tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9829868867735489512024-03-12T22:17:44.862-07:00Alice's RestaurantsFood and other random recommendations from traveling fundraisers.Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14674687441518229692noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-15523427955170988202019-07-06T11:47:00.000-07:002019-07-06T11:47:33.475-07:00Favorite Places in Montreal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew is Concordia bound!</td></tr>
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So, my son is moving to Montreal to go to Concordia University. While this might freak some parents out, I'm totally looking forward to visiting Matthew in his new adopted home!<br />
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My friend, Frank Douma, asked for some recommendations for his trip, and here's what I came up with. This is just a start, for sure!<br />
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<b>La Banquise</b><br />
994, rue Rachel Est<br />
Montréal, QC H2J 2J3<br />
<a href="https://labanquise.com/en/">https://labanquise.com/en/</a><br />
The first time I ate here, my (then brand new) friend, <a href="https://twitter.com/ligiafpena?lang=en" target="_blank">Ligia Peña</a>, brought Jim, Chris and me to have poutine as part of our "intro to Montreal" tour. Ligia spoiled us for all other poutine.<br />
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<b>La Fromagerie Atwater</b><br />
134 Atwater Ave<br />
Montreal, QC H3J 2J4<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Banquise Poutine</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.marchespublics-mtl.com/en/marchands/la-fromagerie-atwater/">https://www.marchespublics-mtl.com/en/marchands/la-fromagerie-atwater/</a><br />
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Another Ligia recommendation, although it took us a few more visits to get here. I could spend hours at this cheese shop, and our cheesemonger, France (really, that was her name), was incredibly patient, packaging up kilos of cheese in a way that we could take it through customs and security at the airport.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand Roll at Au Pied de Cochon</td></tr>
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<b>Au Pied de Cochon</b><br />
536 Avenue Duluth E<br />
Montréal, QC H2L 1A9<br />
<a href="https://aupieddecochon.ca/en/">https://aupieddecochon.ca/en/</a><br />
If you want a hugely indulgent meal, go here. You must like foie gras and really rich food. I love how unpretentious this place is, and the food is really amazing.<br />
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<b>Joe Beef</b><br />
2491 Notre-Dame West<br />
Montréal, QC H3J 1N6<br />
<a href="https://www.joebeef.ca/">https://www.joebeef.ca/</a><br />
Finally made it to Joe Beef. The key is to put yourself on the waiting list for a reservation as soon as you can and do it for every day you are in Montreal. And be prepared to change your plans! This place was worth the hype. Our server was very gracious and really felt like our hostess, and the food was exceptional.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Strangely enough, I was not as enamored with their sister restaurant, Liverpool House, but that could be because we were sitting next to a really boorish guy that time.)</span><br />
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<b>Belon</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horse tenderloin at Joe Beef</td></tr>
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1101 Rue de Bleury<br />
Montréal, QC H2Z 1N1<br />
<a href="https://belon.ca/en/">https://belon.ca/en/</a><br />
Hip place for seafood. Get as much as you can handle from the raw bar, as they have some hard to get items that are very fresh. Also, check out their cheeky humor at the restrooms.<br />
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<b>Kinton Ramen</b><br />
Various locations<br />
<a href="https://www.kintonramen.com/canada/">https://www.kintonramen.com/canada/</a><br />
This is Matthew's favorite ramen. I expect when we say that college students live on ramen, Matthew's experience will be very different. He likes the days when they have karaage ramen on special.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate. Need I say more?</td></tr>
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<b>Maison Christian Faure</b><br />
Two locations<br />
<a href="https://maisonchristianfaure.ca/en/contact/">https://maisonchristianfaure.ca/en/contact/</a><br />
Incredibly indulgent and 'grammable desserts.<br />
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<b>Montreal-style bagels</b><br />
I am location-agnostic on this. I know locals have distinct loyalties to their bagel shops, but I'm not that nuanced yet. I even had one at the airport that I thought was great.<br />
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<b><i>Other Things to do in Montreal</i></b></div>
<b>Notre-Dame Basilica</b><br />
<a href="https://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/en">https://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/en</a><br />
<a href="https://www.aurabasiliquemontreal.com/en/">https://www.aurabasiliquemontreal.com/en/</a><br />
Visit during the day and in the evening if you can, because Aura, their evening multimedia display, is worth it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notre-Dame Basilica during Aura</td></tr>
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<b>Montreal History and Archeology Museum</b><br />
<a href="https://pacmusee.qc.ca/en/">https://pacmusee.qc.ca/en/</a><br />
I've been here four times and I still discover something new. Great multimedia displays to help you learn some history of Montreal.<br />
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<b>Cirque du Soleil</b><br />
<a href="https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/canada/montreal/shows">https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/canada/montreal/shows</a><br />
If you're in Montreal in June or July, check out the way that Cirque du Soleil was designed to be seen--under the big top, by the Old Port. If you've seen Cirque in Vegas, or in their traveling shows, you still must see a show at the "mother ship."<br />
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<b>Montreal Amphi-Bus Tours</b><br />
<a href="https://www.montreal-amphibus-tour.com/">https://www.montreal-amphibus-tour.com/</a><br />
Growing up in Wisconsin, these were the "Ducks" of Wisconsin Dells. The tour in Montreal is a great way to see a little of the city and get on the water if you are visiting in the summer.<br />
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<b>Mount Royal</b><br />
<a href="https://www.lemontroyal.qc.ca/en">https://www.lemontroyal.qc.ca/en</a><br />
The namesake of Montreal, it's worth a jaunt up to Mount Royal to check out the view and visit the big cross.<br />
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<b>Montreal Jazz Festival</b><br />
<a href="https://www.montrealjazzfest.com/en-CA">https://www.montrealjazzfest.com/en-CA</a><br />
If you're in town at the end of June and beginning of July, the Jazz Festival is totally worth it. The acts on the free stages are incredible, and the ticketed shows are amazing too.<br />
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There are so many things I haven't done yet in Montreal, so I'm looking forward to more reasons to visit!<br />
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Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Montreal, QC, Canada45.5016889 -73.56725599999998645.145911899999994 -74.212702999999991 45.8574659 -72.921808999999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-82887407259193258872019-07-06T10:39:00.001-07:002019-07-06T10:39:20.943-07:00Favorite Places in Los AngelesPretty much all of our posts are triggered by questions from our friends. This post is inspired by Chad Barger of <a href="https://productivefundraising.com/" target="_blank">Productive Fundraising</a>, a nonprofit consultant colleague, productivity nerd, and generally all-around good guy. Follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/fundraiserchad?lang=en" target="_blank">Twitter at @fundraiserchad</a>!<br />
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So the greater LA area is <b>BIG</b>. I can't even assume to be an expert on this metro, as I have spent most of my time in Pasadena, Burbank and Orange County. But, here are my picks anyway:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Musso and Frank's Manny Aguirre</td></tr>
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<b>Musso and Frank Grill</b><br />
6667 Hollywood Blvd<br />
Hollywood, CA 90028<br />
<a href="https://mussoandfrank.com/">https://mussoandfrank.com/</a><br />
Time to go old school. I have a soft spot for classic early 20th century style restaurants that still pride themselves on great cocktails, impeccable service, and traditional fine dining.<br />
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<b>Din Tai Fung</b><br />
Multiple locations in the Los Angeles area<br />
<a href="https://dintaifungusa.com/locations_us/">https://dintaifungusa.com/locations_us/</a><br />
I have not been to this location, but it is one of the ways that the Taiwanese are taking over the world. I've been to Din Tai Fung locations in Taiwan and Hong Kong. I love their pork and the crab and pork Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sashimi course at Hamasaku</td></tr>
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<b>Hamasaku</b><br />
11043 Santa Monica Blvd<br />
Los Angeles, CA 90025<br />
<a href="http://www.hamasakula.com/">http://www.hamasakula.com/</a><br />
Most good Asian restaurants in LA are in strip malls, it seems. While this place is a bit tricky for a first-timer to find, once inside, it's a little oasis. We had the omakase, and I was happy with almost all of the courses--the only critique I would provide is that I think there were too many heavier cooked dishes; I would have liked a little more balance in some lighter choices.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Counter at Pizzeria Mozza</td></tr>
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<b>Pizzeria Mozza</b><br />
641 N Highland Ave<br />
Los Angeles, CA 90036<br />
<a href="https://pizzeriamozza.com/">https://pizzeriamozza.com/</a><br />
Is this place worth the hype? Yes, it is. Eat at the bar if you can. Not as crazy busy for a late lunch.<br />
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<b><i>Other things we like that are not restaurants, theme parks or something related to movie or television production</i></b><br />
Don't get me wrong. I LOVE Disneyland and have had a blast at Universal Studios many times. But you have to do something else, right?<br />
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<b>The Getty Museum</b><br />
<a href="https://www.getty.edu/museum/">https://www.getty.edu/museum/</a><br />
I've been to the Getty Center many times and I run out of time every visit. Amazing collection. I hope to check out the Villa sometime.<br />
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<b>The Autry Museum of the American West</b><br />
<a href="https://theautry.org/">https://theautry.org/</a><br />
I didn't think this would be my jam, but I enjoyed it. I particularly enjoyed the Hollywood Western memorabilia.<br />
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I have several restaurants on my list to try, including but not limited to, of course:<br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="https://n-naka.com/" target="_blank">n/naka</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.troismec.com/" target="_blank">Trois Mec</a></li>
<li><a href="http://kogibbq.com/taqueria/" target="_blank">Kogi Tacos</a></li>
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Maybe it's time for a trip.</div>
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Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Los Angeles, CA, USA34.0522342 -118.243684933.2099567 -119.5345784 34.8945117 -116.95279140000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-26576322488199137642017-11-16T15:36:00.000-07:002017-11-16T15:36:25.666-07:00Favorite Places in Chicago<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bean</td></tr>
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Once again, I hear that a friend is going someplace, and that triggers a new post! This time, I can blame Kevin Heinonen, General Manager/Owner of <a href="https://www.tinderboxkitchen.com/" target="_blank">Tinderbox Kitchen</a>, the <a href="https://www.annexcocktaillounge.com/" target="_blank">Annex Cocktail Lounge</a>, and <a href="https://www.touristhomemarket.com/" target="_blank">Tourist Home Urban Market</a>. He's off to Chicago, so here are my favorites.<br />
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<b>Topolobampo</b><br />
445 N Clark St<br />
Chicago, IL 60654<br />
<a href="http://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants/topolobampo/">http://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants/topolobampo/</a><br />
Rick Bayless' fine dining restaurant, this place serves Mexican food as we Americans never imagined it. Incredibly refined, subtle flavors and gorgeous presentation. I loved every course.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccZ2L28ZaRf2zVnanqddrxNghJC1FphAft5ScStaYjlSG_eMgw34ZCZ9f-Syq6RObWuQlZ_Sr6UTiCFnLCyp9HemgEOVWs83Mq8iNVEZQL_sIx_AT9jg9J56ls4sOFsdmBp7Tto-0pSxt/s1600/DSCN1629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccZ2L28ZaRf2zVnanqddrxNghJC1FphAft5ScStaYjlSG_eMgw34ZCZ9f-Syq6RObWuQlZ_Sr6UTiCFnLCyp9HemgEOVWs83Mq8iNVEZQL_sIx_AT9jg9J56ls4sOFsdmBp7Tto-0pSxt/s320/DSCN1629.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gino's pizza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Gino's East</b><br />
162 E Superior St<br />
Chicago, IL 60611<br />
<a href="http://www.ginoseast.com/">http://www.ginoseast.com/</a><br />
Iconic Chicago style pizza. There are many deep dish places to choose from, but this is my favorite. This was one of three stops for the GoalBusters Pizza Crawl, where we rented a stretch Hummer for 20 of our closest AFP friends and toured Gino's, the Signature Lounge at the top of the Hancock, and Lou Malnati's. Tons of fun.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQkta8YKPi0bS6y1E71wVXknunT_eLus2xIlsdoL6uAUjNa6P6ICBwut6TQD-T1-YT52jEXPqiocADkhMd39lA4spKxlQeLKNMfAzfQEGbcAm_CSAAsw1B6SurrzQ1rLt7MNHs1w_l7WB/s1600/20151116_182105-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="598" data-original-width="1600" height="119" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQkta8YKPi0bS6y1E71wVXknunT_eLus2xIlsdoL6uAUjNa6P6ICBwut6TQD-T1-YT52jEXPqiocADkhMd39lA4spKxlQeLKNMfAzfQEGbcAm_CSAAsw1B6SurrzQ1rLt7MNHs1w_l7WB/s320/20151116_182105-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Lounge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Signature Lounge at the 96th</b><br />
John Hancock Center<br />
875 N. Michigan Ave<br />
Chicago, IL 60611<br />
<a href="https://www.signatureroom.com/lounge/">https://www.signatureroom.com/lounge/</a><br />
Beautiful views from the 96th floor of the Hancock Center. Keep this in mind when you gripe about the drink prices. Strangely enough, the ladies' room has one of the best panoramas of the city.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAP8KKp7D3qKXIEux_BbJ6xksL351A1w0-otg2SXQXh4hMF1UVt0WROGtStmJUgj7UfftkupjNsCx3_s9tI95mmWvdQHUUbKV7Q5bn7Ae9Nlf3HJPbLF-Dwt59yvlusNm3Tkp2ic-k68Kj/s1600/2015-11-16+15.30.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAP8KKp7D3qKXIEux_BbJ6xksL351A1w0-otg2SXQXh4hMF1UVt0WROGtStmJUgj7UfftkupjNsCx3_s9tI95mmWvdQHUUbKV7Q5bn7Ae9Nlf3HJPbLF-Dwt59yvlusNm3Tkp2ic-k68Kj/s320/2015-11-16+15.30.20.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like they said.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Billy Goat Tavern</b><br />
430 N. Michigan Ave at Lower Level<br />
Chicago, IL 60611<br />
<a href="http://www.billygoattavern.com/">http://www.billygoattavern.com/</a><br />
This is the original location. It's below street level, and not refined at all. That's why you go. Yes, you get a cheezborger and a beer. And chips.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlumX5EJtanzKZ5j6OebSS01ojGhruR76E4vmec3GiECRnIoT3uQM1Ks4KUCtmSlOidqWah6Pl73AfgSN3-qdQpxY2yy6fq4q1W7Kpq1hinN2hqRpyGw_1jbJozwF9U_JKLHNzIiUA7DWG/s1600/2015-11-16+13.53.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlumX5EJtanzKZ5j6OebSS01ojGhruR76E4vmec3GiECRnIoT3uQM1Ks4KUCtmSlOidqWah6Pl73AfgSN3-qdQpxY2yy6fq4q1W7Kpq1hinN2hqRpyGw_1jbJozwF9U_JKLHNzIiUA7DWG/s320/2015-11-16+13.53.39.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Al's Italian Beef</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Al's Italian Beef</b><br />
Multiple locations throughout the Chicago area<br />
<a href="http://www.alsbeef.com/">http://www.alsbeef.com/</a><br />
It's another fast food icon in the Chicago area, and has been on many travel shows. It really is a great sandwich.<br />
<br />
<b>Alinea</b><br />
1723 N Halsted St<br />
Chicago, IL 60614<br />
<a href="https://www.alinearestaurant.com/">https://www.alinearestaurant.com/</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuSTSVaGz8HVswyHNvfT50QQ2ERGHPlagJoe-Sb-DXH_deLYIT1yhelmaSjP7QSb3oirpt8hZS6zuSn7R3tzkeSHRucNyM25BYxMRJ3Fd5OzcgM0xjjp6PeAVRyB254kKkZeZUUnLIFz67/s1600/2015-11-15+22.07.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuSTSVaGz8HVswyHNvfT50QQ2ERGHPlagJoe-Sb-DXH_deLYIT1yhelmaSjP7QSb3oirpt8hZS6zuSn7R3tzkeSHRucNyM25BYxMRJ3Fd5OzcgM0xjjp6PeAVRyB254kKkZeZUUnLIFz67/s320/2015-11-15+22.07.39.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many creative courses at Alinea, pre-reboot </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Bucket list experience. Truly. Totally worth the hype. I went prior to the big reboot of the concept, so I can't directly testify to the experience now, but I'm sure it's still top notch. Make sure you've made a payment recently on your credit card so you can load it back up here.<br />
<br />
Still haven't found my favorite hot dog place. Time to visit again.<br /><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjIEyjYeei_8G2CDoQNbzc9LphX-RFcyo-bfq3sXFA4oVB2YrJtj9tZzavlfgbw4iW-f1zFblDruiBDrigOavV4Uu7bn7W0cVWVNNaGsIZO_5AU7_BS-w5IWt36cvt_KLqQrgGE3EOVRK/s1600/20151115_233843-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="1600" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjIEyjYeei_8G2CDoQNbzc9LphX-RFcyo-bfq3sXFA4oVB2YrJtj9tZzavlfgbw4iW-f1zFblDruiBDrigOavV4Uu7bn7W0cVWVNNaGsIZO_5AU7_BS-w5IWt36cvt_KLqQrgGE3EOVRK/s320/20151115_233843-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dessert at Alinea </td></tr>
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Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-14256215321538039412017-10-26T06:06:00.005-07:002017-10-27T05:46:28.903-07:00Favorite Places in AmsterdamIt's early in the morning and I'm jet lagged, as I just got back from the <a href="http://www.resource-alliance.org/ifc/" target="_blank">International Fundraising Congress (IFC)</a>, produced by <a href="http://www.resource-alliance.org/" target="_blank">The Resource Alliance</a>. This conference is held every October in Noordwijk, The Netherlands, just outside of Amsterdam, and is a gathering of thought leaders and innovators in the charitable/philanthropic/NGO sector. This was only my second trip to The Netherlands, but I've already developed a short list of "must do" places in Amsterdam. So here are a few of my picks, from a total newbie tourist perspective!<br />
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<b>De Drie Fleshjes</b><br />
<a href="http://www.dedriefleschjes.nl/indexe.html">http://www.dedriefleschjes.nl/indexe.html</a><br />
Gravenstraat 18 (behind the New Church)<br />
1012 NM Amsterdam<br />
+31 (0)20 624 8443<br />
info@dedriefleschjes.nl<br />
<br />
Mon-Sat » 2:00 - 8:30 PM<br />
Sun » 3:00 - 7:00 PM<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m0!4v1509019736411!6m8!1m7!1sCAoSLEFGMVFpcE1wUzdCSGZBbVhNYnFTZFA2ZkVHN3hTcldmblM1dFh2TURULTA2!2m2!1d52.3741667!2d4.892221699999999!3f0!4f0!5f0.7820865974627469" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">360 photo by Jim Anderson</span><br />
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I think this is my favorite bar in the world. This is the place for jenever and beer. Please don't come in fussing about Sauvignon Blanc. David (in the picture above) has been our bartender three of the four times we were here, and he remembered us by visit two! He was very helpful about guiding us through the multiple styles of jenever and the history of the bar. Go old school and have oude jenever and a Heineken. You also must drink the jenever properly, as shown <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jenever">here</a>. This bar has been in operation since 1650, and holds claim to being the oldest bar in Amsterdam. While this place has been on many travel shows, it has never seemed crowded.<br />
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<b>Restaurant Haesje Claes</b><br />
<a href="http://www.haesjeclaes.nl/home/?lang=en">http://www.haesjeclaes.nl/home/?lang=en</a><br />
Spuistraat 273-275<br />
1012 VR Amsterdam<br />
Tel. +31 20 6249998<br />
<br />
Open 7 days a week, 12:00 H-24.00 H (Last kitchen orders at 22.00 H)<br />
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A post shared by Alice Ferris (@aliceferris) on <time datetime="2017-10-25T11:13:48+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 25, 2017 at 4:13am PDT</time></div>
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This was one of my favorite meals of this trip. Lively atmosphere and appropriately old setting for a solid Dutch meal. We started with herring and jenever, which was a great pairing to cut through the oiliness of the fish. We then moved on to the eel soup, which tastes strongly of the mustard and the smokiness of the eel--it had more of a meaty taste than fish. We split the shrimp krokketen, and then had two generous entrees: the marrow peas and the sauerkraut stamppot. These are definitely winter weather foods! Heavy, but in a comfort food way. The staff is very friendly and helpful with the menu if you have questions. Natalia, our server, was fun to banter with! Great food, service, and a good value.<br />
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<b>Cafe Loetje</b><br />
<a href="https://cafeloetje.loetje.com/?lang=en">https://cafeloetje.loetje.com/?lang=en</a><br />
Johannes Vermeerstraat 52<br />
1071 DT Amsterdam<br />
020-662 81 73<br />
<br />
Open 7 days a week from 10:00 a.m.<br />
Kitchen is open until 10:30 p.m.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ban_OJgl85b/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Alice Ferris (@aliceferris)</a> on <time datetime="2017-10-24T08:55:18+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 24, 2017 at 1:55am PDT</time></div>
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Another "light" lunch at this classic. Everyone on Yelp and Trip Advisor said to order one of the steaks. That was good advice. Their filets are prepared in butter, and you have your choice of just butter, the spicy version ("Bali") or the "de Roode Waard" version, which has onions, bacon, and chicken livers. We, of course, went all in, and ordered the "loaded" one, and it was delicious.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1ARDddl6mdkxpSNmibaYEWs5biKdbXllfJDbCVEsduuv4tlKkAGgiU0Zpa-TRv3wG_bHXf6uvRmEbVrPap9vkb0Ot-B04I1oAH7J5wM-r_zKoyGAhsyy0E9BhqTbPWsYGWEfw8LqZwbm/s1600/2017-10-23+18.47.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1ARDddl6mdkxpSNmibaYEWs5biKdbXllfJDbCVEsduuv4tlKkAGgiU0Zpa-TRv3wG_bHXf6uvRmEbVrPap9vkb0Ot-B04I1oAH7J5wM-r_zKoyGAhsyy0E9BhqTbPWsYGWEfw8LqZwbm/s320/2017-10-23+18.47.26.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalfsvlees krokketen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>FEBO</b><br />
<a href="https://www.febo.nl/">https://www.febo.nl/</a> (website is in Dutch only)<br />
Multiple locations around The Netherlands, hours vary<br />
<br />
These are old fashioned automats, and they serve fried nuggets of goodness. Krokketen are a big thing in The Netherlands: breaded, fried snacks with a meat and gravy filling. If you have exact change, usually 1.80-3 euros, you can get the snack from the vending machine. If you don't, that's okay, you can order at the counter and have your krokket made fresh.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSeCFGHtvim8bSl5RhA2t6wDpGoTnuaTJu63cZxPyWHy2eWiA49i6i9jaGM5Dfx4Udlm36NTXR-hKFpHHBl_V3Uy7KmqM1MkS07irkVRmwU9cmDES7hgSc57v6Vox8SviPN9HVUU46uDW/s1600/sampurna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="590" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSeCFGHtvim8bSl5RhA2t6wDpGoTnuaTJu63cZxPyWHy2eWiA49i6i9jaGM5Dfx4Udlm36NTXR-hKFpHHBl_V3Uy7KmqM1MkS07irkVRmwU9cmDES7hgSc57v6Vox8SviPN9HVUU46uDW/s320/sampurna.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rijstafel</td></tr>
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<b>Sampurna</b><br />
<a href="http://www.sampurna.com/">http://www.sampurna.com/</a><br />
Singel 498<br />
Amsterdam centrum<br />
tel.:+31(0) 20 625 32 64<br />
<br />
Open daily at 12:00<br />
<br />
I've been hunting for rijstafel, the Indonesian "rice table," which is a collection of small dishes served family style. We've been to three restaurants so far, and this one is the best. There are many more restaurants serving rijstafel in Amsterdam, so I'm sure there are other great ones, but I like this one. Atmosphere is cozy and the service was good.<br />
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<b>Cafe Bern</b><br />
<a href="http://www.cafebern.com/home-english/">http://www.cafebern.com/home-english/</a><br />
Nieuwmarkt 9<br />
1011 JR Amsterdam<br />
telephone +31 20 622 00 34 (from 3:00 pm)<br />
Open 7 days a week: 4:00 pm – 1:00 am<br />
kitchen: 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm<br />
<br />
One of the few places where I have no photos! This was a nice surprise in Nieuwmarket. They have a brief menu, but everyone is there for the fondue. The cheese fondue is decadently rich, as you would expect, but the surprise for me was the Steak Bern, which you cook at your table on a metal plate of Bearnaise sauce. So good. Mostly Dutch here, but they do have an English menu if you ask. Communal tables and a tight squeeze in this cafe, so don't bring a big bag!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjscVzEnH8SntHKMBID_aWGeGC97HEUQbzGAD8kgZzZho9fkQ21ZxCE0LWeuzITW8idwmwGS6R-wNdcI2pgs9JHEXIm3O4Q51Oh8s8XcP1cX9swo8vVjizsySPl25aNpanC9OwVvYy3NR/s1600/Pancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjscVzEnH8SntHKMBID_aWGeGC97HEUQbzGAD8kgZzZho9fkQ21ZxCE0LWeuzITW8idwmwGS6R-wNdcI2pgs9JHEXIm3O4Q51Oh8s8XcP1cX9swo8vVjizsySPl25aNpanC9OwVvYy3NR/s320/Pancakes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Number 11: Bananas, bacon and chile with added cheese</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Pancakes Amsterdam</b><br />
<a href="http://www.pancakes.amsterdam/">http://www.pancakes.amsterdam/</a><br />
Multiple locations, but we go to<br />
Centraal<br />
Prins Hendrikkade 48, 1012 AC Amsterdam<br />
Phone: +31 (0)20 820 42 40<br />
<br />
Open daily from 8:00 to 20:00<br />
<br />
Dutch pancakes are very thin and can be simple: traditional ones are just cheese, or ham and cheese, or a little bit of fruit. But, in the name of excess, we start piling on the toppings! My favorite it number 11, with bananas, bacon, and chiles. I added grated Dutch cheese this time and it was fabulous. This is a "card only" establishment, but tips are accepted in cash. It's also first come, first served, which sometimes makes the queue awkward, because if there is a party of 6 next in line, they will wait until a table for 6 is open, even if they have several tables for two available. If you find yourself behind a large party, it doesn't hurt to step up to the front and ask about a smaller table.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRGPnEqxmNMqv4r6gdr_YQOrU5rh8NCRghXRWfUW93WxpbwbbWPyNzyt2cTnsQbWDBweCesQVsBo8RmKjc9PaI_T5mmcC_vWwgWF6wB__5ztSjHgk0f-pneZdYjT2-arn7qVsqKzeNj5Q/s1600/2017-10-16+21.53.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRGPnEqxmNMqv4r6gdr_YQOrU5rh8NCRghXRWfUW93WxpbwbbWPyNzyt2cTnsQbWDBweCesQVsBo8RmKjc9PaI_T5mmcC_vWwgWF6wB__5ztSjHgk0f-pneZdYjT2-arn7qVsqKzeNj5Q/s320/2017-10-16+21.53.27.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veal Tonnato</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Restaurant Van Kerkwijk</b><br />
<a href="http://www.caferestaurantvankerkwijk.nl/eng/where_when.html">http://www.caferestaurantvankerkwijk.nl/eng/where_when.html</a><br />
Nes 41<br />
1012 KC Amsterdam<br />
+31 20 6203316<br />
<br />
Open 11:00-1:00 daily<br />
<br />
This is a charming little place near Dam Square with a spoken menu, so everything changes day to day. The servers are friendly and helpful, and the european style fare is a little bit lighter than the heavy Dutch food we spent most of the time eating.<br />
<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to adding to this list next year at IFC 2018!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post originally appeared on <a href="https://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2017/10/amsterdam.html" target="_blank">Alice's Restaurants</a>.</i></span>Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Amsterdam, Netherlands52.3702157 4.895167899999933152.2151142 4.5724443999999327 52.5253172 5.2178913999999335tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-14125144608775756962017-09-18T12:04:00.000-07:002017-09-18T12:04:10.789-07:00In memoriam: Ed from YumaI found out this morning that my Yuma food mentor, Ed Davis, aka "Ed in Yuma," aka "Ed Dibble," passed away this weekend.<br />
<br />
I first met Ed via <a href="https://www.chowhound.com/community" target="_blank">Chowhound</a>, back when it was a very simple, online foodie bulletin board. Yelp and Instagram didn't exist, so random people from around the world posted thoughts and suggestions about what and where to eat on this discussion group. Being new to Yuma in 2006, I figured I should check out the food scene, and the only person posting on a regular basis from Yuma was this guy, "Ed Dibble." I am embarrassed how long it took me to figure out the humor in his handle.<br />
<br />
I followed Ed's posts religiously. If he suggested a place, I would try to find it. I didn't find them all, but most of the ones that he suggested (that are still around) are now long time favorites.<br />
<br />
Since there was no way to direct message someone on Chowhound, I had to hint on posts a few times that I'd like to meet Ed someday. I thought maybe I'd just happen to run into him at some point. Since I work with <a href="http://www.kawc.org/" target="_blank">KAWC</a>, Yuma's public radio station, I'm not hard to find, and Ed started dropping hints on his posts that he knew who I was.<br />
<br />
Then, during one on-air pledge drive, Ed actually came to the studio! AND I WAS ON THE AIR! NOOOO! I missed my chance!<br />
<br />
Luckily, our mutual friend, Ellen, knew I was stalking him, and graciously set up dinner to connect us. We had a grand time meeting Ed and Tina, and I continued, after that, to stalk his food posts, through <a href="http://mmm-yoso.typepad.com/mmmyoso/yuma/" target="_blank">his blog</a>.<br />
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I am truly sad that I never got to have dinner with Ed at his favorite Chinese restaurant, Yummy Yummy. And that I never got to cook for him to make him some of my favorites.<br />
<br />
In his honor, here are my favorite Yuma restaurants that were originally from Ed's list. And I will make it a point on my next trip to try some new places and write about them.<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>I hope you're having a great banquet, wherever you are now, Ed. Godspeed, and bon appetit!</i></b><br />
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<hr />
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNHRq5_0N-jPtRUMzioD8AEIr3ghYT2AAHfgcqeTXL2oqL2KQq-7FkmHzJGTtfxddzMj4s6LTvHqb-3Tk2wzIBDf8xNyo-hQUzqqIw1Qpv0qkulxI37SXZPsW7zgMMGxvSYn0wABJxEmO/s1600/RCG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNHRq5_0N-jPtRUMzioD8AEIr3ghYT2AAHfgcqeTXL2oqL2KQq-7FkmHzJGTtfxddzMj4s6LTvHqb-3Tk2wzIBDf8xNyo-hQUzqqIw1Qpv0qkulxI37SXZPsW7zgMMGxvSYn0wABJxEmO/s200/RCG.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coconut Curry Shrimp at River City Grill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><a href="http://www.rivercitygrill.com/" target="_blank">River City Grill</a></b><br />
<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=to%20600%20W%203rd%20St%20Yuma,%20AZ,%20USA">600 W 3rd St Yuma, AZ</a><br />
<a href="http://www.rivercitygrill.com/">http://www.rivercitygrill.com/</a><br />
<br />
One of the nicest restaurants in Yuma, and owner Nan Bain is a huge supporter of public radio, particularly our station, <a href="http://www.kawc.org/" target="_blank">KAWC</a>. We've been eating here since our first visit to Yuma and have really eaten everything on the menu. My favorites are the roasted red pepper and tomato bisque, the coconut curry shrimp, the tequila snapper, and the pistachio crusted salmon or chicken. They are also a great option if you need vegan or gluten free options.<br />
<br />
<i>Previous post for River City Grill <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2013/09/RiverCityGrill.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i><br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-y-mariscos-juanitas-yuma" target="_blank">Tacos y Mariscos Juanita’s</a></b><br />
<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=to%20SW%20Corner%20of%20S%20Avenue%20A%20&%20W%208th%20St%20Yuma,%20AZ%2085364">SW Corner of S Avenue A & W 8th St Yuma, AZ 85364</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-y-mariscos-juanitas-yuma">https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-y-mariscos-juanitas-yuma</a><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1Zsg2TZo5qAYHyVZyzHH7VMpOeVQNWwaEyiBxkmSt5MaFuuuFwGmV18af8pQoTAWEwI7YOIfvhMtVhLTSDJVql_uUQRq7xOISpnm_KBhyphenhyphenyD8Nol0WOTsHgqtHw04mRpljj8J5bam-QOM/s1600/juanitas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1Zsg2TZo5qAYHyVZyzHH7VMpOeVQNWwaEyiBxkmSt5MaFuuuFwGmV18af8pQoTAWEwI7YOIfvhMtVhLTSDJVql_uUQRq7xOISpnm_KBhyphenhyphenyD8Nol0WOTsHgqtHw04mRpljj8J5bam-QOM/s200/juanitas.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juanita's Campechana</td></tr>
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<br />
Juanita's has the very best seafood cocktail in Yuma. Hands down, end of conversation. I love the campechana, which is the "everything" seafood cocktail, including shrimp, scallops, oysters, octopus and squid, and sometimes conch, depending on the day. The broth that the seafood rests in is the most delicious part. Add a little hot sauce, and it's a perfect meal on a sunny, but not too hot, day. Juanita's is a semi-permanent taco truck--it has a sign, outdoor seating, and rest rooms, but the truck drives home at the end of the day. It's also only open during daylight hours, because there's no outside lighting, and hours vary during the summer months. It's helpful if you know a teeny bit of Spanish, although on the weekends, the young man who typically is there expediting orders and busing tables can help with translation if needed. Bring cash.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fTDTE_uiJTxcU_U1wKlgYXCeAIY4tlE4doin1c3VkNsKlc6HHbamg67gxLUhiipOtJxZAgJk0CIfkPfmQ8e86hs2j1o5kL2z6mSlh6uo0FQbJhZ62GZkd8_Shz2rabUVNviOmt9nLgRW/s1600/Pepe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fTDTE_uiJTxcU_U1wKlgYXCeAIY4tlE4doin1c3VkNsKlc6HHbamg67gxLUhiipOtJxZAgJk0CIfkPfmQ8e86hs2j1o5kL2z6mSlh6uo0FQbJhZ62GZkd8_Shz2rabUVNviOmt9nLgRW/s200/Pepe2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese crisp at Los Manjares de Pepe II</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/los-manjares-de-pepe-ii-yuma" target="_blank">Los Manjares de Pepe II (Foothills Location)</a></b><br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/11274+S+Fortuna+Rd,+Yuma,+AZ+85367/@32.6681234,-114.4487683,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x80d6616ef3e86b09:0x4850fc5f68c32f3a" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;" target="_blank"><span itemprop="streetAddress" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">11274 S Fortuna Rd, </span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Yuma</span>, <span itemprop="addressRegion" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">AZ</span> <span itemprop="postalCode" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">85367</span></a><br />
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/los-manjares-de-pepe-ii-yuma">https://www.yelp.com/biz/los-manjares-de-pepe-ii-yuma</a></span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I used to go to the original location on 8th Street every trip for the Pepe Special, a tomatillo stewed pork. I still love the Pepe Special, but now I get it at their Foothills location, because it's 1) closer to the station, and 2) a little better, I think. Located at the very end of a strip mall, around the corner from the main stretch of the mall, this tiny restaurant produces excellent Mexican food. I am a big fan of the carnitas dinner as well as the cheese crisp, which I think is the best in Yuma.</span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
</address>
<b><a href="http://www.patioyuma.com/" target="_blank">The Patio at Desert Hills Golf Course</a></b><br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps?ion=1&espv=2&q=1245+W+Desert+Hills+Dr,+Yuma,+AZ+85365&rlz=1C1PRFE_enUS656US656&bav=on.2,or.r_cp.&biw=1600&bih=731&dpr=1&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj7157vmqHMAhUDTCYKHX_ODv8Q_AUIBigB" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;" target="_blank"><span itemprop="streetAddress" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1245 W Desert Hills Dr, </span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Yuma</span>, <span itemprop="addressRegion" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">AZ</span> <span itemprop="postalCode" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">85365</span></a><br />
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.patioyuma.com/">http://www.patioyuma.com/</a></span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-style: normal;">The restaurant at the Desert Hills Municipal Golf Course, worth the trip. The jalapeno margarita is incredible, and favorite starters are the chicharron, the bacon wrapped shrimp and the stuffed medjool dates. </span><a href="http://mmm-yoso.typepad.com/mmmyoso/2016/05/the-patio-at-desert-hills-golf-course-yuma-the-rest-of-the-story.html" style="font-style: normal;" target="_blank">Ed's post</a><span style="font-style: normal;"> is much more detailed than mine, with good pictures, since I can't find mine.</span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></address>
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<span style="font-style: normal;">Thanks for some great meals, Ed.</span></address>
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<span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></address>
Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-47956224417716274312016-07-25T11:16:00.001-07:002020-01-17T10:04:34.661-07:00Favorite Places in Flagstaff, Arizona<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3hBBR-SNGDuYL6fDUr1W-mbiEMe2ltaEE0H80a_w4BjBYHdFa4uH_L7TZc84Ia4JMVPEKnzL7F1SlxZrBz1tWXDE7GTJvm3ImyHtfCBvYhDuLv-xVPLQbj7b_fROBAE7tN2r6IZLBncX4/s1600/FLG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3hBBR-SNGDuYL6fDUr1W-mbiEMe2ltaEE0H80a_w4BjBYHdFa4uH_L7TZc84Ia4JMVPEKnzL7F1SlxZrBz1tWXDE7GTJvm3ImyHtfCBvYhDuLv-xVPLQbj7b_fROBAE7tN2r6IZLBncX4/s1600/FLG.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>UPDATED 1/17/20:</b> I'm on the road over 200 days a year, so in many respects, I'm a tourist in Flagstaff too! But even with that, I know a thing or two about Flagstaff, so here are my recommendations.<br />
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Here is also my <a href="https://www.yelp.com/collection/dp6BDOfPhTJ9aNInER7RKQ" target="_blank">Yelp collection for Flagstaff</a>, which gets updated more often.<br />
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<b><u>Restaurants</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.tinderboxkitchen.com/" target="_blank">Tinderbox Kitchen</a><br />
<a href="https://www.annexcocktaillounge.com/" target="_blank">Annex Cocktail Lounge</a></div>
<div>
34 S. San Francisco<br />
<span class="il">Flagstaff</span>, AZ 86001</div>
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My (very out of date) review is <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2011/12/tinderbox-kitchen-flagstaff-arizona.html" target="_blank">here</a>. They have three properties--Tinderbox Kitchen is a small, higher-end dining room, The Annex is a creative cocktail bar, and the Tourist Home Urban Market is a breakfast/lunch place. Owner Kevin Heinonen and his team are a very dedicated team!<br />
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<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiwv7LV6qDXAhWELmMKHaOFArwQFggnMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shiftflg.com%2F&usg=AOvVaw0HtqSnWsMya2SW1KLogY0D" target="_blank">Shift</a></div>
<div>
107 N San Francisco St #2<br />
Flagstaff, AZ 86001</div>
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Chefs Joe and Dara have created a lively little restaurant focusing on flavorful and beautifully plated tapas-like dishes.<br />
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<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwi1_b-866DXAhVU3mMKHSF_AvsQFggnMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcriollolatinkitchen.com%2F&usg=AOvVaw2Cl9BsmrEYc06sNh4BCeZX" target="_blank">Criollo</a></div>
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16 N San Francisco St<br />
Flagstaff, AZ 86001</div>
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A Latin American inspired menu with really good tostones (crispy, twice-fried plantains) and huevos con carne. I also like the jalapeno burger. </div>
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<a href="http://www.karmaflagstaff.com/" target="_blank">Karma Sushi</a></div>
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6 E Route 66</div>
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<span class="il">Flagstaff</span>, AZ 86001</div>
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<a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2013/09/karmaflagstaff.html" target="_blank">My review is here.</a></div>
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This is a higher-end sushi place, kind of Scottsdale meets <span class="il">Flagstaff</span>. In addition to sushi, I go for the tonkotsu ramen.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.hiroflag.com/" target="_blank">Hiro's Sushi</a></div>
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1312 S Plaza Way</div>
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<span class="il">Flagstaff</span> AZ 86001</div>
<div>
This is more functional sushi--not much atmosphere, but solid food and service, easier parking and a bit cheaper. This is our family night sushi.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://fatolivesflagstaff.com/" target="_blank">Fat Olives</a></div>
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2308 E Route 66</div>
<div>
<span class="il">Flagstaff</span> AZ 86004</div>
<div>
Neopolitan style pizza from a wood-burning oven and good pasta. John Conley, the chef-owner, is also an all-around great guy!</div>
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<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/satchmos-flagstaff" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/satchmos-flagstaff" target="_blank">Satchmo's Barbecue</a></div>
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2320 N 4th St</div>
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<span class="il">Flagstaff</span> AZ 86004</div>
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Great brisket and pulled pork, but in reality, I go for the tater tots. No, that's an exaggeration, but the tots are incredibly good.</div>
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<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/martannes-cafe-flagstaff-2" target="_blank">MartAnne's Burrito Palace</a></div>
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112 E Route 66</div>
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<span class="il">Flagstaff</span> AZ 86001</div>
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Go for the chilaquiles. Be prepared to wait in line.</div>
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And because I have space...</div>
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<b><u>Attractions</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://lowell.edu/" target="_blank">Lowell Observatory</a></div>
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1400 W Mars Hill Rd</div>
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<span class="il">Flagstaff</span> AZ 86001</div>
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Where Pluto was discovered! Check out the restored Clark Telescope. Open both day and night--I suggest doing both if you have time. I adore this place, and it's not just because I used to work there. It speaks to my nerdiness.</div>
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<a href="http://www.thearb.org/" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thearb.org/" target="_blank">The Arboretum at <span class="il">Flagstaff</span></a></div>
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Lots of activities here in the summer, and a great educational place to learn about native plants.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://musnaz.org/" target="_blank">Museum of Northern Arizona</a></div>
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A good way to get a sense of the indigenous cultures of the region.<br />
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<a href="https://www.snowbowl.ski/" target="_blank">Arizona Snowbowl</a><br />
I'm not a skier, but I do hit the Skyride in the summer. Ride the chair lift up Mount Humphries, but make sure to watch out for the effects of the altitude. As my son, Matthew, says, "Hydrate or die-drate!"</div>
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<b><u>Out of town attractions</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://www.nps.gov/index.htm" target="_blank">National Parks</a></div>
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We have four national parks within easy driving distance: Walnut Canyon, Sunset Crater, Wupatki and the Grand Canyon, of course. Get an Interagency Annual Pass and you'll get your money's worth right away. Instead of going to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, go east of Flagstaff and hit Walnut Canyon and Sunset Crater one day, Wupatki on the next, and enter the Grand Canyon via Cameron, Arizona and the East Rim. Cameron is the home of the <a href="https://www.camerontradingpost.com/" target="_blank">Cameron Trading Post</a>, which has a lot of tchotchkes and a good Navajo Hot Beef. </div>
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<a href="https://www.thetrain.com/" target="_blank">Grand Canyon Railway</a></div>
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Scenic railroad to the Canyon--worth doing at least once.</div>
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<a href="http://visitsedona.com/" target="_blank">Sedona</a> is also about 45 minutes away.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">This post first appeared on the <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.com/" target="_blank">Alice's Restaurants</a> blog. </span></i></div>
Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Flagstaff, AZ, USA35.1982836 -111.6513019999999935.094458100000004 -111.81266349999999 35.3021091 -111.48994049999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-85095980025116503132016-05-13T16:52:00.007-07:002016-05-13T17:02:56.915-07:00Favorite Places in New Orleans<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKpV2q_YjrZr6Rv87hu6NZvDkzEcoHnaph9mQ1J4GCy7N39ePVcrA_KtXWwyMP8oR9SE_rE0ThXzJ1KjvhydQjaQi3oegI2P0YJyJAODSM6yPPNCWkKO3ke37Q6v7KkctgIf21bE5Mx3z/s1600/chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKpV2q_YjrZr6Rv87hu6NZvDkzEcoHnaph9mQ1J4GCy7N39ePVcrA_KtXWwyMP8oR9SE_rE0ThXzJ1KjvhydQjaQi3oegI2P0YJyJAODSM6yPPNCWkKO3ke37Q6v7KkctgIf21bE5Mx3z/s320/chicken.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fried Chicken Platter at Emeril's</td></tr>
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This blog is my friend Jaye's suggestion, although my colleague, Steve, is headed to NOLA later this month. New Orleans is one of those places that you must visit at least once. Here are my faves from many trips over the years!<br />
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<a href="http://www.emerils.com/restaurant/1/Emerils-New-Orleans/">Emeril's</a><br />
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800 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans, LA 70130<br />
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Truth be told, I was terrified that I would be disappointed with this place. So many times, you go to the celebrity chef places and the hype does not match the experience. With Emeril's, I was not disappointed. The location is beautiful, service stellar, and food fantastic.</div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.chefjohnbesh.com/">Restaurant August and Lüke</a> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiihJmh0Y5NpynPBnZ-2StG_kT8YEw0D6Qor2ikoWSsLkjcpNIjXdldjtlNGP-kjXwClFCfpcT8pMkld6q3pf1PF5LJBMS04pyE_Nb-VkBBmMFzG_XWfjo36w1tAuB0mCHenP5_mW-BX7da/s1600/DSC04178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiihJmh0Y5NpynPBnZ-2StG_kT8YEw0D6Qor2ikoWSsLkjcpNIjXdldjtlNGP-kjXwClFCfpcT8pMkld6q3pf1PF5LJBMS04pyE_Nb-VkBBmMFzG_XWfjo36w1tAuB0mCHenP5_mW-BX7da/s320/DSC04178.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Bone Marrow at R'evolution</td></tr>
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August, 301 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxeoKZ7WWpXVhpc-ltq0MYun1S7Odcgwffq4XtuBmn5LT2vZgq_-Sve4X3SuZ8Lcocqogtu1-t8FLxh99TBUWDXoo5YoKgl9yuS9E5yr2ry7CrWgCiPGYZa70rmVuGNol9Iu3gnACENGH/s1600/Dooky+Chase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxeoKZ7WWpXVhpc-ltq0MYun1S7Odcgwffq4XtuBmn5LT2vZgq_-Sve4X3SuZ8Lcocqogtu1-t8FLxh99TBUWDXoo5YoKgl9yuS9E5yr2ry7CrWgCiPGYZa70rmVuGNol9Iu3gnACENGH/s320/Dooky+Chase.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch buffet at Dooky Chase</td></tr>
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<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheErSa8Th7nGU3AJvH6LNR0sbP99WMoFFz3L0hMvAw-czMZqEnZbRmDwBtdm64FPr6_X573qPfSX8yPXdfQSOxXV-9vI2Uj3lk_f_ReAx3xlLXFurL9yFgYbiL11bDcsCyF-CHDSaNNzEB/s1600/Gumbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>Lüke, 333 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130<br />
Part of Chef John Besh's restaurant group, August is the more formal older sibling of Lüke, the louder, brighter bistro. Both provided excellent service and well executed dishes. At August, the foie gras three ways was delicious, and at Lüke, incredibly good fried oysters and raw bar.<br />
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/a/goalbusters.net/home/fun-stuff/goog_1256851926577">Cochon Restaurant</a></div>
930 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130<br />
<div>
Great place to get small dishes to share, like cured meats, rabbit, crawfish pie, okra, and other down home Cajun cuisine in a modern, relaxed environment. They have a lot of local brews and truly strange cocktails. Do not try the beet juice cocktail. I don't know what I was thinking.</div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://www.revolutionnola.com/" target="_blank">Restaurant R'evolution</a><br />
777 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70130<br />
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Beautifully presented food, hip atmosphere and a more adventurous menu than most places in the French Quarter.<br />
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<a href="http://www.dookychaserestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Dooky Chase</a></div>
2301 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119<br />
<div>
Traditional soul food from the original celebrity chef of soul food. Mrs. Leah Chase visits the dining room regularly, and while we didn't get to talk with her, we did see her hovering during the lunch buffet. Darn good fried chicken.</div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.galatoires.com/home" target="_blank">Galatoire's</a></div>
209 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA 70130<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheErSa8Th7nGU3AJvH6LNR0sbP99WMoFFz3L0hMvAw-czMZqEnZbRmDwBtdm64FPr6_X573qPfSX8yPXdfQSOxXV-9vI2Uj3lk_f_ReAx3xlLXFurL9yFgYbiL11bDcsCyF-CHDSaNNzEB/s1600/Gumbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheErSa8Th7nGU3AJvH6LNR0sbP99WMoFFz3L0hMvAw-czMZqEnZbRmDwBtdm64FPr6_X573qPfSX8yPXdfQSOxXV-9vI2Uj3lk_f_ReAx3xlLXFurL9yFgYbiL11bDcsCyF-CHDSaNNzEB/s320/Gumbo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrimp Gumbo at Lil Dizzy's, photo by Jim Anderson</td></tr>
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<div>
I love this place and try to visit every time. It is classic, old school N'awlins fine dining. I love the souffled potatoes, turtle soup, and any of their fish or shrimp preparations. Guys must wear a jacket. Ask for the cafe brulot at the end of the meal.</div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.commanderspalace.com/" target="_blank">Commander's Palace</a></div>
<div>
1403 Washington Avenue New Orleans LA 70130<br />
THE place for Sunday Jazz Brunch. It's an elegant, classic, well-deserved destination restaurant. Save room for the bread pudding.</div>
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<br />
<a href="http://lildizzyscafe.net/" target="_blank">Lil Dizzy's Cafe</a><a href="http://lildizzyscafe.net/"></a><br />
1500 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116<br />
Thrilled to find this locals' place: Sunday brunch here is delicious, inexpensive, and you really get a peek into local life.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.erinrosebar.com/index2.html">Erin Rose</a> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8hjglS5GPtbvfE5X92BAqsRhyphenhyphentWepR_2W3k8kG1jmeXdww2N7ZfMNIGn9GW1qRad6L5l5c6qovR0134LfPX5bh3TA7eK6gemY5unKaUt0EdYYyg7G03VALo72UbLoIO_XtbiK2X3ycGA/s1600/ErinRose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8hjglS5GPtbvfE5X92BAqsRhyphenhyphentWepR_2W3k8kG1jmeXdww2N7ZfMNIGn9GW1qRad6L5l5c6qovR0134LfPX5bh3TA7eK6gemY5unKaUt0EdYYyg7G03VALo72UbLoIO_XtbiK2X3ycGA/s320/ErinRose.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erin Rose, photo by Jim Anderson</td></tr>
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<div>
811 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70112<br />A great local bar where you meet REAL LOCALS! Incredibly good value on drinks, especially since you're only one block off of Bourbon Street, and not a single neon blended drink to be found. Once when we visited, we met retired twins from Tennessee heading to Texas for NASCAR and a local parish Justice of the Peace who sang Irish songs. So cool.<br />
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<a href="http://cafedumonde.com/main.html">Cafe du Monde</a> </div>
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800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116<br />This is the place where EVERYONE goes to get beignets and chicory coffee. It is a bit of a tourist trap, but that doesn't make the beignets any less tasty. Word of warning, do NOT wear black to this place. You will be dusted with powdered sugar, no matter how careful you are. Also, coffee refills are NOT FREE so be careful when the server asks you if you want a refill. And bring cash.</div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mothersrestaurant.net/">Mother's</a> </div>
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401 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70130<br />Classic New Orleans for jambalaya, etouffee, red beans and po'boys. Expect a line at lunch time--just get in line, belly up to the counter and order some down home comfort food. My first time, I got the oyster po'boy but really wanted the combo platter, which is what Jim had. Since then, I seem to repeat the po'boy, but Jim usually repeats the combo, so it's all good. Sharing is caring.</div>
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<a href="http://hotelmonteleone.com/entertainment/carousel-bar/" target="_blank">Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone</a><a href="http://hotelmonteleone.com/entertainment/carousel-bar/"></a><br />
214 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130</div>
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Yes, it's been on a bazillion travel shows, but it's still pretty cool. Hard to get a seat at the actual bar, though, so be patient.</div>
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<a href="http://www.centralgrocerynola.com/" target="_blank">Central Grocery</a></div>
923 Decatur St., New Orleans, LA 70116</div>
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Stop here to get a muffuletta to take on the plane. (PS: Steve, the hot sauce shop is next to Central Grocery.)<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This post first appeared on the <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/">Alice's Restaurants</a> blog. All photos by me unless otherwise credited, usually to Jim Anderson because he's there eating with me.</span></i></div>
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Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0New Orleans, LA, USA29.951065799999991 -90.071532329.51111779999999 -90.7169793 30.391013799999993 -89.4260853tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-28639618795827021772016-05-07T16:46:00.001-07:002016-05-07T17:05:28.768-07:00Favorite places in the Washington DC area<div style="text-align: right;">
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My friend, Laura, and earlier, my friend, Josh, both asked for recommendations for the DC area. I gave each of them a far too long list of suggestions for far too few meals!<br />
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In no particular order, my favorite places to eat and drink in the DC area:<br />
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<a href="http://www.hayadams.com/washington-dc-bars" target="_blank">Off the Record at the Hay-Adams Hotel</a><br />
<div>
800 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20006<br />
What happens at the Hay-Adams is Off the Record. Go for large classic cocktails and clubby atmosphere.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtRdlrZBM5BLuA23WpvFvf_YdfkVrY63iuWaWI_GZixOkZAMB2nfJk2vhDbT-ozPTpnEzi5PGWOeP5YavumqznEmdTKlLPPP_P5No0EV4CO3KfSvs5nT_stgYwOpezbaUhKXvAIHK_zG2Y/s1600/IMG_20160316_183223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtRdlrZBM5BLuA23WpvFvf_YdfkVrY63iuWaWI_GZixOkZAMB2nfJk2vhDbT-ozPTpnEzi5PGWOeP5YavumqznEmdTKlLPPP_P5No0EV4CO3KfSvs5nT_stgYwOpezbaUhKXvAIHK_zG2Y/s320/IMG_20160316_183223.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">selection of courses from <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://minibarbyjoseandres.com/" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">minibar by José Andrés</a></span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://minibarbyjoseandres.com/" target="_blank">minibar and barmini by José Andrés</a><br />
855 E Street NW, Washington, DC 20004<br />
minibar is a bucket list restaurant. barmini is far more affordable to get a glimpse of what's going on at minibar. Go to barmini for a creative cocktail and some noshes; go to minibar for a once in a lifetime meal.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jaleo.com/crystal-city" target="_blank">Jaleo Crystal City</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYuBxfEBdz-6fwcq4tSAxs8PCVTK3F7_E6TZINkcKKjJbLn4IxHMxhvwGZHXuinn3sC5VcQiJAG1HS4_zrxiCe-76H6nD4iU673Gk-RbsYYuoQd_omA331LEO9I-vxs_QyVnWVaiPYtBHV/s1600/2016-03-27+20.31.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYuBxfEBdz-6fwcq4tSAxs8PCVTK3F7_E6TZINkcKKjJbLn4IxHMxhvwGZHXuinn3sC5VcQiJAG1HS4_zrxiCe-76H6nD4iU673Gk-RbsYYuoQd_omA331LEO9I-vxs_QyVnWVaiPYtBHV/s320/2016-03-27+20.31.56.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Various tapas from Jaleo</td></tr>
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2250-A Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202</div>
<div>
Another José Andrés concept, I prefer this location (and the Las Vegas Jaleo) to the other locations. I always order a jamon, the pan con tomate, and patatas bravas. Often I'll add in the pulpo, and maybe some liquid olives.<br />
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<a href="http://hotnjuicycrawfish.com/" target="_blank">Hot n' Juicy Crawfish</a><br />
2651 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008</div>
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Yes, it's a chain, but I like it. You have to be family or practically family to eat with me here, though. It's not pretty, but it is delicious.</div>
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<a href="http://unionmarketdc.com/" target="_blank">Union Market DC</a></div>
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1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002<br />
Great collection of local food and product vendors, and fun to graze for a leisurely lunch.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mitsitamcafe.com/home/default.asp" target="_blank">Mitsitam Cafe</a> at the <a href="http://nmai.si.edu/" target="_blank">National Museum of the American Indian</a><br />
4th St & Independence Ave SW</div>
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Skip right on past the "American" food station of chicken strips and burgers and browse the several different food stations representing various regions of indigenous cultures. I usually get the sampler plate, which includes your choice of four different side dishes from any region you like.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ebbitt.com/" target="_blank">Old Ebbitt Grill</a><br />
675 15th St NW, Washington DC 20005</div>
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Near the White House, this classic restaurant was long the hang out of politicos for long lunches. I think almost everyone here is a tourist now, but it still has a good classic vibe. They are famous for the Oyster Riot in November, and their oyster happy hour from 3-6 pm.<br />
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<a href="http://nopadc.com/" target="_blank">NoPa Kitchen + Bar</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/foodspotting-ec2/reviews/5301752/thumb_600.jpg?1426724566?1462662883" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/foodspotting-ec2/reviews/5301752/thumb_600.jpg?1426724566?1462662883" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lobster Cake Soup at Sushi Taro</td></tr>
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800 F Street, NW Washington, DC 20004</div>
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Hip place at the International Spy Museum, this is a good place for cocktails and appetizers after a day of exploring the Penn Quarter area.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sushitaro.com/" target="_blank">Sushi Taro</a><br />
1503 17th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036<br />
A healthy, but not long walk from DuPont Circle, this restaurant serves a beautiful omakase dinner, a Japanese prix fixe option.<br />
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<a href="http://www.russiahouselounge.com/" target="_blank">Russia House</a><br />
1800 Connecticut Ave NW DC 20009<br />
Great for happy hour and a overabundance of vodka choices. Caviar Mondays!<br />
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<a href="http://hanksoysterbar.com/" target="_blank">Hank's Oyster Bar</a><br />
1026 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314</div>
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I'm usually at the Old Town Alexandria location, where the bartenders are skilled and the oyster selection is great.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bistrotroyal.com/" target="_blank">Bistrot Royal</a><br />
1201 N. Royal St., Alexandria, VA 22314<br />
Charming little French restaurant near Old Town Alexandria with an affordable three course prix fixe menu every day.</div>
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<a href="http://www.lafromagerieonline.com/" target="_blank">La Fromagerie</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGLnbSQJCrN_DfH4CjN5Qo8-TTue6rcHD-mMLu8FLDNJOb5etce-hjj5WaQaGaU9Glh1YL3lIDduYlG2OlvYMIlgDiFGqnFmttR2Reh9OSTPvU9K8MNXpSo8eZoTW6MQwiZqbRdl3wsx-/s1600/Cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGLnbSQJCrN_DfH4CjN5Qo8-TTue6rcHD-mMLu8FLDNJOb5etce-hjj5WaQaGaU9Glh1YL3lIDduYlG2OlvYMIlgDiFGqnFmttR2Reh9OSTPvU9K8MNXpSo8eZoTW6MQwiZqbRdl3wsx-/s320/Cheese.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese and charcuterie with wine flight at La Fromagerie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
1222 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314<br />
Was not disappointed when I asked the staff to select cheese, meat and a wine flight for me.<br />
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<a href="http://www.hautedogsandfries.com/" target="_blank">Haute Dog and Fries</a><br />
610 Montgomery Street, Alexandria, VA 22314<br />
Any of their creative signature dogs are great, and they make an amazing lobster roll. There's also craft beer and milkshakes. What's not to love?<br />
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<a href="http://foodtruckfiesta.com/dc-food-truck-list/" target="_blank">Food Trucks</a> near L'Enfant Plaza Metro on Maryland Avenue SW</div>
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There are always a bunch of food trucks along this stretch on weekdays, and often on weekends too. Great for when you're hungry after exploring the nearby Smithsonian museums.<br />
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<a href="http://www.zaytinya.com/" target="_blank">Zaytinya</a><br />701 9th Street NW, Washington DC 20001 <br />
Yeah, another José Andrés restaurant. I have a foodie crush on José. It doesn't help that I once hosted the national pledge event for his now ended PBS series, <a href="http://www.pbs.org/food/shows/made-in-spain/" target="_blank">Made in Spain</a>. He was a charming in real life as he is on television. Jim Anderson and I had a great meal of Mediterranean mezze (small plates) here that is documented <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2012/01/long-list-favorite-eats-from-around-us.html" target="_blank">here</a>. We've since been back several times and it's always lively and great.<br />
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Enjoy!</div>
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<i>This post first appeared on <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/">Alice's Restaurants</a> blog. All photos by me.</i></div>
Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-80261620109066104742016-04-21T19:56:00.002-07:002017-10-26T04:21:57.972-07:00Favorite Haunts in Yuma, ArizonaSeeing <a href="http://mmm-yoso.typepad.com/mmmyoso/yuma/" target="_blank">Ed in Yuma</a> (a.k.a. Ed Dibble) yesterday reminded me that I have not posted about Yuma in a long time. My business partner, Jim Anderson, and I have been traveling to Yuma for over ten years, and we definitely have places that we must visit when we are in town. So here's the list!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNHRq5_0N-jPtRUMzioD8AEIr3ghYT2AAHfgcqeTXL2oqL2KQq-7FkmHzJGTtfxddzMj4s6LTvHqb-3Tk2wzIBDf8xNyo-hQUzqqIw1Qpv0qkulxI37SXZPsW7zgMMGxvSYn0wABJxEmO/s1600/RCG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNHRq5_0N-jPtRUMzioD8AEIr3ghYT2AAHfgcqeTXL2oqL2KQq-7FkmHzJGTtfxddzMj4s6LTvHqb-3Tk2wzIBDf8xNyo-hQUzqqIw1Qpv0qkulxI37SXZPsW7zgMMGxvSYn0wABJxEmO/s200/RCG.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coconut Curry Shrimp at River City Grill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><a href="http://www.rivercitygrill.com/" target="_blank">River City Grill</a></b><br />
<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=to%20600%20W%203rd%20St%20Yuma,%20AZ,%20USA">600 W 3rd St Yuma, AZ</a><br />
<a href="http://www.rivercitygrill.com/">http://www.rivercitygrill.com/</a><br />
<br />
One of the nicest restaurants in Yuma, and owner Nan Bain is a huge supporter of public radio, particularly our station, <a href="http://www.kawc.org/" target="_blank">KAWC</a>. We've been eating here since our first visit to Yuma and have really eaten everything on the menu. My favorites are the roasted red pepper and tomato bisque, the coconut curry shrimp, the tequila snapper, and the pistachio crusted salmon or chicken. They are also a great option if you need vegan or gluten free options.<br />
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<i>Previous post for River City Grill <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2013/09/RiverCityGrill.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i><br />
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<b><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-mi-rancho-yuma" target="_blank">Tacos Mi Rancho</a> (aka Tacos Mi Ranchito)</b><br />
<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=to%20188%20South%204th%20Avenue%20Yuma,%20AZ,%20United%20States">188 South 4th Avenue Yuma, AZ</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoAH2FOfJhyiFQSaf7-yGu8gdhRuFHNJsB4pn2NQS603kxC5c19r1NTWTV7uK4KUH1ZVwYZCLvXGo0ERKfrmOIDCGHi0cyQvRW5RF7-0lNImOYvAMY6UHJsYYjB3zggdn1ib0ZYyZJd-U/s1600/Tacos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfoAH2FOfJhyiFQSaf7-yGu8gdhRuFHNJsB4pn2NQS603kxC5c19r1NTWTV7uK4KUH1ZVwYZCLvXGo0ERKfrmOIDCGHi0cyQvRW5RF7-0lNImOYvAMY6UHJsYYjB3zggdn1ib0ZYyZJd-U/s200/Tacos.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tacos at Tacos Mi Rancho</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-mi-rancho-yuma">https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-mi-rancho-yuma</a><br />
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I love this place. I have difficulty eating tacos anywhere else. I would love to comment on the whole menu, but to be honest, I always order a Carnitas taco on corn tortillas and then one or two other a la carte items. I've had pretty much every taco on the menu, and they are all good, and inexpensive. I've also had the chile relleno, which is okay, but I prefer ones at other restaurants. I've also had their seafood cocktail, which is fine, but I prefer the ones at Juanita's food truck. It's really just about tacos, beer, chips and salsa for me here, and I love them for it. It's not a trip to Yuma for me without a stop to see the ladies at Tacos Mi Rancho!<br />
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<i>Previous post on Tacos Mi Rancho <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2012/03/tacos-mi-rancho-aka-tacos-mi-ranchito.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: Gone but not forgotten: </span></b><b><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/jack-and-rosies-steakhouse-yuma" target="_blank">Jack and Rosie's Steakhouse</a></b><br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/1551+W+5th+St,+Yuma,+AZ+85364/@32.7176718,-114.6412451,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x80d6f666e9135aef:0xd1649159e918bd18" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;" target="_blank"><span itemprop="streetAddress" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1551 W 5th St, </span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Yuma</span>, <span itemprop="addressRegion" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">AZ</span> <span itemprop="postalCode" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">85364</span></a><br />
<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/jack-and-rosies-steakhouse-yuma">https://www.yelp.com/biz/jack-and-rosies-steakhouse-yuma</a><br />
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This is old school. Do NOT go here for a fancy steakhouse, or for high end atmosphere. Come here for huge traditional cocktails (nothing in a blender, please), a big steak, and a 1960's small town supper club vibe. I usually get a very large manhattan (up, in a large martini glass), and a ribeye medium rare or the fried chicken livers. Soup of the day, a piece of garlic bread and a simple iceberg salad are included. The house dressing is a french blue cheese dressing; you can get other dressings, but why? I realized as I wrote this that I don't have any decent photos from Jack and Rosie's, because it's dark and the food is pretty simply plated. Good excuse for a return visit next time, not that I need one. There are some reviewers on Yelp that clearly do not appreciate the vibe of this place--just pop more money in the jukebox and ignore the haters while you eat your perfect steak.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-y-mariscos-juanitas-yuma" target="_blank"><br /></a></b>
<b><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-y-mariscos-juanitas-yuma" target="_blank">Tacos y Mariscos Juanita’s</a></b><br />
<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=to%20SW%20Corner%20of%20S%20Avenue%20A%20&%20W%208th%20St%20Yuma,%20AZ%2085364">SW Corner of S Avenue A & W 8th St Yuma, AZ 85364</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-y-mariscos-juanitas-yuma">https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacos-y-mariscos-juanitas-yuma</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1Zsg2TZo5qAYHyVZyzHH7VMpOeVQNWwaEyiBxkmSt5MaFuuuFwGmV18af8pQoTAWEwI7YOIfvhMtVhLTSDJVql_uUQRq7xOISpnm_KBhyphenhyphenyD8Nol0WOTsHgqtHw04mRpljj8J5bam-QOM/s1600/juanitas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1Zsg2TZo5qAYHyVZyzHH7VMpOeVQNWwaEyiBxkmSt5MaFuuuFwGmV18af8pQoTAWEwI7YOIfvhMtVhLTSDJVql_uUQRq7xOISpnm_KBhyphenhyphenyD8Nol0WOTsHgqtHw04mRpljj8J5bam-QOM/s200/juanitas.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juanita's Campechana</td></tr>
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<br />
Juanita's has the very best seafood cocktail in Yuma. Hands down, end of conversation. I love the campechana, which is the "everything" seafood cocktail, including shrimp, scallops, oysters, octopus and squid, and sometimes conch, depending on the day. The broth that the seafood rests in is the most delicious part. Add a little hot sauce, and it's a perfect meal on a sunny, but not too hot, day. Juanita's is a semi-permanent taco truck--it has a sign, outdoor seating, and rest rooms, but the truck drives home at the end of the day. It's also only open during daylight hours, because there's no outside lighting, and hours vary during the summer months. It's helpful if you know a teeny bit of Spanish, although on the weekends, the young man who typically is there expediting orders and busing tables can help with translation if needed. Bring cash.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fTDTE_uiJTxcU_U1wKlgYXCeAIY4tlE4doin1c3VkNsKlc6HHbamg67gxLUhiipOtJxZAgJk0CIfkPfmQ8e86hs2j1o5kL2z6mSlh6uo0FQbJhZ62GZkd8_Shz2rabUVNviOmt9nLgRW/s1600/Pepe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fTDTE_uiJTxcU_U1wKlgYXCeAIY4tlE4doin1c3VkNsKlc6HHbamg67gxLUhiipOtJxZAgJk0CIfkPfmQ8e86hs2j1o5kL2z6mSlh6uo0FQbJhZ62GZkd8_Shz2rabUVNviOmt9nLgRW/s200/Pepe2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese crisp at Los Manjares de Pepe II</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/los-manjares-de-pepe-ii-yuma" target="_blank">Los Manjares de Pepe II (Foothills Location)</a></b><br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/11274+S+Fortuna+Rd,+Yuma,+AZ+85367/@32.6681234,-114.4487683,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x80d6616ef3e86b09:0x4850fc5f68c32f3a" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;" target="_blank"><span itemprop="streetAddress" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">11274 S Fortuna Rd, </span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Yuma</span>, <span itemprop="addressRegion" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">AZ</span> <span itemprop="postalCode" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">85367</span></a><br />
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/los-manjares-de-pepe-ii-yuma">https://www.yelp.com/biz/los-manjares-de-pepe-ii-yuma</a></span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></address>
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I used to go to the original location on 8th Street every trip for the Pepe Special, a tomatillo stewed pork. I still love the Pepe Special, but now I get it at their Foothills location, because it's 1) closer to the station, and 2) a little better, I think. Located at the very end of a strip mall, around the corner from the main stretch of the mall, this tiny restaurant produces excellent Mexican food. I am a big fan of the carnitas dinner as well as the cheese crisp, which I think is the best in Yuma.</span></address>
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Those were the old standby's. Now for some newcomers to our list:</address>
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<b><a href="http://www.patioyuma.com/" target="_blank">The Patio at Desert Hills Golf Course</a></b><br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps?ion=1&espv=2&q=1245+W+Desert+Hills+Dr,+Yuma,+AZ+85365&rlz=1C1PRFE_enUS656US656&bav=on.2,or.r_cp.&biw=1600&bih=731&dpr=1&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj7157vmqHMAhUDTCYKHX_ODv8Q_AUIBigB" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;" target="_blank"><span itemprop="streetAddress" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1245 W Desert Hills Dr, </span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Yuma</span>, <span itemprop="addressRegion" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">AZ</span> <span itemprop="postalCode" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">85365</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.patioyuma.com/">http://www.patioyuma.com/</a></span></address>
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<span style="font-style: normal;">A new iteration of the restaurant at the Desert Hills Municipal Golf Course, this time the food is good! (I know I have photos somewhere, but I can't find them.) The jalapeno margarita is incredible, and favorite starters are the chicharron, the bacon wrapped shrimp and the stuffed medjool dates. I haven't eaten an entree here yet, because Jim and I usually get a collection of apps!</span></address>
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<span style="font-style: normal;"><a href="http://mmm-yoso.typepad.com/mmmyoso/2016/05/the-patio-at-desert-hills-golf-course-yuma-the-rest-of-the-story.html" target="_blank">Ed's post</a> is much more detailed than mine.</span></address>
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<span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></address>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLOrLK1tZ-rkiAMWA3MXa2t7UdoVYztnbj5w-0BXvHjBv2LDnA3mQ9-C3W9GzzqsQsGsxlZGyqI45zM9Dq52TQnyzwKJnhS06Uo2RrrDrF2crvi0ModLOKn4POjK4qCaramr55TKwMTYu/s1600/dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLOrLK1tZ-rkiAMWA3MXa2t7UdoVYztnbj5w-0BXvHjBv2LDnA3mQ9-C3W9GzzqsQsGsxlZGyqI45zM9Dq52TQnyzwKJnhS06Uo2RrrDrF2crvi0ModLOKn4POjK4qCaramr55TKwMTYu/s200/dog.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sooo Cali Dog from the Dog Haus</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://www.doghaus.com/" target="_blank">Dog Haus</a></b><br />
<a href="https://www.google.com/maps?q=1651+S+4th+Ave+Yuma,+AZ+85364&rlz=1C1PRFE_enUS656US656&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi41teknKHMAhUMTSYKHYLfAvkQ_AUIBygB" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;" target="_blank"><span itemprop="streetAddress" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1651 S 4th Ave, </span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Yuma</span>, <span itemprop="addressRegion" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">AZ</span> <span itemprop="postalCode" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">85364</span></a><br />
<address itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span itemprop="postalCode" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://www.doghaus.com/">http://www.doghaus.com/</a></span></address>
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The only chain on my list, and a newcomer to Yuma. Came here at the suggestion of a couple people at work, including Travis, whom we trust has good taste. We were pleasantly surprised by the variety of sausages available and the creative toppings. The Sooo Cali dog has arugula, spicy basil aioli, crispy onions, avocado, and tomato, and was delicious, if not tidy. Also, they have tater tots, which make almost everything better, and bacon, which definitely makes everything better.<br />
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<i>By the way, check out <a href="http://mmm-yoso.typepad.com/mmmyoso/yuma/" target="_blank">Ed's blog</a>. He's my go-to source for new places in Yuma.</i><br />
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<i>This post first appeared on <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alice's Restaurants</a> blog.</i></div>
Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Yuma, AZ, USA32.6926512 -114.6276915999999932.2646157 -115.2731386 33.1206867 -113.98224459999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-32089951964176728982016-04-07T09:05:00.000-07:002016-04-21T19:57:09.417-07:00Favorite Places in Winston-Salem, North Carolina<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOzFX2K9pm0dRJ8WnYO3BGqcXZfDVfx-Fvu8imZWK9_Jorh-xYVuZHzUQ1wLEtUvf7zZHt4uJoiWQ8Fg3ERu99n_yPTtwb7X_dOc4rjzupp_jklWjZLWDy5jMI5iMP1YSKUC_Lmi-ouew/s1600/PorkRinks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pork Rinds at Sweet Potatoes" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOzFX2K9pm0dRJ8WnYO3BGqcXZfDVfx-Fvu8imZWK9_Jorh-xYVuZHzUQ1wLEtUvf7zZHt4uJoiWQ8Fg3ERu99n_yPTtwb7X_dOc4rjzupp_jklWjZLWDy5jMI5iMP1YSKUC_Lmi-ouew/s320/PorkRinks.jpg" title="Pork Rinds at Sweet Potatoes" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork Rinds at Sweet Potatoes</td></tr>
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My pal, Nick, asked me for recommendations today for Winston-Salem, knowing that I was just there for work. Since it's top of mind, here are my favorites!<br />
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<a href="http://www.sweetpotatoes.ws/" target="_blank">Sweet Potatoes</a><a href="http://www.sweetpotatoes.ws/"></a><br />
529 North Trade Street<br />
Winston-Salem, NC</div>
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Very well executed southern comfort food. Owners Stephanie Tyson and Vivian Joiner pour their hearts into this place, and the food reflects their passion. The fried pork rinds are made fresh to order, so they are still crackling when they are delivered to the table. My favorites are the fried chicken, smothered ANYTHING, the stuffed trout, and the sides plate--three sides of your choice.</div>
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<a href="http://www.milnerfood.com/" target="_blank">Milner's American Southern Cuisine</a></div>
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630 S. Stratford Rd<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLMwP_SYcKJq3de3AzluQpuGEuGHrO2RgmzUt50M8MB7szGWXaZgzwXvQHFlRG9xBcbAXt3i4CLr5LNrCLI0FROoySEekLEqbbGTvHcHXUYZrvoJOaSQ8LTxnPlwJvfDcyfJd8ycS_rBqC/s1600/FriedChicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLMwP_SYcKJq3de3AzluQpuGEuGHrO2RgmzUt50M8MB7szGWXaZgzwXvQHFlRG9xBcbAXt3i4CLr5LNrCLI0FROoySEekLEqbbGTvHcHXUYZrvoJOaSQ8LTxnPlwJvfDcyfJd8ycS_rBqC/s320/FriedChicken.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milner's Fried Chicken</td></tr>
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Winston-Salem, NC</div>
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One of the nicer places in Winston-Salem. Beautiful small plates if you want to dine on a variety of appetizers; I also love their fried chicken.</div>
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<a href="http://www.foothillsbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Foothills Brewery</a></div>
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638 West Fourth St.<br />
Winston-Salem, NC</div>
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Awesome fried pickles, extremely generous sampler pours, and whiskey flights!</div>
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<a href="http://www.bibsdowntown.com/" target="_blank">Bib's Barbecue</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bibsdowntown.com/"></a>575 West 5th Street<br />
Winston-Salem, NC</div>
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The owner/pitmaster, Mark Little, plays a mean harmonica and knows how to smoke meat. Love the brisket here.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAiqaIBWmDFPhAn1kvwAxiaPRQFFtlVZhtaBWVXJyh9kVVXwxHs6AvjVPKgRm4LdEQiFPR2gTn7hfW6dX44_QPYKPxDQAx8BLX7DP7xAnty0hXZewQYEMi6i-pSwoRREOpVvXfF9yDVFR/s1600/Foothills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAiqaIBWmDFPhAn1kvwAxiaPRQFFtlVZhtaBWVXJyh9kVVXwxHs6AvjVPKgRm4LdEQiFPR2gTn7hfW6dX44_QPYKPxDQAx8BLX7DP7xAnty0hXZewQYEMi6i-pSwoRREOpVvXfF9yDVFR/s320/Foothills.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foothills Sampler Flight (photo by Jim Anderson)</td></tr>
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<a href="http://caminobakery.com/" target="_blank">Camino Bakery</a></div>
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310 West Fourth Street</div>
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Winston-Salem, NC</div>
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Beautifully delicious pastries. And owner Cary Clifford is one of the nicest people in Winston-Salem. Check out their <a href="https://www.instagram.com/caminobakery/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> feed to drool.</div>
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Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Winston-Salem, NC, USA36.099859599999988 -80.24421635.894594599999991 -80.566939499999989 36.305124599999985 -79.9214925tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-80248137192031648562013-10-10T12:00:00.000-07:002013-10-10T12:00:03.795-07:00Meat and Potatoes, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://girllikestoeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/w-signage-glen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://girllikestoeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/w-signage-glen.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Girllikestoeat.com</td></tr>
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Surprisingly, Pittsburgh is turning into one of my frequently visited cities. Good thing they have a burgeoning food scene that goes beyond the <a href="http://primantibros.com/home.html" target="_blank">Primanti Brothers</a> stereotype of food in Pittsburgh. Meat and Potatoes (the restaurant) is becoming one of my standbys.<br />
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<u><b>Experience</b></u><br />
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Meat and Potatoes is attached to the lobby of a theater downtown, so it's really active on show nights. Pretty loud, dark and generally buzzing.<br />
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<u><b>Cuisine</b></u><br />
It goes without saying that you probably shouldn't be a vegetarian if you're coming here. But you're not required to eat a big steak. While they have a good selection of cuts on the menu, our groups have generally stuck to the appetizers and snacks <a href="http://meatandpotatoespgh.com/menus/dinner_menu.pdf" target="_blank">menu</a>.<br />
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Some of the features:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barrel Aged Manhattan</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poutine</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fried Brussels Sprouts</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Salty Pig Flatbread</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fried Chicken Livers</td></tr>
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They also have Devils on Horseback and Fried Pickles! The menu is an update of old school cocktail party/dinner party food, I think.<br />
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<u><b>Booze</b></u><br />
Good selection of "mixologist" type <a href="http://meatandpotatoespgh.com/menus/drink_menu.pdf" target="_blank">drinks</a>, ranging from classics to cocktails inspired by classics.<br />
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<b><u>Summary</u></b><br />
21st century cocktail scene inspired by the classics.<br />
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<b><u>Location</u></b><br />
649 Penn Avenue<br />
Pittsburgh, PA 15222<br />
412-325-7007<br />
<a href="http://meatandpotatoespgh.com/index.html">http://meatandpotatoespgh.com/index.html</a><br />
Foodspotting Visual Menu: <a href="http://www.foodspotting.com/places/187875-meat-potatoes-pittsburgh">http://www.foodspotting.com/places/187875-meat-potatoes-pittsburgh</a><br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Meat+%26+Potatoes,+Penn+Avenue,+Pittsburgh,+PA&aq=0&oq=Meat+and+po&sll=40.443123,-80.001175&sspn=0.011023,0.026157&vpsrc=0&t=h&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=&ll=40.443126,-80.001175&spn=0.006295,0.006295&iwloc=A&output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br />
<small><a href="https://www.google.com/maps?f=q&source=embed&hl=en&geocode=&q=Meat+%26+Potatoes,+Penn+Avenue,+Pittsburgh,+PA&aq=0&oq=Meat+and+po&sll=40.443123,-80.001175&sspn=0.011023,0.026157&vpsrc=0&t=h&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=&ll=40.443126,-80.001175&spn=0.006295,0.006295&iwloc=A" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small>Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Pittsburgh, PA, USA40.440624799999988 -79.99588640000001840.24723929999999 -80.318609900000013 40.634010299999986 -79.673162900000023tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-151547513383438732013-09-08T21:51:00.000-07:002013-09-08T21:51:16.999-07:00Karma Sushi Bar and Grill, Flagstaff, Arizona<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/02/98/36/89/filename-interior2-jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/02/98/36/89/filename-interior2-jpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karma interior from Tripadvisor.com</td></tr>
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I remember when Karma Sushi first opened thinking, "Wow, this is a pretty fancy-schmancy sushi place for Flagstaff. I hope the sushi is good." Happily, it is.<br />
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<u><b>Experience</b></u><br />
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Karma is a non-traditional sushi restaurant, more aligned with the American upscale, lounge-type sushi restaurant. It is usually very busy on weekend evenings, filled with younger parties on dates or "friends night out."<br />
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<u><b>Cuisine</b></u><br />
There are a TON of rolls on this <a href="http://karmaflagstaff.com/main-menu/" target="_blank">menu</a>. Lots of creative ones, even though I think there are too many with cream cheese. (One of my pet peeves is cream cheese in sushi.) It's also the only place in town to get traditional ramen, which I love. The appetizers are "Japanese tapas" and also provide a nice spin on traditional flavors. The fish is always fresh, and the servings tend to be generous. I also love that you can get fresh wasabi here--the flavor of the grated root is so much more delicate than the powder. It's worth the upcharge.<br />
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Side note, it really tickled me to see the Black Cat Roll on the menu, which pays tribute to one of the prior tenants of this space, the Black Cat Cafe. Mike Purcell, who was a generous contributor to several nonprofit organizations with which I was previously affiliated, was the owner of the Black Cat Cafe. While I'm not sure he ate sushi, I'm sure he would appreciate Chef/Owner Steven Scully's tribute to his restaurant.<br />
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Some of my faves on the menu:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hamachi (yellowtail) Hand Roll (by request)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mRTi0hRJ7yjQzybTF3EQHxnecnI815vKH5W-VmApDlwmb3mtHiS5r1hgpTcqdYFPpUqwRVtiDJWaMCpz1P81zxO5GHy2s__8kRRZXUBZVLy0J0IDbzRR1WeFzYrUxALFRkG6Kjuey4Nj/s1600/DSC02916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mRTi0hRJ7yjQzybTF3EQHxnecnI815vKH5W-VmApDlwmb3mtHiS5r1hgpTcqdYFPpUqwRVtiDJWaMCpz1P81zxO5GHy2s__8kRRZXUBZVLy0J0IDbzRR1WeFzYrUxALFRkG6Kjuey4Nj/s320/DSC02916.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork Ramen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQ1ZDoGkBy9DPQTZ3VGQ2UEQqEPZE6dRM7h4CeTxXfUr8KA3jCtqwqsoacSU9odMvautUKh8ImQYGQYfzl9ddnplXgXXSo4D3A65bOu4gxWqY0Tq9sN9Bn3ZwjIV1YJ6wCFxHRAZCzjxL/s1600/DSC01012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQ1ZDoGkBy9DPQTZ3VGQ2UEQqEPZE6dRM7h4CeTxXfUr8KA3jCtqwqsoacSU9odMvautUKh8ImQYGQYfzl9ddnplXgXXSo4D3A65bOu4gxWqY0Tq9sN9Bn3ZwjIV1YJ6wCFxHRAZCzjxL/s320/DSC01012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch Bento</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCAdWZeHXE9tcV2Dn0TT5F4NZvPSm7M7IakfhBiLJx6Fl6UGsEHnG0Bk6oxo_v1f88c9oW2DlVm2HJ6UQbodIAUY_m47ziG2mmSVmhHxzZdluFRwJsiwIVwkcckNzghVcR_YNP81d3aE-/s1600/DSC01017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCAdWZeHXE9tcV2Dn0TT5F4NZvPSm7M7IakfhBiLJx6Fl6UGsEHnG0Bk6oxo_v1f88c9oW2DlVm2HJ6UQbodIAUY_m47ziG2mmSVmhHxzZdluFRwJsiwIVwkcckNzghVcR_YNP81d3aE-/s320/DSC01017.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshly grated wasabi and ginger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnB3M3T-5HNq07M9GPG29FkS1c73Z_feXdEOjs_BSyCm-VUUpi1gLdp66UDUifuhipv6Qx8sUaihf0YUYxaOFHvHS0gX55Xxl4utomiPj1MHxUVVCSdVhNHgTOWa_j7BamhmmiIHTbskM/s1600/DSC09361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnB3M3T-5HNq07M9GPG29FkS1c73Z_feXdEOjs_BSyCm-VUUpi1gLdp66UDUifuhipv6Qx8sUaihf0YUYxaOFHvHS0gX55Xxl4utomiPj1MHxUVVCSdVhNHgTOWa_j7BamhmmiIHTbskM/s320/DSC09361.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sake (Salmon) Sashimi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0XS_nAY9wJtyD3ccB7LtBN4iQHqQ9_mGwRVBXv8Okz2b4Sb-QD6u549kMfosG_A0OExhZevv8Eb8GQuXI-zdNfAGf_7Ugsnq0avYfrwaIXzfWs2hYJOtyuZWPUU2UtSEUdH4D9vlmcnY/s1600/DSC09363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0XS_nAY9wJtyD3ccB7LtBN4iQHqQ9_mGwRVBXv8Okz2b4Sb-QD6u549kMfosG_A0OExhZevv8Eb8GQuXI-zdNfAGf_7Ugsnq0avYfrwaIXzfWs2hYJOtyuZWPUU2UtSEUdH4D9vlmcnY/s320/DSC09363.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maguro (Tuna) Sashimi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUUX2DBFgLf4-3bAza3RSi7o7MoZJAWaDOu6kCqsGwirusszSDmgt_dDNRf3Ho8WUfUJGjsrNn3Dv9cB7fvqLHiG5GayzHAqtr82kUoY2BMM2pL_MyyOCNYyUxFLLD7hfkYrOcoTmGhT1m/s1600/DSC09368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUUX2DBFgLf4-3bAza3RSi7o7MoZJAWaDOu6kCqsGwirusszSDmgt_dDNRf3Ho8WUfUJGjsrNn3Dv9cB7fvqLHiG5GayzHAqtr82kUoY2BMM2pL_MyyOCNYyUxFLLD7hfkYrOcoTmGhT1m/s320/DSC09368.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uni (sea urchin)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNJJL4jzYDdhtLrbOfBN8oqTVl92thpZVhclT6geRqhJjHoGltgCyxFrQTbKkUCVi9Smu6AQqu04E79iW6JzIX0MsRHE8-NMEu_c-LA2XuESaZOdVf4GRjMLr3H-ssDIM2mZAh7v-4nIj/s1600/DSC09452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNJJL4jzYDdhtLrbOfBN8oqTVl92thpZVhclT6geRqhJjHoGltgCyxFrQTbKkUCVi9Smu6AQqu04E79iW6JzIX0MsRHE8-NMEu_c-LA2XuESaZOdVf4GRjMLr3H-ssDIM2mZAh7v-4nIj/s320/DSC09452.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tai (Red Snapper) Nigiri</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NVWDvf5B9OSOT7GQRyDmIw8oQTU13BsMbUtJ5u7lC2naeVNG45mNqpPjRk0XIk4qDy7ZSSG82IMKvbFz7b3ibzx5Lc1-4ujw-kE6unZMf3SaNSSeB-U7Tbg1T4RbrZqiJq1fXPG7tR9s/s1600/IMAG0805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NVWDvf5B9OSOT7GQRyDmIw8oQTU13BsMbUtJ5u7lC2naeVNG45mNqpPjRk0XIk4qDy7ZSSG82IMKvbFz7b3ibzx5Lc1-4ujw-kE6unZMf3SaNSSeB-U7Tbg1T4RbrZqiJq1fXPG7tR9s/s320/IMAG0805.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sashimi Combo for One</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<u><b>Booze</b></u><br />
Lots of creative cocktails here, but most of them tend to be on the fruity and sweet side, which I don't think is a good match for the fish. Pretty basic wine selection, and a small sake menu.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Summary</u></b><br />
Big city sushi place in a small town.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Location</u></b><br />
6 E Route 66<br />
Flagstaff AZ 86001<br />
(928) 774-6100<br />
<a href="http://karmaflagstaff.com/">http://karmaflagstaff.com/</a><br />
Foodspotting Visual Menu: <a href="http://www.foodspotting.com/places/231004-karma-flagstaff">http://www.foodspotting.com/places/231004-karma-flagstaff</a><br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="300" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Karma+Sushi+Bar+Grill,+Flagstaff,+AZ&aq=0&oq=karma&sll=34.168218,-111.930907&sspn=12.258427,26.784668&t=h&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=&ll=35.197729,-111.648753&spn=0.00526,0.006437&z=16&output=embed" width="300"></iframe><br />
<small><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=embed&hl=en&geocode=&q=Karma+Sushi+Bar+Grill,+Flagstaff,+AZ&aq=0&oq=karma&sll=34.168218,-111.930907&sspn=12.258427,26.784668&t=h&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=&ll=35.197729,-111.648753&spn=0.00526,0.006437&z=16" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small>Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622675648809016360noreply@blogger.com0Flagstaff, AZ, USA35.2013516 -111.63924935.0975261 -111.8006105 35.3051771 -111.47788750000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-23144410688758573522013-09-03T23:24:00.000-07:002013-09-03T23:24:03.078-07:00River City Grill, Yuma, Arizona<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5LAPQOgLQd60b0DZLN3aIDK6qWycmd0oWOMoW80X6qLWoUo7kbzFXYcSi3PxoTsyd7k3R8mSNJNLR4pAu-yfLkv0BPHxvMgZ18NHEUjE8SecGkaeK8PbZbmdfzfAuT0bhibk6bjeI09sy/s1600/interior-in-the-evening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5LAPQOgLQd60b0DZLN3aIDK6qWycmd0oWOMoW80X6qLWoUo7kbzFXYcSi3PxoTsyd7k3R8mSNJNLR4pAu-yfLkv0BPHxvMgZ18NHEUjE8SecGkaeK8PbZbmdfzfAuT0bhibk6bjeI09sy/s320/interior-in-the-evening.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River City Grill interior, from TripAdvisor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've been traveling with my business partner, Jim, to Yuma since 2006, and we've been dining here since practically our first visit. <a href="http://www.rivercitygrillyuma.com/index.html" target="_blank">River City Grill</a> is one of Yuma's finest restaurants (and it happens to be within walking distance of the <a href="http://bwcoronado.com/" target="_blank">Best Western Coronado Motel</a>, which provides our accommodations. How convenient!)<br />
<br />
<u><b>Experience</b></u><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
This is one of the hippest places in Yuma that doesn't try to be too hip. In addition to the colorful and eclectic inside dining room, there's a lovely patio for outdoor dining in winter months.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
<u><b>Cuisine</b></u><br />
There is a great selection of fish and shellfish on the <a href="http://www.rivercitygrillyuma.com/menus.html" target="_blank">menu</a>, as well as a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options. The portions are very generous--frequently I'd be just fine with an appetizer as an entree. I wouldn't say that they stick to a particular cuisine here; I think the primary motivator is that everything on the menu is something that Executive Chef and co-owner Nan Bain would eat herself. Lucky for us, Nan has exceptional taste. :-)<br />
<br />
Some of my faves:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid99MsgbNujtA7i2cLmOgPi-yWtgSe_pyeNKL__frBzfG9nshmrP1r8rIcw1IrWBCpvQBcytnIVRcvd1jeyiN1dWz2kI4y4NpmdqhSlr8KkaArenOHtz-98oZvRD0cRd89noiFGUG6SHb5/s1600/DSC01101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid99MsgbNujtA7i2cLmOgPi-yWtgSe_pyeNKL__frBzfG9nshmrP1r8rIcw1IrWBCpvQBcytnIVRcvd1jeyiN1dWz2kI4y4NpmdqhSlr8KkaArenOHtz-98oZvRD0cRd89noiFGUG6SHb5/s320/DSC01101.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Spinach Salad<br />
fresh spinach w/gorgonzola, walnuts & cranberries w/ a raspberry vinaigrette<br />
(this is actually Jim's favorite)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCwK_CYHcIH2NVd-ShDOAaYB7uW1l3FilbVFe9yZIoWqgtpjhmCAjdFLy4w1-A-mmiysBxIFGpaJnckzp84gqDteGdEHhU5AWH8vRCxIuiIXNa71t0eOaFiF5UjXFig1umm9F7GQ-SFKH/s1600/DSC01107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCwK_CYHcIH2NVd-ShDOAaYB7uW1l3FilbVFe9yZIoWqgtpjhmCAjdFLy4w1-A-mmiysBxIFGpaJnckzp84gqDteGdEHhU5AWH8vRCxIuiIXNa71t0eOaFiF5UjXFig1umm9F7GQ-SFKH/s320/DSC01107.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">ROASTED TOMATO & RED PEPPER BISQUE<br />
with gorgonzola crouton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxpqg197iVSk4w4IVLqel5tfwXjvfk1l3a1tXg47-czcB5kxJUs20M1gWJ0s2EeOzCQTlP_HKdqhgUL334dVJcWBq8c9gxCEZ7apxMvVyJSQ2qnwvUADOZBGEXoAu0oKJi3ZrgIyQhW7A/s1600/DSC01110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqxpqg197iVSk4w4IVLqel5tfwXjvfk1l3a1tXg47-czcB5kxJUs20M1gWJ0s2EeOzCQTlP_HKdqhgUL334dVJcWBq8c9gxCEZ7apxMvVyJSQ2qnwvUADOZBGEXoAu0oKJi3ZrgIyQhW7A/s320/DSC01110.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ahi Tuna Starter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqnc16fL9NwWTRCq9m7R5cG7clzBryov3j6-YrvzC2uzyBpn_DX719sfQDZ0fGB8pu4pM_JvODzjOxCllTH5dYS4W-FFjIcMDzlqNEaAjDOuAG17UERNAHq90PvRmV9fQXqM_go5n6JAN/s1600/DSC01118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqnc16fL9NwWTRCq9m7R5cG7clzBryov3j6-YrvzC2uzyBpn_DX719sfQDZ0fGB8pu4pM_JvODzjOxCllTH5dYS4W-FFjIcMDzlqNEaAjDOuAG17UERNAHq90PvRmV9fQXqM_go5n6JAN/s320/DSC01118.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curried Mussels in Thai Broth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8_ZH-mXH4xT2Ez5MLlewvn558AL4pURc6Pd2E9rU2vPVYpTfa5gqevyIwYKvm3elE4UO2bQiDtuqlGidbsXRuxZ7fenU43UFSxP6tgAuU6gbcHf_Vl5X-_6hAtLqNRP0jciwnKNS06qw/s1600/DSC02499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8_ZH-mXH4xT2Ez5MLlewvn558AL4pURc6Pd2E9rU2vPVYpTfa5gqevyIwYKvm3elE4UO2bQiDtuqlGidbsXRuxZ7fenU43UFSxP6tgAuU6gbcHf_Vl5X-_6hAtLqNRP0jciwnKNS06qw/s320/DSC02499.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">VIETNAMESE SPRING ROLLS <br />
w/ mint, mango, rice noodles, peanuts & spicy sauce </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIarYQCgY71whF6VlVmwLDCsGX0o5_3646rhjxW89hSrDMTmaqVCK_uCChKSe-nVd_gSTd1l8jI0ZF5YOTsBdn9fi9sZkX9KEsXPzb3lB__v8QQ9dfls-fTx1BO9263R9x92dY4lY0CK6/s1600/DSC02570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIarYQCgY71whF6VlVmwLDCsGX0o5_3646rhjxW89hSrDMTmaqVCK_uCChKSe-nVd_gSTd1l8jI0ZF5YOTsBdn9fi9sZkX9KEsXPzb3lB__v8QQ9dfls-fTx1BO9263R9x92dY4lY0CK6/s320/DSC02570.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">TEQUILA SNAPPER<br />
red snapper, rice, black beans, fresh salsa & roasted chile corn sauce</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<u><b>Booze</b></u><br />
This is one of the better stocked restaurant bars in town, and generally there are servers who know how to mix most basic and classic cocktails.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Summary</u></b><br />
Oasis of upscale dining for the "not yet ready for sunset dinners" demographic.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Location</u></b><br />
600 W 3rd Street<br />
Yuma, AZ 85364<br />
(928) 782 - 7988<br />
<a href="http://www.rivercitygrillyuma.com/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.rivercitygrillyuma.com/index.html</a><br />
Foodspotting Visual Menu: <a href="http://www.foodspotting.com/places/262891-river-city-grill-yuma" target="_blank">http://www.foodspotting.com/places/262891-river-city-grill-yuma</a><br />
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<small><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=embed&hl=en&geocode=&q=600+W.+3rd+Street+Yuma,+AZ+85364++phone:+(928)+782+-+7988&aq=&sll=34.168218,-111.930907&sspn=11.480217,26.784668&t=h&ie=UTF8&hq=600+W.+3rd+Street+Yuma,+AZ+85364++phone:+(928)+782+-+7988&hnear=&radius=15000&cid=3060109343643730878&ll=32.721624,-114.627228&spn=0.010831,0.012875&z=15&iwloc=A" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small>Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14674687441518229692noreply@blogger.com0Yuma, AZ, USA32.6926512 -114.6276915999999932.2646157 -115.2731386 33.1206867 -113.98224459999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-65234983449267099972012-09-16T17:41:00.000-07:002012-09-16T17:51:26.603-07:00Elote Cafe, Sedona, Arizona<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the Kings Ransom <a href="http://www.kingsransomsedona.com/sedona-restaurant.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a></td></tr>
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If I have a guest visiting and they are willing to drive a little bit for dinner, I try to take them to Elote Cafe in Sedona, which has rightfully earned the reputation of being one of the best restaurants in northern Arizona.<br />
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<u><b>Experience</b></u><br />
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Located at the <a href="http://www.kingsransomsedona.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kings Ransom Sedona Hotel</a>, you can tell that this used to be a much more modest restaurant until former Scottsdale star chef Jeff Smedstad decided to take root here. They emphatically do not take reservations: it's first come, first served, starting at 5 pm. During busy times, the wait can be 2 hours, but on weekdays, I have usually waited 30 minutes to an hour. While you wait, you can get a margarita or other libation, munch on their tasty spiced popcorn, and look out over the beautiful pool, if the weather is nice. Be patient, and you will be rewarded.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<u><b>Cuisine</b></u><br />
For guests who have never been to a "real" Mexican restaurant and have only had the experience of generic, Americanized chains, this cuisine will be a revelation. Kind of like "comfort food" has been transformed to an upscale experience in recent years, Elote Cafe takes traditional Mexican dishes and elevates them. Dishes cover several regions of Mexico and everything I've had on the modest sized menu is delicious!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The namesake dish, Elote: Fire roasted corn with spicy mayo, lime and Cotija cheese. I got the recipe and it doesn't taste the same when I make it.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Chile Carnitas: Slow-roasted all natural pork shoulder served with Green Chile sauce and Green Chile corn fritters
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqC9wBctZRqr1URhLQ3PEFRrNsFn6MtUD2puXUK8GQOt1x5ZsZLnzlGLb73wCzDZAr9ZHnLI_DgWwaqx_1F_Ib5XUALgfNanNuJvX_JqNRjQ1ahe27FbwF5iuPAFULwn1VmL021pzZRyh/s1600/DSC00514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqC9wBctZRqr1URhLQ3PEFRrNsFn6MtUD2puXUK8GQOt1x5ZsZLnzlGLb73wCzDZAr9ZHnLI_DgWwaqx_1F_Ib5XUALgfNanNuJvX_JqNRjQ1ahe27FbwF5iuPAFULwn1VmL021pzZRyh/s320/DSC00514.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled Scallops:
Served with Grandma’s corn cake and Mole Verde</td></tr>
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<u><b>Booze</b></u><br />
They have an extensive tequila list and knowledgeable bartenders who will guide you through a tequila tasting if you like. They also have creative margaritas and a good selection of beers.<br />
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<b><u>Summary</u></b><br />
Elegant Mexican cuisine among the red rocks. Definitely worth the wait for a table.<br />
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<b><u>Location</u></b><br />
Elote Cafe<br />
771 State Route 179<br />
Sedona, AZ 86336<br />
(928) 203-0105<br />
<a href="http://www.elotecafe.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.elotecafe.com/</a>
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Foodspotting Visual Menu: <a href="http://www.foodspotting.com/places/127073-elote-cafe-sedona">http://www.foodspotting.com/places/127073-elote-cafe-sedona</a><br />
<br />
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<br />Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14674687441518229692noreply@blogger.com0Sedona, AZ, USA34.8697395 -111.760989634.817628500000005 -111.8399536 34.9218505 -111.6820256tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-62135298547161384162012-03-08T22:54:00.001-07:002020-07-11T17:48:51.971-07:00Tacos Mi Rancho (aka Tacos Mi Ranchito), Yuma, Arizona<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgARvKhCmOcOTouhNSv3wNbaqec5BzU51MDl4kyqWVFiFprofKndXTdve5mZPKNkt4Jym4SHd1NP9EfEHrHE63wMAl6s6324IOpXaeY-tZhjBEVRbmSvB8eYrH0f-V4X5gn_Axz0FvJmE/s1600/tacosmirancho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgARvKhCmOcOTouhNSv3wNbaqec5BzU51MDl4kyqWVFiFprofKndXTdve5mZPKNkt4Jym4SHd1NP9EfEHrHE63wMAl6s6324IOpXaeY-tZhjBEVRbmSvB8eYrH0f-V4X5gn_Axz0FvJmE/s320/tacosmirancho.jpg" width="320" /></span></a>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Exterior, photo from Yahoo</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's not a trip to Yuma for
<a href="http://www.goalbusters.net/" target="_blank">GoalBusters</a> without
a meal at
<a href="http://www.foodspotting.com/places/263132-tacos-mi-ranchito-yuma" target="_blank">Tacos Mi Rancho</a>. Located right next to our home away from home, the
<a href="http://bwcoronado.com/" target="_blank">Best Western Coronado</a>,
Tacos Mi Rancho has very tasty tacos and a good selection of Mexican beers. We
like the "little Mexico" feeling of this place, and the fact that we can gorge
ourselves on tacos for almost no money. The first time we went here, we
ordered one of every taco on the menu. Our server thought us a little strange,
which we are.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Experience</span></b></u><br />
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzNzrIDylGQ61iEt63-lMqYLIkksVNs_BVXYu1wqM7_jYGv3jFBgU3u7JvMIusiMMe4Gesnokp5n6q3hD-FVtYQ6C4ETftLRZS8KpMOsdSEikpYi2YokueKjlzrup2pFcwX3EQFkldrRI/s1600/diningroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzNzrIDylGQ61iEt63-lMqYLIkksVNs_BVXYu1wqM7_jYGv3jFBgU3u7JvMIusiMMe4Gesnokp5n6q3hD-FVtYQ6C4ETftLRZS8KpMOsdSEikpYi2YokueKjlzrup2pFcwX3EQFkldrRI/s320/diningroom.jpg" width="320" /></span></a>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Back dining room, photo from Yahoo</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The small, L-shaped dining room is decorated with Mexican kitsch typical of a
family run restaurant. Find a seat and one of the very prompt servers will
bring you water, chips and salsa almost immediately. The service is usually
very quick and attentive enough. The menu has a collection of the usual combo
platters, but we tend to order a la carte. There is a very inexpensive senior
menu, though, for the hordes of winter visitors who come to Yuma between
November and March every year, and at lunch time, anyone can order from the
senior menu.</span><br />
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Cuisine</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It's called "Tacos" Mi Rancho for a reason. Get a taco. Get a few. The
majority of their tacos are "street" style, served simply with the meat of
your choice, onions, shredded cabbage and cilantro. They are best on the corn
tortillas, which are two tortillas to each taco. They often pile so much
filling onto the taco that you can split it between the two tortillas. Each
taco costs under two dollars!</span><br />
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivnCNhBkDwdfTEjLAzawnt_HsTiu6z3s8vrx2kB9yr6DC02q_USnqHw4uQ-VdonVy0Fl8imzW4U4hRBgJgmR3m4Qhc99ISSlp-j58qLdNQ3b9uJaKT32d5OjlbjTq6ErQB4jbYEdLjae4s/s1600/thumb_600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivnCNhBkDwdfTEjLAzawnt_HsTiu6z3s8vrx2kB9yr6DC02q_USnqHw4uQ-VdonVy0Fl8imzW4U4hRBgJgmR3m4Qhc99ISSlp-j58qLdNQ3b9uJaKT32d5OjlbjTq6ErQB4jbYEdLjae4s/s320/thumb_600.jpg" width="320" /></span></a>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Carnitas Taco and Lengua Taco</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My favorite fillings are carnitas (tender, roasted pork), lengua (beef
tongue), chicharron (stewed pork rind), and asada (seasoned stewed beef). Jim
(my usual travel companion to Yuma) also likes the chorizo (pork sausage) and
al pastor (roasted beef).</span><br />
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu33J3_1MbnaOVGhoRav1Gir6-cqq2yL2kl1GiFKJfa0KZWlWDu_f-ci3r0Bnyb8fanP11AOgsib2KLCCpRJ0I-arGi1gUURlpzfIGczMIbpUTLeIztjZJnNGnD0m90eRuEuAGcguC4eI_/s1600/TMR_BBQ_Chorizo+(2)+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu33J3_1MbnaOVGhoRav1Gir6-cqq2yL2kl1GiFKJfa0KZWlWDu_f-ci3r0Bnyb8fanP11AOgsib2KLCCpRJ0I-arGi1gUURlpzfIGczMIbpUTLeIztjZJnNGnD0m90eRuEuAGcguC4eI_/s1600/TMR_BBQ_Chorizo+(2)+-+Copy.jpg" /></span></a>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Carnitas and Chorizo Tacos (photo by Jim Anderson)</span>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM98fWwXmvgr6rTDeihftjRvSuiyQkwATSJpG6rkRM-k85qrQo4LxJ8qVKb8WwMCKhtnb0gYLy8s3WUolswbXMRmTo8SP8sRz5QY4T1zUjaTUqVEPuTGT8pKK6disfkwIPIEsPJa1q5mdn/s1600/thumb_600+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM98fWwXmvgr6rTDeihftjRvSuiyQkwATSJpG6rkRM-k85qrQo4LxJ8qVKb8WwMCKhtnb0gYLy8s3WUolswbXMRmTo8SP8sRz5QY4T1zUjaTUqVEPuTGT8pKK6disfkwIPIEsPJa1q5mdn/s320/thumb_600+(2).jpg" width="320" /></span></a>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Machaca Burrito with Green Chile Sauce (photo by Jim Anderson)</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We also like the machaca burrito smothered in green chile sauce, the chile
relleno, the folded or rolled beef tacos, and the strawberry churros, which
are freshly made on site and served warm.</span><br />
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwOY-5Pnnyc4ASGULqy5-Hjhso7V5kjqsxA4Yy5lr8_Dd8bt6RjOQPlIORbdEr0kxyn_XwFNbygK6I0N9hS2EOHxAbIIYFWCC9dq1Kvmb4zrgZC0GBS-_BSoAAycM9tJ6kcjzpZs12S0pc/s1600/thumb_600+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwOY-5Pnnyc4ASGULqy5-Hjhso7V5kjqsxA4Yy5lr8_Dd8bt6RjOQPlIORbdEr0kxyn_XwFNbygK6I0N9hS2EOHxAbIIYFWCC9dq1Kvmb4zrgZC0GBS-_BSoAAycM9tJ6kcjzpZs12S0pc/s320/thumb_600+(3).jpg" width="320" /></span></a>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Strawberry Churros (photo by Jim Anderson)</span>
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Booze</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Mexican beer is the way to go. They have a pretty good selection of bottled
beers, including Bohemia, which is my favorite. Sometimes they have Bohemia
Amber. In addition to Bohemia and some other Mexican labels, they have the
usual suspects of Tecate, Dos Equis and Corona.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Summary</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Great place for real tacos for very little money. I don't feel like I'm back
in Yuma until I eat here!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Location</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Tacos Mi Rancho/Tacos Mi Ranchito</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">188 S 4th Avenue</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yuma, Arizona 85364</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(928) 783-2116</span><br />
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Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14674687441518229692noreply@blogger.com0Yuma, AZ, USA32.6926512 -114.627691632.4788432 -114.9435486 32.9064592 -114.31183460000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-30497794045013554072012-01-09T01:03:00.001-07:002016-05-07T16:57:37.369-07:00A Long List: Favorite Eats from around the US<b><i>Updated 5/7/2016</i></b><br />
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One of my many goals in 2012 is to transfer all of the "Alice's Restaurant Picks" from the <a href="http://www.goalbusters.net/" target="_blank">GoalBusters</a> website to this blog with detail and photos. But in the meantime, here's the list of almost everything that was on the site, minus <a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2011/12/tinderbox-kitchen-flagstaff-arizona.html" target="_blank">Tinderbox Kitchen</a>, which already has its entry. Bon appetit!<br />
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<u><i><b>Arizona</b></i></u><br />
<i style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"><b>Cave Creek AZ: <a href="http://www.binkleysrestaurant.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Binkley's</a></b></i><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;"> This is one of the most creative restaurants in Arizona! The parade of amuse bouche was incredible, and the presentation of all the dishes spectacular. Imagine a dish that lights up from below to highlight the colors of the food, and you'll get the idea. The tasting menu is definitely the way to go, and plan on spending several hours and tons of money.<br /> </span><br />
<b><i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN:</span></span> </i></b><b><i>Chambers AZ: <a href="http://local.yahoo.com/info-20169999-apple-dumplin-restaurant-chambers" target="_blank">Apple Dumplin Restaurant</a> </i></b>When we're traveling to St. Michaels and Sanders, Arizona, we usually end up with at least one stop at the Apple Dumplin, although we've only had the apple dumpling itself two times. At exit 333 on Highway 191 North, the Apple Dumplin is the place where the locals hang out. We've seen police officers, medical staff, tribal officials, teachers, and more taking up spots at the western themed tables and staying long after their food is consumed. Jim's favorite is the Navajo Sugarfoot, which is a huge piece of frybread filled with taco meat and smothered in green chile gravy. It does seem that whenever Jim goes to the Navajo Nation, he only eats food with gravy on it.<br />
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<b><i>Flagstaff AZ: <a href="http://www.karmaflagstaff.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Karma Sushi</a> </i></b>Great atmosphere and creative sushi in this locally owned establishment. Stephen Scully has done an excellent job of bringing fresh fish and high quality ingredients to Flagstaff's Japanese restaurant choices. A highlight here is that you can get grated raw wasabi, rather than the usual powdered wasabi--the real stuff has a richer flavor and milder heat. The Karma Karpaccio and the Tuna Tataki are delish.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b>Flagstaff AZ: <a href="http://diabloburger.com/Diablo_Burger/home.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Diablo Burger</a></b></i> Small, locally owned and operated burger place that uses beef sourced from Diablo Trust ranches, the Flying M and the Bar T Bar. It's a cash only place tucked into the back of Heritage Square. The fries are awesome, perfectly crisp and seasoned with an herb blend that includes rosemary. My fave burger is the Cheech, which is topped with guacamole, pepper jack cheese and fresh jalapenos. (I'm a bit obsessed with fresh--not pickled--jalapenos on burgers. See Kykotsmovi and Second Mesa for other examples.) All their burgers are served on toasted and DB branded English muffins and with a side salad. I've also had the Blake burger and the Vitamin B burger, also tasty. Eli, who's been at the counter twice when I've visited, is very helpful in guiding your choices if you're a newbie. We also met a bunch of Dutch tourists there once--one of the girls said, "The whole 'Dutch treat' thing is wholely American. When I go out on a date, the guy pays!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Flagstaff AZ: <a href="http://www.satchmosaz.com/satchmos/Menu.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Satchmo's</a> </span>A very small place that serves great pulled pork sandwiches. Gumbo and jambalaya are also pretty tasty. They have a pretty cool mural in the courtyard outside which makes you almost forget that you're right next to a busy street. My son loves that they have tater tots as a side--so do I! Now serving beer too, which is the perfect beverage for their slow cooked meats. If they have the ribs (which isn't always--when they run out, they're out), get them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Flagstaff AZ: <a href="http://www.patothai.com/home.html" target="_blank">Pato Thai</a> </span>There are many Thai choices in Flagstaff for some unknown reason, but this one is my favorite. Love the Tom Kai Gai.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Gila Bend AZ: <a href="http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/456113" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Outer Limits Cafe at the Space Age Lodge</a> </span>Eat in a space ship! But go after the lunch rush--they seem to spend a little more time preparing the food after about 2 pm. When they take their time, the broaster fried chicken and the chicken fried steak are...out of this world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><b><i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN:</span></span> </i></b><a href="http://www.kykotsmovi.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Kykotsmovi AZ</a>: The Hungry Bear</span> When they have the Hopi Hot Beef on special, get it--it's fry bread with roast beef, gravy, mashed potatoes and a green chile on top. Yes, you can get this anytime at the Hopi Cultural Center, but it's a little different at the Hungry Bear. You can also make your own in Window Rock, as long as you don't tell them it's the "Hopi" hot beef. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Peoria AZ: </i></b><a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/22/763045/restaurant/Phoenix/Hope-Kee-Peoria" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Hope Kee Hong Kong Style Restaurant at Lee Lee Supermarket</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> We never would have thought there would be a good, sit down restaurant inside a grocery store. But Hope Kee is definitely unusual, serving a broad selection of Chinese barbecued meats, very fresh (out of the case next door!) seafood, and seasonal specials like sauteed snow pea leaves, which I hadn't seen since Taiwan. The servers also like to tease people who spend too much time on their cell phones at meals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Phoenix AZ: </i></b><a href="http://www.barriocafe.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Barrio Cafe</a><b><i> </i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chiles en Nogada are a seasonal specialty here that is available September through April or so: "Roasted poblano pepper stuffed with chicken, onions,garlic, pecans, apples, pears and apricots finished with a delicate almond sauce and pomegranates." YUM. Tableside guacamole here has pomegranate seeds sprinkled on top and the flan is incredibly rich and dense. Fred Solop's doppleganger was our waiter.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br />Phoenix AZ: <a href="http://azentertain.com/phoenix/restaurants/frybreadhouse.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">The Fry Bread House</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> When you need a plate size piece of fried dough with spicy red or green chile stew, this is the place to be. Located near downtown Phoenix, you get a very hearty meal and get to experience a Southwestern specialty.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br />Phoenix AZ:</i></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><a href="http://www.durantsaz.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><b><i>Durant's</i></b></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> This is old school, baby. With dark paneled rooms, large booths, and appetizer selections like sauteed chicken livers, you come here for steak or fish and a martini. We saw Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio here, dressed in a elegant suit and surrounded by other tough looking guys in suits. Their motto says it all "Good friends, great steaks and the best booze are the necessities of life."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN:</span></span> Prescott AZ: <u>American Jazz Grill 129 1/2</u></i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Maurice is our favorite server in Prescott. Tall, imposing, and with a European accent of unconfirmed origin, Maurice takes good care of you, timing your courses and making good recommendations. After the chef took escargot off the menu, we lobbied Maurice to bring it back. We always get the escargot now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Prescott AZ: </i></b><a href="http://www.hassayampainn.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Peacock Room at the Hassayampa Inn</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Two words: Monte Cristo. This is our favorite, served with a jalapeno jelly. Awesome. I also adore the coffee, which is made from a special concentrate that makes the coffee incredibly smooth and never bitter.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Rock Springs, AZ: </i></b><a href="http://www.rockspringscafe.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Rock Springs Cafe </a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, it's about the pie, but it's also about live music on Sunday afternoons/evenings. Cecil and the Boys were playing the day we visited--Cecil is 83, the "twins" are 76 and the youngest members of the band were in their early 60's. Seems appropriate for old school country western.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b style="font-style: italic;">Scottsdale AZ: </b><a href="http://www.eddiematneys.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Eddie's House</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Eddie Matney is totally cool. He's also a diehard public television supporter, which is how I met him. His son is about the same age as mine, so when Matthew and I stopped by for dinner one night, it was a pleasant surprise to see that Eddie's son was having a birthday party on the patio. We felt right at home, which is pretty much the theme of the restaurant. In season, Eddie also has a New England Lobster Bake special that is an incredible deal--Matthew ate his first lobster here and now he's hooked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Scottsdale AZ: </i><a href="http://freshmint.us.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Fresh Mint</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A totally vegetarian, mostly vegan Vietnamese restaurant, this was a surprise find on Yelp. Reasonably priced, flavorful and filling entrees and I didn't miss the meat at all.</span></div>
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<b style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><i><br />Scottsdale AZ: <a href="https://sites.google.com/a/goalbusters.net/home/fun-stuff/goog_1873340359" style="cursor: text;">The Mission</a></i></b><a href="http://www.themissionaz.com/" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank"> </a>Great late night find in Old Town Scottsdale--creative cocktails and well executed modern tapas. They have a drink with ghost pepper in it--Jim just kept asking for more ghost pepper sauce. I don't think they make it anymore--maybe Jim ate all the sauce they had.</div>
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<b style="font-style: italic;">Second Mesa AZ: <a href="http://www.hopiculturalcenter.com/" target="_blank">Hopi Cultural Center</a> </b>Not much to look at, but pretty reliable, and one of just a handful of restaurants on the Hopi Reservation. Don't stray from the fried food, though, as the other things are not so good. The Hopi Hot Beef and the Hopi Center Burger are our favorites, served on frybread (of course) with very crisp fries. Whenever I'm on the rez, I seem to order food with fresh jalapenos. Jim orders stuff with gravy. (See Chambers AZ: Apple Dumplin.)<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN:</span></span> </i></b><b><i>Sedona AZ: </i></b><a href="http://www.hirosedona.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Hiro's Sushi</a><b><i> </i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Beautiful views from the Hyatt Pinon Point and well prepared sushi too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Sedona AZ: </i><a href="http://www.lauberge.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">L'Auberge de Sedona</a><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Amazingly beautiful setting by the creek and an impressive buffet on Mother's Day which is pretty much the only time I go here. Wish I could go more often!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Te</i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">mpe AZ: <a href="http://www.rulabula.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Rula Bula</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> The one place on Mill Avenue that you can guarantee will be open late and serving food. Irish pub fare absorbs the copious amounts of Irish beer and whiskey being consumed by the local college students. The bartender will even set drinks on fire if you ask.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Tuba City AZ: Sonic </i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Okay, this isn't a restaurant pick. But we had a choice of Sonic or McDonald's and we chose Sonic. Just seeing if you're paying attention. But I do love the tots.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN:</span></span> </i></b><b><i>Tucson AZ: </i></b><a href="http://www.janos.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Janos and </a><a href="http://www.janos.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">J-Bar</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Both of these restaurants are amazing. GoalBusters friend Chef Janos Wilder gets to show off his "cantina" side at J-Bar, the less formal sister establishment to Janos at the Westin La Paloma. There are many creative dishes here, but a favorite is the Dark Chocolate Jalapeno Ice Cream Sundae!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Williams AZ:</i></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><a href="http://www.pinecountryrestaurant.com/" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><b><i>Pine Country Restaurant</i></b></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Usually we stop here en route to Kingman or Las Vegas. Sometimes I just order french fries and pie. The pies are HUGE--slices as big as your head. And yummy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Winslow AZ: </i></b><a href="http://www.laposada.org/turquoise-room.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Turquoise Room at La Posada</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> The bartender is clever and the signature soup is wonderful. The soup has a corn chowder and a black bean soup poured into a yin-yang pattern with a red chile "T-R" squiggled in the center. The bartender knows how to make Jim's signature cocktail, which is another post entirely.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Winslow AZ: </i></b><a href="http://www.travelmuse.com/articles/general-features/winslow-arizona-attractions" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">E & O Kitchen (at the airport)</a><b><i> </i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Oscar Barron, the "O" in E & O, is the host and server pretty much every day, and once gave us a detailed treatise on the proper way to make chile rellenos. He's absolutely right, because the E & O rellenos are our favorites--smoky, with a meaty texture and just the right amount of cheese. The gorditas are also a favorite, with a crispy corn exterior and meat filling of your choice. There are six different meats; Asada, Machaca, Picadillo, Carnitas, Adobada and Pollo. All are good, but we enjoy the ground beef (Picadillo) and the stewed pork (Adobada).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br />Yuma AZ: <a href="http://www.rivercitygrillyuma.com/index.html" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">River City Grill</a> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Executive Chef/Owner/Operator Nan Bain is Loretta Swit's double, and apparently Nan did stand in for "Hot Lips" once, since Nan is a former costumer in Los Angeles. This is our favorite fine dining in Yuma, and Nan is excellent company as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br />Yuma AZ: <a href="http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-20081768R-los_manjares_de_pepe-i" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Los Manjares de Pepe</a> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a little house on 8th Street in Yuma, this is our go-to Mexican place. Favorites are the chile relleno and the Pepe's Special, a slow braised pork in a green chile sauce.</span><br />
<i><b><br />Yuma AZ:</b> </i><i><b><a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2012/03/tacos-mi-rancho-aka-tacos-mi-ranchito.html" target="_blank">Tacos Mi Ranchito</a> </b></i>Located right next to the Best Western Coronado, they have very tasty tacos and a good selection of Mexican beers. Our favorites are the chicharron, chorizo, carnitas, and lengua tacos. This establishment is connected with Mi Rancho down the street, which we don't like at all. We like the "little Mexico" feeling of this place, and the fact that we can gorge ourselves on tacos for almost no money. The first time we went here, we ordered one of every taco on the menu. Our server thought us a little strange, which we are. <b><i><u>Full blog post </u><a href="http://alicesrestaurants.blogspot.com/2012/03/tacos-mi-rancho-aka-tacos-mi-ranchito.html">here</a>.</i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b><u><i>California</i></u></b></span><br />
<i><b>Bakersfield CA: <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/copes-knotty-pine-cafe-bakersfield" target="_blank">Cope's Knotty Pine Cafe</a></b> </i>Introduced Matthew to the wonders of chicken fried steak here. The steak was the size of two dinner plates and he pretty much ate the whole thing. We pretty much stop here every time we drive through Bakersfield now.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Carmel CA: </i><a href="http://www.pacificsedge.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Pacific's Edge</a><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>Stunning views of the Pacific. We had a rough start with this restaurant, but the management recovered and won us over. In fact, we went back the next night, which is totally unlike us. Food and cocktails were delicious, too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Sacramento CA: </i><a href="http://www.grangesacramento.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Grange Restaurant and Bar</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I have only drank here but the Manhattan was exceptional. Looking at the menu and with the vibe of the place I can already tell that I will like eating here. Plus </span><a href="http://www.culturemama.com/" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">my sister</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> recommends it. Must go back.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Sacramento CA: </i><a href="http://www.towercafe.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Tower Cafe</a><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>Desserts are the highlight, and what an assortment! Eclectic decor, huge California sized salads, oh, and did I mention <a href="http://www.towercafe.com/TowerDesserts.htm" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">dessert</a>? I will eventually try them all.</span> </div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Sacramento CA: </i><a href="http://www.vinovolo.com/about.php" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Vino Volo at the Sacramento International Airport</a> Okay, my problem with posting about restaurants in Sacramento is that when I visit, I'm visiting family so I eat at my parents' house or at the two restaurants that they like (New Canton for dim sum and Sushi King in case you're curious). So I don't eat out much in Sac. But during a lengthy wait at the airport, we hung out at Vino Volo which has free WiFi, outlets at the tables, and excellent wine. And we got upgraded to first class. Not a bad way to kill a couple hours.</span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>San Diego CA: </i></b><a href="http://www.peohes.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Peohe's</a><b><i> on Coronado Island </i></b><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">Lovely view of the San Diego bay and the Lobster Bisque is delicious.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br />San Francisco CA: <a href="http://www.belden-place.com/samsgrill/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Sam's Grill at Belden Place</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A San Francisco institution, their waiters still wear starched white shirts and black bow ties. The wait staff and kitchen team have worked together so long, they are like a family! The power brokers of the Financial District lunch here, so if you go a little after the typical lunch time, you have a better shot at a table. They make the best Manhattan in San Francisco! We had halibut cheeks for the first time here, which were tender and flavorful, and sand dabs, reminding me of the movie, </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;">Spirit of St. Louis</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">. On another trip, the Hangtown Fry was a hit--big, juicy oysters barely held together with some egg. Lovely.</span><br />
<b><i><br />San Francisco CA:</i></b> <a href="http://www.grandcafe-sf.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank"><b><i>Grand Cafe Brasserie and Bar at the Hotel Monaco</i></b></a> Got an incredible deal on a half bottle of 1994 Bordeaux here. The cassoulet was very rich and hearty--probably could have served three! Alice's Dad was perplexed by the <i>Soupe à L'Oignon Gratinée</i>, which Alice had to explain was French Onion Soup. Dad asked, "Well, why didn't they just write that in English then?"<br />
<b style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br />San Francisco CA: <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/reds-place-san-francisco" target="_blank">Red's Place</a></i></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Okay, I shouldn't give this one away. This is our favorite dive bar in Chinatown. Jenny works pretty much every weekend and remembers me every time. She usually greets me with "You cut your hair?" Which since it's usually been a year since I've seen her last, that's true. Cheap drinks, many locals, Chinese pop songs on the jukebox. Jim got all the guys to sing happy birthday to me on my 40th, which totally reminded me of the final scene in </span><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0085334/" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">A Christmas Story</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> when the waiters at the Chinese restaurant are singing "Fa rah rah rah rah, rah rah rah rah."</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br />San Francisco CA: <a href="http://www.slanteddoor.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">The Slanted Door</a></i></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Made a reservation for lunch wondering if all the hype was worth it. It was. The surprise for me was the cellophane noodles with Dungeness crab--I'm not usually a fan of cellophane noodles, but these were delicately flavored, not mushy at all, and just the right hit of crab. The lemongrass chicken was also stellar. While the shaking beef, one of their specialties, was incredible, I'm not sure it was worth being twice as expensive as everything else on the menu, though. Cocktails were beautiful and not too sweet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">San Francisco CA: </i><a href="http://www.urbantavernsf.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Urban Tavern</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Meatloaf sliders and the maple bourbon sour. YUM. And a drink special on </span><a href="http://www.foursquare.com/" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Foursquare</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>San Francisco CA: </i></b><a href="http://www.yanksing.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Yank Sing</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> King of all dim sum (or deem sum, as they spell it) in the western United States. The Shanghai dumpling, their signature soup dumpling, is worth the trip in itself, but then there's the Peking duck, the lettuce wraps with pine nuts, the ha gow, the sui mai.... The special Yank Sing XO sauce is also a great spicy condiment for just about anything. We prefer the Rincon Center location, which expands into the building atrium on the weekends. Be prepared to wait for a table, or better yet, make a reservation!</span><br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><u><b>DC area</b></u></span><br />
<i><b>Arlington VA: <a href="http://www.me-jana.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Me Jana</a> </b></i><span style="font-weight: normal;">Great Lebanese food and interesting personalities. The manager/owner called Jim "James Bond" all night, but that's not the only reason we liked it. Our favorites were the grape leaves, seared haloumi, ablama (zucchini stuffed with beef), and the halawet el Jeben (sweet cheese in an orange blossom syrup). It's relatively inexpensive, and a locally owned place, so we hope they continue to get support!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /><b style="font-style: italic;"><b style="font-style: normal;"><i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN:</span></span> </i></b>Washington DC: </b><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/restaurants/burma-restaurant,791675.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Burma Restaurant</a><span style="font-weight: normal;"> We had never tried Burmese food until this restaurant and were pleasantly surprised to discover that the foods didn't remind us of anything in other cuisines! The sour mustard plant and the green tea leaf salad were the highlights.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><b>Washington DC: <a href="http://www.cafeatlantico.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Cafe Atlantico</a>, <a href="http://www.oyamel.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Oyamel</a>, <a href="http://www.jaleo.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Jaleo</a> and <a href="http://www.zaytinya.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Zaytinya</a></b></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> Chef Jose Andres and his </span><a href="http://www.thinkfoodgroup.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">ThinkFoodGroup</a><span style="font-weight: normal;"> restaurants provided an unforgettable "progressive dinner" at four different concept restaurants.</span></span><i style="font-family: inherit;">(UPDATE: Cafe Atlantico is now closed but replaced with another ThinkFoodGroup concept restaurant.) </i><span style="font-family: inherit;">At </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic;"><b style="cursor: text;"><a href="http://www.cafeatlantico.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Cafe Atlantico</a> (</b></span><b><i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN)</span></span></i></b><span style="font-family: inherit;">, we enjoyed tableside prepared guacamole, and two very creative cocktails: the Magic Mojito, featuring cotton candy in a martini glass, which dissolved "magically" into the drink when the rest of the liquid was poured on top with a flourish; and the Faux Syrah Syrah, which took the flavor elements of syrah--blackberry, black pepper, and lavender to name a few--broke them down into their parts and recombined them into a cocktail.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">At <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.oyamel.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Oyamel</a></span>, Jose's Mexican cantina, Dave Andersen, the manager, treated us like VIP's and brought out Jose's favorite margarita, topped with "salt-lime air," a delicate looking but surprisingly sturdy seafoam that added a hint of salt and lime to every sip. In addition, we savored red snapper ceviche, pozole, and three kinds of tacos--carnitas, lengua and grasshopper! Funny enough, the grasshoppers, about an inch long, kept "jumping" out of the taco. They were deliciously spicy and crunchy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After that, off to <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.jaleo.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Jaleo</a></span>, Jose's tapas bar. There we enjoyed a buttery Iberico <span style="font-style: italic;">jamon </span>with a dry sherry.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Finally, we braved the cold to walk to <a href="http://www.zaytinya.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Zaytinya</a>, where we were greeting by Andy, our server, with the question, "How hungry are you at this point?" When we replied, "a light appetite," Andy responded with, "Okay, then the chef will provide three courses...."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">At one point there were 20 small dishes on the table! Exceptional dips--hummus, baba ghanoush, tzatziki among the six, with acompanion of a light pink bubbly. Grilled octopus--tender, lightly charred and mildly sweet. A pinot noir-esque red wine from Lebanon. Braised short ribs, a stewed lamb and chicken kabobs with an airy garlic aioli. Finally, we were presented with a glass of dessert wine and two desserts--a yogurt, brandied cherry and cherry sorbet parfait, which was light and refreshing, and a deconstructed chocolate covered cherry--crushed chocolate cookies, brandied cherries, caramel sauce, chocolate mousse-like pyramid and cherry sorbet. Taste a little bit of everything at once and it does indeed taste like a chocolate covered cherry!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b><u>Florida</u></b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Orlando FL: <a href="http://cubalibrerestaurant.com/i/orlando/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Cuba Libre</a> </b>Great place for a crowd-creative mojitos, yummy empanadas, loud Cuban music.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b style="font-style: italic;">Orlando FL: </b><a href="http://www.chefs.edu/orlando/restaurant.asp" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Machon</a><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">at the Le Cordon Bleu Orlando Culinary Academy is a bargain find in the land of expensive tourist traps. A student run restaurant, you can make a reservation on </span><a href="http://opentable.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Open Table</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and get to support the culinary students as well as get a good meal. For four people, two courses each, a bottle of wine, and desserts cost about $120. I had a delicious lobster bisque, rack of lamb, and bananas foster prepared tableside! All the tips go to the school's scholarship fund, so be sure to tack on a little extra since it's such a deal.</span><br />
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Georgia</span></u></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Atlanta GA at the Hartsfield Jackson International Airport: <a href="http://www.oneflewsouthatl.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">One Flew South</a></i></b> Yes, it's an airport restaurant! Behind security! And it's GOOD. Thanks to Entrepreneur Magazine for highlighting this one--wine bar, great and creative cocktails, "travel inspired cuisine," decent sushi, and great atmosphere. You almost forget you're in the airport.</span></div>
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<b><u><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Illinois</span></i></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Chicago IL: <a href="http://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants/topolobampo.html" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Topolobampo</a></i></b> Rick Bayless' fine dining restaurant, this place serves Mexican food as we Americans never imagined it. Incredibly refined, subtle flavors and gorgeous presentation. I loved every course.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Chicago IL: <a href="http://www.ginoseast.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Gino's East</a></i></b> Iconic Chicago style pizza. This was one of three stops for the GoalBusters Pizza Crawl, where we rented a stretch Hummer for 20 of our closest AFP friends and toured Gino's, the <a href="http://www.signatureroom.com/Signature-Lounge/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Signature Lounge</a> at the top of the Hancock, and <a href="http://www.loumalnatis.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Lou Malnati's</a>. Tons of fun. </span></div>
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kansas</span></u></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Kansas City KS: <a href="http://www.rosedalebarbeque.com/index.php" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Rosedale Barbecue</a></i></b> Amazing array of smoked meat and tangy sauce. Had a late lunch here after presenting at the Mid-America Conference and lingered over beers, brisket, pulled pork, smoked sausage, chicken, and conversation with the server, Shelly. Totally great time, and came home with several gallons of barbecue sauce, with the admonition to refrigerate the sauce as soon as possible! (Ask Jim's mom about that.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b><u>Louisiana</u></b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b>New Orleans LA: <a href="http://www.chefjohnbesh.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Restaurant August and Luke</a></b> </i>Part of Chef John Besh's restaurant group, August is the more formal older sibling of Luke, the louder, brighter bistro. Both provided excellent service and well executed dishes. Plus, I got to try absinthe for the first time at Luke--quite dramatic, but I'm not sure it's my potion of choice. At August, the foie gras three ways was delicious, and at Luke, incredibly good fried oysters.</span><br />
<i style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />New Orleans LA: <a href="https://sites.google.com/a/goalbusters.net/home/fun-stuff/goog_1256851926577" style="cursor: text;">Cochon Restaurant</a></b></i><a href="http://www.cochonrestaurant.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"> </a><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hip but cozy place located near </span><a href="http://www.emerils.com/restaurant/1/Emerils-New-Orleans/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Emeril's</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. Great place to get small dishes to share, like cured meats, rabbit, crawfish pie, okra, and other down home Cajun cuisine in a modern, relaxed environment. They have a lot of local brews and truly strange cocktails. Do not try the beet juice cocktail. I don't know what I was thinking. They also have </span><a href="http://www.cochonbutcher.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Cochon Butcher</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> next door, primarily a sandwich place, which I haven't tried but have read great reviews.</span><br />
<i style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />New Orleans LA: <a href="http://www.emerils.com/restaurant/1/Emerils-New-Orleans/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Emeril's</a></b></i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Truth be told, I was terrified that I would be disappointed with this place. So many times, you go to the celebrity chef places and the hype does not match the experience. With Emeril's, I was not disappointed. The location is beautiful, service stellar, and food fantastic. I've also been to Tchoup Chop in Orlando, which didn't quite live up to the reputation, so I'll stick with the original Emeril's in NOLA.</span><br />
<i style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />New Orleans LA: <a href="http://www.mothersrestaurant.net/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Mother's</a></b></i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Classic New Orleans for jambalaya, etouffee, red beans and po'boys. Expect a line at lunch time--just get in line, belly up to the counter and order some down home comfort food. I got the oyster po'boy but really wanted the combo platter, which is what Jim had. YUM.</span><br />
<i style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />New Orleans LA: <a href="http://www.erinrosebar.com/index2.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Erin Rose</a></b></i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Okay, not really a restaurant but a great local bar where you meet REAL LOCALS! Incredibly good value on drinks, especially since you're only one block off of Bourbon Street, and not a single neon blended drink to be found. Last time we were there, we met retired twins from Tennessee heading to Texas for NASCAR and a local parish Justice of the Peace who sang Irish songs. So cool.</span><br />
<i style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />New Orleans LA: <a href="http://cafedumonde.com/main.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Cafe du Monde</a></b></i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I can't believe I had this page up for a while before I posted this classic. This is the place where EVERYONE goes to get beignets and chicory coffee. It is a bit of a tourist trap, but that doesn't make the beignets any less tasty. Word of warning, do NOT wear black to this place. You will be dusted with powdered sugar, no matter how careful you are. Also, coffee refills are NOT FREE so be careful when the server asks you if you want a refill. And bring cash.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><u>Minnesota</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Rochester MN: <a href="http://www.sontes.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Sonte's</a> </b>As part of our "restaurant crawl" in Rochester, this was the highlight of the night. Tapas inspired menu with lots of small plates, the dishes were creative and well presented. Friendly and talkative (in a good way) bartender also made the night. Chorizo stuffed dates, seared scallops and a trio of manchego, chocolate chile, and foie gras ice cream were the highlights.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><u>Nevada</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Las Vegas NV: <a href="http://www.bouchonbistro.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Bouchon</a> at the Venetian</span> Yes, it's Thomas Keller, so how can it be bad? We go for the terrine de foie gras, an intensely buttery, rich jar of foie gras. That's all we need. Well, and a cocktail to go with it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Las Vegas NV: </i></b><a href="http://www.davidburke.com/dbvegas.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">David Burke</a><b><i> at the Venetian</i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Discovered David Burke when Bouchon was closed. The server was Jay, a mohawk-wearing, well-dressed dude who made the evening by being highly professional without being pretentious. The Angry Lobster, half a lobster poached in chili oil and somehow crisped but still tender, was the highlight, along with the finale bowl of pink cotton candy!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Las Vegas NV: </i></b><a href="http://andrelv.com/alize/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Alize at the Top of the Palms</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Incredible view of the strip from the Top of the Palms. The food is pretty darn tasty as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">CLOSED: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN:</span></span> </i></b><b><i>Las Vegas NV: </i></b><a href="http://www.rosemarysrestaurant.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Rosemary's</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A stellar off-the-strip restaurant, they almost always have a coupon online for a three course, prix fixe lunch for $23 or $25. Andrew is our other favorite server in Las Vegas, and the service here is, much like David Burke, professional and unpretentious. The barbecued shrimp with gorgonzola cole slaw is a delicious study in flavor balance.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Las Vegas NV: </i></b><a href="http://www.saipinchutima.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Lotus of Siam</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A totally unassuming Thai restaurant in an off-strip strip mall, this is the best Thai we've had in the US. We always order too much, though, and usually right before we hit the road back to Flagstaff. So the leftovers torture us with their intoxicating spices until we decide to just open up the boxes and eat the leftovers cold. Our favorite appetizer is the Nam Kao Tod, a combination of crispy rice and sour sausage that tastes way better than it sounds. The roasted duck curry is also exceptional. I had my "demotion" party for my two year term as Vice Chair, Member Services for the Association of Fundraising Professionals International at this restaurant and our group of almost 20 had a great time. The lobster was pretty amazing visually, and everything was well executed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b style="font-style: italic;">Las Vegas NV: </b><a href="http://www.toddenglishpub.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Todd English P.U.B.</a><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Located in the City Center, PUB is good grub, but refined. Our favorite? "Dirty Chips," which are fresh fried kettle chips with blue cheese, bacon and fried chicken livers. Really.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><u><span style="font-weight: 800;">New Mexico</span><span style="font-weight: 800;"><br /></span></u></i><b style="font-style: italic;">Albuquerque NM: <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/marys-and-titos-cafe-albuquerque" target="_blank">Mary and Tito's Cafe</a> </b>This is New Mexican family style dining, not Mexican food. We knew we were in the right place when our server said, "well, when my grandpa opened this place..." Hearty servings of green and red chile over frybread--this was the start of the week of travel without a vegetable.</span></div>
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<i style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br />Santa Fe NM: <a href="http://coyotecafe.com/pages/restaurant/about.html" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Coyote Cafe</a></b></i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> This place is famous for a reason. Very creative cocktails--Jim insisted on something on fire--and beautifully presented cuisine. Service was impeccable as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b style="font-style: italic;">Santa Fe NM: </b><a href="http://www.santafelunch.com/83/The_French_Pastry_Shop_at_La_Fonda_Hotel/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The French Pastry Shop</a><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Good place to stop for dessert and interestingly shaped bread. I wanted the turtle shaped loaf but they were out.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Santa Fe NM: </i><a href="http://pasquals.com/" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Pasqual's</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Funky little eatery that serves organic Southwestern cuisine. Reservations are a must though.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i style="font-weight: bold;">Taos NM: </i><a href="https://sites.google.com/a/goalbusters.net/home/fun-stuff/goog_1873340389" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Graham's Grill</a></span><a href="http://www.thefayway.com/dining/restaurant.php" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"> </a><span style="font-family: inherit;">Greeted by the owner Peter when we arrived--he's clearly very proud of the establishment and his wife, Lesley, the chef. Red fish with chile rellenos were delicious.</span><br />
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">New York</span></u></i></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">New York NY: <a href="http://www.sardis.com/htmldocs/cms/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Sardi's </a>and <a href="http://www.patsys.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Patsy's Italian</a> </i>Both old school, classic New York. At Patsy's, the maitre'd actually knew Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin and told us a really nice story about Dean. The food was pretty darn awesome as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><u>Oklahoma</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Guymon OK: The Breakfast Club </span>This is an oasis in the middle of nowhere. It even got Jim to eat breakfast, which is a rarity. Chicken fried steak, HUGE pancakes with creative fillings--we had the bacon pancake (bacon! IN the pancake!), butterscotch pancake and pecan pancake, and really crispy hash browns. Didn't need to eat for many more miles, which was good since we had a long way to go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>Oklahoma City OK: Cocktails on the Skyline</i></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> A summer oasis on the roof of the </span><a href="http://www.okcmoa.com/index.php" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Oklahoma City Museum of Art</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, they have live jazz performances and access to a full (cash) bar included in admission to the museum after 5 pm. Got to walk through the Chihuly glass exhibit and then get a glass of something.</span><br />
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<b><u><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pennsylvania</span></i></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Duryea PA: <a href="http://aurants.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">AuRants</a></i></b> This one's for you, John Dawe. John took us to this locally owned and operated restaurant when we presented at THE Conference in Wilkes-Barre. Everything here is enormous, but the scene stealer was the Pig Wings. At least that's what I think they were called. It was pork. It was good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><u>Tennessee</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Nashville TN: <a href="http://www.lovelesscafe.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Loveless Cafe</a></span> About 30 minutes from downtown Nashville, this place is where everyone still calls you "hon" and they serve down home, stick to the ribs, comfort food. The biscuits with sausage gravy are like a sausage cloud, and will now be the gold standard by which every other biscuit with gravy will be judged. The fried chicken and barbecued meats are pretty dang tasty as well.</span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><u>Texas</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Houston TX: <a href="http://www.marks1658.com/" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">Mark's American Cuisine</a></i></b> Lovely setting for really good food--it's a renovated church and they take great advantage of local foods and regional cuisine for inspiration.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><i>San Antonio TX: </i></b><a href="http://www.boudros.com/boudros/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Boudros on the Riverwalk</a><b style="font-style: italic; font-weight: normal;"> </b><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">You MUST get the tableside prepared guacamole. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-style: normal;">I ate the whole thing by myself, it was so good. Also, the prickly pear margarita was tasty as well as lovely.</span></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: normal;"></span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b><u>Wisconsin</u></b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b>Madison WI: <a href="http://www.essen-haus.com/" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: text;" target="_blank">The Essen Haus</a></b></i> Yes, it needs a little refreshing, but it's a Madison institution, dang it! You can go to the newer, fancier places in town, but here you get lots of good beer, decent German food, and polka music seemingly every night. Plus, if you time it right, you can listen to a local barfly lecture the bartender about healthcare reform. Cool.</span>Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14674687441518229692noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-45850864608725076292012-01-01T22:51:00.001-07:002012-01-09T01:09:57.464-07:00La Sauvagine, Montreal, Quebec, CanadaThe perfect little restaurant for my Montreal experience in 2011 was <a href="http://www.sauvagine-montreal.com/index.php?langue=en" target="_blank">La Sauvagine</a>, located in Old Montreal. This restaurant is located on the corner of Rue St Paul Est and St-Vincent, and we were lucky enough to snag a corner table by the window for some great people watching.<br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Experience</u><br />
We visited this restaurant on a whim on our last full day in Montreal at the end of a conference. Before I left, I wanted to go to a place that felt like Quebec and La Sauvagine did not disappoint. My capacity to speak French is almost nonexistent, yet the staff were very patient with my attempts. Good news is that I speak "Menu" in many languages, so my selection process was not difficult!<br />
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<b><u>Cuisine</u></b><br />
My business partner and travel buddy, Jim Anderson (also known as my "work spouse") and I had a leisurely (read: long!) meal of the following:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kHe0sKW6zoI/TwFKA8oybUI/AAAAAAAAAWs/JheIk7YrAxI/s1600/IMAG0074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kHe0sKW6zoI/TwFKA8oybUI/AAAAAAAAAWs/JheIk7YrAxI/s320/IMAG0074.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Escargot with Phyllo/<i>Croustillant d'escargots</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terrine of Game (Wild Boar)/<i>Terrine de gibier</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mussels and Fries/<i>Moules Frites</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lobster in Port and Mushrooms (close up)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXoT6LqNRlQ/TwFLuI91SAI/AAAAAAAAAXc/oyFdvnNNW-U/s1600/lobster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXoT6LqNRlQ/TwFLuI91SAI/AAAAAAAAAXc/oyFdvnNNW-U/s320/lobster.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lobster in Port and Mushrooms (full dish)/<i>homard dans le port et les champignons</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese Plate/<i>plateau de fromages</i></td></tr>
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<b><u>Booze</u></b></div>
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La Sauvagine has a short but practical wine list, offering very affordable options. Our first choice wine was not available, but the server brought a pleasant red to substitute which was well within our price point and delicious. I wish I had written down what it was!</div>
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<b><u>Summary</u></b></div>
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Not too far off the beaten path, this neighborhood restaurant is a treat. I would go back in an instant.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WsR9BckMpdQ/TwFQvgfisrI/AAAAAAAAAXo/jxiuDJh3nWY/s1600/la-sauvagine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WsR9BckMpdQ/TwFQvgfisrI/AAAAAAAAAXo/jxiuDJh3nWY/s1600/la-sauvagine.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from <a href="http://www.tourisme-montreal.org/Cuisine/Restaurants/la-sauvagine" target="_blank">tourisme-montreal.org</a>: my table is in the<br />
back of this photo by the double windows</td></tr>
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<b><u>Location</u></b></div>
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La Sauvagine</div>
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115 Rue Saint Paul Est</div>
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Montreal, QC H2Y 1G7</div>
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Canada</div>
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<a href="http://www.sauvagine-montreal.com/index.php?langue=en">http://www.sauvagine-montreal.com/index.php?langue=en</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.foodspotting.com/places/270500-restaurant-sauvagine-montreal">http://www.foodspotting.com/places/270500-restaurant-sauvagine-montreal</a>
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<small><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=embed&hl=en&geocode=&q=la+sauvagine+montreal&aq=&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=44.47475,93.076172&vpsrc=0&ie=UTF8&hq=la+sauvagine&hnear=Montreal,+Communaut%C3%A9-Urbaine-de-Montr%C3%A9al,+Quebec,+Canada&t=h&z=14&iwloc=A&cid=7788336299221270290&ll=45.50686,-73.552922" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small>Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14674687441518229692noreply@blogger.com0115 Rue Saint Paul Est, Montreal, QC H2Y 1G7, Canada45.5068603 -73.552921745.5054693 -73.5553892 45.5082513 -73.5504542tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-65378249173046139272011-12-09T22:15:00.001-07:002013-09-03T23:50:52.446-07:00Tinderbox Kitchen, Flagstaff, Arizona<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqg2cDMEYa6Ms0hpThSVcPeZH5vQtMj41aRNUZSL4RP0j3O_ETFfYUPJuD3I3SFoZM4a1y6HtMsLRetpBR3L6vThMKDqDRy-P_7RKlIbq4BuYmYxhsu6kD7Xs_CCYsT3yvT9dMsq0Z4NH/s1600/tbox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqg2cDMEYa6Ms0hpThSVcPeZH5vQtMj41aRNUZSL4RP0j3O_ETFfYUPJuD3I3SFoZM4a1y6HtMsLRetpBR3L6vThMKDqDRy-P_7RKlIbq4BuYmYxhsu6kD7Xs_CCYsT3yvT9dMsq0Z4NH/s1600/tbox.jpg" /></a></div>
If you know me and my dining patterns, you kind of knew that <a href="http://tinderboxkitchen.com/" target="_blank">Tinderbox Kitchen</a> had to be my first post. It's my place "where everybody knows my name," and they pretty much know what I drink, too.<br />
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<u><b>My History with the Restaurant</b></u><br />
"TBox," as it's known to its fans, is co-owned by Chef Scott Heinonen and manager Kevin Heinonen. I met Scott when he was the chef at another downtown restaurant, and he won me over by making chicken liver pate. Really. Right before TBox opened in 2009, I remember Scott calling me to say, "I'm opening up a new place, and I hope you'll try it." I've pretty much been at the restaurant at least once a month ever since.<br />
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<b><u>Cuisine</u></b><br />
Dubbed "American Comfort Food-Redefined," TBox dives into the currently uber-fashionable trend of high end reinterpretation of homestyle classics. We sometimes joke that this means dishes with pork. (It tends to be a meat centric menu, just as a word of warning to any vegetarians.) The menu changes every day, but here are a few of my favorites (and only one with pork!)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Pan roasted duck.</i> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">There are any number of preparations for this, and whatever is the selected way that night is going to be good.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Seared Scallops with Creamed Corn:</i> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">If there's creamed corn with bacon on the menu, get it. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Also, the scallops regardless of preparation are always big and tender, never overcooked.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Buffalo Style Chicken Livers:</i> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Spicy and very rich, this appetizer can be a meal in itself if you like chicken livers, which I do.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1y3YBNQoAbe85AU0a_logVeXZVO2bTXxcaz2crav9doTh3VGL5Z316JxIGEbTbud5Qr5tDTctWqu9X_3R5cA3baDfUWunGn5c5mshrJRnOmUnTp3-8ZkVqR_kyAupE0ftLeClYqSDTu2y/s1600/DSC03513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1y3YBNQoAbe85AU0a_logVeXZVO2bTXxcaz2crav9doTh3VGL5Z316JxIGEbTbud5Qr5tDTctWqu9X_3R5cA3baDfUWunGn5c5mshrJRnOmUnTp3-8ZkVqR_kyAupE0ftLeClYqSDTu2y/s320/DSC03513.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Charcuterie Board</i>: If I'm lucky, there's chicken liver pate on it. (See my history.)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXdmORuLtIYDLyHwzWGQxYEZxda5DrK9K1U6CtNkNcsuYVmI0ZdBCbENtPtYuTyVplpR9s8my175yVCePr4El7YD4KGNteqDdj85V8evdYEJC0-W3L4qZDEue11pHqCzqrz183OA52NESm/s1600/DSC00003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXdmORuLtIYDLyHwzWGQxYEZxda5DrK9K1U6CtNkNcsuYVmI0ZdBCbENtPtYuTyVplpR9s8my175yVCePr4El7YD4KGNteqDdj85V8evdYEJC0-W3L4qZDEue11pHqCzqrz183OA52NESm/s320/DSC00003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Chocolate Mousse Duo:</i> The barely baked chocolate cake used to be my favorite here, but then I had this combination of chocolate and peanut butter mousse. Once, I ate two of them. I'm not proud, but it sure was good.</span></td></tr>
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<b><u>Booze</u></b><br />
They have two bars here: the dining room bar and the Annex next door. The bartenders are very good at their craft and have a modest but solid cocktail menu. I love the fact that when I come in for dinner, my drink is usually at my table within minutes of me sitting down. (It's a Churchill Manhattan, if you're curious.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx161vuLku7DbJiQHZon4USdxOXmmjeZAK7K2TAWO2zj3ebaHWjycbq7OMIc8nrR9NcusuWRS7D2b0QDiOBvUdsas1BtVlkbltXlJrDSY0bDSsowRuIo16LGs7iM5jFV82Di-Vf54Fla7-/s1600/DSC04703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx161vuLku7DbJiQHZon4USdxOXmmjeZAK7K2TAWO2zj3ebaHWjycbq7OMIc8nrR9NcusuWRS7D2b0QDiOBvUdsas1BtVlkbltXlJrDSY0bDSsowRuIo16LGs7iM5jFV82Di-Vf54Fla7-/s320/DSC04703.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Churchill Manhattan: Rye whiskey, sweet and dry vermouth, orange bitters</td></tr>
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<b><u>Experience</u></b><br />
I kind of think of this as "Flagstaff formal" both in attire of the patrons and the vibe from the staff. You'll get expert service, but not white linens or urban formality. They also have a soundtrack to go with it--no instrumental elevator music here. You'll hear music from the 70's, 80's, 90's and whatever other random track they feel like putting on. Sometimes a whole album.<br />
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<b><u>Summary</u></b><br />
It's my go-to restaurant in Flagstaff--locally owned, solidly executed menu, staff that I genuinely like, and of course, a place for chicken liver and pork.<br />
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<b><u>Location</u></b><br />
Tinderbox Kitchen and Tinderbox Annex<br />
34 S. San Francisco<br />
Flagstaff, AZ 86001<br />
<a href="http://www.tinderboxkitchen.com/" target="_blank">http://www.tinderboxkitchen.com/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.foodspotting.com/places/198730-tinderbox-kitchen-flagstaff">http://www.foodspotting.com/places/198730-tinderbox-kitchen-flagstaff</a>
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<br />Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14674687441518229692noreply@blogger.com034 S San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA35.195515 -111.6484135.193893 -111.65087749999999 35.197137 -111.6459425tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982986886773548951.post-21146942800708107042011-08-17T00:12:00.000-07:002011-08-17T00:12:00.534-07:00Coming Soon! Alice's Restaurant PicksI'm migrating the Alice's Restaurant Picks from our website to this site, but it may take me a little while! I hope to add food pictures (or "food porn" as Jim Anderson likes to call it) and more detailed reviews of some of my favorites. But in the meantime, you can visit <a href="http://www.goalbusters.net/fun-stuff/alices-restaurant-picks">http://www.goalbusters.net/fun-stuff/alices-restaurant-picks</a> to see my quick picks of some of the places I've eaten.<br />
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Thanks for your patience!Alice Ferrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14674687441518229692noreply@blogger.com0