Gordon's Be Back Fish House, Eatonville

I ordered some items to go from this fish house near to the Zora Neale Hurston House (don't know who she was or that there is a museum dedicated to her...well how about the Birds of Prey sanctuary...heard of that) on Wednesday. I so wanted to be able to assuage my white guilt by championing the only remaining restaurant on that side of the tracks, but, a luke warm report is the best I can do. And I can only do lukewarm because my delay in sampling the food may have caused some of its unpalpability. I had a "trout" sandwich for (daily special price) for $4 and chicken wings for $5.50. I say "trout" because the skin didn't look like trout skin. It had a diamond shaped pattern more typical of the Basa on the menu. It was six pieces on white bread (this Southern affectation is the biggest insult to the culinary world on the planet). Some pieces tasted ok. Some seemed rancid. I have a feeling that the fish was old. It was definitely frozen. The batter had little taste. The skin was soggy, but, I already explained that I may have let it sit long enough to lose it's texture. The wings were average. The sauce was a little tart. The skin wasn't crisp (could have steamed while it sat). It was supposed to be five wings, but, they gave me eight. So there's that. It came with crinkle fries (also not crisp - maybe sat too long). It's hard to recommend a place in which the best thing you had from them was the fries after you topped them with some home cooked chili and left over cheese from your Subway sandwich. I only encourage you not to totally write them off because of my miscalculation on eating time (I was going to eat it with something from one of the food trucks in WP, but, they seem to be all closed down for lunch now) and the fact that the owner couldn't have been nicer. The place is small. It seats about twenty. It is in a little white shack near the new welcoming pillars on Kennedy Blvd (in between the strip mall that houses Copper Rocket and the new condos). It serves fried fish (6 types), wings, shrimp and some interesting desserts. I recommend you lower your expectations and make a day out of visiting the two places of interest on this street and rolling the dice that the food is better hot out of the grill. The neighborhood is often overlooked and can deliver a diversion. Plus you can see where they spent some of your TARP money.

Burgerfi, Winter Park

I had lunch at this burger joint that opened over the summer on Wednesday. It is near Rollins College on Park Ave across from the 7-11. I had Single Cheeseburger for $4.50 and a Cry and Fries for $5. The burger was pretty good (like 5 Guys quality). It was a tad overcooked. The patty was a little bulbous (press your thumb in the middle like Rachael Ray to flatten it out). It made it appear to be (as Dave Attell quips about penises) "tiny, Tiny" at first glance. It wasn't huge, but, bigger than a McDonald's burger. They gave you a large choice of free toppings. The ones I chose (lettuce, tomato, raw onion and catsup) were fresh. The bun was sweet, fresh, spongy and came branded. The Fry and Cry was an order of fries and onion rings together. The fries were what I like to call "dark meat" fries. They have the skins on them and like dark meat tend to be a little gamey and soft. In fries, they seem to be harder to get crispy than their pale brethren. These were predictably soft. The onion rings (3 large) were crisp. But, I really only have one place where I like the rings - Carl's Jr. These were to cut too thick for me to enjoy. I want more crust to onion. I basically want a Funion. That's me. The menu has variations on burgers, dogs, ice cream/custard, beer and wine. The dogs are a little expensive at $3.50+. They have an interesting kobe beef dog and a chicken apple dog.  They have quinoa, angus, brisket burgers. The booze is marked up three times retail (pretty usual). They have a "secret" menu that is so secret the print it on the back of the take out menu. The place is comfortably hip. They have a video menu. The place is light wood and steel. They have an outside patio (on the sidewalk) decorated with high quality colored, plastic chairs and tables. It was clean. It must seat 100+. There were about 30 people there at 2pm. It was a rainbow coalition. They played music. There is a large fan outside that looks like it came off a B52. The service (you order at the register and they bring it to you) was friendly and prompt. It didn't seem like a tip was expected. I expect it to be a giant hit. It's so close to the college that they can exist on that market alone (until the first fraternity drunken brawl). But, it also will appeal to hipsters and the usual Winter Park crowd. It has sister locations (4) in south Florida. I wouldn't cancel your plans elsewhere to experience it, but, try it at some point if you long for 5 Guys or In and Out Burger. Parking is an issue. Also didn't love the $3 sodas.

PSA - Papaya Seeds

After escaping purgatory for the summer (in which I added Persian, Burmese and other ethnicities to my food vocabulary), I'm ready to bore you with more local reviews. However, I'll start you with a health tip.

I saw this segment on Dr. Oz in which he says a huge majority of people have intestinal worms and don't realize it. They anchor themselves in your intestines. They sap your energy, give you "issues" and bloat you, etc. Many people ascribe the symptoms to gluten allergies or ciliac disease or certain foods or just plain lethargy. You can get rid of them by eating 1/4 cup of papaya seeds a day for two weeks. I'm pretty sure you have to chew them up for it to work. Do a search of it online for more info. You Tube has some testimonials.

I already feel much better and I've only been doing it for 3 days. They taste like pepper. Even if you don't have this issue, they work great to flush your system (in about 12 hours) and trim your waistline. You don't get diarrhea, but, it does make you poop. Make sure you have easy access to a rest room while you are on this regime. It's cheap (a big guy at Walmart cost like $3 and gives four days worth of seeds), natural and effective. At worst, you force yourself to eat some lovely papaya. Supposedly, the rise in imported foods, eating raw/organic food (like sushi) and increased travel to foreign lands are the causes.

Fish Tales, Longwood - Closed

I had lunch at this seafood restaurant on 434 near I-4 in the strip mall where the original Terra Mia is (they seem to be closed for lunch of the weekend) last Friday. I had a shrimp Po' Boy for $9. It was the cheapest thing on the menu. One thing I hate almost as much as high priced, mediocre Italian is high priced, mediocre Seafood. The bun was stale. It had visible streaks of what I like to call white mold. I'm not sure if it is mold, but, it is a sign of stale bread. Not that the bun was probably top notch to begin with. The shrimp seemed frozen. They (8) were very mushy. The coating was ok. It came with "half and half" fries. I say "half and half" because half were fried and half were undercooked. I've heard this happens if you fry cold/frozen fries before they defrost. It seems to be an epidemic. Can no one tell they aren't done when they lift the basket? It happens everywhere. Drop them back in the damn grease! I'll wait. It also came with a ramekin of mayonaise based cole slaw. It was fine. The service (3 on duty) was fine. Pleasant and informative. The place is a little weird looking. It has three areas. The front area is a little sparse. It has some a wooden floor and maritime decoration. The bar has a loungy, blue light counter top. They said it was put in by this owner. It is totally gauche and out of step with the other interior decorating. It takes up most of that room. There are some high tops around the perimeter and an area for live music. The lights were off for some reason. I hope it wasn't to flaunt the neon.The room I ate in was three toned (orange, green and yellow) with a black ceiling. You can say that this melange either gives you three unique dining environs or you can say nobody thought this through. The place seats around 70. It was a sushi and an Italian dinner theater spot (Pal Joey's) in a previous life. They didn't wow me and neither did this place. It's fine if your idea of fine dining is where the locals go after playing a round on the public golf course. The prices are all around $20 and I would have no faith that you are getting fresh seafood for the price. I would also bet that the person cooking the food has had no formal training. It's the kind of place Gordan Ramsey would go to and find a myriad of issues to blow his top over. It has been open for a month. Since it is so hidden and the value proposition is low. I wouldn't expect it to be open long. Yet, it was only one po' boy and I am assuming alot. Try it and let me know if my presumptions were right. I have nothing against the owner or the place. She seemed nice. I don't want to get into one of those pissy tiffs like the guy from Finesse (now closed as predicted) wanted to initiate. I'm scared she chose one of those terrible locations and hard food categories that just kill businesses. I wanted to say there is no happy ending to this Fish Tale, but, I won't. It would be too precious.

Francesco's, Maitland

I had lunch on Wednesday at this Ristorante - Pizzeria in Maitland. It is on 17-92 in the old NYPD Pizza location. I had a Pollo Mianese Salad for $9. It was good. The spring mix was fresh and bountiful. The chicken was not greasy. It was cut into strips. It probably had a panko crust. The tomatoes and onions were fresh. The Italian dressing may have been a little bottle-y. It was good enough that I sampled a dessert (Cassata al Forno) and ordered a pizza (10 inch) to go for dinner. The cake was made by the head chef's (part owner) father. It cost $6. It was good. It was three desserts in one. The crust was thick like a biscotti or a Snickerdoodle. The filling was like cheese cake (ricotta). The bottom was drenched is syrup like Baklava. It was infused with chocolate. I don't know how the attained such chocolate-osity with what appeared to be a minute amount of product. The family is Sicilian, so, I guess that explains the various influences in the cake. The pizza was ok. They say they have a 700 degree oven. It kind of came out like a tire. The hub cap area had cheese. The tire area was crust. There was a little too much crust and the whole pizza was a little fat. I'd bet they take the same amount of dough the use in a regular pizza (13 or 16 inch) and just didn't knead it as thin. The cheese wasn't great either. Not the freshest it could be. They provided you with some slices of bread that I think were made in house. They didn't have much taste. The menu is a little me-too and small. Under ten options for each course. Oddly, they have panini, but, don't list them on the lunch menu (dinner only). The chef is from Terra Mia and they offer a little more diversity. Maybe some of those interesting items will make it onto the menu as specials. The place is dressed in black and tans. It is meant to look like a rustic enclave like a farmhouse. It is mostly booths. There is a private room and a small area aside it with tables. Unfortunately the bimbo hostess they hired for the summer seated me there and I had a wonderful view of the ticketing computer. There were plenty of other tables on offer and the place wasn't full and it was past the rush. There is a bar area aside the open kitchen. All in all, I can recommend it. It isn't as big or visually appealing as some of its competition and the menu and ingredients could use a nudge, but, it is good. It has opened recently. Try it and then take a trip into Eatonville to see the improved city planning, bird sanctuary and the Zora Neale Hurston home.

Ceviche House, Orlando - Closed

I popped in for dinner at this newly opened sister station of this Peruvian restaurant on OBT on the way back from the airport on Monday. It is on 436 in between the Beach Line and 50. I believe the original is well received. I had the Chilicano Soup (Fish broth with fish pieces) for $6. It was a huge bowl loaded with a ton of fish. I think they said it was Baca as in Bacaloa. I'm not sure what it translates to in English. It was white, light and buttery. The broth was outrageous. A meal in itself. I wish I had made it that because I was already tapped out from a trip to the Midwest where I did as many Travel Channel joints as possible (think Foie Gras dogs, Cheese curds, Brats, Juisy Lucy's, etc). I also ordered some ceviche. It is the Ceviche House after all. I ordered the Ceviche Mixto (octopus, squid, shrimp, fish) for $17. I was expecting one of those little, glass sundae containers with some poorly vinegared bait (I know it's lime juice, but, they never do it right). I received a hip, white plate with a mound of delicious seafood and red onion (enough for 4). The seafood wasn't over seared. The searing liquid was a tasty amalgamation of citrus juice and leche de tigre (dairy based). They served a sweet potato square and some Land of the Lost sized corn kernels with it. I wasn't that keen on the last two items, but, I guess it is traditional. I just don't see how they compliment the ceviche. The menu is huge. You could take a course in Peruvian cuisine here. They had chaufa (fried rice dishes), every kind of beef, chicken or seafood dish, some dishes using mashed potatoes as a base. Too many to name. I used to have no respect for South American cuisine, but, I'm gaining more respect for it. Orlando is a good place to sample the diet of most of the countries south of us. In my limited experience Peru is to South America what Japan or maybe Vietnam is to Asia. It is the best and most diverse cuisine in the region. The flavors are more subtle, complex and refined. The owner of the restaurant told me that it started with the Incas, but, the Asians, Italians, and Spanish have influenced the growth. I'm not sure who to thank. Let's thank them all. Back to the review. The place is in a sketchy neighborhood. The building is nothing to look at. The interior is very bare. It's a square room that seats about 80. There is not much for decoration save the tables. It's a dark wood color scheme. There were about 10 people there when I ate. They mostly seemed like ex-pats. It's not fancy. Nobody was dressed up. People brought their kids. They had a TV showing ESPN in the corner. The wait staff was pleasant. They probably should have known not to bring out both dishes at the same time. The menu is priced in the mid-teens to twenty. I though this might be a bit pricey for the customer base when I first looked at it and the clientele, but, it is more than reasonable when you see the portion size and quality. Just remember to reduce your order in half to adjust for the huge servings. Other than that, the only problem I can see you having at this place is choosing what sounds the most interesting. I suggest you seek either location and test what has to be the best cuisine in town of the best cuisine in South America. They even have Peruvian wine (which I was told is prodigious, but, doesn't have the distribution network of Argentina or Chile).

Grub Crawl - Sanford : State Market, Great Wall, Montego Bay

All these spots are on 17-92 in or around the Seminole Town Square (think around The Barn). I ate there on Saturday.

State Market Restaurant - I had a Turkey Triple Decker Club (also available with Ham or Roast Beef) for $5.65. It came with fries. It was acceptable. The turkey was a little "loafy", but, the rest was fresh. The shoestring fries were good (hot and crisp). Service (2) was a little flustered to begin with. They were pleasant, however. The place has been in existence for over 50 years. I don't know how I missed it before now. Perhaps the unlighted "Open" sign has something to do with that. It's a small place. It seats about 40. The crowd seems very local. I think half the patrons were off duty cops. They seem like the go there regularly. The menu is diner food. Breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches and some interesting down home desserts (ie pies). They have a signature dish. It's called a breakfast boat. The place was a little dirty (unbused tables) and not much to look at. However, they must be doing something right to be in business that long. I wouldn't make a special trip for it, but, if you are in the area and you order right, I can see it being a slightly ironic hoot. They are closed on Sunday. They close at 3pm during the week and 2pm on Saturday. The menu accepts/displays ads for local businesses. I'm not sure if that is good business or tacky. This is the one place that was not in the strip mall. There is a truck depot behind it. One of the loading docks said it was a farmer's market. Maybe that will make it more enticing an option? I also overheard the customers saying that the Barn goes off with college kids on Thursday starting at 10pm.

Great Wall Chinese Food - I had a lunch special of something I think was called sliced chicken for $5. It came with fried rice and a soda. A deal. The meal was more sweet than spicy. It came with carrots, cabbage and green peppers. The fried rice was better than what I have been complaining of. It may even have been cooked that day. It was more yellow than brown, so, perhaps I avoided alot of soy/sodium. It had a sprinkling of peas, pork and onions. It was buttery. The place is Chinese take out. The menu is cookie cutter and the decor is meal signage. They say the do it "New York Style". Since it was cooked by Chinese and not Mexicans, I have to argue that point. It's probably above average for it's class. Probably something better than the neighborhood deserves. I would trade out my local purveyors for it. Not worth a special trip, but, ok.  

Montego Bay Caribbean Takeout - I had a small Jerk Chicken meal to go for $8. You have to watch out because they are sneaky genius's when it comes to pricing. They do extra small, small and large. They nailed me for the larger price. The chicken was predictable. Good spice, but, not a lot of meat and boney. It was basically a drumstick and thigh cut into hunks. It came with rice and peas. They sure looked like beans. I'm getting sick of rice so I just nibbled. It was your basic dirty rice dish (no flavor). It also came with sauteed cabbage and carrots. Not my thing. The last side was sweet plantains. They were sweet. Too much starch/carbs and once again not my thing. But, I do this for you. If you like this food then I think you will like this place. They have been open for four years. They do puffs, goat, oxtail, shrimp, ackee, saltfish, snapper, etc. They even brew some of their own drinks (sorrel and ginger beer). It has 3 seats. The decor is made up of newspaper pullouts and advertising posters pertaining to Jamaica.

Grub Crawl - Altamonte Springs : Just Fork It, Viet House, Luna Station - Closed (2 of 3)

I sampled these spots on 436 this Wednesday. One of the first two (or a combination of) caused explosive results the next day.

Just Fork It - I had the daily special of meatloaf, mashed potatoes and a cucumber salad for $7. The meatloaf was made with ground chuck. It was a little stringy. They gave you three slices. It was bland. The mashed potatoes were bland. It had chunks of potatoes, so at least it wasn't powdered. The gravy was bland too. The cucumbers were too thickly sliced and the brine seemed to be Italian dressing. I don't want to crush this place because the people were nice. They are from Wisconsin. Their old location was on Lee Rd. The have been open for a year (old Del Dio's location). I can't recommend it to anyone who has an average or better palate. It's probably ok for the old people who were also eating there. Very road side diner in the boonies. The place seats about 70. It resembles a road side diner (non-Greek). The menu is all over the place (typical for this sort of endeavour). The are open 10:30am - 10pm. Closed on Sunday. They are hidden behind an oil lube place, so, you can't see it from the road. I have to give them some credit for trying to incorporate some fun by having a burger that they saw on Triple D.

Viet House - I had a special combo Banh Mi at this little takeout window next to a gas station at 1006 East Altamonte for $4. It had pate, pork roll, jambon, bbq pork and head cheese with mayo, cilantro, cucumber, pickled carrots and daikon on a baguette. It's amazing that most of these things can taste/look/feel horrible on their own, yet, combine into a tasty whole. The place was once a Cajun place and then a Cuban place. Now it's the only Vietnamese for miles. You can't eat inside anymore. Officials made them close that area because of some ordinance (size). It's all take away now. I'd roll the dice on the gastrointestinal roulette wheel if you have to have Vietnamese and are in the area. It's right by where the train tracks cross over 436.

Luna Station - I had a pineapple and ham empanada for $1! It was baked dough with pineapple jam and a few scraps of ham. It was ok. Mostly air. At least it wasn't greasy. The place is mostly an ice cream, dessert and hot drink spot. The do serve arepas too. It is right next to Viet House (closer to 436). It is also take away only. The have a bench with an umbrella outside. Update - I believe Luna Station is the only survivor. 11/18/2013

Greens and Grille, Millenium Blvd

I grabbed a Tiger shrimp sandwich to go at this fresh fast food restaurant on Saturday.It came with a bag of pita chips (the highlight). It cost $8 (one of the cheaper options). They tried to charge an extra buck for it. When I informed them that it was illegal to post one price and charge another, the nice check out girl discounted it. She also let me know that they were aware of the discrepency, but, the boss hasn't deemed it important enough to update the signs on the wall. She made it sound like this is not a new issue. It makes one wonder if the owner is a thief or a sloth. Needless to say this type of chicanery left a bad taste in my mouth. One that wasn't really curbed by a bite of their sandwich. The shrimp (3) were small and burned. The basic toppings of lettuce, tomato and onion were penuriously applied and dirty looking. The "rustic bread" was ok. They also put way to much dijon mustard on it. I might have been able to forgive the sloppiness of the product, but, the mental irritant of one man trying to rip of his customers manifested itself in anger. This sort of place is just a glorified Panera that seeks to aggrandize itself with a few euphemisms and some beer and some entry level quality bottles of wine. It's the sort of place your wife brings the kids to so she can get drunk while wasting a greater percentage of your money more quickly. It's meant to give the illusion of sophistication. It reeks of chain banality, however. No real gourmet would be satisfied with the food. No one with a discerning eye would be impressed with the ambiance. They basically have pork loin, chicken, cheap steak and cheap shrimp served as many ways as possible to create the illusion of choice. If your idea of choice is salad or sandwich. It is prepared on a grill or salad tossing area on the other side of the line that leads you to the register. That is fulchrum of the place. The place that the owner really is most concerned about. I suggest you avoid the mediocre food. It's not better enough to justify the cost. In terms of comparison, the shrimp wrap at Pasha next door was $9. It came with double the amount of larger shrimp. It came with fresh toppings and a fresh salad. It was served to me by a waitress.  

Pasha, Millenium Blvd - Closed

I had lunch at this Middle Eastern/North African restaurant on Saturday. I had a shrimp wrap for $9. It was good. The shrimp (6) were about the size of a women's thumb. They weren't overcooked. The herbs and spices along with a little flame induced smokiness made it savory. It came in a traditional wrap with lettuce, tomato, onion and tatziki sauce. They were fresh. It also came with a nice field green salad with some cousin of a creamy Italian dressing. It was a simple, but, tasteful plating. The service was good. The place seats about 60 in the main room. They have a bar and and roped off private room. It was about a quarter full. It is decorated appropriately. The have: murals of Middle Eastern locales, hookah pipes, faux window sills and a seating area merged with a stage for belly dancing. It gives it a very rococo feel just shy of tacky. The menu has Middle Eastern type meat plates and wraps and North African tagines, etc. Most plates were reasonably priced. It's a fine choice for a more upscale Middle Eastern experience.

Opt Out Options Tutorial

Although personal experience has made me doubt the efficacy of such programs, here is a list of some governmental services that propose to decrease Big Business' intrusion into your personal life. I'm sure it will be an exercise in futility. Either they ignore these toothless, watch dog groups (if they even watch) or there are so many loopholes written into the legislation that they become fanciful decoration. Some of these ask for personal info. They seem to be verified by the FTC website.

Florida Do Not Call List: www.fldnc.com or http://www.800helpfla.com/ or 1-800-HELP-FLA

Federal Do Not Call List: www.donotcall.gov

Pre-Approved Offers (ie credit/insurance) Opt Out List: www.optoutprescreen.com or 1-800-5-OPTOUT

Here is a cut and paste of the screen shot for the PAO Opt Out List from the FTC website at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre17.shtm. I learned of this through an ad in USA Today (if that makes it any less suspicious).

Prescreened Offers of Credit and Insurance


Mail Call: Bills, a letter from your Aunt Mary, a circular from a local department store, your monthly bank statement, and an offer for a new credit card that says you've been "prescreened" or "prequalified."

A "prescreened" offer of credit? What's that?

Many companies that solicit new credit card accounts and insurance policies use prescreening to identify potential customers for the products they offer. Prescreened offers — sometimes called "preapproved" offers — are based on information in your credit report that indicates you meet criteria set by the offeror. Usually, prescreened solicitations come via mail, but you also may get them in a phone call or in an email.

How does prescreening work?

Prescreening works in one of two ways: a creditor or insurer establishes criteria, like a minimum credit score, and asks a consumer reporting company for a list of people in the company's database who meet the criteria; or a creditor or insurer provides a list of potential customers to a consumer reporting company and asks the company to identify people on the list who meet certain criteria.

Can prescreening hurt my credit report or credit score?

No. There will be "inquiries" on your credit report showing which companies obtained your information for prescreening, but those inquiries will not have a negative effect on your credit report or credit score.

Can I reduce the number of unsolicited credit and insurance offers I get?

If you decide that you don't want to receive prescreened offers of credit and insurance, you have two choices: You can opt out of receiving them for five years or opt out of receiving them permanently.

To opt out for five years: Call toll-free 1-888-5-OPT-OUT (1-888-567-8688) or visit www.optoutprescreen.com. The phone number and website are operated by the major consumer reporting companies.

To opt out permanently: You may begin the permanent Opt-Out process online at www.optoutprescreeen.com. To complete your request, you must return the signed Permanent Opt-Out Election form, which will be provided after you initiate your online request.

When you call or visit the website, you'll be asked to provide certain personal information, including your home telephone number, name, Social Security number, and date of birth. The information you provide is confidential and will be used only to process your request to opt out.

If you don't have access to the Internet, you may send a written request to permanently opt out to each of the major consumer reporting companies. Make sure your request includes your home telephone number, name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Experian
Opt Out
P.O. Box 919
Allen, TX 75013

TransUnion
Name Removal Option
P.O. Box 505
Woodlyn, PA 19094

Equifax, Inc.
Options
P.O. Box 740123
Atlanta, GA 30374-0123

Innovis Consumer Assistance
P.O. Box 495
Pittsburgh, PA 15230-0495

Why would someone opt out — or not?

Some people prefer not to receive these kinds of offers in the mail, especially if they are not in the market for a new credit card or insurance policy. They may prefer to opt out to limit access to their credit report information for credit and insurance solicitations, or to reduce some mailbox "clutter." However, some companies send offers that are not based on prescreening, and your federal opt-out right will not stop those kinds of solicitations.

As you consider opting out, you should know that prescreened offers can provide many benefits, especially if you are in the market for a credit card or insurance. Prescreened offers can help you learn about what's available, compare costs, and find the best product for your needs. Because you are pre-selected to receive the offer, you can be turned down only under limited circumstances. The terms of prescreened offers also may be more favorable than those that are available to the general public. In fact, some credit card or insurance products may be available only through prescreened offers.

Does opting out hurt my credit score?

Removing your name from prescreened lists has no effect on your ability to apply for or obtain credit or insurance.

If I decide to opt out, how long will it be before I stop getting prescreened offers?

Requests to opt out are processed within five days, but it may take up to 60 days before you stop receiving prescreened offers.

What if I opt out and then change my mind?

You can use the same toll-free telephone number or website to opt back in.


Will calling 1-888-5-OPTOUT or visiting www.optoutprescreen.com stop all unsolicited offers of credit and insurance?

Calling the opt-out line or visiting the website will stop the prescreened solicitations that are based on lists from the major consumer reporting companies. You may continue to get solicitations for credit and insurance based on lists from other sources. For example, opting out won't end solicitations from local merchants, religious and charitable associations, professional and alumni associations, and companies with which you already conduct business. To stop mail from groups like these — as well as mail addressed to "occupant" or "resident" — you must contact each source directly.

What other opt-out programs should I know about?

The federal government's National Do Not Call Registry is a free, easy way to reduce the telemarketing calls you get at home. To register your phone number or to get information about the registry, visit www.donotcall.gov, or call 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you want to register. You will get fewer telemarketing calls within 31 days of registering your number. Telephone numbers on the registry will only be removed when they are disconnected and reassigned, or when you choose to remove a number from the registry.

The Direct Marketing Association's (DMA) Mail Preference Service (MPS) lets you opt out of receiving unsolicited commercial mail from many national companies for five years. When you register with this service, your name will be put on a "delete" file and made available to direct-mail marketers and organizations. This will reduce most of your unsolicited mail. However, your registration will not stop mailings from organizations that do not use the DMA's Mail Preference Service. To register with DMA's Mail Preference Service, go to www.dmachoice.org, or mail your request with a $1 processing fee to:

DMAchoice
Direct Marketing Association
P.O. Box 643
Carmel, NY 10512

The DMA also has an Email Preference Service (eMPS) to help you reduce unsolicited commercial emails. To opt out of receiving unsolicited commercial email from DMA members, visit www.dmachoice.org. Registration is free and good for six years.

The FTC works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and avoid them. To file a complaint or get free information on consumer issues, visit ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. Watch a video, How to File a Complaint, at ftc.gov/video to learn more. The FTC enters consumer complaints into the Consumer Sentinel Network, a secure online database and investigative tool used by hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.


Disclaimer: I only have tried the DNC Lists so far (maybe the junk mail thing long ago). I can't vouch for any of these services.

Marco's Pizza, Altamonte Springs

I ordered a Italian Sausage sub to go today from this chain Italian place on 434 in the market place that has Carraba's. It was $6. A combo was $7. It wasn't that bad. the sausage isn't in casing, but, it had flavor. The marinara sauce wasn't that bad. The cheese had some flavor. It came with alot of canned mushrooms. The roll wasn't bad. It came hot out of their conveyor style pizza inferno. They say they sell "authentic Italian pizza". I don't remember the boys in Naples offering a ranch dressing crust or pineapple. However, they may not be the worst of breed in this category. Obviously, I have nothing to go on regarding the non-sub food stuffs. They offer other subs, wings, nuggets, salad, cinnasquares, cheezybread, etc. The place was cleanish. It is more of a take out facility. It has four seats at a counter. They are originally out of Ohio. It just recently opened. The staff (2) was nice.

Triple 8 Cafe (888), Altamonte Springs

I had lunch today at this Chinese/Italian/American restaurant on 434 near 436. It's in a decrepit old fast food shanty that recently housed Asian Express. It opened recently. I had a Thai Chicken Wrap with a soda for $5 (even with tax). It came in a tortilla! The chicken was from a bag (fake chicken bits cobbled out of chemicals and fillers). The kind fast food restaurants put on your salad. The lettuce was iceberg. It also had small amounts of cucumber, onion and tomato. The peanut sauce was ok. I'm not sure what to make of this place. The ad said the meal was to be prepared by the former executive chef of the Flamingo Hilton. I'm still not sure if that is a recommendation. I'm serious. The Flamingo has been relevant since Bugsy and even then I'm not sure it was known for its food. We could be talking king of the 99 cent buffet here. Anyway. The place is a shambles. They didn't improve anything (it needed it). Weeds grow out of the foundation (nice curb appeal). The glass they gave me was sticky. The table wasn't wiped down. The AC barely functioned. The menus (wall, hand held, to go) don't match up. The sign says Chinese and Italian (everybody's favorite combo), but, inside they tout American. There are definitely some deals here (although two french dips at Arby's only cost $4 with a coupon). I just wouldn't show about expecting more than fast food quality in a crackhouse environment. Which makes the inclusion of what some might consider a selling point (credentialed Executive Chef) a question mark. If you are going for the lowest rung on the ladder, why do you need/market someone of that caliber to steer the ship? This seems like a poor match. But, maybe the guy is just ashes in a can above the stove and this is some inventive puffery. If not, I strongly suggest they take a broom or a match to this place asap and then start over with a plan that makes use of their golden goose. That means a nice place with an ambitious menu with price points to match. If not, I advise them to save money and not advertise. Your eventual customer base will only consist of poor people from the neighborhood (like the last place) if you don't change what you are doing. The biggest risk you now face is having someone show up and sample your restaurant. No one of quality would ever go back.

Fresh Box Seafood, Sanford

I had lunch to go at this seafood shop and fry house yesterday. It's in what used to be a vegetable market at the spot where they held a farmer's market on 17-92 (maybe they still do). I had fried oysters (6) with fried shrimp (5) and french fries for $6. The seafood was over breaded. About 2/3rds of the mass was air or breading. The seafood was of poor quality, but, didn't give me food poisoning. That was all that I was hoping for. The batter is probably their hush puppy batter. It was sweet. The french fries probably needed an extra two minutes in the fryer. They were woefully undercooked. The spot could be "industrially" cute. It is a big open, white space. They may have to improve the food to draw awareness and add on sales. However, since it is in the ghetto and run by Asians, I wouldn't bet on that approach. I think they will try and keep prices low to cater to the locales who have no sense of taste (or can't afford it if they do). I foresee another occupant (if any) in a few months. No one was there when I was there. As such, it's hard to tell if it is open. I initially drove by. They are also a little stubborn. I tried to sample the steamed crabs, but, they said I had to buy three pounds or none at all. How hard is it to put two fingers deep of water in a pot and cover it? It's just as hard to fry something. They had a decent selection of fish. I will not vouch for its' (or any fish at this point) freshness. They even sold odd pieces (heads, etc). They had charts that told you where they were imported from. I hope they do enough volume to succeed and keep quality acceptable. Maybe some pretentious locovores will eschew Publix for them for their fish needs. It does have the appeal of a stand alone market. I hope they have their line of bullshit ready when they are peppered with questions about the fish's "provenance". They have bben open for five months.

The White Cup, Sanford

I had a mango smoothie at this coffeehouse yesterday. I don't drink them so I can't tell you if it was any good. I just wasn't ordering coffee when it was over 90 degrees out. It's mostly girlie drinks. They had some pastries and PB&J. I have to believe that these places are a prime reason for the obesity problem in women over the last ten years. They think that because the word "coffee" is involved that all the crap they put into it doesn't factor in. This place is mostly a stage. They must sponsor alot of live music shows. They stay open pretty late. When I first came in, I thought it was a music shop that didn't take down the coffeehouse sign. The art on the wall (for sale) further confused me. The food and drinks are in the back. It's not my scene. Bars with live "noise" are bad enough. I don't get why anyone would put up with it sober. Maybe this is the next step for recovering alcoholic baby boomers or millenials on prescription drugs. The people were nice so I don't want to discourage you if this is your thing. It just doesn't have anything outstanding to recommend itself. It is on 1st St.  

Chirico, Orlando

I popped in to this Chinese/Puerto Rican (hence the name I guess) restaurant on my way back from the airport on Friday night. It's on 436. It was closing in ten minutes (10 pm) so I could only order something to go. It was just as well because it doesn't look that great inside. I have passed this place for years and I even remember checking it out once (because of its big sign), but, I could have sworn it looked closed when I checked. Well. obviously it isn't. The food wasn't that bad. I wanted chicken enchilada, but, somehow they heard chicken anaranjado (Orange Chicken). It cost $6.50. It didn't make me sick. It had some nice white meat pieces. The sauce wasn't too syrupy. The fried rice might have been cooked that day. I'm not sure how Puerto Rican this menu is. Tostones, mofongo and fried pork chops are the only evidence (other than the bilingual menu) of that cuisine. This place is a high volume, cheap Chinese take out joint with some booth seating. Don't rush to experience it.

Chianti's, Sanford

I went to this "pizza and pasta" restaurant on Towne Center Blvd today. I was pleasantly sur-shocked with the result. First off, you must know that it is near the Smokey Bones where a drive thru pizza place used to be (not in the Mall). Next, you must know it is very well thought out. It's not a four star spot. It's not adventurous. It is simply a sensibly envisioned restaurant. It is as if one of those restaurant fix it shows came in and fixed it before it opened. They repainted the room and added wainscoting to the walls. The color choices are earthy. The tables are black, simple, unclothed and cute. They could have been sensibly purchased at Ikea. The kitchen is humongous and open like before. They added booths to the wall that had the soda machine. They kept the counters by the side windows. They put up two adorable chalkboards (where they list specials/events). The table wear is rustic. Cloth napkins. They even "hid" the flat screen a little so it doesn't feel like a sports bar. Jazz and lounge music plays softly in the air. It seats about fifty. There were five sets of tables served while I was there. They have been open for two months. I only learned about them through some flier in the mail that offered a free bottle of Chianti if you came in (the waitress said something about a special with wine, but, it required you buy two dinners - see if it is a different special or if they are playing games). I wasn't sure if they did lunch. I'm glad I checked. The menu is pretty basic for an Italian restaurant. The usual appetizers (plus Italian chicken wings). Three soups. Four salads. Five sandwiches (includes a burger). Ten pastas. Ten entrees (including steak). Five desserts. And pizza (they say brick oven). Most things are under $15. They have craft beers. I didn't see the wine list. The lunch specials are really affordable. I had a turkey club (sub) with lettuce, tomato, mozzarella, bacon, and a basil mayo for $6 (I wanted one all week). I then had a Big Meat pizza (pepperoni, sausage, ham, should have had meatball) plus a field green salad and a huge soda for $7. Cheaper than Subway. The pizza was good. 12" personal size. It was thin. The toppings were good. I've had it hot, warm and cold so far. It holds up each way. Three slices to go. Can it survive the microwave? The salad was fairly good. The dressing could have been a little less old fashioned and the greens could have been fresher and could do without canned olives, but, it is moving in the right direction and better than you get most places. The service (1) was good. She seemed to care. I would have sworn she had some skin in the game, but, I heard her telling someone she just likes what they are doing and how they are doing it. I do too. The chef (I'm guessing owner) even came out to see how we all were enjoying our meals. I also heard them talking to some couple about caring for a cake they brought in for some event they are celebrating there later this weekend. The chef couldn't have been more accommodating. As if, the affordable prices, popular menu items, classic redecorating and tasteful embellishments weren't enough. I'm so glad I found this place. It is exactly what I think a restaurant should be. It is not a monument to someone's ego. It isn't tacky. It isn't provincial. It isn't thrown together. It is humble. It is tasteful. It is chic. It is well thought out. It's a perfect compromise of obsessive omnivorism with value. They seem to know what the trends are and smart enough to employ the right kind in the right measure. I wish them luck. This place is perfect to put into your weekly rotation or for a special event. If they supplement the "greatest hits" menu with a few ambitious specials I may fall in love. And remember, this was a review for a mid-priced Italian restaurant that I thought was a chain.    

Grub Crawl - Winter Park : Daily Express, Chung On, Bubbalou's (Closed)

I had lunch at these places on Lee Rd on Tuesday. Everybody knows where Bubbalou's is and the other places are across the street from that.

Daily Express - They call themselves a deli and grill. I had a roast beef sandwich for $5 (deli). It was bad. The roast beef was too peppered and plasticky. The rye was store bought, The veggies were tasteless (ie iceberg). It looked like a small, cute diner. I would expect that the grilled items were better. They do breakfast. Try them for those things. They close at 2pm.

Chung On - Chinese takeout. I had a shrimp stuffed egg roll (under $2) and wonton soup (under $3). It looked too scary to attempt more. It wasn't that bad. The soup had flavor and they were generous with the wontons (4). The eggroll wasn't greasy. It had two tiny shrimp in it (I was surprised to get that much). The place is tiny. Maybe the smallest takeout I have ever been to. They don't help matters by having their junk piled up near the counter. It smelled like fish. The menu is ordinary. I think these places place a pre-made takeout menu order and then try to learn how to cook those dishes.

Bubbalou's - Barbeque. I had a brisket sandwich for $6. It was ok. I just don't love sliced brisket. I want a hunk or thicker slices. Slicing it thin takes all the texture out. Plus they use a wet sauce to top it. I'm just over that and I think I'm over them. There are just too many better competitors now. I think I just go back here for nostalgia.

Briarpatch, Winter Park

I had lunch at this Park Avenue staple last week. It wasn't my first time, but, my first time in a long time. I had some sort of breakfast combo that had two pancakes, eggs, and sausage for around $10 (they kept the copy with the breakdown). They also added on $2.50 for toast that the waitress said was included. It wasn't. She said it was her first week so I didn't under tip her as punishment. Still, I love how restaurants gauge you on sides. Shameless. The eggs were scrambled. I forgot to indicate how I wanted them (fried) in the confusion of the ordering. They were ok. Seemed fresh. It's hard to gauge quality on a scrambled item. They were (what I call) "lazily" scrambled - allowed to sit on the the grill and then folded over. That's how you do omelets not scrambled eggs. The sausage was alright. A little to mealy (over ground like bologna) and bland. I prefer a coarser chop (where you can see the fat) and some spice. But, that's not what they buy. The toast was from a rustic kind of loaf. The pancakes were the best. I don't even like them as a rule. But, these tasted like a cross between light pound cake and sugar cookies. The insides were light, but, the outsides were crisp. It was if they torched sugar on them. I asked for the secret. They wouldn't reveal it. The place seats about twenty outside and thirty inside. It is supposed to resemble some antiquated southern country house (inside and out). The outside is a replica of a porch. Inside they try for a similar effect. I guess it is supposed to remind you of a time when women served comfort food and sweets to their family. The dishes are a little more food forward than that. The son of the original owner is now in charge and the menu has some insouciance to it. I can't recall if it has been updated (it has been to long), but, I feel safe in assuming that a younger overseer wouldn't just leave things as they were. The service was ok. We had some communication issues. The meal came out pretty quickly. There were plenty of servers per table. It's a tradition. It doesn't need my approval. It's not exactly the type of place I enjoy (except in an ironical way), but, it is unique. I don't love the selection (girl food), but, I can love watching the people who do. I think it is about 20% overpriced. However, that is because I am spending my money and not somebody else's. And I guess if you think of Winter Park as a tourist spot, it is in line with how they would overcharge you at any comfort food nook in Nantucket or Sanibel, etc.

Addendum to the Central Forida Hospital Tutorial

I just read in today's (May 1, 2012) USA Today of a tactic hospitals and insurance companies are using to screw you out of more of your hard earned money. I would have added it to the hospital post, but, I no longer trust the editing tool on this blog. When I edited the roofing post, it left out whole sections and it was a pain recreating it.

The article said that hospitals are designating you as "observation care" and then using a loophole to charge you for ridiculously priced drugs. There are no price limits/guidelines. The problem gets worse because many coverage plans (especially Medicare) won't cover non-covered services. This includes self-administered drugs given to them in the hospital. You may think you have been "admitted" and your coverage applies, but, you would be wrong. Some patients are in the hospital for days and still not designated as "admitted". The hospitals justify this by saying that you not well enough to go home, but, not sick enough to be admitted.

The article suggests you try and bring in your own pills in original bottles. But, hospitals are not required to let you use them. It also recommends that you try and apply for the hospital's charity care program. Also, see if your insurer requires that hospitals with which it has contracts notify a member before delivering a non-covered service (Medicare and even Advantage does not have this requirement). The article says that there is a route to appeal the charges, but, doesn't say what it is. They suggest contacting a consumer advocacy group if you have a problem. They don't list them.

I'm not sure how you argue with them over your designation, but, ask what it is before you agree to their treatment. Especially, if it is for drugs you already buy/have. They will probably give you another brand though and say it is different. Right?

I have no idea if the local hospitals are doing this. I didn't check my status. I don't have insurance.