SOUL DADDY - Minneapolis (Mall of America)

Soul Daddy is a new restaurant owned by Jamawn Woods - winner of NBC's "America's Next Great Restaurant". Soul Daddy is a funky space of polished plywood tables, benches & booths, cement wall tiles, large chalkboard graffiti walls and an open kitchen gleaming with shiny stainless steel. Jamawn also has his signature purple on one wall and his staff's T-shirts. The staff is super fast and very friendly. Tonight, Jamawn was on premise meeting and greeting his diners and fans that followed him on the TV show.

The short menu offers "new home cookin'." Your choices include 5 meals and sandwiches, 8 side dishes, and either a whole wheat biscuit or corn bread waffle.

I ordered the baked herb chicken meal. This meal included a large juicy chicken breast with crispy skin (just the way it should be!), braised kale in a very light creamy sauce and sweet potato salad - perfectly cooked al dente & tossed in a bit of butter and a sprinkling of brown sugar. The accompanying whole wheat biscuit was a flaky, warm handful of heaven. The meal was scrumptious and an incredible value at $8.95. Almost too good to be true.

Soul Daddy creates 3 signature sauces: Sweet Molasses Mustard, Soul Daddy BBQ and Jamawn's Hot Sauce. My favorite pairings were the Soul Daddy BBQ sauce on the baked chicken and Jamawn's Hot Sauce on the kale.

This has become a new fast, casual favorite of mine!

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

$

++++

&&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

LITTLE GRETEL - Boerne TX

Little Gretel, a 20 minute drive from San Antonio, is located on River Road across from a park bordering the Guadalupe River - alive with ducks and geese. Their small patio garden has 12 tables surrounded by potted, climbing roses. Fran and I took a break during our day of shopping the "Texas Hill Country" and had an incredible lunch at the very charming Little Gretel. Their menu has been featuring German and Czech cuisine since 1983.

I chose the Jaeger Schnitzel with Hunter Sauce. The very generous plate of schnitzel and homemade spatzle drizzled with a deep, earthy mushroom sauce and a side homemade sauerkraut was more than enough for lunch. Scrumptious!

The sleek and sexy interior dining room is a wonderful surprise of celery green walls, shiny black tables, black chairs with celery green leather seats, 12-foot ceilings, an obligatory cuckoo clock and a stunning copper & crystal boat chandelier as the focal point of the room.

Our very friendly server only added to the perfect lunch under the Texas sun!

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

Little Gretel

$$

++++

&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

CAUSE SPIRITS & SOUND BAR - Minneapolis

Cause Spirits and Sound Bar is one of the newer additions to the collection of eateries in the Lyn-Lake area. This eatery and sound bar has 2 distinct spaces, each with its own large bar. White and deep purple, 16 foot walls feature works by local artists. The exhibits rotate every 2 months or so. The sound bar has a small stage for their live entertainment; check out their website for upcoming performances.

Fernando and I were in the mood for some place different for brunch. The weekend brunch at Cause is an incredible value ($10.99). This great buffet includes made-to-order omelets, tofu scrambles, cheesy hash browns, scrambled eggs, sausage links, bacon, tofu fritters, mini pancakes, french toast wedges, pizza slices, salad, and yogurt. The selections can vary each week. The all you can eat buffet is delicious; my favorites were the cheesy, gooey hash browns, crunchy tofu fritters and fluffy mini pancakes. One Bloody Mary, Screwdriver, or Mimosa Greyhound is included. Repeats on your beverage are available for a small charge.

Cause Spirits is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night munching with a casual menu of pasta, pizza, sandwiches and the usual breakfast fare (served all day).

Service with a smile and a story, tasty comfort food and an eclectic mix of diners... a perfect combination to start your Saturday or Sunday!

Mmm... Mmm...

Cause Spirits & Sound Bar

$$

++++

&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

EL DORADO - Puerto Vallarta

El Dorado is one of the newer eateries in the Zona Romantica area, Vallarta's most energized neighborhood with the south side beach, restaurants, bars, lounges, and beach side eateries. El Dorado completed a total renovation a few weeks back.

The new space is a sexy beach eatery including a roof top space perfect watching the beach-goers and the Pacific's stunning sunsets. The quartet of owners, Richard Haverlack, Juan Zuno (Executive Chef of Boca Bento), Alice Ardisonne, and Homer Santiago have created a sexy, tropical dining destination on Los Muertos Beach. The Latin & Asian inspired dishes will have your taste buds dancing! The large palapa roof covers an open dining room accented in bright blue and green.

During this trip I made 2 visits to El Dorado - each exceeded my expectations. However, I cannot find my "meal notes" written on napkins. I believe my housekeeper discarded them.

Go for Happy Hour and dinner on the beach served by extremely friendly staff. End your evening basking in the glow of one of their fire pits as the sun sets over the Pacific... aah paradise!

I will be certain to not lose my notes when I make a return visit to Vallarta in May.

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

El Dorado

$$

++++

&&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

MARANTINA - Puerto Vallarta

Marantina, a sexy & vibrant lounge and eatery, recently opened in Zona Romantica, Vallarta's most energized neighborhood with the south side beach, restaurants, bars, lounges and beach side cafes. For those familiar with Puerto Vallarta, Marantina is located in the former Kit Kat location. Marantina's space pops with bright red walls, comfortable seating, seductive lounge music, plus patio & courtyard seating.

During my last visit in August, friends and I stopped by for martinis and conversation. On this trip, I was fortunate to attend their Grand Opening last week; they featured their namesake martini and a plethora of mouth-watering appetizers.

This evening, I wanted to return for a complete dinner and asked Treavor to join me. We chose to sit on the patio - much better for people watching! Of course, we began with martinis. Treavor had a "Bloody" (similar to a Bloody Mary) and I had the Pepino (cucumber) martini - very refreshing and easily addictive! The most incredible squares of fresh, hot bread with herb-infused butter is served with the cocktails. I admit it - we asked for seconds.

The short menu features tropically inspired Asian dishes + some Mexican classics. I selected the thick cut bone-in pork chop accompanied by a creamy risotto and a medley of roasted cauliflower, slivers of carrot and sliced figs. Fantastic! Treavor chose the shrimp dusted in dried chipotle resting on fresh guacamole and roasted beet chips. He quickly devoured it without so much as a sample for me.

Co-owner, Erica Mercedes Manuale, the perfect hostess, moved among tables ensuring her guests were enjoying themselves. Our adorable and very friendly server, Carlos, was spot-on with his suggestions and excellent service. I have already added this eatery to my "must-do" list for my return trip in December.

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

Marantina's

$$

+++++

&&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

GORKHA PALACE - Minneapolis

Gorkha Palace is one the newest eateries in Northeast Minneapolis. The deep, golden orange walls and simple, cozy decor are warm & welcoming. Rashmi Bhattachan, Gorkha's very friendly co-owner, has been selling her incredible Nepalese dumplings for the past 4 years at the Mill City Market. She told me that after hearing the same comments from her food stand's regular customers, the time had come to take the next leap and open a restaurant. Gorkha Place has been open for 30 days.

While reading the tantalizing menu, we nibbled on Paapaddums - a super thin crispy lentil cracker from India. We order 2 sauces for dipping: Golbheda Achaar - a spicy tomato chutney with garlic, ginger, and jalapeno; Raita - a tangy yogurt based sauce with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and black pepper. The Golbdheda Achaar was fantastic; we felt the Raita needed more sweet and spice and less "sour" from the yogurt. The paapaddums were very tasty but a bit more "oily" than the paapaddums I had when traveling in India. I attribute this to being new and the eatery being very busy tonight. There was not an empty table in the house.

Alejandro and I began our incredible meal with a plate of Yak Momos. Yes, yak. These Nepalese steamed pot stickers (a bit larger than a golf ball) were stuffed with ground yak, tidbits of scallion, shredded cabbage, minced garlic & ginger and accented with mild curry & garam masala. Garam masala is a blend of cloves, malabar leaves, black cumin, black & white peppercorns, nutmeg, star anise, cardamom and cinnamon; this blend is often found in Indian cuisine. These delicious, slightly chewy pot stickers were paired with a marvelous tomato chutney of tomato puree, bits of tomato, cilantro, & onion. The yak is raised locally in Cold Spring MN from stock brought to Minnesota from Tibet. The Yak Man (yak-man.com) sells his special meat to many of the Tibetan restaurant in the upper Midwest.

Our choice for dinner was another first for both of us. . . Khasi Ko Masu (halal). This scrumptious stew-like entree of bone-in chunks of locally grown goat in a thick sauce of yogurt, yellow curry, ginger, and onion. Stewing the meat+bone added a fantastic depth to the sauce. The "stew" is spooned over white rice. We were told the goat bones are meant to held with your fingers & nibbled clean. Unbelievably delicious!

I am very anxious to return for more of Rashmi's food made with love for her growing legion of friends!

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

$$

++++

&&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

YUMMY CUPCAKES - Santa Monica

Yummy Cupcakes is located on Wilshire Boulevard, one-half block from the infamous Third Street Promenade. This location's walls have a variety of bold white & pink stripes or brown & pink stripes. Large photographs featuring their delectable cupcakes adorn the walls. The very high ceilings make the space seem much larger than it is. The very friendly counter staff is eager to tell you their favorites - no sampling! :(

There is a monthly flavor calender offering 16 flavors available all month, plus an additional 5 daily flavors. Yummy Cupcakes also offers vegan and sugar-free creations.

I had the "Red Velvet Cocoa" with cream cheese frosting and a "Peanut Butter Cup" with a creamy peanut butter frosting. Both cupcakes were extremely moist with deep rich flavors and an abundance of frosting. Their use of high quality ingredients is very evident. Simply decadent!

One of my favorites was "missing" from the menu - large muffin tops. Hint, hint...

In addition to this location, there is a Yummy Cupcake in Burbank and another soon to open in Brentwood.

Run, don't walk to get your handful of heaven!

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

$

++++

&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

SNUG HARBOR - Santa Monica

Snug Harbor opened in 1941 on Wilshire Boulevard. This diner has change hands only 3 times since it inception, the last time was in the 90's. This cozy eatery has a soda fountain-like service counter with 10 single seats and 5 booths in the dining room. My friends, Richard & Roberta, and I chose to sit in their small garden area with 5 umbrella-covered tables. Varying shades of green are the colours du jour throughout the relaxing garden and dining room.

Alejandro's huge personality & speedy service was most appreciated. Following his recommendation, I had "Angie's Yum Yum Chicken Breast" sandwich. This sandwich was added to the menu when it last changed hands at the request of the current owner's daughter. This amazing sandwich has a large grilled chicken breast, 1000 Island dressing, pepper jack cheese, sliced tomato, & basil leaves. The slices of sourdough bread holding this sandwich together were buttered, sprinkled with bits of garlic and grilled creating a crunchy crust. A mound of the most incredible, crispy, sweet potato fries completed this delicious lunch plate!

After living in or visiting Santa Monica for 25+ years, I am surprised to have made my first visit to this little neighborhood gem - only 15 blocks from my former residence. Snug Harbor will definitely be a stop on my next visit to Santa Monica.

Bring extra napkins!

Mmm... Mmm...


$

++++

&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

CHIN CHIN - Los Angeles (Brentwood)

Chin Chin, one of my favorite eateries for... maybe 20 years, is on San Vicente Boulevard in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles. Since my last visit, the space has been comfortably updated with deep brown leather bench, booth and chair seating seating, white cloth napkins, lightened Walls and drop trendy globe lighting. In addition, I discovered a recently completed, fantastic renovation of a rooftop space for added outdoor seating.

My lunch companions, Richard and Roberta, were as excited as I to return to Chin Chin. Taking the advise of our extremely friendly server - Gavin, we decided to share a starter plate of their Szechuan Dumplings. The plump dumplings stuffed with minced chicken, onion, ginger & garlic were perfectly cooked. The accompanying dipping sauce accented with soy, citrus and cilantro was perfect!

For lunch, we ordered their "famous" Chinese Chicken Salad. The salad of shredded lettuce, chunks of chicken breast, shredded carrots, toasted slivered almonds, tidbits of scallion, red pepper, and thin crunchy wonton strips tossed in an amazing ginger dressing. This masterpiece is topped with crispy rice noodles. The incredible salad is large enough to share but no - we each ordered our own and left nothing on our plates. Delicious!

I will most certainly be returning for the great service, the relaxing outdoor space and the delectable menu!

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

ChinChin.com

$

++++

&&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

CRAVE - Bloomington (Mall of America)

Crave opened in the former California Cafe space about a year ago on the 3rd floor of the Mall of America. This is one of 3 Crave locations in the Minneapolis area plus another in Orlando. The very large, open space is accented in subdued tones of copper, brown and gold. It features a huge open kitchen, a sushi bar, and a floor-to-ceiling glass octagon wine cellar near the front door. Kudos for the soothing background music that encourages conversation while dining!

Heather, my very friendly server, recommended the brunch. It is an incredible value at $16. The extensive list of all-you-can-eat brunch options includes: a mimosa (only 1 is included), fluffy scrambled eggs with smoked Tillamook cheese, smoked ham, thick slices of applewood smoked bacon, crispy skinned sausage links that pop under the pressure of a fork, homemade buttery hash browns, wheat toast & jam, fresh fruit bowl of melon, blackberries, strawberries, pineapple, and oranges and finally... sticky buns. If that is not enough, there is a French toast bar and a made-to-order omelet bar. An amazing start to a day of shopping!

I recommend the management implement a system to let the bus boys know when their guests are at the French toast or omelet bar. I went to get an omelet and returned to find that my table had been cleared and reset for their next guests. A waiter rushed over to ask if he could assist; I explained what had happened. He apologized, reseated me, and brought another mimosa and a bowl of the fresh fruit. Great recovery! This could be a major snafu if guests go to the omelet bar and return to find other guests seated at their table. They might consider using a marker system similar to Fugo de Chao.

With 45 sushi selections on the menu, I observed as many guests eating sushi as were eating the brunch. On my next visit, I will be at the sushi bar.

The tables for 2 are too close. I was tempted on several occasions to join the conversation at the next table; at one point, a guest was commenting on how much she enjoyed the sushi but she could not figure out what the thin "pink slices" were on her plate. I wanted to tell her, but I didn't.

Crave is a comfortable, upscale casual eatery. Those behind this restaurant have developed a reputation in the city for being better than average. They also own "The View" near Lake Calhoun - another of my favorites! If you do find yourself at the Mall of America, be certain to visit Crave.

Mmm... Mmm...

Crave.com

$$

++++

&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

CRAFTSMAN RESTAURANT & BAR – Minneapolis

Craftsman's name is a giveaway to the design surprises found inside the very comfortable space. The wall sconces, drop lighting, very high ceilings, gorgeous woodwork, stunning wooden bar, comfy highback bar chairs with leather seats, and over-sized slowly moving ceiling fans. The comfortable elements are wrapped in subdued sage green, yellow and burgundy walls.

Our friendly waiter, whose service was stretched between too many tables, explained that the Craftsman is an eco-friendly, sustainable, organic restaurant for the past 5 years.

I started with a "Beet Bloody Mary" - the beet juice is a delicious balance to the expected heat of a Bloody Mary. So refreshing, we each 2!

I had the "Craftsman Breakfast" - 2 eggs scrambled, 2 pieces of Fisher Farms smoked ham and hash. The fluffy eggs arrived with a hash of chopped potatoes, purple cabbage and red onion. Both were exceptional. The ham had great flavor but too much fat. I am surprised the fatty end piece left the kitchen. I prefer smoked cured to sugar cured ham; what I did eat was delicious. The side of sourdough grilled bread was served with an incredible honey... apple flower, I believe.

This very popular Longfellow neighborhood eatery has a large attached outdoor dining area. I am anxious to return for an al fresco dining experience in the garden exploding with color from the numerous large planters. Thomas and I decided to venture outside the downtown area for brunch and try something new. We found the Craftsman and were very pleased we stopped.

Mmm... Mmm...

Craftsman Restaurant & Bar

$

+++

&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

JOE JACK’S FISH SHACK – Puerto Vallarta

I am not certain how many visits I have made to Joe Jack’s Fish Shack, located in the Zona Romantica area of Vallarta - the most energized area of PV with the south side's beach, restaurants, bars, lounges and beach side cafes. I have thoroughly enjoyed each meal.

I typically ask for a table up in the rooftop dining area. This evening my favorite server, Guillermo a.k.a. Memo, was working the first floor dining room. The deep red walls, high ceilings, large mirrors and exposed brick surround a small bar that cozily seats 6.

It has become a tradition of mine to have at least one Mermaid Martini - a very refreshing, addictive concoction of Alize, Absolut Citron & fresh lime juice.

Tonight I asked Memo to order for me. He suggested Octopus a la Plancha (grilled baby octopus) for dinner. This entrée was so popular as a daily special it now has a permanent place on the menu.

The baby octopus is steamed then marinated in EVOO, salt, pepper & a bit of garlic. Each octopus is individually marinated with a serving of potato chunks, slices of chorizo, whole green beans, black olives and whole roasted tomatoes; the “dinner in a bag” marinates all day until ordered by a guest. The dinner is grilled caramelizing the octopus. The marinade is reduced to a wonderful, deep brown sauce exploding with big flavors. The sauce is poured over the grilled octopus, etc and served in a large flat bowl. Fantastic!

Joe Jack’s Fish Shack continues to be one of my must-do eateries in Puerto Vallarta. I plan on returning in April!

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

Link to prior Joe Jack's visit

JoeJack'sFishShack.com

$$

++++

&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

CHEEKY MONKEY DELI - St Paul

Cheeky Monkey Deli's wide, open space of bright, white tiles, red & glossy white walls, huge fireplace, chalkboard menus and an eclectic collection of “frame within a frame” artwork of Andy Warhol prints, comic book covers, record album covers and vintage black & white images welcomes you with open arms and huge smiles from the staff! There are no deep fryers hiding in the back making it very easy to enjoy the amazing aromas drifting from the kitchen, even after 14 months in business.

My friend, Beverly, was back in the City and we decided to return to one of our favorite casual evening eateries for breakfast. This was our first visit for breakfast BUT will not be the last!

Nick, our energetic and extremely friendly server, was spot-on with a recommendation - the seasonal quiche. Today, it was mushrooms, brie, and tidbits of roasted chicken in the fluffiest egg mixture. All this goodness was resting on a buttery homemade crust - the lightest and flakiest crust I have eaten in some time. Nick mentioned that they serve and incredible andouille sausage. He was right. The side of andouille sausage made locally in Cannon Falls MN has a snappy skin that explodes with flavor. The lean sausage was surprisingly juicy; I'd expect nothing less. The delicious dark roasted organic coffee from Equal Exchange was a never-ending mug of happiness.

Their slogan "Meat & Drink" is so fitting. Aah. . .another fantastic meal and a perfect way to start the day!

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

Link to prior Cheeky Monkey visit

CheekyMonkeyDeli.com

$

++++

&&&

Entrée

$ 10

$$ 20

$$$ 30

$$$$ 40+

Staff

+ Stop bothering me!

++ Anyone here?

+++ Stopped when in the area.

++++ As needed and friendly.

+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall

& “One visit too many!”

&& “Convince me!”

&&& “I’ll be back!”

&&&& “Same table next week!”

GILMAR – Puerto Vallarta

Gilmar is located in Zona Romantica on Madero (2 streets before crossing the Rio Cuale into el centro). This area of Vallarta is the older, charming Puerto Vallarta. Zona Romantica is Vallarta's most energized neighborhood with the south side beach, restaurants, bars, lounges and beach side cafes.

Gilmar is a traditional, casual Mexican restaurant serving great food since 1979. At this simply decorated, comfortable eatery, the décor is not the focus – the food is!

For my starter, I had the made-to-order salsa prepared table side. Roberto was my sexy, witty server and “salsa chef.” His huge smile would melt even the chilliest of diners. Roberto created an incredible salsa from roasted tomatoes, fresh garlic cloves, white onion, cilantro, and roasted Serrano chilies. Based on my preferences and using a stone bowl, he mashed and blended the perfect salsa. A warm basket of homemade tortilla chips arrived from the kitchen just as he finished his creation. The secret to a great salsa is first roasting the vegetables & Gilmar knocks it out of the park. Delicious!

For dinner, I chose the Arrachera a la Parrilla (approx $9US) – a thin cut of flank or skirt steak rubbed with crushed garlic, oil, and coarse salt. The steak generally marinates for a minimum of 30 minutes & then it’s on to the grill. I believe Roberto told me Gilmar’s marinates the meat overnight. Prior to serving, the steak is drizzled with lime juice. Few spices, but huge flavor. The steak platter arrives with warm tortillas and 3 fantastic sides including grilled white onions, guacamole and refried beans... the perfect “foursome”.

Tonight, I was in the mood for dessert. I could not resist the Fried Ice Cream. The baseball size ball of vanilla ice cream is first dipped into foamy egg whites and then rolled in a combination of brown sugar, cinnamon and crushed “cornflake-like” cereal. It is deep fried for approximately 10 seconds creating a sweet, crisp blanket. The ice cream ball rests on a strawberry puree and is generously drizzled with a warm, dark chocolate sauce. The warm crust with the cool, creamy inside is out of this world.

An amazing meal at a fantastic price. I can honestly say I will be returning in January!

Mmm… Mmm…

GilmarRestaurant.com

$
++++
✦✦✦

Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+

Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”

CHEEKY MONKEY DELI - St Paul

Cheeky Monkey Deli opened in February ’09 in a wide, open space of bright, white tiles, red & glossy white walls, a huge fireplace, chalkboard menus and an eclectic collection of “frame within a frame” artwork of Andy Warhol prints, comic book covers, record album covers and vintage black & white images. It works! There are no deep fryers hiding in the back making it very easy to enjoy the amazing aromas drifting from the kitchen. The steady stream of diners placing orders at the front counter indicates that the secret is out!

I have had several great experiences on prior visits; I decided to treat my parents to a dinner at one of the best casual eateries I have found in the Twin Cities.

We didn’t break my tradition and had the meat board as the starter. The fine selection of mortadella, pate, Genoa salami and prosciutto arrived with olive oil, balsamic vinegar reduction, sun dried tomatoes and an incredible combination of chopped olives & peppers (similar to tapenade with less EVOO). We used the small thin slices of French bread to make tiny open face sandwiches that quickly disappeared.

For dinner, I chose the meat loaf – the 2 thick slices were a delicious combination of beef, veal, & bits of onion resting in the pan sauce accented with butter and parsley. The side of spicy mayo included sambal creating a flavor explosion. Sambal is a very popular condiment from Southeast Asia of "mortar & pestoled" chili peppers & salt as its base. Yumm. I also had the griddle potatoes – thick, golden brown slices of Idaho potatoes generously dusted with paprika, black pepper, coarse salt & parsley.

As we finished our dinner, my father said there are few restaurants that he has gone to that he would want to talk about but this is one of them. My parents and I agree – this casual restaurant with an inviting atmosphere, super friendly staff and incredible food is fantastic!

Cheeky Monkey takes simple ingredients and makes them exceptional!

Link to prior Cheeky Monkey visit

Mmm... Mmm... Mmm...

CheekyMonkeyDeli.com

$
++++
✦✦✦✦

Entrée
$ 10
$ 20
$ 30
$ 40+

Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”

BOCA BENTO - Mismaloya/Puerto Vallarta

Boca Bento is located in Mismaloya – a quick 15 minute taxi ride south of Puerto Vallarta. Boca Bento’s comfortable dining room is a large covered dining area (without walls) surrounded by tropical garden spaces.

Jose & I wanted a “change of scenery” so we headed south for lunch. We ended up at one of my favorites, Boca Bento.

For the starter, we had the Queso Findido – an incredible blend of 3 cheeses (Chihuahua, Manchego, & Oaxaca). We requested crumbled chorizo be added. This combination was baked to a gooey goodness and served with warm flour tortillas. A trio of sauces – pico de gallo, sour cream, and guerea (roasted tomatoes, peppers, garlic & onion) accompanied the starter. These sauces were first spread on the tortilla followed by a couple of spoons of the cheese mixture. Amazing!

For lunch, I had the fish tacos. The grilled white fish was marinated in orange juice, garlic, tomato, achiote & apple cider vinegar. The flaky fish was piled in a tortilla topped with shredded lettuce and a generous drizzle of a jabanero mayo sauce. Fantastic.

Kudos to Stewart & Monica (the owners) for keeping Chef Juan Zuno in charge of the menu. His creations continue to excite me. Back in a few months. . .

Link to prior Boca Bento visit

Mmm, Mmm, Mmm…

http://bocabento.com/

$$
++++
✦✦✦✦

Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+

Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”

BITE ME! BEACH CLUB - Puerto Vallarta

Bite Me! Beach Club’s indoor/outdoor café is located on the beach about 4 blocks south of the wooden pier in the Zona Romantica area – the older charming Puerto Vallarta. The casual, relaxing space of flowing drapes, dark woods, comfortable tables & chairs on an elevated outdoor dining area and yards & yards of glass if you choose to dine inside – and nothing to obstruct your views of the beach & the bay.

This casual beach club eatery recently came under new management. I believe Grant is the new manager. His unending energy has successfully re-energized the beach club.

Jaime and I spent the afternoon enjoying tall, perfectly tart vodka lemonades and all of the beach eye candy!

We started with a “flower” of angular chips and a mound of fantastic guacamole and a side of pico de gallo that had just a bit of heat. The beautiful presentation was accented with bits of red & yellow peppers. Salvador made certain we did not run out of warm chips!

For lunch, I had the “Mein Herr” sandwich – a stack of Black Forest Ham, Swiss cheese, tomato and mayo on a toasted pumpernickel sub-like roll (baked fresh daily). A side of hot and crispy fries came as a side. A salad of baby greens and carrot slivers were tossed in a balsamic vinegar and wine reduction dressing. This crisp salad was creatively served in a radicchio cup. Delicious! This reincarnation is a huge improvement over its past life.

Grant’s smile, personality and ‘biting’ humor kept the tables filled with guests. He has retained the same sexy & very friendly staff. Julio, Frederico and Salvador are quick to accommodate!

I will most certainly be returning to Bite Me! on my next visit in November.

Mmm, Mmm, Mmm…

$
++++
✦✦✦✦

Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+

Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”

OUD HOLLAND - Amsterdam

Oud Holland (Old Holland) is a few blocks off Damrak in Dam Square. Oud Holland is located in a 2 ½ story house built in 1649. Yes, 1649. This house became a café in the late 19th century. It was THE place to meet for editors and journalists on Holland’s “Fleet Street” in the 1920’s. The very comfortable and charming space has flocked paper on the upper ½ of the walls and wood paneled lower walls, with beautiful Dutch antiques throughout. The wooden tables are covered in bright red table clothes with red & white checkered cloth napkins.

For my starter, I chose the Kippe/Groenstesoep (Chicken Soup). The clear chicken broth had the most intense chicken flavor with just a hint of bay leaves. The tidbits of potato, carrot and chicken breast were not overcooked – still slightly chewy. The slivers of white onion, celery, & bits of parsley enhanced this incredible soup that was served in a large metal soup cup.

I had the Ptuttelpot (Beef Stew) as my main dish. The large pieces of beef simmer for 8 hours prior to serving. Chunks of carrot and onion, bay leaves and chives are added near the end of the “simmer” creating a thick, very satisfying meal. The beef stew is served in a large flat metal bowl-like plate with a mound of coarsely mashed potatoes. This incredible stew is served with a side of slightly sweet carrot balls in a light butter sauce as well as a side of steamed brussel sprouts tossed in butter and a hint of garlic. The veggies are to be eaten as sides and not combined with the stew.

A small metal bowl of slightly tart applesauce that comes as another side with the stew is the perfect end to this fantastic meal. This amazing stew & sides are only 16,40 EUR (approx $21 USD).

Geyser, the café’s house cat, quietly moves among the diners for some TLC. Believe me, this cat is not deprived of attention! No… he is not a tabletop jumper.

As I was eating my way through Amsterdam I quickly learned that if you want to add a tip to your card, you need to let your server know up front or leave money on the table. Adding it when you sign the receipt is not an option at any of the eateries where I dined. Another learning I had is that soda refills are not free and often cost 2,50 EUR (approx $3.20 USD) each.

Robert, my extremely friendly server, was always ready to answer a question or provide a suggestion in perfect English with a very sexy accent and a huge smile!

I asked 2 different hotel concierges for their recommendation of a great local café serving outstanding Dutch food – both told me to try Oud Holland. I agree!

Mmm, Mmm, Mmm…

$$
++++
✦✦✦

Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+

Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!

Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”