San Francisco Round Up - Wayfare Tavern, Absinthe, Osha Thai, Caffe Cento: San Francisco, CA

A recent work trip found me touring and eating in San Francisco.  I attempted to eat healthfully on this trip, especially coming off of our other California adventure.  And l mostly succeeded.  (Note: No burgers, this time!)

I will be in SF again soon, so please send me any suggestions. I would love to check out some of your favorite spots. 

The Round Up:

Caffe Cento – An early morning flight from New York left us famished.  The doorman at the hotel recommended a lunch spot down the hill.  I had no idea what “down the hill” meant.  Luckily it was just one block down hill because this is San Francisco and these are HILLS.  This unassuming takeout shop housed in the bottom of the Fairmont Hotel served me my best meal in San Francisco.  It’s true, my favorite thing in a foodie city, was a takeout salad of all things.  I’m not sure what made this quinoa, tomato, feta, spinach salad so appealing.  It may have been the lemon vinaigrette dressing that did it.  Or the way the ingredients were so perfectly proportioned.  Whatever it is, if you are up for a walk up or down Nob Hill – try it.  Bonus is that there is a trolley stop right in front, if you want to experience that true "San Francisco treat" kind of feeling. 

801 Powell Street

San Francisco, CA

415.772.5032

http://www.fairmont.com/san-francisco/dining/caffe-cento/

Osha Thai – When I travel, I crave Asian food and usually Thai since that is so limited in my neighborhood.  This trip was no different.  We had a lot of Thai restaurants to choose from but selected something probably a little more mainstream since this was our first night in San Fran and we were tired.  Next time, I will find that authentic hole in the wall.  Though Osha was truly good, with moments of greatness. 

Osha is a small SF chain in happening neighborhoods with trendy Asian-inspired décor. We visited the Embarcadero location, so the crowd was a mix of tourists and business people.  Drinks were in order.  I chose Brut Rose – Rose and bubbles combined – can’t go wrong with that.

We shared two appetizers – a fresh spring roll and the crunchy tofu.  The spring roll had the requisite shrimp and mint with a tasty peanut dipping sauce.  The crunchy tofu tasted a little like a Tofu McNugget and came with a side of apples.  Not that there's anything wrong with a McNugget. Maybe this was their version of a Thai Happy Meal?

For dinner, I indulged in some angry prawns.  This steaming hot plate of delicious curried prawns and eggplant was my favorite dish of the night.  Spicy yet light. 

4 Embarcadero Center

San Francisco, CA 94111

415.788.6742

www.oshathai.com

Absinthe Brasserie -  Lunch was at Absinthe.   Tucked away in Hayes Valley, one the cutest neighborhoods I saw on my two day tour of San Fran, this place was packed, even boisterous for lunch on a Tuesday.  We started with hot bread as we awaited our cheese course.  I know I said that my quinoa salad was my favorite thing in SF, but this cheese course came in as a pretty close second.  A Mt. Tam from California’s Cowgirl Creamery was heavenly when paired with almond brittle.  The Italian Pecorino Ginepro was accompanied by white-wine poached peaches.  And finally a soft, creamy Seastack from Mt. Townsend Creamery in Washington State held its own against a bourbon-caramel pear compote. 

It would have been good to end lunch then.  My little gem lettuce salad with grilled chicken came with raw chicken.  Enough said.

398 Hayes Street

San Francisco, CA

415.551.1590

www.absinthe.com

Wayfare Tavern – For dinner on our second and sadly, last night, we stumbled into Wayfare Tavern at 5PM on a Tuesday.  Empty, you’d think, but no, we got a  “Sorry, we are fully committed” from the hostess.  The two-level space was empty, we were shocked.  We settled at a tiny bar table and agreed to make the best of this Tyler Florence restaurant. 

First, drinks.  It is a tavern and cocktails were in order (again).  My Pear 75 was a combination of pear cognac and prosecco.   Talk about hitting the spot. 

The menu was filled with interesting takes on some classic dishes.  Instead of Deviled Eggs, there was a Deviled Egg Salad.  And in lieu of French Onion Soup, a French Onion dip.  Neither of which I liked.  What I did like though was the baked macaroni and cheese which was flavored with smoked olive oil.  The smoked olive oil added a palate teasing flavor that made me keep taking more and more bites, just because I was trying to fully understand the flavor.

For my main, I went with the braised short rib.  Note “rib” not “ribs”.   When JB makes short ribs at home they are fall off the bone tender.  This was one huge hunk of meat.  Given that, it  required more work than the typical short ribs but still full of flavor.  I really did enjoy the baby carrots and onions in the dish, but could have done without the dressing-soaked cabbage.

My favorite part of the meal was dessert.  We shared the donuts special with a variety of dipping sauces.  But the winner was the Chocolate Cream Pie with chocolate pudding, Devil's food cake and a caramel ganache.  Yum.  This made it all worth it.

On my next visit, I think I need to try to the burger.  And some more of that mac and cheese.  There also seem to be a lot more gems on the menu, so while my experience wasn’t amazing, I think that there is an amazing one waiting to happen here. 

558 Sacramento Street

San Francisco, CA

415.772.9060

wayfaretavern.com

Until our next Berger,
KLB

Round Up Recap:

Caffe Cento: Go

Osha:  Go  

Absinthe:  Go for cheese. Only.

Wayfare Tavern: Go

Berger Review: Favorite Burgers of California: In-N-Out Burger, Umami Burger and Grill-A-Burger, Los Angeles and Palm Desert, CA

Eight days in California was not only our chance for warmth and sunshine, but also the opportunity to eat some terrific burgers.  While we didn't have a burger every day, we came pretty close.  And these were some of our favorites:

- In-N-Out Burger:  Planting an In-N-Out steps from LAX is genius.  This pretty much assures you a good burger when you land or one right before you depart, or both.  Every time we hit an In-N-Out we are devastated that they do not exist in New York.  I know they talk about the quality and how its hard to maintain, yet they figured out a way to bring it to Texas.  They could figure out New York.  Just saying...

In-N-Out strives on its simplicity. Burger, fries and shakes. Add cheese, add sauce.
Simple and perfect.  The boys and I chose plain burgers, JB had the works with sauce.  Some fries and vanilla shake make this the ideal off the plane lunch.  

In-N-Out is also a great social equalizer, families, people in business suits, workmen - everyone goes there for same thing - one (or two, or three) great burger(s).  And fries.  And shakes.

For locations visit in-n-out.com

- Grill-A-Burger: No, not all of our favorite burger places have hyphens in their name, just two out of three.  If you stepped inside Grill-A-Burger, you'd quickly agree.  It is the exact opposite of In-N-Out with 30 burgers to choose from, plus mini burgers, salads, sides and sandwiches.  Just reading their menu could take all night.  

Tucked in a strip mall in Palm Desert, a few blocks from the main drag, is this unassuming place with, dare I say, tacky palm tree wallpaper and very friendly service.   We were lucky to have a table ready within minutes and started down the path of ordering.

Some research showed that this place is consistently rated the best burger in the greater Palm Springs area and I agree.  There is something for everyone.

JB had spent the day playing golf and rewarded himself with a Big Mock - their take on the McDonald's original complete with double decker patties, American cheese, lettuce, onion, pickles and special sauce on a sesame bun.

My Oooh LaLa! Parisan Bistro Burger was oozing with boursin cheese, caramelized onions, bacon and garlic aoli.  Huge and delicious, while I didn't feel that I was in a Parisian Bistro, I definitely felt like it had the Oooh LaLa effect.  And I would order it again.

But our favorite item of the night was a simple starter of California Avocado Fries.  Just like it sounds these bad boys come rolled in panko and fried in beer batter with your choice of dipping sauces.  The sauce we choose tasted just like key lime pie and I wanted to lick the dish clean.  I almost did.  I've already asked JB to try to replicate these - but to date, he still has not tried.

73091 Country Club Drive at Monterey Avenue
Palm Desert, CA
760.346.8170
grill-a-burger.com

- Umami Burger: We started our California adventure with a burger and I was determined to finish it the same way.  Umami Burger, a small chain founded in California that recently expanded to New York, was our destination.  We were lucky to go to the Anaheim locale which is much less crowded then some of the others in LA (like the one at Fred Segal in Santa Monica which was packed the day I did some damage).  

Umami is defined as that fifth taste and I think I know what it is: YUM.  Since this was our last meal, we went a little overboard.

JB determined to keep up the double burger trend had the B.U.B. which is two patties, bacon, beer cheddar, onions, pickles and mustard, plus that ever important middle bun.  Because why have two pieces of bread when you can have three.  He was a huge fan.

I opted for the Truffle Burger which had not only truffle cheese but a truffle glaze on top of the delicious burger with a garlic aioli.  This was the best burger of the trip.  You really can't go wrong with truffles. Ever.

The thin fries were shoestring style and pretty amazing, too.  The boys devoured their completely plain burger, as usual.

I can't wait to go back.  And luckily, we won't have to go too far.  In addition to their Greenwich Village location, they are about to open another in the Financial District.

Find your closest location at umami.com/umami-burger

Until our next Berger,
KLB

Scrapple and the Mob: Kitchen Consigliere, Collingswood, NJ and Ponzio's, Cherry Hill, NJ

Say what you will about New Jersey, but it's never boring.  A recent venture where I dined in a Mob-themed Italian restaurant and followed by a scrapple breakfast proved this true.

Collingswood, New Jersey still has hints of a Mob-led town where several authentic Italian restaurants serve up excellent fare.  But Kitchen Consigliere goes a step further by incorporating the decor into the theme.  Servers are in full-on Bugsy Malone outfits, the light fixtures are old revolvers and black and white Mafia films air during dinner.

All restaurants in Collingswood are BYO since the town is dry (another throwback) so the prices are slightly inflated to make up for the fact that no one is making money on alcohol.  That said, service is also a little rushed so they can turn the tables faster.   BUT, this place is still full every night because the food ranges from good to amazing.

We tried the Rice Balls to start - these were huge and very crispy. Pancetta was a nice touch.  As suspected though, they did not live up to Marie's, another New Jersey establishment we loved last year.

I attempted to order a health(ier) entree and chose Chicken Sorrento which is sautéed chicken, mozzarella, grilled eggplant and fresh tomatoes.  My healthy vision went out the window when I realized it also came in a white wine butter sauce.  This did help mask the fact that the tomatoes were horribly out of season.

A better pick would have been the Sunday Gravy which my dining companions loved.  The large, steaming hot sausage, meatballs, spare ribs and braciolo over rigatoni covered in a lovely marinara sauce would have done the trick.  Or, alternatively, the house specialty eggplant parmesan is supposed to be amazing.

To make up for my poor entree choice, we chose the Pizzelle and Red Velvet Cake for dessert.  Both were massive in size and huge on taste.

The next morning, we went from one extreme to the other, when we dined at Ponzio's, a local diner.  I ordinarily wouldn't deem a diner like this blog-worthy had it not been for the scrapple.

I did not know what scrapple was and, truthfully, I would have preferred to keep it that way.  For those of you who don't know though, it is (from Wikipedia): a mush of deep fried pork scraps and trimmings, combined with cornmeal, flour and spices.  If there ever were a reason to become Kosher, this might be it.  I'd stay away.  But if you're intrigued the info is below.

Until our next Berger,
KLB

Kitchen Consigliere
700 Haddon Avenue
Collingsswood, NJ
856.854.2156
kitconcafe.com

Ponzio's
7 West Route 70
Cherry Hill, NJ
856.428.4808
ponzios.com

Phoenix Round Up – Los Dos Molinos, Arrogant Butcher & Province: Phoenix, AZ

Going to Phoenix in the winter is a no-brainer for the weather.  For the food, however, it can be hit or miss.  My all-time favorite in the Valley of the Sun is Lon’s at the Hermosa – sitting outside under the stars next to an outdoor fireplace – it is the perfect place to escape from anywhere.  Sadly, Lon’s was not on the agenda this visit, but we did hit a few interesting spots.

The highlights:

Los Dos Molinos

Many years ago, I went to a small Tex-Mex restaurant in NYC by the same name, and it was far from your average taco joint.  So, when scoping restaurants for our first night, I remembered that it originated in Phoenix and thought it might be time to try it again.  Turns out the NYC outpost has since closed, but the original Los Dos Molinos is going strong and has a few other outposts in the valley (we dined at the Camelback location).

The food technically is New Mexican, not Tex-Mex, and the biggest difference I see between the two is SPICE.  Wow – was everything hot.  A red and a green salsa accompanied the chips, and though the red was milder, no one could tell.  It was, however, an excellent excuse to keep drinking sangria.

An order of guacamole worked as our palate cleanser.  The lime green color seemed lighter than most guacamoles I’ve eaten though the taste was the same.  Nachos covered in cheese and chorizo were arranged as pie and deemed chorizo pizza, and a delicious one at that. 

Dinner was Enchiladas all around.  My shredded beef version was spicy though it was tempered by the accompanying rice and beans.   A chicken version was also a hit. 

Kind of makes me wish the NYC version still existed.

Various locations in Phoenix, AZ

losdosmolinosphoenix.com

The Arrogant Butcher

Fresh off a spicy evening, lunch time meant salad time for our large group.  The Arrogant Butcher in downtown Phoenix is the just the spot for the al fresco lunch and wishing your lunch break were just a little bit longer.

Right in the shadow of Chase Field (home of the Arizona Diamondbacks) and the US Airways Center (home of the Phoenix Suns), the Arrogant Butcher is the place before or after a game when you want something more than the local sports bar.  Sure they have beer and wings, but they also have charcuterie and olives and cheeses. 

I had the “Famous” Oriental Chicken Salad tossed in an Asian Vinaigrette with chicken, wontons, lettuce, almonds, it was good but I’m not sure famous-worthy.  Famous-worthy, though, was the Kale Salad with Salmon, Almonds and Currants that no one at my table could stop eating or talking about.  In fact, there were several post-lunch conversations about how to recreate this at home. 

My only gripe was that bread and oil we requested (and which was quite nice) came at a cost of $3.  Charging for bread when you are already charging $15 for salads seems extreme to me. 

 2 East Jefferson Street

Phoenix, AZ

602.324.8502

www.foxrc.com/restaurants/the-arrogant-butcher/

Province

I was skeptical when we decided to go to a restaurant called “Province” that was supposed to be French but mainly served Tapas in the new Westin in downtown Phoenix.  Lots of red flags were going off when a waitress declared it “Winedown Wednesdays” and that all bottles of wine were half price.  So we stayed.

Bread came immediately and was a pleasing plantain focaccia with a lovely dipping oil.  (And was free, Ahem, Arrogant Butcher). 

We did start with tapas.  Shrimp tacos were sub-par on a very bready-tortilla.  A sea bass ceviche was almost flavorless.  Chicken empanadas were OK, though on the dry side.  I did love the chorizo meatballs that came in a mini-skillet covered in cheese.  (Note to self: I really need to eat more chorizo). 

We had also ordered some soups and salad which came soon before we finished our tapas.  So our table was crowded and we felt rushed.  A chicken tortilla soup lacked the usual zest.  The Chili-spiced Caesar salad, though, was well done.  Maybe the best thing on the menu?

And before those were finished, a skirt steak with chimichurri sauce and mashed potatoes arrived.  While the sauce on the side was fine, the meat itself lacked some seasoning and so the sauce had to compensate.

A chocolate cupcake with a corresponding chocolate sorbet helped the meal end on a high note.

I will give the restaurant points for cool décor, a living moss wall and some upside down trees hanging from the ceiling.  So go for a drink, but that’s about it.  (And I hear they have a good happy hour from 11AM to 5PM on weekdays)

 333 N. Central Ave

Phoenix, AZ

 602.429.3600

phoenix.provincerestaurant.com

Until our next Burger,

KLB

Round Up Recap:

Los Dos Molinos: Go

Arrogant Butcher:  Go  

Province:  No Go 

A Chinatown Destination: Fu Run, Flushing, NY

Today's post on Thrillist titled The Definitive Eating Guide to Flushing, Queens is pretty spot on.   Bookmark it for your next visit to the "Real Chinatown."  The only place missing is Fu Run, where we recently enjoyed a birthday celebration for JB.

Just off of Main Street in Flushing, we were the only non-Asians at this unassuming restaurant.  The food is technically Northern Chinese, which is heavier and, I think better, than your standard fare.

Our party of 10 was placed in a separate room with a huge round table complete with a lazy Susan.  And that table quickly filled up with some of the most delicious Chinese food I've ever eaten.

In truth, we overordered.  We loved almost everything we sampled including:

- Muslim Lamb: This was the dish that brought us here.  Google this term and countless pictures of this dish will appear.  Fall of the bone lamb ribs are completely encrusted in cumin.  It's greasy and spicy and amazing.

- Crispy Beef: Same cumin but with fried beef.  This was a home run, too.

- Pork & Leek Dumplings: We got 2 orders of these steamed beauties.  The leeks added an additional kick and made the ordinary extraordinary.

- Eggpant in Brown Sauce: Fried and creamy purple delights, another winner

- Sauteed Shrimp: These shrimp were lighter than I expected and the accompanying sea cucumbers were a welcome treat

- Mao Pao Tofu: Huge chunks of silky tofu served almost as a palate cleanser for the other spicier fare.  This perfectly complemented many of the other dishes.

The more typical Chinese food here is just OK.  Chicken and broccoli seemed unauthentic, almost too American.  Chicken lo mein was greasy.  Bowls of hot and sour soup were massive yet ordinary.  

But you are not in Flushing for typical Chinese food.  You are here for food that is innovative and different.  Add this to your list.  And whatever you do, please, please, please order that Muslim Lamb.

Until our next Berger,
KLB

4009 Prince Street
Flushing, NY 11354
718.321.1363
www.furunflushing.com

A Korean Find: Surasang, Syosset, NY

When our travels find us hungry - my first instinct is to go for the local Burger place.  But even better, is a hole in the wall, ethnic spot, where we can indulge on something delicious and special that is not in our backyard.

Last night, Korean fit the bill.  I had read an article recently in the Long Island section of the New York Times that featured noodle soup spots (given the winter we've been having.)  The article mentioned a beef dumpling soup, Mandoo Gook, at a Korean establishment called Surasang in Syosset.  We were in.  

This is Long Island strip mall dining at it's best.  From the outside, the sign just reads "Korean Restaurant".  On the inside, it is a non-descript quiet room with a few tables run by a Korean family with a predominantly Korean clientele.  Hot pots don most of the tables. This is our kind of place.

Typical to most other Korean spots I've enjoyed, the minute you order you are presented with numerous small dishes of spicy delicacies - Kim Chi, Eggplant, Spinach, Potato, Zucchini, Radish - each flavored perfectly to complement the meal.  

First up for us was Korean Fried Chicken.  Slathered in a hot, sesame sauce our 6-piece order of wings and drumsticks didn't last long.  And yes, eating wings with chopsticks is the norm here. 

Then, the aforementioned Mandoo Gook soup, was perfect for a cold winter's night.  A huge bowl of an egg drop-type both with cellophane noodles and close to a dozen perfect beef dumplings became my favorite dish of the evening.  The dumplings themselves were steamed and full of spices that resonated with each bite.  And these dumplings were light, too - not an easy feat.

To finish, a sizzling plate of Bulgogi - barbecued rib eyesteak - helped us end our meal on a perfect note.  

We also contemplated a Bi Bim Bop, but settled just with plain rice for all. Next time for sure. And yes, there will be a next time. 

Until our next Berger, 

KLB

Surasan (aka the Korean Restaurant)

336 Jericho Turnpike

Syosset, NY 

516.496.8989

No website but plenty of reviews on Yelp. 

Berger Review/Chain Reaction: Bobby's Burger Palace, Lake Grove, NY

Another weekend, another Berger Review/Chain Reaction.  Bobby's Burger Palace has been a favorite of ours since it opened at the Smith Haven Mall in 2008.  Believe it or not, that location was the very first in the now 18 restaurant chain. I read recently that Bobby Flay, the owner and celebrity chef, chose this location to stay "off the radar" for his first foray into the fast-casual segment.  What he did not realize, was that that location was right on my radar, and we've been hooked ever since.

10 burger options are each interesting and well-composed.  You can choose from angus beef, turkey or chicken for your "burger".  And you can get them "crunchified" which, you guessed it, adds chips to your burger.

My favorite has long been the Napa Valley Burger with goat cheese, watercress and Meyer Lemon Honey Mustard.  They are very generous with the creamy goat cheese and the combination of the cheese with the tanginess of the Mayer Lemon is a win.  A big win.

Another one high on my list is the LA Burger with Avocado, Tomato, Watercress and Cheddar cheese.  This one is on the sweet side, and equally as good.

JB's fave is the Crunchburger with the aforementioned chips included on the burger with double American cheese although it is the salty side.  Tonight, to shake things up, he had the Dallas Burger with coleslaw, Monterrey Jack, BBQ sauce, and pickles.  The burger is coated in a spicy rub although not too spicy.

The boys always go for the plain burger and fries.  They cleared their plates in minutes and were surprisingly quiet from their stools.  A good sign.

JB and I also splurged on a vanilla shake (delicious, but freezing cold on a 25 degree night) and a side of beer-battered onion rings (I didn't love the beer coating, but JB was a fan).

They also have beer, wine and a Cactus Pear Margarita, if you feel like imbibing with your burger.  And the usual salads, veggie options if you are more calorie-conscious.

BBP has locations in NY, NJ, MD, CT, MA, NV, OH, PA, DC, FL...so put it on your list.

Until our next Berger,
KLB

Bobby's Burger Palace
355 Smith Haven Mall
Lake Grove, NY
631.382.9590
bobbysburgerpalace.com

On the Side: Be sure check out their Facebook page to learn about new store openings and the Burger of the Month.  I also hear a new menu is in the works.

Quicksie Meatball Takeout: That Meetball Place, Patchogue, NY

Full disclosure - I have not been to the Meatball Shop in NYC.  Getting to one of their 5 locations has been on my list for quite some time, so when I heard about That Meetball Place in Patchogue, I had to find a way.

We were in the neighborhood on Super Bowl Sunday, if dinner was going to be excess, why not add lunch to the mix, too.

Short on time, we opted for takeout from their easy to follow menu:
Step 1: Choose Your Balls
Step 2: Pick Your Sauce
Step 3: Pick Your Style

Sounds simple, right?  Except the choices are endless, meatballs come in a classic version as well as chicken, lamb, pork, veggie and fish varieties.  Sauces include several Italian options, like marinara and pesto, but there's also Asian and Greek styles, too.  Styles range from a sandwich to a slider to over pasta.

We opted for two baguette sandwiches to share.  A Classic Meatballs with Marinara and a Moroccan Lamb with Cool Tzatiki.  Both were excellent, although I favored the Moroccan Lamb.  Those balls had more spice, were more dense and overall had more interesting flavors.  Each one was $9 and came with a small salad.  We actually originally ordered the Classic Marinara balls over pasta but that was a $5 upcharge and I didn't think that sounded too worth it.  The house salad that came with cucumber, olives and chick peas, was a nice surprise, although the dressing was too oily.

There's also a whole page 2 of the menu that features soups, salads and sandwiches, plus kid friendly items like pasta, mac & cheese and fries.

JB and I have plans to go for a real dinner soon.  I want to order one of each "ball" as we sit in the sports bar like atmosphere with massive flat screen TVs.  Who's in?

Until our next Berger,
KLB

That Meetball Place
2 West Main Street
Patchogue, NY
631.569.5888
www.thatmeetballplaceli.com

New Orleans Roundup - Green Goddess, NOLA, Acme Oyster Bar & MiLa: New Orleans, LA

Anyone will tell you that New Orleans is a foodie town.   Everything from your 5-star restaurant to your complete dive should be good.  The biggest challenge is making the room in your stomach (and liver) for all of the food and drink.

These were the highlights:

Green Goddess
I was so hungry when we got to our hotel in New Orleans that when the doorman pointed to the Arby’s down the street, I almost considered it.   He also recommended a French Quarter spot called Green Goddess that was in a nearby alley.  We were slightly frightened but oh-so-curious.  A few blocks and one wrong turn, brought us to the alley where we walked into a tiny restaurant that looked like someone’s ramshackle home. 

There were no open tables in the miniscule front room and as we were led to the even smaller back room, our heads told us to turn around, but our bellies told us to stay. 

Turns out the bellies were right.

Coming off of the meal at Wednesday’s Table, I was drawn to the Tofu Bahn Mi.  There were plenty of non-vegetarian options – pork, shrimp, steak (no chicken though) – but I was ready for some spice.  My sandwich had hints of a po boy but with all of the delicious Banh Mi flavors – radish, carrots, cucumbers and two huge patties of fried tofu covered in the familiar sauce.  A small salad dressed with the same sauce.  Where were we again?  It was seriously transporting. 

My dining companion ordered the completely different yet equally amazing brulee Fig chevre French toast.  Sweet, tangy and rich - this chef can cook. 

And might I add that this place is also easy on the wallet (well, they didn’t spend much on décor), less than $25 for two and we were fully satiated and ready for more adventures.

307 Exchange Place

New Orleans, LA

504.301.3347

www.greengoddessrestaurant.com

 
NOLA
This was our only “planned” meal.  You can’t go to New Orleans without one celebrity chef meal.  Last time, it was David Besh at Luke.  This time we chose Emeril. 
 
NOLA is one of Emeril’s three establishments in the Big Easy, this one being the least fancy and the only one without his name in the title.  It is a packed three-story crowd pleaser a few blocks into the French Quarter with a heavily Southern-influenced menu. 
 
Shrimp and Grits was a must for me here.  I had really loved the ones at Luke and I needed to try Emeril’s.  Unfortunately, I was disappointed.  The shrimp were well cooked and atop bacon-laced cheddar grits, with a large barbecue sauce drizzle.  Really? Barbecue sauce?  It threw off the whole flavor of the dish.
 
Other dishes were better like the New Orleans style Caesar salad and the local Drum, but messing with a classic – not cool. 
 

534 St. Louis St.

New Orleans, LA

504.522.6652

 www.emerilsrestaurants.com/nola-restaurant‎

Acme Oyster Bar
Acme is at the top of many visitors' lists.  It is an institution of classic New Orleans food.  It is a dive and it is packed.  Even at 2:00 PM on a Friday in unseasonably cold and rainy weather, there was a wait outside.  It went quickly and we secured our seats at the bar.

If this were a typical review (not part of a roundup) this would be a quicksie review.  We were in and out in less than 30 minutes.  They serve these classics up fast.  Within minutes of ordering, I was indulging in their classic Red Beans and Rice.

This was not another vegetarian meal because in New Orleans, Red Beans and Rice also means Sausage and Cooking Meat.  Cooking Meat, you ask? According to my waitress, it’s the meat they use to cook the beans – most likely it was sausage and ham, but she couldn’t be sure.  No matter, it was just the fuel we needed to get us through the busy day.

If you need to order something you can be 100% definitely sure about its contents, I’d recommend the oysters.  They looked pretty incredible.

724 Iberville Street

New Orleans, LA

504.522.5973

www.acmeoyster.com

 
MiLa
After many meals of Starbucks and swiping food from conference rooms, we had one final opportunity to enjoy the Crescent City.  We opted to avoid the French Quarter and headed to a hotel in the nearby Central Business District.  What appealed to me about MiLa (named for Mississippi and Louisiana from where the chefs hail) was that one of the chefs, Alison Vines-Rushing had worked for some of the best in NYC. Having worked for Jean-Georges and Alain Ducasse, I had a hunch that she knew her stuff.
 
Compared to the other boisterous joints of the past few days, MiLa was a respite of calm, quiet even.  And we had no trouble getting a last minute reservation on Saturday night.  Everything from the décor to the menu reminded us of a NY restaurant, but there were some nice Southern touches that reminded us of our locale.
 
Dinner started with sweet potato rolls, cornbread, sweet butter and a pureed lentil spread.  The sweet potato rolls and lentils were our immediate favorite.  An amuse bouche soon arrived of lobster tempura on a stick.  I was going to like this place.
 
We opted to share a lobster starter that consisted of lobster meat on a baguette with meyer lemon, garlic and olive oil.  A deconstructed lobster roll of sorts.   While not the easiest to share, mainly because each of us wanted the whole things, we welcomed the taste of lobster after being in such a shrimp heavy environment. 
 
Furthermore, for my main, I went for the standard seared ahi tuna over spinach.  I felt as if I hadn’t had a vegetable in days.  The southern touch here was the molasses sauce over the perfectly crusted and rare fish.  We all ate in silence, happy to have such an elegant meal. 
 
Dinner would not have been complete without dessert.  A chocolate peanut butter tart was just rich enough for 3 people to share.  
 
817 Common Street

New Orleans, LA

504.412.2580

www.milaneworleans.com

 
Round Up Recap:
Green Goddess: Go
NOLA: NOGO
Acme Oyster Bar: Go
MiLa: Go
 
Until our next Berger,
KLB

Double Date Sushi Night: Poke, New York, NY

Sushi and a Movie is quickly becoming our standard date night.  And better than that is how we spent a recent Saturday night – Sushi and a Movie Double Date Night, in NYC, at a BYO restaurant. 

As our plan quickly came together, Vanessa suggested Poke on the Upper East Side.  JB and I had been there years ago and remembered it delicious, but tiny and almost drab.  As we briskly walked on East 85^th street, we realized that restaurant had moved down the block since our last visit and the tiny establishment was four times the old space, lively and vibrant.  And the BYO policy still remained. 

The  best part about our double date, other than the company, of course, was that we could sample so many different dishes.  Many of them are definitely worth sampling for yourself.  Our meal included:

 - Yellowtail Tartar with Jalapenos – Thinly sliced and ample sized, we dove into the 6 pieces that were presented to us.

 - Tuna Pizza – OK, this was an impulse, and nothing like what we’ve had at other fine sushi establishments.  This tuna pizza actually had mozzarella on it.  And instead of a rice cracker, it was a scallion pancake.  Odd all around.

 - Pearl Roll – Deep fried oysters with cucumber and scallion – after ordering one, we had to get another.

  -  Dynamite Roll – Spicy yellowtail, avocado and tempura flakes.  Yum, Yum and Yum.

 - Sashimi Special – If this was the kind of place that had a sushi boat, then this platter would have   come on it.  16 pieces of fresh, amazing fish – Tuna, Toro, Yellowtail, Salmon, Mackerel…it went on and on.

- Gyoza – We were still a little hungry after eating so much fish, so we added on an order of these and they were meaty and filled us up (but not greasy overly fried so there was room left for popcorn)

We got a little greedy at the end, so I can’t remember them all.  But with the exception of the tuna pizza (and really a tuna pizza isn’t sushi anyway), this is one fine sushi restaurant.  Pair that with your own bottle of wine or two and it’s a great night.  Movie or not.

Until our next Berger,
KLB

Poke Restaurant

343 E. 85^th Street

New York, NY

212.249.0569

Pokesushinyc.com

Berger Review/Chain Reaction: BurgerFi, New York, NY

Technically our visit to BurgerFi in NYC is both a Berger Review and a Chain Reaction.  Either way, it’s a great spot.  And I had no idea until after we dined there, that indeed it was a chain.  We care about burgers, that’s about it, and maybe some fries, too. 

These burgers are good.  You build your own when you order at the counter.  I went for it with a single burger, swiss cheese and hickory bacon and fresh lemonade.  The burgers come out with their name “BURGERFI” branded onto the bun.  Though not large, I was immediately satisfied with the fresh ingredients.   And might I mention, free refills on the lemonade. 

The family concurred.   JB ordered the BurgerFi Cheeseburger straight off the menu.  A double burger, with double American, lettuce, tomato and a the BurgerFi sauce.  He was hooked.  The boys and Nana polished off their plain patties, too.

Fries were a hit.  We had to place a second order.   Onion rings were, too – although one order was enough for us.  

They also have hot dogs, a full bar and frozen custard.  Sort of like a Shake Shack but with a few more options. 

BurgerFi’s “Secret Menu” offers  fries “Well Done” or “Limp”.  I’d pay money to see JB order some “Limp” fries.  Perhaps on our next visit.

Until our next Berger.

KLB

BurgerFi

1571 2^nd Avenue

New York, NY

646.684.3172

BurgerFi.com

Side Dish: BergerFi is rapidly expanding.  In addition to four restaurants in NY, they are in Texas, Florida, Connecticut, New Jersey and soon to be more.  Check their website to see if there’s a location close to you. 

Banh Mis Out East: Wednesday's Table, Southold, NY

I couldn't believe it either. Real Vietnamese food in Eastern Long Island? Our local rag, Dan's Papers, said it was true. JB and I longingly miss the days of Bo Luc Lac being delivered to our door in minutes, so within about 18 hours of me reading about it, we drove ourselves to Southold in search of some Hanoi heaven.

Now, Wednesday's Table is not a typical Vietnamese restaurant. The owners are of Vietnamese descent but they offer a variety of soups, salads and sandwiches, only one of which is a nod to their heritage. In addition to lunch, they also serve breakfast including egg sandwiches and some awesome-looking baked goods.  

We called ahead to the counter service establishment and placed our order. One Banh Mi with chicken (spicy), 1 chicken BLT, a burger, fries and onion rings. We arrived at a bright, cute establishment with a few tables and chairs inside and plenty of room for outdoor dining, too. 

Each dish was a winner.  The Banh Mi was just as we remembered them. Chicken with a spicy sauce, onions, cucumbers, radish, cilantro and mayo on a crusty hero.  This is definitely authentic.  The Chicken BLT was just as good with a lemony aioli slathered on the ciabatta.  We also indulged in a few of their bite size onion rings which were crispy, plentiful and extra delish with some of that banh mi spicy sauce.

And my boys, of course, enjoyed their burger and fries.  JB and I snagged their brioche bun.  What really impressed me was that each sandwich had its own fresh made bread.

Actually, everything impressed me.  I can't wait to return.

Until our next Berger,

KLB

Wednesday's Table
53345 Main Road
Southold, NY
631.876.5251
wednesdays-table.com

A Japanese Hideaway: Shigure, New York, NY

JB wants to be Mr. Japanese, still.  He loves it all  - sushi (obviously), robata, ramen, teppanyaki, sake and, of course, izakaya - the japanese gastropub.   In fact, it appears that these traditional Japanese small plates restaurants are starting to grow in prominence in New York as noted in Time Out and in a New York Times article written about Shigure that JB ripped out, handed to me and asked "When are we going?"

A few months later on a dark street in Tribeca we found ourselves in front of an almost invisible door about to enter this den of deliciousness.  This place is so under the radar, we didn't need a reservation on a Saturday night.  We were warmly welcomed by the bartender come hostess who showed us to a small table close to the bar with a great view of the sake map on the wall.   For most of the meal, we were the only non-Japanese patrons in the place, an excellent sign of authenticity.

Being a brewpub, JB ordered a Japanese beer while I stuck to wine.  It was impossible deciding what to order.  In hindsight, we probably over ordered, but when in an izakaya.....

Each dish was a treat in itself.

Our highlights:

-  Renkon Kimpira: These were pan fried lotus roots with a shishito pepper - crunchy and spicy, almost good for you

- Shio-Koji Fried Chicken: JB's favorite Japanese style fried chicken, white and dark meat

- Sashimi Maguaro & Avocado: Think tuna sashimi over guacamole.  And then think amazing.

- Mini Zuke Maguro Don: More tuna, this time over rice.  Sort of like a step up from your usual Tekka Don.  JB wanted to move into to this dish.

- Fried Pork with a clean ponzu sauce (can't recall the Japanese name): I didn't want to like this one and then found myself taking piece after piece.

There were more plates than there was room on the table.  Another excellent sign.

This is the kind of place you want to tell everyone about and then no one, it could be our own private restaurant.  Our secret lair.  But it wouldn't be fair if I didn't share.

Next time we're trying the sake menu, and of course, more small plates.

Until our next Burger,
KLB

Shigure
277 Church Street
New York, NY
212.965.0200
www.sakebar-shigure.com

Bergers at the Smorgasburg!: Brooklyn, NY

I had been begging to go to the Smorgasburg for months.  The Smorgasburg, for those of you not aware, is a roving band of food vendors that set up in various Brooklyn locations every weekend.  Food stand upon food stand, it was a Mecca of sorts for me.  If I still lived in New York, I am certain that this would be a part of my usual weekend routine, and one December Saturday we finally got there.  (Lucky for me, this year the Smorgasburg now has a winter indoor location).  I'm fairly certain that the outdoor Smorgasburg is a completely different experience, and I look forward to going come Spring, but for now 75 food vendors will just have to suffice. 

That's right, 75 food vendors under one roof in a Williamsburg warehouse, if only I had the time, stamina and stomach to try them all.  We did our requisite research on the drive in, each vendor is listed on the website in advance along with a map so you can attempt to plan your visit.  Lines can be long especially for the "it" item.  For example, we did not feel like waiting an hour for the Ramen Burger but we took a peak at it and perhaps JB can recreate it at home.  

Some of our highlights: 

- Dough: The first stop because Big Z had been so patient on the drive to Brooklyn (not really). Z's reward was a massive, plain glazed donut for $2.25.  It was big enough to keep him entertained through our entire visit.  I hear they have a Bed-Stuy location, we may be stopping by.

- Cemita's Mexican Sandwiches: JB had seen a TV show that featured these Mexican behemoths, so we braved a moderate line for a freshly made sandwich.  Our Cemita was a roll piled with steak, Mexican cheese, avocado, onion and a few different kids of sauces.  In a word, it is awesome and worth every bit of $8. 

- Kelvin Natural Slush Co.: While waiting for the cemita, I was able to sample, for free, a spicy ginger slush. Not exactly my thing, but I appreciated the opportunity to try something that I would usually skip.  

- Landhaus: Little D is our bacon lover.  Sadly, he was not a Smorgasburg lover.  We saw bacon on a stick and thought this would be better than any cookie would be.  We were wrong on that front, but our $3 bacon on a stick was just awesome.  Awesome sugary-glazed bacon.  Thanks for sharing, D. 

- McClure's Pickles:  The bacon didn't work.  But the pickles did.  We made two stops here for their spicy wonders, $2 each, made with both cayenne and habanero versions.  Perfect for our feisty 4 year old. 

I could have stayed all day. But not all of the members of our party (namely the ones 5 and under) were as into it.  I drooled past the BBQ, the grilled cheese, the lobster, the Asian-style hot dogs, just so much amazing food.

I highly recommend a visit, whether you have one snack or twenty, it is certainly a New York experience.  

I can't wait to go back. 

Until our next Berger, 
KLB

Smorgasburg.com
Find more info about the Smorgasburg including locations, hours and the vendor list.  Enjoy!

A Family Affair: Bistro 25, Sayville, NY

Our path to Bistro 25 was not a smooth one.  It was dark, it was snowing and our party of 9 was turned down by our original choice (more about that later).  Some quick Google work led our family to this welcoming and delicious stop in Sayville.

I was still somewhat skeptical as the over-friendly server handed us our menus, and then I saw the
menu.  Pork belly, truffled macaroni and cheese, this was no roadside restaurant.

The restaurant is named Bistro 25 as most of their wines are $25 a bottle.  Of course, we didn't realize this until half-way through dinner, so I will tell you all now.  Wines by the glass, though, were not too shabby either.  My prosecco was a heavy and bubbly pour.  A pinot noir, also a good size, was robust and flavorful.

JB started with a salad, that, upon its arrival, I promptly shared.  Spicy and peppery arugula was lightly dressed with grape tomatoes, parmesan shavings and a light lemon vinaigrette.  For me to like a vinaigrette, means it was indeed a good one.  A chopped salad that included candied walnuts and dried cranberries was also a hit our table.

For dinner, I chose a scallop special with brussel sprouts and pancetta.  I had to battle little D for almost all of my pancetta.  I inhaled the well-flavored scallops in minutes.  Meanwhile, JB chose the pappardelle with a meat ragu.  The meat itself was delicious and appeared to be the same meat in the short ribs that were also at our table.  Another table favorite was a fish-filled paella.

Par for the course, our boys had burgers and fries which passed their test.  Little D had a double order of bacon that he graciously shared after the pancetta incident.

A simple dessert of a dark chocolate tart ended our decadent meal.  The boys had house made ice cream.

I am looking forward to our return, this time as our planned destination.

A note about our original choice: Downtown Burger at Five Points Cafe.  This place was written up in Newsday as one of the best burgers on Long Island, however, they would not seat our party of nine despite having the room for us.  Big mistake.

Until our next Berger,
KLB

Bistro 25
45 Foster Avenue
Sayville, NY
631.589.7775
www.bistro25li.com

A Groupon Steak Feast: Delmonico's, Southampton, NY

When Groupon first appeared on the scene, I was an instant fan.  Discounts on food, massages, clothes?  YES! But then I found myself purchasing items I really didn't need and struggling to redeem them on time.  So I cooled off.  Occasionally though, there is something too good to pass up.  Like the Groupon I found for Delmonico's Steakhouse in Southampton, NY.
                           
       * $100 for 4-courses for 2, including wine *

Sign me up.  I quickly purchased the deal and immediately felt satisfied.  And then I waited.  And waited.  And soon, as with all Groupons, the expiration date loomed.  No need for a special occasion, an offer was expiring.  I picked a Friday and tried not to eat a big lunch.

On a July Friday, this place would be packed.  On a December Friday, it was empty.  The room was welcoming with a roaring fireplace and just two tables of two seated next to it.  "Have a Groupon?" the host asked when we arrived - I guess we weren't the only ones.

The Groupon offered some impressive choices.  For the the first course there were two salads, a crab cake and a soup special.  JB opted for a heaping wedge salad covered in bacon and blue cheese.  My Caesar salad was standard and tiny compared to JB's.  The second course was a mushroom risotto.  Being mushroom averse, I inquired about a mushroom-free risotto.  I was initially told that my request could not be accommodated, and then the server returned victoriously with my sans-funghi creamy and cheesy risotto.  Note: JB was a fan of the mushroom version.

The third course was a no-brainer for us both among the choices - a 40 day prime aged strip steak.  This was the best part of the deal.  The steak was perfectly cooked and massive.  It could have used a side, but we really did not need it.  After JB helped me to finish mine, we still had to take some home.

Dessert offered just one choice - a salted caramel and chocolate tart with vanilla ice cream.  I ate the tart and JB the ice cream.

Service was brisk, a la steakhouse style, and we did have to pay full tax and tip on the meal, so it wasn't just $100 even. While still a tremendous deal,  it is, unfortunately, no longer on offer on Groupon.  Furthermore, I have heard rumors this location may close (or perhaps just for the Winter season).  So I will consider myself lucky that I got to eat a great meal at a great price.

Until our next Burger, 
KLB

Delmonico's of Southampton
268 Elm Street
Southampton, NY
631.283.0202

delmonicosofsouthampton.com

A Celebratory Lunch: Topping Rose House, Bridgehampton, NY

When there's a new restaurant in the Hamptons, I put it on my must-hit list.  My list is long.  So I slowly chip away at it.  When the Topping Rose House opened in late 2012 with Tom Colicchio as head chef, it took a spot at the top of my list and remained there until last week, when JB and I treated ourselves to a celebratory lunch.  A lunch worthy of celebrating indeed.

The Topping Rose House is an historic home turned luxury hotel (read: rooms start at around $500/night).  The renovations are top notch and the pinnacle of the experience is dining at their establishment which focuses on farm to table fine dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.  Given that we are now in the off-season, at 12:30 on a Wednesday, we were the only two in the 50 seat dining room.  It was heavenly.

The small room is comprised mostly of two-tops and four-tops, some along a banquette with large old windows overlooking Montauk Highway.  The music was a bit loud for just the two of us, but would have been fine with a few more patrons.

Service was impeccable and stands out with little touches.  As we sat, my white napkin was promptly switched for a black one.  We were offered a taste of our wines by the glass prior to the full pour.  The potato rolls were warm and lightly dusted with salt.

The lunch menu is well-curated and small with just five appetizers and five entrees (including a burger!) Our server presented us with two bowls of beautifully cured bacon and creme fraiche and proceeded to cover it with potato leek soup.   The bacon was crispy and well complemented the robust potato flavor.   I would have preferred slightly warmer soup, though, it was warm enough.

For our mains, I chose the cheese pumpkin agnoolotti.  This homemade pasta came with discs of duck confit and pecorino, it was rich and delicious.  Better still was JB's entree of the chicken sausage with roasted vegetables and chicken jus. While on paper it appeared simple, the sausage was seared to perfection and each vegetable seemed hand-selected for the dish including the tiniest broccoli florets I have ever seen. 

To finish we ordered the apple pie which was not just a slice but rather a miniature pie surrounded in a flaky, buttery crust.  Completing the plate was vanilla bean ice cream and caramel.  We could not have asked for a better dessert to finish our special meal.  

While JB ordered a fresh French press and I finished a local Long Island Red Wine, we imagined dinner on a crowded summer night.  I can only assume that the restaurant at full capacity is as delightful as it is for two.  I hope to find out soon. 

Until our next Berger, 
KLB

Topping Rose House
One Bridgehampton - Sag Harbor TurnpikeBridgehampton, NY631.537.0870

toppingrosehouse.com

On the Side:  Open daily year-round, breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Prix-fixe dinner currently offered Sunday to Thursday, 3 courses for $48.

The Post-Thanksgiving Meal: Pasta Pasta, Port Jefferson, NY

In our family, and most families I imagine, there is the obligatory visit with the family that you didn't see on Thanksgiving.  This year our visit took place in Port Jefferson, NY, a former shipbuilding town that is now home to several touristy shops and a ferry that traverses Long Island Sound to Connecticut.  Eating was on the itinerary.

We usually eat at a spot called the Fifth Season that is very close to the ferry dock, but they do not serve lunch on Saturdays so we headed to an oft-recommended spot, Pasta Pasta.  Although no one was really in the mood for Italian food, I assured the group that Pasta Pasta offered more than just it's name.

The dining room is quaint, romantic almost, with frilly curtains and mirrors.  Yet they were kid-friendly and did not seem to mind when little D was wailing while waiting for the Wi-Fi to connect.  (Yes, full disclosure, I let my boys use their electronic devices sometimes at restaurants).

The menu is massive.  In addition to the assumed pasta section, they have a major focus on seafood and landlubber items.  At lunch, this came in the form of salads, sandwiches, pizzas and entrees.

While we perused the menu, a gigantic bread basket arrived that contained several pounds of garlic-slathered bread.  This thing was heavy to pass around the table but quickly got lighter and lighter.

Ordering took awhile as there were so many choices, but we finally settled on two seafood salads, one with crab cakes and the other with lobster, two filet mignon quesadillas and one hamburger with fries.

Contrary to the bread, the crab cakes were miniscule.  After two excellent bites of crab cake, it was all lettuce.  The lobster salad had more meat to it and tasted especially fresh and light.  The filet mignon quesadillas were packed with flavorful ingredients including alouette and mozzarella cheese, caramelized onions and roasted corn.  The quesadillas themselves were crispy, covered with chipotle lime aioli and plentiful.  My Dad who was still hungry after the crab cakes was able to fill up with my remaining quesadilla donation.  Oh and as always, the boys enjoyed their hamburger and fries.

Now, I do wonder if we ordered correctly.  I think everything we had was fine, good even, but not outstanding.  Other tables appeared to really have some winning dishes, including wasabi calamari and all of the pastas.  I guess in a restaurant called Pasta, Pasta, that is probably the right order.

Until our next Berger,
KLB

Pasta Pasta
 234 E Main St
Port Jefferson, NY
631.331.5335
pastapasta.net

PS -- After lunch, we stopped in an adorable restaurant, C'est Cheese, that sells grilled cheese, cheese boards, wine, etc.  It is on my list for the next visit.  We did take home some amazing Point Reyes Toma to tide us over until our next trip to Port Jeff.