Poor neglected blog. I'll humor you. Despite the fact that I'm probably the only one who ever checks in on you. So much for becoming the next great food reviewers.
I just got back from my annual trip up to Washington state to visit friends and family. This always results in new foods to love, therefore new sites to review, no?
Powder Keg Bar and Grill
12743 Old Hwy 99 SE
Tenino, WA 98589
Totally old school tavern here, y'all. My aunt and uncle (who don't drink) bring me here for Chicken and Jo's, which is apparently tavern speak for Fried Chicken and Potato Wedges. Freaking delicious. My uncle and I split a whole chicken, so we each have a breast, wing, drumstick, and thigh. I think this is my favorite fried chicken ever (Sorry Mom). The potatoes are always pipping hot, so if you don't have asbestos mouth like me, better give 'em a chance to cool off before biting in. They serve these guys with good old onion dip (you know, Lipton Onion Soup Mix and Sour Cream). Not a combination that I would have thought of, but one I appreciate for sure! I've never had anything else here, but my aunt really enjoyed her patty melt. They also have good old iceberg salads if you're in to that. I am if they come in tiny bowls (more so if they come with garbanzo and kidney beans - not the case here). Definitely one of my favorite destinations with Auntie and Uncie.
Anthony's at Point Defiance
5912 N Waterfront Dr
Tacoma, WA 98407
My first time coming there ever. My old friend and ex-coworker brought me here for lunch. Right on the waterfront, near the ferry so you can watch that if you like. We each had a cup of the white clam chowder - probably some of the best I've had. Very creamy and I remember thinking, "DAMN! That's some cream!" Very smooth and good consistency. Bread does not come with lunch (not sure if it comes with dinner), but it's not that pricey. Clam chowder HAS to have sourdough. I ordered the Salmon and Chips lunch. Salmon and Chips needs to happen more often. Some of the best fish and chips I've had. The fries are perfect too - thin and crispy. Had the burnt cream for dessert and it was delish. Friend had the fruit cobbler, which was piping hot and had a slab of ice cream (totally not a scoop), which was tasty as well. Will totally go back. Also, being at Point Defiance has it's benefits - you can take the 5 mile drive after your meal if you'd like your food to settle before heading off to somewhere else. Points for scenery.
Sidenote: Anthony's in SeaTac is NOT like Anthony's at Point Defiance. I got a cup of clam chowder while waiting for my flight and it was not much better than a can of Progresso. Probably not actually made there - probably reheated stuff made elsewhere. Edible, but not what I had in Tacoma.
Red Mill Burgers
312 N 67th St
Seattle, WA 98103
I think this is my new Seattle burger place. Does not take the place of Big Tom's in Olympia, but notice that I said *Seattle burger place*. Really tasty and they had a variety of veggie options for my veggie friend. Nice to know that I could take a veggie here and they wouldn't get stuck with fries and a Gardenburger. I think my favorite thing was that they made root beer milkshakes. I thought Armando was the only one who made those! Their fries were thin, crispy, and well seasoned. Onion rings were peppery and good. I'm in love with their pile of bacon on the grill. Had the Blue Cheese and Bacon Burger. FREAKING AWESOME!
Wingdome
7818 Greenwood Ave N
Seattle, WA 98103
Totally reminds me of Wing Stop, but much more frat friendly, which is apparently what my other Seattle friend thinks of when she thinks of Wingdome. I guess I'll just have to go for lunch and avoid the frat boys if they get too rowdy. That is, unless they are CUTE frat boys. :) I had some sort of Wingdome combo that consisted of 10 wings anyway you want them and a salad. Friend had the ribs and wings combo with 10 wings, riblets, fries, beans (that tasted more like chili) and something else that I'm forgetting. Shared an order of fried mozzarella (don't remember what they call it). Everything was good and we were please with our meals. Riblets leave something to be desired. Not as BBQ-ish as we were expecting. I had level 2 spiciness. Next time I'll go for 3. Friend had garlic wings, that promised "Garlic, garlic, and more garlic". I was expecting to see Watsonville on her plate, and it was totally the opposite. The flavor was nice, but it was more of a garlicy teriyaki sauce and they seriously could have added more garlic. Still tasty though. The server was a little scattered, but very nice. We ended up with an extra salad somehow and I still ate it. Tasty salad I might add.
Jade Garden
424 7th Ave S
Seattle, WA 98104
Oh, Jade Garden. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways... Some of the best dim sum I've had. Probably the best place to get it in Seattle. Fairly inexpensive. Only things to watch out for are parking and time of day you're going. We were there at 10:00 AM on a Saturday and we were seated pretty quickly, which is apparently pretty lucky for a Saturday. Parking is street only, which means meters, so watch your timing if the place is hoppin'. Don't be afraid to sit in what seems like the back - that's the first round of the carts coming through and the servers are actually pretty attentive. If you ask for something, they'll bring it quickly. All the food I've had here has been very tasty and fresh. Don't forget to drink plenty of Oolong tea to help the greasy food along though - you might end up like my friend who had an upset tummy if you don't. Don't pass up the custard buns - TO DIE FOR.
Marinepolis Sushi Land USA
8910 161st Ave. NE
Redmond, WA 98052
Loves me some conveyor belt sushi. Sushi snobs who cannot bow down to the cheap glory that is conveyor belt sushi had better stay away. This is no where near all the qualities that I hold so dear to Sushiya back home. It is what it is - cheap, quick, and easy sushi for a few bucks. You could do a snack here for $5 or a meal for $10. $20 was a painful challenge that I was once put up to. Pain being my overly full belly. All the rolls usually come in 3 bites so you're not committed to anything for long. Never had the miso or udon - have to try that sometime. Their asparagus roll are one of my favorites, as well as the crab salad, shrimp katsu (yes, I said shrimp katsu!), and salmon handroll. Totally affordable and totally one of my favorites. Don't go here to have conversation with your pals though - sitting at the conveyor belt doesn't lend itself well to that. I like this location much better that the first one my friends took me to as well. Don't see what you want coming around on the belt? Ask the sushi chef to fix it for you.
That's about it for now. There'll be more to review on my next trip up north.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Sushi Boat
Sushi Boat
3220 Dyer Street
Union City, CA 94587
To be fair, Nancy and I went here back in December and I just found my notes. We haven’t been back since, so that should say something. I believe we both agreed that we would go again, but not really go out of our way to go there, especially since it’s Union City and for that kind of effort, we might as well go to Sushiya in Oakland.
It’s a decent sushi place that is, like most other sushi places, open for lunch a set amount of hours and then open for dinner a set amount of hours. If you’re going at an odd time of day, you probably won’t end up with sushi. I believe they’re open for dinner at 5 or something to that effect. You can either sit at the bar and pick your sushi off the floating boats (much like the conveyer belt sushi places in the Seattle area that I enjoy so much) or you can sit down at a table and order exactly what you want. If you’re a visual eater, I suggest sitting at the bar since there aren’t any pictures in their menu. I like pictures.
We ordered the gyoza to start off with. It was good, but smaller than we’re used to, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. They were extra crispy and served at a good temperature, which is very important to us.
I ordered a wakame salad, which was also good. It had a citrusy taste to it, probably because of a lemon garnish. There wasn’t anything special to it either, but that’s good when it comes to seaweed salads. It really served its purpose.
The miso soup was good because it wasn’t too salty. Finally a place with not so salty miso! You would think that miso would be a pretty basic item, therefore totally predictable, right? I’ve had it at other places and not been able to finish it because of the salt factor. I’ve also had it at other places where they add more unusual things to it, like noodles or potatoes. It’s all fine, but sometimes I just want to good not salty miso soup. By the way, at Sushi Boat, it’s just tofu and seaweed in the soup.
The tea was weak. Drinkable, but weak. Oh, and hot. Very hot.
Nancy had the nigiri combo. The fish was cut thin and the rice pads were small. There wasn’t really anything special or stand out about them. Everything was apparently edible because I don’t remember any comments about sub-par nigiri. I think it was just really average and nigiri needs to be spectacular.
We ordered several rolls, some to share, but mostly indulging my gluttony. Now the problem is that I don’t remember what was in the rolls at this point, but I can sum up my notes. The Simba roll was good and had nice textures. The spicy crab for this roll was served on the side, which was good so you could take as much as you want. The Osaka roll wasn’t anything special, just tuna and spicy sauce. Actually it was forgettable (I have that in my notes!). The Philly roll wasn’t anything special either, although it was only 3 pieces. The 49ers roll was…bright. Very bright. That’s because of the lemon. I actually remember this one. It’s a California roll with lemon and ebi. It was good and fresh, but there was too much tobiko. Waaaayyy too much.
Come to think of it, everything that came with tobiko had too much of it. Someone was a little heavy handed with it. You might want to ask for less of it if you’re not that crazy about it (like me).
Next time we go, we’re going to try the sushi bar, which I suspect would be the better route to go.
3220 Dyer Street
Union City, CA 94587
To be fair, Nancy and I went here back in December and I just found my notes. We haven’t been back since, so that should say something. I believe we both agreed that we would go again, but not really go out of our way to go there, especially since it’s Union City and for that kind of effort, we might as well go to Sushiya in Oakland.
It’s a decent sushi place that is, like most other sushi places, open for lunch a set amount of hours and then open for dinner a set amount of hours. If you’re going at an odd time of day, you probably won’t end up with sushi. I believe they’re open for dinner at 5 or something to that effect. You can either sit at the bar and pick your sushi off the floating boats (much like the conveyer belt sushi places in the Seattle area that I enjoy so much) or you can sit down at a table and order exactly what you want. If you’re a visual eater, I suggest sitting at the bar since there aren’t any pictures in their menu. I like pictures.
We ordered the gyoza to start off with. It was good, but smaller than we’re used to, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. They were extra crispy and served at a good temperature, which is very important to us.
I ordered a wakame salad, which was also good. It had a citrusy taste to it, probably because of a lemon garnish. There wasn’t anything special to it either, but that’s good when it comes to seaweed salads. It really served its purpose.
The miso soup was good because it wasn’t too salty. Finally a place with not so salty miso! You would think that miso would be a pretty basic item, therefore totally predictable, right? I’ve had it at other places and not been able to finish it because of the salt factor. I’ve also had it at other places where they add more unusual things to it, like noodles or potatoes. It’s all fine, but sometimes I just want to good not salty miso soup. By the way, at Sushi Boat, it’s just tofu and seaweed in the soup.
The tea was weak. Drinkable, but weak. Oh, and hot. Very hot.
Nancy had the nigiri combo. The fish was cut thin and the rice pads were small. There wasn’t really anything special or stand out about them. Everything was apparently edible because I don’t remember any comments about sub-par nigiri. I think it was just really average and nigiri needs to be spectacular.
We ordered several rolls, some to share, but mostly indulging my gluttony. Now the problem is that I don’t remember what was in the rolls at this point, but I can sum up my notes. The Simba roll was good and had nice textures. The spicy crab for this roll was served on the side, which was good so you could take as much as you want. The Osaka roll wasn’t anything special, just tuna and spicy sauce. Actually it was forgettable (I have that in my notes!). The Philly roll wasn’t anything special either, although it was only 3 pieces. The 49ers roll was…bright. Very bright. That’s because of the lemon. I actually remember this one. It’s a California roll with lemon and ebi. It was good and fresh, but there was too much tobiko. Waaaayyy too much.
Come to think of it, everything that came with tobiko had too much of it. Someone was a little heavy handed with it. You might want to ask for less of it if you’re not that crazy about it (like me).
Next time we go, we’re going to try the sushi bar, which I suspect would be the better route to go.
Monday, March 3, 2008
San Francisco Quickie Food Tour
This is one of those reviews I wrote a while back, but never posted. I've just finished up (I can't believe I remember something about every place that we went to!) and now I'm finally posting something! YAY!
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I had a couple friends in town the week before Thanksgiving and of course that meant food-motivated trips to San Francisco. Here’s the run down for a delicious day through North Beach and the Wharf:
North Beach
Stella Pastry and Café
446 Columbus Street
San Francisco
www.stellapastry.com
Sacripintina to die for + Cannoli to kill for + A hottie to lust over = Oy!
We had to hit up Stella’s on our second day because they were out of cannolis the first time. The second trip was worth the drive alone. Absolutely the best cannoli I have ever had! I’m pretty sure that there’s a more pronounced cinnamon flavor in the crispy bit and that’s what makes it more me. Plus the creamy filling is so smooth...ugh…must get some STAT! Smoothest I’ve had (I hate gritty filling, therefore I remember gritty filling). Selena ordered the Sacripintina (try saying that 3 times fast) because she heard that this was THE place to get it. I agree, despite having only had it here this one time. Didn’t get anything else, but I’m sure to go back again. Oh, and the Italian guy who “no speaka good English”… HOTT! Only problem is that the place is sooooooo small so there weren’t any tables to oogle the Italian guy from. Had to get everything to go.
Caffe Greco
423 Columbus Street
San Francisco
www.caffegreco.com
Super friendly people run this place. This is where Selena I went on the first trip when Stella’s was out of cannoli. We ended up sharing one, as well as 3 flavors of gelato. I had an almond Italian soda (one of my favorite treats) and Selena had a cappuccino. The whole experience of this place was awesome. It’s much bigger than Stella’s, so if you’re a bigger group or you actually want a seat, this place is good. The cannoli are great – not as good as Stella’s, but they give them a run for their money. I really really liked their gelato; much more than the actual gelato shop down the street.
Gelateria Naia
520 Columbus Ave
San Francisco
www.gelaterianaia.com
This is the gelato place down the street. It was good and it’s the same company that has a shop on Shattuck in Berkeley that I always wanted to go to in between classes. They also have one in the new Oakland Whole Foods. Their gelato is displayed with some sort of corresponding flavor item in it. Very cute! I like their gelato too, but there was just something about it that wasn’t as good as Caffe Greco. Maybe it was because I was really in the mood for one of the flavors from there and it wasn’t at this place. Maybe it was because the façade of the building was undergoing some work and there was scaffolding everywhere. I dunno. I’ll have to give it another go. It was very nice to grab some gelato and eat it at the park while watching dogs play.
Fisherman’s Wharf and Area
Boudin Bakery
Fisherman’s Wharf
San Francisco
www.boudinbakery.com
Okay, so we didn’t stop to eat here, but I do recommend their clam chowder in a bread bowl over anyone elses! We picked up some bread here – I got the garlic sourdough loaf. SO ADDICTIVE!! The epitome of “once you start you can’t stop”. I need to go back and pick up some more. Or order online and it will show up at my door. How awesome is that?!
Capurro’s
498 Jefferson St
(between Hyde St & Leavenworth St)
www.capurros.com
We went here for dinner one night and honestly I can’t remember much about it. I know we ordered a lot of food so that we could share. I think I remember being disappointed about something – maybe it was the prawn pizza? I don’t know. The live jazz band was really good. There’s a bar, but we didn’t drink anything. They were prompt with refilling my water glass. It’s just the food isn’t terribly memorable. Maybe I had fish and chips? I dunno. I think mine was good. Selena had some sort of salad and Christie got the funky pizza that she didn’t end up liking. They were shooting something that night and half the time I was blinded by the spotlights. Not the best place to grab something on the wharf, but definitely not the worst. I’d go again if others were going and they weren’t filming anything.
Buena Vista Cafe
2765 Hyde Street
(between Beach and North Point)
www.thebuenavista.com
So another place we didn’t eat at, but this is THE place to get an Irish coffee. Seriously. If I could handle it and afford it, I would have 3 – one right after the other. They’re kind of pricey, but if you like Irish coffee, you have to try it at least once. The food looked really good too and maybe I would have liked this place more than Capurro’s. I saw a lot of breakfasty stuff going on that night, but it also looks like they have other typical bar/diner food. Have to save up some moolah and go back.
That's it for now! I really do have more reviews lined up, but I'm not going to blow my wad all at once. Check back soon for Sushi Boat and Hayward Area lunch places.
==========
I had a couple friends in town the week before Thanksgiving and of course that meant food-motivated trips to San Francisco. Here’s the run down for a delicious day through North Beach and the Wharf:
North Beach
Stella Pastry and Café
446 Columbus Street
San Francisco
www.stellapastry.com
Sacripintina to die for + Cannoli to kill for + A hottie to lust over = Oy!
We had to hit up Stella’s on our second day because they were out of cannolis the first time. The second trip was worth the drive alone. Absolutely the best cannoli I have ever had! I’m pretty sure that there’s a more pronounced cinnamon flavor in the crispy bit and that’s what makes it more me. Plus the creamy filling is so smooth...ugh…must get some STAT! Smoothest I’ve had (I hate gritty filling, therefore I remember gritty filling). Selena ordered the Sacripintina (try saying that 3 times fast) because she heard that this was THE place to get it. I agree, despite having only had it here this one time. Didn’t get anything else, but I’m sure to go back again. Oh, and the Italian guy who “no speaka good English”… HOTT! Only problem is that the place is sooooooo small so there weren’t any tables to oogle the Italian guy from. Had to get everything to go.
Caffe Greco
423 Columbus Street
San Francisco
www.caffegreco.com
Super friendly people run this place. This is where Selena I went on the first trip when Stella’s was out of cannoli. We ended up sharing one, as well as 3 flavors of gelato. I had an almond Italian soda (one of my favorite treats) and Selena had a cappuccino. The whole experience of this place was awesome. It’s much bigger than Stella’s, so if you’re a bigger group or you actually want a seat, this place is good. The cannoli are great – not as good as Stella’s, but they give them a run for their money. I really really liked their gelato; much more than the actual gelato shop down the street.
Gelateria Naia
520 Columbus Ave
San Francisco
www.gelaterianaia.com
This is the gelato place down the street. It was good and it’s the same company that has a shop on Shattuck in Berkeley that I always wanted to go to in between classes. They also have one in the new Oakland Whole Foods. Their gelato is displayed with some sort of corresponding flavor item in it. Very cute! I like their gelato too, but there was just something about it that wasn’t as good as Caffe Greco. Maybe it was because I was really in the mood for one of the flavors from there and it wasn’t at this place. Maybe it was because the façade of the building was undergoing some work and there was scaffolding everywhere. I dunno. I’ll have to give it another go. It was very nice to grab some gelato and eat it at the park while watching dogs play.
Fisherman’s Wharf and Area
Boudin Bakery
Fisherman’s Wharf
San Francisco
www.boudinbakery.com
Okay, so we didn’t stop to eat here, but I do recommend their clam chowder in a bread bowl over anyone elses! We picked up some bread here – I got the garlic sourdough loaf. SO ADDICTIVE!! The epitome of “once you start you can’t stop”. I need to go back and pick up some more. Or order online and it will show up at my door. How awesome is that?!
Capurro’s
498 Jefferson St
(between Hyde St & Leavenworth St)
www.capurros.com
We went here for dinner one night and honestly I can’t remember much about it. I know we ordered a lot of food so that we could share. I think I remember being disappointed about something – maybe it was the prawn pizza? I don’t know. The live jazz band was really good. There’s a bar, but we didn’t drink anything. They were prompt with refilling my water glass. It’s just the food isn’t terribly memorable. Maybe I had fish and chips? I dunno. I think mine was good. Selena had some sort of salad and Christie got the funky pizza that she didn’t end up liking. They were shooting something that night and half the time I was blinded by the spotlights. Not the best place to grab something on the wharf, but definitely not the worst. I’d go again if others were going and they weren’t filming anything.
Buena Vista Cafe
2765 Hyde Street
(between Beach and North Point)
www.thebuenavista.com
So another place we didn’t eat at, but this is THE place to get an Irish coffee. Seriously. If I could handle it and afford it, I would have 3 – one right after the other. They’re kind of pricey, but if you like Irish coffee, you have to try it at least once. The food looked really good too and maybe I would have liked this place more than Capurro’s. I saw a lot of breakfasty stuff going on that night, but it also looks like they have other typical bar/diner food. Have to save up some moolah and go back.
That's it for now! I really do have more reviews lined up, but I'm not going to blow my wad all at once. Check back soon for Sushi Boat and Hayward Area lunch places.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Poor Neglected Blog
This is pretty sad, isn't it?
2 or 3 months without a post, let alone a review.
I have reviews written at home, I swear! I just need to post 'em. Sit tight, they'll come rapid fire right quick.
2 or 3 months without a post, let alone a review.
I have reviews written at home, I swear! I just need to post 'em. Sit tight, they'll come rapid fire right quick.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Winter = Carbs?
Oh, and is it just me or is everyone else also filling up on carbs now that it's cold and wintery? (Thank you, California, for waiting until December to show any semblance of the season.)
I've been trying to have a small breakfast each morning over the past few months and, while most times I still feel a little hungry afterwards, it's often a bowl or two of cereal or oatmeal and maybe a piece of toast. All carbs! And why do I still feel hungry after two bowls of cereal?! Maybe I should be eating more, but I kinda prefer a smaller breakfast so I don't feel too sleepy by the time I actually get to work (a little less than an hour's commute).
Anyway, sorry for the personal rant. Was just thinking about that while having part II of breakfast: toasted sesame bagel with sun-dried tomato cream cheese spread from A2 Cafe here in SF.
I've been trying to have a small breakfast each morning over the past few months and, while most times I still feel a little hungry afterwards, it's often a bowl or two of cereal or oatmeal and maybe a piece of toast. All carbs! And why do I still feel hungry after two bowls of cereal?! Maybe I should be eating more, but I kinda prefer a smaller breakfast so I don't feel too sleepy by the time I actually get to work (a little less than an hour's commute).
Anyway, sorry for the personal rant. Was just thinking about that while having part II of breakfast: toasted sesame bagel with sun-dried tomato cream cheese spread from A2 Cafe here in SF.
Woe is this blog.
I swear, Mo and I really are going out and eating at places. It might not be together, and it might not be good, but we swear we're not starving ourselves. There is no truth in any rumors that claim we have yet to regain the energy to rant on about the kind of batter fish should be fried in.
For the record, I personally don't care much for the beer-battered sort. Well, if it's boys we're talking about, that's another thing.
Anyway, it's Holiday time, which means lots of eating, feeling bloated, and then eating more. I can do anything but guarantee that we'll take a moment in our digestion to write a bit about what we're digesting.
To say the least, "stay tuned."
For the record, I personally don't care much for the beer-battered sort. Well, if it's boys we're talking about, that's another thing.
Anyway, it's Holiday time, which means lots of eating, feeling bloated, and then eating more. I can do anything but guarantee that we'll take a moment in our digestion to write a bit about what we're digesting.
To say the least, "stay tuned."
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Wingstravaganza!
Wings wings wings! Oh delicious wings!
Please pardon the lag in posting about restaurants, but I know that I have had a one-track wing mind lately. I felt like I needed to do some extensive research (taste-search?) before posting my results. I’ve filtered out the no-need-to-mention-ables down to the following results:
Wing Stop
Union City and San Leandro locations
www.wingstop.com
Oh so delish, worth any waiting, AND endorsed by Troy Aikman. Not that endorsements have anything to do with where I’ll eat, especially Troy Aikman’s, but he might have some sway with others. I can see why he would say that these are the “best wings I’ve had in my life,” or so the web site claims. I’ve developed a soft spot and a constant craving for the tasty beauties and have even found excuses to pick up lunch from there (I need to run by Target quick for some display stuff!) So far I have sampled the following: mild, original hot, hickory smoked BBQ, garlic parmesan, and teriyaki. I really really really like mild, original, and garlic parmesan (only in moderation however – never more than 5 or I start feeling gross). BBQ had a weird flavor when I tried it - kind of a spicy smoky, but not in the good chipotle spicy smoky way. Teriyaki was a glorified BBQ sauce – totally not teriyaki AT ALL. Someday I will muster up the courage to try the likes of Atomic and Cajun. The fries are totally delicious and seasoned perfectly to boot (do they use a touch of sugar?!). The 10 wing meal deal is totally the right size too.
Hooters
Fremont location only
www.hooters.com
Never mind the short orange shorts or your waitress introducing herself as “your hooters girl tonight.” Hooters really does have some delicious wings and I really do go there just for the food. Yes, it’s totally targeting straight men with there gazillion flat panel TVs and hula hoop swaying ladies, but their food stands up and outshines their testosterone-tempting-ways. I’ve only had my wings in the medium sauce, but I have both breaded and “naked”. (Yes, they put naked in quotes on their menu. And right next to some busty blonde I might add.) I prefer naked as the breading tends to soak up a lot of the oil (the girls will almost always recommend breaded in my opinion). Both mild and medium are butter based sauces, so never ask for it on the side or you might end up with some congealed catastrophe. It is, however, very good on the piping hot wings so you kind of forget that you’re pretty much eating spicy orangey butter. From there, the sauces get much spicier. My last dining companion got some samurai sauce on the side for his chicken strips and it was quite tasty. Not as spicy as I had imagined, but I might change my tune if I get 10 wings slathered in the stuff. In regards to other things on the menu, they have decent sangria by the pitcher and a fully loaded bar (I had a blonde bombshell last time – YUM!). Oh and their curly fries are great!
Le Soleil
1515 E. 14th Street (next to Luke’s Grill)
San Leandro
Their wings are only considered an appetizer, but OH MY GOD are they a delectable one! They are dusted in curry powder (the yellow kind, folks) and then fried to a perfectly crispy crunch, but always juicy on the inside. I simply cannot pass these suckers up, unless my dining companion of the moment would really like something “healthier” instead. The curry powder adds that extra something and it’s just the right amount. Even people who aren’t normally that keen on curry have liked these. I have to post a full review of this place soon!
Please pardon the lag in posting about restaurants, but I know that I have had a one-track wing mind lately. I felt like I needed to do some extensive research (taste-search?) before posting my results. I’ve filtered out the no-need-to-mention-ables down to the following results:
Wing Stop
Union City and San Leandro locations
www.wingstop.com
Oh so delish, worth any waiting, AND endorsed by Troy Aikman. Not that endorsements have anything to do with where I’ll eat, especially Troy Aikman’s, but he might have some sway with others. I can see why he would say that these are the “best wings I’ve had in my life,” or so the web site claims. I’ve developed a soft spot and a constant craving for the tasty beauties and have even found excuses to pick up lunch from there (I need to run by Target quick for some display stuff!) So far I have sampled the following: mild, original hot, hickory smoked BBQ, garlic parmesan, and teriyaki. I really really really like mild, original, and garlic parmesan (only in moderation however – never more than 5 or I start feeling gross). BBQ had a weird flavor when I tried it - kind of a spicy smoky, but not in the good chipotle spicy smoky way. Teriyaki was a glorified BBQ sauce – totally not teriyaki AT ALL. Someday I will muster up the courage to try the likes of Atomic and Cajun. The fries are totally delicious and seasoned perfectly to boot (do they use a touch of sugar?!). The 10 wing meal deal is totally the right size too.
Hooters
Fremont location only
www.hooters.com
Never mind the short orange shorts or your waitress introducing herself as “your hooters girl tonight.” Hooters really does have some delicious wings and I really do go there just for the food. Yes, it’s totally targeting straight men with there gazillion flat panel TVs and hula hoop swaying ladies, but their food stands up and outshines their testosterone-tempting-ways. I’ve only had my wings in the medium sauce, but I have both breaded and “naked”. (Yes, they put naked in quotes on their menu. And right next to some busty blonde I might add.) I prefer naked as the breading tends to soak up a lot of the oil (the girls will almost always recommend breaded in my opinion). Both mild and medium are butter based sauces, so never ask for it on the side or you might end up with some congealed catastrophe. It is, however, very good on the piping hot wings so you kind of forget that you’re pretty much eating spicy orangey butter. From there, the sauces get much spicier. My last dining companion got some samurai sauce on the side for his chicken strips and it was quite tasty. Not as spicy as I had imagined, but I might change my tune if I get 10 wings slathered in the stuff. In regards to other things on the menu, they have decent sangria by the pitcher and a fully loaded bar (I had a blonde bombshell last time – YUM!). Oh and their curly fries are great!
Le Soleil
1515 E. 14th Street (next to Luke’s Grill)
San Leandro
Their wings are only considered an appetizer, but OH MY GOD are they a delectable one! They are dusted in curry powder (the yellow kind, folks) and then fried to a perfectly crispy crunch, but always juicy on the inside. I simply cannot pass these suckers up, unless my dining companion of the moment would really like something “healthier” instead. The curry powder adds that extra something and it’s just the right amount. Even people who aren’t normally that keen on curry have liked these. I have to post a full review of this place soon!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
How to Choose?
Looks like Archie McPhee had us in mind when they came up with this one:
http://www.mcphee.com/items/11733.html
Wouldn't it be nice if they had an online version, too? Or one we could download into our cell phones?
http://www.mcphee.com/items/11733.html
Wouldn't it be nice if they had an online version, too? Or one we could download into our cell phones?
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Tsuru Sushi (San Leandro)
1427 E. 14th Street
San Leandro
http://tsurusushi.com/index.html
Quick: Much better for local sushi in comparison to Sushi Musashi. I might only go back to Musashi for korokke after going here. Tsuru also seemed to be more busy than Musashi, which I'm taking as a good sign.
Good: Everything really. Food was good and people are nice. Price is right.
Bad: I had to search for a gripe. I don't like the annoying bell on the right door and it took a while for them to refill our tea. Not deal breakers at all. Oh, they don't elaborate too much on what's in the rolls, but all you have to do is ask.
Extended: Okay, so in search of an answer for dinner during this heat spell, Nancy and I went on an unintentional quest for sushi. Our favorite (Sushiya) was closed (SOB!), as was our standby (Ichiro). We ended up back in San Leandro (stupid big loop) and Nancy suggested Tsuru. This was her first sushi place, but somehow I never made it here before.
As part of our new mission to finding good chicken wings locally, we had to have theirs. The presentation was very nice - I like how they get fancy with the lemon garnish. The wings were rather hot and very tasty - hint of lemon served with a "special sauce." I think the sauce was just soy sauce with a little lemon in it, but I couldn't really tell. There are only 4 wings, though, since this is an appetizer. Good for when you don't want to overdo it, but bad for when you really want some chicken wings. I could eat a bucket of these, but that would get a little pricey.
The salad and miso soup were also good. They use my favorite kind of dressing (that mayo ginger stuff) and it's thick so that counteracts any watery bits. The miso soup was simple and not too salty. It was served at the perfect temperature for immediate consumption.
Now for the main course. We both got combination dinners, which make it easy to play it safe and get a variety of things as well. I got tekka maki, California rolls, and shiu mai. Nancy also ordered tekka maki, but she got nigiri (3 pieces) and gyoza. Then we shared negihama rolls (hamachi with green onion).
The rolls were good and firm, which makes them easy to eat. I really don't like it when you pick up a roll and it starts to fall apart - something about sushi craftsmanship or something. The California rolls were dry, but a good dry. Some places mix the crab with mayo, which isn't bad but sometimes it's too much. The tekka was fresh. There was a touch too much hamachi in the negihama rolls, but totally forgivable. The balance of flavors was still good, which is very important with the delicate hamachi and strong onion flavor. Nancy said her nigiri was good - it was sliced thin and she could definitely taste the wasabi underneath. The shiu mai was fried, which is different since they're usually steamed, but they were still good. I think there was some water chestnut in the mix because there was a little crunch, which was nice. The gyoza were good, but there wasn't anything extra special or distinctive about them. They are very similar to Sushiya's.
The combination dinner is a good portion of food as long as you don't order too many fried items. A good balance is 2 sushi-like items with 1 fried item. I think you get rice if you don't order sushi items, which might make it feel like too much food. Tsuru also serves donburi and udon, as well as your safe standards (tempura and teriyaki). Really, it's hard to go out on on a limb at this sushi place, since the sushi menu is a little limited, but it's nice that the menu is a little more focused. It makes it easier to make a decision.
Overall, I really enjoyed my Tsuru experience. I think this place will be my new local standby, rather than my usual settling for Musashi. I would still take Sushiya over Tsuru, but Tsuru comes in a close second.
San Leandro
http://tsurusushi.com/index.html
Quick: Much better for local sushi in comparison to Sushi Musashi. I might only go back to Musashi for korokke after going here. Tsuru also seemed to be more busy than Musashi, which I'm taking as a good sign.
Good: Everything really. Food was good and people are nice. Price is right.
Bad: I had to search for a gripe. I don't like the annoying bell on the right door and it took a while for them to refill our tea. Not deal breakers at all. Oh, they don't elaborate too much on what's in the rolls, but all you have to do is ask.
Extended: Okay, so in search of an answer for dinner during this heat spell, Nancy and I went on an unintentional quest for sushi. Our favorite (Sushiya) was closed (SOB!), as was our standby (Ichiro). We ended up back in San Leandro (stupid big loop) and Nancy suggested Tsuru. This was her first sushi place, but somehow I never made it here before.
As part of our new mission to finding good chicken wings locally, we had to have theirs. The presentation was very nice - I like how they get fancy with the lemon garnish. The wings were rather hot and very tasty - hint of lemon served with a "special sauce." I think the sauce was just soy sauce with a little lemon in it, but I couldn't really tell. There are only 4 wings, though, since this is an appetizer. Good for when you don't want to overdo it, but bad for when you really want some chicken wings. I could eat a bucket of these, but that would get a little pricey.
The salad and miso soup were also good. They use my favorite kind of dressing (that mayo ginger stuff) and it's thick so that counteracts any watery bits. The miso soup was simple and not too salty. It was served at the perfect temperature for immediate consumption.
Now for the main course. We both got combination dinners, which make it easy to play it safe and get a variety of things as well. I got tekka maki, California rolls, and shiu mai. Nancy also ordered tekka maki, but she got nigiri (3 pieces) and gyoza. Then we shared negihama rolls (hamachi with green onion).
The rolls were good and firm, which makes them easy to eat. I really don't like it when you pick up a roll and it starts to fall apart - something about sushi craftsmanship or something. The California rolls were dry, but a good dry. Some places mix the crab with mayo, which isn't bad but sometimes it's too much. The tekka was fresh. There was a touch too much hamachi in the negihama rolls, but totally forgivable. The balance of flavors was still good, which is very important with the delicate hamachi and strong onion flavor. Nancy said her nigiri was good - it was sliced thin and she could definitely taste the wasabi underneath. The shiu mai was fried, which is different since they're usually steamed, but they were still good. I think there was some water chestnut in the mix because there was a little crunch, which was nice. The gyoza were good, but there wasn't anything extra special or distinctive about them. They are very similar to Sushiya's.
The combination dinner is a good portion of food as long as you don't order too many fried items. A good balance is 2 sushi-like items with 1 fried item. I think you get rice if you don't order sushi items, which might make it feel like too much food. Tsuru also serves donburi and udon, as well as your safe standards (tempura and teriyaki). Really, it's hard to go out on on a limb at this sushi place, since the sushi menu is a little limited, but it's nice that the menu is a little more focused. It makes it easier to make a decision.
Overall, I really enjoyed my Tsuru experience. I think this place will be my new local standby, rather than my usual settling for Musashi. I would still take Sushiya over Tsuru, but Tsuru comes in a close second.
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
A Thing for Wings
An anonymous commenter has asked about our recommendations for wings. A wonderful suggestion *commence drooling*.
Mo and I have a definite soft spot for Asian-style chicken wings - the sort with little or no batter/breading. Just dropped right into the delicious oil, so all your mouth tastes is deep-fried chicken skin and extremely hot (watch yo' tongue!) chicken meat. Fantastic stuff.
I have a theory that since there is so little batter, one feels a little less guilty about eating it. I mean, I know I feel better after eating some of my parents' fried chicken versus a KFC drumstick. Not that I don't get a craving for KFC from time to time, but you really can't go wrong with something that goes so well with sweet 'n' sour sauce.
Mo and I will continue to discuss our thoughts on wings and where to go to get some good ones. Perhaps we will start a local search for the best wings. I used to do this with turkey dinners, so it'll be good to pick up the routine again.
I'm not going to leave the veggies out of this one: Golden Era Vegetarian (http://www.goldeneravegetarian.com/) has amazing chicken drummettes. Pick 'em up if you're in San Francisco. Golden Era also has a sister city in downtown Oakland - Golden Lotus - but I've yet to try their version. Maybe we'll make that one of our future Wing Stops (har har).
We'll keep you posted.
Mo and I have a definite soft spot for Asian-style chicken wings - the sort with little or no batter/breading. Just dropped right into the delicious oil, so all your mouth tastes is deep-fried chicken skin and extremely hot (watch yo' tongue!) chicken meat. Fantastic stuff.
I have a theory that since there is so little batter, one feels a little less guilty about eating it. I mean, I know I feel better after eating some of my parents' fried chicken versus a KFC drumstick. Not that I don't get a craving for KFC from time to time, but you really can't go wrong with something that goes so well with sweet 'n' sour sauce.
Mo and I will continue to discuss our thoughts on wings and where to go to get some good ones. Perhaps we will start a local search for the best wings. I used to do this with turkey dinners, so it'll be good to pick up the routine again.
I'm not going to leave the veggies out of this one: Golden Era Vegetarian (http://www.goldeneravegetarian.com/) has amazing chicken drummettes. Pick 'em up if you're in San Francisco. Golden Era also has a sister city in downtown Oakland - Golden Lotus - but I've yet to try their version. Maybe we'll make that one of our future Wing Stops (har har).
We'll keep you posted.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Sushi Musashi (San Leandro)
1275 Washington Ave
(between E. 14th St & Callan Ave)
San Leandro
The quick and dirty: This sushi restaurant is good for a fix or take out. There are better places where the fish is fresher, but the desperate and hungry will approve. Good for sushi rookies.
The good: Cooked entres are good. Prices are affordable. Location is convenient. Good California rolls and fantastic korokke. Everything is available for take-out. Good salad dressing, but watery salad.
The bad: Service is iffy. Fish isn’t as fresh as other places. Spicy tuna is too spicy. Stingy with curry sauce. Oh, and I've had ants on my table before.
The expanded version: Both Nancy and I have eaten here a couple of times. My first experience with this place was early in my sushi eating experience, and I was introduced by my surrogate Japanese grandfather (aka my co-worker). I used to like Musashi more than I do now, but I’ve also developed my sushi palette. I would say that this place is good for sushi beginners since their basic rolls are okay, but their nigiri needs help.
I have also eaten lunch here a few times with a former colleague and we found their bento boxes affordable and delicious. Because of this, I’m going to say that their cooked entres are better than their sushi. I like their gyoza and their chicken katsu curry is nice. This is place also has the best korokke we’ve found. So far.
On this last visit, Nancy mentioned that the fish at Sushiya (Oakland) is better and fresher. She generally gets a nigiri combo plate of some sort, so if you’re more interested in nigiri style, skip this place. I’m more into maki and find it acceptable. Their spicy tuna is much spicer than I’ve had anywhere else. Almost painfully spicy. The California rolls here are good – not too wet or too dry. So far, I’ve like most maki rolls I’ve had, but they haven’t blown my socks off. Their salad is a little watery, but the dressing is good. It’s that creamy ginger type dressing that I get so excited about. I haven’t had the miso soup for a long time, but it’s pretty damn salty if I remember correctly.
My biggest gripe is the service. It’s not bad, but it’s not great. It’s not consistent either. It’s either too much attention or not enough. And this time, our waitress jumped the gun on taking stuff away. She didn’t ask if we were done with things first, which is a major no-no in my book. How do you know that I’m done with my half eaten salad, lady?
I’m sure Nancy and I will eat here again because it’s so convenient and we get cravings for their korokke. Sushi Musashi isn’t fantastic, but it isn’t bad either. There is definitely room for improvement at this establishment, but sushi rookies won’t know better and sushi cravers should overlook it if other options are available.
Kind of related, but not super directly: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sushi
(between E. 14th St & Callan Ave)
San Leandro
The quick and dirty: This sushi restaurant is good for a fix or take out. There are better places where the fish is fresher, but the desperate and hungry will approve. Good for sushi rookies.
The good: Cooked entres are good. Prices are affordable. Location is convenient. Good California rolls and fantastic korokke. Everything is available for take-out. Good salad dressing, but watery salad.
The bad: Service is iffy. Fish isn’t as fresh as other places. Spicy tuna is too spicy. Stingy with curry sauce. Oh, and I've had ants on my table before.
The expanded version: Both Nancy and I have eaten here a couple of times. My first experience with this place was early in my sushi eating experience, and I was introduced by my surrogate Japanese grandfather (aka my co-worker). I used to like Musashi more than I do now, but I’ve also developed my sushi palette. I would say that this place is good for sushi beginners since their basic rolls are okay, but their nigiri needs help.
I have also eaten lunch here a few times with a former colleague and we found their bento boxes affordable and delicious. Because of this, I’m going to say that their cooked entres are better than their sushi. I like their gyoza and their chicken katsu curry is nice. This is place also has the best korokke we’ve found. So far.
On this last visit, Nancy mentioned that the fish at Sushiya (Oakland) is better and fresher. She generally gets a nigiri combo plate of some sort, so if you’re more interested in nigiri style, skip this place. I’m more into maki and find it acceptable. Their spicy tuna is much spicer than I’ve had anywhere else. Almost painfully spicy. The California rolls here are good – not too wet or too dry. So far, I’ve like most maki rolls I’ve had, but they haven’t blown my socks off. Their salad is a little watery, but the dressing is good. It’s that creamy ginger type dressing that I get so excited about. I haven’t had the miso soup for a long time, but it’s pretty damn salty if I remember correctly.
My biggest gripe is the service. It’s not bad, but it’s not great. It’s not consistent either. It’s either too much attention or not enough. And this time, our waitress jumped the gun on taking stuff away. She didn’t ask if we were done with things first, which is a major no-no in my book. How do you know that I’m done with my half eaten salad, lady?
I’m sure Nancy and I will eat here again because it’s so convenient and we get cravings for their korokke. Sushi Musashi isn’t fantastic, but it isn’t bad either. There is definitely room for improvement at this establishment, but sushi rookies won’t know better and sushi cravers should overlook it if other options are available.
Kind of related, but not super directly: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sushi
Monday, May 28, 2007
Tomodachi Sushi Bistro (Hayward)
http://www.tomodachisushibistro.com/
24123 Hesperian Blvd
Hayward
Get to the Point: Didn't like it, but maybe I'm just missing something? Like one of their sake-ternative cocktails?
It's about time I give another review. Sushi is something I'm almost always happy to have (not so good if I happen to be feeling nauseous for any reason), but as my experiences with Japanese restaurants rise in number, it's easier to become critical of, well, everything.
I've been to Tomodachi a few times, always expecting to have something happen that will change my opinion of them. Yesterday evening was either my third or fourth time there, and I'm still not convinced that it's as good of a restaurant as all the patrons make it out to be. The place is always packed with customers - I don't usually make a note of who they are or what they look like - but these happy Asian folk seem to believe it's a great place. I feel I must be the only sour-looking Asian person there, unconvinced by the nice tatami mats and alternative sake cocktails.
Nigiri sushi is my standby, but Tomodachi only offers nigiri a la carte or in a combination with at least 6 pieces of other non-nigiri items. Too much food with the additional soup and seaweed salad. Also, a big strike for me: no ika (squid) nigiri, though there's plenty to be had if I want it mixed into an appetizer or served as a giant grilled squid steak. Which I certainly don't if all I want is one or two pieces of raw squid over some rice. Come on now.
The particular experience that comes with all sushi places is lacking here as well, for reasons that can't be well explained. Perhaps it is the sun-dried tomatoes in the rolls, the strangely creamy wasabi, or the lack of intimate eating quarters. I tend to feel the environment is conflicted about its intention to be exclusive or welcoming. We want you to be open to our sake drinks and not be scared off, Hayward folk, they seem to be saying at times. And then they retort with a little Never mind looking at the menu; we didn't bother explaining what any of those Japanese words mean.
I must admit this has come off as quite a bitter review. One of the diners in our party didn't get to enjoy the meal after being served some undercooked chicken teriyaki, and the returned item remained on our bill at the end of the night. I haven't written off Tomodachi just yet, but the experience has definitely sent me in the direction of the smaller Japanese restaurants in downtown Hayward.
24123 Hesperian Blvd
Hayward
Get to the Point: Didn't like it, but maybe I'm just missing something? Like one of their sake-ternative cocktails?
It's about time I give another review. Sushi is something I'm almost always happy to have (not so good if I happen to be feeling nauseous for any reason), but as my experiences with Japanese restaurants rise in number, it's easier to become critical of, well, everything.
I've been to Tomodachi a few times, always expecting to have something happen that will change my opinion of them. Yesterday evening was either my third or fourth time there, and I'm still not convinced that it's as good of a restaurant as all the patrons make it out to be. The place is always packed with customers - I don't usually make a note of who they are or what they look like - but these happy Asian folk seem to believe it's a great place. I feel I must be the only sour-looking Asian person there, unconvinced by the nice tatami mats and alternative sake cocktails.
Nigiri sushi is my standby, but Tomodachi only offers nigiri a la carte or in a combination with at least 6 pieces of other non-nigiri items. Too much food with the additional soup and seaweed salad. Also, a big strike for me: no ika (squid) nigiri, though there's plenty to be had if I want it mixed into an appetizer or served as a giant grilled squid steak. Which I certainly don't if all I want is one or two pieces of raw squid over some rice. Come on now.
The particular experience that comes with all sushi places is lacking here as well, for reasons that can't be well explained. Perhaps it is the sun-dried tomatoes in the rolls, the strangely creamy wasabi, or the lack of intimate eating quarters. I tend to feel the environment is conflicted about its intention to be exclusive or welcoming. We want you to be open to our sake drinks and not be scared off, Hayward folk, they seem to be saying at times. And then they retort with a little Never mind looking at the menu; we didn't bother explaining what any of those Japanese words mean.
I must admit this has come off as quite a bitter review. One of the diners in our party didn't get to enjoy the meal after being served some undercooked chicken teriyaki, and the returned item remained on our bill at the end of the night. I haven't written off Tomodachi just yet, but the experience has definitely sent me in the direction of the smaller Japanese restaurants in downtown Hayward.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Mimi's Cafe (Hayward)
http://www.mimiscafe.com/
24542 Hesperian Blvd
Hayward
I had been to Mimi's before, but only the one in Dublin. Although I've enjoyed eating there, I've never been really excited to go there. Maybe because there's an awesome Thai place in the same shopping complex, but that's another post.
And this is a new Mimi's in Southland...
Mimi's is billed as an upscale family restaurant and that it is. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We've yet to eat breakfast or an actual lunch there, but the dinners and appetizers are quite delish. The selection is a little limited, but what they offer is done pretty well. Not perfect, but damn near.
I had the meatloaf dinner the first night we went. I liked the tomato flavor and that it didn't have too much of a tomato crust (Nancy would disagree with me on this one). The mashed potatoes were fantastic and like homemade. The best part was the gravy, but I have a gravy bias. Everything is better with gravy. Nice brown gravy. And they gave me extra gravy. Sweeeeet brown gravy. But now I'm off topic.
On another occasion, we shared the fish and chips. The batter was more like a breading than a tempura-style coating. Very different and a little off putting, but still tasty (again, Nancy would disagree here). We suspect that it's the same breading that they use on the chicken fingers. The fries were tasty, but not memorable (I can't pick them out from the other fries I've had this week). The tartar sauce has a touch of horseradish, and I can't decide on if I like that or not. I'm guessing not.
The bar area is much bigger at this one, which is nice that they even have a bar that serves more than beer and/or wine. The drinks are average to pricey, so plan on paying at least $6 per drink (more if you're drinking Glenfiddich). So far, I have chosen to sit in the bar area more often than the dining area because service is quicker and the bartenders/servers have been very nice. Then again, here comes another bias because I think one of the guys is really cute and I went to elementary school with another. The only cons to sitting in the bar area are that the bus boys don't come around so much and the bartenders forget to give you flatware/napkins.
Overall, I really like this Mimi's and I would recommend it. Maybe not during a busy time, but definitely try it.
Big pluses: Good food, nice people, and desserts with whiskey sauce. OH! And some recipes are posted on the web site.
Shortcomings: Limited menu, microwaved chocolate, and early last call.
24542 Hesperian Blvd
Hayward
I had been to Mimi's before, but only the one in Dublin. Although I've enjoyed eating there, I've never been really excited to go there. Maybe because there's an awesome Thai place in the same shopping complex, but that's another post.
And this is a new Mimi's in Southland...
Mimi's is billed as an upscale family restaurant and that it is. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We've yet to eat breakfast or an actual lunch there, but the dinners and appetizers are quite delish. The selection is a little limited, but what they offer is done pretty well. Not perfect, but damn near.
I had the meatloaf dinner the first night we went. I liked the tomato flavor and that it didn't have too much of a tomato crust (Nancy would disagree with me on this one). The mashed potatoes were fantastic and like homemade. The best part was the gravy, but I have a gravy bias. Everything is better with gravy. Nice brown gravy. And they gave me extra gravy. Sweeeeet brown gravy. But now I'm off topic.
On another occasion, we shared the fish and chips. The batter was more like a breading than a tempura-style coating. Very different and a little off putting, but still tasty (again, Nancy would disagree here). We suspect that it's the same breading that they use on the chicken fingers. The fries were tasty, but not memorable (I can't pick them out from the other fries I've had this week). The tartar sauce has a touch of horseradish, and I can't decide on if I like that or not. I'm guessing not.
The bar area is much bigger at this one, which is nice that they even have a bar that serves more than beer and/or wine. The drinks are average to pricey, so plan on paying at least $6 per drink (more if you're drinking Glenfiddich). So far, I have chosen to sit in the bar area more often than the dining area because service is quicker and the bartenders/servers have been very nice. Then again, here comes another bias because I think one of the guys is really cute and I went to elementary school with another. The only cons to sitting in the bar area are that the bus boys don't come around so much and the bartenders forget to give you flatware/napkins.
Overall, I really like this Mimi's and I would recommend it. Maybe not during a busy time, but definitely try it.
Big pluses: Good food, nice people, and desserts with whiskey sauce. OH! And some recipes are posted on the web site.
Shortcomings: Limited menu, microwaved chocolate, and early last call.
Foodie Spotlight: Nancy
- Blogger Profile
Favorite foods: nigiri sushi, sandwiches, potatoes, turkey dinners
Dislikes: cilantro, avocado, hominy, too much spice, salad with too much dressing
Favorite restaurants: Sushiya (Oakland), Favorite Indian (Hayward)
Picky about: tomato sauce on meatloaf, brown gravy instead of white, breading-to-meat ratio
Preferred beverage: scotch / whisk(e)y on the rocks, rootbeer, non-herbal teas
Soft spot for: appetizers, fresh Krispy Kreme donuts, fried ice cream, stuffed things
Miscellaneous info: does not cook, loves "America's Test Kitchen" (though the past few seasons have been too polished), parents own and operate a Chinese restaurant, is glad that Joanne Weir is no longer associating herself with San Francisco
Favorite foods: nigiri sushi, sandwiches, potatoes, turkey dinners
Dislikes: cilantro, avocado, hominy, too much spice, salad with too much dressing
Favorite restaurants: Sushiya (Oakland), Favorite Indian (Hayward)
Picky about: tomato sauce on meatloaf, brown gravy instead of white, breading-to-meat ratio
Preferred beverage: scotch / whisk(e)y on the rocks, rootbeer, non-herbal teas
Soft spot for: appetizers, fresh Krispy Kreme donuts, fried ice cream, stuffed things
Miscellaneous info: does not cook, loves "America's Test Kitchen" (though the past few seasons have been too polished), parents own and operate a Chinese restaurant, is glad that Joanne Weir is no longer associating herself with San Francisco
Foodie Spotlight: Mo
- Blogger Profile
Favorite foods: cheese, sushi, cream-based sauces, chicken, pasta, cucumbers, gravy
Dislikes: microwaved/burnt chocolate, watery salads, iceberg lettuce, too much tomato sauce
Favorite restaurants: Favorite Indian (Hayward), Sushiya (Oakland), Le Soleil (San Leandro), Nick's (San Leandro), Lo Coco's (Oakland)
Picky about: The simple things, like: service, salads, clam chowder, pizza, dessert
Preferred beverage: water or tea
Soft spot for: "Greasy spoons"
Miscellaneous info: Cannot resist watching Alton Brown on Food Network. Owns too many cookbooks. Believes that ice cream can make almost anything better. Would rather make up a recipe than follow one. Would cry if ever became lactose intolerant.
Favorite foods: cheese, sushi, cream-based sauces, chicken, pasta, cucumbers, gravy
Dislikes: microwaved/burnt chocolate, watery salads, iceberg lettuce, too much tomato sauce
Favorite restaurants: Favorite Indian (Hayward), Sushiya (Oakland), Le Soleil (San Leandro), Nick's (San Leandro), Lo Coco's (Oakland)
Picky about: The simple things, like: service, salads, clam chowder, pizza, dessert
Preferred beverage: water or tea
Soft spot for: "Greasy spoons"
Miscellaneous info: Cannot resist watching Alton Brown on Food Network. Owns too many cookbooks. Believes that ice cream can make almost anything better. Would rather make up a recipe than follow one. Would cry if ever became lactose intolerant.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Printable Restaurant List
Here's a printable list of restaurants in the East Bay that are sorted by area. Good for reference. Not necessarily a checklist, but might help narrow options in a pinch.
restaurant_list.pdf
(Requires Adobe Acrobat)
restaurant_list.pdf
(Requires Adobe Acrobat)
A2 Café / Rustico's
http://www.a2cafe.com/
1111 8th St
San Fran
The ready-to-go pasta salads are often over-seasoned, but it's always a good amount of food for the price you pay. Usually quick service, though anything that needs to be heated or prepared (i.e. sandwich, large salad) might cause you to wait a bit longer than you think you should - a problem for those on a break between classes. As pricey as the sandwiches seem (they aren't very large, either), they're delicious, especially right when you get them - they're hot, toasted just right, and all the ingredients are perfect. My favorite of the bunch so far: Turkey Pesto (seeded roll w/pesto, smoked mozzarella, red pepper, sun-dried tomato, spinach).
And a lil' note on something I learned from a friend: the Coppa sandwich is NOT vegetarian. Here's why.
1111 8th St
San Fran
The ready-to-go pasta salads are often over-seasoned, but it's always a good amount of food for the price you pay. Usually quick service, though anything that needs to be heated or prepared (i.e. sandwich, large salad) might cause you to wait a bit longer than you think you should - a problem for those on a break between classes. As pricey as the sandwiches seem (they aren't very large, either), they're delicious, especially right when you get them - they're hot, toasted just right, and all the ingredients are perfect. My favorite of the bunch so far: Turkey Pesto (seeded roll w/pesto, smoked mozzarella, red pepper, sun-dried tomato, spinach).
And a lil' note on something I learned from a friend: the Coppa sandwich is NOT vegetarian. Here's why.
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