Archive for Restaurant Review
An Encounter With The Comfort Truck
Posted by: | CommentsOne of my absolute fave LA people, Rissa, called me the other night with the news that she was about the encounter the one and only Comfort Truck. See what happened when she met the one and only Chef Brian Hill on her quest for some comfort food.
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Thanks to Twitter, I have developed a mild fascination with gourmet food trucks in Los Angeles. On any given day, trucks can be found from the Valley to the South Bay selling their tasty wares – dim sum, Korean BBQ, Indian food, burgers, sushi. Even popular restaurants and food establishments like Sprinkles cupcakes, In-n-Out and Border Grill are jumping on this mobile bandwagon. I have tracked down the Grilled Cheese Truck, twice; and happened upon the Sweets Truck when I walked out of my office building for a break. My ‘must try’ list has four trucks: Frysmith (fries as a meal), Cool Haus (gourmet ice cream sandwiches), Buttermilk Truck (breakfast favorites) and the Comfort Truck (sliders, wings and wraps). Yesterday, I crossed off the Comfort Truck from my list.
Friday was a particularly taxing day at work. By late afternoon, I tweeted my sentiment: I sure could use some @ComfortTruck right about now. Within minutes, my tweet was re-tweeted with an invitation to find them over the weekend. I hoped for a location close to me in the Valley but knew I would drive almost anywhere in L.A. to give the truck a try. The event location and time revealed via Twitter, I made my plan to find the Comfort Truck.
Chef Brian’s Comfort Truck took to the road in March of this year with Brian Hill at the wheel. Hill is a former Top Chef contestant and current featured chef on Private Chefs of Beverly Hills.
Waiting to turn at the intersection of National and Exposition, I was greeted by the sight of that iconic red KFC building and a soon-to-be just as iconic red Comfort Truck. To my surprise, and utter delight, there was no line. I parked my car and called Lys – “I am at the Comfort Truck!” Before I could focus on the menu, I was greeted by a happy voice from within the truck “What’s up, girl?” It was Chef Brian! His smile was wide and warm even through the screen separating us. I told him how my need for the Comfort Truck on Friday lead me to seek it out on Saturday. Nikki, one of his co-workers, joined him at the window.
“Wait, that was on Twitter, right? What’s your name?”
“Rissa. Rissadee on Twitter.”
“Yeah! I’m glad you found us.” Brian slid open the screen and gave me a fist bump. Holla!
Unfamiliar with the menu and not sure what to order, I asked Chef Brian’s opinion. He hooked me up with BBQ chicken sliders, jerk beef sliders and an order of his infamous ‘crack’ tortilla chips with relish. Before I left, Chef Brian came out from the truck to give me a hug and said “Thank you!” Holla!
I called Lys to tell my Comfort Truck tale only to lose her in Laurel Canyon; but not before she could ask me to write a guest blog about my experience (that’s how I wound up here, in case you were wondering). The food smelled delicious, the bag was giving off heat, my mouth watering. I could not drive home fast enough. I pulled into my apartment parking space, grabbed a fistful of napkins from my glove compartment (a necessity for professional in-car eaters) and ripped open the bag. No shame in my game!
First stop: BBQ chicken sliders. I’ve said this before: the second bite is my favorite. The first one, you’re just trying it out – the temperature, the texture, checking to see if it’s a combination of flavors you can tolerate. But, the second bite? Ohh, that’s where it’s happening! The soft and unobtrusive roll, that tangy and somewhat familiar bbq sauce, the crispy and tender fried chicken topped with melted mozzarella all came together…mmm. Oh, sorry – I’m salivating.
Next stop: jerk beef sliders. Same soft and unobtrusive roll with a nicely done (inside and out!) beef patty, I got a double whammy on my second bite. That’s when the jerk seasoning hit me and, to my surprise, a bite of pineapple. Aloha! What a clever and tasty pair, which may not be so surprising to some. As a Hawaiian, I am a firm believer in keeping pineapple off of pizza and burgers. I shall now recant and amend my statement to include only pizza.
Third and, sadly, final stop: fried tortilla chips and relish. 1) Chef Brian’s relish of corn, white beans, cilantro and seasonings is a meal on its own. 2) ‘Crack’ chips are appropriately named. WOW! After one bite, I knew one bag of chips was not going to be enough for me. I kept breaking them into smaller and smaller pieces only to make them last longer. And once they were gone, don’t think it didn’t cross my mind to drive back over there. No shame in my game.
If you’re in LA, go find Chef Brian and get your Comfort Truck on. Holla!
*Fist bump*
You can find Rissa on Twitter or at Reese Rants and Raves.
One Of These Things Just Doesn’t Belong …
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"Crispy Caramel Chicken Salad"
Last week I went to lunch with some friends and we decided to check out Hamburger Mary’s. It’s a new spot that recently came to downtown Orlando and is definitely a fun spot. It’s perfect for this gal – I mean they even serve your check in a STILETTO!
SL had been coveting their “to die for” salmon salad and, well, who am I to argue. Plus – I do have a bone to pick with Downtown Orlando – lunch options are really limited. Whatever is really good tends to disappear. I mean, c’mon – Cafe Ritazza and Nature’s Table have gone downhill and if I’m going to spend $8+ for a sandwich, it better be good.
In between catching up with Mich and SL and checking out the latest dance vids on one of the many screens playing through Hamburger Mary’s, we decided to split an app. – Fried Mac ‘N Cheese. Delish! For my entree, I was brave, coming out of my safe shell and try something that had me intrigued – the Crispy Caramel Chicken Salad. I figured “Well, it’s probably sweet and savory” and thought that the caramel was an accent. Well either the chef had a craving for a caramel sundae or they seriously think this hot ass mess was definitely palatable.
From Hamburger Mary’s website:
CRISPY CARAMEL CHICKEN SALAD
Fresh chilled mixed greens topped with crispy fried caramel chicken, tomato, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, croutons with ranch dressing.
Let me be frank – there was no “CARAMEL CHICKEN“. It was caramel drowning every iota of this salad. It was just, for lack of a better term, horrid.
SL was so gracious when he tried it, commenting “Well, it’s not my favorite” and resumed attacking his salmon salad with gusto (more than likely to erase that swill of caramel swirled over the chicken like it was vanilla ice cream). I kept trying to find the good in it but I just couldn’t. I came to the conclusion that while they thought they were being innovative, quite frankly, the term “less is more” should apply here.
Hamburger Mary’s, I’m sorry but you get a “FAIL” when it comes to this idea. I think that the next time I come in, I’ll be sticking with something safe – like the salmon.
A Night At Amada…
Posted by: | CommentsOne of my favorite chefs is Jose Garces. I’ve heard rave reviews about his restaurants. His cookbook, Latin Evolution, is like art. And, to boot, the man spanked Bobby Flay HARD on Iron Chef America. So I knew that during my trip to Philly last month, I’d have to go to his restaurant, Amada. Amada is a Spanish tapas restaurant in Olde City, Philadelphia which was just a hop, skip and a jump from my hotel at Penn’s Landing.
I have to say, Amada lived up to their buzz – the restaurant was all that and then some. The ambiance was intimate and rustic. From the moment you enter through the flowing draperies at the front door, staff greets you like an old friend welcoming you to dinner. Now, while I love Italian cooking, I’m also fond of Spanish cooking. After all, one of my signature dishes is Arroz Con Pollo.
Now, let’s get to the fun stuff – the food. After much contemplation, the menu items selected were:
- Patatas Bravas (Spicy Potatoes), a dish of potatoes topped with this amazing paprika aioli which I will be attempting to recreate this weekend. It was smoky with a bit of heat that just made you close your eyes and relish the flavors;
- The Croquetas de Jamon (Ham Croquettes) were good, but I wanted more of the Patatas Bravas; and
- Costillas de Ternera is a Spanish flatbread topped with Beef Shortribs, Bacon, Parmesan and Horseradish. This is another dish I’m going to attempt to try for the next soiree because the flavors were a perfect mix. It was divine.
Of course I had to have some Merlot but Julie, the fab bartender, also suggested that I try their homemade sangria. If I had thought about it, I would have ordered that instead of the merlot. They have three sangrias – a white, a red and a seasonal. The seasonal selection was a spiced apple sangria which was insanely good. While Julie and I were talking, I mentioned the Foodbuzz New Years Eve 24, 24, 24 event that I was hosting and, with thanks to her, she gave me some wonderful suggestions which turned out perfect.
Sadly, I did not take any pictures of my visit there but I will be sure to take them on the next trip as this has hit my list of “Absolute Fave Restaurants” and I will be going back. However, the Ultimate Epicure reviewed the restaurant and took some AMAZING photos which you must see HERE.
Much thanks to everyone at Amada. It was a meal to remember…
A Night Out With Foodbuzz and Florida Foodies at Todd English’s bluezoo…
Posted by: | CommentsEveryone is “buzzin’” about it and let me tell you – it was an event to be remembered. Last Saturday, yours truly, along with a fabulous group of Florida Foodbuzz Featured Publishers had an evening out at Todd English’s bluezoo here in Orlando, Florida.
The event was amazing, to say the least. My buddy, SL, and I departed for all things Disney and something about the hotel just reminded me of Palm Beach. Calm, serene and decadent. The restaurant didn’t disappoint either. We met up with a host of fabulous people and, after a cocktail at the bar, we were ushered into the private dining room (Squueeee!) and treated to a 6 course menu prepared by their executive chef that was to die for. OK, VIP at the club, I have to say that I’m spoiled. VIP at a fabu restaurant – just lead the way. Thank you!
The staff at bluezoo left no need unattended. Their waiters were attentive, the wine was flowing and the conversation was fabulous. Attending this lovely evening were Jenn of The Leftover Queen, Judy of No Fear Entertaining, Ingar of Taste Memory, Chris of Pickles & Cake, Susan of Sticky, Gooey, Creamy, Chewy, Peter and Christey of Fotocuisine, Erin and Chris of The Olive Notes, Rachel of My Little Marshmellow, and Bryan of The Tattooed Gourmet. Also, joining the Florida crew was the uber fabulous Ryan of FoodBuzz and The Pink Spoon fame.
Now, you get this group together and fun is only the beginning.
I know you really want to hear about the food, though so, while these snaps were not professional (have you SEEN the photos on the other blogs – I so need to put back the stilettos and get a better camera), trust me when I say you are going to get a little hungry. The menu started off with:
My take: the bacon provided the perfect touch of smoke to something that was already near perfect.
The amuse was followed by:
My take: This was just stunning. I wish you could see it in person and, if you do get a chance to go to bluezoo, you MUST try. It’s a deconstructed shrimp cocktail that was just divine. You have to see some of the other posts to see the hilarity that ensued as everyone had their “shot”.
This was followed by:
SECOND COURSE
beet salad…candied walnuts, goat cheese fondue
My take: OK, I have to be honest. The salad was just fine but I am NOT a fan of beets. I don’t think I ever have been. It’s just me. That’s all.
This was followed by:
THIRD COURSE
spice route char…curried beluga lentils, zhataar carrot, yogurt spill
My take: LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE this dish. Did I tell you I loved this dish?? The char was perfectly cooked. The sauce had the right amount of spice and the carrots and lentils were flavorful. If I could pester the chef for the recipe, I would.
This was followed by:
FOURTH COURSE
sous vide amish chicken…parmesan polenta, picholine olive, deconstructed tomato sauce
My take: While the chicken was good, I was more of a fan of the polenta. (What can I say – I love polenta.) And you pair this with arugula, I’m sold. The deconstructed tomato sauce was also flavorful.
Finally, we were presented with:
FIFTH COURSE
warm chocolate cake with liquid ganache center……
maracaibo chocolate cream pudding, peanut ice cream
My take: Ummm… yes, it was BETTER than it looked. TRUST a gal. Thanks to this decadent treat, I am inspired to make the peanut butter ice cream.
Dinner was followed by coffee and cordials, more fabulous conversation and goodie bags courtesy of Ingar. Also, before Judy slaps me, I have to divulge a little secret. If you want a great after dinner coffee, add some Frangelico, Baileys and, I believe Amaretto, to the coffee and enjoy. If I wasn’t driving, I would have definitely had one or two. Now if only I can learn how to make a proper cup of coffee at home. :::sigh:::
Many thanks to all that came out. The camaraderie and conversation is only the beginning and I look forward to spending more time with these wonderful people. Also, I have to say a special thank you to Jenn, Judy and Ingar for putting this all together. Finally, we wouldn’t have had this fabulous opportunity if it wasn’t for Foodbuzz and Ryan. Thank you so much.
bluezoo rates high on my “must go to” spots here in Orlando and I know I will be going back often. I cannot recommend them enough. And, coming from a gal who goes OUT of her way to avoid all things Disney, you know it must be damn good. Tourists & I are non-mixy things, except when it comes to this spot.
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Check out everyone’s take on the evening:
- The Leftover Queen
- No Fear Entertaining
- Taste Memory
- Sticky, Gooey, Creamy, Chewy
- The Olive Notes
- The Tattooed Gourmet
- FotoCuisine
- My Little Marshmallow
(Another) Night At The Bourbon…
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Of course we started again with the Blackened Chicken Quesadillas with the cilantro sour cream and salsa fresca. For entrees, Meowmix was predictable with her favorite Parmesan & Cornmeal Encrusted Scallops while at the expert advice of our server, I opted for the Blackened Tilapia with Pecan Butter Sauce. Of course, it was futile to even TRY to resist the Espresso Martinis that Heather whipped up nor the Blueberi Stoli Lemonade that Anthony plied us with that evening. After dinner, you must check out the downstairs club as the DJ rocks, there’s live bands on Saturdays and, as a matter of course, the bartenders will always take care of you.
Now, I didn’t paparazzo much as I lost the pics in the Blackberry Crash heard ’round Philadelphia (and I’m still in mourning) but Meowmix was smart enough to snag a shot of not only her Scallops (check out that presentation) but also the Cornbread and the infamous Creole Butter.
Parmesan & Cornmeal Encrusted Scallops with Vegetable Orzo
For the record, the last time I went, I begged, whined and pleaded with our server, Mark, to get me the recipe from the chef for their Creole Butter. Believe me when I say it was TO. DIE. FOR. Mark took heed of my whining and told me 3 little ingredients. I came home and tried like mad to replicate it. It was close, but not quite. I hit frustration level because while my attempt was good, it just didn’t have that za-za-zuu. In stiletto speak, it’s like wanting Jimmy Choo and getting 9West. Nice but just not IT. You see my point? And y’all know I refuse to settle.
Well, this time I was determined that if I had to bribe a senator to get that recipe, I would. Thankfully, the powers that be at the Bourbon took pity on a gal and kindly relinquished the hold on this recipe. We’ll call it an early birthday present.
Many thanks to the crew at the Bourbon Blue for their fabulous service and always lookin’ out. If you are headed out the Philadelphia way, check them out at 2 Rector Street, Manayunk, PA 19127; (215) 508-3360; www.bourbonblue.com
Bourbon Blue’s Cornbread and Creole Butter
Restaurant Review: Bourbon Blue…
Posted by: | CommentsWhen I was up in Philadelphia on business a few weeks ago, I always take the time to try to find somewhere I can chill out and enjoy time with friends and great conversation. I’ve learned that with what I do, sometimes just hanging at a club or at someone’s house doesn’t always fit the bill. For me, a club often feels like work and just chillin‘ at someone’s house, while it’s nice, I want to get out and explore the city.
On the last night before I departed my favorite city, I needed to chill out after the hectic event we had just had the day before. So, after discussion with Meowmix, we decided that dinner at this hot spot called Bourbon Blue would be in order for the evening. Not only does it have a rockin’ bar atmosphere but the food was sublime. Manayunk has this vibe – where it’s city but not city – and you just instantly feel at home when you enter. It’s warm, inviting and the people there are genuinely nice.
Let me preface this with I’m always apprehensive when it comes to traveling and restaurants. Yes, I do use “Google” to my advantage and I just wasn’t finding much in the way of reviews of this restaurant albeit some various articles from its opening 5 years ago. Also, Cajun/New Orleans food in Philly? I mean, c’mon – I know Philly is eclectic but NOLA food in PA? As my friend SL would say “What do they know about Cajun Cuisine?” I was a bit wary. Around Florida we have some good Cajun restaurants but I wasn’t sure if the North could actually create that mood.
Let me say for the record: I was wrong.
Bourbon Blue hit it out of the box AND then some. I apologize as I didn’t take any pictures that night but I was so caught up in everything that whipping out my camera just didn’t seem right. Not to mention, the lovely blackberry froze on me again rendering pictures impossible. We were lucky to secure a late reservation on one of their busiest nights as they had a number of graduation parties. While there was a very brief wait to be seated, it was to be expected. We were a few minutes late, and, of course, we were there on the busiest night of the week.
First of all – YOU MUST try the espresso martinis. BB’s fabulous bartender Heather whipped up this libation that had me bugging her for the recipe. Has the Espresso Martini replaced my favorite Cable Car Martini, one might wonder. No, but it’s hit my second favorite cocktail status – knocking out my Egyptian martini that I’ve loved for so many years.
Our server, Mark, paid attention to the most minute detail – and for my friend Meowmix, after a server we had a few days prior, that meant a lot. When he saw her sombrero was running a bit low, he had another quickly whisked over. He knew that a sombrero was Kahlua and milk, NOT tequila. Vegas obviously didn’t get the memo a few years ago.
Now, let’s get onto what y’all want to know about – the food. First of all, the bread is this warm, fresh out of the oven, cornbread served with a Creole Butter that had me again pestering for the recipe (which I learned how to recreate when I returned to Orlando and no I am not sharing – their chef might shoot me!). For appetizers, we decided to start with the Blackened Chicken Quesadillas. Meowmix is notsomuch a fan of spicy food (which I’ve just started to love) and sometimes with a quesadilla it can be hit or miss. This was perfect. Savory yet subtle – the flavors melded perfectly with the cilantro sour cream and fresh salsa. For the entrée, per recommendation of Mark, we elected to try the Parmesan & Cornmeal Encrusted Scallops. They were perfectly seared on a bed of vegetable orzo. To end the meal: What else, another round of cocktails.
I can tell you that when I have to go back to Philly in August, I’m sure that a night out at the Bourbon will be on the agenda. Great food, great atmosphere and great people. When you find something that good, you don’t hesitate to go back.
Bourbon Blue
2 Rector Street
Philadelphia, PA 19127
215-508-3360 / www.bourbonblue.com
Rating: 4.5 Stars…
