Sauced at Sidebar, Pom Frites & Waffles at Saus

http://www.eatfrites.com/   http://www.sidebarboston.com/

Are you going to be in the Fanuiel Hall area anytime soon? If you are, go to Saus and see the fun for yourself. I had been planning my trip there for a few days and wasn't going to let anyone or anything stop me from getting my frites and waffles on. I wasn't even going to let 3 pitchers and 2 tequila shots at Sidebar stop me!


Let's back up. The night started at an annual St. Patty's day shindig thrown by my friends. It was my 3rd year in a row heading to SideBar with a charitable donation in hand and a thirst for lots of beers.  Sidebar is a nice little, unassuming baaaah with 2 bars in 2 long seperate rooms, potty in the basement.  Lots of video game machines in the first room with bench style seating along the walls.  Nice place for after work drinks.  And a nice place to offer up their space to a couple of guys looking to host a St. Patty's day celebration with a $10 cover going to the charity of their choice.  Happy to be there and happy to donate. 

What I like most about Sidebar is the pitcher.  Love the pitcher of beer.  Can more places bring back the pitchers, please???  To be honest, the best thing about being at Sidebar is the friends and the camaraderie.  And they don't kick you out for singing off key karaoke...so score!

So that pretty much sums up Sidebar!  Yup!  It's an ok spot but with the right amount of friends, you can have a blast anywhere!

Let's move back to the beginning then and talk about this hip little place Saus, which thankfully is open until 2am on Saturday nights.  Of course my pals and I were there for the late night, soak up the booze type of snacking.  But you should be going here for breakfast, for lunch, for mid day snacking during a shopping trip. 

I'm often told that I set my expectations way too high and get overly excited about mundane things.  Well screw they nay-sayers because this time I was dead on.  The frites and waffles came through and then some. 

Saus

Boston's 1st Belgian Street Food!!!

33 Union St  Boston MA

Mon-Thurs 11am-midnight  Fri & Sat 11am-2am  Sun 12pm-9pm

To see what Saus has to offer aside from frites and waffles, check out the link that I listed up top.  But to see what me and my cohorts chomped on, keep on reading, 'buds!  (Pay close attention to the dipping sauce names on the website, btw.  I love the detail of this!  You'll see.)

I had it in my head that we shouldn't all order tons of waffles, but that we should pick our favorites and share - no duplicating.  The frites?  I said every man for themselves on that one.  I can frite like no other.  So we ended up with:

The Salted Carmel waffle, the Nutella waffle and the Lemon waffle.  And of course we had the frites with the Vampire Slayer dipping sauce (garlic of course).

Each base waffle was made from the same dough, not batter.  They were extremely crunchy on the outside and super soft on the inside.  Perfect.  Each one had just enough sauce so it wasn't drowning.

My favorite waffle was the Nutella covered waffle.  It tasted like a fried dough sundae, minus the ice cream.  The Salty Carmel was 2nd in line in placing.  I loved the sweet and salty combo-so good.  And the caramel was nice and soft - no broken teeth.  The only one I wasn't over the moon for was the Lemon sauce.  It was a bit too sour for me and my 'buds. 

The frites were insanely good and I looked like a crazy person stuffing them in my face.  The Vampire Slayer dipping sauce was perfect and I can't be any clearer on how I feel.  GOOD stuff.

I am dying to go back and try the Poutine, so another trip is order.  I also plan to try the Mixed Berry waffles and other dipping sauces for my frites. 

Hoping people like this place and go back often because I do not want it go anywhere. 

Great chow @ Great Chow

http://www.great-chow.com/

I could just keep this blog simple and drive my point home with one word: Great!  But simple is too easy.  I'd actually like to get into why I really like Great Chow and what makes it so.

A long, long time ago (no, Don Maclean was not there) a couple friends made Roomie and I aware of the awesomeness that is GC.  We were introduced to the location in Abington on Rt 16.  I had heard nothing but raves from these friends and from family.  To be honest, I was slightly jealous that I hadn't heard about it sooner in life. 

After one visit, I was hooked.  I constantly try to get back but heading to Abington take some planning and forethought.  We all know how much this blogger digs her spontenaity.  So imagine my excitement when I learned that there was a Quincy location that offered take-out!  Hallelujah buddah!

When it comes to location vs. location, I am more partial to the Abington venue.  It's bigger and feels really exciting inside.  It is hopin'!  The Quincy haunt is more relaxed, casual, quiet.  Almost somber.  I remember in being in Abington and sitting right near a very large bar with a dane floor, live karaoke and a nice view of the hibatchi grill.  Lots of action.  The food, however, is great at either location.

This weekend we got take out.  We got a couple standards and a couple 1st time choices.  Let's do our list:

Scallion Pankcakes
A very generous serving accompanied by an amazing dipping sauce.  The cakes are so large that I struggle to get through 2, for fear of not getting to my meal. Now we order a small to keep everything at an even keel.  (The dipping sauce can be used for other things, too.  We dumped it all over our fried rice...what fried, you ask?)

Great Chow Fried Rice
One of 1st time orders, the house fried rice has shrimp, pork, beef, chicken, veggies, the kitchen sink...It's got it all.  The color of the rice is a little confusing.  You except to see the rice in a shade of brown, from all the soy sauce.  For this dish, the rice is really still very white and it is excellent.  I love fried rice a lot and there was nothing to dissapoint here.  It did not need the dipping sauce that we added to it.  That's just a personal preference.  And it reheats very nicely.  There is nothing like fried rice leftovers.

Pad Thai - Veggies
Our other 1st time order.  And another dish that made us do a double take at first sight.  The noodles were wider than we'd seen other places and they were also very yellow.  For some reason it made me think of chicken noodle soup, without the broth.  It did not look bad, just surprising.  The taste?  Great!  It is extremely spicey.  I think they should mark the menu with 2 of their little peppers rather than just 1.  But we like spice and consumed many spoonfuls.

Orange Flavored Beef
I don't know if I am going to make it through this part without having to stop and run home to get my leftovers.  This dish is so unbelievably, crazy good I don't even understand it.  I cannot believe there is not a line out the door every single night of crazed foodies trying to get their 'buds on this meal.  The orange flavored beef is not your standard beef and brocolli special.  It is thin beef which has been lightly floured and fried in a delicious soy, teriakyi orange sauce.  It tastes like...like...candy.  Like beef candy.  I kid you not.  It is so sweet with just the littlest tang and saltiness.  I can't even handle this.  Just go get it. 

Just so I don't sound like my head is completely in the clouds and oblivious in life, I want to give you a heads-up on something not to order.  Let's call this the "Because I care" segement of the blog.

Because I care: Do not order the lemon chicken.  The portion is one-size-fits-all and I have to tell you, it's so wasteful because it is NOT good.  The chicken is breaded and fried very sadly and the lemon flavoring tastes like sour jelly.  And visually, it looks like they erratically squeezed lemon jelly all over fried chicken.  It was so depressing.

A hopin' night, a casual dinner or take out for two.  Great Chow is just that, so long as you steer clear of the dish that shall be named no more. 

Chow!

Culture, education, Steel Rails and Milkbones

http://pugsbarandgrill.com/

http://www.mos.org/exhibits_shows/planetarium

It's good to get out and learn and expand your mind.  And then it's good to throw it all to the wayside for a couple of pints. 
 
Girls nights usually consist of dinner and drinks or meeting up for a movie and gossip.  This weekend we opted for a little educatin' before our debaucheratin'.  The Museum of Science's Planetarium provided us with a giggle-filled exploration of the night sky.  Interaction is encouraged, but know-it-alls should be banned.  We realize the proximity of the MOS to MIT.  We get it, you're smart.  Just let us regular folks enjoy! 
 
There were lots of planets and constellations for us to map out in the 45 minutes show.  We learned about Ursa Major, the Big Dipper, Saturn, Orion's belt and sword (where the giggles came into play).  Our moderator was very knowledgeable and heavily into the Harry Potter connections to the stars.  We left the MOS more aware of the sky above.
 
And we left Pug's more aware that we like to drink and talk to strangers!  A short drive down Cambridge Street is the long-standing bar Pugliese, or Pug's.  The entire front of the bar faces Cambridge St with big glass, unobstructed windows.  We found seats at a corner along the window and had the perfect view of everything outside as well as everything inside.  To the dismay of our bellies, Pug's was not serving food anymore.  They're between some things and are drinks only right now.  I learned this from the very friendly bartender who ended up being our best friend by the end of the night.  He and everyone else in the place.  I never felt more like I was at a townie bar than I have in my own hometown.  It was great to be accepted and share great beers (Steel Rail, PBR, Stella, Smuttynose, etc, etc) and free shots with these people.  Lots of stories be passed, connections being made, jokes being told.  A great night at a casual bar that had a dog bed and Milkbones by the door.  To the dog who belongs to these things, I apologize that your Milkbones are gone.  I'd check under the stools and behind the bar, though.  I'm sure there are remnants of them around. 

 
If I lived in Cambridge, Pug's is definitely a bar I would keep in my steady rotation for the down home feel and the local flavor. And the MOS will be seeing this revuer again in the future, checking out other exhibits.

Treat yourself! I always do. An amends with Piccola Venezia.

http://www.piccolaveneziaboston.com/

You have a half day of work, live in the city and are cursed with a huge appetite.  Lunch in the North End?  YUP!

But you have some errands to do and take a nice leisurely stroll from the Back Bay, so it's more like an early dinner @ 4pm.  Either way, great idea. 

The early Friday dinner was one of complete spontaneity, which I try never to deny myself.  The beauty of this was, I was on my own so I didn't have to compromise on where to go.  I got my pick of all the lovely restaurants that the North End had to offer.  I decided to hit Piccola Venezia.  Many years back we had a bit of a disagreement with a dissapointing dining experience and I thought I would concede it give it a second chance. 

When I arrived on the scene around 4, PV was just switching over to their dinner menu.  There was 1 large table of high school kiddies that the waiter kindly seated me as way from as possible.  Sorry teenagers, you're loud.  I got a nice corner table and felt very cozy with Julia Child looking down on me from a photo on the wall.  Across the dining room I noticed there was one other party here.  This table was much more pleasing.  It was a group of little Nonas having coffee and dessert.  I imagine they must have had their lunch, too. 

The waiter brought me water and asked if I was alone.  Proudly, I confirmed.  And to drive the independency home, I put in an immediate order of Arancini for an appetizer.  Just for me.  By the time they came out, the teenagers left and peace was restored.  I could then happily eavesdrop on the little nonas, gossiping with a waitress, who clearly knew these woman very well.

The Aranci was a serving of three and very large in size.  The filling was made up of rice, beef, provolone and peas.  Along side was a red pepper aioli and it was a great compliment.  I really liked everything about the Arancini filling, but I do wish they went heavier on the peas because I am a huge fan.  And because they were so filling, I only had 1 and took the others home.  Note - they do not reheat well, so bring enough people to eat them all.

There was a shift change and the dinner staff started to roll in.  Almost every staffer that came in waltzed right over to the table of nonas and said hello and gave hugs and kisses.  I wished I was friends with these little ladies.  They were clearly very popular.

For dinner I decided to go for the Risotto Primavera. I had a visual of what I thought the dish would look like and it couldn't have been more different.  I imagined a small plate with finely diced veggies incorporated into the rice and a pretty garnish of parsley.  What I was served was nothing short of a entire veggie garden.  Every veggie you could think of was in this dish in large slices.  Mushrooms, peppers, onion, broccoli, water chestnuts, peas, tomato, oh my!  It looked like a homemade dish from the kitchen of a loving Italian.  No pretense, no beating around the bush.  Lots of creamy risotto and a lot of fresh roasted veggies.  It was wonderful.  And also very filling.  I didn't even make a dent.  This I took home as well and it reheated very nicely.

And the dining solo did not stop there.  I treated myself, further, to a cannoli and limoncello.  No complaints about either, as you can imagine.  I've never met a cannoli I didn't conquer.

It was nice to make amends with PV and put a successful dining experience between us.  I was very pleased all around and enjoyed taking myself on a date here.  I felt a lot of authenticity and home in there.  PV is definitely redeemed in this blogger's tastebuds.
 
*Please note and commend me on not making one inappropriate and/or immature comment about the Arancini.  (See Solstice blog)

Where's the beef? No, seriously. Where can a Bostonian get a good steak?

Friends, Bostonians, citymen...lend me your steak knives!  And a tip on where to get the best steak in town.

After the word got out that I'd eaten at Fleming's (see previous blog post) many of my friends and family were interested in discussing the merits of such a steakhouse.  And true, my general feeling of underwhelmed could not be masked, I found many of my peers agreed in the general "eh"-ness. 

Some were quick to say, "a steak is a steak", some were of the opinion that there is no difference between a Capital Grille and a Longhorn's.  But the general concensus I noticed was that steaks are highly overpriced and quality has certainly decreased.

What are your thoughts?  Do you love to get dressed up and eat a fillet at the Oak Room?  Do you drive over to the local strip mall and chow down on tips at the Texas Roadhouse?  Do you frequest Ruth's Chris, trying figure out who Ruth and Chris are while chomping on a NY strip?  Or do you prefer the nonassuming sort of places like Pigalle or an Italian spot in the North End? 

What's the best steak you've ever had in Boston?

Fleming's Steakhouse, Restaurant week & my self inflicted Final Four contest...How'd the Steakhouse measure up?

http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com/locations/ma/boston?gclid=CJ_w98GUxKcCFZFoKgodU27dFQ

Good Morning 'buds!  Want to talk about steak at 10:30am?  Because I'd rather talk about Walnut Turtle Pie, want to talk about that?  Let's shall.  Unto the breach....well, revue.

So as you may already know, I imposed a little contest on myself.  Based on your suggestions, 4 restaurants were picked at random to compete in my Final Four competition.  Fleming's is the first of the four that I've patroned.  (See previous blogs for more details and full list of restaurants competing.)

As you know, I am subjecting each venue to a ranking system.  How did Fleming's rank?

Well, let's just talk it out, before I give you the final score.  I had a lovely dining companion last night.  My dear friend, let's call her Wafa, was kind enough to take on Fleming's with me and see if this steakhouse chain was all it's cracked up to be.  We had high but hesitant hopes.  I say that because we understood that there are lots and lots of Fleming's in the country.  Lots.  Have you checked out their website?  I think there are 18 in Arizona alone.  Maybe that's an exaggeration.  Wouldn't be the first time.

Our initial hesitancy also involved the debate: "To steak or not to steak".  Wafa and I both love menus, we love the pre-dining research, so we wondered, "Do we have to get steak when it's predetermined that they have great steak?".  From a blogger's perspective, what would I be telling you that you didn't already know?  It's a Steakhouse!  We discussed this at length, while we sat at the crowded bar, with a great view of the dining area. 

Upon being seated, we looked through the regular menu, just for kicks.  3 pages of wine, 2 pages of food.  Steaks were $30+ on a regular basis, as I expected.  Our busboy immediately brought us bread and water.  The bread was a really good baguette and was accompanied by 2 butters.  1 was garlicy, herbed butter that was really potent.  The other was, what we determined, a sun dried tomato spread.  That was my favorite.  And what I really enjoyed about the bread was that it was sliced in small hunks, so you could eat a few pieces and not feel too guilty.  Very smart.

Our waiter was a very nice gentlemen who took one look at us and knew we were doing the prix fixe Restaurant Week menu.  How'd he know?  Do they have table microphones that they listen to in the back???  So he handed us these sheik little paper menus that offered 3 appetizer choices, 4 entree choices and 2 dessert choices.  Wafa and I put a plan into motion to ensure we did not double order anything.  Let's get right down to it.

My order: The Lobster Bisque, The Petite Fillet Mignon and the Walnut Turtle Pie

Wafa's order: Seared Ahi Tuna, Marinated Breast of Chicken baked in a white wine, mushroom, shallot thyme sauce, Cheesecake with blueberries

Now, let's break it down by course...

The appetizers came out and we both sort of giggled at the Ahi Tuna plate that was placed in front of

Wafa.  The presentation was very pretty...but there sure was a lot of white plate.  Let's just say it looked like tiny food.  Almost cartoonish, because of how small the portion was.  Wafa shrewdly noted that this felt like one of those dishes you see in commercials, bashing tiny portions.  Super little.  I mean, there were about 6 slices of tuna, but it must have been a little baby tuna.  It tasted a lot bigger than it looked, happily!  The outside crust was very peppery and gave a nice spicy contrast to the cool fish.  There was also a marinated carrot slaw on the side and a big drizzle of spicy mustard.  As for the Lobster Bisque, I've never ordered this in my entire life and I'm not too fond of lobster.  But as you may know from my previous blogs, I really enjoy trying things outside my pallet's comfort zone.  This cup of bisque was very rich and buttery, with small hunks of lobster meat.  I wasn't sure if what I was trying was good or not, having no prior experience.  Wafa assured me, it was...in fact, we had this nice polite act going where we let each other try our appetizers and slowly but surely, our dishes did complete 180s and we ended up trading.  I liked the spicy tuna with mustard and she liked the bisque.  What a great date I had with me, right?

Entree time!  Yes, I ordered the Petite Fillet Mignon.  It was between that or the salmon and I just decided to go for the filet.  I really love steak.  I'm not going to lie.  To my vegetarian friends, I am sorry...but that shit's good.  Wafa ordered the Chicken Breast, as I mentioned earlier.  Let's start with the chicken.  It was a double breast, skin on, bones in.  It looked really nice sitting in the complex sauce.  We thought maybe the mushrooms would be more abundant on this dish, but they were diced up finely in the sauce.  It was a very thymey sauce.  We both really liked the chicken.  In fact, I was really jealous...because my fillet was not so hot.  I asked for it medium, but the outside looked really charred on the edges and the piece was really fatty.  The closer I got to the center was, of course, the best part.  But overall, I was underwhelmed.  What I did appreciate was that it was just steak.  No glazes, no frills.  Just the natural flavor.  I like fancy steaks, but you do have appreciate it au natural.  

What I didn't mention earlier is that the menu said that each entree comes with a side of Green Beans and Fleming's potatoes.  We only got 1 order of each.  I'm not quite sure what the disconnect was, but in the end we didn't really care.  So let's knock off the sides real quick.  Trust me, it'll be quick.  The Fleming's Potatoes turned out to be my arch Nemesis, scalloped potatoes.  And we weren't sure at first.  I looked at the side dish and asked, "Is this a white lasagna?".  Then I lifted up the yellowy-orange cheese, that looked like cheez-whiz, and saw the dreaded scalloped taters.  Of course we tried them.  I don't think we came to a final conclusion on them because we didn't really eat them...so maybe we did.  The green beans, on the other hand were fantastic.  Visually, the were the brightest green I've ever seen and tasted fresh and crispy.  They had a little sea salt on them, too, which was really good.

Moving on to desserts, I have to say it.  This was our hands-down favorite course.  The Walnut Turtle Pie was absolutely unlike anything I have ever had before...because I've never had it before.  The cake tasted like unfinished, gooey chocolate batter and the caramel and walnuts made this entire dessert over the top.  The Cheesecake with Blueberrys, simple right?  No muss no fuss, you could say, but the more you took, the more you were all over it and the next thing we knew, it was gone.  I'm talking plate CLEANED.  We tried to clean the plate on the turtle pie, but the last piece became a sort of rock that formed itself to the plate.  We tried with all our mite to extract it, but to no avail.  I can't believe we had to leave that bite behind. Desserts = amazing.

Based on my rating system (see previous blogs), Fleming's scored a 37 out of 48 possible points.  Not a bad score.  Remember, the atmosphere, service and presentation all weigh into the scoring, not just the food.  And Fleming's was a really pleasing to the eye, but very standard.  I did enjoy the fact that could see into the kitchen.  I think that decreases the "stuffy" factor.  Makes you feel a little more relaxed.

Check back next week to see how Fleming's score holds up to Cantina Italiana and Cronin's Pub!

The (South) Shore Part III

http://ortarestaurant.com/

To answer your question, I did do a lot more than eat this weekend. I walked a dog, I cleaned up after a teenager, I elevated my ankle that is banged up from a soccer injury. Caught up on a couple movies and the most recent episode of the Jersey Shore, played some Cityville. But Sunday was my last night in the DUX, so I had to make sure I had one more really good meal.

I was lucky enough to be joined by Sister & Iesha for one final south shore dinner at Orta in Pembroke. This place comes highly recommended by MA, the ScanClan Matriarch. It is one of her favorite local spots.

The interior is so nice and dark. They have the most beautiful candelabra over the main dining room that I have ever seen. I mean, I'm just there for the food, but it really stood out. There are also 2 bars. One in the front, one in the back. We were seated in one of the alcoves on the side, which was really nice. Felt like we had our own little private party. I think we thought we were our own private party because the rum & cokes and processecos were going down nice!
 
But let's get down to business, shall we?  It's great that the place is pretty and the drinks were good.  But we mostly care about the food.  And let me tell you, there was lots of it. 
 
To start we had the Gorgonzola Crostini (a small plate) and the Eggplant Millefoglie (Antipasti).  Both were the prefect size to split amongst 3 of us.  The crostini came out in serving of 2, with honey drizzled all over the plate.  We all agreed that the ratio of cheese to bread was not equal.  The slice of cheese was much too thick, but the more honey you added the crostini, the milder the cheese became.  It was definitely an enjoyable snack once that was all worked out.  I never would think to incorporate honey with cheese.  Looks like I will be from now on, though.  It was so good.
 
The eggplant dish was basically a slice of noodless lasagna.  Slices of baked eggplant were layered with mozzerella and baked with marinara sauce.  It was great.  Familiar.  Definitely tasted like there was a little Italian grandmother in the kitchen whipping this up.  I think it's safe to say that this was our favorite starter.
 
There was a lot to consider for the entrees.  I was definitely thrown off when I heard one of the specials was my beloved butternut squash ravioli - and I LOVE specials.  But I figured I should try a dish on their menu, since it was my first time at Orta.  What I ended up ordering was phenomenal!  The Wild Mushroom Ravioli in a Mascarpone, Parmesan, Herb sauce.  Holy smokes, it was insane.  This is where cream sauces belong (not on haddock - see Part II)!!!  Everyone one of us gals loved it.  Yes, there was lots of taste testing going on.  I think the herb that stood out most in the sauce was the basil.  Perfect.  It would be hard not to order this again.
 
Iesha opted for the Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina in a Tomato, Mozz, Basil cream sauce.  This  was definitely a huge hit with us all.  The gnocchi were perfect, not too heavy and the sauce was delicious.  I even liked the hunks of roasted tomato, which added texture.  There was definitely a lot of, "Do you mind if I just try one more bite?" going on between Sister and myself.  The dish was very pretty to look at, too.  The sauce was a very appetizing orangey-pink and just looking at it, you knew it was going to be crazy good.
 
Sister went a little low key and got the traditional Margherita Pizza.  I think she may have thought it would be a bar style size, but it was more realistically like a medium size pizza.  I don't know how, but I found room to have a slice and I liked it.  It was thin crusted and the fresh basil was very pleasing.  I think it would make a great lunch.  There was leftover,s though, so we brought that home for young Ryan, which he demolished.  So it also gets the seal of approval from a growing boy.
 
I was really glad I convinced Sister and Iesha to take this final journey with me on a Sunday night, knowing work was just hours away.  Whatever sleep we missed, I'd say that it was worth it.  Our 'buds definitely didn't mind!
 
...jeez...I haven't even gotten to dessert yet, have I???  My belly feels full just typing this.  But the blog must go on.  For dessert we ordered the Cannolis, which was a serving of 2, dipped in chocolate chips.  Totally winning, people.  I love the chocolate chip factor.  Poor Sister opted out of the cannoli portion of the evening, which she later regretted.  That's life, Sister.  That's life.  Gotta take the opportunities when they present themselves, otherwise, you're gonna be left behind and cannoli-less.  Hey, I'm older and wiser.  I know you don't turn down the cannoli.  You never turn down the cannoli.  Let's consider this a life lesson.
 
I give Orta my #1 rank out of all the South Shore dining I did this weekend.  I cannot wait to go back and have some more insane pasta and small plates.  Next time a bottle of wine is in order, as well.  This feels like the type of place where you just have to.  And I don't always feel like this.
 
Ok!  Thanks for checking my 3 part revue, 'buds.  I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did, even though I actually got to do the eating and you just do the reading, which now doesn't seem fair.  I should erase this paragraph and start over...
 
PS - I'm going to Fleming's this week, as part of my Final Four contest.  Check back by Thursday evening to catch that Revue and see how it scored!!!

The (South) Shore Part II

http://www.cabbyshack.com/

You know how you watch the Food Network obsessively and drooooooooool over all the food and restaurants they showcase? You do it, right? Well, if you keep a running list of places you aspire to dine, like me, I now have one more to check off my list!


Roomie and I are avid fans/relentless mockers of the show "The Best Thing I Ever Ate". If you aren't hip to it, this show provides each episode with a theme. "Guilty Pleasure", "Best Eaten With a Spoon", "Best BBQ", etc, etc. And the chefs that you see on the Food Network regularly make up the cast of the show and vary every episode. I've seen Giada, Claire Robinson, Bobby Flay, etc. The show also features many people that you may have seen once or twice on certain Food Network reality shows or challenge shows. But regardless of who is featured, we're always mocking someone.

The scripts are almost always filled with double entendres, include extreme close-ups of people chewing and often allow the featured cast memebers to talk with their mouths open. The double entendres are the worst. Don't you know what you're saying??? You should NEVER say the phrase, "It was like an explosion in my mouth.". NEVER.

Ok...where am I going with this??? Ah yes, so Roomie and I saw an episode where Beau McMillian, former Bostonian, raved about the Cabby Shack's Clam Chowdah in a Bread Bowl. Roomie, a fan of chowder, was immediately smitten when they discussed teh fact that the chowder is finished with extra butter on the top. The kid loves butter.

I was on board for adding the Cabby Shack to our list because it's on the water in Plymouth and I thought this would be a great place for the summer. And after going in this weekend, on a dark and balmy March evening, I stand by the fact that I think this place will be great in the summer.

The drive from Duxbury to Plymouth was a real treat, for me. I love seeing the old houses and driving into Historic Plimouth. And when you turn that corner to approach the wharf, knowing the ocean is right in front of you, everything sparkling in twinkle lights, it is very pleasing. I had an immediate visual of what this place can be like in the summer. Outdoor seating, eating dinner after a day at the beach, cold beers, live music. It was a magical day (night) dream. But all the same, I was happy when we arrived and excited to try the chowder.

The inside crowd was definitely that made up of locals. I noticed lots of people were drinking, rather than having dinner. A band was setting up, too.

We immediately decided we would order the chowder as an appetizer and share it. The waitress gave us a knowning nod when we ordered. Guess lots of people go there for the chowder! And it was just like we'd see on TV. The bowl was overflowing and there was an extra peice of bread, toasted, on top. The entire thing was gone in about 4 minutes. Not a smidge left. I thought that it was a very good and traditional chowder. The bread bowl sets it over the top. I also enjoyed the amount of potato in the there. It's always better with lots of potato. I liked it. Roomie LOVED it.

And yes, we ordered entrees, too. Roomie had the Fish & Chips and I had the Baked Stuffed Haddock, a first for me.

The Fish & Chips were excellent. The fish looked prefectly fried and flaked apart the second the fork touched it. My dish was...interesting, as I now realize that I am not big on seafood that has any sort of cream on it. (Sort of why I am not a huge fan of Clam Chowder. I eat all the potatos and bread, but I leave the clams.) The stuffing on the haddock was definitely crab meat, which was nice. However, for me, the lobster cream sauce on top was not what my taste buds wanted. It was a delicious sauce, don't get me wrong...I just couldn't really enjoy it on the haddock. And the stuffing is not something I'm into, as I also now know. I am definitely a standard Baked Haddock type of gal. No crab stuffing or cream sauce. That being said, each entity of the dish was good and well made. I am sure someone who doesn't have this weird neurosis would love this dish.

It is already decided that WHEN (not if) we go back this summer I am getting the mussles and Roomie is getting one of the lobster dishes.

All in all, we're glad we listened to the Food Network and can check this spot off our To-Dine list. But now it's moved to our, Gotta Go Again list.

The Chowdah was pissah! Go try it!
 
(Check back for Part III on 3/8!!!)

The (South) Shore Part I

http://www.whatareyoucraving.com/

What a weekend on the Shore! Snooki was there eating fried pickles, The Situation was cooking up a storm and complaining that non of the girls ever did anything...man. Then it was T-shirt time and all hell broke loose...

...but in reality, I was on the South Shore in good old Massachusetts. Duxbury, to be precise. While there doing a little public service for the ScanClan (see my Solstice Revue) I figured this was the perfect opportunity to give my 'buds some Southern exposure.

The first thing I did when I arrived at the casa de ScanClan was find out where the take out menus were. I needed dinner, I knew I was in for the night and it had to be delivery. Not DiGiorno, delivery.

All the local chinese food places caught my attention immediately, but non delivered. NOT winning. But at the suggestion of young Ryan, I settled on Cravings for my dinner. The second I saw Pom Frites on the menu, I was hooked!!! And I found a wrap that stood out as my #1 choice among a long list of hard-to-choose-from items.
The Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wrap was so good and so filling. It was the perfect base chicken salad with lots of herbs. The cranberry and pecans added an awesome flavor and texture. I love cranberry anything. And these were no craisins (which I also love). These were real hunks of cranberry. They did not skimp. It was so good that I also had this for lunch on Sunday.
In addition to my wrap, I had the Pom Frites both Friday and Sunday. They offer a selection of dipping sauces, of which I opted for the Garlic Mayo. Shocker, right? Garlic anything wins. I may have gained 17 lbs this weekend.

Aside from the wraps and pom frites, they offer subs, paninis, pizzas and salads. The range is wide, offering basics to imaginative creations. I wish there was a Cravings in Boston!
On Sunday, I should mention that I got off my rump and picked up the food. I was glad I did because I got to see their dessert display case. Lots of cupcakes and brownies. Eclairs and lemon bars, too. They all looked like works of art, but I had to refrain from getting any. The pom frites were enough of an indulgance for one weekend.
Here's hoping for the day I wake up in my beloved DOT and see a Cravings in my backyard! Cravings gets a round of applause from me and my 'buds!

Guilt free with Gilt City!

https://www.giltcity.com/city/slide_register?pkey=googlebrand&opsearch=Google

http://www.typhoonboston.com/

Ok 'buds.  I just found your next favorite website, second to Boston Revue, of course. 

For happenings in and around your city, check out Gilt City!  They have discounts, offers, inside scoops on things happening!  Right now in Boston you can get a nice deal for Typhoon (Boston & Hingham).  I fully intend to take advantage!

The deal for Typhoon is $25 for a $50 Lunch gift card and $50 for a Dinner gift card.  But shop wisely, 'buds.  These have an expiration date of June 1st!

Sign up for Gilt City, but remember, Boston Revue is your favorite.  It's your favorite.  (How's my convincing?)

Some things Boston Revue readers can expect to see this Spring/Summer

Self-imposed activites that involve sun, food, cocktails and friends?  "WINNING!"  I'm so excited about my upcoming projects.  I must have tiger blood running through my veins...rawr?

Whilst (awesome word) in the midst of my Final Four challenge (see previous blog entries), I have cooked up more ideas that I'm really excited about.  I hope you will be, too!  And hey, you can even be involed, if you like.  Interactive blogging!  Winning!!!  I just blinked and the idea came to me.  I'm such a goddess.

Keep reading to see my upcoming challenges and how/if you can be involved!

The Uncle Challenge
During the weeks leading up to the Final Four challenge, I got an email from my uncle, who suggested I a pull an all nighter, much like he is known for doing, and hit 4 spots in one night!  He then gave me a run down of the places to go and why(I'll fill you in later on that).  Immediately I thought, "Wow, I have to make sure I try all these places.".  Let's just say when it comes to food, quality and locations, Uncle knows what he's talking about.  He means business.  SO!  I am self-inflicting the Uncle Challenge - 4 restaurants in 1 night!  For now, the 4 restaurants/details are going to remain underwraps, as I map out when I can make this happen...Ok, let's be honest.  I'm waiting for the warm weather.  I want to hop on my T and trapse around my city in sandals.  I'm so sick of claudhopping boots and full on snow gear.  This is definitely one to stay tuned for, 'buds: Boston Revue vs. The Uncle Challenge...can I do it? (The interative part is that I might recruit YOU to join me!!!)

The Boston Outdoor Challenge
Around May you'll see more details for this one.  Again, I'm holding out for the warm weather.  Hey, I am a huge fan of having things to look forward to, okay?!  Here is what I can share for now, which could give those of you who care a slight advantage!
1. This challenge is to combine my loves of outdoor eating/drinking and learning about new places in Boston.
2. I will be asking my readers and Facebook friends for suggestions of places in Boston that offer outdoor seating.  Of the suggestions I receive, I will pick 5 - 10 (TBD) of these places, go and then blog about them to create: Boston Revue's Guide to Summer.  Of the places selected to be included, I will pick a favorite based on a similar rating system to the Final Four challenge.  The place that earns the #1 spot will earn the person who suggested it a gift card (amount/location TBD b/c I want to think of something realllly good).
3. The interactive part here, is that you get to participate and could potentially win the #1 spot/prize.

Just typing this up makes me think about beers on a patio, sundresses and t-shirts.  I think I can smell sunscreen, too.  Jeez...Well, I hope you're looking forward to these adventures in dining as much as I am!!!

-This blog was brought to you from the Sober Valley Lodge and is filled with violent love.

The results are IN! My Final Four are...

Hey buds!  The Final Four have been picked! 


Thanks to each and every participant.  And if you dont see your entry/name below, fear not my 'buds!  I am going to be doing more and more of these contests, based on how much fun we had putting this one together.  Roomie and I had a blast anticipating this day and so have my readers.  I really appreciate it!

Ok, enough of the flowery yadda-yadda...Onto the Final Four!

Villa Roma
Flemings 217
Cronins Pub
Cantina Ristorante

I will be hitting up each of these restaurants this month...I am wicked excited.  My 'buds are doing a little dance.  Keep checking back here and on FB to find read about my revues of each and see how the Final Four will pan out.

March is looking really yummy!!!  Stay tuned, 'buds!

What are you doing @ 7pm???

I'd love to insert Dick Vitale's voice here to shout at you: It's March Maddness on Boston Revue!!!

Check back @ 7pm to see if your entry was chosen for my  Final Four.

Brief Reminder:  I will be picking 4 random entries tonight.  Then this month I will dine @ all 4 restaurants (I know, tough life, right?).  All 4 restaurants will be subject to same ranking system.  The restaurant that tallies the highest score will be ranked #1 and win.  If you entered said restaurant, you will WIN a $25 Phantom Gourmet Gift card!!!

***You DO STILL have time to submit entries.  They're constantly trickling.  It's not too late.  7pm is your deadline.

A night of Mexican food and good friends

http://www.anejomexicanbistro.com/

Anejo:

Tequila aged in oak barrels for more than a year, the process resulting in a golden amber color with a soft, smooth, and complex finish.

Who: Me & my friends, the Apples: LMac & KMac
Why: Because LMac did some research on hot spots in Falmouth center
Dinero: $$ - $$$ (house specials/entrees can spike it up)

Initially, Sunday was going to consist of me and LMac hitting the mean streets of Falmouth in fun outfits for a girl's night out.  Anejo was always part of the plan.  But when Sunday morning rolled around, the plan changed a bit. 

Turns out my girl, LMac was not feeling too well.  Truth be told, neither was I.  But we were so committed to hanging out and catching up, that we rallied and edited our plans to ensure an evening of togetherness...and fully bellies.

I put on my best sweats and made the nice drive to Falmouth, MA.  I love driving to the Cape.  It's one of my most favorite places to be.  And instead of going out on the town w/ our sore throats and runny noses, we had a nice night in, with the entire Apple Family, including the little MACs: NannyMac and LittleGuyMac.

After lots of visiting, ring-a-round the rosie sessions and pirate cartoons, we decided to order out from Anejo to get our dinner fix.  KMac even ran out to get us some cervesas (maybe some Jagger, too...).  I believe we called in our order around 6pm and were given about a 25 minute wait for pick up.  Not too bad, considering it was a long weekend and probably a busy night.  The way we ordered was to get things that everyone might like so we could all share.  Sharing is caring.

LMac and I went to pick up the food.  While I waited patiently in the car, I tried like a crazy person to get a look at what the restaurant looked like.  I eyed 1 really pretty mosaic tile piece of artwork and one portrait.  It was dimly lit and looked very nice inside, from what I could see.  When LMac ran back out with the food she said the place was so nice inside, super busy and really fun.  She even spotted a server making homemade guacamole at a table for some diners.  We immediately decided we'd be back to eat in - and we hadn't even tried our food yet.

On the menu for us that evening: the starter salsa trio, 3 sides guacamole w/ chips, the Classic Burrito w/ steak & salsa verde, the Pescado baja battered cod tacos and the Chicken Tostada.  (Everything we ordered was off of the Taqueria section of the menu, with exception to the starters/sides.)

The Fresh Salsa Trio was a nice little treat, since not all our meals came with salsa.  It was a consensus that of the 3, we all liked the pico de gallo and the salsa verde.  We weren't too interested in the fire roasted chipotle salsa.  Not to say it's not good.  It just wasn't our cup of ...salsa.  The Guacamole, on the other hand, was pleasing to everyone.  It was delicious.  My side was gone in seconds.

Of the meals we ordered, our least favorite was the Chicken Tostada.  It was a layered dish: a thin, crunchy tostada topped with shredded chicken and loooooooots of lettuce.  There was said to be some beans and some dressing, according to the menu.  But I don't remember any of that.  It was quite boring.  Not bad or inedible.   Just boring. 

Our favorite dish: the Pescado, aka, Fish Tacos. Baja battered cod with spicy baja sauce that was incredible. Thank god the portion was 2, so LMac and I could both have one. I think we wished we had ordered dos orders of the Pescado. Incredible. I talked about them all the next day to Roomie.

The Classic Burrito was really good too. It was gigantico and topped with sour cream and lettuce. It was a site to see. The steak inside was soo delicious and perfectly cooked. I would definitely order this next time, or recommend it to someone.

Oh, and we can't forget what else was on the menu: Perdue chicken nuggets and corn. NannyMac ate dinner with us in her big girl chair...I may have stolen some of her corn. I would say Nanny gave her dinner 2 thumbs up.

We really enjoyed our meal and the company, no matter what setting we were in.  It was fun to be with friends and enjoy good food and some laughs.  I know we'll definitely make the venture to eat in at Anejo in the future and for that, I cannot wait.  I believe I will order one of the entree dishes when I eat there to get a totally different idea of what they're all about.

Between myself and the Apples, I'd say we give Anejo 3 tequila sunrises! 

(Side Note - be sure to check out the "about" section on Anejo's website.  Their story is nice.  I was really interested to find out the artwork they display is from a local Cape Codder, which is so fitting with the Cape Cod way of life.  Cape Cod Pride & Loyalty!  Love it.)

Boston Revue's mother revues Mother Anna's



Ba-da-bing! Eh!  It's Mother Anna's

Who: Mother & Steve-o

When: Valentine's Day xoxoxoxo

Why: Because I told them to

Where: 211 Hanover St, Boston MA

Thanks to Mother for being my first guest blogger!  Her revue is short, sweet and to the point.  No fuss, no muss.  Check it out:

I was pleasantly surprised. From the outside, it did not look like anything special. Inside not much better, dated and a bit tacky. But sitting there for a few minutes you could see people were regulars and it was full. We got a table right away. The menu looked good. I was trying to do a no carb dinner, which I thought would be tough, but I found something right away. 

I had an Eggplant dish that was basically Lasagna. But instead of noodles, they layered the ricotta and eggplant.  It was a huge portion and very good. The sauce was homemade.  I had the option of pasta or a salad with it.

(Steve-o) got the Veal Margarita, which was recommended by (Roomie). Basically a veal cutlet with prosciutto and cheese.  Sooo good!
 
Thanks Mother!  If I could impose a little, I'd like to add my 2 cents...(I'm just being polite.  It's my blog.  I can impose infinity.)
 
I've been to Mother Anna's during the summertime and got to sit outside on the Patio.  The patio is so nice, especially if you enjoy seeing the hustle and bustle of people walking by.  A great people watching site.  Roomie and I went there with our friends Bernie and N-G.  It was really nice to sit outside with friends and eat and have some drinks.  I can't remember what anyone else ordered, but I remember my dish perfectly. 
 
I ordered what may have been a special.  It was a linguine pasta dish that was covered in a garlicy wine sauce and covered in sauteed mushrooms, artichokes and sun dried tomatoes.  It was killer.  I've replicated it it a few times and been really happy.  I've actually substituted the linguine and mushrooms for ravioli stuffed with mushrooms. 
 
I believe it's safe to say that Mother Anna's gets the family seal of approval!  Check it out for yourselves!

March Madness Points & Ranking System

MARCH MADNESS is only 13 days away, so keep sending your Restaurant Suggestions to Boston Revue's NEW Facebook page or to BostonRevue@gmail.com.

On March 1st I will randomly select 4 submissions to compete in a Final Four Challenge, which we'll document for you all, so you can see the picking was fair and square.  Like I always say, Fair is fair and not is not.  I will go out to eat at the all Four restaurants that are chosen.  The restaurants will then be subject to a points system.  The restaurant that accumulates the most points will win a $25 Phantom Gourmet Gift Card from yours truly!!!

Points System:
1 - 6 pts per category. 1 = worst, 6 = best

Restaurant
Cleanliness: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(table, general dining room area, bathroom)
Atmosphere: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(temperature, other diners, mood, lighting, music, volume)
Service: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(promptness, accuracy, approachability, attitude, includes host/hostess/busers)
Table Presentation: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(all diningwares provided, bread on table, water service, napkins provided, table clutter)
Affordability: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(prices are reasonable based on location, demographic, portion sizes, time of dining)

Food
Presentation: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(temperature, plating, portion size, creativity)
Appetizer Taste: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(based on general tastes of what is ordered compared to what one would expect)

Entree Taste #1: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(based on general tastes of what is ordered compared to what one would expect - if soup/salad come with Entree, that is factored into these points)
Entree Taste #2: 1 2 3 4 5 6
(I will be dining with a companion and try their entree.  Same points ranking applies as Entree#1)


A possible 48 points in all.

***Tie breaker (if needed), the dining companion will have been allowed to rank the experience on their own, using the above system.  IF a tie occurs, I will then combine the scores I've tallied with the scores that my companion has tallied.  Then the restaurant with the highest combined score will win.***

Keep your restaurant entries coming on FB or via email. On March 1st, find out which restaurants compete in the Final Four - it could be yours!!!

Boston Revue's March Madness!!!

Hey 'buds! Welcome to Boston Revue March Madness!!!
Here we go! Starting tonight, I need your help to get March Madness underway. I need your suggestions of places to dine out in March. If I take your selection, you will automatically be entered into the rankings to win the NCAA…wait…to win a $25 Phantom Gourmet Giftcard!

Let me detail this thing out for you:
1. Please start bombarding our FB Inbox with legitimate suggestions (McDonalds and any places outside MA or RI won't be considered)
2. At Random, I will pick the Final Four and annouce these top 4 ranked restaurants on March 1st.
3. Throughout March I will keep you aware of my dining experiences and let you know about the date I will announce the winner of the $25 Gift Card.

So let your 'buds be your (er, my) guide and send me your suggestions starting NOW!

PS - Coming soon to a Facebook near you - Boston Revue joins the social network!!!

PPS - If you win, you have to be comfortable giving me your address so I can mail you the card. I will post a photo of the gift card purchase receipt onto my website & FB so all can see, too.

A spot that is creeping up in the realm of All Time Favorites: The Franklin

http://www.franklincafe.com/

(Photo to come...Blogger is being a sour apple)


Where: 152 Dorchester Avenue, South Boston

When: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
$$$ = Worth every penny
Frequent co-eaters at this establishment: Sister, Iesha, Dreama, Roomie
Brought into my life by: James, to whom I bow down as if he were Ice Cube
Recent Dishes consumed: Handcut Fries, Korean Barbecue Tacos, Sweet Chili Glazed-make you want to die it's so good-Eggplant.

Carole King, did you write a song about this place...because The Franklin is a hit every single season;  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall! (Insert your snarky eye-rolling, here, please.)  And yes, it is good to know you've got a friend.  I'd like to take this opportunity to thank James (not Taylor); a friend who showed me the light. When I was just a poor lonely gal living at home with parents, he knew just where to take me.

Every since our dinner a couple years back, I've done my civic duty and forced people to go here again and again and again.  I quite often take Sister hostage.  She's a pretty big fan by now.  It's the first place she ever laid ears on Florence + the Machine, I might add.  Always a plus, having your ears enjoy the establishment as well as your 'buds.

I've also graced the Franklin w/ Iesha and Dreama, who were lovely dates.  Our date was during the Summer season and we got to sit out on the back patio at night.  It was really nice.  We also had the pleasure of ordering their summer cocktails.  The Cucumber Collins is probably one of the greatest mixed drinks I've ever had.  It's very subtle on the cucumber, heavy on the bubbles and I think I always taste a little lime in there.  Lime is always good.

My most recent trek here was just a few weekends ago, with Sister.  Sure it's cold, but it's only steps from the Broadway T stop, so who cares?  We arrived around 7:30ish.  Maybe closer to 8.  The place was pretty packed, including the bar area.  However, there was this one lonely table right by the hostess stand that people kept turning down.  But guess who didn't?  These Sweeneys.  Sorry suckers!  We're not seriously pretentious enough to turn down a table, just cause it's not in the back and we might get whacked with a cannoli.  We were hungry, we had to be at a concert before 10, we're not picky, give us the food.  To be honest, I think people were intimidated by the proximity to the door and possibility of catching a draft when it opened.  Never happened.

Before dinner, we were served their standard bread and rolls with hummus spread.  Very good and very addicting.  I love this trend of serving hummus rather than butter.  I'm not a big fan of bread and butter.  And when I say "not a big fan", I mean, not a fan at all.  Drinks were a beer for sister and a vodka & seltzer for me.  Nothing too fancy.  In the past we've ordered Proseco, wine.  They've got fun options for it all.

For starters we ordered the Hand Cut Fries, which were definitely seasoned with garlic and truffle oil.  A delicious trend that I've seen taking over the starches.  And I'm not complaining.  (I just had a Gilmore Girls moment...do you think people out there really consider French Fries the Devil's starchy fingers?)

Dinner was quite Asian, if I do say so myself.  Sister got the Korean BBQ Tacos, which are actually an appetizer.  I got the Sweet Chili Glazed Eggplant over Kimchi Fried Rice. 

I know the Korean BBQ Tacos are good because I've had them with Roomie in the past.  They're very delicious.  The portion is 2 flat shell tacos, that are piled with meat and julienned veggies, best eaten with a fork and knife.  They're quite kick ass.  And of course the Eggplant dish was amazing because, say it with me now, it was Sweet and Spicy!!!  Bapbabadah!  (That's my typographical impression of a trumpet sounding.)  The eggplant was presented on the rice in 2 long strips, which I thought looked really pretty.  I like pretty food.  The ratio of the sauce to the food was just right.  I don't like when the sauce out numbers the food. 

Another fun little perk about the Franklin is that with the exception of 1 dining experience, I've always been served by Sal, a nice guy who always recognizes me and is very good at suggesting an entree or a bottle of wine.  He's always smiling and attentive.  Sometimes I want to hug Sal, and I'm very awkward about hugging.

We didn't get dessert this time around.  In the past, Sister and I have had the Creme Brulee, which is pretty good.  It's one of Sister's favorite desserts, so her approval means something.  I like it enough to share.  I couldn't eat an entire portion on my own.  But that is anywhere and should not directly reflect anything specific about the Franklin's.

I also enjoy the darkness of the restaurant and, again, the really good music.  The outdoor space is so nice when the weather permits and their ever rotating menus are really exciting.  And to add to this rave, they also have a Gluten Free and Vegetarian menu.  Their specials are always really exciting, too.

The next time I go back, I'm getting Tempura Fried Artichokes.  I give this place a 4 Seasons rating with an Indian Summer, to boot.  Go there.  Take me with you.

Where were my WiseMen when I needed them? A Review of the North Star on Friend Street



It sucked.

Phantom Gourmet Gift Cards

Ever watch that fun little show on Sunday mornings called The Phantom Gourmet?  (Hungover, lying on the couch, clutching your pillow, trying not to barf while they talk about cheese and mushrooms and pork butt...No?  Just me?)  They tour local restaurants, taste test hundreds of dishes and give you great suggestions.  The food on their episodes always look so good (despite the hangover) and I always want to go to the places they showcase...

...Well, now I can.  And so can YOU!  There's a lovely little thing now called the Phantom Gourmet Gift Card.  Roomie got one for Christmas and I am so excited.  We can take this card and use it anywhere they're accepted!  That's a lot of fun.  Not to mention, if you do not use the entire amount of our card at the restaurant we chose, we can save it and put towards another outing to any other PG approved restaurant!  As Miley Cyrus would say, that's pretty cool.

The website is a little funky, but once it works, it shows you the list of restaurants, by region, that approve the PG card.  I highly suggest buying some of these, at your local mall kiosks, for gifts...I know I'd be happy to get one!!!

http://www.phantomgourmetcard.com/

Keg Party? Nah. Silpada Party? Nah. Crock-pot Party? YES, please!

Hey 'buds!  How's your holiday season going?  I celebrate Christmas, so Merry Christmas!

Speaking of holidays, mine started off with a bang!  Or should I say, with a crock!  A Crock-pot, mind you.  And not just one crock-pot.  More like 11!!!  Why, you ask?  Because you can cook anything in a crock-pot and because we invited over a ton of friends and family over under the stipulation that they bring something made in a crock-pot!

Roomie and I cleared out the guest room and created a food room.  There, we housed all the CPs with enough bowls and spoons to make sure everyone got to try everything. 

We had the following participants:

Walnut Meatballs
Lemon Chicken Soup
Chicken & Dumplings
Chicken Caccitore
Veggie Chili
Mashed Potatoes w/ seasonings to add on your own
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Pumpkin Soup w/ apple and cranberry Chutney
Chocolate Fondu
um...
Sloppy Joes
...ok, maybe there weren't 11.

Everyone had fun trying each dish and going back for 2nds, 3rds and 4ths.  It was a fun and creative way to kick off the holidays.  I highly suggest hosting an event on your own!  You never know what people will bring. 

Sweet Potato Cheesecake w/ Candied Pecans

Thanksgiving has come and gone.  Are you still in a food coma, like me?  I ate 2 Turkey dinners on Thanksgiving and then a 3rd just a few days after.  I don't know if my stomach will ever forgive me.  But I know my tastebuds are really pleased with me because I allowed them to make nice with their best friends: Mashed Potatoes.  I'd been avoiding them in my quest for losing 30 for 30 (drop 30 lbs in honor of hitting my 30th year).  It was like old times, you know?  Like no time had passed.  It was romantic...wait...

...This is a post about cheesecake!  Sweet Potato Cheesecake to be exact.  I made two Cheesecakes using the measurements that I am going to provide below.  So keep that in mind, Forks!  I hope your tastebuds will be as happy as mine were!

Preheat oven: 350*

Crust: store bought graham cracker crust is fine

Cream Cheese Filling ingredients (Mix together in seperate bowl):

3 eggs

2 pkgs cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup sugar

1 tsp vanilla

Sweet Potato Filling ingredients (mix together in seperate bowl):

2 cans sweet potato or yams, needs to be drained/pureed

1 little pinch of salt

Nutmeg, to taste

1/2 tsp vanilla

1/4 cup sugar

Candied Pecan ingredients:

1 bag Pecans

1/2 stick butter

3/4 cup sugar

Cheesecake topping ingredients:

1 cup confectioners sugar (3/4 a cup if you want it more tangy)

1 small container of sour cream

And away we go!

Mix together all ingredients listed above for the Cream Cheese filling in it's own bowl using a hand mixer on low/medium, until smooth.  Next, mix together all the ingredients listed above for the Sweet Potato filling in it's own bowl using a hand mixer on low/medium, until smooth.

Once you are satisfied with the consistency of each mixture, it is time to pour them into your pie crust.  Alternate layers of cheese and potato fillings.  Don't worry if they run together or if the potato filling doesn't spread as neatly as you'd like.  Fill the pie crust just shy of the top edge.  Once you've filled the pie crust with your filling, take a butter knife and run if through out the filling, making zig-zags, which will marble the filling and make it pretty when you slice open the finished product.  Now, it's time to bake! 

Pop that sucker in the oven on 350* for 35 - 45 minutes.  And while it bakes, work on the other stuff!!!

To make the sour cream topping, combine the confectionary sugar and sour cream in a bowl and mix well. Set aside until cheesecake is finished/cooled.

Candy the pecans by melting butter on Medium heat in a skillet, sauce or saute pan. Your preference. As it melts, add in the bag of pecans and make sure they're coated w/ the butter. Once the butter is compeltely melted, add the sugar and stir to make sure that every pecan is covered. After about 5 minutes, these should be done. Set aside and allow these to cool before topping the cheesecake.

Once your cheesecake is done baking, set it aside to cool.  Once it is cooled, you can then top it with your sour cream and then cover with your candied peacans.  Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Enjoy it, 'buds!

Be my guest, Be my guest!

Well, Forks, I'm not offering to tell jokes or do tricks with my fellow candlesticks.  But I am offering you a job!  Zootaleur!

Qualifications: Must have appetite, tastebuds, willingness to leave the house, possess motor skills, such as putting your fork to mouth and have the ability to form sentences!  If you meet these qualifications, please continue reading, below.

Guest Revue-er Wanted: A reader of my blog who is willing to revue their own dining experience and allow me post it on this blog.  Your entry can be long and elaborte, it can be your own format, your own style.  It can be something as simple as, "I really enjoyed the McFish sandwich at McDonald's.  Extra tarter sauce really increases it's value.".  There is no right or wrong.

So!  I'm accepting applications and am ready to begin this screening process.  Please submit your entries to: kristenelizabethsweeney@gmail.com.

Well pilgrims, it's almost that time of year again!  I mean, for the rest of the world, it'll just be regular  November 25th.  But for us freedom lovers, it's the day we break out the good china and silverware, loosen our belts and OD on pie and football; it's Thanksgiving!  High-five, America!

I actually don't eat turkey on Thanksgiving.  Partly because I don't like it and partly because I'm afraid of Turkeys.  Did you know that live turkeys plague my office campus?  They travel in packs and they are often angry.  I've seen them fight, I've seen them fly and I've seen them chase each other.  They're gross little buggers.

Most of you know of my mashed potato obsession.  I usually stuff my face with starches on turkey day.  I like to take the potatoes, stuffing and corn and mash it all together and eat a lovely little side dish medley.  So, suck it Boston Market and KFC!  I was making these combos before you even started selling real meat!

Growing up, many of our Thanksgivings were also graced w/ a nice traditional...lasagna.  Hey, I have a little Italian grandmother.  The pilgrims would have loved her.  I think a lot of families do untraditional favorites of their own, too! 

Oh hey (insert coy light bulb here)!  Since I have this handy-dandy blog, why not share your favorite part about Thanksgiving in the "COMMENTS" section, below?  I would love to have some blogging interaction. 

Feel free to share anything you want about Thanksgiving, what your family eats, recipes, general comments, etc.  And check back often to see what people are saying!  It's fun!  Don't be shy!  It's the internet, no one can see you!

Gooble, gooble, tastebuds! 

Scandalous Specials @ Solstice

Who: The family (Steve-o, Karen & Sister),  Roomie and our lovely hosts, the ScanClan (Dave, M.A. & Young Ryan)

Where: Solstice - Kingston, MA
Atmosphere: A renovated train depot w/ exposed brick and good lighting, for those who aren't 29 anymore.
What: Dinner, drinks…balls?

30 years old never tasted so good! Back in my day…ok, I'm not ready to talk like that yet. But again, if this is how you eat when you turn 30, then I'll take it and leave my 20s in the fast food drive-thru.


The matriarch of the ScanClan, the lovely M.A., was kind enough to organize a little outing between our families to celebrate the my birthday. Entirely too nice, as always! Appetizers and cocktails led off our night: Crimson martinis, Champagne martinis, cheeses baked in filo, shrimp…and we're not even @ the restaurant yet! It was a great start to the evening.

From there, my personal driver (thank you Young Ryan) drove us to the restaurant where we had a small wait before being seated at a large round table. I like the round tables. Everyone gets a good view of the entire party and you can all hear each other. Although, we Sweeney's voices are locked to outdoor-mode, so you can always hear us.

Enter Jackie, our sweet and patient server. She was nice, funny and thought I was a school teacher. Tell me the specials, and I'll be whatever you want Jackie. I LOVE hearing the specials. And she got through the specials nicely; a shear pro, because I thought I was the only one who wanted to laugh during the specials recitation, until my dad (Steve-o) asked, "What was that 2nd one again?". Jackie pleasantly replied, "Lamb balls. It's the Lamb Balls. They're balls…oh.". Sorry Jackie. You got Sweeney'd.

To clarify, the Lamb balls were officially Arancini, and sister was more than happy to order them. And no, it was never not funny. Ah, I'm so glad I still have my sense of humor in my old age.

Young Ryan (yes, we let the driver eat with us) ordered the calamari, which of course, we all had to dig in on. It was delish. There was a seasame-ish/soy-ish dipping sauce that I've never thought to use for this appetizer. Big success. Much better than any cocktail sauce or marinara. I usually never dip calamari in anything. That was some good squid. For an entree, he had the Steak Frites, no veggies. He had the misfortune of sitting next to me, so I can tell you, that was one of the best steaks I have ever had and I plan to order it the next time I go. There will be a next time. Is it too soon to tell you that? I mean c'mon…we all know this revue is a rave. Let's not fake it. Back to the Frites! They came w/ a nutmeg-y ketchup and a garlic-y mayo. Homerun. This place knows what it means to dip!

Roomie got a special Sole over a Celery Puree w/ fried lemon pieces. It was magical. If you don't like munching on celery or were deprived of Ants on a Log as a kid, it's ok. Celery Puree is way better than both of those things. And I've never had a piece of fried lemon in my life. It was genius. Slice it, bread it, fry it. Yup. I will, thanks.

M.A. had the delicious Sea Scallops over a Lobster Risotto, I should know. I sat only 1 seat away from her. That plate was not safe. We all know how I feel about lobster…so it should mean a lot when I say (type) that it was one good dish. We discussed this at length. Yes, lobster was definitely a hot topic, aside from the balls.


I cannot believe I failed to mention the salads. I need to structure these revues in a more cohesive manner…but I'm busy. The salads were crazy! Roomie and I shared the caser, as we often to do. The Solstice ceaser is now tied for 1st place for the best cease salad I've ever had. This dressing was creamy and for a little plot twist, it had a think balsamic glaze drizzle on top. It was like candy. And it was a wicked good idea. Balsamic glaze = peace on earth, my friend. It could save the world one tastebud at a time. Sister and M.A. both got the Warm Medjool Dates stuffed with Goat Cheese salad with a Blood Orange Dressing. I am not sure if I've ever tried dates, but I can now tell you, if it's warm and stuff w/ goat cheese, I'm a #1 fan. That salad was something I've never seen before…it even intrigued Roomie, who does not do funky cheeses.

My meal was a seasonal favorite, but not a special.  I got the Butternut Ravioli in a warm sage butter sauce.  They offer an appetizer portion and an entree portion.  I was sort of full at the time of ordering, so I considered the app portion...but let's be honest.  I got the entree and ate the entire thing.  It was incredible.  It was sweet and savory and perfect.


Karen (Mother) had the pork chop, which Steve-o said he would get if he went back. So that was a hit. Dave (the head of the ScanClan) got the Lamb Trio w/ was a Shank, some Wellington and a T-bone all in one. Looked and smelled amazing. Even got a little doggie bag for…the dog. Bailey. She was in Doggie Heaven!


Am I forgetting anything? The wine! The Malbec was awesome. An Argentinean bottle w/ lots of legs. I think? I know it was amazing, even prompting Karen to say it was the best glass of red wine she's ever had…and she's had her share, if you know what I mean. (Um...If you don't know what I mean, I mean that she drinks a lot of red wine. Also, you should get out more.)


To sum up, I believe I will quote…myself…"genius", "amazing", "wicked good idea"…"balls"…wow, I say a lot! Solstice was so nice and I am so thankful to the ScanClan for putting together this evening @ such an awesome place. I also thank you, Jackie, our server, for not losing your mind w/ our rowdy group. You're a saint, Jackie. A saint!


I give Solstice 2 long, fruity legs and 3 balls! A major success and place I plan to grace again soon.


***One complaint? The water boy called me ma'am. It's miss! Miss! Oh man. Early bird specials are right around the corner aren't they?