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swfood

  • Member since 2007
  • Total posts 56
  • Total comments 65

Has anyone been to Perry Street recently? It's in a consideration set for dinner tomorrow. Have a reservation but think we want something less expensive, unless people have been blown away by the overall meal and experience. Might opt to do the bar (or something else) instead.

 
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swfood commented 3 years ago

Have you tried Publix? I saw it a few weeks ago at the one in Emerald Isle (in addition to a relatively large kosher section) so perhaps they stock at the locations in the Triangle.

 

We are planning a trip to the bird sanctuary in a few weeks and will have an out of town (New York City) family member with us (husband, myself and a 6 & 8 yo) and would love to eat somewhere on the way. If I recall from a previous visit there was very little besides fast food on the way, and would like to make a stop moderately more interesting. We are happy to take a modest detour--and anything somewhat "special" would be good--e.g. even a local burger/hot dog stand or BBQ. If there are any other food related stops (ice cream) that would be great too. Thanks!

We are planning a trip to the bird sanctuary in a few weeks and will have an out of town (New York City) family member with us (husband, myself and a 6 & 8 yo) and would love to eat somewhere on the way. If I recall from a previous visit there was very little besides fast food on the way, and wou...

 
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Hello! We are returning for a visit to NYC (both grew up here, lived here for many adult years and moved away 12 years ago). Will be in the city this time with our kids (6.5 and 9) and are looking for a suggestion for a fun meal in the east 30s/50s---generally open to a range of cuisine.

(Location for this particular meal is somewhat "fixed"--meeting up with others--two adults--and that geographic range works for all, even if not the "best" for dining options.

Thanks!

 
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swfood commented 4 years ago

Funnily enough, we are in Raleigh so will have the same issue. And yep, it's the same, one and only service provider (honestly, how can that be)?! Initially, I *had* been at least somewhat excited about the range. At least to start out, we aren't sure how much (if) we wanted to redo the kitchen but figured we would make good use of it before making any larger decisions about layout etc. Feeling like this will be a keep the fingers crossed and hope it works situation...

 
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swfood commented 4 years ago

Thanks all; a kitchen remodel down the line isn't out of the question and from an inspection standpoint it passed muster. We are going back in early next week and I'll double check model (strangely enough when we were there I was more concerned about the dimensions of the fridge as I wanted to bring our current (newish) model.

 

We are considering purchasing a home that has a Viking double oven/range; the unit is likely about 20+ years old. Is there anything we should ask sellers about maintenance or performance (it tested fine during the quick general inspection)? Anything we should plan for in terms of routine service... the expectation of useful life....Thanks!

 
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swfood commented 4 years ago

overall looks promising: some items seemed like Aldi, others were similar to IKEA (toys, accessories etc).

 
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swfood commented 4 years ago

Have to agree with the report above, I only got to do an abbreviated stop at the one in Kinston, NC (it was already late, we were on our way to the beach with 2 kids--who stayed in car with husband and dog while I did a *quick* check). I mainly checked it out for the store experience vs. a full shop but WOW! I can't wait to go back.

From a retailing/merchandising/marketing perspective they somehow make something so basic different but smart and intuitive. They have huge aisles so the store felt empty and easy to shop but I'd say it was average crowds (granted this might not be the case in more populated areas). Some cool things: they group 5 items that might work together in a recipe up-front and discount them, have a section of the case for "specials." Also, loved the mixture of private label + name brand. The private label stuff had the cool European look (vs. Aldi which just often looks sad & generic). I look forward to going back shortly! I did get some pretzel rolls which were delicious (some veggies too--competitively priced and good quality). I picked up their circular and they have cello packed snails, mussels etc. They also have a Master of Wine leading the wine department so imagine some good value selection there too.

Have to agree with the report above, I only got to do an abbreviated stop at the one in Kinston, NC (it was already late, we were on our way to the beach with 2 kids--who stayed in car with husband and dog while I did a *quick* check). I mainly checked it out for the store experience vs. a full s...

 

We lived in Manhattan years ago and have since moved away (we get back to town about 1x per year).

Husband and I are having dinner tonight and am narrowing down options, our lead options are:
*Gabriel Kruether bar
*Brushstroke
*Piora
*Per Se (lounge/walk-in)

....and after reading here this morning now thinking about Per Se walk-in lounge. That said, husband wasn't planning on bring a jacket so not sure if that is too formal--(note: we would dress well just not to that degree). On a future visit, we might want to do the full experience so not sure if sampling the lounge is a good (or bad idea)

I realize there are location (and other) inconsistencies with this list, but we want great food and a good experience (ok, who wouldn't say this). We are staying midtown east, but that really isn't a huge consideration. We normally like to have a meal and then wander around, grab a drink/coffee etc---so typically we are drawn to Flatiron and below---but we are open to changing the "norm."

Thanks!!

We lived in Manhattan years ago and have since moved away (we get back to town about 1x per year).

Husband and I are having dinner tonight and am narrowing down options, our lead options are:
*Gabriel Kruether bar
*Brushstroke
*Piora
*Per Se (lounge/walk-in)

....and after reading here...

 
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I found a recipe for granola (from CH, actually) that is a big hit with our family and I'd love to adapt it (or part of a batch) into granola bars. Any general tips or techniques on how to do this---is it extra of a certain ingredient (e.g. honey), placing in fridge? In the past, I followed some "bar" recipes and never really liked them. FWIW, they don't even need to be really "tight" (e.g. like a store-bought one) just some structure (sorry, not sure if I'm describing that so well)

 
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Looking for some alternative brunch "vehicles" for lox. We are having some people over, on Sunday and our plan was to initially pick bagels up that morning. With the impending snowstorm (we are in NC, likely not that much but things are basically grounding to a standstill) I'm not sure what we can get Sunday. I'll often eat lox on pumpernickel, as seaweed wraps and with certain other crackers...but now wondering if anyone has other suggestions (given time of day not sure if those will work)--perhaps even for a homemade bread. (By the time I thought ahead about even having "basic" supermarket bagels all that was left were some fairly sweet flavors.) Thanks!

Looking for some alternative brunch "vehicles" for lox. We are having some people over, on Sunday and our plan was to initially pick bagels up that morning. With the impending snowstorm (we are in NC, likely not that much but things are basically grounding to a standstill) I'm not sure what we ca...

 
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swfood commented 5 years ago

thumbs up! We just ate there and loved it, especially the mustard sauce, Mac n cheese and strawberry shortcake. We frequently go to some of the eastern NC spots but dukes was much more my style. Well worth a very short detour. As an added bonus our kids got balloon animals.

 

We will be going to WDW in a few weeks (with a 4.5 & 6yo). Staying at the Polynesian. I have a bunch of hard to procure reservations at the signature restaurants but not really looking forward to spending a fortune on medicore food. Any recommendations on which Disney restaurants are the best? Others nearby? I've been reading reviews, checking out forums on Disney boards but realize I should also look outside the bubble. TIA

 
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I picked up an enormous basket--10+lbs-- of bargain "ice cream peaches" (e.g. some turning overripe) at the farmers market earlier today. I was pleasantly surprised at how many still aren't quite ripe are in great condition but I still have TONS that I need to deal with quickly and efficiently.

Thinking of--
Freezing "as is" (I've read a quick blanch, remove skins is best...other thoughts)?
Ice Cream
Yogurt
Muffins/Bread
Chocolate covered/frozen

Other ideas?! I don't have the supplies for canning/jam on hand

Thanks!

I picked up an enormous basket--10+lbs-- of bargain "ice cream peaches" (e.g. some turning overripe) at the farmers market earlier today. I was pleasantly surprised at how many still aren't quite ripe are in great condition but I still have TONS that I need to deal with quickly and efficiently. ...

 
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My husband and I will have a very short time in NYC next month and are likely going to be able to get in one special meal. We have always loved nice lunches and are leaning this way, however the way our schedules are working out I our best option might be doing this meal well past the "traditional" lunch hour and making a 2pm (or last available). Thinking of trying Gabriel Kreuther (though welcome to other ideas). In general, are there disadvantages to going in at the end of lunch--rushed service? kitchen getting ready for dinner service etc? TIA!

My husband and I will have a very short time in NYC next month and are likely going to be able to get in one special meal. We have always loved nice lunches and are leaning this way, however the way our schedules are working out I our best option might be doing this meal well past the "traditiona...

 
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I am making meals to drop off for others (new baby etc). I will make in advance and family will reheat later. I am looking for some new ideas-typically, I'll do a chili (beef, bean chicken), hearty soup, enchiladas etc. Thanks!

 
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swfood commented 6 years ago

Agree with recommendations so far--especially Ruddy Duck, Big Oak and Island Grille.

Other ideas- MHC- Circa 81 (tapas) and Dank Burrito (quick service but excellent and a great option for a fast meal...same owners as Circa 81).
Aqua (Beaufort)
Amos Mosquitoes (AB)

 
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swfood commented 6 years ago

Thanks for the feedback. Guess what? It was probably one of the better batches of this bread! Next time when cooking with a mini-sous chef I'll make sure to have everything prepped ahead.

 

I was making banana chocolate chip bread (with the "assistance" of my 3yo) and it wasn't until I was adding the mixture to the loaf pan that I realized I had omitted the sugar. Added the sugar in and re-mixed. I've already given the family heads up that this may not turn out but curious what if any difference we might expect (taste/texture etc). TIA.

 
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I've sliced the brisket for our Rosh Hashannah dinner (cooked and cooled from yesterday). It's now soaking in the juices. Rather then ditch the solids in the "discard solids" step I've set them aside...Is there anything worth the effort with this veggie/fruit combo? TIA!

 
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swfood commented 6 years ago

What town are you staying in? We frequently go to the Crystal Coast with a 3 and 5 year old so have some suggestions below. Most of there are in the AB/Beaufort/Morehead City area. IMO, Emerald Isle doesn't have as much on offer. In general, I think many of the traditional restaurants lean too much toward the fried seafood variety (or pay big premium for grilled) that said they are generally good. Pretty much all restaurants will have several fish choices available.

*Circa 81 (tapas in Morehead City)
*Aqua (Beaufort)
*Beaufort Grocery
*Chefs 105
*Sanitary (yes, the classic/"tourist trap" but good)
*Big Oak (Salter Path, no seating drive-in/beach "shack")
*Amos Mosquito's in AB (don't be turned off by the name or some of their "gimmicks". It's very popular and they don't take reservations. need to get there early for a table, especially outside)

For meals at home, we typically get fresh seafood from Capt Willis in Salter Path (but that's b/c it closest to where we stay). I think most of the markets will have good fresh & local options. That said, not ALL of it is so just ask to make sure.

The Friendly Market in Morehead city has some good prepared pies/foods. They have a farmers market component too, but I wasn't all that impressed by the quality of what they had on offer.

The Aquarium is very much worthwhile, especially on a rainy day. AB and Emerald Isle each have nice playgrounds. The on in AB has sprinklers. A trip to Shackelford Banks is worthwhile.

In terms of New Bern, we recently ate at Persimmons, right on the water and were very happy.

What town are you staying in? We frequently go to the Crystal Coast with a 3 and 5 year old so have some suggestions below. Most of there are in the AB/Beaufort/Morehead City area. IMO, Emerald Isle doesn't have as much on offer. In general, I think many of the traditional restaurants lean too mu...

 

I have a decent amount of cooked chicken leftover (from various meals/sources but essentially all pieces of breast meat). Normally I'll do chicken salad, soup/stew, enchiladas but we are in the mood for something else drawing a blank (and most of the recipes I've come across all seem to be along the lines of my standbys). Any suggestions? TIA

I made beef stew last night (for dinner tonight). Towards the end I realized I had forgotten to cover the pot, and only did so at the very end (last 40-60 min). Other then needing extra time to simmer does this impact overall taste or other? It's possiblle I've done this in the past too (make stew once each winter) and it's always come out very tasty. TIA

 
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swfood commented 7 years ago

Thanks, this is what I thought. Oh well, better now then a few more ingredients in...

 

Am making sugar cookies and without thinking I mixed all dry ingredients (flour, sugar etc) together (instead of creaming sugar + butter first). Do I need to start over or is this something that can work? TIA

 
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swfood commented 7 years ago

Love the "Tv dinner" idea, great suggestion. Thanks!