bowl in Sriracha, hot paste, and hoisin sauce.</div>
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The pho was mediocre at best, the broth wasn't as flavorful as other places I have been to and the beef didn't jump out at me. I was still ecstatic to have it and polished the entire bowl off before my friend was halfway done with his. I left feeling satisfied but not thrilled, it cost about $20 without tip which is way too much from what I am used to, especially when you consider the portion sizes were small as well. Sadly my theory did not play out in this instance but it was only one place so I hope the next pho shop I go to blows this experience out of the water. I'd recommend going if you are close by but it is average at best. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-8608915840479358132013-02-19T19:45:00.001-08:002013-02-19T19:45:06.700-08:00Gravy Train Poutinerie (Los Angeles) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All aboard!!! Our next stop on my never ending food adventure takes us to another food truck in the Los Angeles area. The <a href="http://www.gravytrainpoutinerie.com/" target="_blank">Gravy Train Poutinerie</a> is another of the multiple food vendors that roams around the greater Los Angeles area. This particular truck serves patrons a number of different takes on poutine.</div>
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For those who are unaware of what poutine is, it's a fantastic and scrumptious snack from our peaceful neighbors to the north. In its most traditional form poutine consists of french fries lathered in gravy and cheese curds. The dish has become wildly popular over the years and is very famous in Jersey diners. I have had quite a few experiences with this dish and have come to love it, in fact I reviewed a truck similar to this in DC which has since closed. </div>
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Every Wednesday a few trucks congregate in a lot near my apartment in Santa Monica. This hump day festival draws sparse crowds throughout the night and has become somewhat of bi-monthly ritual with two of my friends. Last month we attended because one of my friends, a native of New Jersey was dying to try this truck.<br />
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We arrived around seven to get a quick bite to eat before watching a movie nearby. I hadn't had my mind set on this truck so I perused around to see if there was anything else I would rather have. After a quick go round I decided to try this truck with my friend. They offer a variety of different takes on this dish including an Americanized version with tater tots and a fried egg or a Philadelphia style with grilled peppers, onions and steak both of which had me salivating.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DyEkLfR2QsQ/USLMyxvtlQI/AAAAAAAAA-E/UUvAk_dhzto/s1600/IMG_2210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DyEkLfR2QsQ/USLMyxvtlQI/AAAAAAAAA-E/UUvAk_dhzto/s320/IMG_2210.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I decided to go crazy and order their poutine sliders which consist of to miniature burgers topped with cheese curds, gravy and a side of fries. Being the glutton that I am I decided to cram as many fries as I could into each bun and eat with reckless abandon. </div>
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The patties were a bit bland but the poutine enhanced the flavor and complexity of the dish. My friend had the traditional poutine by itself and allowed me to sample. I then had a few moments of nostalgia, times past with my old roommate who introduced me to this food and all the times we devoured in after a night of debauchery. I also remember the DC truck which had poutine on top of a hot dog which to date is one of the most disgusting/amazing meals I have had. </div>
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All in all I was satisfied with my meal. It was filling, well priced and tasted good. While I liked what I had I don't think this truck particularly screams for my attention. I wouldn't die to try this again but would recommend giving it a try if you love poutine or are interested in stuffing your face with fries and gravy. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-55223594882801978112013-01-21T12:27:00.000-08:002013-01-21T12:27:39.703-08:00The Counter (Los Angeles) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Living in LA for a couple months now has altered my eating habits to align with the healthy culture that is Southern California. From fruit smoothies to fish tacos my daily intake has become much healthier than what it used to be. Right now I am actually flirting with the idea of being a vegan for a couple of weeks to see what it feels like. </div>
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But every once and a while I reflect on how liberal I was with what I put in my body and immediately want to return. Resisting this urge is very difficult and doesn't help when your friend asks you to go to <a href="http://www.thecounterburger.com/" target="_blank">The Counter</a>, a burger restaurant that allows you to fully build and customize your burger. </div>
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The Counter is a chain restaurant centered on the premise of allowing customers to have it their way. I found out about this place the same way I do with most restaurants I try by sifting through Yelp. When I looked through the first couple of pictures and saw a burger that was the size of a car battery I immediately decided to bookmark this spot to try. After consulting with a few friends who had visited in the past I decided to set up a date to try it myself. </div>
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I visited to their Santa Monica location on a Friday night with a friend who had been a couple of times. Like most chain restaurants the atmosphere was a mix of a bar and family friendly dining hall. Once seated we were both given clip boards with the menu on them. You have one of two choices, you can take the safe route and order one of their menu burgers or be daring and make your own from scratch. </div>
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I started building my masterpiece while nibbling on some parmesan french fries I ordered to start with. While Scanning the bevy of options over and over again an insatiable fever of hunger began to grow within me. I channeled my inner Ron Swanson to exuberant levels and set out to craft a burger that symbolizes everything that is great about America. </div>
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I started with a 1 pound beef patty which is the biggest they had to offer on a regular bun. I then added apple wood smoked bacon and a fried egg to make it a multi-anmial burger. I was in the mood for spice so I added jalapenos and hot wing sauce on the side. I thought about incorporating some fresh aspects of the food pyramid but decided to pass because they would just take up space. I topped it all off with a couple of slices of sharp cheddar to give it components of a classic bacon cheeseburger. </div>
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(My Amurica Burger)</div>
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Surprisingly it did not take too long for my burger to come out and once it did I stared in awe. Once it was set before my eyes I took my knife and pierced it square in the middle declaring it the meat lovers Amurica burger. I teetered off my power trip and sliced the burger in half knowing full well I could only eat half of it. I thoroughly enjoyed devouring the half pound of meat heaven, the patty was seasoned well and cooked medium rare per my request, the spice level was adequate and the egg wrapped the whole meal up. </div>
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In conclusion I can say that The Counter serves a respectable burger. While I will not go out on a limb and say that it is in the upper echelon of burger joints that I have tried they do a good job at serving you a burger however you please. Prices vary depending on whether you order one of their menu burgers or a custom burger. I paid around $25 for my burger, fries and a beer so it is not cheap. I can't wait to try it again to see what crazy combination my mind thinks up of next. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-80970384390881850692013-01-13T14:39:00.000-08:002013-01-13T14:39:53.318-08:00Bay Cities Italian Bakery & Deli (Santa Monica)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of all the things I could ask for when it comes to food, nothing trumps a dependable deli/sandwich shop. While New York will always and forever be king in this department the District provided some solid options to satisfy my need. When I moved to Santa Monica I did not have the same level of excitement. But this negative sentiment quickly dissolved when my friend Davaish from NYC came to visit. </div>
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Once he got settled in my place we went for a quick drink to catch up on the times. During once of his ADHD laced run on sentences he thought out loud and reminded himself of a renowned deli in Santa Monica called <a href="http://www.baycitiesitaliandeli.com/" target="_blank">Bay Cities</a>. He asked me if I had tried it yet, too embarrassed to tell him I was unaware of it I lied by nonchalantly replying no. To my defense I had only been there 2 months at the time so I think I can be cut some slack. </div>
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With both of us being foodies we decided to visit the next morning in hopes of having a good sandwich and cup of coffee to start off a long day of photographing the city. Our plans were shattered when we drove past the restaurant only to see a closed sign staring us straight in the eyes. We both failed to look up the house prior to going so we were unaware that they are closed on Mondays. It was a shame because that was Davaish's last day in LA so we were unable to compare and contrast our thoughts on their food.<br />
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After my two uncharacteristic gaffs I found it imperative to fully verse myself on the history of this establishment before I tried it. My research found that it opened in 1925 and has since served millions upon millions of customers coming to try what is said to be one of the best sandwiches in LA. Its fame and popularity have made Bay Cities a city wide attraction.<br />
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(The Godmother)</div>
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Once you enter you are greeted with a chaotic ballet of both locals and tourists perusing the deli, ordering sandwiches or shopping for groceries. I decided to enter this circus for lunch to try their most famous sandwich called The Godmother. A play on a classic Italian cold cut this sandwich is a love affair for most residents who praise it left and right. I decided to go a bit after the usual lunch rush to avoid the long lines, I also ordered online to avoid any other lines if there happened to be any. </div>
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With sandwich in hand I walked outside and found a table to sit and enjoy this sandwich in the unbeatable weather that Southern California has to offer. Like any meal I blog about I try to do some research beforehand to see how my opinion relates or differs from the consensus. After my first couple of bites I could agree with a handful of customers who say that the bread is tough, I myself will go a bit further and say that you could purchase this loaf and use it as a club of hammer. The ingredients themselves were good but to go so far to say that this is the best sandwich in LA is a stretch for me. My overall impression after my first visit was disappointing which I relayed to my friend back in NYC.</div>
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(Roast Beef & Cheddar) </div>
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I returned a week later to purchase a different sandwich and give this deli another shot. While I was walking there I debated on whether to have a roast beef or pastrami sandwich. I ended up choosing the former on the count that I only like pastrami warm and was not in the mood for a warm sub at the time. With it being winter now I decided to pass on basking in the 55 degree sunshine, instead I enjoyed my sandwich in the confines of my office nearby. While I did enjoy this sandwich a bit more that The Godmother I still found the bread to be a major issue.</div>
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All in all Bay Cities Italian Bakery and Deli is a solid option but does not come close to living up to the hype. Most of the time this place is a zoo so I would advise going during odd times, I myself do this because it spares the ache of sifting through the chaos and waiting in line. It is pricy for a deli but that comes with the territory of being in Santa Monica. I end my post with a piece of advice, if you are like this elderly lady that advised me to get The Godmother because "it is the best sandwich she has ever had!", please visit NYC. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-22708438705120103562012-11-17T15:51:00.002-08:002012-11-17T16:52:07.550-08:00Sugarfish By Sushi Nozawa (Santa Monica)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When I compare and contrast the quality of food from coast to coast there are a few dishes that can be debated on, some you call even, and others where it is not even a question. When it comes to Sushi there is no doubt in my mind that the west coast reigns supreme. While there can be many different reasons why this is so I believe the proximity to its origin is the most germane.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One of the several restaurants that stick to its Japanese roots is <a href="http://www.sugarfishsushi.com/" target="_blank">Sugarfish</a> by Sushi Nozawa. The restaurant was founded by Kazunori Nozawa who retired earlier this year after 47 years of service. Nozawa began his tremendous career in Japan cleaning dishes and washing plates as he worked his way up the ladder. During his stay he spent a good deal of time traveling the vast regions of Japan learning to prepare different cuts of fish.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Image via <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/sugarfish-by-sushi-nozawa-santa-monica?select=57EDJisPkDcAzzfd4NaalA#3sJJkx7udPy7bCDZjDQYCg" target="_blank">Yelp</a>)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After opening up a restaurant in Tokyo with his family he moved to California to share this amazing cuisine. His first shop opened in Studio City and as his popularity grew Mr. Nozawa sprawled out to various other locations in the Los Angeles region. His retirement this past February was a blow to the culinary world and I for one am sad that I did not get to visit the Studio City location which closed shortly after.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On the Brightside his teachings were passed down and remain ingrained in the remaining restaurants, one of which I visited this past week. As I strolled down 2<sup>nd </sup>street on a cool Thursday afternoon I could not wait to experience a traditional sushi dinner. Once I arrived my eyes were dazzled by lovely fixtures which lined the walls.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Since the restaurant takes no reservations it is up to you to make the best judgment on when to go. I expected a mild wait on a Thursday night but was pleasantly surprised when I was told it would only take 10-15 minutes. Before I knew it we were being seated in a cozy little both with the menus right in front of us.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For those who are unaware of what traditional sushi is I can sum it up with one quick phrase, it’s all about fish. Most of us have been exposed to the Americanization of this Japanese delicacy with rolls filled with an abundant amount of different toppings which is then submerged in soy sauce. While there is nothing inherently wrong with that type of sushi I feel like it takes away from the true meaning and even masks the flavor of fish to a large extent.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">At this restaurant everything is about both the quality of the fish and rice. What makes it great is that Mr. Nozawa has designed the menu to be friendly to both experienced and novice eaters. For the latter you can choose one of three samplings of sushi which are called Trust Me, Trust Me/Lite, and The Nozawa. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We decided to split the Nozawa which consists of organic edamame, tuna sashimi, albacore, salmon, snapper, yellowtail, halibut, a tono hand roll, blue crab hand roll, and the daily special which was seared scallops that day. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Our meal began by nibbling on the edamame and sipping some cold sake. After a couple of minutes the plates began to come out. Once a plate was placed on our table the waiter would give a quick presentation of what the fish was and if it had any sauce on it. In the case of the latter it is advised that you do not add any soy sauce. Throughout the meal I used little to no soy sauce because I wanted to fully enjoy each cut of fish. I also ate a slice of ginger after each piece to refresh my pallet.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As our meal progressed I could not help but notice how each dish exceeded its predecessor. It was as if Chef Nozawa designed the courses to resemble a roller-coaster of flavor. Each piece brought me to new heights and just when I would think the ride is over I would be blown away yet again. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Overall I have nothing but great things to say about my experience here. The sushi is fantastic, it sticks to its traditional roots and it the price tag will not kill you. The servers were both reliable and informative and the ambiance was soothing. If you are in the area and in the mood for sushi I would recommend making this your destination. </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-62143822776859839732012-11-03T11:34:00.000-07:002012-11-04T08:30:07.603-08:00Dogtown Dogs (Los Angeles Food Truck)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The food truck scene has been latest fad in an ever changing industry. I documented it well in DC where it is still in its infancy and now that I live in LA I get to explore the birthplace of this industry. </div>
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Currently I live and work in Santa Monica without a car so getting to any food trucks during my lunch break is a bit difficult and I have also been a bit lazy in finding online trackers as well as researching any particular trucks I wanted to find. Living here for just about 6 months now my sole experience with the mobile food industry came during a random outing on a Saturday night in Culver City. </div>
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I knew this had to stop so I made a real effort to reserach any gatherings that take place nearby. While consulting with some friends I found out that there was a huge gathering of them on the first Friday of each month along a prosperous street called Abbot Kinney in Venice beach. </div>
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I walked after work along the lovely beach neighborhoods and through main street until I hit the famous stretch. In the past I used to go to food truck festivals every Friday in Downtown DC and be amazed at the 20 or so food stands that encircled the park. But after a couple of I became a bit bored because I knew every truck there and had either tried them or had no inclination to. This was not the case here, in fact it was one of the few instances in my life were I felt overwhelmed at the shear amount of options I had in front of me. </div>
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I did not let it overtake me because I came destined to try the famous grilled cheese truck which I had watched on Food Network. I started from the beginning of street and walked down what seemed like an endless array of shops, bars and food trucks. When I came to the end of the line I saw a small lot where a couple of trucks had aggregated. The first truck I laid my eyes on was <a href="http://dogtowndog.com/about.html" target="_blank">Dogtown Dogs</a> which is one of the more famous ones in LA that serves hot dogs slathered with variety of off the wall toppings. </div>
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After briefly scanning the menu I instantly became torn. If you do not know I absolutely love hot dogs and find it paramount that I meet a quota, if not I start to viciously crave them. It had been a couple of weeks since my last dog so once I saw the truck my cravings for one reached a 10 on the Oscar Mayer Scale. As hard as it was I decided to stick to my guns and look for the grilled cheese. I found it in the same lot and was ecstatic until I realized the line stretched longer than the sands of time. </div>
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I knew then and there that it was my destiny to get my fix tonight and this truck would provide it. I gave the truck another quick scan and ended up ordering their Morning Commute and some tater tots. The Morning Commute consists of a dog wrapped in bacon which is adorned with a fried egg on top. I felt a bit devious ordering this, once it was handed to me I looked through my peripheral vision in search of anyone who would judge me for what I was about to eat. </div>
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I did my best golem impersonation (kidding) and took refuge to a place where I could enjoy this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLefs6TE80M" target="_blank">cylindrical concoction of mysterious ingredients</a> wrapped in bacon with a runny egg. Having little to nothing to eat the whole day I bit in with reckless abandon. The dog was juicy and well flavored, the bacon wrapped around it made it even better and the egg wrapped everything together. Before I could even blink I finished the whole thing. I then proceeded to text any friends that have a similar passion for hot dogs this picture while I munched on some tater tots. I then stood there contemplating getting another hot dog but decided to pass.</div>
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I left feeling good with the decision I made. While this was not the path I had chosen, I ended up at a crossroads and changed course which is what happens to all of us everyday. Not only did I have a great meal, I now know of another truck that I will be keeping my eye on. If you love hot dogs like me and are in the Los Angeles area I recommend giving these guys a shot. They have a number of other flavor options that are sure to raise your eyebrows. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-84134242723096533482012-10-29T13:52:00.002-07:002012-10-29T13:52:26.839-07:00Tender Greens (Santa Monica)I must apologize yet again for my rash inconsistency since moving to LA. The transition has been rough, odd, fulfilling, and suspenseful all of which have caused a number of my former hobbies to take a back seat. Another more pertinent reason is the high cost on the west side of Los Angeles which tends to inflate the price for everything as you may discover in this post. Even with all of these barriers I am consistently trying to rekindle my passion with writing and critiquing food.<br />
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Now that I am done complaining we can proceed to our next stop. <a href="http://www.tendergreensfood.com/" target="_blank">Tender Greens</a> is a local chain of restaurants catering to the stereotypical Southern California resident. They serve a wide variety of salads, sandwiches and small platters consisting of healthy locally grown organic produce. Luckily the closest location is right off the famous 3rd Street Promenade which is walking distance from both my home and work.<br />
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My first experience came during an impromptu lunch gathering on a Friday afternoon. The choice was surprising because my coworkers don't come off as being very health conscious. Regardless I welcomed the opportunity to try something new. Once we arrived we were greeted by a line walking out the door which is not surprising due to the high volume of people the neighborhood attracts.<br />
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While in line we basked in the gorgeous 75 degree sunlight with a mild breeze while scanning the menu. Before I knew it I was in front of the attendant who takes orders. Still unsure of what to get I happened to randomly pick the grilled octopus salad. Once you place in order you are subjected to walk along the open kitchen in an act of culinary torture. As I walked passed all the different food being prepared I could not help but second guess my decision.<br />
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At the end of the line I was presented my salad along with a fresh lemonade I had to go with it. Once I paid we ruthlessly searched for a place to sit in the chaos that is the lunch rush. We were lucky to scrounge a table in their outside patio area. The salad is rather large which is a good thing since it costs $11. I was given a generous portion of octopi which went well with the grilled lemon vinaigrette that is was topped with. Basking in the gorgeous sun on an October afternoon I could not help but reminisce of my weekly visits to Sweetgreen for a light salad followed by a walk along the Waterfront in Georgetown. <br />
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(Chipotle Barbeque Chicken Salad) </div>
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Enjoying my first experience I decided that spending my next Friday afternoon here would be ideal. When the day rolled by to my utter surprise it was a sunny cloudless day (get the massive amount of sarcasm). The line wasn't as hectic this go around which was a pleasant surprise. When it was my time to order I decided to order the chipotle barbeque chicken salad as well as a pomegranate lemon bar to treat myself for a hard week of work.<br />
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Once I was finished the culinary death march I was presented my food which made me $18 poorer. The salad consisted of romaine hearts, avocado, queso fresco, green onion, and crispy tortilla strips all topped off with a cilantro lime dressing. It was light and refreshing as expected, you can really tell the ingredients are of the highest quality.<br />
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(Pomegranate Lemon Bar)</div>
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After finishing my salad I proceeded to the lemon bar. While my time here has been short I can easily say this is one of the best things I have eaten in LA so far and one of the best snacks I have ever eaten. Each pomegranate seed burst with a tsunami of flavor that jolted my senses and matched well with the sweetness of the lemon. I am not much of a sweets person as you may know but I will definitely have this again in the near future. </div>
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All in all I am pleased with this restaurant. The food is good but pricy for me to go to everyday. The lines can be long but it is well worth it. When you go you can get a salad, a sandwich of sorts or a platter which consists of a meat (or tuna) with some delicious mashed potatoes and a side salad. A must try if you are in the mood for healthy food in the Santa Monica area. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com01312 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA34.016384176062068 -118.49763393402134.01309367606207 -118.502569434021 34.019674676062067 -118.492698434021tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-22086314031104828422012-09-03T12:41:00.000-07:002012-09-03T12:41:04.024-07:00James' Beach <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">When contemplating the venue of my first post in my new city I thought, what food do people think of when you mention Southern California? I think fish tacos, a dish that has a special place in my heart. I have come across this dish multiple times during food explorations and continue to sample the different renditions for the purpose of experiencing the culinary bliss that it brings me. </span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My undying passion for this simple meal made me search near and far for restaurants that serve the best fish tacos around. This odyssey let me to </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.jamesbeach.com/" target="_blank">James' Beach</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> which is said to serve the best fish tacos in Southern California. Nestled in the middle of Venice James' Beach is most known for its prominence in the film I love You Man. In the movie one of the characters claims that this specific restaurant serves the best fish tacos in California, a line which was put in by the director who truly believes this.</span><br />
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Having seen this movie back when I was living in DC I never really though of keeping a note to try this place when. Even after I moved it didn't occur to me to try this place until my friend commented on a 4square check-in asking if this was the place from I Love You Man.<br />
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After this I made it a priority to visit this restaurant. Unfortunately a combination of not having a job or very many friends delayed the visit. Once I was finally able to go I made the short drive from Santa Monica to Venice. Despite the fact that traffic was backed up on a Tuesday night I full of joy and anticipation. <br />
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In the back of my mind I envisioned a line filled with hoards of tourists going for the same precise reason as I was. Being the victim of a number of tourist traps I could only think how long the wait would be and the possible conversations being struck up or people blurting out quotes like THIS IS MY NIGHTMARE or where's Pistol Pete? To my surprise I did not see any of that. In fact the restaurant was mostly empty which had me guessing that something may be up.<br />
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(Carrot and Jicama plate)</div>
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Once seated we ordered a round of drinks and were given a complimentary dish of fresh carrots and jicama to nibble on as we scanned the menu. In this case there was no need for that since I came for one reason. Once our server came I informed her that I wanted the famous fish tacos which were the special that day.<br />
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Before I could even start to crave the dish it appeared before my eyes. The presentation is a bit unorthodox but I really liked it. Instead of being wrapped with all the ingredients you are given all the components to prepare the tacos as you please. With a tortilla in my hand I began to ration my fish out. I then added the pico de gallo and guacamole which was all drizzled with a bit of salsa verde. I then topped it all off with a light coating of salt, pepper and a drip of tabasco sauce.<br />
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(Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos)<br />
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Once my concoction was built I began to nibble while I waited for my senses to fully register the flavors and relay it to my brain. My initial thoughts were how well seasoned the fish was. What followed was the same feeling of joy that comes every time I eat fish tacos. Having enough to make three tacos I played with the flavor combinations. I found that excluding the guacamole really brought out the most in contrasting flavors, especially between the salsa verde and Mahi Mahi. </div>
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After our meal was finished I came across the seemingly impossible question. Where these the best fish tacos I have ever had? If you diligently read my posts this question appears over and over again and my answer is yet change. While these tacos were great it is almost impossible for me to stand here and declare these as the best. Even though I have sampled this dish a great number of times I still have a ways to go before I can proclaim this dish as the best I have ever had. That does not however mean that these tacos weren't extraordinary because they really were.</div>
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In conclusion James' Beach good restaurant. The interior takes the touristy look and somehow makes it look really cute. The service was fantastic and the drinks were good. The prices were a bit on the steep side so I would stick to the daily specials. I only hope to come in next time and spot Pistol Pete and Joben drunkenly cracking jokes next to me while we both enjoy some fantastic tacos. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-71629058023998821272012-08-31T18:59:00.004-07:002012-08-31T20:23:21.987-07:00Basil Thyme!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Bonjourno, our food truck expedition takes us on a tour of Italian cuisine. <a href="http://basilthyme.com/" target="_blank">Basil Thyme</a>, headed by Brian Farrell and Malik Umar has become recognized both locally and nationally as one of the best food trucks. The truck serves a variety of different lasagnas and cannolis to local residents looking to quench their appetites or carb up for the afternoon sit-down marathon in their cubicle.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Basil Thymes fame have made it a must try in the city and there are no signs of slowing. Its current popularity has boosted it to 2<sup>nd</sup> best food truck in City Papers “Best of” issue and 4 ½ stars on Yelp. Despite all of these accolades I somehow never tried this truck until this past year. Overlooking this truck wasn’t because of a lack of cognizance or interest but just something that slipped the cracks.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Image via <a href="http://iheartfood-dc.tezini.com/eats-basil-thyme/" target="_blank">I heart food DC</a>) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My first visit came around March when I took to the streets of Foggy Bottom while running some errands. I spotted the truck and decided to finally give it a try. I will be forthright in saying that I am not the biggest fan of Italian cuisine. I think lasagna, pasta, and pizza are all great foods but I cannot for the life of me think of an instance where I have craved any of these dishes. Regardless of my attitude I calmly waited in line browsing the selection of lasagnas. I decided on ordering the Lisetta which consists of slow roasted pork in a vodka sauce. I took it back to the office and enjoyed my meal. The portion size was perfect for me and the side salad balanced out the dish leaving me quenched.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">While I did not salivate like Garfield at the thought of trying the truck again I always kept the option open should there be another opportunity. This chance presented itself a couple of weeks ago when the truck visited M St. Still recovering from the removal of my wisdom teeth I thought Lasagna would a good option. To my chagrin the line was the longest of the three other food trucks in the area. I remember the afternoon vividly as it was one of the first days of excruciating humidity known as a DC summer. As I watched people in line melting away I began to second guess my decision of eating warm lasagna on a brutal day. I stuck to my guns and waited in line because in reality the heat did not bother me at all.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Linda Lasagna) </span></div>
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Once my turn came I was glistening like a chicken in the oven and seriously considered walking to an ice cream store to order a banana split. I scratched that thought and decided to order the Linda which is their most popular dish. It is a traditional lasagna that consists of seasoned beef with tomato sauce. I also ordered the cannoli of the day which in this case was chocolate chip. </span><br />
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I took my food and found shelter underneath a tree with my friend. While she giggled with amusement from my infant like approach to eating food I was savoring the flavors of a well composed dish. The lasagna was a hit but I was sad that I could not fully enjoy every bite without a throbbing pain in my mouth. After finishing off the platter I could not find any room for the cannoli so I took it back to the office to have as an afternoon snack. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Chocolate Chip Cannoli) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">About an hour after my lunch I found the need to snack on the aforementioned Italian treat. The cannoli was refreshing and well flavored. After finishing it I could only wish that I had another to split with a friend. My meal was a combo which came with a soda and run me $12 which is fairly reasonable in DC or any major city these days. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">All in all Basil Thyme does right in my book. While I am a huge fan of this particular cuisine I can easily see myself getting food from this truck if they were in my neighborhood. Now that I have moved to the other coast our expedition embarks on the LA food truck scene which most consider the birth of mobile cuisine. Until next time, arrivederci!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-81165722410101052222012-08-15T08:28:00.000-07:002012-08-15T08:28:36.715-07:00SUNdeVICH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Even though its been only two months since I have moved from DC there are a number of little things I already miss. Aside from my friends who I love dearly there are quite a few cultural differences that naturally arise when you live two thousand miles away. </div>
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One of these things is a dependable sandwich shop. I have quickly come to the realization that somewhere during the westward expansion the concept of a sandwich was lost. As I traveled west I distinctly remember having my last great sandwich in Chicago, anything afterwards was a utter joke. </div>
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Even though DC doesn't come close to competing with NYC or Philadelphia when it comes to the quantity of good sandwich shops it is leaps and bounds over the west coast. In DC most residents will claim that <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2011/07/taylor-gourmet.html" target="_blank">Taylor Gourmet</a> serves the best subs. I will wager that this group has yet to try <a href="http://sundevich.com/" target="_blank">SUNdeVICH</a>, which in my opinion gives them a run for their money.<br />
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Up until this year SUNdeVICH was unbeknownst to a majority of residents outside the Shaw/ Mt. Vernon neighborhood. I myself was unaware of its existence until I stumbled upon it on Yelp. I was even more shocked when I realized that it was within walking distance from my house. Towards my last couple of months their popularity quickly rose when they beat out the aforementioned Taylor Gourmet in a Washington Post poll. It was at this point that I made it a priority to give them a shot.<br />
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When I made my first visit I quickly realized why there were not well known. Hidden in the middle of an ally between N & O St. it is very easy to miss if you are casually walking down the street. I distinctly remember coming back from a run and stopping by on my way back. I initially walked passed it and had to turn around when I entered the actual address into my phone. Once I found it I entered and quickly scanned their chalkboard menu. I decided to order the Buenos Aires which consists of large chunks of steak and onions all on top of Chimichurri. For those who are unaware, Chimichurri is a fantastic steak sauce which originates from Argentina (surprise, surprise) which is known for cooking great steaks.<br />
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At the time there were no other customers so I decided on taking it home instead of eating alone inside an empty restaurant. Once I got home I let my voracious appetite take control while my mind drifted off. I only really remember being pleasantly surprised by both the quantity and quality of the steak I was given as well as the soft baguette it was served on. After that I made a note to go again after my Saturday football game on the National Mall.<br />
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(Paris)</div>
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After I did my best to imitate Tom Brady on the football field I decided to make good on my promise and quench my appetite with another one of these sandwiches. During my second visit it was empty yet again which was puzzling on a Saturday afternoon when people are out walking around. </div>
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Brushing that thought aside I quickly scanned their menu and noticed a sandwich that I did not remember seeing the first time. The Paris which consists of ham, gruyere cheese, tomato and dijon mustard on top of sunny side up eggs. To me this flavor combination sounds like heaven on a roll and I asked myself how I could have possibly overlooked it the first time. I then asked the server if it was a new item and she told me that it was a sandwich of the month that had recently been put on the menu permanently due to popular demand. </div>
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(Kingston)</div>
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This time I didn't mind sitting alone in an empty restaurant, mainly because I was so tired and hungry. But after taking the first bite I regretted the decision out of shear embarrassment. Once my teeth broke the light seal on the eggs, thus exposing the yoke which interacted with the ham and gruyere. The assortment of ingredients produced a flavor orgy in my mouth which produced tears of joy that I wish I could replicate right now. After I devoured the sub I highly contemplated ordering another but instead exited the property post haste in order to prevent me from making a foolish yet genius decision.<br />
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My last visit came during one of my last days in DC. I remember it being a rainy week which was symbolic of my feelings at the time. I braved through the weather and ordered a Kingston which consists of jerk chicken, pineapple salsa, spicy slaw and garlic mayo. To continue with the dreary theme the sandwich was a huge letdown. While the flavor combination seemed like it would taste fantastic I was left asking myself what I should do with the other half.<br />
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Unfortunately I did not have enough time to sample any of their other sandwiches and give them a chance to redeem themselves. But I figured that two out of three is good enough for me. While I will not proclaim that they have dethroned Taylor Gourmet as the best sandwich spot in DC they have pulled a good fight. The quality of their ingredients and their culturally diverse menu allows them to be called a superb sub shop in my opinion and one worth your attention.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-4575486709764033092012-08-13T22:18:00.001-07:002012-08-13T22:20:42.315-07:00Columbia Room<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We continue our food tour after a prolonged hiatus of which I offer my sincerest apologies. As many of you may know I have decided to start a new chapter in my life by traveling across the country and moving to Los Angeles. While I like to gloat that my travels were as courageous and daring as Jack Kerouac they were not but my experiences driving cross country share a number of similarities. </div>
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My transition has been difficult in many ways and have inevitably affected my daily routine. Now that I have fully situated myself and begun working again I can revert back to the routine that I enjoyed so dearly. While my posts will be primarily on the west coast from this point on I hope you continue to read and interact even if they may not be relevant to you. </div>
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I changed the name of the blog to <i>Channeling My Inner Fat Child </i>and hope to get more creative as I continue to feed my culinary curiosity. During my time off I have experienced a quasi-catharsis; I came to a realization that I enjoy traveling quite a bit and will dedicate more of my resources to feeding this hobby. </div>
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With all that taken care of we continue the topic at hand right were we left off. My last post was about the culinary outlandish and cocktail enthusiast bar <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2012/05/passenger.html" target="_blank">The Passenger</a>. Our next post deals with the <a href="http://passengerdc.com/columbia/" target="_blank">Columbia Room</a> which is a bar within The Passenger. Hidden discretely in the back Columbia Room is a reservation only bar intended for cocktail savants or people interested in taking a tour of sophisticated spirits.<br />
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Listed as the <a href="http://www.gq.com/food-travel/restaurants-and-bars/201010/best-cocktail-bars-in-america" target="_blank">18th Best Cocktail</a> bar in GQ the Columbia Room is easily on of the best bars in DC proper. As mentioned above Columbia Room is a reservation only so you can not simply stroll in at your own convenience. Luckily reservations aren't too hard to come by so don't fret.<br />
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Once you have reserved a time you simply go to one of the servers in The Passenger before your alloted time. The appointments take about 45 minutes to an hour depending on how many people are at the bar. The cost is $65 which includes two drinks that are predetermined and one drink of your choosing as well as a small appetizer. You can continue drinking after that but you start a new tab with the bartender and drinks cost a certain price which I don't know off the top of my head.</div>
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I have had the luxury of visiting this bar twice during my time in DC. As you may have discerned from previous posts I fancy myself a sophisticated drinker. Having a friend who owns a liquor store, going to a number of wine tastings and have a small click of friends who love fancy cocktails enabled me to believe that I knew a good deal about spirits and the art of cocktails. But after my first visit I was humbled and embarrassed to a small extent of how little I actually knew.</div>
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During this humbling first experience I was merely a spectator enjoying the experience. I took no photographs or notes, I just breathed in the experience. After that I set up another reservation for a friends birthday in hopes of recuperating a tiny bit of my dignity.</div>
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Once you enter you are greeted by the bartender who will be serving you for the evening. The bar itself is quite small which gives a really intimate feel. The exposed brick, dim lighting, and low ambient music offer a very chic modern atmosphere. Everything that is done here is as precise and organized as can be. From cooled glasses, shaved ice and even cucumber infused wash cloths everything is performed to perfection.<br />
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My tour started off with an absinth based drink which was magnificent. This was followed by a drink called Look Before You Leap which composed of Plymouth gin, sweet vermouth and acid phosphate with a orange garnish. The drink was smooth and complex and was accompanied by a seared scallop with a sea foam reduction which was also quite elegant.<br />
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As I mentioned above the final drink you consume is up to your choice. The bartenders are obviously very knowledgeable and can assist you in your decision. I remember during my first visit I had a playful argument with one of the bartenders about how horrible olives and olive juice were. The bartender disagreed so I dared them to make me a martini that I would actually like. Low and behold he made a fool out of me, he also provided me with their olives which were quite amazing.<br />
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During the next instance I had some more fun with my bartender. I asked her to make me a drink with similar qualities to a rum and coke. After she raised her eyebrows I said I was joking and threw her a curveball. I asked her to make the drink that made her fall in love with cocktails. She took a moment to compose herself and started making a traditional Italian cocktail composed entirely out of Vermouth. I wish I wrote down the name because I truly enjoyed every aspect of it which is a bit surprising because I am not a fan of Vermouth.<br />
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In conclusion I highly recommend making a reservation for the Columbia Room. It is a great way to take a date, celebrate a birthday or anniversary or just learn about the art of mixology. People think the price of admission is unreasonable, especially for only three drinks. I counter by telling them to either use Mint.com or ask them if they ever buy shots and if so to look at how expensive they are. Also this is a only a yearly experience, its not as if you are doing it frequently. I hope my pitch sold you because I know you will not be disappointed if you chose to visit. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-56085547148330406122012-05-22T14:34:00.000-07:002012-05-22T14:34:01.508-07:00The Passenger<div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">The art of Mixology is a far cry from the old days that started during prohibition and ended sometime in the late 1950’s. Cocktails were not reserved to a specific class of people but was something every drinker partook in. During its heyday an Old Fashioned, Manhattan or Tom Collins was the drink of choice. Nowadays your average drinker will have a bud light or rum and coke. This unfortunate circumstance has trickled up to bartenders who on average (at least with my experience) have forgotten or never even learned the fine art of making a cocktail </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;">Being a fan of cocktails I can’t help but remember the several instances where I asked a bartender to make an Old Fashioned or Gin Rickey and be looked at with a stare of bewilderment. Luckily there has been a recent revival of the classic cocktail. The days of having to go to semi-upscale bars or restaurants for a good cocktail may be over. One such establishment is The Passenger which has become my favorite hangout spot for a good old cocktail.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;">Themed after the prohibition era brothers Derek and Tom Brown opened The Passenger which has rapidly risen to fame becoming not only one of the best bars in DC but one of the best in the country. Located across the street from the Convention Center The Passenger attempts to revive the era of sophisticated cocktail to every willing and interested patron. The bar itself stands on a half used strip almost hidden by the average pedestrian.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;">Since my initial visit over 3 years ago I have been a loyal customer ever since. There is no time when I don’t want to visit this bar, whether it’s for a quick drink or the last stop before hitting the shack I will never hesitate going.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;">All their bartenders have years of experience crafting a wide variety of cocktails which suit any cocktail enthusiast. From a novice to sommelier you will surely find what you are looking for. If you like most people belong to the former category then you should look at their chalkboard specials or ask the bartenders who are more than welcome to craft something that fits your needs.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;">Aside from their extensive cocktails The Passenger also has one of the most outlandish menu’s I have ever laid my eyes on. At first glance you will be puzzled how some of the items were crafted or even by whom. A few dishes seem to be the work of culinary ingenuity while others seem to be the fantasy of a teenager with the munchies.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;">Every time I visit I always fight the urge to try order some food but the temptation is too much to resist. Whether you are sharing an order of their deviously delectable pork cheek nachos with a group of friends or snacking on some beef jerky by your lonesome The Passenger offers a wide variety of food that is sure to please anyone looking to satisfy their drunken appetite.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">In conclusion The Passenger is a great place to visit. It stature among the crowds do it little justice. The bartenders are very knowledgeable and accommodating, the food is both interesting and tasty and the prices aren’t extravagant. Its massive popularity has been a bit of a drag on the allure of the bar. What to me is a very intimate bar at times can be as crowded as a can of sardines. But that has not dissuaded me from going regularly, in fact I just tend to delay my arrival or go on off nights when you really a better experience. They also house The Columbia Room which made the list of one of the best bars in the US and is the topic of my next post. If you are a fan of cocktails or interested in trying something new you should give this place a shot. You will surely leave with a new found passion for mixology.</span></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-2775386626641034052012-05-04T21:07:00.004-07:002012-05-04T21:08:21.451-07:00Pepe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Did someone say José Andrés? Yes, the time has finally time to delve into one of the masters of molecular gastronomy. After reading this I will bet you that your first three guesses are wrong. No I am not critiquing Oyamel, Jaleo, or Zaytinya. No I am not even lucky or wealthy enough to try American Eats or Minibar. I am here to talk about his latest project <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/pepefoodtruck" target="_blank">Pepe</a> the gourmet food truck that is another step in the evolution of this booming industry.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chef Andrés immense talent and celebrity have made him one the of the kings of DC dining. His famous creations such as the aforementioned Minibar and American Eats have almost monopolized the fine dining experience in the district. His latest project is Pepe, a food truck that has also taken the district by storm. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Photo via <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/xF5cphbxvMKNdMRNSWAzkQ?select=DkrSE4MgKkHpsunrJUz34Q" target="_blank">Yelp</a>)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The menu consists of long thin baguettes called flautas which are adapted from everything José grew up eating in Spain. When news first broke of this trucks arrival I did my best to stay away for the first couple of weeks. Reading the initial stories that people waited in excess of 30 minutes in line I quickly discovered that I made the right decision. Once the smoke had settled I decided to monitor the trucks daily location and make the pounce at the right moment.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ironically my first experience came at possibly the worst moment. I first sampled Chef Andrés sandwiches during this past months Sweetlife festival. The initial sampling was a bit of a surprise as a friend offered me to try a couple of his sandwiches in a state of drunken happiness. I tried my best to fend off the drunken munchies but eventually fell victim to my own gluttony.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Pepito de Ternera) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">I was handed the Butifarra Burger to have for myself. As delighted as I was to have this I was barely able to eat it as I have been recovering from surgery to remove my wisdom teeth. I managed to devour a couple of bites of this sandwich which consists of a Spanish pork burger topped with alioli and brava sauce. The quality of the sandwich was off the charts, the pork was juicy which oozed with flavor and the sauces added the finishing touches. I was deeply saddened that my jaw would not cooperate with me during this experience so I gave the sandwich back. In a movement of miscommunication I was given the Pollo Frito which consists of fried chicken, lettuce, and piparra peppers which is topped with aliolo and brava sauce.</span></span></div>
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The Pollo Frito was good but nothing like the Butifarra burger in my opinion. The fried chicken was fabulous but the complimentary ingredients did not shout out enough. Also the chicken did not scream with as many flavors as the aforementioned pork. Needless to say I was fairly impressed with the quality of food and not having to wait in line was another good perk. My initial experience enticed me to visit his truck again this past week at the campus of George Washington University. </div>
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A bit weary at the prospect of having to wait in line I decided to arrive right when trucks usually open their doors (around 11:30-12:00). I was delighted when I turned the corner to see the truck with only a few lunch gathers standing next to it. I pounced in line and waited no more than 5 minutes to place my order. During that time I juggled between the Spanish Grilled Cheese and the Pepito de Ternera. In the end I decided on the latter as well as a Chocolate and Hazelnut Ice Cream Flauta. I placed my order and grimaced at the $19 price tag that this came with.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Pepito de Ternera consists of seared beef tenderloin, caramelized onions, pequillo pepper confit, and blue cheese. After taking my first couple of bites I knew that my money was well spent. The quality of the beef was astronomical, the pequillo pepper confit blended well with the juices of the beef and were perfectly complimented by the blue cheese. I was amazed yet again by the quality of food and puzzled how one can cook this in a truck. The portion size allowed me to follow up my sandwich with a dessert. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I gently unwrapped what I call an aristocratic ice cream sandwich. While the weather was not ideal on that overcast day I dug in regardless. The sandwich was deviously good, while I am not a Hazelnut junkie I could easily imagine eating this on a weekly basis. I left with a smile on my face and wishing I was rich enough to go here on a weekly basis. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In conclusion while expensive Pepe is a truck worth trying at least once. The quality of food you receive is better than any other fast food you can get. If you have a deep wallet try the Pepito de Iberico which at $20 is easily the most expensive item you can get in any food truck. You can also try his Sangria or Pepe Tonic which are non-alcoholic drinks! I skipped because I believe it is borderline blasphemous. Thankfully they accept credit cards so there is no need to bring cash. The service was on par and I guess I was lucky enough to not have to stand in a long line. So if you want to tour the 1% of food trucks then give Pepe a try. </span></div>
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-3784716744275562272012-04-28T08:02:00.001-07:002012-04-28T08:02:37.441-07:00Black & Orange<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The run on burgers continues with a fan favorite. <a href="http://blackandorangeburger.com/" target="_blank">Black and Orange</a>, formally known as Rogue States has come a long way in its short existence. Headed by chef Raynold Mendizabal Black and Orange has quickly risen to prominence winning this years <a href="http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/bestofdc/poll/foodanddrink/2012/best-burger" target="_blank">Best Burger</a> poll by Washington City Paper.<br />
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The road to prominence has been difficult for Black and Orange whose survival was in question a year ago. The establishment was originally called Rogue State Burger when it opened its doors in Dupont Circle a couple of years ago. Chef Mendizabal decided to use his years of culinary experience and test the waters by opening up a burger establishment in one of the most competitive markets for burgers.<br />
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The decision proved to a good one as the company gained massive popularity. It was at that time that I decided try these unique burgers with a couple of friends. Our guys night out started here when we all decided to see where they would rank among the other greats. Upon scanning the menu I decided to order the Pardon My French while my other three friends decided to play it safe and order The Rogue State. </div>
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What sets Black and Orange apart from any other burger place is the emphasis placed on the seasoning of their burgers. Each individual burger consists of a patty that is infused with a number of ingredients that are intended to compliment each other. Toppings are added per the request of the customer so be aware that if you order a burger it will consist of a patty and bun. </div>
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(Jayson eating The Rogue State)</div>
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The Pardon My French consists of a half-pound patty infused with black truffle oil and thyme. I decided to add brie cheese to add an extra dimension to the flavors and go with the French theme. I also placed an order of french fries which come with a number of flavored mayonnaise similar to that of <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2011/11/good-stuff-eatery.html" target="_blank">Good Stuff Eatery</a>. The burger was spot on, the flavors were all there, it was cooked to perfection and the brie added some extra pizzaz. I also sampled the Rogue State which consists of house spice blend, chipotle, and cilantro and was pleasantly surprised. </div>
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I left with nothing but rave reviews and anticipation to try it again. I put off my next visit for a couple of months and was deeply saddened when they were forced to close because the fumes from their ventilation system were spewing into a law office. As you could probably tell that was the worst place to piss off anyone as they lawyers successfully managed to close the place down. </div>
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(Pardon My French with Brie)</div>
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Chef Mendizabal was burdened with the task of installing a new ventilation system to in order to re-open shop. The cost of the system as well as the legal fees proved too much and the store closed for a long period of time. It looked for a while as though I would never get to sample one of these burgers again but luckily chef Mendizabal made a second great decision of re-opening shop and sharing his gift with DC. </div>
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A week or so after it reopened word came out that they were also going to open up a second location on U St. which has been dying for an infusion of burger joints. Once my eyes set on this news I became elated. While the name changed the burgers stayed exactly as they were. I decided to visit the U St. location (pictured above) about a week into its existence. The decor and vibe were exactly the same and I actually got to meet chef Mendizabal and thanked him for reopening (sorry I didn't mention I was a food blogger, I don't like special treatment).</div>
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Per his recommendation I decided to try the No Burger No Cry which is on the spicy side. The patty consists of a house jerk blend, red onion, and habanero peppers to ratchet up the heat. While the burger was seasoned well it wasn't spicy at all but hey this comes from a person who puts tobasco or sriracha on just about everything. </div>
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(No Burger No Cry)</div>
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Another perk to the U St. location aside from its proximity to my house is a burger that is only served there. Named Hair of The Dog this burger is a spin on a Bloody Marry. It consists of a patty which is blended with tomatoes, horseradish, and celery which is topped with Worcestershire mayo. I'm not the biggest Bloody Marry fan so I may never try this burger but I may be swayed. I highly recommend the Now and Zen which is my favorite of all the burgers I have had. This burger draws its flavors from the far east and blend together seamlessly. </div>
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In conclusion Black and Orange lives up to its pedigree. The burgers are well flavored, the buns are solid and the fries are on par. The prices like most of DC are bit high but it is worth it especially if it is your first visit. They used to have a famous slogan of being open till 5 AM every day but they recently scaled back their hours, especially on the weekdays. My only gripe is that the wait can be a bit long from time to time and they have been known to mess up orders but who doesn't. So if you are in Dupont or U St after a long night of drinking brave the lines and give this place a shot. If you aren't a drinker come give it a try anyways because the line when you go will probably be a lot shorter. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-75529269931954943672012-03-19T17:58:00.013-07:002012-03-20T16:27:00.355-07:00Pho 75<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">Now that the wretched season known as winter has become a distant memory I am forced to make my final rounds to sample as many soup shops as I can before the blistering summer months make one of my favorite types of food an afterthought. This takes us to Pho 75, a popular local chain that serves up bowl after bowl of this popular Vietnamese cuisine.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">If you are unaware what Pho is then I would suggest you read my semi-detailed explanation <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2011/10/pho-14.html">here</a>. If you are a Phonatic like me then you will surely appreciate Pho 75. With several locations across Northern Virginia Pho 75 has built a reputation of serving some of the best Pho in the DC area</p></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6G0tIiyzCJs/T2fWhQ_W87I/AAAAAAAAAuo/xvZJ4Btu9Kw/s1600/l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;color:#000000;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6G0tIiyzCJs/T2fWhQ_W87I/AAAAAAAAAuo/xvZJ4Btu9Kw/s320/l.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721777718582244274" /></span></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">(Photo via <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Ek_-kvajIvVJbi3ll4pMww?select=5ipHkrawpIGgR35qGp5cyQ">Yelp</a>)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">The décor is nothing to pout about. The two locations that I have tried closely resemble my middle school cafeteria. The plain white walls are adorned with a couple of pictures of Vietnam, the tables and chairs are purchased wholesale and each table comes with a hand full of spoons and chopsticks already there to use when your food is delivered.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">But alas we are all aware of the famous saying to not judge a book by its cover and in this instance those words prove to be ring loud and clear. My first experience with this establishment came during my early days before I blogged about food and my knowledge of Pho was rudimentary at best. Now I am a bit more cultured and refined in this area of food and am constantly looking for the best Pho in the area. So it is only natural that I visit this establishment since they are constantly mentioned as having some of the best Pho.</p></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z3OS7DDQ3Lw/T2fWhFApq-I/AAAAAAAAAug/Gx9sd4ruW1c/s1600/IMG_0544.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z3OS7DDQ3Lw/T2fWhFApq-I/AAAAAAAAAug/Gx9sd4ruW1c/s320/IMG_0544.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721777715366439906" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">My most recent visit came yesterday. It was a dreary overcast Sunday which is ideal weather for a piping hot cauldron of Pho. I drove across the wretched Key bridge into the nether regions known as Virginia. I tried my best to resist the cringe that engulfs just about any DC native when they cross the river but could not help shivering for a couple of seconds. I arrived at their Roslyn location as was immediately set back at what I thought was the line to Ray’s Hell Burger.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">To this moment I am shocked at the line running out of the door. A combination of food deprivation, post St. Patrick's day hangover, and overcast weather made the wait unbearable at times. But within 10 minutes a table opened up and our server promptly handed us their menu which consists of 17 different variations which are served in a regular or large bowl. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">It did take a bit of time to get the servers attention but we finally managed to flag him down. I decided to order the number 4 which consists of slices of round eye steak, well-done brisket, well-done flank, soft tenderloin, and bible tripe. A steaming hot bowl came out within minutes accompanied by the necessary accoutrement.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9X2sQaGP8T8/T2fWg8nucaI/AAAAAAAAAuU/J3IMj7b_8rM/s1600/IMG_0545.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9X2sQaGP8T8/T2fWg8nucaI/AAAAAAAAAuU/J3IMj7b_8rM/s320/IMG_0545.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721777713114411426" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">(Tai, Chin, Nam, Gan, Sach)</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">I methodically added the proportions of Sriracha, fish sauce, jalapenos, and bean sprouts that have taken months to master. Once my concoction was ready I began to dig in. The first thing that I noticed was how amazing the rice noodles were. The broth was also very flavorful and the various cuts of beef were superb. Each sip was as refreshing as the first and suddenly all my pains were eviscerated. I tried as mightily as I could to conquer the bowl but could not find the room to finish the entire dish. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">Once we finished we took our time as Pho settled within our bodies, during which I continuously tried to stave off the food coma that was attempting to ruin my Sunday afternoon. I gathered myself after a few minutes and walked up to the register to pay. Please be advised that it is CASH ONLY which I was aware of. The total for two large bowls of Pho and two sodas came out to $20.50 which is a steal. I then returned home where I immediately succumbed to my food coma for about an hour or two which felt amazing.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">All in all Pho 75 delivered on the hype. The Pho was great, the service was sub par and the atmosphere was an experience in an of itself. They have several locations around Virginia and are all cash only. It is widely popular so don't be as surprised as I was if you encounter a long line. There are a number of desserts and traditional Vietnamese drinks on the menu but no spring rolls or Banh Mi sandwiches which is a bit disappointing. I guess they do one thing good and they are sticking to it. So if you are in Virginia or are a Phonatic like myself give this place a shot and decide for yourself if they live up the hype. </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-60281744071473633822012-01-01T18:16:00.001-08:002012-01-15T11:35:23.044-08:00Travel Special - The Little Owl (New York City)<div>New York is one of my favorite cities. The atmosphere, architecture, nightlife and culture all make one of the best cities in the world. I try my best to constantly visit to take in the culture that is lacking in DC. </div><div><br /></div><div>Of all the dining options that the city has to offer there was one that struck my eye. As you may have noticed one of my favorite meals is a hamburger and the recent slew of burger themed posts may have you thinking that my blog has been transformed into a burgers only. While the though has crossed my mind I am too adventurous of an eater to do that. </div><div><br /></div><div>A while back I stumbled on an <a href="http://eatocracy.cnn.com/2011/05/26/meat-the-worlds-best-burger/">article</a> revealing what may be the best hamburger in the world. Naturally I was very fascinated by this and decided to read it. The story pointed to a small restaurant in the West Village named <a href="http://www.thelittleowlnyc.com/">The Little Owl</a> as having the royal distinction of making the best burger in the entire world. </div><div><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mqH0HgwUdGk/TwEUozRfjuI/AAAAAAAAArA/w9NgxMo_c8I/s1600/timthumb.php.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mqH0HgwUdGk/TwEUozRfjuI/AAAAAAAAArA/w9NgxMo_c8I/s320/timthumb.php.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692854095163920098" /></a><br /><div>As a burger connoisseur in training to be a Sommelier I found it paramount to sample this burger to both refine my palate and see if it lives up to the tremendous hype. I booked an early ticket and made my way toward the big apple. Once I arrived and met up with my friend we embarked on our journey to taste greatness. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once we arrived our journey was almost stopped short when we were informed that they were closing until dinner started. My mouth immediately fell to the ground but with some suave maneuvering we were able to convince them to seat us. </div><div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OOLeoaK2j0Y/TwEUoGU0duI/AAAAAAAAAq4/kbd6W0OlveU/s1600/IMG_1679.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OOLeoaK2j0Y/TwEUoGU0duI/AAAAAAAAAq4/kbd6W0OlveU/s320/IMG_1679.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692854083098277602" /></a><br /></div><div>The occasion called for celebration not only of in anticipation of a great meal but also for friendship and experiencing life at its best. We decided to skip the soda or beer which is what I traditionally consume with my burger and upgrade to some fine Pinot Noir. </div><div><br /></div><div>As we sampled the wine we were asked what we would like to order. Our server was met with the prompt and concise reply "two cheeseburgers medium rare". We waited in eager anticipation of our meals slowly sipping our wine and enjoying a Friday afternoon in the West Village. </div><div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UE81W4lgY9g/TwEUnwyUptI/AAAAAAAAAqo/89CXwMgKP3c/s1600/IMG_1678.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UE81W4lgY9g/TwEUnwyUptI/AAAAAAAAAqo/89CXwMgKP3c/s320/IMG_1678.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692854077316441810" /></a><br /></div><div>Before our burgers came out we each were given gourmet mustard, mayonnaise and ketchup . The ketchup was made by <a href="http://sirkensingtons.com/">Sir Kensington</a> which uses some of the finest ingredients to produce an aristocratic take on a classic condiment. The dijon mustard was produced by <a href="http://www.maille.com/">Maille</a> which shared the characteristics of the ketchup and provided a bit of bite to it which I really enjoyed. Lastly the mayonnaise was produced by the Hellmans which everyone on earth has tried. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once our burgers arrived we each looked at each other for a brief moment thinking the same exact thing. We were both pumped that the moment finally arrived and began to slowly consume our meals and both analyze and enjoy the moment of culinary bliss. </div><div> </div><div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JAC87iuKOZg/TwEUniYWMoI/AAAAAAAAAqc/7cZFQ9FG6Nc/s1600/IMG_1681.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JAC87iuKOZg/TwEUniYWMoI/AAAAAAAAAqc/7cZFQ9FG6Nc/s320/IMG_1681.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692854073449394818" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">(Bacon Cheeseburger)</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">To say it simply the burger was fantastic. Each individual component was spectacular and the sum produced one of the best burgers and meals I have had to date. The patty had an extraordinary seasoning and was cooked to perfection. The juice from the burger was so good that I put some on my fries. The cheese was a sharp cheddar that went well with the smokey bacon and the bread was fantastic. The fries were crisp and well seasoned and were combined with the aforementioned burger juice and gourmet condiments. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">All in all this was a successful venture but the first thing you are begging to know is if the burger lived up to the hype. The honest answer is that I don't know. Was it better than the <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2011/04/travel-special-le-burger-brasserie-las.html">777 Burger</a> in Las Vegas or a classic double double at <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2011/02/travel-special-in-n-out-burger-los.html">In-N-Out</a>? It is such a hard question to answer and the more burgers you try the clearer your answer will be. At this point in my life I could not give you a definitive answer and nor can any individual on the planet. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">What I can say that it was one of the best and definitely worth a try. So if you are a burger lover and find yourself in NYC then go and give this place a chance you will not be disappointed. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-71203511779938487782011-11-26T12:53:00.001-08:002012-01-01T16:42:20.589-08:00Stoney's Bar And Grill<div>Logan Circle is hub of activity and has become one of the more affluent neighborhoods in the District. What was first a destination centered around the Whole Foods Market has become a landing spot for a number of new restaurants and bars. Of all the new places one has stood the test of time.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://stoneysdc.com/">Stoney's Bar And Grill</a> which opened its doors in 1968 has been serving pub food to loyal patrons. Over time Stoney's has built a legacy of serving some of the best bar food in the District and is a local landing spot for neighborhood residents and loyal patrons. </div><div><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RbauCuaR8ro/TuUjgLgKNYI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/MkUo-F0cU9c/s1600/IMG_1672.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 238px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RbauCuaR8ro/TuUjgLgKNYI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/MkUo-F0cU9c/s320/IMG_1672.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684989140375582082" /></a><br /><div>My initial visits were primarily for their drinks. Their array beers and their proximity to my house made it a go to spot to watch sports or kick back a beer with a friend. My first experience with their food came during the World Cup where I watched a number of games with a group of soccer enthusiasts. </div><div><br /></div><div>We primarily ordered appetizers and their pizza which I will have to say is once of the best I have had in this city (thats not saying much). Then I decided to try a burger which are said to be their bread and butter. Scanning the list of specialty burgers my eyes were immediately transfixed on the One Eye Burger which consists of Swiss cheese, lettuce and tomatoes topped with a fried egg. </div><div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_5nO2e2reDM/TuUjfOUjXXI/AAAAAAAAAqI/OorY6xNBooI/s1600/IMG_1659.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_5nO2e2reDM/TuUjfOUjXXI/AAAAAAAAAqI/OorY6xNBooI/s320/IMG_1659.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684989123952336242" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">(One Eye Burger)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">What was presented to me was a culinary masterpiece whose taste brought me to brink of nirvana. The patty was well seasoned a cooked medium well, the egg brought another dimension of flavor that brought it over the top. After that experience I became hooked onto their burgers and have never turned back. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Since then I have sampled their bacon cheeseburger, chili cheeseburger and the Stoney burger all of which were fantastic. If you take a gander at this review or just scan their menu you will notice that this is not the place to dine for calorie counters. Their dishes are offshoots on classic American meals on steroids. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-trgTVkwo6j8/TuUje2mQvfI/AAAAAAAAAp4/kGrJpNAufMY/s1600/IMG_1440.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-trgTVkwo6j8/TuUje2mQvfI/AAAAAAAAAp4/kGrJpNAufMY/s320/IMG_1440.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684989117584162290" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">(Super Grilled Cheese)</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A great example of this is the super grilled cheese. This monstrous sandwich permeates with cheese and is stuffed with bacon and tomatoes rendering a masterpiece of epic proportions. This sandwich can tackle even the strongest appetites and is a must try. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Overall Stoney's has some of the best burgers and pub food in all of the District. The service is good, the prices are average and the environment is like any neighborhood watering hole. I advise everyone to give Stoney's a shot especially for their food. So if you are in the neighborhood stop by for a beer and maybe some food but do plan to workout after if you are conscious of your weight. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-78366950211727709702011-11-26T12:52:00.019-08:002012-03-14T15:30:39.781-07:00Hank's Oyster Bar<div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">One of the joys of living near a major body of water is the pleasure of having some of the freshest seafood available to you on a daily basis. While the waters of the Chesapeake Bay may not compare to the eastern shorelines of Massachusetts, Maine or Florida we still produce some decent seafood.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">The tri-state area bolsters a bevy of options when it comes to serving fresh local seafood. One of my favorites is <a href="http://www.hanksoysterbar.com/">Hank's Oyster Bar</a> which uses local catch to produce classic New England dishes. Hank's opened its doors in 2005 right along the cozy block of Q St. between 17th and 16th Street. A short walk from Dupont Circle Hank's has been serving patrons what they call "Urban Beach Food" under the guidance of executive chef and owner Jamie Leeds.</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6PUwduFlx5c/T2EZ65nHw1I/AAAAAAAAAtY/iJptQF8TYN4/s1600/IMG_0530.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6PUwduFlx5c/T2EZ65nHw1I/AAAAAAAAAtY/iJptQF8TYN4/s320/IMG_0530.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719881501425255250" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Chef Leeds came to DC and opened up Hank's which she named after her father who inspired her career in food. Since 2005 Hank's has become a one of the best locations to get fresh seafood in the city. Hank's does a fantastic job blending classic New England dishes with local ingredients and techniques.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Having an endless passion for all seafood I find it necessary to eat as much as my wallet can support. I enjoy visiting during the summer months when I can sit outside and grab a drink or have a cozy meal. Hank's is most famous for their raw oysters and oyster shooters as their name may suggest. Being a huge fan of these mollusks I love splitting an order with some friends or having a Po Boy.</span></div><div> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zvIX9uu8cgs/T16FGTRMf2I/AAAAAAAAAtI/Xq3IP5LOzEM/s1600/IMG_1341.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#000000;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 238px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zvIX9uu8cgs/T16FGTRMf2I/AAAAAAAAAtI/Xq3IP5LOzEM/s320/IMG_1341.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719154920105213794" /></span></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">(Popcorn Shrimp & Calamari)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Check on their chalkboard for daily specials and try their oyster shooters which combine oysters with alcohol that provide a unique culinary experience. Their popcorn shrimp and calamari is an excellent way to start off a meal or a good dish to share over a couple of drinks. The portions are fair and the food is fresh and delectable. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">My favorite dish on their menu that I have sampled has to be the lobster roll which is a staple of New England. The roll is accompanied with fries that are seasoned with Old Bay which is exclusive to this region. This marriage between cultures is well worth the hefty price tag of $23. The lobster meat is amazing and the buttered roll makes you want to stand up and praise the food Gods. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sezXVnHrZ_Q/T16FFx_e3II/AAAAAAAAAtA/y_SLoyEFe8Y/s1600/IMG_1343.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sezXVnHrZ_Q/T16FFx_e3II/AAAAAAAAAtA/y_SLoyEFe8Y/s320/IMG_1343.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719154911172549762" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">(Lobster Roll)</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>101</o:Words> <o:characters>579</o:Characters> <o:lines>4</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>711</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1539</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style=" ;font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">From their fantastic food to ambience that their restaurant provides (specifically their outdoor seating) Hank's is a must try. They have another location in Old Town Alexandria that I have yet to visit which may be more convenient to any readers from Virginia. To residents of the District they have prime real-estate and their outdoor seating provide a tranquil experience when the weather is nice outside. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Prices are a bit expensive which I why I can not go more often but the freshness and flavor more than justify it. It can get busy especially when the warm weather makes sitting outside alluring. So if you are ever in the mood for fresh seafood give Hank's a shot you will not be disappointed. </span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-60613000176425145502011-11-26T12:50:00.000-08:002012-02-22T20:37:48.047-08:00Fast Gourmet<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">Whoever has had the delightful experience of going on a road trip or an extended bus ride has most likely had the pleasure of living off of food from rest stops or gas stations. By pleasure I mean horror of eating greasy, processed snacks that are bearable for only so long. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">Couple this axiom with the fact that DC has a severe shortage of dependable sandwich shops and you are left with the following rule of thumb. You will never find good food, specifically sandwiches at any gas station in DC. But as we all know there is an exception to every rule which brings us to our next stop.</p></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1PxoiTE2sQ/T0JzAn5qiGI/AAAAAAAAAso/u7HQhSxgkgM/s1600/IMG_0890.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1PxoiTE2sQ/T0JzAn5qiGI/AAAAAAAAAso/u7HQhSxgkgM/s320/IMG_0890.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711253732007250018" /></a><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><a href="http://fast-gourmet.com/">Fast Gourmet</a> opened in late 2010 by two brothers who wanted infuse DC with traditional South American food. Located inside the Lowest Price Gasoline Station on 14<sup>th</sup> and V St. this tiny sandwich shop has blossomed into one of the best places to grab a quick bite in the entire city!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">Word of this establishment spread exponentially among the more prominent food bloggers who had rave reviews on the quality and taste as well as the numerous options. At that point I decided to bump this up to one of my places to try.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">My first visit came early last year when its popularity was still in its infant stages. I decided to grab a quick dinner after my workout at a nearby gym. Entering the gas station I could not help but chuckle. The combination of a sketchy crowd, bullet-proof glass and inner city junk food brought back childhood memories of life in the ghetto. </p></span><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wtFe8TM2MtI/T0JzmxblTZI/AAAAAAAAAs0/hC5_JVpPdNc/s1600/l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wtFe8TM2MtI/T0JzmxblTZI/AAAAAAAAAs0/hC5_JVpPdNc/s320/l.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711254387400461714" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;">(Image via <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/6-WPZUkS4xwcF-3sqZCU9w?select=8I0KMcMwDwPSoHnXcI37NA">Yelp</a>) </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">I took my time scanning the expansive menu and decided to order the Big Mason BBQ sandwich and a side order of beer battered eggplant. The Big Mason consists of grilled chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, onions all topped with BBQ sauce. The sandwich was fantastic, the chicken was juicy and the combination of ingredients yielded a delightful meal. The deep fried eggplant was also a pleasant surprise. It came with ketchup to dip but was good on its own.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">My first experience prompted me to jump on the bandwagon. My next visit came a few weeks later with a friend after a night of bar hopping on U St. Since they are open until 5 A.M on the weekend you could imagine both the line and crowd that it consists of (hint drunk people wanting something to munch on). </p></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qWa5yNeujIw/T0Jy-_RcCrI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/s5D5J1-_Emg/s1600/IMG_0449.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qWa5yNeujIw/T0Jy-_RcCrI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/s5D5J1-_Emg/s320/IMG_0449.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711253703921240754" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;">(Cuban Sandwich)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">This time I decided to order a Cuban sandwich to see if the owners could replicate the brilliance of Latin cuisine. My semi-drunken experience with this staple of Cuban cuisine left me speechless. I cannot recall having a better Cuban sandwich in my life. Timid by the possibility of a drunken bias I decided to return an order another one in a state of pure sobriety.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">To my delightful surprise my initial synopsis was correct. The sandwich was pure bliss; the pork was moist and flavorful, the cheese and pickles combined to add that distinct flavor combination that makes it one of the best sandwiches on the planet. DC does not have an expansive selection of Cuban cuisine so putting it on top is not an amazing achievement but I will put it on par with Cubans I have had in Miami which is something to gloat about.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span>For all the praise I give the Cuban it is not the most popular dish on the menu. This accolade belongs to The Chivito. The Chivito (which is Spanish for “baby goat”) draws its origins from Uruguay. The sandwich consists of beef terderloin, black forest ham, bacon, mozzarella cheese, green olives, a hardboiled egg, and escabeche. For those who don't know escabeche is a slaw that consists of onions, garlic, and peppers and is used in many Latin dishes. </span></p></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kn_-c5kJG8I/T0Jy-elvgzI/AAAAAAAAAsE/LFhcM9lV2Dw/s1600/IMG_0457.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;color:#000000;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kn_-c5kJG8I/T0Jy-elvgzI/AAAAAAAAAsE/LFhcM9lV2Dw/s320/IMG_0457.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711253695148032818" /></span></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;">(Chivito Sandwich) </span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span>At a hefty $13 this sandwich packs a huge punch of size and flavor that is sure to tame any appetite.<span> </span>My first experience with this monstrous mound of meat came two weekends ago after a long workout I needed to justify consuming this meal. <span> </span>Having played football for three hours and not eaten anything my appetite was ready to conquer this behemoth.<span> </span></span><span><span> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span><br /></span></p></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; ">My first bites were met with utter amazement. The shear chaos of flavors somehow managed to blend very well. I was a bit weary at first of how all the meats would blend together but the sandwich was executed very well. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; ">The tenderloin was full of flavor and the ham played off well with the slaw and aforementioned tenderloin. I managed to consume a little over three quarters of the sandwich before I had to throw in the towel.<span> </span>The result was an hour long food coma which was pure bliss.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">All in all fast gourmet is a must try if you are in the District. The sandwiches are fantastic, the prices are about average and the quality of food is superb. The dining area is relatively small so I would recommend taking it to go. Lines can be a little long now due to their popularity and it does take some time to get your meal but it’s a price you can pay for deliciousness.</p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-24664338237457217592011-11-21T15:02:00.017-08:002012-03-26T15:42:08.528-07:00Good Stuff Eatery<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">As we have already established Washington DC is a burger town and in my opinion the burger capital of the USA. The influx of burger establishments over the past few years has turned the nation’s capital into a glutton’s fantasy. The bevy of options have at times caused me to curse the food gods. At this point in time I have sampled a majority of burger shops and have slowly but surely refined my palate. With each new place I try I get a clearer understanding of what my favorite burger shop is and for over a year that answer has stayed the same.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><a href="http://www.goodstuffeatery.com/">Good Stuff Eatery</a> located on Capitol Hill has been serving residents of the District some of the best burgers in the entire city. Owned and operated by Chef Spike Mendelsohn Good Stuff Eatery has quickly become a go to destination for burgers and shakes. Chef Spike whose success on the popular show Top Chef has risen to fame in the DC area and prompted him to open up We, The, Pizza next door and branch out another Good Stuff in Virginia.</p></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RwFcItc3Sz0/T29q5YSofBI/AAAAAAAAAwI/koNM6Ep0i2o/s1600/l%2B13-01-46.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RwFcItc3Sz0/T29q5YSofBI/AAAAAAAAAwI/koNM6Ep0i2o/s320/l%2B13-01-46.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723911185416879122" /></a><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><div class="HOEnZb adM"><div class="im"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">Chef Spike who works with his parents dole out hundreds of hand crafted burgers, fries, and shakes to hungry patrons on a daily basis. Whether its summer interns on the hill, local residents, or even the President of the United States Chef Spike crafts the same simple burgers that produce and immeasurable amount of flavor.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p></div></div></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">My first visit came over a year ago per the request of one of my closest friends. She had nothing but rave reviews about her experience there. Even though the experience is so far back it is still scolded in my mind. During that visit I decided to order the Spike’s Sunnyside, an order of Spike’s village fries, and a toasted marshmallow shake. The burger consists of a juicy patty served with fresh cheese, applewood bacong and a sunny side up egg all topped with Good Stuff sauce. The fries were seasoned with thyme, rosemary and sea salt which can be dipped in an assortment of flavored mayonnaises. Flavors include regular, Old Bay, Sriracha, Chipotle, and Mango </p></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">Once I placed my order I waited in anticipation for what sounded like an outstanding burger. I received my buzzer and took my seat upstairs waiting for my order to be ready for pick up. Those 5 minutes or so seemed like an eternity; a combination of the continuous hype as well as the lack of food in my system made the wait unbearable at times. Suddenly I felt the vibrations and saw the flickering red lights which signaled the arrival of my meal. Once I had my order in hand I took a second to gather my thoughts and relax my senses.</p></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RTf3E4G5Tqo/T29q45XQuMI/AAAAAAAAAwA/9xCWMl_ppsQ/s1600/IMG_1508.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RTf3E4G5Tqo/T29q45XQuMI/AAAAAAAAAwA/9xCWMl_ppsQ/s320/IMG_1508.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723911177114794178" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">(Spike's Sunnyside, Village Fries, and Toasted Marshmallow Shake)</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">My first bite was met with culinary bliss; I immediately scanned my memory to find a specific instance when I experienced culinary nirvana to that degree. My initial thoughts were with my experiences with <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2011/02/travel-special-in-n-out-burger-los.html">In-N-Out Burger</a> as well as <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2011/04/travel-special-le-burger-brasserie-las.html">Le Burger Brasserie</a> in Las Vegas. I conversed with my friend who placed the same exact order and see what he had to think about it. His response was “This is so fucking delicious” which was exactly what I was thinking as was I devouring my burger with reckless abandonment.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">The flavor that is extracted from the meat is fantastic and the combination of runny egg yolk, bacon, and their special sauce was to die for. The fries, while a bit soggy for my liking were wonderfully seasoned. The assortment of flavored mayonnaises was an added bonus. The Sriracha and Old Bay are my favorites but you can’t go wrong with any of the flavors. The toasted marshmallow shake was out of this world but I could not find the extra space in my already bloated abdomen to finish it.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; line-height: normal; ">What followed was one of the most grueling 3 block walks to the metro. But all was worthwhile because I found a new burger place which I can call my favorite. Ever since then I have been introducing friends in the hope that they will agree with my assessment. Since my initial visit I have branched out and tried some of their other specialty burgers including the Colletti’s Smokehouse, Good Stuff Melt and the Prez Obama Burger. <span> </span></p></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yf6Km-bVxME/T29q4Xj1YWI/AAAAAAAAAv0/5LQ7KJEcDl4/s1600/IMG_1338.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yf6Km-bVxME/T29q4Xj1YWI/AAAAAAAAAv0/5LQ7KJEcDl4/s320/IMG_1338.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723911168040722786" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">(Prez Obama Burger and Vidalia Onion Petals)</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span style="line-height: 18px; ">The Obama Burger was my favorite of the bunch and is second only to Spike’s Sunnyside. It consists of their fresh patty with applewood bacon, onion marmalade, and Roquefort cheese which is all topped with horseradish mayonnaise. I ordered this burger with a side of Vidalia onion petals to change things up. While the picture doesn’t look appetizing (most of the burgers don’t) there were some strong flavors that meshed well and gave the Sunnyside a run for its money. The onion petals were a bit of a letdown so I would recommend that you stick to with the fries.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span style="line-height: 18px; "><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><span style="line-height: 18px; ">All in all Good Stuff lives up to the hype and is currently my favorite destination for a burger. I continue to introduce friends mainly because it’s an excuse to go. The prices are a bit expensive but what isn’t in DC. The lines can get long because of its popularity; you will also get large crowds of tourists because of its proximity to the Capital so be prepared. Their one huge flaw is that they are closed on Sunday’s which really sucks but it is something I have gotten over. If you haven’t noticed I highly recommend the Spike’s Sunnyside and the marshmallow shake. Hopefully you are lucky enough to visit when he is behind the counter and thank him for what he has brought to DC.</span></p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-788586328275979022011-11-07T17:34:00.000-08:002011-11-07T18:17:47.520-08:00Far East Taco Grille<div> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>108</o:Words> <o:characters>616</o:Characters> <o:lines>5</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>756</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1539</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">Our food truck tour continues with a recent addition to the ever growing fleet of mobile vendors. The <a href="http://www.facebook.com/FarEastTG">Far East Taco Grille</a> which opened its doors in early September takes tacos, a traditional latin dish and adds Asian flare. This fusion of cultures is in vogue not only in brick and mortar restaurants but also with food trucks in and out of this city.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">My first experience with fusion tacos came this past year when I sampled the <a href="http://dcfoodanddrinks.blogspot.com/2010/11/takorean.html">TaKorean</a> truck. The two experiences that went behind that post were positive, so when I heard that there was another truck that served similar food I pounced on it as quickly as I could. As you may know by now my Latin background has somehow encoded tacos into my DNA; they are as much a staple in my life as sleep, water, and air.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment--></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-50eKSrNZXU8/TriKSjGU2tI/AAAAAAAAAoI/us1VsD1uB2A/s1600/IMG_1603.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-50eKSrNZXU8/TriKSjGU2tI/AAAAAAAAAoI/us1VsD1uB2A/s320/IMG_1603.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672435781937191634" /></a> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>107</o:Words> <o:characters>610</o:Characters> <o:lines>5</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>749</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1539</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> </span><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">Once I became aware of their truck I began to follow them on twitter and waited for them to serve anywhere near the Georgetown. My wish came to fruition later that week when they arrived at the State Department. Once the clock struck noon I began my journey to their location in pursuit of taco bliss. On the way there I glanced at their menu on my iPhone and thought long and hard on what I was going to order.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">My knowledge or lack thereof when it comes to Asian cuisine proved to be an impediment when I was trying to finalize my decision. While I have exposed my palate to Asian cuisine that is not enough to internally justify what I believe is adequate knowledge for constructing the perfect taco with the ingredients presented to me.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GGV89OlXvUU/TriKSXlQf3I/AAAAAAAAAn0/eRV3SVM5U6Q/s1600/l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GGV89OlXvUU/TriKSXlQf3I/AAAAAAAAAn0/eRV3SVM5U6Q/s320/l.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672435778845704050" /></a><br /></span></div><div> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>147</o:Words> <o:characters>840</o:Characters> <o:lines>7</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>1031</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1539</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">Once I arrived at their black truck I was still unsure as to how I would pair each taco. Each taco comes with one choice of meat, one vegetable slaw, one sauce, and four different topping which are unlimited. I knew beforehand that I was going to try each different meat but pairing it with a slaw and sauce proved to be a challenge to me since I take tacos very seriously.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">While waiting in the long line I finalized my decision. I decided to order a powerful steak (rib-eye steak) with Sriracha sauce, kimchi-lime slaw and all the toppings (cilantro, chopped onion, sesame seed, and lime-crema). I also ordered a bang tang teriyaki chicken taco with their #15 sauce, sweet chili romaine slaw, and all the toppings. The last taco I ordered was a sweet sexy tofu with grilled bean sprouts, spicy mayo sauce and all the toppings. After waiting a few minutes my order was presented to me, at which point I took it to a nearby bench to enjoy one of my favorite meals.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment--></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-76dVFPyqgZA/TriKSM8QbsI/AAAAAAAAAns/i7_i6aLSiRQ/s1600/IMG_1588.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-76dVFPyqgZA/TriKSM8QbsI/AAAAAAAAAns/i7_i6aLSiRQ/s320/IMG_1588.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672435775989378754" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">(Powerful Steak, Bang Tang Teriyaki, and Sweet Sexy Tofu Taco)</div></span></div><div> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>251</o:Words> <o:characters>1434</o:Characters> <o:lines>11</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>2</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>1761</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1539</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">I dissected each taco carefully trying to both enjoy the flavor combinations, identify which components matched well and what needed to be added or removed. The steak taco was constructed perfectly, the juicy and flavorful meat mixed well with kimchi lime slaw and the minor kick of the Sriracha offered remnants of past taco experiences. The chicken taco while good was not great, I initially wanted to order it with either the spicy mayo or pineapple sauce but wanted to try something new. The #15 sauce while flavorful reminded me of a peanut flavored Thai sauce which I do not like. The tofu was the biggest surprise of the three; while I enjoy tofu from time to time it is almost sacrilegious to have a taco devoid of some animal. To my suprise it was a huge success, the tofu was full of flavor and the spicy mayo offered an extra kick of flavor.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">My first experience was met with a great deal of curiosity. I wanted to tinker more with the flavor combinations in order to create the perfect Asian taco. I attempted this feat earlier today when I visited them at the GW campus. I stuck with my original steak taco since I enjoyed it so much, I also ordered two chicken tacos in order to remedy the blunder of the original. The first chicken taco came with the spicy mayo, sweet chili romaine slaw and all the toppings. The second taco was adorned with pineapple sauce, romaine vinaigrette and all their toppings. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia;">The steak taco tasted even better than I remembered from my first experience and the two chicken tacos were magnificent. If I had to choose one I would prefer the one with the spicy mayo as it blended better with the sweet chili romaine slaw. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">All in all my two experiences with this vendor were positive. The ingredients are flavorful the the taste combinations are pure ecstasy. Their service is prompt but the lines during both instances were long. They are cash only at this point and their prices are average (3 tacos cost $8). The only thing that would make them better would be to serve ice cold beer which is almost necessary when devouring tacos but that is not possible with food trucks. Definitely worth a try if you are a fan of tacos or Asian cuisine. </span></p> <!--EndFragment--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-81055813898518750522011-11-02T16:52:00.002-07:002012-08-31T20:26:12.204-07:00American Ice Company<div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">Everyone has their own neighborhood watering hole. A place where you can take a quick stroll with a friend or roommate to have a drink or a bite to eat after work or during a lazy weekend afternoon. Some are luckier than others when it comes to their choices for a neighborhood bar. I consider myself lucky enough to live a couple blocks away from one of the newest and most popular bars on U St.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;"><a href="http://amicodc.com/" target="_blank">American Ice Company</a> opened its doors a little over a year ago and has quickly become one of the more popular bars on the block. American Ice Company is brought to you by the owners of Marvin and The Gibson. The attempt her is to try to blend the chic, relaxed environment of their two successful ventures and add a bit more of an edge to give it a more dive feel.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-88qzKUK1XJ4/TzCJWl0_mrI/AAAAAAAAAr4/dTA1PUPK3ow/s1600/IMG_1034.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706211749082929842" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-88qzKUK1XJ4/TzCJWl0_mrI/AAAAAAAAAr4/dTA1PUPK3ow/s320/IMG_1034.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 239px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">The bar was erected in a former car repair shop and hidden on the mostly residential V St. Its obscure location adds to the allure and experience of visiting. Every time I introduce a friend to the bar I am always met with the question “Where the hell are you taking me?” which never ceases to amuse me.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">The decor consists of exposed brick which gives it a bit of an urban rustic feel. The outdoor patio which is heated during the winter is definitely better during the spring and summer months. As you enter the bar your nasal cavity will absorb the distinct scent of barbecue emanating from the open kitchen. Your ears may hear the sound of a cleaver pounding meat and see the sweat of a chef hard at work preparing endless platters of food that are doled out each day.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">The restaurant has a mix of table and bar seating which appeal to different groups depending on both the size of your party and whether you are there to eat or not. The chalkboard display lists a diverse set of beers that come either in cans (Metal) or on tap (Jar). The list contains a good mix of beers that will appeal to hipsters and aristocratic beer lovers. The beers are served in mason gars which seem to be in vogue but suit this bar especially well.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Of the many times I have been here I can say that I enjoy the experience regardless of the time or day. I have introduced a countless number of people here to share a couple beers or eat some food. Its proximity to my home makes it either the first or last bar I visit when I go out. Finding an open table can be extremely difficult since it is a first come first serve policy so be weary of that and plan to come early if you want to sit down and enjoy some food with a group of friends.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">If you choose that path I highly suggest placing an order of swachos. This dish puts a southern approach to a traditional Latin snack. The basic formula to understanding the name of this dish is swine + nachos = swachos. The platter consists of nacho chips smothered with queso and pork to produce a delectably devious mound of deliciousness.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">It is by far my favorite dish on the menu and a must order for a group of two or more. I love to pair it with a Dos X tall boy to keep with the roots of the dish and because it is the best Mexican beer! Of the other dishes to share I would suggest the pickle sampler which contains an assortment of flavored pickles which is sure to entice any pickle lover.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">For the individual options you have your choice of pork, turkey or brisket that come in a sandwich or platter. The former comes simply with slaw while the latter adds brown beans. You can also order the late nighter which is available only after a certain hour. You will have to ask the bartender what is in it because I only sampled it once and by that I mean my friend and I spit it after a loooong night out so my attention level was at an all time minimum.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">Of the individual dishes I have sampled both the pork sandwich and sampler. The pork is full of flavor, the beans share the same characteristic, and the coleslaw is on par. I myself am not the best judge of barbecue seeing as though DC does not have a bevy of options with this cuisine.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">Regardless I have heard from Southerners that it is respectable but does not compare with what you can get in the South. I would take the assessment as a favorable endorsement because I do not expect those results to be replicated just like I don’t expect to find the best clam chowder in Alabama.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">All in all American Ice Company is a destination that you must visit. Whether it’s for a Sunday fun day, an all night beer marathon, or to grab a bite of some solid BBQ this bar is a must try. The atmosphere is unique, the décor suits it perfectly, and the experience is one to live for. This place has blown up (cue the hipster spew) since its opening so there are lines many times, especially when it is nice outside which has become annoying as of late. The prices are reasonable for DC and the service is on par. If you have a chance I would advise you to take the sketchy walk, you are sure to come out with a positive experience. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1562759733309522647.post-21668912635873830932011-11-01T19:18:00.000-07:002011-11-02T16:51:42.427-07:00Rolling Ficelle<div> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>124</o:Words> <o:characters>711</o:Characters> <o:lines>5</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>873</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1539</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span>My recent reporting, or lack thereof with food trucks became apparent when I noticed how far back my last post was. This prompted me to make a greater effort to escape the confines of Georgetown and bike to various food truck hotspots during my lunch break. Last month I accompanied a friend to the weekly Farragut Friday gathering of a large number of popular food trucks.</span><span><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span style=" ">The number of new trucks I saw was a complete shock and speaks to the rapid evolution of this industry. As I walked around the park slowly observing each individual truck a black and orange truck immediately caught my eye. The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RollingFicelle?sk=info">Rolling Ficelle</a> led Juan Jose Quintana serves a variety of sandwiches whose recipes are drawn a culinary team with years of experience. Each sandwich is served on a ficelle (French for string) which is a thinner version of baguette from the Lyon Bakery in DC.</span><span style=" "><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E4ESmf8CTAM/TrCpxfWLGWI/AAAAAAAAAnk/U8x-8J8reOw/s1600/IMG_1581.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E4ESmf8CTAM/TrCpxfWLGWI/AAAAAAAAAnk/U8x-8J8reOw/s320/IMG_1581.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670218598552639842" /></a><br /></span><div> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:template>Normal</o:Template> <o:revision>0</o:Revision> <o:totaltime>0</o:TotalTime> <o:pages>1</o:Pages> <o:words>158</o:Words> <o:characters>901</o:Characters> <o:lines>7</o:Lines> <o:paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs> <o:characterswithspaces>1106</o:CharactersWithSpaces> <o:version>11.1539</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:donotshowrevisions/> <w:donotprintrevisions/> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:usemarginsfordrawinggridorigin/> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span style=" ">While waiting in line I was able to scan their menu and look enviously at sandwiches that were being eaten. Flabbergasted at which sandwich I should try I finally decided on the Davis which consists of chicken breast topped with parsley, lemon aioli, and slivered almonds over avocado, red tomatoes and romaine lettuce. I also ordered a soda and chips which set me back about $10 which as you know is average in DC. Once I had my sandwich in hand I joined my coworker and made camp under a tree during the warm summer afternoon to enjoy our meals.</span><span style=" "><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span style=" ">My initial thoughts were of how large the sandwich was and whether I could actually finish it. Leaving this thought behind I began to dig in. My first couple of bites were met with sheer amazement at both the quality of the bread and the contents within it. The ficelle felt like it just came out of the oven; it was as soft as butter and full of flavor. The sandwich as a whole was superb, the ingredients blended well and made for an incredible meal. Both my coworker and I were surprised that I was able to finish it and in such quick time.</span><span style=" "><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tvKkZLdDMiQ/TrCpwxz8a6I/AAAAAAAAAnU/wo5HScWq5Fw/s1600/IMG_1422.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tvKkZLdDMiQ/TrCpwxz8a6I/AAAAAAAAAnU/wo5HScWq5Fw/s320/IMG_1422.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670218586329476002" /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">(Davis Ficelle)</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">Upon returning to work I bookmarked them as my next food truck post. I kept track of their daily location in hopes that they would return to a reasonably close area. My prayers were met when they stopped by my alma mater the very next week. As I walked to George Washington University my only hopes were that they could replicate the delight I felt during my first visit.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span style=" ">Once my turn came I approached the truck and placed my order. This time I decided to sample the Calder which is their take on a cold cut. The Calder consists of hard salami, mortadella cheese, and Danish ham which is adorned with romaine lettuce, roma tomatoes, pepper relish and Italian dressing. Once I received my sandwich I nestled myself under a tree, opened my book and had a quiet lunch. </span><span style=" "><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span style=" ">To my delight the same positive characteristics were present in this sandwich as well. The freshness of the bread and natural blend of the ingredients were on full display. The sandwich was also not drenched in dressing which was a huge positive for me because this error occurs more often than not.</span><span style=" "><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--dqBkVSMpS4/TrCpwfKYo2I/AAAAAAAAAnI/TvvBorFpCzc/s1600/IMG_1432.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;color:#000000;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--dqBkVSMpS4/TrCpwfKYo2I/AAAAAAAAAnI/TvvBorFpCzc/s320/IMG_1432.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670218581323326306" /></span></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">(Calder Ficelle)</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">Since then I have had the opportunity to visit two more times. During those ventures I ordered another Davis as well as the Gorky which consists of Danish ham layered with sliced mozzarella, tomato, kalamata olives, pesto sauce, basil and olive oil. I can gladly say that I enjoyed both and will continue to visit when I am in the mood for a fresh sandwich.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;">If like me you are a sandwich lover, especially on a baguette then I would highly recommend visiting this truck. Their ingredients are fresh, the bread is fantastic and their prices are on par with any food establishment. I have never had to wait too long in line and the service is prompt. For all these reasons please skip the abomination that is Subway and try this, it is a real sandwich. Did I mention how much I hate Subway? I will save that for another post entirely but please try this if you want a real sandwich.</span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17341542909812681742noreply@blogger.com0