Well, it is Restaurant Week in Long Beach this week . Last night, I went to my most favorite "GO TO" places in town for dinner & in addition to a GREAT $19 3 course special dinner for the week featuring a salad, an entree & dessert, they now offer some NEW GREAT options!
Mondays- Surf ' OR' Turf- All you can handle Amazing Meatloaf OR Mussels- Both offered for $16 (GSR Burgers-"Grandma's Special Recipe" Only $5!
Tuesdays- Buy one entree & get the seconds for half price
Wednesdays- Wine Down- BYO w/ NO corking fee or Half price on all bottles
Thursday is Steak Night w/ Choice of steak, a salad & potato for $24
Well, I just had to try the meatloaf as his burgers & meatballs are sooooo good & its was fantastic! Moist, flavorful , huge and incredibly Delicious (as I expected)
My husband had the crab crusted wild bass- outstanding!! Served over sauteed spinach & mashed potatoes - YUM!
I love this place- Alan, the owner, always greats his guests with a smile - the decor is so eclectic- & the ever changing menu is always unique, and just consistently so good.
Music on many evenings & large screens so you can catch a game if you so choose by the bar. The booths are cozy, warm & romantic .
He now also offers BRUNCH on the weekends!
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Monday, October 15, 2012
The Capital Grille
TONe of the most fabulous dining experiences recently was this weekend at the newly opening (just four days) Capitale Grille in the Roosevelt Field Shopping Mall ( what will soon be known as Restaurant Row)
They have several restaurants all over the country but this is by no means your typical "CHAIN!)
From the moment you enter, the staff is warm, friendly, attentive and extremely knowledgable..
The decor is rich & elegant, with dark woods, trendy lounge & bar area (where you will need to (happily) wait for a drink or eat at the bar if you do not have a reservation!)
The dining room is beautiful with a huge wine wall behind glass and lovely table settings all around the open kitchen.
(There is also a small room which accomodates 30 for a private party)**
The menu is HUGE! From fabulous appetizers including the enormous & incredibly delicious seafood tower with some of the freshest oysters I have ever eaten! Served with several dipping sauces including a wonderful tangy mustard sauce, whole lobsters, jumbo shrimp, fresh lump crabmeat & of course, oysters- FANTASTIC!
The entrees include many carnivores porterhouse, filet mignon, bone in sirloin, delmonicos (both plain grilled & porcini rubbed) and huge double cut lamb chops are among the favorite dream items- mouth watering! (all cooked to perfection I might add)
The fish selections also wonderful, especially the jumbo stuffed shrimp with not only crabmeat but LOBSTER! YUM!
Sides include not just the usual steak house fare, but also many new delicious options such as the parmesan truffle fries, haricot verts w/ roasted shallots & cherry tomatoes, and more!
The Wine list is vast with many many selections in all price ranges, and desserts also great and many choices.
Don't miss it!!!!!!!
They have several restaurants all over the country but this is by no means your typical "CHAIN!)
From the moment you enter, the staff is warm, friendly, attentive and extremely knowledgable..
The decor is rich & elegant, with dark woods, trendy lounge & bar area (where you will need to (happily) wait for a drink or eat at the bar if you do not have a reservation!)
The dining room is beautiful with a huge wine wall behind glass and lovely table settings all around the open kitchen.
(There is also a small room which accomodates 30 for a private party)**
The menu is HUGE! From fabulous appetizers including the enormous & incredibly delicious seafood tower with some of the freshest oysters I have ever eaten! Served with several dipping sauces including a wonderful tangy mustard sauce, whole lobsters, jumbo shrimp, fresh lump crabmeat & of course, oysters- FANTASTIC!
The entrees include many carnivores porterhouse, filet mignon, bone in sirloin, delmonicos (both plain grilled & porcini rubbed) and huge double cut lamb chops are among the favorite dream items- mouth watering! (all cooked to perfection I might add)
The fish selections also wonderful, especially the jumbo stuffed shrimp with not only crabmeat but LOBSTER! YUM!
Sides include not just the usual steak house fare, but also many new delicious options such as the parmesan truffle fries, haricot verts w/ roasted shallots & cherry tomatoes, and more!
The Wine list is vast with many many selections in all price ranges, and desserts also great and many choices.
Don't miss it!!!!!!!
Thursday, September 27, 2012
JEWEL
Located in Melville, in an office building off the LIE exit 49 is Tom Schaudels newest & most sensational new restaurant. JEWEL. It truly is!
The decor is beyond amazing! Really Breathtaking! Huge floor to ceiling glass walls, an incredible wine wall behind glass as well . A large trendy cool bar, & the ceiling is filled with large golden glowing glass orbs suspended from the ceiling. A Very attentive staff and the menu is very vast- "This & That" are appetizers- all interesting & delicious, and entrees include lots of unique fish and meat dishes. For the fall season, the butternut squash lasagna & the short ribs are winners (as are all the items) The poached lobster risotto- mouth watering! OMG! Huge tender chunks of fresh lobster with wonderfully cooked risotto and fresh peas-The Ahi Tuna was as fresh & tender as could be and all the sides were amazing! Reservations a must!!!!!!!! Don't Miss it!
BTW-**If you are on a date with your significant other, make sure he goes to the men's room- an experience in itself! SURPRISE!!!!!! LOL
Hendricks Tavern- Roslyn- This was the original Old George Washington Manor- totally overhauled and done in rich woods - dark & sexy with a "happening" bar scene, booths and tables in two rooms and a top notch staff as well.
The menu is also vast- hearty steaks, organic free range whole baby chicken, chops, fish and lots of fun cool apps- The tempura olives are fantastic! WOW!
All the entrees were excellent and the mneu is also not just your basic "meat & potatoes"- it is creative & wonderful.
Reservations are required or you will be waiting a long tim for a seat at the very crowded bar! (not a bad thing)
The decor is beyond amazing! Really Breathtaking! Huge floor to ceiling glass walls, an incredible wine wall behind glass as well . A large trendy cool bar, & the ceiling is filled with large golden glowing glass orbs suspended from the ceiling. A Very attentive staff and the menu is very vast- "This & That" are appetizers- all interesting & delicious, and entrees include lots of unique fish and meat dishes. For the fall season, the butternut squash lasagna & the short ribs are winners (as are all the items) The poached lobster risotto- mouth watering! OMG! Huge tender chunks of fresh lobster with wonderfully cooked risotto and fresh peas-The Ahi Tuna was as fresh & tender as could be and all the sides were amazing! Reservations a must!!!!!!!! Don't Miss it!
BTW-**If you are on a date with your significant other, make sure he goes to the men's room- an experience in itself! SURPRISE!!!!!! LOL
Hendricks Tavern- Roslyn- This was the original Old George Washington Manor- totally overhauled and done in rich woods - dark & sexy with a "happening" bar scene, booths and tables in two rooms and a top notch staff as well.
The menu is also vast- hearty steaks, organic free range whole baby chicken, chops, fish and lots of fun cool apps- The tempura olives are fantastic! WOW!
All the entrees were excellent and the mneu is also not just your basic "meat & potatoes"- it is creative & wonderful.
Reservations are required or you will be waiting a long tim for a seat at the very crowded bar! (not a bad thing)
The Fall Season
Two fabulous fantastic places to blog! Jewel The newest latest & greatest addition to Tom Schaudel 's repetoire- a "Jewel" on the North Shore (Huntington)
& then Hendricks Tavern in Roslyn- the amazing newest addition to the Poll brothers (of famed Bryant & Cooper, Cippolini, Toku, Bar Frites, etc.)
Stay Tuned!
*********
& then Hendricks Tavern in Roslyn- the amazing newest addition to the Poll brothers (of famed Bryant & Cooper, Cippolini, Toku, Bar Frites, etc.)
Stay Tuned!
*********
Monday, August 6, 2012
Stone Creek Inn- Quogue/ Hamptons
Nestled in the quiet little Hamlet known as East Quogue is a lovely elegant home with a superb french style dining experience serving dinner six nights a week.
With a large bar, two dining rooms- one with old world charm that seats approx 45, and the other, a bit more contemporary with large long tables, tall windows and outstanding service, this restaurant is a not to be missed for any special occasion, a romantic dinner for two, or a wonderful dinner with good friends.
Last night, one of the many unique appetizer specials were a chilled heirloom tomato gazpacho with fresh jumbo lump crabmeat, Hudson valley duck fois gras with grilled peaches, lightly tempura fried style large zucchini blossoms, served with melted straciatella cheese & mini roasted peppers, a watermelon salad with feta cheese and sungold tomatoes pistachios, basil and olives , duck meatballs, a yellow fin tuna tartare topped with tobiko (wasabi) caviar, and a risotto dish with sweet corn, shrimp & lobster . YUM!!!
Entrees included a beyond fresh moist Halibut served with summer succotash and lobster mashed potatoes, and roasted cherry tomatoes and grilled berkshire pork loin, a grilled Hills Farm skirt steak an Irish Organic Salmon with asparagus, exotic spring mushrooms and fingerling potatoes with truffles, and Grilled Yellowfin Tuna served with sweet white peppers and a smoked paprika confit and an olive tapenade, among many others.
Desserts are equally excellent- a caramel and fleur de sel Ice cream, a molten chocolate cake with Tahitian vanilla ice cream, a tasting of french chocolates, a cheese plate (choice of 3 or 5) with fig jam, and a banana sundae with marscapone mousse, and a Dulche De leche meringue.
A fabulous dining experience & reservations are a mUST!
With a large bar, two dining rooms- one with old world charm that seats approx 45, and the other, a bit more contemporary with large long tables, tall windows and outstanding service, this restaurant is a not to be missed for any special occasion, a romantic dinner for two, or a wonderful dinner with good friends.
Last night, one of the many unique appetizer specials were a chilled heirloom tomato gazpacho with fresh jumbo lump crabmeat, Hudson valley duck fois gras with grilled peaches, lightly tempura fried style large zucchini blossoms, served with melted straciatella cheese & mini roasted peppers, a watermelon salad with feta cheese and sungold tomatoes pistachios, basil and olives , duck meatballs, a yellow fin tuna tartare topped with tobiko (wasabi) caviar, and a risotto dish with sweet corn, shrimp & lobster . YUM!!!
Entrees included a beyond fresh moist Halibut served with summer succotash and lobster mashed potatoes, and roasted cherry tomatoes and grilled berkshire pork loin, a grilled Hills Farm skirt steak an Irish Organic Salmon with asparagus, exotic spring mushrooms and fingerling potatoes with truffles, and Grilled Yellowfin Tuna served with sweet white peppers and a smoked paprika confit and an olive tapenade, among many others.
Desserts are equally excellent- a caramel and fleur de sel Ice cream, a molten chocolate cake with Tahitian vanilla ice cream, a tasting of french chocolates, a cheese plate (choice of 3 or 5) with fig jam, and a banana sundae with marscapone mousse, and a Dulche De leche meringue.
A fabulous dining experience & reservations are a mUST!
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Comments
For the past two years since I started this blog "officially" I only have about a dozen actual
" members"
However, I receive over 1000 e mails each week from many of you- my readers who e mail me at my gmail blog account
Why don't you join? I would love your actual feedback on the particular place I am reviewing! Last week I receieved over 1300 comments on three of the venues I reviewed.
I wish you would join- it free & easy to do & so much easier to comment!
Just a suggestion!
" members"
However, I receive over 1000 e mails each week from many of you- my readers who e mail me at my gmail blog account
Why don't you join? I would love your actual feedback on the particular place I am reviewing! Last week I receieved over 1300 comments on three of the venues I reviewed.
I wish you would join- it free & easy to do & so much easier to comment!
Just a suggestion!
Trattoria L'inconctro
Located on 21-76 31st st in ASTORIA, Queens is a fabulous Italian restaurant. I love this place. A large venue with two rooms- one very large & one off to the side usually used for families with small children & private parties as well.
The decor is ITALY- high ceilings, great paintings tile & terracotta. While the menu is huge with so many choices, I always prefer to go with the nightly specials. What always amazes me is when they can recite all the specials without notes as there are many!
Chef Rocco offers many items- Appetizers on this particular evening were about 15- including burrata- a soft creamy buttery home made mozzarella, grilled octopus, stuffed zucchini blossoms (one of my favorites & a short season) a special salad with large black mission figs, chards of (large wide strips) of parmesean reggiano (the king of cheeses) thin large slices of mortadella and a balsamic drizzle, and so much more! Pastas- incredible. These offer so many, including paparadelle with rabbit, tubetini, black linguine and so much more- We chose the homemade fettuccini with sundried zucchini and a sausage ragu- outstanding. Among the many specials for entrees were a berkshire pork chop, a grilled on the bone veal chop with cremeni mushrooms,, veal or chicken paillard, short ribs, osso bucco, rack of veal, whole branzino and dover sole. To my MANY comments over the years, I did NOT have the Branzino! I had the dover sole, which was served magnificently, with the spine (bones) standing up like a fan on top of the beautiful filets of fish- accompanied by broccoli rabe wonderful!
My husband has the rack of veal- 4 large thick perfectly medium rare chops, served with haricot verts and roasted potatoes.
Too full for dessert- but they sent over as a lovely gesture their homemade "semi freddo" a chilled panna cotta with a warm rich lush zabiolione - OMG!
They are closed on Mondays and I do recommend a reservation on the weekends , although they are busy all the time!
A must go!
The decor is ITALY- high ceilings, great paintings tile & terracotta. While the menu is huge with so many choices, I always prefer to go with the nightly specials. What always amazes me is when they can recite all the specials without notes as there are many!
Chef Rocco offers many items- Appetizers on this particular evening were about 15- including burrata- a soft creamy buttery home made mozzarella, grilled octopus, stuffed zucchini blossoms (one of my favorites & a short season) a special salad with large black mission figs, chards of (large wide strips) of parmesean reggiano (the king of cheeses) thin large slices of mortadella and a balsamic drizzle, and so much more! Pastas- incredible. These offer so many, including paparadelle with rabbit, tubetini, black linguine and so much more- We chose the homemade fettuccini with sundried zucchini and a sausage ragu- outstanding. Among the many specials for entrees were a berkshire pork chop, a grilled on the bone veal chop with cremeni mushrooms,, veal or chicken paillard, short ribs, osso bucco, rack of veal, whole branzino and dover sole. To my MANY comments over the years, I did NOT have the Branzino! I had the dover sole, which was served magnificently, with the spine (bones) standing up like a fan on top of the beautiful filets of fish- accompanied by broccoli rabe wonderful!
My husband has the rack of veal- 4 large thick perfectly medium rare chops, served with haricot verts and roasted potatoes.
Too full for dessert- but they sent over as a lovely gesture their homemade "semi freddo" a chilled panna cotta with a warm rich lush zabiolione - OMG!
They are closed on Mondays and I do recommend a reservation on the weekends , although they are busy all the time!
A must go!
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Chef Vola's - Atlantic City
Located in a private house -off the beat & path in the heart of Atlantic CIty, (in between Caesars & the Tropicana) is a little place known to many who are willing to wait 2-4 months for a reservation is a secret little joint known at Chef Volas.
After years of hearing about this place, I have attempted to dine there numerous times but to no avail. It is a small place- approx 50 seats. Then finally I was able to get a reservation this past weekend at 9PM. It was great.
While there is an outdoor porch area with tables during the summer months, but the rest of the restaurant is downstairs in the basement of the house. No frills decor- white plastic tablecloths, basic wood chairs, so ambiance aside- it is good food- large portions of good old fashioned homemade Italian fare- all delicious,
The house salad for one is enough for three, served (the only way I feel salad should be) on a chilled plate , dressed perfectly. The crabcakes are sensational. This evening it was also offered with shrimp francese on top as an appetizer or main course.
The pastas are plentiful, including a sampler served in a trio sectioned dish of one type of pasta- three sauces of your choice. Their signature dish is the bone in pounded veal parm- enormous, pounded, lightly breaded & fried & fork tender . The linguine in white clam sauce was very good- incredibly tender clams! The specials were vast, including a wonderful veal sorrentino, with chopped proscuitto and alot of cheese .
Their ricotta cheesecakes are amazing- seven or eight different kinds, from creme brulee to raspberry, and the most simple- plain- served warm with fresh whipped cream & really fantastic!
*BYOB- This place (and many others down in Jersey) are a bring your own wine, which they happily uncork for you at NO charge. Everyone seemed to know as every single table had lots of bottles of wine!
*No credit cards . SO, if you know you are heading or planning a trip down there, call ahead & make a reservation!
After years of hearing about this place, I have attempted to dine there numerous times but to no avail. It is a small place- approx 50 seats. Then finally I was able to get a reservation this past weekend at 9PM. It was great.
While there is an outdoor porch area with tables during the summer months, but the rest of the restaurant is downstairs in the basement of the house. No frills decor- white plastic tablecloths, basic wood chairs, so ambiance aside- it is good food- large portions of good old fashioned homemade Italian fare- all delicious,
The house salad for one is enough for three, served (the only way I feel salad should be) on a chilled plate , dressed perfectly. The crabcakes are sensational. This evening it was also offered with shrimp francese on top as an appetizer or main course.
The pastas are plentiful, including a sampler served in a trio sectioned dish of one type of pasta- three sauces of your choice. Their signature dish is the bone in pounded veal parm- enormous, pounded, lightly breaded & fried & fork tender . The linguine in white clam sauce was very good- incredibly tender clams! The specials were vast, including a wonderful veal sorrentino, with chopped proscuitto and alot of cheese .
Their ricotta cheesecakes are amazing- seven or eight different kinds, from creme brulee to raspberry, and the most simple- plain- served warm with fresh whipped cream & really fantastic!
*BYOB- This place (and many others down in Jersey) are a bring your own wine, which they happily uncork for you at NO charge. Everyone seemed to know as every single table had lots of bottles of wine!
*No credit cards . SO, if you know you are heading or planning a trip down there, call ahead & make a reservation!
Annette's
Located in Atlantic City, just over the little bridge into Ventnor City on Dorset is a cute little beach side breakfast place called Annette's. While not walking distance from any of the casino's this place is worth the car ride if you are in the area. The staff is friendly and the owner is always smoozing and greeting the regulars & newcomers alike. Its not a large plcace, so be prepared to wait a little while on the weekends- but NOT long-( 10-15 minutes tops- & well worth it.)
Their smoked fish platters are fabulous- nova, moist baked salmon, white fish, etc. all served with delicious large slices of ripe tomatoes, huge slices of onion, cucumbers & olives served with large bagels & cream cheese , of course, If you like omelettes, they have a gigantic selection, as well as several daily specials, great french toast, eggs of all kinds, and so much more- all so reasonably priced - you cant go wrong! A fun place for breakfast & actually lunch too- their homemade turkey burgers are also GREAT!
Their smoked fish platters are fabulous- nova, moist baked salmon, white fish, etc. all served with delicious large slices of ripe tomatoes, huge slices of onion, cucumbers & olives served with large bagels & cream cheese , of course, If you like omelettes, they have a gigantic selection, as well as several daily specials, great french toast, eggs of all kinds, and so much more- all so reasonably priced - you cant go wrong! A fun place for breakfast & actually lunch too- their homemade turkey burgers are also GREAT!
Atlantic City
Well, as I have mentioned numerous times before, there is lots of great dining in Ac.
As I just returned from a stay at the Water Club (Borgata's other hotel) which has lots of fabulous dining, including one of my favorites- Michael Mina's Seablue & Bobby Flay's Place for Steak, among several others.
Bobby Flays offers fabulous steaks & enormous lobsters (of course there are fish & chicken selections) but their featured item are the steaks.
Cooked to perfection, offered with a rub of his special sauce or not, and lots of great sides, including smashed baked potato with goat cheese & scallions, a sweet potato gratin, creamed spinach, wild mushrooms & cippolinni onions and more!
As I just returned from a stay at the Water Club (Borgata's other hotel) which has lots of fabulous dining, including one of my favorites- Michael Mina's Seablue & Bobby Flay's Place for Steak, among several others.
Bobby Flays offers fabulous steaks & enormous lobsters (of course there are fish & chicken selections) but their featured item are the steaks.
Cooked to perfection, offered with a rub of his special sauce or not, and lots of great sides, including smashed baked potato with goat cheese & scallions, a sweet potato gratin, creamed spinach, wild mushrooms & cippolinni onions and more!
Sunday, July 15, 2012
LBI- Long Beach Island- Jersey Shore
Just returned from LBI- some great dining in Surf City & surrounding areas.
LOn g Beach Island is a great summer community with several areas off the coast of Ocean County- NJ.
Among the very best- Yellowfin & Cafe Alletta.
Yellowfin is casual yet very pretty tablecloth dining establishment serving "foodie" locals & tourists alike the freshest seafood around! The appetizers are fabulous, including asia n dumplings with a savory dipping sauce , an incredible duck & shitake mushroom spring roll &a tuna tartar served with guacamole pea shoots on a crispy wonton shell- YUM!
Entree are also excellent, with the likes tuna, cod, salmon, crab and so much more! Its BYOB as all the places dow there- they happily uncork & decanter your wine at no charge. Its a bit noisy but a fun place- reservations recommended.
Cafe Aletta- A very lovely dining experience- a friendly trendy restaurant with great ambiance- tables both outside & in the dining room- not as noisy as Yellowfin as its a bit larger, with a very friendly staff of very knowledgable waiters- all more than happy to serve your every whim. Again, BYOB- they will decanter it for you, (reds of course) ice your champagne or white wines.
The menu is large but I highly recommend ordering form their many specials.
Their appetizers, again are many but their specials of the evening are the way to go.
The house antipasto was wonderful with selections of meats & cheese, artichokes, olives, white anchovies, roasted peppers, etc.. Also equally incredible were the giant stuffed clams- chopped cherrystones mixed with panko seasoned breadcrumbs & a touch of burrata cheese- soft warm homemade mozzarella & then baked to perfection- just spectacular!
Last night, they offered so many choices, including an enormous lobster tail, pulled almost entirely out of its shell but served sitting high on top of its shell and quite a presentation!
The Enormous bone in veal parm was outstanding- tender (no knife required) & lightly fried & served with a generous topping of fresh mozz & a great tomato sauce over linguine- Amazing! The shrimp francaise over spinach & the shrimp parmigiana were also excellent, as was the spicy seafood fra diablo- a large portion of shrimp, lobster, callamari scallops, etc-wow!
Every dish that went by looked better than the next!
Desserts are also great- from tiramisu to espresso or chocolate gelato to mango sorbet with a touch of cream, to gigantic slices of triple chocolate cake & cheesecake! Reservations highly recommended- especially on weekends as this is a resort town ! A MUST GO!
LOn g Beach Island is a great summer community with several areas off the coast of Ocean County- NJ.
Among the very best- Yellowfin & Cafe Alletta.
Yellowfin is casual yet very pretty tablecloth dining establishment serving "foodie" locals & tourists alike the freshest seafood around! The appetizers are fabulous, including asia n dumplings with a savory dipping sauce , an incredible duck & shitake mushroom spring roll &a tuna tartar served with guacamole pea shoots on a crispy wonton shell- YUM!
Entree are also excellent, with the likes tuna, cod, salmon, crab and so much more! Its BYOB as all the places dow there- they happily uncork & decanter your wine at no charge. Its a bit noisy but a fun place- reservations recommended.
Cafe Aletta- A very lovely dining experience- a friendly trendy restaurant with great ambiance- tables both outside & in the dining room- not as noisy as Yellowfin as its a bit larger, with a very friendly staff of very knowledgable waiters- all more than happy to serve your every whim. Again, BYOB- they will decanter it for you, (reds of course) ice your champagne or white wines.
The menu is large but I highly recommend ordering form their many specials.
Their appetizers, again are many but their specials of the evening are the way to go.
The house antipasto was wonderful with selections of meats & cheese, artichokes, olives, white anchovies, roasted peppers, etc.. Also equally incredible were the giant stuffed clams- chopped cherrystones mixed with panko seasoned breadcrumbs & a touch of burrata cheese- soft warm homemade mozzarella & then baked to perfection- just spectacular!
Last night, they offered so many choices, including an enormous lobster tail, pulled almost entirely out of its shell but served sitting high on top of its shell and quite a presentation!
The Enormous bone in veal parm was outstanding- tender (no knife required) & lightly fried & served with a generous topping of fresh mozz & a great tomato sauce over linguine- Amazing! The shrimp francaise over spinach & the shrimp parmigiana were also excellent, as was the spicy seafood fra diablo- a large portion of shrimp, lobster, callamari scallops, etc-wow!
Every dish that went by looked better than the next!
Desserts are also great- from tiramisu to espresso or chocolate gelato to mango sorbet with a touch of cream, to gigantic slices of triple chocolate cake & cheesecake! Reservations highly recommended- especially on weekends as this is a resort town ! A MUST GO!
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
RED ROOSTER- HARLEM
Marcus Samuselsson, renowned Chef opened another fabulous & fun restaurant in Harlem several months ago. Red Rooster.
Located on Lenox Ave (between 125 & 126th St) in a bustling, richly historical neighborhood
bustling with local community & tourists alike, and among many trendy new dining places all along the way mixed din the established places like the Famed Sylvia's , is this COOL place.
he decor is great- A large hopping bar with fabulous art all over the walls from the neighborhood & historical pieces as well , live music, outdoor seating in season and a fairly large dining room- a loud, fun vibe & a great mix of people. The staff is friendly & fun as well.
The menu includes some very interesting selections so we decided to try the Dirty Rice& shrimp, with toasted almonds, the Crab Cakes with a little "kick" and a delicious 5 Spice Duck Salad to begin.
I has the Fried Yardbird for my entree- 2 large dark meat pieces, very lightly fried in a buttermilk marinade with bread & butter pickles & served over creamy mashed potatoes. My husband has the grilled pork loin- a n enormously huge chop served with a spring mushroom ragu- sensational! One of our friends has the famed "Helga's Meatballs" served with lingonberries & a cabbage slaw. ALl was delicious!
As a side, we ordered the "Mac & Greens" A nice portion of mac & cheese made with a mild Gouda, so not heavy or dense served with collard greens & really wonderful.
Desserts - many- we opted for the Hazelnut & Chocolate Truffles- dense rich & one per person & the "cookies plate" a nice light trio of thee types of homemade baked cookies- - all wonderful.
Difficult to get a reservation, but worth the wait & a fun place with live music on a warm summer night! We left at 11PM on a Tuesday & it looked like a Saturday night at 8:00! Crowded busy streets with lots of people dining, drinking, dancing or just walking around and having a great time!
Located on Lenox Ave (between 125 & 126th St) in a bustling, richly historical neighborhood
bustling with local community & tourists alike, and among many trendy new dining places all along the way mixed din the established places like the Famed Sylvia's , is this COOL place.
he decor is great- A large hopping bar with fabulous art all over the walls from the neighborhood & historical pieces as well , live music, outdoor seating in season and a fairly large dining room- a loud, fun vibe & a great mix of people. The staff is friendly & fun as well.
The menu includes some very interesting selections so we decided to try the Dirty Rice& shrimp, with toasted almonds, the Crab Cakes with a little "kick" and a delicious 5 Spice Duck Salad to begin.
I has the Fried Yardbird for my entree- 2 large dark meat pieces, very lightly fried in a buttermilk marinade with bread & butter pickles & served over creamy mashed potatoes. My husband has the grilled pork loin- a n enormously huge chop served with a spring mushroom ragu- sensational! One of our friends has the famed "Helga's Meatballs" served with lingonberries & a cabbage slaw. ALl was delicious!
As a side, we ordered the "Mac & Greens" A nice portion of mac & cheese made with a mild Gouda, so not heavy or dense served with collard greens & really wonderful.
Desserts - many- we opted for the Hazelnut & Chocolate Truffles- dense rich & one per person & the "cookies plate" a nice light trio of thee types of homemade baked cookies- - all wonderful.
Difficult to get a reservation, but worth the wait & a fun place with live music on a warm summer night! We left at 11PM on a Tuesday & it looked like a Saturday night at 8:00! Crowded busy streets with lots of people dining, drinking, dancing or just walking around and having a great time!
Sunday, July 8, 2012
SPADARO- New Rochelle
I have posted about this fabulous little "secret" many many times but it needs mentioning once again, as last night was another incredible dining experience.
A thirteen table Authentic 36 seat Italian restaurant located on Main Street in New Rochelle is the closest one get get without traveling to Italy.
NO MENU. Your host Rena greets all her guests as if they were family. Her husband is the chef, creating a new menu each evening.
Last night, instead of getting our "usual" - the Spadaro famous almost endless 17 dish antipasti, we opted for three of her 8 nightly appetizer specials- first, instead of the grilled octopus, which we normally also get, we had the eggplant- Baked- not fried- no breading - just large perfectly cooked slices bathing in the best sauce you will ever taste and topped w/ some shaved parmesean- wonderful when paired with the crusty tuscan large slices of bread you are given when you first arrive with a huge clove of fresh garlic speared with a toothpick so you can rub it on your bread-
next- the arugula salad- enough t for 4 but for two, with huge enormous chunks & slices of AGED Parmesan Reggiano- the undisputed king of cheese, sweet cherry tomatoes & perfectly dressed in EVOO & served with a balsamic think syrup on the side if you so desire. OMG!
Then, we had the steamed artichoke so tender, in lemon & olive oil.
Next- YES !!! there is more! We had one of her 8 homemade pastas- She always offers many choices- from Paparadelle w/ wild boar ragu, to black linguine with shrimp, to rigatoni bolognese and more etc. but last night she suggested the FARRO- not a whole wheat pasta although it resembles it, but a NON white whole grain organic penne like pasta, al dente with proscuitto, peas, and fresh clams in a light fresh tomato sauce.
I was done but my husband was not! He then ordered her homemade sausage & a fork tender veal chop, sliced & served with broccoli rabe.
Needless to say, we took home ALOT of leftovers! (we needed room for the best italian cheesecake in the world!)
Do call for a reservation- ask for Rena & tell her Ila sent you! (hard to get a table there as all her "regulars" come all the time! )
PS- *Go with at least a party of 4 or 6- as two people can not possibly finish this incredible meal-
Unless you like leftovers!
A thirteen table Authentic 36 seat Italian restaurant located on Main Street in New Rochelle is the closest one get get without traveling to Italy.
NO MENU. Your host Rena greets all her guests as if they were family. Her husband is the chef, creating a new menu each evening.
Last night, instead of getting our "usual" - the Spadaro famous almost endless 17 dish antipasti, we opted for three of her 8 nightly appetizer specials- first, instead of the grilled octopus, which we normally also get, we had the eggplant- Baked- not fried- no breading - just large perfectly cooked slices bathing in the best sauce you will ever taste and topped w/ some shaved parmesean- wonderful when paired with the crusty tuscan large slices of bread you are given when you first arrive with a huge clove of fresh garlic speared with a toothpick so you can rub it on your bread-
next- the arugula salad- enough t for 4 but for two, with huge enormous chunks & slices of AGED Parmesan Reggiano- the undisputed king of cheese, sweet cherry tomatoes & perfectly dressed in EVOO & served with a balsamic think syrup on the side if you so desire. OMG!
Then, we had the steamed artichoke so tender, in lemon & olive oil.
Next- YES !!! there is more! We had one of her 8 homemade pastas- She always offers many choices- from Paparadelle w/ wild boar ragu, to black linguine with shrimp, to rigatoni bolognese and more etc. but last night she suggested the FARRO- not a whole wheat pasta although it resembles it, but a NON white whole grain organic penne like pasta, al dente with proscuitto, peas, and fresh clams in a light fresh tomato sauce.
I was done but my husband was not! He then ordered her homemade sausage & a fork tender veal chop, sliced & served with broccoli rabe.
Needless to say, we took home ALOT of leftovers! (we needed room for the best italian cheesecake in the world!)
Do call for a reservation- ask for Rena & tell her Ila sent you! (hard to get a table there as all her "regulars" come all the time! )
PS- *Go with at least a party of 4 or 6- as two people can not possibly finish this incredible meal-
Unless you like leftovers!
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Le Soir
Located on Montauk Highway in Bayport, Long Island is a quaint lovely French Bistro called Le Soir.
It is French Cuisine with a charming atmosphere, a very warm & friendly staff and a wonderful menu including several specials.
They also include soup & salad with your dinner, ( two soup choices)
Last night a refreshing cold cucumber soup and a hot vegetable puree soup. Both were wonderfully delicious! The cucumber soup has a yogurt base with small pieces of cucumber and was so flavorful, as was the vegetable puree with pea & carrot layers of flavor- excellent!
The Salad was crisp & served on chilled plates, which I happen to adore & feel ALL salads should be served, was lightly & perfectly dressed.
Appetizers are many, including pate, escargots in a lovely rich parsley & garlic butter- served out of the shell, crab cakes, duck confit, and more.
We ordered two of the entree specials, even though their regular menu is enticing as well.
The veal scalloppini with a rich mushroom truffle sauce was fabulous- three large tender thin pieces of pounded veal medallions and served with potatoes au gratin & haricot verts.
I also ordered a side of fresh asparagus with a rich hollandaise. The other entree was the wild striped bass- also very good with roasted beets, fennel and a potato puree.
It was difficult to decide as many of the 'specials' sounded so good- the lamb chops , lobster out of the shell in a lemon beurre blanc and filet mignon torenado also looked wonderful as it passed by to be served to other diners.
The desserts are all homemade and the blueberry deep dish custard pie had a bread pudding like base & was fluffy and light, yet still rich served with fresh whipped cream and just incredible!
Also available was a mixed berry tarte, baked on a thin layer of puff pastry, an apricot torte with a nut crust , and of course, chocolate mousse, among others.
Reservations are recommended.
It is French Cuisine with a charming atmosphere, a very warm & friendly staff and a wonderful menu including several specials.
They also include soup & salad with your dinner, ( two soup choices)
Last night a refreshing cold cucumber soup and a hot vegetable puree soup. Both were wonderfully delicious! The cucumber soup has a yogurt base with small pieces of cucumber and was so flavorful, as was the vegetable puree with pea & carrot layers of flavor- excellent!
The Salad was crisp & served on chilled plates, which I happen to adore & feel ALL salads should be served, was lightly & perfectly dressed.
Appetizers are many, including pate, escargots in a lovely rich parsley & garlic butter- served out of the shell, crab cakes, duck confit, and more.
We ordered two of the entree specials, even though their regular menu is enticing as well.
The veal scalloppini with a rich mushroom truffle sauce was fabulous- three large tender thin pieces of pounded veal medallions and served with potatoes au gratin & haricot verts.
I also ordered a side of fresh asparagus with a rich hollandaise. The other entree was the wild striped bass- also very good with roasted beets, fennel and a potato puree.
It was difficult to decide as many of the 'specials' sounded so good- the lamb chops , lobster out of the shell in a lemon beurre blanc and filet mignon torenado also looked wonderful as it passed by to be served to other diners.
The desserts are all homemade and the blueberry deep dish custard pie had a bread pudding like base & was fluffy and light, yet still rich served with fresh whipped cream and just incredible!
Also available was a mixed berry tarte, baked on a thin layer of puff pastry, an apricot torte with a nut crust , and of course, chocolate mousse, among others.
Reservations are recommended.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Sugo
While I have posted several times over the past couple of years about SUGO, it needs mentioning again.
Located on Park Ave in Long Beach, Sugo is a fun spot with a creative edge of an ever changing , very eclectic menu.
During my last dining experience I had zucchini flowers stuffed with crabmeat, (one of my all time favorites but so hard to find & a short lived season) a fabulous Asian spring roll with a sweet & sour dipping sauce and and so much more!
While his original menu remains constant from the time they opened (as many people still love & want his yummy chicken meatballs, baby back ribs, fantastic parmesan crusted chicken served on a huge bed of cappellini, or his pizzas with great toppings Not to mention his famous "GSR" burger! ("Grandmas Special Recipe" ) YUM!
I personally always go for the "clip board specials", inspired
in part by Alan, the owner and always on the move host, the menu is unique.
They are always unusual & delicious, In the winter months, I adore his short ribs served with chunks of carmelized butternut squash, or his rib eye with sauteed spinach, and great soups, but in the summer months, he offers many more seafood choices, including one this week-a dish large scallops, crusted with avocado & japanese panko crumbs & served with three large delicious seafood ravioli. The jerk chicken is wonderful & moist, mostly dark meat & super flavorful!
You never know what you will find on the special menu, which is always fun if you are a "foodie" and crave something special & different. its a really fun atmosphere, great food, a very nice bar with two large plasma TV's and lots of interesting martinis and decor for sure!
Located on Park Ave in Long Beach, Sugo is a fun spot with a creative edge of an ever changing , very eclectic menu.
During my last dining experience I had zucchini flowers stuffed with crabmeat, (one of my all time favorites but so hard to find & a short lived season) a fabulous Asian spring roll with a sweet & sour dipping sauce and and so much more!
While his original menu remains constant from the time they opened (as many people still love & want his yummy chicken meatballs, baby back ribs, fantastic parmesan crusted chicken served on a huge bed of cappellini, or his pizzas with great toppings Not to mention his famous "GSR" burger! ("Grandmas Special Recipe" ) YUM!
I personally always go for the "clip board specials", inspired
in part by Alan, the owner and always on the move host, the menu is unique.
They are always unusual & delicious, In the winter months, I adore his short ribs served with chunks of carmelized butternut squash, or his rib eye with sauteed spinach, and great soups, but in the summer months, he offers many more seafood choices, including one this week-a dish large scallops, crusted with avocado & japanese panko crumbs & served with three large delicious seafood ravioli. The jerk chicken is wonderful & moist, mostly dark meat & super flavorful!
You never know what you will find on the special menu, which is always fun if you are a "foodie" and crave something special & different. its a really fun atmosphere, great food, a very nice bar with two large plasma TV's and lots of interesting martinis and decor for sure!
Don Juan- Long Beach
The must anticipated Mexican Restaurant Don Juan opening this week in Long Beach. on Park Ave.
A large very lovely decorated place with mexican hats on the walls, posters & fun large comfy banquets for 2 or 4 & lots of tables & a great bar.
The place was Jamming!!!!!!!!!! Not an empty table, and from what I was told by the manager, its been like that since they opened last Thursday- every table was taken.
Not a bad wait however, about 20 minutes. The menu is HUGE! A large long two sided menu filled with authentic mexican fare, including a very nice guacamole of course- not table side but equally good,and always a great thing to order when you first sit as they give you a large warm basket of tortilla chips & a spicy salsa when you are seated.
Apps- too many to mention them all , but there are quesadillas, nachos, flautas, empanadas, tacos, etc. and then sampler platters as well.
The entrees are also authentic fare ranging from combo platters with your choices of three of the following: tacos ( meat, chicken, or veggie,) burritos, enchilladas, chimichangas, and more , all served with rice & refried beans. There are steaks, shrimp, chicken and many vegetarian dishes as well.
You can also ordered black beans as a side for a few dollars more, which is my preference. The fajitas come with a generous side of rice, beans and sour cream, and the portions are plentiful.
A fun place that will most definitely will attract a young beach going crowd in the summer months with their bar serving icy cold margaritas, great martinis, many types of beers, and of course, mixed drinks & wine. Prices are extremely reasonable !
A new fun dining spot in Long Beach is always welcome!
A large very lovely decorated place with mexican hats on the walls, posters & fun large comfy banquets for 2 or 4 & lots of tables & a great bar.
The place was Jamming!!!!!!!!!! Not an empty table, and from what I was told by the manager, its been like that since they opened last Thursday- every table was taken.
Not a bad wait however, about 20 minutes. The menu is HUGE! A large long two sided menu filled with authentic mexican fare, including a very nice guacamole of course- not table side but equally good,and always a great thing to order when you first sit as they give you a large warm basket of tortilla chips & a spicy salsa when you are seated.
Apps- too many to mention them all , but there are quesadillas, nachos, flautas, empanadas, tacos, etc. and then sampler platters as well.
The entrees are also authentic fare ranging from combo platters with your choices of three of the following: tacos ( meat, chicken, or veggie,) burritos, enchilladas, chimichangas, and more , all served with rice & refried beans. There are steaks, shrimp, chicken and many vegetarian dishes as well.
You can also ordered black beans as a side for a few dollars more, which is my preference. The fajitas come with a generous side of rice, beans and sour cream, and the portions are plentiful.
A fun place that will most definitely will attract a young beach going crowd in the summer months with their bar serving icy cold margaritas, great martinis, many types of beers, and of course, mixed drinks & wine. Prices are extremely reasonable !
A new fun dining spot in Long Beach is always welcome!
Summer Dining "Al Fresco"
There are many spots to dine outdoors during the summer months- several on the water, which are my favorite spots.
Two imparticular - one on the south shore & one on the north shore & since I was recently at both this week, I thought it was worth mentioning.
In Bayville, Walls Wharf. This is a little place located about 100 yards past Crescent Beach CLub & Catering Hall. It has tables both on the deck & directly on the beach. A great place to view the sunset! While not "gourmet" fare, it is good food- very fresh seafood, fun apps of raw or baked clams and oysters, a goat cheese & lobster pizzette, etc and a great view & fun spot to have lunch or dinner outdoors.
Next, is the Parkside Cafe, located in Seaford- A tricky spot to find as it sort of hidden away in a residential neighborhood, but you can google it. It has a lovely dining room but my favorite is the outdoor deck, overlooking the water & watching all the boats go by. There is a nice little sitting area with a small firepit as you have drinks & wait for your table. The menu is really nice- they always have interesting specials, great apps including a hot & spicy screaming shrimp on brushcetta, three types of calamari, and fabulous crab cakes- no filler- all lump crabmeat- and more- GREAT!
Dinner entrees are really varied, with steaks, fish & chicken, and of course, lots of seafood specials & a few really nice pasta dishes .
Usually we are too full for dessert, but they have a lovely menu for that as well.
Worth the ride!
Two imparticular - one on the south shore & one on the north shore & since I was recently at both this week, I thought it was worth mentioning.
In Bayville, Walls Wharf. This is a little place located about 100 yards past Crescent Beach CLub & Catering Hall. It has tables both on the deck & directly on the beach. A great place to view the sunset! While not "gourmet" fare, it is good food- very fresh seafood, fun apps of raw or baked clams and oysters, a goat cheese & lobster pizzette, etc and a great view & fun spot to have lunch or dinner outdoors.
Next, is the Parkside Cafe, located in Seaford- A tricky spot to find as it sort of hidden away in a residential neighborhood, but you can google it. It has a lovely dining room but my favorite is the outdoor deck, overlooking the water & watching all the boats go by. There is a nice little sitting area with a small firepit as you have drinks & wait for your table. The menu is really nice- they always have interesting specials, great apps including a hot & spicy screaming shrimp on brushcetta, three types of calamari, and fabulous crab cakes- no filler- all lump crabmeat- and more- GREAT!
Dinner entrees are really varied, with steaks, fish & chicken, and of course, lots of seafood specials & a few really nice pasta dishes .
Usually we are too full for dessert, but they have a lovely menu for that as well.
Worth the ride!
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Luigi Q's - Plainview/Hicksville
I have mentioned this fantastic Italian Restaurant before but my most recent dining experience there was just outstanding! If you allow Luigi to make you what he suggests that evening rather than order off his already great menu , you will enjoy an experience close to being in Italy! The baby stuffed eggplant appetizer was mouth watering, as was the homemade fettuccinni with shitake mushrooms, peas & a touch of truffle cream- OMG!
As always his fresh fish choices are a foodie's dream- fresh halibut, cod or branzino, and the veal chop is literally 4 " thick, the bone frenched and topped with gorganzola and served with crispy fresh haricot vertes (stringbeans) as are all the entrees- duck, baby organic chicken, rabbit (one of my all time favorites) served cacciatore style with paparadelle pasta- wow!
Located on South Oyster Bay Road (Corner of Woodbury rd) this is a food lovers dream!
As always his fresh fish choices are a foodie's dream- fresh halibut, cod or branzino, and the veal chop is literally 4 " thick, the bone frenched and topped with gorganzola and served with crispy fresh haricot vertes (stringbeans) as are all the entrees- duck, baby organic chicken, rabbit (one of my all time favorites) served cacciatore style with paparadelle pasta- wow!
Located on South Oyster Bay Road (Corner of Woodbury rd) this is a food lovers dream!
Addendum
Well, I returned once again to the NEW Portuguese Chicken Restaurant in Bellmore NY.
What I failed to mention in previous post was the outstanding service! Once again, all excellent. The staff is attentive, friendly, and keep bringing you the "included" sides.
The rule of thumb normally when a new restaurant opens is not to go right away as they need to get the "kinks" out- but in this case, they are running a fine oiled machine. The place runs as if it were open for years. The food, service, and atmosphere are great & we tried the Rodizio & the jumbo garlic shrimp this time , (In addition to their signature grilled chicken) and it was FABULOUS! The shrimp were huge, tender & a delicious garlic flavored shrimp with a bit of heat and of course, the Rodizio- the giant steel skewers that come around all evening offering you their many varieties of grilled meats was just incredibly great.
Word has already gotten around so the place was packed- even for a Tuesday evening- but not a long wait for a table and truly, and still, worth the wait if you have to!
What I failed to mention in previous post was the outstanding service! Once again, all excellent. The staff is attentive, friendly, and keep bringing you the "included" sides.
The rule of thumb normally when a new restaurant opens is not to go right away as they need to get the "kinks" out- but in this case, they are running a fine oiled machine. The place runs as if it were open for years. The food, service, and atmosphere are great & we tried the Rodizio & the jumbo garlic shrimp this time , (In addition to their signature grilled chicken) and it was FABULOUS! The shrimp were huge, tender & a delicious garlic flavored shrimp with a bit of heat and of course, the Rodizio- the giant steel skewers that come around all evening offering you their many varieties of grilled meats was just incredibly great.
Word has already gotten around so the place was packed- even for a Tuesday evening- but not a long wait for a table and truly, and still, worth the wait if you have to!
Monday, June 25, 2012
NEW!
Well, as I wind down my busy season & begin to enjoy my dining out, I have been to several excellent restaurants but the MOST exciting & newest was last night- The Porteguese Chicken place on Jericho Turnpike in Mineola has finally opened their second place on Sunrise Highway in Bellmore- Churrasqueira CARVALHOS- outstanding!
The menu is the same- fantastic Rodizio chicken- they offer the ALL you can EAT meats on giant steel skewers- an enormous selection of grilled to perfection meats, chicken legs, pork, ribs, sausage, and more, all carved tableside with a ridiculous amount of side dishes & salad. The dinner menu also includes fish selections, and of course, their famous whole grilled butterflied chicken, seasoned perfectly and a generous portion of side dishes as well including their salad, homemade potato chips, fries, steamed broccoli, carrots , sauteed collard greens, rice pilaf, etc. & I always also order as an 'extra' their black beans which are great!
We were a party of 8 and we were lucky enough to get in before the crowds began coming & for those of you who have been to their other location, be prepared to wait- but its WORTH IT! ONce word gets out (as they JUST opened this past Wednesday) The prices are so fair- For ex: last night, a party of 8 - we had salad, whole chickens with all the sides, an order of their delicious ribs, black beans, sodas, coffee, and their famous homemade amazing egg white & custard dessert , & the bill was $45 per couple for everything!
A MUST GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The menu is the same- fantastic Rodizio chicken- they offer the ALL you can EAT meats on giant steel skewers- an enormous selection of grilled to perfection meats, chicken legs, pork, ribs, sausage, and more, all carved tableside with a ridiculous amount of side dishes & salad. The dinner menu also includes fish selections, and of course, their famous whole grilled butterflied chicken, seasoned perfectly and a generous portion of side dishes as well including their salad, homemade potato chips, fries, steamed broccoli, carrots , sauteed collard greens, rice pilaf, etc. & I always also order as an 'extra' their black beans which are great!
We were a party of 8 and we were lucky enough to get in before the crowds began coming & for those of you who have been to their other location, be prepared to wait- but its WORTH IT! ONce word gets out (as they JUST opened this past Wednesday) The prices are so fair- For ex: last night, a party of 8 - we had salad, whole chickens with all the sides, an order of their delicious ribs, black beans, sodas, coffee, and their famous homemade amazing egg white & custard dessert , & the bill was $45 per couple for everything!
A MUST GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Hello ALl,
I am so sorry that I have not been keeping up as I am in my busy season with my other business- (I am an event planner) & other things going on in my life so, that said, I will be back!
I have lots of new places, including to begin with- La Bisteca- the chef & one of the former owners of Branzino in Lynbrook (see my older post) opened recently - Located on Rockaway Ave on the border of Valley Stream, a lovely continental restaurant with a wonderful menu, including lots of interesting & delicious specials!
I shall return! Sorry for all the unanswered gmails (637!) OMG! SO sorry!!!!!!
I am so sorry that I have not been keeping up as I am in my busy season with my other business- (I am an event planner) & other things going on in my life so, that said, I will be back!
I have lots of new places, including to begin with- La Bisteca- the chef & one of the former owners of Branzino in Lynbrook (see my older post) opened recently - Located on Rockaway Ave on the border of Valley Stream, a lovely continental restaurant with a wonderful menu, including lots of interesting & delicious specials!
I shall return! Sorry for all the unanswered gmails (637!) OMG! SO sorry!!!!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)