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Sat, 03 Mar 2007 16:20:59 GMT

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moderately priced in Lakewood, CO

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 04:55:00 GMT

I haven't eaten in Lakewood too often, so I hope some Hounds from around there can help. If you were to ask for a great pizza place, I would have suggested Virgilio's for great New England pies. That would work for your vegetarian colleague. So would an Inidan/Nepalese place called Namaste, but I've never eaten there. Otherwise, Lakewood itself has mostly chains. Golden isn't far, and neither is the west side of Denver. Excellent Chinese at Super Star and King's Land, both on Alameda near Federal. Many ethnic eatries up and down Federal too.

AJ's Vegas-Truffled Mac & Cheese YUM

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 04:06:48 GMT

We had some truly great dinners at AJ's... and you never knew who you were going to see there. Too bad it is closing.

Looking for Las Vegas Steakhouses

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 04:00:39 GMT

I would have suggested AJ's at Hard Rock for a bachelor party... however it is closed/closing. The best steak I've ever had anywhere, let alone in Vegas, was a Mario Batali's Carnevino @ Palazzo. Great steak, wonderful sides and a wine list for all tastes and budgets.

Tarbell or Durant

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 02:43:32 GMT

I am a born and raise NYer as well as I would have to say Binkley's is a MUST!!! Greatest place on earth for adults. I would defintely skip Durants and Tarbells- Hate to this but they are Has-beens.

Free wi-fi around Chandler?

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 02:37:51 GMT

Both the Whole Foods and Paradise Bakery on Ray have free wifi. Also try Penny's Ice Cream on Ray & Dobson or the Maui Wowie juice place on Ray and Federal (across from the Toyota Financial building).

Review: Yasu Sushi Bistro (Phoenix, AZ)

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 02:23:15 GMT

I cannot attest to its authenticity because I've never been to Japan but I can say that we enjoyed our dinner at Roka Akor immensely and tried many of the robata items. From what I recall reading, the grill chefs were all trained in Japan. As far as authenticity, I think it's authentic in the sense that their prices rival what you'd pay in Tokyo...especially with a really weak $USD! A lot of people have bashed Roka Akor because it's very "Scottsdale" and glitzy, but if you can get past that and accept it for what it is, the food is quite good.

Dining Alone in Phoenix

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:13:56 GMT

I assume you mean the Hyatt Regeny in Downtown Phoenix? (There's another in the nearby suburb Scottsdale). If so, these are good places to dine alone and less than half a mile walking distance from the hotel: Sens -- Asian tapas place; sit at the bar and have two or three tapas and a drink. You should fill up for less than $40. District -- restaurant / bar in the Downtown Sheraton -- much better than the restaurants and bars at the Hyatt. Sit at the bar and order food with a pint of a microbrew. Pizzeria Bianco -- Phoenix's acclaimed pizzeria. Normally, there's an long, long wait to get in, but if you go alone on the late side early in the week, a single seat at the bar might be open without much wait. Kincaid's -- local outpost of a small seafood / steakhouse chain; full menu available in the bar Sam's Cafe -- southwestern food; a little tame compared to more foodie-oriented places elsewhere around town, but good enough; full menu available at the bar.

Another Positive Noca Review(PHX)

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 22:59:40 GMT

> the Arizona was in there, but you had to be looking closely. Absolutely! I completely agree on both counts. I certainly didn't mean to imply the meal was utterly bereft of any local ingredients. The region has such a long, high-quality growing season that a chef would have to be an idiot (and NOCA's chef clearly isn't an idiot) to fail to take advantage of produce from nearby. My point was that from the menu to the decor to the overall vibe, NOCA was relatively (and seemingly quite deliberately) light on local color. Again, depending on what interests you, this could be for better or worse, but it seems worth noting. I'd forgotten about the amuse -- so good! Thanks for reminding me.

Christmas lunch or dinner in Scottsdale/East Valley?

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 22:17:35 GMT

We have family coming for Christmas. Last year (in Australia) we went to a great buffet at a hotel - seafood, Santa, beautiful decor. Any suggestions on anything similar in this area? Or anywhere that does a traditional 'Christmas dinner'?

Chef-to-Chef [PHX]

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 22:00:17 GMT

Any experiences with this quasi-CSA in Phoenix? Thinking about signing up, but would like some feedback if at all possible. Thanks. More info here: http://chef-to-chef.com/

Colorado Springs Burgers and Green Chile?

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 21:18:30 GMT

Not sure how the burgers are, but the Western Omelette in Colorado Springs had great green chile. It is an independently owned greasy diner kinda place - breakfast and lunch fare only. I'm not a local so I don't have anything to compare it to, but I have had my share of green chile and theirs was fantastic (and when you tell them you want it hot, they'll make it really really hot).

Nero's - Caesars LV

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 21:14:52 GMT

I have hit a lot of the steak houses here over the past couple of years, but have never been here. I have a friend coming in to town next week, staying at the Flamingo, and she has expressed a burning desire for steak . In terms of proximity, I thought about Prime, but also about this place. Has anyone been recently? The prices are at least as high as anywhere else on the Strip (with the possible exception of Cut and CarneVino). The menu indicates that the steaks are dryaged for at least 28 days. Any comments will be appreciated. Thanks.

Marketsides in Phoenix

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:19:45 GMT

My husband was given a substantial stack of coupons for 6 cent entrees, so he's tried a couple. I'm pretty picky and wary of pre-prepared stuff, but he says they've been respectably good. For six cents, it's certainly worth the price. ;-)

Delicious Dives in Santa Fe?

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:03:23 GMT

Los Potrillos is some of the best damn food Ive ever had.... I had chicken smothered in a pineapple/cream/chile sauce.... TO DIE FOR. And yes, excellent flan to whoever mentioned that. mmm............

Afternoon Tea in Las Vegas

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:01:33 GMT

Great Review, thank you for sharing...

Piero's has closed???

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 19:54:39 GMT

They're open; I was just there. Good as ever. I added a review of my experience there below, as well as my travel blog: http://www.jetsetway.com/entries/piero-s-restaurant-in-las-vegas

Need restaurant in Scottsdale for Friday night

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 19:40:12 GMT

As far as something not too fancy but still delicious, we were recently there in September and our fav meal was at Humble Pie. Great pizza with a more gourmet feel- I thought it was fantastic. Go for the proscuitto with caramelized pears and arugula- soooo good.

Good eats around Fountain Hills, AZ?

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 18:57:43 GMT

I love the french bistro, Boulvard Cafe', family owned byob a great place for breakfast, lunch or dinner. FH also has a great french bakery, La Tartane (sp), one block west of the Goodwill store. I was there last week and loaded up, it is worth the drive for me from Scottsdale to hit there.

Looking for great Mexican in Tucson

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 18:36:31 GMT

Marisco Chihuahua is a good choice. They are all run by different family memebers. The one on Grande is, in my humble opinion. The best. Little Poca Cosa is only open for breakfast and lunch and takes cash only. Maico on 22nd near Park Ave recently got a good review but you have to sit outside on picnic tables. I have not tried it. Go to El Guerro Canelo on 12th Avenue for the Sonoran hot dogs and carmelos.

Teppan in Phx? 16th St & Camelback?

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:26:08 GMT

This was my second choice after Akayo... which only exists in my mind these days. :) Thanks for the backup!

Yuma

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 14:19:27 GMT

Yeah, restaurants in Yuma definitely close on the early side, especially if they don't have customers. On the other hand, I've noticed many times that the taco stands are often late in getting started. You definitely need to have some flexibility when dining in Yuma. Ed is right, however. If you find yourself in this situation again, Taqueria San Pedro is quite good, and the semi-permanent seating area makes it much better for those hesitant to eat from taco trucks. Looking like I'm coming back in February. I've got my hit list of places ready...

Yet another birthday decision (PHX)

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:27:06 GMT

Wanted to report back: We stuck with Binkley's, and it was fantastic. Going in with a lot of personal anticipation and "hype," it truly matched or exceeded it in every way. The five of us all did a 5-course tasting, without a single disappointing dish. The amuses were all really delicious, humorous, and a lot of fun. Service was impeccable, and everything very well timed. We were all in agreement that it was much more than a really nice meal, but a dining/cullinary "experience." Great fun...thanks for the input.

Mochi in Tucson?

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:42:25 GMT

i WENT THERE THE OTHER DAY AND PAID ALMOST $6 DOLLARS FOR A MEDIUM! That's crazy! They only offer four flavors, and two of those are chocolate and vanilla!

3 Days in Vegas....Here are my picks....do you agree?

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 03:48:00 GMT

We just got back from 4 nights in Las Vegas and went to a few of the places you mention. No need for reservations at Bouchon for breakfast. We were there last Sunday at about 9:30 and there was no wait. It was good. We had a late dinner at Burger Bar after Mama Mia. It was a good enough burger but I don't think there's any reason to go out of my way to eat there. I had a bacon cheese burger with an egg added on. My wife had the sliders which she said were good but she preferred the ones at Fix in Bellagio. For reasons that are unclear to me, we ended up going to both Craftsteak and Cut. We had the fall menu at Craftsteak. It's a lot of food and not a bad price ($75pp). Service seemed rather indifferent. In past visits, we've had excellent service. Dinner consisted of caesar, prosciutto, red peppers, and lobster bisque. The bisque was exceptional with many chunks of lobster. Main courses were scallops, skirt steak, sirloin, jerusalem artichokes, sweet potato puree, spinach. The sweet potatoes were cloyingly sweet but the rest was good. Dessert was warm chocolate cake with ice cream plus monkey bread pudding with ice cream. The monkey bread pudding wasn't that appealing to either of us and I usually like bread pudding. The warm chocolate cake was good plus we were pretty stuffed by then. I noticed other tables got different desserts so YMMV. Cut was excellent. We had steak tartare, beet salad, american kobe fillet, nebraska rib eye, fries, savoy cabbage rolls, and banana cream pie. Had a late dinner at Mesa Grill. Lighting is bad in the room with glaring spot lights on some tables (like ours). There was also a cold draft which I'm used it in the summer with mega A/C running but it was rainy and cool the day we ate there. Had salmon/tuna tartares, apple salad for apps. Salmon was quite good with a nice spice. Wife had chicken something or other. She enjoyed it. I had duck breast which came with a tamale with goat cheese. Our food was good but something about it just seemed blah. Dessert was a warm chocolate cake. I don't know if I'd return for dinner but I'd do lunch again. We went to Enoteca ealier this year. I thought it was terrible. The pizza crust was like soda crackers. Fiamma has been good in the past although we haven't been in a year or so.

[PHX] Noca - Third Time's a Charm [Long]

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 02:04:04 GMT

It was back to NOCA this weekend. During Thanksgiving dinner with our friends (the ones who joined us for our second trip there), mention was made that their daughter would be staying in Phoenix for the weekend and a request for us all to go to NOCA was made. Call was placed, and we had to settle for 6:30PM, as 7:00PM was taken. I’m glad that we actually went early, as our meal lasted just over three hours. After a few comments, in other threads, I set out to find the “music.” I have to admit that it was there. Has it been added, or did I just not hear it, or overlook it before? I don’t know. Our table was a bit farther down the north wall, so many the exact location is important. The restaurant was full, and the noise level was up a bit, over what I recall. This did not interfere with conversation at our table of five. Three were seated in the banquet benches, along the wall, and my wife and I were in chairs with our backs to the room. I think that one thing that contributed to my perception of the noise is the large mirror on the wall, which is angled slightly down. while this is nice to reveal a view of the room and the open kitchen, it probably reflected some of the sound down toward us. There are several of these mirrors along that same wall. Given absolute control, I’d probably have turned the level of music down by about 3db. This is the same music that I had not heard on two other trips. Maybe someone asked that it be turned up by 3db? Maybe I was just conditioned to hear it this trip. We arrived just at 6:30PM and the parking lot was about 3/4 full, though there were plenty of spaces near NOCA and the pub a few doors down. Once again, there were plenty of cars parked in the drive, rather than in the parking lot proper. My guess would be that these folk were patrons of the pub and did not want to have too far to stagger to their autos. I can see where those extra twenty steps might be a problem. At least the driveway is fairly wide and we always enter from 32nd. As per normal, we were greeted by Mr Wexler at the door and welcomed to NOCA. While I held the door for another party, we were immediately seated. Along the way, much of the staff extended a greeting to our party, even folk who appeared to be new to me. That attitude seems to extend to all of the staff and is appreciated. It is so seldom seen any longer, especially in some of the “hot” places, where the host/hostess seems bothered that a patron should interrupt their cell phone call, much less be greeted and seated. [Note to NOCA: please keep this attitude up.] Well, it seems that poor Robert drew the short straw back in the kitchen, as he was forced to deal with our party, yet again. He managed to hide his displeasure and whispered that I needed to check out the wine list, as there were even more offerings, since our last visit. He also noted that there were some “specials” printed at the bottom of the menu. When I’m dining at a new restaurant, or one that changes the menu often, I’ll normally check out the menu on-line. As fate would have it, the PDF was down, or being updated. Still, I had some very recent reports from CH, so I had some ideas before arriving. There was another change in the menus. The clipboards were still in use, but now the wine list is separate. I like this much better, for two reasons. I found the multi-page menu + list a tad unwieldy and I also like to keep a wine list handy, as we’ll often add a wine, or two as orders are decided and placed. This also saves on having to print a full copy of the wine list (especially as it has been changing) for each menu presented – win, win win. I just glanced at the b-t-g offerings, as we had a party of five. Only note that I made was that the Chateau Haut-Bergeron Sauternes was still being offered, and that the half-bottle selection had expanded. Both good things When it is just my wife and me dining, these are the first areas that I check – b-t-g and halves. I urge others to explore these, rather than try to choose a single full-bottle to compliment a multi-course meal with so many flavors and textures, as you’ll find at NOCA. A couple of half-bottle selections can cover a lot of territory. I applaud any restaurant that offers a good selection. The menu had changed, since our last visit. Yes, some “standards” like the skirt steak, were still there, but many items were new to me (except for the CH reports). Amidst the conversation, decisions were made. I started us off with the ‘06 le Clos du Caillou Côtes du Rhone blanc. This wine is a fairly traditional blend of Marsanne and Roussanne, two of the allowed white varietals from the Southern Rhône. I just reported on a 100% Marsanne that we had at Le Rêve in San Antonio. More often, a Côtes du Rhone blanc will be a blend. While making this decision, I had paused over the ‘07 Terredora di Paolo Falanghina, but opted for the French white instead. [More on this later.] The first wine came, just as the amuse bouche arrived. This was an avocado mousse with a sliver of pickled radish and a sprinkling of greens. The amuse was served in a spoon, normally associated with Oriental soups, which rested in a porcelain spoon stand on a small plate – very nice presentation. The pickled radish was a wonderful little burst of flavor on the base of avocado. The Clos du Caillou went well, but I think a lighter white might have done better. As we sipped and talked, it became evident that we were out of the Côtes du Rhone. I handed the list to the other gentleman. He immediately focused on the Falanghina. He’d hosted an Italian wine event a couple of months back and had used this varietal as his “welcome wine, though by a different producer. Unfortunately we were out of town for that party. I concurred and mentioning that it was calling to me, when I went with the Clos du Caillou. The Falanghina would have been a better “starter wine,” due to its lighter body, but we made do. Time had come to begin eating in earnest. As we had five diners, I won’t go into a lot of detail on every dish ordered, though we did surreptitiously pass tastes around. My wife and I started with the Roasted Chestnut Soup, with crispy foie gras raviolini and honey glazed pearl onions and the Duck Confit, served on a huckleberry waffle with Bliss vanilla maple syrup, frisee salad walnuts and dates. I had read of both of these earlier. Other orders at the table were the Sweetbread Fricassee with braised greens, Pancetta and sweet & sour demi-glace and a Foie Gras Torchon with quince jam, Marcona almonds on a toasted brioche. Fortunately, I still had some of the Côtes du Rhone, as it was a bit better with my chestnut soup. Yes, the Falanghina was better to begin, but was not holding up to some of dishes quite as well as the other white. At this point, we ordered a bottle of the ‘06 Seasmoke Southing Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir. We had to substitute the ‘05, as the ‘06 was gone, but this was whispered to me, so no surprise there. I wanted to try this with the soup, and as we’d done a Pinot Noir tasting at Thanksgiving, it seemed to follow, that we continue this tradition. It was a perfect match for the chestnut soup, which tasted as though it had a little cardamom for seasoning. The soup was very good, but I think that I prefer the Wild Mushroom Soup with crispy Porcini raviolini, melted leeks and baby carrots from the previous visit. The duck confit was excellent with a large portion of duck and tasty huckleberry “waffles’ on the side. The duck was sublime, but my wife would not share the waffles! I was so glad that we’d gotten the Pinot Noir, especially for the duck. As I was having the seared foie gras (held over on the menu from our earlier visit) and one guest was having the Foie Gras Torchon, I had ordered a couple of glasses of the Chateau Haut-Bergeron Sauternes. Though not my favorite preparation, normally, I have to admit that the torchon was absolutely a knockout. Coupled with the Sauternes, and it was unbeatable. I have never tasted such velvety foie gras. My next course was the Seared Foie Gras with pickled huckleberries, black pepper Fiji apple reduction on a brioche crouton. The other gentleman had been eyeing the Tagliatelle, with braised short-ribs, pearl onions, braised carrots and a Parmigianno-Reggiano velouté. He asked if the table would like to split an order, but everyone was doing all of the courses, that they thought they could handle. When my seared foie gras arrived, so did a small dish of the Tagliatelle! I was anticipating this “old favorite” so very much. Armed with my Sauternes, I dived in. Again, the velvety consistency with the piquancy of the searing. was wonderful. The pickled huckleberries were sweet, but tart – a wonderful point-counterpoint to the sweetness of the foie gras. This was almost as good as it had been on our previous visit. It was so very similar, but I think that the apples might have “seemed” to be missing in action. They just did not come into play as before. Still, this was a total winner. I just wish that the apples had stood out a tiny bit more. It feels like heresy not giving this dish a pure 100, but it was only a 98 instead – great, but not quite perfect, as before. Maybe it was that taste of the other foie gras that twisted my palate, or maybe the applemonger had not done his/her duty that day. I still am glad to see this dish continue on the menu. Just like the skirt steak, I think that it is a “keeper.” After the foie gras overload, remember that I also had foie gras raviolini in the soup, I was not sure that I even wanted my main-course. I could have just done more of the duck confit and been happy. Still, I pressed on, just for Chowhound. I had the Day Boat Scallops with sunchoke purée, broccoli rabe, parsnips, Maitake mushrooms and herb sauce, while my wife had the Tagliatelle. The scallop dish came with three giant mollusks, perfectly seared and oh so tender and flavorful. Initially, I was a little dubious of only three scallops, even with all that I had eaten. Well, that thought soon passed, even after sharing sizable portions to all but one around the table. I could barely finish the dish. It is like when my wife watches the temperature numbers on the TV screen, or in her car. “It’s not about the numbers,” I admonish, “It’s about how it feels.” The same goes for this scallop dish. Do not count the number of scallops, just begin eating, and you’ll see that they are more than enough. For those interested, I ate all of my broccoli too. It was perfectly steamed, tender yet crisp all at the same time. I really played with the sunchoke purée, because of a thread on the Wine board. I did not find that much taste to it, but what was there was perfectly fine with the little sips of wine that I had left. The scallops worked best with the Côtes du Rhone blanc, as I would have expected. However, the Falanghina did not do badly. The Pinot was a bit big, but not bad. I’d also think that a nice round French Chardonnay, from a Chablis to a Montrachet would work, as well as a Sancerre, or other Sauvignon Blanc, would work well too. The Tagliatelle was perfect (as was the “sample” that had been provided earlier). The short-ribs were perfect, right up there with Chef Vincent’s version, but not quite as sweet. As with all pasta dishes, that we have tasted at NOCA, this cooked to perfection. I tasted bits of everyone else’s mains also. The duck breast was excellent, though I’d place it behind the duck confit appetizer by just a hair. Again, the steak frites was outstanding. My memory could be slipping, but I think that the frites were just a bit thicker. I asked my chef/author, who had had this dish, along with me before, but she said that they were the exact same – looked thicker to me, but they were across the table. The Pork Tenderloin, a dish that I had been vacillating over was perfect and tender. Unfortunately, I only got a tiny taste of the pork belly confit and almost lost my hand getting that. The molecule that I secured was a knockout, but I would have liked to have had at least a taste. After sharing my scallops, I do not feel this was genteel behavior from my dining companion, but then she was in a feeding frenzy, so I should have just been patient and prayed for left-overs. There were a couple of desserts, after the cotton candy (cherry that night), but other than the Gelato Trio (vanilla, chocolate and coffee), I only remember that the other was a chocolate dish with “salted” ice cream. Since I had only ordered decaf, I was not taking notes on these. The tastes that I had were wonderful, though I was full. I had hoped that Rubee (from an earlier NOCA post) had given more details on the chocolate dish, but she was possibly as full as I was. After just over three hours of wonderful dining, we left with our Chocolate-chip short-bread pieces and moaned all the way home. I do have to admit that I sneaked a copita of Port (Taylor-Fladgate 20 year Tawny) and a Cuban, when I returned to my patio. While NOCA has a very nice dessert wine list, I cannot imagine trying to leave in a safe and proper fashion, having a glass atop the wonderful wines, that we had already experienced. That is one thing that I have to say for fine restaurants in a resort, providing that one is STAYING at that resort – you get to enjoy the dessert wine list. Two notable additions to the white wine list are: ‘05 Bachelet-Monnet Les Referts Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru (Chardonnay) ‘07 Bieler Coteux D’Aix-en-Provence Rosé (if you have not had this wine, you really need to try a bottle. You will never be afraid of “pink wine” again. Wonderfully food friendly and too often overlooked for the “usual suspects.” Do yourself a favor.) As mentioned, the half-bottle selection has been added, and is greatly appreciated. Next time you are there, don’t wear yourself out trying to find the one, quintessential single bottle to go with everything. Try the recommendations from the half-bottle list and mix-n-match. To me, it’s the next best thing to a full sommelier’s pairing and often overlooked by all but the most wine-centric folk (read: “wine geeks,” like me). For a party of five, with appetizer and additionally soup-courses, plus three bottles of higher-end wines and several glasses of Sauternes came to just over $600 with generous tips on the full fare. While this is not cheap, by any estimation, it IS a great value and the entire meal was greatly appreciated by our table. The pacing was without flaw. The time to dine (3 hours and slight change) reflected the number of courses. The closest that I can come to a deduction was a busser asking if the partially consumed Foie Gras Torchon could be removed. As I had been late in ordering the Sauternes, this diner was going more slowly, until it arrived. After that question (he did not seize the plate, but asked), the dish was left alone, until the arrival of the Sauternes arrived, then finished. BTW, that diner really appreciated the way that the wine complimented the liver, as did I. Nothing was missed and no server hung over the table. Even with a very full house, everything ran like that proverbial "clockwork." Some say “third time’s the charm.” In our case, we’ve been charmed on all three visits. I was gladdened that our “guests” from visit two suggested that we dine at NOCA again, and also wanted to introduce their daughter to this restaurant. We’ve seen some very nice changes, and in a very short time. All have been for the better. I cannot wait for the next trip. Unfortunately, we’ll be in the air for a bit, so it will probably be after the Holidays. Let the steakhouses sprout, like mushrooms after a Spring rain. I’d dine at NOCA, even if it was flanked by Mastro’s, Morton’s, Ruth’s, Craftsteak, Bourbonsteak and a dozen others. Links to previous threads: http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/576000 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/567602 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/573712 http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/557505 Hunt

first time in vegas - restaurant recs

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 21:57:21 GMT

While visiting sister Janet, hubby and I had breakfast at the newest outpost of Original Pancake House, located in the just opened Aliante Station Casino. That's waaayyy out there (my theory is that Janet knew she'd miss Reno so decided to get a house that seems like it is halfway there :-)) so probably more of interest to locals than visitors in most cases... Service had some minor glitches, which one would expect from a place only open two weeks, but our server was clearly a long-time professional and fixed them all quickly with a smile and an apology. Have to say, perhaps I ordered wrong, but the food didn't wow me. Hubby is still recovering from a serious illness, so just had Cream of Wheat, nothing to comment on there...I was tempted by the corn beef hash and should have tried it, but instead was suckered in by the menu comment that the potato pancakes were 'famous'. Well, I hope not: they were as flavorless as I've ever had, slightly undercooked, and probably had more flour than potato. The accompanying sour cream also managed to have no taste (it didn't even taste sour, it was very strange...) but the applesauce was good, with large chunks of apple. OJ was fresh squeezed and the bacon is of decent quality and a huge side order (four large pieces). Total with wheat toast for hubby and coffee for both of us was around $30, including a generous tip in honor of the holiday and the fact that our server was on the ball, even if hostess, busboys and runners weren't. BTW, other than the buffet and Dunkin Donuts, Original Pancake House is pretty much the only game in town for breakfast at the Aliante Casino, and it is none too big so go early or be prepared to wait. I would go back, but mostly because it is so close to sister's house, in an area with almost no restaurants of any type. Or did I miss some hidden gems on the menu?

Ghetto Mexican places in Phoenix/Tempe?

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 19:14:31 GMT

bump for me favorite place in all of phoenix. everyone who likes meat must eat here and order the parillada.

Do You Love Tamales, Arizona?

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 17:00:24 GMT

Last December, I was lucky to attend the First Annual Tamale Festival in Somerton AZ. It was a fantastic experience for someone who loves tamales. Let's face it, most restaurant tamales aren't very good. Most of us also don't have relatives who home make tamales. And even if grandma or auntie make a couple batches every holiday, we usually only get to try one or two different kinds each year. At the festival last year, there were over 20 different home vendors selling their wares. Some folks had two or three different kinds. You could buy individual tamales, combo plates, and tamales by the dozen or half dozen. The proceeds help fund scholarships to ASU for first generation college attendees. Anyway, I just learned that Somerton will be hosting another tamale fest this year, on Saturday, December 13. Here's a link to their website: http://somertontamalefestival.com/index.html The website also includes a link to a blogpost that I did about last year's festival. I have also posted a notice about the festival at mmm-yoso, along with some musings about the complex symbolism of this traditional dish: http://mmm-yoso.typepad.com/mmmyoso/2008/11/tamales-a-festival-a-symbol.html Anyway, if you love tamales, a trip down to SW AZ (Somerton is a few miles south of Yuma) on December 13 will be well worth the trouble. The festival will go on from 11 am to 10 pm, but for best selection, I wouldn't arrive right at the end. ed

Frediani's Ristorante & Pizzeria in Henderson, NV

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 11:09:29 GMT

mkasper - thanks for the information. I am just finalizing my next trip To Do list and shifted Frediani's to this Friday night.

LOTUS OF SIAM - MENU SUGGESTIONS

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 04:35:28 GMT

Well, I've been there a few times. Everyone raves about the crispy rice and sour sausage appetizer (Nam Kao Tod), and it's pretty good, but I have my own favorites. I really like the Tom Kah Kai (soup w/sliced chicken, mushrooms, coconut milk, etc). For a main, I think the Nua Sao Renu (charbroiled beef with tamarind sauce) is a knockout dish. It's pictured on this page: http://www.saipinchutima.com/lotusspecial.htm Definitely skip the lunch buffet.

Dinner at Spago in Vegas- how to dress???

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 02:44:35 GMT

Are you sure you are looking? I see at least 12 wines under $56 and dozens of decently priced wine. http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/restaurants/menu.php?id=53 Are you sure you know what to look for? Because it doesn't match your claims. You say that Barera should not be $60+. It's not it's $55. It may not be worth it, but it is less than you claim.

Tucson coffee & Tubac anything new

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 02:18:34 GMT

Thanks, We'll give those estabilishments a try. I always enjoy trying something new .

Bar Charlie: Spectacular (Las Vegas)

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 23:56:22 GMT

I was invited to join QAW and a friend @ Bar Charlie for a 'Pre Holiday' dinner this week. QAW had consulted w/ the Manager and Sommelier in putting together an evening that I won't soon forget. I don't know how anything could compare to the mastery of our chefs and the dreams and visions of Chef Hiroo Nagahara who was hand picked by Charlie Trotter for his amazing talent to visualize and present a story on each plate. Our evening began w/ a glass of H. Billiot Brut Reserve Champagne, (France) We began our "kaiseki" tasting with a Japanese Snapper with Black Grapes & Celery. The snapper was so very fresh the crisp clean taste of the celery and the sweetness of the grape along with the dryness of the champage was enough to whet our palate for what was to follow! This first course was the perfect start to prepare us for the flavors to come. The Sommelier then poured us each a glass of 2003 Jon. Jos. Prum Riesling Auslese "Wehlener Sonnenuhr" (Mosel, Germany) This was a nice pairing for our second course which was a Shime Saba with Olive and Citrus. This dish which sounds so simple was very intricate. The kalamata olive juice was reduced to tiny gelee cubes along side the fresh 'saba' and the citrus was made into a 'chip' the saba skin was dehydrated and spinkled on top to give this dish a wonderful flavor......it was absolutely beautiful! We then moved on to a dish all 3 of us proclaimed our 'favorite so far'...Chef Nagahara called this 'Oyster on a Beach" which came to him in a dream! This dish was a Barron Point Oyster with Horseradish granules (representing sand), Hops Amazake & Razor Clams. Everything about this dish was fresh, and titalating. I love the fact it told a story. It brought meaning and connection to the composed plate in front of us! We were then served a Spanish Blue Fin Tuna with Ume Boshi & Seawater. This was a nice continuation from the previous course with a play on Seaweed and ocean flavors. The Reisling brought out the flavors and freshness of the Tuna. We then moved on to a little richer more flavorful dish with the same Blu Fin Tuna...this time a Tuna Tartar...with hints of sesame served with Hijiki Seaweed and Daikon. On this dish the Seaweed was formed into a tuile and deep friend like a potato chip...we loved this. Chef Nagahara gave us a few extra chips to enjoy as the salty flavor and the wine worked so well together. We then moved on to an Ocean Trout with Pearled Barley and Fennel. The flavors on this dish were very richt...we all wanted to lick the plate! We were given a spoon to enjoy the melded flavors of the liquid remaining on our plates. The Sommelier then opened and poured a bottle of 2001 Allegrini "La Poja" (Veneto, Italy) Next came a hand picked Diver Sea Scallop with Hearts of Palm and Sesame. The scallop was seared and was rich and meaty. We learned how the scallops were hand picked and were shipped to the restaurant 'live'. This dish was playful and fun...this was a great transition to the second half of our meal. We then moved on to one of the richest, heartiest dishes of our meal...it was a Sushi Rice Risotto with Santa Barbara Sea Urchin and Hon Shimeji Mushrooms. The Sea Urchin was so fresh...the chefs were coming in from Restaurant Charlie to look at it and smell it! This was the freshest sweetest Sea Urchin I have ever experienced.....it was a nice coupling along with the earthiness of the mushrooms. Then we had Seared Hamachi Belly with Ponzu and Soy. A very simple presentation....the flavors were so distinct and the fish so buttery rich...nothing else was needed. This was a 'perfect' plate! Then came a Crispy Pork Belly (seared) with Quinoa and Apples. The rich fattiness of the Pork played into the sweetness of the apple and the naturalness of the Quinoa. It was beautiful...another 'favorite' ! Our last dish before the lighter sweeter finish to the evening was a Elysian Fields Lamb Rack with Manchego Cheese and Lamb Shoulder, it was rich, hearty and wonderful. A perfect dish for the Season and entrance into the Holiday Season. The lamb was cooked a perfect 'pink'. To cleanse our plates we were served an intermezzo of Pomegranate Sorbet with Persimmon & Candied Pecans. I not only loved the flavors of this dish, sweet and tart... The colors too were amazing. It reminded me of the 2008 Summer Hermes collection of Bright Oranges and Pinks. For our dessert tasting we began with a Bottle of 2002 Dr. Loosen Rieslin Eiswien "Bernkasteler Lay" (Mosel, Germany)...very reminiscent of an 'ice wine'. The wine was a nice compliment to our first dessert course: Apple Confit Tart with Triple Creme & Sherry Caramel Ice Cream. This was a nice Fall offering. I would have liked this in larger form to serve to my guests at our Thanksgiving Day meal. We then moved on to a Steamed Kabocha (Squash) with smoked Sultana Raisins and Sherry Granita. Another festive, fall dessert which would have been perfect to grace the Thanksgiving Table. The squash wasn't too sweet.... the flavors of the raisins and the granita brought out the depth of the Kabocha and united this dish. Our last and most decadent dessert was a Baked Chocolate Ganache with Cilantro Phyllo & Rasberry Sorbet. The flavors of the cilantro in this dessert married the chocolate and Rasberry. I am not sure how to describe the experience at Bar Charlie... I was in awe my first visit back in August. If possible I am even more impressed with the Talents and Conceptual Vision of Chef Nagahara and the other Chefs who educated and entertained us during the most memorable meal I have enjoyed. I didn't know it was possible to top my first experience @ Bar Charlie....Chef Nagahara didn't dissapoint. This was an amazing evening and a perfect way to kick off the Holiday season! Great Friends and Great Food!

Phoenix metro area dining

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 23:51:42 GMT

I agree with the two previous replies. However, I feel the advent of the high-end steakhouses does not bode well for the future. We lost unique restaurants to a few of these. The Arizona Kitchen at the Wigwam just closed its doors, nodding to their newish Red's Steakhouse. I have nothing against steakhouse, pre se, though am less a fan of them. I'll seek out other options, when traveling, though did include one in a recent trip to La Jolla, and was delighted. I just look around and see individual restaurants closing, or having to close, to meet some MBA's idea of a the bottom line. I fear that a critical mass is near for this "one-trick pony," the high-end steakhouse. I will admit that they do seem to be spread around the landscape and Phoenix Metro has a very broad landscape. Maybe there IS room for a few more. Still, there are some very good ,to great, individual restaurants that fill in the blanks, plus some outstanding restaurants located in some of the resorts. Though it's changing, the dining scene in the PHX Metro area is alive and well, but it seems to have a case of the hiccups. Hunt PS, I'll be interested to see how these big $ steakhouses do, with the current economy. Most were planned, when things were still pretty good. Only time will tell.

Dal Toro in the Palazzo LV

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 22:24:56 GMT

Dal Toro just started serving breakfast! It is a wonderful, energetic, fun spot for a 'very good' breakfast. Not quite on the lines of a Bouchon as you are sitting looking @ the Lamborghini's.....the food was quite good. They just started running a breakfast special for $12.95 which incldes coffee, juice and a brekfast entree. I stopped in this past week,,,,it was raining and gloomy. I sat at the bar which has windows to the strip...I ordered the eggs benedict which was served on a fresh bagette along w/ a parmeasen cream sauce. It was decadent and wonderful. It was a perfect compliment to the weather. I would love to go back and try dinner at Dal Toro. The bar would be a fun place to sit, enjoy a pasta and watch a game on one of the huge flat screen TV's. I will definitely be back!

Advice on Santa Fe: Cafe Pasqual, Geronimo, The Compound, etc

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 21:49:25 GMT

I have to laugh at this though. Someone I know very well went to Santa Fe recently to take some much needed rest and relaxation. She stayed at La Posada and spent 3 hours at the spa before going to Nostrani. She was looking forward to an enjoyable meal at one of her favorite restaurants. Upon entering the restaurant she was asked to go into the washroom and clean herself of what was left from her spa experience. She does not wear perfume, ever, but her clean spa scent somehow offended the restaurant. She knows their policy about perfume and was aghast at the nerve of the manager in this particular case.... Fascinating.

Thanksgiving in ABQ or Santa Fe

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 21:01:16 GMT

I had Thanksgiving dinner again this year at Fuego in La Posada. They renovated this year but Thanksgiving was great again. They had a set menu of four courses and carved a Whole Turkey... At every table. It was great, just like at home as you could pick what you wanted, dark meat light meat, etc... but no mess. I will be back again next year.

Las Vegas...Your Favs for 3 Days Only for First Timer

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 19:55:21 GMT

Thanks. I heard N9ne was excellent!

Advice for one Vegas Dinner

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 19:13:42 GMT

How about Bouchon? I ate there for the first time a few months ago and I can't wait to return.

Denver Pizza

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 16:58:07 GMT

I definitely think Marco's hands-on approach sets him apart. He is clearly passionate about what he is doing and has passed that along to the staff. I think the wings would have impressed me more if I hadn't read so many over-the-top descriptions of their deliciousness beforehand and instead just let the dish do a "sneak attack" on me with its subtle flavors. I would like to mention again that Proto's has a new location in Broomfield (287 exit from Hwy 36) near the new Events Center. Please come support them so I don't have to drive to Boulder or Lafayette for my fix! There is free angled parking in front of the place and across the street (and they are near the garage). We have been there several times, but they are not visible from the road and are in an area still under development. The aloft Hotel is not open yet and there don't appear to be that many people living in the condos/apartments either. Both times that I dined at A16 were under Chef Christophe Hille. The current chef Nate Appleman and wine director Shelley Lindgren came to Frasca in Boulder for a special meal in 2006 and I recall having some outstanding meatballs. Shelley runs a top-notch wine program as well. They have a newer spot called SPQR. Not sure if they are splitting their time between the two now or what.

PHX Fresh Swedish Potato Sausage

Sat, 29 Nov 2008 16:24:21 GMT

Update: I ended up getting fresh sausage from Schreiner's. It was a hit, with the 'rents. German Sausage Co. doesn't make it. Von Hanson's and Stanley's Homemade Polish Sausage Co. make it, but, they freeze it, right away. For Christmas, I'm calling both of them to try to have some set aside. Schreiner's freezes theirs, too, but, I caught them before it had frozen. The fresh Polish at Stanley's looked really good. Man, I love sausage, but, I don't think I'd love taking Lipitor!

L & L Hawaiian BBQ, Aurora...thoughts?

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 21:00:10 GMT

I've been to the L&L in Aurora with co-workers and found it to be bland (although it was packed and there were lines out the door). Chicken with plain white rice and cold macaroni salad that is only marginally better than what one would find in the deli case at King Soopers is definitely not worth a drive unless you are already imprisoned in Aurora and can't stomach the idea of one more meal at Panda Express or Mama Alvino's. I had to splash liberal amounts of Sriracha on it for it to have any flavor. I would suggest taking enemies here and forcing them to eat the spam musubi.

good asian in denver?

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 18:26:34 GMT

THIS IS NOT IN THE SAME REALM...BUT FOR DIFFERENT ASIAN...THIS IS ONE TO LOOK UP.... SEOUL KOREAN BBQ SO. HAVANA AT EVANS.... BEAUTIFUL ROOM, GOOD ASIAN BBQ SOMETHING OUT OF THE TRADITIONAL THAI, VIET, CHINESE, JAPANESE...... LUNCH SPECIALS AT $7.95...KILLER TONS OF PUNCHON(SIDE DISH ACCOMPANYMENTS) FRESH AND WONDERFUL!!!!

Nice restaurant in Vegas-decor as important as food

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 18:10:22 GMT

Both of those options sound great! Thanks for the help!

Has anyone ate at George and Sons in Scottsdale?

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 10:08:06 GMT

I'm a fan of George & Sons. We do work lunches there at times. It's still a bit of a hike but worth it. They have a buffet that's actually pretty decent. Also like their Thai Basil chicken & the blackberry jasmine iced tea. While we still hike to China King or Tao Garden (not C-Fu or Best Hong Kong so much anymore) when we want authentic, I'm definitely happy to eat there.

One night in Phoenix??

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 03:17:52 GMT

Both of Hunt's recommendations are good ones. I'd add Noca to the mix for phenomenal food in a bid of a more vibrate atmosphere than Vincent's or T. Cooks. Depending on what you're looking for, of course. There is lots of banter about Noca on this board and their website is www.restaurantnoca.com. Also reviewed on www.ericeatsout.com Have a great trip!

Flagstaff Dining

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 01:22:16 GMT

Here are my recommendations for Flagstaff: Cuvee 928 is one of my favorites. Strictly tapas-size plates at dinner time, but good size lunch plates. I usually order one of the specials off the chalkboard, or if the chef knows I'm coming, he'll make chicken liver pate. Brix is pretty good, although allot at least 90 minutes for lunch and longer for dinner. I would agree that it is on the high end, price-wise, in Flagstaff. My favorite Thai place is Pato Thai on San Francisco next to the Monte Vista Hotel. Their idea of "medium" hot is a bit hotter than other places in town, so be ready for it. Picazzo's Pizza is part of a small chain with locations throughout Arizona. My favorite pizza is "Fire in the Hole" with pepperoni, red and yellow peppers, and fresh jalapenos. Strombolli's is a college hangout for inexpensive Italian. I like the pastas, so I very seldom order the pizzas, but I know others like them. Corrina is the manager and makes really good tiramisu. Don't like any Chinese food in town. Big Foot Barbecue is also pretty good, although it can be uncomfortably loud sometimes, given the acoustics of being in the basement of the Old Town Shops. It's inexpensive and one of those places where you throw peanut shells on the floor. For sushi, I'm usually at Hiro's or Karma. I'm at Hiro's when I want a good quality, low key experience, and at Karma when I want to "be seen." Karma does have real grated wasabi, though, the only place in Flag that has that. I'm occasionally at Sushi Fuji when I'm over on the west side, but I don't really go out of my way to go there. It's pretty pedestrian. The Pho Loc Restaurant is a new Vietnamese restaurant in the Western Hills Motel on Route 66. Nothing great on the ambiance scale, but solid food. Definitely a hole in the wall, though, and inexpensive. I'm curious about the new Vietnamese place, AZPho in the same shopping center as Sushi Fuji, behind Wal-Mart. Haven't tried it yet, but will do so soon. Hope that helps!

Vegas special night - narrowing it down...

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 19:14:31 GMT

We settled with Picasso Pretty reasonable and reviews favorable My review in...15 days

Spending Thanksgiving weekend in Vegas, recommendations?

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 04:47:09 GMT

Besides Bouchon, I haven't much decided on many spots to visit. My friend eagerly wants me to try Daniel Bouloud's burger at his restaurant at the Wynn. What say you good chowhounders? I'm willing to spend a little extra for something worthwhile, but you won't catch me heading to Joel Robuchon or anything like that.