I tried these spots on N. Alafaya Trail as part two of my lunch/dinner to go date on Monday. Part of the reason I ate so meekly in Winter Park. The first is in a strip mall at the south west intersection of 50 and Alafaya Trail. The second is farther down Alafaya towards Waterford Lakes. The third is next to the second.
Lucky's Market - This is a Whole Foods-esque type supermarket out of Boulder. I found the selection (though pup-ified) to be decent. Alot of "off/artisan" brands. A bigger wine and beer selection than World Market. Prices were cheaper than Publix on the few items I cared about looking into (papaya, rotisserie chicken and sushi). A weightier papaya was sold there at $4. Flat price. No by the pound. I spent $6 for a 2.5 lber (theirs were over 3lbs by eye) yesterday at Publix. A rotisserie chicken was $5. I'm pretty sure it's $2 more at Publix or even Winn Dixie. Sushi seemed a buck or so lower per container. I went there for a looky loo and for the $5 pizza deal (two slices and a beer). Italian was another thing I hadn't had in a while. The pizza (even slices with toppings) should have been better. They have a real pizza oven. I guess you can only rise so high if the dough and cheese are cheap. Plus the cheese ratio was too high. Tasted like a grilled cheese. You might like that. It was acceptable though. I grabbed a pepperoni and plain slice. They also let me sub out the beer for root beer. They opened around June. I think one more is on the way.
Halal Guys - They are a food cart in NYC. I couldn't make out from the blown up photos on the wall if I have ever had the pleasure. A quick perusal of my food journal (yes I keep one for trips) and my travel guide (yes I keep a photo journal on my phone) yielded no evidence that I had. Perhaps I tried them when I lived there. There are alot of carts doing what they do. I just searched them for you and they are at 53rd and Sixth. I just might have. Anyway. This is their first brick and mortar in CF. I think they might be a franchiser if you can believe it. They offer just a few things. Sandwiches. Platters. Sides. Desserts. Beef or chicken (or a mix) or falafel. Hummus and baba ghanouj as sides. And baklava as dessert. That's it. I had a "mixed" gyro for $7 and an order of two falafel for $2. The sandwich was served on a thick pita. The beef was "loafy" and bland. The chicken had more texture and flavor. Both we pre-shaved. A no no in my book. The falafel was ok. It was also not fried in front of me. I kind of expected more from all the hoopla I had heard about them. They offer a white a red (very hot) sauce. I chose both and onions. It comes with lettuce and tomato and anything (ie jalapenos, olives, hummus) else is extra. I think I like the gyro place (was it Oh My Gyro?) in Longwood better. Seemed tastier. Fresher. But, they aren't bad. Prices are good. I'm not sure if it is destination. The place looks like subway sandwich shop. Meaning it is clean with little character. Service was fast. It opened in September.
5 F(X) Ice Cream - This was a chance encounter, but, I think I liked this place the best. Part of the reason I don't use "dating" apps. No surprises. Or at least ones that are pleasant. They make their own ice cream and taiyaki. Not pour candy into ice cream and blend it. They MAKE milk and soy based ice cream in front of you while you wait. And they make a pancake like dessert for you as well. It can be stuffed. It can be sweet or savory. I didn't comprehend the extent of the ice cream service until I was on the way out. I ordered a taiyaki stuffed with apples and cinnamon for $2 just to order something. I know Tai means red snapper in Japanese and Yaki usually means something fried (like Takoyaki - fried octopus balls). I believe this food category is called this because they mold the batter into the shape of a cartoonish fish. Probably a red snapper. The woman behind the counter wasn't Japanese and didn't know. The taiyaki was good. Fresh. Duh. I was just expecting a batter with apple and cinnamon flavor. It had real filling. If it took less time, McDonald's could/should emulate them. They also had other combos. Even one with a hot dog. I also think they had other items. Maybe milkshakes and a few other things. The place looks a little messy in the "cooking" area. The walls are filled with Polaroid shots of customers and not much else. The curb appeal could be improved. They have been open for three years. A nice break from the norm.
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Thursday, December 21, 2017
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Grub Crawl - Winter Park: Wonton, Tea and Tea and Mon Petit Cheri
I was going to go to OBT for some Mexican and Chinese because I hadn't had any in two weeks, but, I decided to knock these out while checking if a new spot on Park Ave was open yet. It isn't. The first place is at the intersection of 17-92 and Fairbanks. The second is behind the 7-11 on Fairbanks and Park. The third is at the first light on Park. I went to these places for lunch on Monday.
Wonton Asian Kitchen - I thought this would be a Pei Wei knockoff, but, it is a one off. They serve a medley of Asian dishes. Korean. Vietnamese. Japanese. Thai. Chinese. I just ordered two small dishes because this wasn't my final lunch destination. I had two pork dumplings for $2 and a Chickity something or other Summer Roll for $2.50. I was going to try chicken lettuce wraps, but, they were out of them. I like that they have small portion sizes. Usually you have to order 5 to 9 dumplings and a pair of rolls. The way they are set up, you can try a bunch of things. The dumplings were ok. They had a thin skin. They were steamed. One was split open. The roll was mostly vegetables. The chicken was barely discernible. These items were starters. They have more of these and soup. They also have about a dozen entrees. even bahn mi. The design is a step above a fast casual place. The floor plan is open. They have brick walls. The kitchen is exposed. They opened three weeks ago. I would try them again.
Tea and Tea - I grabbed a Waikiki cold tea for $4. It tasted like Sunny D. Had slices of orange, lemon and apple. Is apple a Hawaiian delicacy? They also serve milk tea and one other kind (can you tell this isn't my bag?). You can add boba to the teas. They used to be in the Winter Park Village. They have been here for one month. Was B Cupcakes.
Mon Petit Cheri - I've been to this location before. I hope I reviewed that place and not this. I forgot to check. They are mainly a French inspired breakfast and lunch spot. Nothing too fancy. Crepes. Burgers. Sandwiches. Pizza. Salads. Quiche. Breakfasts. Pastries. Hot Drinks. I had the poached eggs and bacon on an English muffin. The eggs were over cooked. The bacon was crisp. The muffin (sour dough) was under toasted. Not a strong showing for how long it took to get out. It cost $8.50. It came with a side of fresh fruit. I'll trade you the fruit for $3 of 4 back in my wallet. The place was dependent on natural light and as such was gloomy. Can't imagine it on a cloudy day. They have a few seats out front and a patio in back. There is an indoor area in between. A few small tables, the register and a bar. Decoration is an afterthought. They are open from 7ish to 4pm every day. They stay open for a dinner on Friday. They have been there for three years. A fine place if you want a little French comfort food. The chef/owner apparently has won some recent contest for best dessert.
*I wanted Mexican or Chinese because I was in New Zealand for the last two weeks and didn't trust them on Mexican and just didn't order much Chinese. I ate alot of sushi, salmon and meat pies. Some new experiences and popular items were: mussel pattie/fritter, marmite, gunard, elephant fish, toasted sandwiches, smoked mussels, oysters, fish cake, venison salami and an ice cream sandwich of macaroons. I never tried fresh crayfish (lobster) or the blue cod they were raving about. I also tried my first Sri Lankan dish (I think). It was called Kottu Rottich. I also had something called Tulsi Murtabak. It wasn't my first try, but, I had Hokkien Mee (Malay/Singapore Chinese dish named after a province). Little sushi places were everywhere. You moved down a line and paid by the piece. They also had almost every fast food franchise (including Pita Pit). I had a meat pie at McDonald's. Mostly gravy.
Wonton Asian Kitchen - I thought this would be a Pei Wei knockoff, but, it is a one off. They serve a medley of Asian dishes. Korean. Vietnamese. Japanese. Thai. Chinese. I just ordered two small dishes because this wasn't my final lunch destination. I had two pork dumplings for $2 and a Chickity something or other Summer Roll for $2.50. I was going to try chicken lettuce wraps, but, they were out of them. I like that they have small portion sizes. Usually you have to order 5 to 9 dumplings and a pair of rolls. The way they are set up, you can try a bunch of things. The dumplings were ok. They had a thin skin. They were steamed. One was split open. The roll was mostly vegetables. The chicken was barely discernible. These items were starters. They have more of these and soup. They also have about a dozen entrees. even bahn mi. The design is a step above a fast casual place. The floor plan is open. They have brick walls. The kitchen is exposed. They opened three weeks ago. I would try them again.
Tea and Tea - I grabbed a Waikiki cold tea for $4. It tasted like Sunny D. Had slices of orange, lemon and apple. Is apple a Hawaiian delicacy? They also serve milk tea and one other kind (can you tell this isn't my bag?). You can add boba to the teas. They used to be in the Winter Park Village. They have been here for one month. Was B Cupcakes.
Mon Petit Cheri - I've been to this location before. I hope I reviewed that place and not this. I forgot to check. They are mainly a French inspired breakfast and lunch spot. Nothing too fancy. Crepes. Burgers. Sandwiches. Pizza. Salads. Quiche. Breakfasts. Pastries. Hot Drinks. I had the poached eggs and bacon on an English muffin. The eggs were over cooked. The bacon was crisp. The muffin (sour dough) was under toasted. Not a strong showing for how long it took to get out. It cost $8.50. It came with a side of fresh fruit. I'll trade you the fruit for $3 of 4 back in my wallet. The place was dependent on natural light and as such was gloomy. Can't imagine it on a cloudy day. They have a few seats out front and a patio in back. There is an indoor area in between. A few small tables, the register and a bar. Decoration is an afterthought. They are open from 7ish to 4pm every day. They stay open for a dinner on Friday. They have been there for three years. A fine place if you want a little French comfort food. The chef/owner apparently has won some recent contest for best dessert.
*I wanted Mexican or Chinese because I was in New Zealand for the last two weeks and didn't trust them on Mexican and just didn't order much Chinese. I ate alot of sushi, salmon and meat pies. Some new experiences and popular items were: mussel pattie/fritter, marmite, gunard, elephant fish, toasted sandwiches, smoked mussels, oysters, fish cake, venison salami and an ice cream sandwich of macaroons. I never tried fresh crayfish (lobster) or the blue cod they were raving about. I also tried my first Sri Lankan dish (I think). It was called Kottu Rottich. I also had something called Tulsi Murtabak. It wasn't my first try, but, I had Hokkien Mee (Malay/Singapore Chinese dish named after a province). Little sushi places were everywhere. You moved down a line and paid by the piece. They also had almost every fast food franchise (including Pita Pit). I had a meat pie at McDonald's. Mostly gravy.
Monday, December 18, 2017
Willie's Pinchos, East Colonial
I tried this Puerto Rican spot on Golden Rod near 50 on Sunday night. It was the Fieri "book end" to my trip out of town in that they were featured on an episode of Triple D that aired last year at this time. I haven't seen it as yet and didn't know that when I went here. I saw them when I tried that Mexican place a few months back. It was always closed when I have tried them since that visit. I had a pernil sandwich for $9. It was pulled pork and mayo an lettuce and tomato. It was ok. The pork was too salty. The portion was a bit skimpy. I think they wet down the meat with the saved marinade and pork drippings. I think that is kind of a cheat. The meat should retain that juice with constant basting. It shouldn't be "refreshed" before serving. Plus, I don't need it that soggy. The meat also had a bone in it. How non-observant do you have to be to miss a big round bone while portioning out an inch of pork? I, also, don't love sweet mayo with the sweet/savory pork. It's too "one note". It needs something spicy or vibrant or both. The bun/roll was excellent. I think most of the pernils I've had were pressed. This wasn't. It came with crinkle cut fries. They were very crisp. The rest of menu is breakfast items, burgers, mofungo, skewers, hot dogs, sandwiches and sandwiches on fried tostones that I believe were called Jibertos. The sandwiches were near the top in price. They are open until 7pm most days (not Monday for now). The place seats only twenty or so. It looks like a tiny cantina. They used to be a food truck. I think they said they have been in this spot for a year. They are opening a new place in Kissimmee soon. I would go back to try something else. They were very nice and seemed to care about the quality of their food.
Grub Crawl - Disney Springs: Planet Hollywood, The Ganachery and Ghiradelli Chocolate
I ventured back to the Mouse Trap before heading to the airport around two weeks ago. I tried these spots at Disney Springs. Who knew that Guy Fieri would end up book ending my trip. But, more on that in the next post.
Planet Hollywood - I knew this would be an expensive waste of time and I was mostly right. I had a Plain Jane Cheeseburger for $18. And a coke was a mere $4. The cheeseburger was non-descript. I can barely remember it two weeks later. I bet the one at the burger restaurant a few yards away is better at half the price. And that is no bargain to start with. It came with a cone of mixed fries. Waffle. And I really can't remember the others. Maybe shoe string and curly? I think they had an offensive seasoning on them. The rest of the menu is so humdrum (and equally over-priced) that I think a room service waiter would be embarrassed to serve it. So, a perfect fit with Disney. The one "interesting" item was a fried lasagna something or other. I'm sure it is another Fieri fail (he supervised the re-do) though. Maybe Kat Cora can come in and try and make it healthy like she did at Taco Bell. Bring on all the celebrity douche bag sell outs. The service was lacking. The waitress was polite enough, but, the burger took a half hour to appear. I think the kitchen lost the order. Plus the hostess tried to seat me directly across the swinging door to the kitchen (with other low volume tables open). Nearly half of the area I was sitting in has a view of this eye sore. Nice design planning. And the door is really noticeable. One of those "old timey" doors you see on a ship or the interior of a hotel kitchen. Just terrible. Now, it has been like a decade since I was last in the old place, but, I think it used to be much bigger. Now it feels minuscule. I think they went in and up. The place has three of four levels. I think the old design was all open space. Only the bottom floor was open. It has "my area" at the entrance and a bar to the left and another seating area a step below. They still have the memorabilia (mostly costumes). They play music videos from movies (mostly-to all Disney owned). They have an outside bar called Stargazers (or maybe catchers) that rims the wall. I'm not sure if I understood that the old design was supposed to be an observatory or if they just re-imagined it as that now. That works. I guess it makes more sense than a steel globe. I'm not sure what it has to do with "the movies" (maybe it's supposed to be the Griffth Observatory (which it doesn't look like at all). I had a view of the gift shop (of course). Hard pass from me. I'll wait for the all you can eat free Fieri burger bar on my next cruise. They finally opened in June. I think.
The Ganachery - I'm not sure it deserves the "the", but, it was fine. They make chocolates on site. I had a coconut lollipop for a mere $6. It was described as having fresh coconut under the chocolate, but, it was mostly coconut flavor. You can by chocolates by the piece or by the box. Nice presentation (packaging). I'd save the cost and drop the price. But, I don't understand those who shop for their self-worth. They know their market.
Ghiradelli Chocolate - This place was further away from the newly renovated area. They make it look like an old fashioned ice cream parlor. I had a chocolate cone for $5. A big scoop of ordinary ice cream. It could have been any brand. Another time I've had Ghiradelli chocolate and wondered how they became famous for it. The are like Whitman's Sampler. Another mystery. Why haven't they been called out? You would think that the food snob mafia would have taken a baseball bat to this representative of middle class taste. They also have other desserts. You order at a register and pick it up at the counter. It has been there forever.
Planet Hollywood - I knew this would be an expensive waste of time and I was mostly right. I had a Plain Jane Cheeseburger for $18. And a coke was a mere $4. The cheeseburger was non-descript. I can barely remember it two weeks later. I bet the one at the burger restaurant a few yards away is better at half the price. And that is no bargain to start with. It came with a cone of mixed fries. Waffle. And I really can't remember the others. Maybe shoe string and curly? I think they had an offensive seasoning on them. The rest of the menu is so humdrum (and equally over-priced) that I think a room service waiter would be embarrassed to serve it. So, a perfect fit with Disney. The one "interesting" item was a fried lasagna something or other. I'm sure it is another Fieri fail (he supervised the re-do) though. Maybe Kat Cora can come in and try and make it healthy like she did at Taco Bell. Bring on all the celebrity douche bag sell outs. The service was lacking. The waitress was polite enough, but, the burger took a half hour to appear. I think the kitchen lost the order. Plus the hostess tried to seat me directly across the swinging door to the kitchen (with other low volume tables open). Nearly half of the area I was sitting in has a view of this eye sore. Nice design planning. And the door is really noticeable. One of those "old timey" doors you see on a ship or the interior of a hotel kitchen. Just terrible. Now, it has been like a decade since I was last in the old place, but, I think it used to be much bigger. Now it feels minuscule. I think they went in and up. The place has three of four levels. I think the old design was all open space. Only the bottom floor was open. It has "my area" at the entrance and a bar to the left and another seating area a step below. They still have the memorabilia (mostly costumes). They play music videos from movies (mostly-to all Disney owned). They have an outside bar called Stargazers (or maybe catchers) that rims the wall. I'm not sure if I understood that the old design was supposed to be an observatory or if they just re-imagined it as that now. That works. I guess it makes more sense than a steel globe. I'm not sure what it has to do with "the movies" (maybe it's supposed to be the Griffth Observatory (which it doesn't look like at all). I had a view of the gift shop (of course). Hard pass from me. I'll wait for the all you can eat free Fieri burger bar on my next cruise. They finally opened in June. I think.
The Ganachery - I'm not sure it deserves the "the", but, it was fine. They make chocolates on site. I had a coconut lollipop for a mere $6. It was described as having fresh coconut under the chocolate, but, it was mostly coconut flavor. You can by chocolates by the piece or by the box. Nice presentation (packaging). I'd save the cost and drop the price. But, I don't understand those who shop for their self-worth. They know their market.
Ghiradelli Chocolate - This place was further away from the newly renovated area. They make it look like an old fashioned ice cream parlor. I had a chocolate cone for $5. A big scoop of ordinary ice cream. It could have been any brand. Another time I've had Ghiradelli chocolate and wondered how they became famous for it. The are like Whitman's Sampler. Another mystery. Why haven't they been called out? You would think that the food snob mafia would have taken a baseball bat to this representative of middle class taste. They also have other desserts. You order at a register and pick it up at the counter. It has been there forever.
Thursday, November 30, 2017
Gianni's, Mount Dora
I had dinner at this Italian restaurant today. It is on N. Alexander (one street closer to the lake). It was fine. The menu seemed ambitious yet accessible. I would give it higher marks if my meal was fine tuned. I had chicken prosciutto spinachi with a side of spaghetti for $18. The chicken and spaghetti were prepared properly. The sauce was a mess. It was a cream sauce. I think they used half and half or maybe just milk. The wine they used was stale and wasn't cooked off. I even think they used margarine. There were more than one "off" flavor. And there was way too much of it. A puddle of calories. Ham handed execution. The prosciutto was thick. For the record. The menu had some interesting things like a pear and cheese pasta (statra-something) and a half duck. The special was pumpkin ravioli. The items I saw delivered to other tables seemed fresh. Prices were between the mid teens and mid-twenties. They served some bread that was cut into triangles and pre-soaked in olive oil. That was a first. Should be copied. The place has a patio and two floors. The place has some charm (exposed beams), but it isn't all it could be. The wall art is a bit scatter shot. The trim looks like it was never touched up. The furniture is a bit old. On the plus side, there is a lot of room between tables. Service was good. Prompt. Knowledgeable. Polite. I'd give them a second chance. They have been there for four years. It is next to the German restaurant.
*They have the Christmas lights up in downtown Mount Dora. It's a charming scene.
**This will be the last post for a little while. I'm sure we are all relieved. The most popular seemed to be the one at Disney. It makes me laugh to think that it is because tourists are clicking on it. I imagine little Johnie asking his parents what "premature ejaculating" on "my tuna's tits" means.
*They have the Christmas lights up in downtown Mount Dora. It's a charming scene.
**This will be the last post for a little while. I'm sure we are all relieved. The most popular seemed to be the one at Disney. It makes me laugh to think that it is because tourists are clicking on it. I imagine little Johnie asking his parents what "premature ejaculating" on "my tuna's tits" means.
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Grub Crawl - John Young Pkwy And Sand Lake Rd Area: House of Pho and Latin Square
I grabbed a meal to go at these two places in the strip mall at the intersection of Sand Lake and John Young on Monday.
House of Pho - I wanted to compare and contrast them with the pho I had on Sunday. In their favor, it didn't lead to repeated trips to the toilet. Now, for a HOUSE of Pho, it is really just a pan-Asian restaurant. Their entree section is largely Chinese and the only other Vietnamese stuff is rice and noodle dishes. I tried the fried pork spring rolls for $5 (all apps are $5) and a brisket, flank and tendon pho (small) for $9. The rolls (3) were spongy. Too much pork. More like an egg roll. The pork had little flavor. The pho was fine. A little less meat than the other place. I did get a recognizable tendon though. The meat was good. They use a thin rice noodle. The vegetables were standard fare and fresh. It's a big room. Prices were in line. Some interesting things on the menu are: goat hot pot and shrimp and honey glazed walnuts. They have been open for a year. They close at 9pm and not a second later. I tried to get something to go a few months ago and they denied me.
Latin Square - While walking to my car, I saw them and didn't want to travel back here again for a run through. It turns out that I had been to there original location downtown already. However, the $5 quarter chicken with side (a huge serving of roasted potatoes in my case) is worth a repeat visit any time. The chicken (large bird) was good. side of chimichurri sauce. The potatoes as well. They also have a separate Venezuelan menu. The standard menu had PR, Cuban and Latin American fare. This location has been open for a year. The place is all new. It has a buffet line type ordering process. Great value. Big selection. They also do breakfast. Not sure about dinner.
*John Young in this area is under construction. Ingress and egress to the area is more complicated than ever.
House of Pho - I wanted to compare and contrast them with the pho I had on Sunday. In their favor, it didn't lead to repeated trips to the toilet. Now, for a HOUSE of Pho, it is really just a pan-Asian restaurant. Their entree section is largely Chinese and the only other Vietnamese stuff is rice and noodle dishes. I tried the fried pork spring rolls for $5 (all apps are $5) and a brisket, flank and tendon pho (small) for $9. The rolls (3) were spongy. Too much pork. More like an egg roll. The pork had little flavor. The pho was fine. A little less meat than the other place. I did get a recognizable tendon though. The meat was good. They use a thin rice noodle. The vegetables were standard fare and fresh. It's a big room. Prices were in line. Some interesting things on the menu are: goat hot pot and shrimp and honey glazed walnuts. They have been open for a year. They close at 9pm and not a second later. I tried to get something to go a few months ago and they denied me.
Latin Square - While walking to my car, I saw them and didn't want to travel back here again for a run through. It turns out that I had been to there original location downtown already. However, the $5 quarter chicken with side (a huge serving of roasted potatoes in my case) is worth a repeat visit any time. The chicken (large bird) was good. side of chimichurri sauce. The potatoes as well. They also have a separate Venezuelan menu. The standard menu had PR, Cuban and Latin American fare. This location has been open for a year. The place is all new. It has a buffet line type ordering process. Great value. Big selection. They also do breakfast. Not sure about dinner.
*John Young in this area is under construction. Ingress and egress to the area is more complicated than ever.
Lafayette's, I Drive
I had lunch at this two year old Cajun spot at Pointe Orlando on Monday. It is on the second level across from Adobe Gila's in the old Lulu Bait Shack spot. It was ok. Too chain-y/theme-y for me. It has the usual Cajun menu. I had the one dish that seemed a bit refined. It was Paneed (Breaded) Chicken in a lemon caper sauce with a side salad of arugula and cherry tomato for $15. Kind of like a Milanese. It was ok. A small piece of pounded breast (paillard) in a light batter. Fresh salad. A lot of capers. The fried coating did mush up in the sauce. Service was a bit inattentive. A soda was $3. They had an industrial strength fan blowing on your neck even though it was temperate inside. They start the tip recommendations at 18%. It looks nice. Lots of free space. Two sections and a patio. A bar in between. Not my scene.
*There is a southern restaurant across the way called Itta Bene. It seemed interesting (rabbit fricasse). Only open at night. The piano bar scares me though.
*There is a southern restaurant across the way called Itta Bene. It seemed interesting (rabbit fricasse). Only open at night. The piano bar scares me though.
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Grub Crawl - Longwood: Pho 4 U and Shiraz Market (Moved to 17-92 and 434)
I grabbed food to go from these places on Sunday. One of them gave me salmonella. I was betting that it was the first place (lots of possibly poorly washed raw vegetables), but, I'm feeling a recurrence of the shit storm after eating the rice from the second place today.
Pho 4 U - I ordered a pork skin bahn mi and a brisket, flank, tendon and tripe pho to go. Now, I have never had the pork skin before and either it is not very "skin-y" or they gave me the grilled pork. It was good whatever it was. The bun looked like they tried to extend its life by wetting it down and nuking it. It was crispy anyway. The pork was cut into noodle like slivers. Tasty. It cost $4.50. Makes you want to fire bomb fast food sandwich shops and their over priced slop. The pho didn't have the tendon or tripe. There was some kind of soft white thing that maybe is soft tendon. The meat was plentiful and of a good quality. It's so amazing how one cut (brisket) from the same animal can be brown and the other (flank) gray. They use a wide flat (linguine size) rice noodle. The broth was good. The vegetables were fresh. Especially the basil. I do think I am going to wash them from now on though. Just in case. It cost $9 for the medium (their smallest). They are in a building on 17-92 near 434 that probably was a fast food restaurant at one time. The place looked clean. Not very posh. There were a few normal people eating there. I think they have been open for five months. They offer the usual Vietnamese menu. It is hard to find a pho/bahn mi combo place. It's a good value.
Shiraz Market - They took over the corner building on Ronald Reagan Blvd (near the tracks on 434) that used to have a little Mexican market and kitchen. They serve up to ten dishes and have a market with interesting Middle Eastern goods. I will have to buy the honey comb, sour pistachio nuts and watermelon seeds at some point. I believe the name means they are Iranian. I tried a beef kebab with jasmine rice and a roasted tomato for $7 and a lamb gyro for $7. The beef was cooked to medium and had a mild flavor. The rice was cooked perfectly. The gyro was comprised of tzatziki, lettuce, tomato, sour pickle and thinly sliced lamb "loaf". It was also not seasoned to death. I'm not sure if they make it in house. It came in a fresh lavoush instead of a pita. The tzatziki wasn't overloaded. It was a nuanced gyro. Now, like I said, something I ate on Sunday (that had a lot of vegetables in it) desperately wanted to confabulate with my toilet (and maybe float to sea or that inter-coastal that we sent all the shit through after Irma). It certainly didn't want to spend one second more in my body than it had to. I'd hate to think it was either of these because I liked the food. I will try both again at some point. This place is more of a carry out place. They have one table with six chairs and it is cramped. They have been there for one year.
*I do have to make mention of the interminable time it seems to take for road construction in the city. we all know the ever worsening ridiculousness of the I-Sore, but, the 17-92 project (near The Senator tree) must be in year ten. Is it just graft? Sand Lake Rd near John Young is now under construction too. It took them forever to do what they did on OBT and 434. An investigation would seem proper.
Pho 4 U - I ordered a pork skin bahn mi and a brisket, flank, tendon and tripe pho to go. Now, I have never had the pork skin before and either it is not very "skin-y" or they gave me the grilled pork. It was good whatever it was. The bun looked like they tried to extend its life by wetting it down and nuking it. It was crispy anyway. The pork was cut into noodle like slivers. Tasty. It cost $4.50. Makes you want to fire bomb fast food sandwich shops and their over priced slop. The pho didn't have the tendon or tripe. There was some kind of soft white thing that maybe is soft tendon. The meat was plentiful and of a good quality. It's so amazing how one cut (brisket) from the same animal can be brown and the other (flank) gray. They use a wide flat (linguine size) rice noodle. The broth was good. The vegetables were fresh. Especially the basil. I do think I am going to wash them from now on though. Just in case. It cost $9 for the medium (their smallest). They are in a building on 17-92 near 434 that probably was a fast food restaurant at one time. The place looked clean. Not very posh. There were a few normal people eating there. I think they have been open for five months. They offer the usual Vietnamese menu. It is hard to find a pho/bahn mi combo place. It's a good value.
Shiraz Market - They took over the corner building on Ronald Reagan Blvd (near the tracks on 434) that used to have a little Mexican market and kitchen. They serve up to ten dishes and have a market with interesting Middle Eastern goods. I will have to buy the honey comb, sour pistachio nuts and watermelon seeds at some point. I believe the name means they are Iranian. I tried a beef kebab with jasmine rice and a roasted tomato for $7 and a lamb gyro for $7. The beef was cooked to medium and had a mild flavor. The rice was cooked perfectly. The gyro was comprised of tzatziki, lettuce, tomato, sour pickle and thinly sliced lamb "loaf". It was also not seasoned to death. I'm not sure if they make it in house. It came in a fresh lavoush instead of a pita. The tzatziki wasn't overloaded. It was a nuanced gyro. Now, like I said, something I ate on Sunday (that had a lot of vegetables in it) desperately wanted to confabulate with my toilet (and maybe float to sea or that inter-coastal that we sent all the shit through after Irma). It certainly didn't want to spend one second more in my body than it had to. I'd hate to think it was either of these because I liked the food. I will try both again at some point. This place is more of a carry out place. They have one table with six chairs and it is cramped. They have been there for one year.
*I do have to make mention of the interminable time it seems to take for road construction in the city. we all know the ever worsening ridiculousness of the I-Sore, but, the 17-92 project (near The Senator tree) must be in year ten. Is it just graft? Sand Lake Rd near John Young is now under construction too. It took them forever to do what they did on OBT and 434. An investigation would seem proper.
Monday, November 27, 2017
Pub Crawl - Downtown: Mather's Social Gathering, Lion's Pride (Closed) and Orange County Brewers (Closed)
I tried these bars Saturday night.
Mather's Social Gathering - This is one of those cocktail/speak easy type bars ala Hansen's Shoe Repair and the Herman's Insurance one. It is on the second floor of a building aside from the one that used to house Cairo (on S. Magnolia). There is a bar on the corner now called Shots. It was interesting. A little closer to cheesy interactive dinner theater with the hidden door handle, piano bar and the natttily attired type writing ad lib poet. However, they did seem to spend enough to make it an experience. There is a bar area (cramped) on the right as you enter and couches along the left wall. It's decorated in knack knacks and flea market bric a brac. I'm not Southern so I don't know what type of place it is meant to recreate. It reminded me of a set from a Tennessee Williams play. The crowd and the place were a little mismatched. I would envision Auburn or Clemson alumni (maybe even Rollins) and scions relaxing in this atmosphere. Instead there was a multiplicity of poorly dressed middle aged I-95ers. It's also a little weird to match up the (probably Venezuelan) elevator girl and the Hispanic door guy with this aestetic. They are the first thing you experience and if the roles were reversed people would be screaming about cultural appropriation. Nevertheless, it is something we have to get used to as we become Atlanta/Miami. The cocktails were all around $15. They were pretty stiff. There was a menu with a small selection. I can't imagine what liberties they take with the bill if you order off the menu. All in all it was pretty good (and I hate cocktail bars). It seems to be first come first served on the couches. If you have a big group and can milk the clock with conversation, it would probably make for a nice evening (like lounging in a lobby bar). Time goes more slowly if you are there by yourself. I think they have been open for around a year. No Cover. Had a line down the block (close to capacity inside) when I left.
Lion's Pride - They are across from Hamburger Mary's on the tracks on Church St. They opened in May. It is an excellent sports bar. It looks like a sports hall of fame, They spent too much on it. It sparkles. It's so white. They have tvs everywhere. The liquor selection is expansive. The prices (especially Scotch) were the most reasonable I have seen downtown. They serve food. It has two levels. They have special viewing parties for major league and college sporting events (and of course soccer). You can rent out private spaces. They even sell Lions trinkets. It's like they took a stadium vip bar and moved it off site. I like it better than Jay-Z's 50/50 club. If that still exists. It closed at eleven though.
Orange County Brewers - They have been open for two months. The owner has some kind of past affiliation with Shipyard and Seadog beer. It's in the old Mini Cooper (Fiat?) space on Orange. Cafe Annie was close by at one time. The beer is on the lower end of the local selections. I have never loved Shipyard or Seadog beer, so, I hope this isn't what it will always taste like. They had a blonde ales that was good. I often find that new breweries have trouble with complexity and balance when they open. This batch was over hopped in places and watery elsewhere. Not a lot of taste sensations. But, the place looks great. A flight (5) was $12. They have a brick pizza oven. They serve other things as well. The staff was willing to have an interchange. They had knowledge of the product. The place has tvs (sports). And it's closer than WOB. And far enough from the Orange Ave riff raff. I don't think people have discovered it yet. They were closing at midnight.
Mather's Social Gathering - This is one of those cocktail/speak easy type bars ala Hansen's Shoe Repair and the Herman's Insurance one. It is on the second floor of a building aside from the one that used to house Cairo (on S. Magnolia). There is a bar on the corner now called Shots. It was interesting. A little closer to cheesy interactive dinner theater with the hidden door handle, piano bar and the natttily attired type writing ad lib poet. However, they did seem to spend enough to make it an experience. There is a bar area (cramped) on the right as you enter and couches along the left wall. It's decorated in knack knacks and flea market bric a brac. I'm not Southern so I don't know what type of place it is meant to recreate. It reminded me of a set from a Tennessee Williams play. The crowd and the place were a little mismatched. I would envision Auburn or Clemson alumni (maybe even Rollins) and scions relaxing in this atmosphere. Instead there was a multiplicity of poorly dressed middle aged I-95ers. It's also a little weird to match up the (probably Venezuelan) elevator girl and the Hispanic door guy with this aestetic. They are the first thing you experience and if the roles were reversed people would be screaming about cultural appropriation. Nevertheless, it is something we have to get used to as we become Atlanta/Miami. The cocktails were all around $15. They were pretty stiff. There was a menu with a small selection. I can't imagine what liberties they take with the bill if you order off the menu. All in all it was pretty good (and I hate cocktail bars). It seems to be first come first served on the couches. If you have a big group and can milk the clock with conversation, it would probably make for a nice evening (like lounging in a lobby bar). Time goes more slowly if you are there by yourself. I think they have been open for around a year. No Cover. Had a line down the block (close to capacity inside) when I left.
Lion's Pride - They are across from Hamburger Mary's on the tracks on Church St. They opened in May. It is an excellent sports bar. It looks like a sports hall of fame, They spent too much on it. It sparkles. It's so white. They have tvs everywhere. The liquor selection is expansive. The prices (especially Scotch) were the most reasonable I have seen downtown. They serve food. It has two levels. They have special viewing parties for major league and college sporting events (and of course soccer). You can rent out private spaces. They even sell Lions trinkets. It's like they took a stadium vip bar and moved it off site. I like it better than Jay-Z's 50/50 club. If that still exists. It closed at eleven though.
Orange County Brewers - They have been open for two months. The owner has some kind of past affiliation with Shipyard and Seadog beer. It's in the old Mini Cooper (Fiat?) space on Orange. Cafe Annie was close by at one time. The beer is on the lower end of the local selections. I have never loved Shipyard or Seadog beer, so, I hope this isn't what it will always taste like. They had a blonde ales that was good. I often find that new breweries have trouble with complexity and balance when they open. This batch was over hopped in places and watery elsewhere. Not a lot of taste sensations. But, the place looks great. A flight (5) was $12. They have a brick pizza oven. They serve other things as well. The staff was willing to have an interchange. They had knowledge of the product. The place has tvs (sports). And it's closer than WOB. And far enough from the Orange Ave riff raff. I don't think people have discovered it yet. They were closing at midnight.
Muddy Waters, Thornton Park - Closed
I tried this Cajun spot where Mucho used to be (on S. Eola Dr) on Saturday for dinner. I had a disappointing meal at their first place (Two Chefs), so, I wasn't encouraged when the look of the menu was almost the same. I settled in on Shrimp and Grits because it was one of the more reasonably priced dishes ($18). It was the right call. The grits were cooked perfectly. They had a nice cheese essence. It was full of andouille. The shrimp (5) were pretty good. A little slippery, but, a nice size and not overcooked. It was hard to knife off the tails though. The bowl they come in isn't conducive to surgery. There were also some sauteed mushrooms and a hot sauce in the recipe. A big portion. They have been open for nine months. They kept the layout the same and changed out the decor. Like I said, the prices are a little high. Over $20 for many of the mains. The have an oyster bar and a bar bar. I think I read that the chef with the Louisiana roots runs this place and the Florida chef is at the old restaurant. Wine selection was low end.
Sunday, November 26, 2017
Orlando Meats, Mills Ave Area
I had a medium rare cheeseburger at this meat market on Virginia Dr yesterday at lunch. It was well done. It also came with an overly salty garlic aoli and a "XO flavored bacon" that looked and tasted like pate. They serve it on a "french" bread that looked liked ciabatta. Probably one known simply as Freanch rustic square bread. You could taste anything over the aoli. I scraped it off. That helped a little. The "bacon" was a distraction. The cheese was overwhelmed. I don't see why they would add all that jazz to a burger. Who wants it? You are at a meat shop. You are there for quality meat I would suspect. Let a lesser establishment hide the meat. You should use your meals to market your meat. Let your meat swing freely.
They seemed to be to busy to press the meat into a patty and it would separate along the "ridge" lines. I often do this myself when I don't want to get my hands dirty/greasy. I just cut out a square of ground meat out of the "lump" of ground meat with my burger flipper and toss it on the grill or in the pan. I shouldn't do that (it cleaves in layers when I try and flip it) and neither should they. They compliment the burger with home made chips. They are very light and fried in beef tallow or marrow, but, they are too salty and I think they were so sharp that they cut up my throat. They add a pickle spear. It cost $12 and a soda was only $1.
It is mostly a meat shop/butcher. They have around a dozen meal options. The restaurant part has been open for two months. It looks great. Hipster appeal. They offer challenging things like pigs feet fritters and pork torchon (dish towel). The torchon a a sister of a terrine. It was/is made by wrapping the meat in a towel or cloth. It started as a foie gras preparation. I'd like to see a little better execution, but, I liked it. It's in between Matador and Santiago's Bodega. They are open every day except Monday.
They seemed to be to busy to press the meat into a patty and it would separate along the "ridge" lines. I often do this myself when I don't want to get my hands dirty/greasy. I just cut out a square of ground meat out of the "lump" of ground meat with my burger flipper and toss it on the grill or in the pan. I shouldn't do that (it cleaves in layers when I try and flip it) and neither should they. They compliment the burger with home made chips. They are very light and fried in beef tallow or marrow, but, they are too salty and I think they were so sharp that they cut up my throat. They add a pickle spear. It cost $12 and a soda was only $1.
It is mostly a meat shop/butcher. They have around a dozen meal options. The restaurant part has been open for two months. It looks great. Hipster appeal. They offer challenging things like pigs feet fritters and pork torchon (dish towel). The torchon a a sister of a terrine. It was/is made by wrapping the meat in a towel or cloth. It started as a foie gras preparation. I'd like to see a little better execution, but, I liked it. It's in between Matador and Santiago's Bodega. They are open every day except Monday.
Grub Crawl - Tavares: O'Keefe's Irish Pub, Ruby Street Grille and Lake Dora Sushi and Sake
I ate at these three places on the lake at lunch on Friday. They all are on or near Main St. You take St Clair St off 441 to get there. They were on that Sentinel list that I have referenced before.
O'Keefe's Irish Pub - I had a potato baxty with smoked salmon for $15. It was a mound of mashed potatoes (like a knish) with a baked coating. It also came with shredded onion and sour cream. It was very tasty. It made laugh to think that the Nova Supreme (bagel and salmon with veg) may be a rip off of an Irish recipe. Especially when I think back on how often my Irish classmates would call me a Yid for ordering one. Then again, maybe O'Keefe's is the one who was inspired by the Supreme. The rest of the menu is normal pub food (sandwiches and burgers). They had three or four more Irish specialties. They have been there for 33 years. They have a patio that faces the lake. The main room is split by a wine storage "wall". The bar is in the rear. The place is lined with mugs with patrons names on them. Beer mirrors and posters make up the majority of the remaining decoration. It was clean. Not smoky.
Ruby Street Grille - I was going to rip them apart and then I wasn't and now I might. It's not as cute as it might sound. The place stunk of Febreeze covering something worse. I went in and then left for O'Keefe's. I came back only to get something to go that would knock this off the list. I settled on the daily special (pulled pork and beans and potato salad and bread) because everything else was overpriced and mundane and might have forced me to smell the air longer. It cost $9. The portion was huge. Three servings. Probably trying to ditch it before it spoiled. It was edible. Probably that shredded pork that comes in a plastic bag. WAY too much sauce. Hidden calories. I am ashamed of the caloric intake. The potato salad was also from a bag. I saw them scooping in from the mother ship. I didn't eat the beans. So, big portion, average food. It was a wash. But...I got a really sore throat the next day and feel a little flu-zy today. It could be the place I had lunch the next day or their razor edged chips plus my hangover or it was something here. I hate to cast aspersions, but, the throat thing happened to quick after lunch the next day for me to point my finger that way. Now, maybe I'll feel better tomorrow and decide this wasn't the flu. If I do, I'll amend the post. The place isn't very nice looking. The art inside is particularly bad. The deck may be what you come for. It seemed like one of the "bad house band" joints. It has been there for nine years.
Lake Dora Sushi and Sake - I grabbed a three roll special to go and was very pleased. If the quality of their "real" sushi is as good as these "entry" rolls. then they really have something. Especially since the pieces were priced at around $2-$3. My combo (with miso soup) cost $9. The rolls were medium size cut into eight pieces. Now I could get nit picky and say that the cuts were not uniform, but, I will concentrate on the good. The rice was properly prepared. It had very little to no vinegar. The tuna in the spicy tuna roll was discards, but, they weren't cat food and weren't pureed into a paste. You could taste and feel the tuna. The salmon in the Alaska roll was good enough. They (thankfully) added just a smear of cream cheese (not a caloric cube). The avocado in the avocado roll was fresh. The wasabi was fresh. I ate it all as soon as I got home. Now, I had been jones-ing for sushi for about a week, but, that has to count for something. And compared to what you get at the supermarket for $9, this is a steal. The owners are Japanese. There were two framed articles outlining their thoughts on the place (positive). I can't say you have to come this far for it, but, if you live here then you could have drawn worse lots. I also liked that they are wise enough to sense a marketing opportunity. They add a wrapper to their chopsticks sleeve that has there contact info. The also serve up hot items including soba. The place has a sushi abr and a main room. It is decorated in a funky way.
*There was also an ok looking bar (Bru) and a coffee place (something Bear) and an ice cream shop near these spots. And the sea planes.
O'Keefe's Irish Pub - I had a potato baxty with smoked salmon for $15. It was a mound of mashed potatoes (like a knish) with a baked coating. It also came with shredded onion and sour cream. It was very tasty. It made laugh to think that the Nova Supreme (bagel and salmon with veg) may be a rip off of an Irish recipe. Especially when I think back on how often my Irish classmates would call me a Yid for ordering one. Then again, maybe O'Keefe's is the one who was inspired by the Supreme. The rest of the menu is normal pub food (sandwiches and burgers). They had three or four more Irish specialties. They have been there for 33 years. They have a patio that faces the lake. The main room is split by a wine storage "wall". The bar is in the rear. The place is lined with mugs with patrons names on them. Beer mirrors and posters make up the majority of the remaining decoration. It was clean. Not smoky.
Ruby Street Grille - I was going to rip them apart and then I wasn't and now I might. It's not as cute as it might sound. The place stunk of Febreeze covering something worse. I went in and then left for O'Keefe's. I came back only to get something to go that would knock this off the list. I settled on the daily special (pulled pork and beans and potato salad and bread) because everything else was overpriced and mundane and might have forced me to smell the air longer. It cost $9. The portion was huge. Three servings. Probably trying to ditch it before it spoiled. It was edible. Probably that shredded pork that comes in a plastic bag. WAY too much sauce. Hidden calories. I am ashamed of the caloric intake. The potato salad was also from a bag. I saw them scooping in from the mother ship. I didn't eat the beans. So, big portion, average food. It was a wash. But...I got a really sore throat the next day and feel a little flu-zy today. It could be the place I had lunch the next day or their razor edged chips plus my hangover or it was something here. I hate to cast aspersions, but, the throat thing happened to quick after lunch the next day for me to point my finger that way. Now, maybe I'll feel better tomorrow and decide this wasn't the flu. If I do, I'll amend the post. The place isn't very nice looking. The art inside is particularly bad. The deck may be what you come for. It seemed like one of the "bad house band" joints. It has been there for nine years.
Lake Dora Sushi and Sake - I grabbed a three roll special to go and was very pleased. If the quality of their "real" sushi is as good as these "entry" rolls. then they really have something. Especially since the pieces were priced at around $2-$3. My combo (with miso soup) cost $9. The rolls were medium size cut into eight pieces. Now I could get nit picky and say that the cuts were not uniform, but, I will concentrate on the good. The rice was properly prepared. It had very little to no vinegar. The tuna in the spicy tuna roll was discards, but, they weren't cat food and weren't pureed into a paste. You could taste and feel the tuna. The salmon in the Alaska roll was good enough. They (thankfully) added just a smear of cream cheese (not a caloric cube). The avocado in the avocado roll was fresh. The wasabi was fresh. I ate it all as soon as I got home. Now, I had been jones-ing for sushi for about a week, but, that has to count for something. And compared to what you get at the supermarket for $9, this is a steal. The owners are Japanese. There were two framed articles outlining their thoughts on the place (positive). I can't say you have to come this far for it, but, if you live here then you could have drawn worse lots. I also liked that they are wise enough to sense a marketing opportunity. They add a wrapper to their chopsticks sleeve that has there contact info. The also serve up hot items including soba. The place has a sushi abr and a main room. It is decorated in a funky way.
*There was also an ok looking bar (Bru) and a coffee place (something Bear) and an ice cream shop near these spots. And the sea planes.
Friday, November 24, 2017
Grub Crawl - Disney Springs: The Polite Pig and Paddlefish
I grabbed a sandwich to go at the first one during lunch and grabbed a quick dinner later on at the second on Thursday.
The Polite Pig - I had a smoked chicken salad sandwich for free because their register broke down. They demanded I take it on the the house. How can you refuse (or ignore) such hospitality. I think it would have cost me $12. It was pretty good. The chicken was in slices (not cubes). It was mixed with grapes. The problem with it was mostly bun related. I don't like the way many brioche buns fall apart.They also throw in a pickle quarter. The place is modern. They have a patio. I thought it would be a bit bigger and not a serve yourself endeavour. I'm happier that it is the way it is (less fuss). It is located right to the right of the escalator at the lime parking structure. They open at 11am. They also have pork and brisket and a fried and smoked chicken sandwich. They also do platters and sides. It's from the Ravenous Pig people (Petrakis). It;s their version of 4 Rivers.
Paddlefish - I don't see why they felt the need. It's almost exactly like The Boathouse. The redo seemed half ass. Some areas (especially the top deck) seemed badly renovated. Maybe it is already worn after one summer. And the layout is weird. They wanted to exploit the "views", but, their architectural design makes the whole middle off limits. This separates all the other areas into separate rooms. No flow. I'm sure they'll say they meant to, but, I think it is a mistake. It feels claustrophobic/cramped. And all the money they spent (where they spent it) still only succeeds in making you think you are on a cruise ship. I would it have left it as it was. If it had rot or termites then repair and replace and leave it looking like a working Mississippi river boat. Don't try and recreate it as a pre-war luxury liner. The place has three levels. The top is a bar/open area. I sat at the front bar on the first level because that is what you see when you enter. There is no indication that there are other bars or other levels. I had two appetizers because I wasn't hungry and everything else is about twice as expensive as it should be. $40 to $60 is what they want you to spend per person per entree. I had the charred octopus for $15 and the ahi poke for $16. The octopus was pretty good (two arms) atop cannelloni beans and a few slices of chorizo. It would have been better if it came out of the kitchen less meteorically. That means that they pre-cooked everything and just plated it. I prefer my food made to order at this price point. The poke was terrible. I imagine some manic idiot with two squeeze bottles (one with soy sauce and one with yuzu) prematurely ejaculated a a mouthful of their contents into my tuna's tits. And then he topped this pearl necklace with some sea salt. Weak. To recap - I love the thought of dining on a river boat. I liked the old Fulton's Landing (or whatever it was called). I would have preferred they had left it as it was if this was their plan. It duplicated a niche. It's not a value. It's comically filled with riff raff (in an quasi-elegant environment). There doesn't appear to be any concern over the quality of the food. And (unsurprisingly) the food (at least some) is not cooked to order. Almost any of the other restaurants in Disney Springs is a better option. Maybe go for a drink on the upper deck if they don't try and rip you off there as well. Unlikely.
The Polite Pig - I had a smoked chicken salad sandwich for free because their register broke down. They demanded I take it on the the house. How can you refuse (or ignore) such hospitality. I think it would have cost me $12. It was pretty good. The chicken was in slices (not cubes). It was mixed with grapes. The problem with it was mostly bun related. I don't like the way many brioche buns fall apart.They also throw in a pickle quarter. The place is modern. They have a patio. I thought it would be a bit bigger and not a serve yourself endeavour. I'm happier that it is the way it is (less fuss). It is located right to the right of the escalator at the lime parking structure. They open at 11am. They also have pork and brisket and a fried and smoked chicken sandwich. They also do platters and sides. It's from the Ravenous Pig people (Petrakis). It;s their version of 4 Rivers.
Paddlefish - I don't see why they felt the need. It's almost exactly like The Boathouse. The redo seemed half ass. Some areas (especially the top deck) seemed badly renovated. Maybe it is already worn after one summer. And the layout is weird. They wanted to exploit the "views", but, their architectural design makes the whole middle off limits. This separates all the other areas into separate rooms. No flow. I'm sure they'll say they meant to, but, I think it is a mistake. It feels claustrophobic/cramped. And all the money they spent (where they spent it) still only succeeds in making you think you are on a cruise ship. I would it have left it as it was. If it had rot or termites then repair and replace and leave it looking like a working Mississippi river boat. Don't try and recreate it as a pre-war luxury liner. The place has three levels. The top is a bar/open area. I sat at the front bar on the first level because that is what you see when you enter. There is no indication that there are other bars or other levels. I had two appetizers because I wasn't hungry and everything else is about twice as expensive as it should be. $40 to $60 is what they want you to spend per person per entree. I had the charred octopus for $15 and the ahi poke for $16. The octopus was pretty good (two arms) atop cannelloni beans and a few slices of chorizo. It would have been better if it came out of the kitchen less meteorically. That means that they pre-cooked everything and just plated it. I prefer my food made to order at this price point. The poke was terrible. I imagine some manic idiot with two squeeze bottles (one with soy sauce and one with yuzu) prematurely ejaculated a a mouthful of their contents into my tuna's tits. And then he topped this pearl necklace with some sea salt. Weak. To recap - I love the thought of dining on a river boat. I liked the old Fulton's Landing (or whatever it was called). I would have preferred they had left it as it was if this was their plan. It duplicated a niche. It's not a value. It's comically filled with riff raff (in an quasi-elegant environment). There doesn't appear to be any concern over the quality of the food. And (unsurprisingly) the food (at least some) is not cooked to order. Almost any of the other restaurants in Disney Springs is a better option. Maybe go for a drink on the upper deck if they don't try and rip you off there as well. Unlikely.
Advocare Invitational, Disney
It's here again. 8 teams. $30 per session. Free Parking. At HP Fieldhouse at ESPN location. I went on Thursday. Only Sunday games are left to go to.
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Too Much Sauce, Mills Ave
I grabbed a Luau Pork Bowl to go at this new (one month) fast casual place today. It replaces Giraffa Burgers in the strip mall on Mills Ave (and Virginia) that has the Whole Foods (I think that's the market). It is like a Noddles & Co (I think I have that name right). They use rice and/or quinoa instead of pasta. They try and space out the flavors so a multitude of cuisines are represented. Or you can mix and match. The ingredients aren't mundane. They offer some unique items like cauliflower rice and baby bella mush. My bowl wasn't bad. The rice was good. The pineapple pulled pork was over sauced, but, otherwise acceptable. It also came with sweet potato fries, a green salad and steamed green beans. They were fresh. The serving size was large. It cost $8. Not bad for an assembly line. They also have ice cream bowls for around $4. They aren't a chain. I liked it more than I thought I would. And I thought it would be an Italian place based on the name.
*I need the address (for you) some possibly bad or changed info I copied from the Orlando Weekly over the year. Maybe you are confused as well. I wrote down that a pizza place called Chalaten was to open around Lake Ivanhoe. I've driven around for months (and Googled) and there is no evidence of it. Similarly with a Pho place (Pho #7) on 50 near Mills. It is there, but, it has been closed the two times I've tried it. The phone number says it has been disconnected and a store owner nearby says they are closed. I've given up on them. I also think that place at the intersection of Virginia and Orange at Lake Ivanhoe (Nova?) has closed. It looked deserted while I drove by.
**I also meant to add that I'm thinking of opening my own (similarly sounding) place. It would be called Too Much Saus-ich.
*I need the address (for you) some possibly bad or changed info I copied from the Orlando Weekly over the year. Maybe you are confused as well. I wrote down that a pizza place called Chalaten was to open around Lake Ivanhoe. I've driven around for months (and Googled) and there is no evidence of it. Similarly with a Pho place (Pho #7) on 50 near Mills. It is there, but, it has been closed the two times I've tried it. The phone number says it has been disconnected and a store owner nearby says they are closed. I've given up on them. I also think that place at the intersection of Virginia and Orange at Lake Ivanhoe (Nova?) has closed. It looked deserted while I drove by.
**I also meant to add that I'm thinking of opening my own (similarly sounding) place. It would be called Too Much Saus-ich.
Reyes Mezcaleria, Downtown
I went to this Mexican restaurant on N Orange Ave (the old Citrus locale - north of 50) today at lunch. I had three starters. Raw Chesapeake Oysters at $12. Red Snapper Ceviche at $12. Tuna Tostada at $9. The oysters were the worst. I think they pre-shuck them. There were only five and they lost all their liquor on the way to the table. I just saw a thing on oysters and they said that the wholesale price is 60 to 90 cents. They sell them for $2.40. The ceviche was very good. Maybe the best I've ever had. Lots of fish. A mild leche. Some little quirks like thinly shaved green olive, cubes of jicama and thick golden tortilla chips sprinkled with sugar. The ceviche also had some jalapeno and red onion and very fresh avocado. A real winner. It could be an entree. The tuna was very fresh and plentiful. Cut in thin squares. They topped it with a spicy dust that was a distraction. This quality of fish doesn't need masking. The tostada was crisp and supported avocado, crema and cilantro. The place has the same foot print as Citrus. They tinkered around the edges (decor). It looks crisp and modern. The guy from Saito Sushi and Osprey Tavern runs it. It has been open for five months. The clientele was hip, young and well heeled. It seats over one hundred. They have a large private room and patio. The one criticism (other than underperforming oysters and unnecessary spicing) centers on the service. My waiter forgot my soda order and then disappeared until the tostada was presented. Other wait staff had to bring out the oysters and ceviche for him. He then disappeared again until the end of the meal. He only offered a refill (made necessary by the spicy tuna) after everything was consumed. I needed it half way through the meal. I have a new passive aggressive response to the "late refill". Say that you want it and then just leave it there untouched. And adjust tip accordingly of course. Parking is a bitch around there, but, I recommend it. The rest of the lunch menu was pretty standard high end Mexican. The dinner is probably more ambitious. They also do the tequila/mezcal thing. I found them much better than F&D Cantina for instance (who may not be updating the prices on their menu).
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Grub Crawl - Mount Dora: Let's Do, Fiesta Grande and Magical Meat Boutique
I tried these three restaurants at lunch in downtown today. None of which were on the original agenda.
Let's Do - They refer to themselves as a Maine Lobster Roll restaurant. I tried one. I am always apprehensive about ordering these because they are so expensive and usually not fresh nor overflowing with lobster. I was especially so after another unsatisfactory experience yesterday in Minneapolis (never trust Triple D). However, I was yearning for some seafood/sushi and they price reasonably. I had the roll/soup/side special for $16 ($13 alone). The soup was NE clam chowder. It was probably Chunky in the can. I had a celery and skin on potato salad as the side. It could have been made in house. It was fine. The lobster roll was acceptable (a feat). The butter they used on the roll wasn't rancid. Probably butter. I would guess the meat came from an under one pound lobster. I had a piece of claw and it was tiny (but sweet). The majority of the remainder was leg meat. Now, I go to town on a lobster and pull/squeeze all the meat out of those tiny legs with my teeth. I'm not sure how many people make that effort (and know the taste of the meat). I like the meat. Some may feel cheated if their roll is comprised of them. I felt there was enough meat (and it was fresh enough) and the price point is where it should be. I think $15-16 should be the limit. And that should come with a sea/bay side view. I'd rather wait until I'm at a place that can give me that than pay through the nose for a bad imitation. This place comes as close as I have seen (not just in Florida) of offering a fresh product at a price you would see at the source. The place is not much to look at. Ten or eleven tables and a Chinese paper wall separating the grill and the dining room. They said they have been open for two years (name on window for just one month). They also serve hot dogs, eight sandwiches, milkshakes and soup. They are right on the main street (426 N Donnelly St).
Fiesta Grande - This is a Mexican (more Tex-Mex) restaurant up the hill one street on North Baker St. I had the lunch special three (taco, enchilida, burrito) for $8 (or more because the total was $8,83 and that seem like they add 10% tax if not). I had the trio to go. They were all pretty mediocre to bad. The enchilada was empty and smothered in a pasty, bland "cheese". The tacos (they gave me a second possibly because they knew the screwed up the enchilada) were comprised of a tasteless, milled ground beef with lettuce and tomatoes. The chicken burrito was all shredded chicken covered with that foul cheese. The place looks like any other mid-range Mexican chain. They had a patio. It seemed to be a hit with the locals. They had a pretty extensive and predictable plastic menu.
Magical Meat Boutique - I tried a Lady Haddock meal to go for $9. It was a filet of fried fish with chips (fries). Both were ok. This is another meal I rarely have success with. The fish was still moist (a little fishy). The batter mostly stuck to the fish. It wasn't too oily. The chips were crispish (hard at that thickness). They have a lovely story about originally being in London/Camden Town (since 1500's as a butcher shop and 1960's as a hippie enclave) and emigrating here with the lore and latest generation. They dress the place up with English props (phone booth, Beatles stuff, etc). It has a patio/deck that abuts the historic train and tracks. The menu has some interesting traditional English fare (like battered sausages) and a group of semi-expensive ($13 and up) burgers. They serve breakfast until 11am. They close at midnight on week days and 2am on weekends. The mostly English beer selection is pretty cheap ($6) compared to many places (up to $9). It's a fun place and I would suggest it. They seem to take the culinary aspect seriously. It has been on W 3rd Ave for three years.
Let's Do - They refer to themselves as a Maine Lobster Roll restaurant. I tried one. I am always apprehensive about ordering these because they are so expensive and usually not fresh nor overflowing with lobster. I was especially so after another unsatisfactory experience yesterday in Minneapolis (never trust Triple D). However, I was yearning for some seafood/sushi and they price reasonably. I had the roll/soup/side special for $16 ($13 alone). The soup was NE clam chowder. It was probably Chunky in the can. I had a celery and skin on potato salad as the side. It could have been made in house. It was fine. The lobster roll was acceptable (a feat). The butter they used on the roll wasn't rancid. Probably butter. I would guess the meat came from an under one pound lobster. I had a piece of claw and it was tiny (but sweet). The majority of the remainder was leg meat. Now, I go to town on a lobster and pull/squeeze all the meat out of those tiny legs with my teeth. I'm not sure how many people make that effort (and know the taste of the meat). I like the meat. Some may feel cheated if their roll is comprised of them. I felt there was enough meat (and it was fresh enough) and the price point is where it should be. I think $15-16 should be the limit. And that should come with a sea/bay side view. I'd rather wait until I'm at a place that can give me that than pay through the nose for a bad imitation. This place comes as close as I have seen (not just in Florida) of offering a fresh product at a price you would see at the source. The place is not much to look at. Ten or eleven tables and a Chinese paper wall separating the grill and the dining room. They said they have been open for two years (name on window for just one month). They also serve hot dogs, eight sandwiches, milkshakes and soup. They are right on the main street (426 N Donnelly St).
Fiesta Grande - This is a Mexican (more Tex-Mex) restaurant up the hill one street on North Baker St. I had the lunch special three (taco, enchilida, burrito) for $8 (or more because the total was $8,83 and that seem like they add 10% tax if not). I had the trio to go. They were all pretty mediocre to bad. The enchilada was empty and smothered in a pasty, bland "cheese". The tacos (they gave me a second possibly because they knew the screwed up the enchilada) were comprised of a tasteless, milled ground beef with lettuce and tomatoes. The chicken burrito was all shredded chicken covered with that foul cheese. The place looks like any other mid-range Mexican chain. They had a patio. It seemed to be a hit with the locals. They had a pretty extensive and predictable plastic menu.
Magical Meat Boutique - I tried a Lady Haddock meal to go for $9. It was a filet of fried fish with chips (fries). Both were ok. This is another meal I rarely have success with. The fish was still moist (a little fishy). The batter mostly stuck to the fish. It wasn't too oily. The chips were crispish (hard at that thickness). They have a lovely story about originally being in London/Camden Town (since 1500's as a butcher shop and 1960's as a hippie enclave) and emigrating here with the lore and latest generation. They dress the place up with English props (phone booth, Beatles stuff, etc). It has a patio/deck that abuts the historic train and tracks. The menu has some interesting traditional English fare (like battered sausages) and a group of semi-expensive ($13 and up) burgers. They serve breakfast until 11am. They close at midnight on week days and 2am on weekends. The mostly English beer selection is pretty cheap ($6) compared to many places (up to $9). It's a fun place and I would suggest it. They seem to take the culinary aspect seriously. It has been on W 3rd Ave for three years.
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Out Of The Woods BBQ, Umatilla
I went here around a week ago to try a place listed in an old Sentinel article (Gator Den) that is no longer here. This food truck was there and since they had a pulled pork sandwich for $4, I decided to give them a try. It was meh. Sloppy. Over sauced. Stale hamburger bun. I can't describe the quality of the pork. It was overwhelmed. The portion was generous and the guy seemed to care. Perhaps you will have better luck. It's in a trailer park called Nelson's Outdoor Resort. It is on some kind of water way that I don't think is the St Johns. The address is 19400 SE 42. You take the directions I gave you to Eustis and then turn left onto SR 42. It's a nice drive. He also serves ribs, chicken, hot dogs and sides.
Grub Crawl - Eustis: The Crazy Gator and Barnwood BBQ
I had lunch at these places near the lake around a week ago. The first is on the street that runs north and south on the east side of the lake. The second is at a train crossing on that street (N Bay St) called West Orange Ave. It is a few blocks south. As I have said in the past, a way to get here from Orlando is to take I-4 to 46W to 441W/N to 19N. The first restaurant was in that Sentinel article. The other was one I found (but was never open) a few excursions ago.
The Crazy Gator - It's not much food wise. Your basic bar fare. I settled on chicken fingers and fries for $9 because I needed to eat while driving and the rest of the menu was yawn inducing. The fingers took a while to prepare. I think they forgot. There were three of them. They were plump tenderloins. They packed the wrong dipping sauce. The fries were half cooked and dripping with oil (one reason why I think they forgot about my order). They had that horrible starch coating. Don't go for the food. The only reason (unless the bar gets rollicking) to go is to see what they haven't ruined of the old provisions building they are located in. And the nice view of the lake. Open since 2000.
Barnwood BBQ - This as a combo bbq and cafe. I had a brisket sandwich for $7. It was very good. The best in the area. It had a smoky (almost chipotle like) bark that had hints of Hungarian paprika. It was a thick bark. Dark and silky. I believe they served me the burnt ends. If not, it was a cut close to the surface. The bun was sweet. I really enjoyed it. Some might have found it a bit dry, but, I think it was just the cut I received. It came with a sauce that I didn't try. They also bbq other meats. Ribs, chicken and pork. The "cafe" menu had burgers, sandwiches, etc. They do breakfast. They are closed on the weekends. I forget when they open and close during the days they are open. It looks like a little "granny cafe". It seats about 40. They also sell a variety of swag (including t-shirts, honey, rubs, etc). It has been open for three years. They will be on the Favorites list.
The Crazy Gator - It's not much food wise. Your basic bar fare. I settled on chicken fingers and fries for $9 because I needed to eat while driving and the rest of the menu was yawn inducing. The fingers took a while to prepare. I think they forgot. There were three of them. They were plump tenderloins. They packed the wrong dipping sauce. The fries were half cooked and dripping with oil (one reason why I think they forgot about my order). They had that horrible starch coating. Don't go for the food. The only reason (unless the bar gets rollicking) to go is to see what they haven't ruined of the old provisions building they are located in. And the nice view of the lake. Open since 2000.
Barnwood BBQ - This as a combo bbq and cafe. I had a brisket sandwich for $7. It was very good. The best in the area. It had a smoky (almost chipotle like) bark that had hints of Hungarian paprika. It was a thick bark. Dark and silky. I believe they served me the burnt ends. If not, it was a cut close to the surface. The bun was sweet. I really enjoyed it. Some might have found it a bit dry, but, I think it was just the cut I received. It came with a sauce that I didn't try. They also bbq other meats. Ribs, chicken and pork. The "cafe" menu had burgers, sandwiches, etc. They do breakfast. They are closed on the weekends. I forget when they open and close during the days they are open. It looks like a little "granny cafe". It seats about 40. They also sell a variety of swag (including t-shirts, honey, rubs, etc). It has been open for three years. They will be on the Favorites list.
Thursday, October 26, 2017
AJ's Press, Longwood - Closed
I was originally in this area yesterday for this newcomer. It is the brother location of a one off Tampa based sandwich shop that somehow is/was the number 4 "top 100 places to eat" nationally in 2017. Now the sandwich I had was good, but, I'm not even sure they are the fourth best sandwich shop in Orlando. I had AJ's Cuban because it seemed like one of the more complex sandwiches (another reason why the ranking is questionable and hopefully not purchased). It cost $9.49 (for the larger one) and consists of two slices of pit style ham, four slices of Cantimpalo chorizo, slow roasted pork, jack cheese, pickles, mustard and mayo. It comes on a pressed 'locally baked" Telera roll (smaller size comes on a Bolillo roll at $7.49). It was good. I liked that the chorizo wasn't thickly sliced or worse - loose. The ham was good. The pork can be described as Carolina style (vinegar). I'm not sure if they roast it with vinegar or add that later to moisten it. The serving size could have been more generous. Maybe a hardball's worth. It comes with good home fried "lattice" potato chips. Think waffle cut fries. The other sandwiches that are a bit interesting (I'm reaching) are a brisket at $11 and a crunchy chicken at $9.49 (for the larges). The Grilled Chicken BLT, Chipotle Grilled Chicken, Sonora Bacon Dog, Roasted Mushroom, Burger, Mojo Pork, BLT, Grilled Cheese, Ham and Cheddar and Fish sandwiches didn't really wow me. And that is the main issue I have with the place. It's pretty vanilla. They could use a bit more funk. They also serve all these items (and breakfast sandwiches) as bowls. The breakfast items come on potatoes. The lunch items on black beans. They have a few sides, soups and desserts. It's on 434 near the RR tracks (near Ronald Reagan Blvd). It took over the spot that was Zorba's and some other spot most recently. They give you a very good jalapeno hush puppy while you wait. They are amiable. I didn't have to wait long. A family run business. I'd go back alot if it wasn't in such a traffic nightmare. They are closed on Sunday (the one light traffic day) and 8-4pm on M-F and 9-3pm on Sa.
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