113 Back River Neck Rd
Essex, MD 21221
(410) 687-7733
Pizza Johns, even if located in a the hood, has become my favorite pizza place here in the Baltimore area. In fact I travel 15 minutes in and 15 minutes back just to get me some good pizza. This place is one of the most authentic places around the area. None of the yucky too thick crust stuff, and none of over done toppings that leak oil from side. They even offer a do it yourself package, where you buy the crust and some of the toppings for you to make at home.
I have tried such package and it taste just like the one in the store.
It doesnt matter when you go, the pizza is always perfect.
as my "invisible" readers know, I am picky when it comes to pizza. Growing up in Italy, definitive trained my palate to the original stuff.
I have not had Pizza hut in years, I am not that desperate...even though I must say if I am in the mood I might eat it.
Unfortunately, this is the only location, I wish there was one by me.
The restaurant per se its very nice, family style ambiance, well lit, very clean.
The service is friendly and on top of things.
A good selection of Italian wines is available for purchase to acompany your pizza.
Overall rating= 10.
This is the place to take your family for a low key evening.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Monday, August 09, 2010
Gibby's seafood
Towson, MD
Gibby's is a nice little seafood merchant. They carry pretty much a little bit of everything, from the giant crabb legs to the deviled eggs.
This little place is not to be underestimated.
They food is extremely savory. They make everything in house, including their soups and deviled eggs.
I usually order steamed crabs to go. They even provide you with the thick heavy duty paper for free.
Their prices are extremely competitive and they are located right next to a wine store....what more convenient than that?
Gibby's is a nice little seafood merchant. They carry pretty much a little bit of everything, from the giant crabb legs to the deviled eggs.
This little place is not to be underestimated.
They food is extremely savory. They make everything in house, including their soups and deviled eggs.
I usually order steamed crabs to go. They even provide you with the thick heavy duty paper for free.
Their prices are extremely competitive and they are located right next to a wine store....what more convenient than that?
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
Blue Sea Grill
614 Water StreetBaltimore, MD 21202
(410) 837-7300
So this place has been closed down since I last went to it. Here is probably why.
This place is hip and sexy, total eye candy, but that is pretty much all it is.
The place is gourgous, it gives the impression of being under water with an appeal of a NYC extablisment.
The service was phenomenal, the waitress on top of everything, extremely attentive.
The only problem was the food, it did not came remotely to par with the aura of the place.
We were three and order 3 appetizers and 3 entrees....of all the food only one I would consider delicious, all the other food was overthought and the flavors just too complicated that created an array of messy notes. For the one entree we like, we complimented the chef, who came out to greet us. Nice Italian guy, wich whom I bonded a little since I grew up in Italy, but I was quite disturbed his culinary grills were not quite at par.
The cocktails were perfect! Gotta love a bartender that puts together a mean dirty martini James Bond style.
Honestly if you are a foodie, I would not waste my time and money on this place. I was highly dissapointed!!
If the food sucks, you are going down.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Kyodai - Rotatin sushi bar
If you are hungry and you need to be fed immediately, this is the place to go.
Kyodai is what I consider as instant gratification.
Is like a MacDonalds for Sushi, in and out we go. Except with way nicer food choices (unless you are a burgerphile)
Kyodai is the only rotating sushi bar in Baltimore, and it is perfect for people that want to try something new by looking at it first and pulling it off the conveyor belt.
Yes I said conveyor belt!! The way it works is you sit down at the counter and sushi plates are transported on conveyor belts around the table to multiple people.
Put this way, is like picking up your luggage at the airport.
Different color plates mean different prices.
The sushi is decent, but nothing extraordinary. I noticed that the choices on the conveyor belts is mostly rolls, nice rolls, but still rolls. Crab rolls, spicy tuna roll, rainbow rolls, salmon roll, tempural roll, california roll, cucumber roll... ok you get the point.The good thing is that you can also order lets say inari roll or anything else off the menu. The taste was fairly good, but the execution and final appearance of the sushi was not as fine-tuned as other places I've been to.
Everything tasted very fresh. The other cool thing about about the rotation system is that you can monitor how much you spend, as different color dishes mean differest cost. With the same token it can get pricey if you pick a couple of the expensive items and you are a big eater.
Only negatives are: large crowds on Friday nights, and no liquor other than sake is serve.
PS: You can park in the garage for free. Early reservation is recommended during busy hours.
Kyodai is what I consider as instant gratification.
Is like a MacDonalds for Sushi, in and out we go. Except with way nicer food choices (unless you are a burgerphile)
Kyodai is the only rotating sushi bar in Baltimore, and it is perfect for people that want to try something new by looking at it first and pulling it off the conveyor belt.
Yes I said conveyor belt!! The way it works is you sit down at the counter and sushi plates are transported on conveyor belts around the table to multiple people.
Put this way, is like picking up your luggage at the airport.
Different color plates mean different prices.
The sushi is decent, but nothing extraordinary. I noticed that the choices on the conveyor belts is mostly rolls, nice rolls, but still rolls. Crab rolls, spicy tuna roll, rainbow rolls, salmon roll, tempural roll, california roll, cucumber roll... ok you get the point.The good thing is that you can also order lets say inari roll or anything else off the menu. The taste was fairly good, but the execution and final appearance of the sushi was not as fine-tuned as other places I've been to.
Everything tasted very fresh. The other cool thing about about the rotation system is that you can monitor how much you spend, as different color dishes mean differest cost. With the same token it can get pricey if you pick a couple of the expensive items and you are a big eater.
Only negatives are: large crowds on Friday nights, and no liquor other than sake is serve.
PS: You can park in the garage for free. Early reservation is recommended during busy hours.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Matsuri Japanese Restaurant
1105 S Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 752-8561
I first bumped into Matsuri's sushi at an event at the Hilton in Baltimore (NAFT). I fell in love and I had to have it again.
The lady serving at the time, thought I had gone crazy, I even gave her a hug and said the best sushi I have tried outside of Japan!!
I am not kidding!!
Other than the freshness of the fish, the number one important ingredient is rice and Matsuri's rice is phenomenal.
So I finally made it back to Matsuri, located in a very happening area of Baltimore (Federal Hill). Tons to do within walking distance.
The place reminds you of a little sushi bar in Tokyo, the tv playing Japanese cooking shows, all they need is Kareoke right there and there!
The service is delighfull and if you sit at the bar, as I often do (just to admire the art of sushi making) the chefs are super friendly.
The food super fresh just like a high end sushi bar in Japan and possibly even better (yes I just said that).
They have cooked food as well, like teriyaki and even soups, their menu can fulfill almost any appetite, including non sushi lovers.
Bill Tien, (owner) is really a phenomenal guy! I am kinda glad they do not have Kareoke, because if they did they would have to kick me out every night.
Ambiance : 7 stars
Service : 8 stars
Food: 10+ stars
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 752-8561
I first bumped into Matsuri's sushi at an event at the Hilton in Baltimore (NAFT). I fell in love and I had to have it again.
The lady serving at the time, thought I had gone crazy, I even gave her a hug and said the best sushi I have tried outside of Japan!!
I am not kidding!!
Other than the freshness of the fish, the number one important ingredient is rice and Matsuri's rice is phenomenal.
So I finally made it back to Matsuri, located in a very happening area of Baltimore (Federal Hill). Tons to do within walking distance.
The place reminds you of a little sushi bar in Tokyo, the tv playing Japanese cooking shows, all they need is Kareoke right there and there!
The service is delighfull and if you sit at the bar, as I often do (just to admire the art of sushi making) the chefs are super friendly.
The food super fresh just like a high end sushi bar in Japan and possibly even better (yes I just said that).
They have cooked food as well, like teriyaki and even soups, their menu can fulfill almost any appetite, including non sushi lovers.
Bill Tien, (owner) is really a phenomenal guy! I am kinda glad they do not have Kareoke, because if they did they would have to kick me out every night.
Ambiance : 7 stars
Service : 8 stars
Food: 10+ stars
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Don Gallo Peruvian Restaurant
2728 North Mall Drive, Suite 117
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
757) 431-0005
Category: Latin American
I have learned that there are two types of ethnic restaurants.
The ones where the general masses of americans eat, and the one that mostly the people of the origin of the restaurant eat.
Authenticity doesn't to the customer you are trying to cater, but relates to the proveniance of the food style itself.
If the food is truly authentic the followers will be mostly people that miss their home cooking.
With that said...and I am not Peruvian, I found this place thru Yelp and decided to give it a try.
The parking was extremely easy. The people, true Peruvians, the customers 90% latinos, wich speaks for itself.
Having travelled in latin america most of my life and having Peruvian friends has blessed me with great latin food. And this place blesses the Virginia beach area with some truly authentic Peruvian delicacies.
The lomo saltado is like the country's national dish...this one was delicious. I did not try the grilled chicken, but as other reviews it is on the expensive side, specially since as a Washingtonian/ Baltimorean it goes for less around me.
They even have Chica morada, wich is considered the Peruvian table wine (except is not alcoholic).
The place is clean and service was outstanding and fast.
When you are craving true Peruvian, this is the place to go to in VA beach!
Ambiance : 5 stars
Service : 8 stars
Food: 8 stars
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
757) 431-0005
Category: Latin American
I have learned that there are two types of ethnic restaurants.
The ones where the general masses of americans eat, and the one that mostly the people of the origin of the restaurant eat.
Authenticity doesn't to the customer you are trying to cater, but relates to the proveniance of the food style itself.
If the food is truly authentic the followers will be mostly people that miss their home cooking.
With that said...and I am not Peruvian, I found this place thru Yelp and decided to give it a try.
The parking was extremely easy. The people, true Peruvians, the customers 90% latinos, wich speaks for itself.
Having travelled in latin america most of my life and having Peruvian friends has blessed me with great latin food. And this place blesses the Virginia beach area with some truly authentic Peruvian delicacies.
The lomo saltado is like the country's national dish...this one was delicious. I did not try the grilled chicken, but as other reviews it is on the expensive side, specially since as a Washingtonian/ Baltimorean it goes for less around me.
They even have Chica morada, wich is considered the Peruvian table wine (except is not alcoholic).
The place is clean and service was outstanding and fast.
When you are craving true Peruvian, this is the place to go to in VA beach!
Ambiance : 5 stars
Service : 8 stars
Food: 8 stars
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Roxy Delicatessen
1565 Broadway
New York, NY 10036
(212) 921-3333
Come in hungry!! 'Cause the sandwiches here are HUGE! Probably the biggest sandwiches I have seen in NYC ( I almost feel like I am in Vegas). I have been to plenty delis in the city and this place beats them all. Generally packed due to its famous name and location, but not to worry, usually lines go pretty fast. The pastrami sandwich is to die for, with what it appears to be as much meat as a small calf. Freshly sliced right there in front of your eyes. But wait...when you think they only thing you are getting is meat, think again, the flavors go hand in hand with what made this place famous. I usually get a half sandwich or a full one to eat the rest later. The prices seem absorbitant at first, but honestly for what you get (size and flavor) and the locations (next to Times Square) in my mind you are getting a deal!!
New York, NY 10036
(212) 921-3333
Come in hungry!! 'Cause the sandwiches here are HUGE! Probably the biggest sandwiches I have seen in NYC ( I almost feel like I am in Vegas). I have been to plenty delis in the city and this place beats them all. Generally packed due to its famous name and location, but not to worry, usually lines go pretty fast. The pastrami sandwich is to die for, with what it appears to be as much meat as a small calf. Freshly sliced right there in front of your eyes. But wait...when you think they only thing you are getting is meat, think again, the flavors go hand in hand with what made this place famous. I usually get a half sandwich or a full one to eat the rest later. The prices seem absorbitant at first, but honestly for what you get (size and flavor) and the locations (next to Times Square) in my mind you are getting a deal!!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Go Sushi IV
3 Greenwich Avenue
New York, NY 10014
(212) 366-9272
Who said you cannot have a wonderful healthy lunch that includes sushi as fast as you can have MacDonalds??
Well for those non- believers Go sushi has fresh to go sushi already prepared for you, and if your little heart desires something else, you can always order a bento box that will be prepared in a wink of the eyes.
The selection here is amazing, and the prices affordable compared to other sushi places in NYC (are we kidding). Noodle soups, sushi, tempura, and an array of hot Japanese entrees are available in the menu.
This place is great for lunch or even for a quick dinner. The place is extremely clean and it has a coffee shop type feel.
Honestly if I must choose for the MacDonalds around the corner and Go Sushi, it is an obvious choice to go with the cleaner and tastier choice, unless you are craving a generic burger.
New York, NY 10014
(212) 366-9272
Who said you cannot have a wonderful healthy lunch that includes sushi as fast as you can have MacDonalds??
Well for those non- believers Go sushi has fresh to go sushi already prepared for you, and if your little heart desires something else, you can always order a bento box that will be prepared in a wink of the eyes.
The selection here is amazing, and the prices affordable compared to other sushi places in NYC (are we kidding). Noodle soups, sushi, tempura, and an array of hot Japanese entrees are available in the menu.
This place is great for lunch or even for a quick dinner. The place is extremely clean and it has a coffee shop type feel.
Honestly if I must choose for the MacDonalds around the corner and Go Sushi, it is an obvious choice to go with the cleaner and tastier choice, unless you are craving a generic burger.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Serendipity 3
225 E 60th St
New York, NY 10022
(212) 838-3531
The original location is just a dream come true to a child. The ambiance is fairy tale like big chandelier, elegant yet relaxed. Like the movie Alice of Wonderland...sort of. This location has two floors and it sure packs tons of people. Expect a wait, not just because of the being a famous stablisment by name but for the great variety. I must say one of the best ice cream parlors I ever been to (yes in my entire life!). Every flavor is a piece of heaven, not too overly sugary and flavored just right. The prices are a little high, but you are not only paying for ice cream you are paying for history (well kinda) Definitively a great little place to celebrate a child's birthday!
New York, NY 10022
(212) 838-3531
The original location is just a dream come true to a child. The ambiance is fairy tale like big chandelier, elegant yet relaxed. Like the movie Alice of Wonderland...sort of. This location has two floors and it sure packs tons of people. Expect a wait, not just because of the being a famous stablisment by name but for the great variety. I must say one of the best ice cream parlors I ever been to (yes in my entire life!). Every flavor is a piece of heaven, not too overly sugary and flavored just right. The prices are a little high, but you are not only paying for ice cream you are paying for history (well kinda) Definitively a great little place to celebrate a child's birthday!
The Vegetable Garden
11618 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 468-9301
This place is a true heaven to any vegetarian and an eye opener to a carnivour that is willing to try something new.
Basically a Chinese food restaurant with a vegetarian twist.
I have brought the most picky eaters at the veggie garden and all have always enjoyed the experience.
Some basted in denial when they were told the beef was not real meat.
Food is well prepared and it taste just like regular chinese food.
Not just good to your palate but also good to your the heart.
The places is always packed for lunch time, the service friendly and promp.
Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 468-9301
This place is a true heaven to any vegetarian and an eye opener to a carnivour that is willing to try something new.
Basically a Chinese food restaurant with a vegetarian twist.
I have brought the most picky eaters at the veggie garden and all have always enjoyed the experience.
Some basted in denial when they were told the beef was not real meat.
Food is well prepared and it taste just like regular chinese food.
Not just good to your palate but also good to your the heart.
The places is always packed for lunch time, the service friendly and promp.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Restaurante El Trovador
318 S Broadway
Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 276-6200
If you want authentic Latin American, please notice I did not say Mexican, cuisine, El trovador will take you into Latin America and back to B-More for a delicious authentic meal.
Everything is home made, from the salsa to the tortillitas that are served as a snack.
I have brought Mexican food lovers here and this place has opened up their eyes to the viariate of food within the hispanic culture.
Moderately leaning toward the Salvadonean cuisine, this place will not only entertain your palate with the real deal, such as home made pupusas for a buck to fresh home made sopa de rez or sopa de mariscos, beef stew or seafood soup, wich are extremely popular choices within the latinos that frequesnt this place.
The margaritas will knock you on the floor, a variaty of latin beers are available and so is home made white or red sangria.
This is the place I take my parents when they are in town and my mom and dad start craving a sopa!!
Soup and beer ...who would have known.
Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 276-6200
If you want authentic Latin American, please notice I did not say Mexican, cuisine, El trovador will take you into Latin America and back to B-More for a delicious authentic meal.
Everything is home made, from the salsa to the tortillitas that are served as a snack.
I have brought Mexican food lovers here and this place has opened up their eyes to the viariate of food within the hispanic culture.
Moderately leaning toward the Salvadonean cuisine, this place will not only entertain your palate with the real deal, such as home made pupusas for a buck to fresh home made sopa de rez or sopa de mariscos, beef stew or seafood soup, wich are extremely popular choices within the latinos that frequesnt this place.
The margaritas will knock you on the floor, a variaty of latin beers are available and so is home made white or red sangria.
This is the place I take my parents when they are in town and my mom and dad start craving a sopa!!
Soup and beer ...who would have known.
Friday, April 02, 2010
The Prime Rib- Baltimore
- Baltimore 1101 North Calvert StreetBaltimore, MD 21202
This place is hard to find, so unless you ask, find yourself looking around for a while. I even stopped to ask a police officer for directions and he did not know where it was....umm hasn't this place been here since the begining of time?
Once you find the place you better splurge on the valet, because finding parking in this neigborhood is not easy and if you do, make sure you lock up your car real good.
This place is dark and still set in a very 1980s mob look...the decour left you asking for more with their shiny black chair sets and bronze toned decours....it screemed 80s fab from many different directions......one comment "they need and HGTV intervention" The place was mobbed (God knows why) and the wine bar area was extremely too small for all the hussle and bussle that was going on. Can we say overbooked? We waited a good hour plus to be sat. Gladly there was a real piano player accompanied by a bass guy playing soft jazz. Finally, we were sat next to the musicians....maybe a tad too close.
We ordered a shrimp cocktail appetizer, that brought us 5 robust shrimps with canned cocktail sause for a wopping $21. Next we moved on to the house specialty, the prime rib (hence the name)....that came extremely too rare (and I like rare) cold and thick.....not a good combo to have a rare cold chunk of meat the size of a 7-11 big gulp, if I may add. My partner had what appear to be a lovely steak wich she soon declared as too fatty....need I say more? The desserts were too forgettable...in fact its been a few hours and I have forgotten what we had...
Service was borderline forgetfull, since we had to ask several other waiters for things instead of our "official " waiter who became MIA for a good 45 minute spree.
Overall this place was overprize, the food was not up to par with all the talk in town about this "pretigious" steak parlor. For starter I would fire the chef and I would get a remodeling going to get rid of that low tiled ceiling....Honestly, I would not set foot here again...not even for a free dinner!
Rating = -10 and there is nothing saving it.
This place is hard to find, so unless you ask, find yourself looking around for a while. I even stopped to ask a police officer for directions and he did not know where it was....umm hasn't this place been here since the begining of time?
Once you find the place you better splurge on the valet, because finding parking in this neigborhood is not easy and if you do, make sure you lock up your car real good.
This place is dark and still set in a very 1980s mob look...the decour left you asking for more with their shiny black chair sets and bronze toned decours....it screemed 80s fab from many different directions......one comment "they need and HGTV intervention" The place was mobbed (God knows why) and the wine bar area was extremely too small for all the hussle and bussle that was going on. Can we say overbooked? We waited a good hour plus to be sat. Gladly there was a real piano player accompanied by a bass guy playing soft jazz. Finally, we were sat next to the musicians....maybe a tad too close.
We ordered a shrimp cocktail appetizer, that brought us 5 robust shrimps with canned cocktail sause for a wopping $21. Next we moved on to the house specialty, the prime rib (hence the name)....that came extremely too rare (and I like rare) cold and thick.....not a good combo to have a rare cold chunk of meat the size of a 7-11 big gulp, if I may add. My partner had what appear to be a lovely steak wich she soon declared as too fatty....need I say more? The desserts were too forgettable...in fact its been a few hours and I have forgotten what we had...
Service was borderline forgetfull, since we had to ask several other waiters for things instead of our "official " waiter who became MIA for a good 45 minute spree.
Overall this place was overprize, the food was not up to par with all the talk in town about this "pretigious" steak parlor. For starter I would fire the chef and I would get a remodeling going to get rid of that low tiled ceiling....Honestly, I would not set foot here again...not even for a free dinner!
Rating = -10 and there is nothing saving it.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
El Cholo
1025 Wilshire Boulevard
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 899-1106
This place offers authentic Mexican fare with a kick ass name. The building resembles an old Mexican Finca (farm). The interior is ample with a nice interior garden.
I truly enjoyed my food, eventhough I was immensely jet lagged.
They offer an array of truly Mexican dishes, if you feel like being brave. The drinks are amazingly strong. I would recommend this place for a group outing with friends that like to drink.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 899-1106
This place offers authentic Mexican fare with a kick ass name. The building resembles an old Mexican Finca (farm). The interior is ample with a nice interior garden.
I truly enjoyed my food, eventhough I was immensely jet lagged.
They offer an array of truly Mexican dishes, if you feel like being brave. The drinks are amazingly strong. I would recommend this place for a group outing with friends that like to drink.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Kali's court
1606 Thames StreetBaltimore, MD 22231
(410) 276-4700
This is my second time at Kali's since I have moved to Baltimore.
Both times we have had an excellent experience.
This last time though was for a special occasion, a wedding.
This could not be a better place for a wedding I must add.
The happy couple had rented the upstairs private room that set aproximately 20 people or so.
The food was as usual delicious, starting with with magnificently well put together mediterranean appetizers, shrimps and chicken bits on screwers, and some grape leaves filled with rice. Very delicious. Moved on to the main course, were we had several choices. Mine the Maryland crabcakes, that were phenomenal. Deliciously spiced crab meat with very little filling, abundand crab meat served with a beautiful potatoe puree and lovely baby carrots. I was impressed with the service, wich is always extremely attentive, wedding or not.
Wine was free flowing, but we had some tremendous choices to pick from. One of my favorite reds was featured, Worthy of Napa valley. I stuck to Sav Blanc as I was having seafood.
Dessert was of Mediterranean flavors with a gourgeously presented Backlava. Everyone pretty much stuck to wedding cake from Grauls Market's bakery (very exquisite) as well.
To end a shot for everyone and since I am not much of a shot kinda person, I had a nice Cognac to help with digestion.
Oveall a spectacular dinner. I highly recommened it for a romantic night out, sit by the gourgeous gardens and order a nice bottle of Greek wine with some steamed mussles.
Overall rating a 10.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Petit Louis Bistro
4800 Roland AvenueBaltimore, MD 21210
Website: http://www.petitlouis.com
Phone: (410) 366-9393
This little neighborhood gem is a paradise for French food lovers and if you have never had French food, is about time you started. Contrary to popular belief not all French food is pretentious, a fine example is Petit Louis. The atmosphere is just phenomenal, in fact it starts up with the magnificent feeling of steeping into a little Bistro in Bourdeux, except you do not need your passport..... The energy is vibrant the sounds of a busy bistro travels throught. All I need is Edith Piaf in the background and I would never leave. The service is top notch and we were pampered the minute we steppend into the premise. The wine list vast and primarily focused on the French selection. We ordered an array of choices, including the Steak au Poivre (Pepper steak) , that were phenomenally cooked to perfection and served with a Cognac peppery cream sauce that complimented the meat perfectly. We also ordered the Cofit de Canard wich is a gourgeous duck leg confit accompanied with mashed potatoes with a mustard reduction. Took the dessert to go, it was frankly good but nothing to write home about, possibly because a that point we were too stuff to savour anything else.
Definitively a spot to take family too, maybe for a special occassion with mom and pop.
Overall a 8.
Website: http://www.petitlouis.com
Phone: (410) 366-9393
This little neighborhood gem is a paradise for French food lovers and if you have never had French food, is about time you started. Contrary to popular belief not all French food is pretentious, a fine example is Petit Louis. The atmosphere is just phenomenal, in fact it starts up with the magnificent feeling of steeping into a little Bistro in Bourdeux, except you do not need your passport..... The energy is vibrant the sounds of a busy bistro travels throught. All I need is Edith Piaf in the background and I would never leave. The service is top notch and we were pampered the minute we steppend into the premise. The wine list vast and primarily focused on the French selection. We ordered an array of choices, including the Steak au Poivre (Pepper steak) , that were phenomenally cooked to perfection and served with a Cognac peppery cream sauce that complimented the meat perfectly. We also ordered the Cofit de Canard wich is a gourgeous duck leg confit accompanied with mashed potatoes with a mustard reduction. Took the dessert to go, it was frankly good but nothing to write home about, possibly because a that point we were too stuff to savour anything else.
Definitively a spot to take family too, maybe for a special occassion with mom and pop.
Overall a 8.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Duclaw
Fell's Point 901 S. Bond St.Baltimore, MD 21231p. 410-563-3400f. 410-563-0575
http://www.duclaw.com/
Nice relaxed atmosphere. This is the place to just go chill in Fells Point during a hot summerday, under an umbrella and sipping away some cold ones.
I must say I am not much of a beer drinker, well actually beer doesnt really exist in my vocabulary. I am more of a wine chik, that is pretty much well known amongst my friends. Yet they all know I am willing to try a beer for the sake of finally finding something good.
Well Duclaw is obviously a good place to try beer. They make their own stuff and some of it is not bad. Upon our arrival I ordered the sampler, wich comes with 9-10 little samplers, (about 4 oz) of their beers.
I approached the little beers as a wine afficionado, white (pale) to dark (and I mean dark) cleaning my palate with a delicious calamari they have.
Tried the first one, Sawtooth, not bad, I actually enjoyed it, second one and so forth til I ended with one called Snake oil....and that really does taste like oil...not to my liking.... I would definitively drink a nice cold glass of Sawtooth though next time I am around.
So, ultimately I ended up with a Sauvignon blanc, which I took partially home ( I am not a lush afterall) . I ordered the Thai pasta extra spicy and they did come quite spicy, loved it , nice big mussels, huge shrimps and abundant scallops. Definitively not a skimpiiing kinda place.
My partner ordered a buffalo wing salad to die for....very yum yum.
Service was phenomenal, by Brandon, who made great conversation and was super promt at service. the bill was not outreageous either, I would go back again for a night out with pals.
BTW this location has a happy hour that last all day Tuesday!!
My total rating: 7.5
http://www.duclaw.com/
Nice relaxed atmosphere. This is the place to just go chill in Fells Point during a hot summerday, under an umbrella and sipping away some cold ones.
I must say I am not much of a beer drinker, well actually beer doesnt really exist in my vocabulary. I am more of a wine chik, that is pretty much well known amongst my friends. Yet they all know I am willing to try a beer for the sake of finally finding something good.
Well Duclaw is obviously a good place to try beer. They make their own stuff and some of it is not bad. Upon our arrival I ordered the sampler, wich comes with 9-10 little samplers, (about 4 oz) of their beers.
I approached the little beers as a wine afficionado, white (pale) to dark (and I mean dark) cleaning my palate with a delicious calamari they have.
Tried the first one, Sawtooth, not bad, I actually enjoyed it, second one and so forth til I ended with one called Snake oil....and that really does taste like oil...not to my liking.... I would definitively drink a nice cold glass of Sawtooth though next time I am around.
So, ultimately I ended up with a Sauvignon blanc, which I took partially home ( I am not a lush afterall) . I ordered the Thai pasta extra spicy and they did come quite spicy, loved it , nice big mussels, huge shrimps and abundant scallops. Definitively not a skimpiiing kinda place.
My partner ordered a buffalo wing salad to die for....very yum yum.
Service was phenomenal, by Brandon, who made great conversation and was super promt at service. the bill was not outreageous either, I would go back again for a night out with pals.
BTW this location has a happy hour that last all day Tuesday!!
My total rating: 7.5
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
XS (sushi)
http://www.xsbaltimore.com/#
(410) 468-000
21307 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD
In ShortLocated in a three-story brownstone with cathedral ceilings, large storefront windows, exposed brick and ductwork,
This ultra hip urbanite place really knows how to cater to a number of palates. In fact their variety of food includes breakfast until 2am, sushi, desserts, paninis, wraps, sandwiches, omelets, sashimi and tempura. This place kinda morphs from a little cafe type place during the day and lunch hours to shiiiiik little hang out spots for the sexy sushi loving people. In fact a DJ on weekends spins deep and sexy music on the upper loft level, where you can also enjoy great people watching.
Drinks and sushi are always deliciously and delicately made. The alcoholic drinks are a tad over priced for the location and ambiance but I must say they will knock you out if that is what you aspire.
The clientele is young and primarily locals.
Most people walk it from their nearby crib. Some (like I) either get the luck of the Irish and find street parking or like everyone else should head to the nearby garage on Cathedral Street then walk the block. Ps: They also offer free valet parking on certain nights (check the website)
Definitively a fun hangout place to go with your enterauge before hitting the local club scene. This will put ya in the mood to relax, be sexy and dance a few moves.
My overall rating 7.0
(410) 468-000
21307 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD
In ShortLocated in a three-story brownstone with cathedral ceilings, large storefront windows, exposed brick and ductwork,
This ultra hip urbanite place really knows how to cater to a number of palates. In fact their variety of food includes breakfast until 2am, sushi, desserts, paninis, wraps, sandwiches, omelets, sashimi and tempura. This place kinda morphs from a little cafe type place during the day and lunch hours to shiiiiik little hang out spots for the sexy sushi loving people. In fact a DJ on weekends spins deep and sexy music on the upper loft level, where you can also enjoy great people watching.
Drinks and sushi are always deliciously and delicately made. The alcoholic drinks are a tad over priced for the location and ambiance but I must say they will knock you out if that is what you aspire.
The clientele is young and primarily locals.
Most people walk it from their nearby crib. Some (like I) either get the luck of the Irish and find street parking or like everyone else should head to the nearby garage on Cathedral Street then walk the block. Ps: They also offer free valet parking on certain nights (check the website)
Definitively a fun hangout place to go with your enterauge before hitting the local club scene. This will put ya in the mood to relax, be sexy and dance a few moves.
My overall rating 7.0
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Bertha's mussels
Bertha's is one of my favorite spots during summer time at Fells Point.
When I realized that Bertha's was smoke free (this is before the city wide ban in Baltimore) this establishment soon became my close by watering hole.
I would consider this to be a bar/ restaurant with a little bit of flare. The interior is eclecticly decorated from red pepper shaped lights to old irish boats on the ceilings. Not the four season where you would take your grammy for mother's day, more a place to take your beer drinking pals to have a great old happy time. This is a happening place during the live music evenings.
Jazzy nights are always the busiest, I have noticed.
The menu is a bit eclectic, focusing primarily on bar/ Irish (well even Spanish Paella) grubb.
I must say I have pretty much tried everything from the menu, including the escargots and I conclude that the food is fresh and tasty.
My favorites are definitively the mussles, their voluminous salads and during winter time their amazingly moist filet mignon (the filet mignon is a steal for the money.) The bacon wrapped shrimps are delicious too.
In fact, everything is reasonably priced, including the drinks. Cannot beat that and the bartender ladies are the most friendly bar chicks in town.
So one of this hot summer evenings, I will be heading down to Berthas and order a nice cold bottle of Sauvignon Blanc and some nice steamed mussles. Relax a tad while listening to some live Jazzy music.
I think is time for you to take a break too.
If you are in for a non pretencious relaxed atmosphere with good food this is a 10 for you!
When I realized that Bertha's was smoke free (this is before the city wide ban in Baltimore) this establishment soon became my close by watering hole.
I would consider this to be a bar/ restaurant with a little bit of flare. The interior is eclecticly decorated from red pepper shaped lights to old irish boats on the ceilings. Not the four season where you would take your grammy for mother's day, more a place to take your beer drinking pals to have a great old happy time. This is a happening place during the live music evenings.
Jazzy nights are always the busiest, I have noticed.
The menu is a bit eclectic, focusing primarily on bar/ Irish (well even Spanish Paella) grubb.
I must say I have pretty much tried everything from the menu, including the escargots and I conclude that the food is fresh and tasty.
My favorites are definitively the mussles, their voluminous salads and during winter time their amazingly moist filet mignon (the filet mignon is a steal for the money.) The bacon wrapped shrimps are delicious too.
In fact, everything is reasonably priced, including the drinks. Cannot beat that and the bartender ladies are the most friendly bar chicks in town.
So one of this hot summer evenings, I will be heading down to Berthas and order a nice cold bottle of Sauvignon Blanc and some nice steamed mussles. Relax a tad while listening to some live Jazzy music.
I think is time for you to take a break too.
If you are in for a non pretencious relaxed atmosphere with good food this is a 10 for you!
Dukem
Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant # 2 1100 Maryland Avenue Baltimore, MD 21201 Tel: 410-385-0318
http://www.dukemrestaurant.com/
If you like to experience great food, Dukem is the place for you!!
I love food, all food, and I have taken plenty of friends to Dukem, from vegetarians to meat lovers and they all have agreed Dukem is a hit. In fact even the most particular eaters have fallen in love with ethiopian food after trying out Dukem.
I will make this as easy as it comes.
Depening on what you like, if you like Spicy food, you are in the right place, they aim to please, as for super hot and you got it.
Also, clean your hands, you eat without utensils so...cleanliness if imperative.
They offer lovely appetizers like sambusa, either vegetarian or with meat. Veggies is filled with lentils and with meat .....with meat....(uh)
You have choices of cold Ethiopian beers, that I must say I have never tried, but I have been told they are a baseball bat to the head (if you know what I mean) or you could order some deliciuos tej, honey wine. The latest tends to soothe your sore tongue if you ordered spicy food.
Now to the food....everything is good...
If you like meat, like myself I order the AWAZE TIBS, wich is pretty much their version of bbq meat.
The spices are to die for, and if you order extra hot, they do not joke around with their jalapeno either.
My partner orders the GORED GORED TIBS, non too spicy.
The girls there are so very nice, they can totally tell if you can handle the heat.
They know my mouth is made of fire, so they give me some tear jerking heat, that nobody at the table can usually take except me.
Everything is usally served with a few veggie accompaniaments here and there. Little salad with totatoes helps with soothing the heat by the way.
Your tool of scooping is called injira, wich is a tortilla (in the one and only sence that is round) yet soft like bread made from some wheat or not....that you cut in a scoop, place it in your fingers and scoop the food with it sorta deal.
Sounds primitive but it works, and the injira gives it a nice flavour. People are usually spooked by the injira until they try it with the food.
The service is always great, I have gotten to know the girls, that usually teach me a word or two of ethipian.
So to you my friend try it and "Letenachi" (wich is cheers, but its meaning is to your health) The ethiopians have it figure out, drinking is good for you, with great food of course.
My overall rating 8.5 - casual and yum yum!
http://www.dukemrestaurant.com/
If you like to experience great food, Dukem is the place for you!!
I love food, all food, and I have taken plenty of friends to Dukem, from vegetarians to meat lovers and they all have agreed Dukem is a hit. In fact even the most particular eaters have fallen in love with ethiopian food after trying out Dukem.
I will make this as easy as it comes.
Depening on what you like, if you like Spicy food, you are in the right place, they aim to please, as for super hot and you got it.
Also, clean your hands, you eat without utensils so...cleanliness if imperative.
They offer lovely appetizers like sambusa, either vegetarian or with meat. Veggies is filled with lentils and with meat .....with meat....(uh)
You have choices of cold Ethiopian beers, that I must say I have never tried, but I have been told they are a baseball bat to the head (if you know what I mean) or you could order some deliciuos tej, honey wine. The latest tends to soothe your sore tongue if you ordered spicy food.
Now to the food....everything is good...
If you like meat, like myself I order the AWAZE TIBS, wich is pretty much their version of bbq meat.
The spices are to die for, and if you order extra hot, they do not joke around with their jalapeno either.
My partner orders the GORED GORED TIBS, non too spicy.
The girls there are so very nice, they can totally tell if you can handle the heat.
They know my mouth is made of fire, so they give me some tear jerking heat, that nobody at the table can usually take except me.
Everything is usally served with a few veggie accompaniaments here and there. Little salad with totatoes helps with soothing the heat by the way.
Your tool of scooping is called injira, wich is a tortilla (in the one and only sence that is round) yet soft like bread made from some wheat or not....that you cut in a scoop, place it in your fingers and scoop the food with it sorta deal.
Sounds primitive but it works, and the injira gives it a nice flavour. People are usually spooked by the injira until they try it with the food.
The service is always great, I have gotten to know the girls, that usually teach me a word or two of ethipian.
So to you my friend try it and "Letenachi" (wich is cheers, but its meaning is to your health) The ethiopians have it figure out, drinking is good for you, with great food of course.
My overall rating 8.5 - casual and yum yum!
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Kathmandu Kitchen
(410) 847-9595
22 W Allegheny Ave, Towson, MD
www.mykathmandukitchen.co...
I moved about a year ago from the DC area, and I have been craving good Indian food. I noticed that in the Baltimore area there aren’t a lot of choices. Upon moving to Towson and doing my first dry run around my area a few months ago (just to see what was around) I saw the sign for this place. Kept it in mind until I decided to order delivery.
I never had Indian delivery, not even in DC or the VA area.
Well, I made my order of Chicken Saag and Chicken Makhni, the last one is better known to most Americans as Butter chicken.
The receptionist was quite pleasant and I ordered my food, 40 minutes I was told.
So I ran to the wine store to get myself some nice wine to go with my food….I ordered extra hot, plus wine it a requirement with a good meal.
When I arrived, about 20 minutes after my original call, the food had already arrived. Fortunately he had just gotten there as well.
I laid out my food and smelled the delicious spices. I could have not asked for better.
I must truly say, the best Indian I have ever had, including all those sit down places I frequented when I lived in Fairfax, Va (tons of Indian there to pick from). Additionally I have a few Indian foodie friends that have recommended great places, but this one really tops them all at least in America.
The Makhni (butter) chicken was well spiced and hot, even my friend (not a hot food lover) loved its flavours. The chicken saag, my friend’s dish was to die for as well, its creamy spinach was mouth watering. Everything was so well prepared and so fresh to my taste buds.
This place is the "IT" for Indian. This initial visit will prove quite dangerous for me. I have finally found the place where to get my so loved Indian food. Now, I have to go and have a sit down dinner in there….see what is like in person.
For food taste and service: A 10!!
22 W Allegheny Ave, Towson, MD
www.mykathmandukitchen.co...
I moved about a year ago from the DC area, and I have been craving good Indian food. I noticed that in the Baltimore area there aren’t a lot of choices. Upon moving to Towson and doing my first dry run around my area a few months ago (just to see what was around) I saw the sign for this place. Kept it in mind until I decided to order delivery.
I never had Indian delivery, not even in DC or the VA area.
Well, I made my order of Chicken Saag and Chicken Makhni, the last one is better known to most Americans as Butter chicken.
The receptionist was quite pleasant and I ordered my food, 40 minutes I was told.
So I ran to the wine store to get myself some nice wine to go with my food….I ordered extra hot, plus wine it a requirement with a good meal.
When I arrived, about 20 minutes after my original call, the food had already arrived. Fortunately he had just gotten there as well.
I laid out my food and smelled the delicious spices. I could have not asked for better.
I must truly say, the best Indian I have ever had, including all those sit down places I frequented when I lived in Fairfax, Va (tons of Indian there to pick from). Additionally I have a few Indian foodie friends that have recommended great places, but this one really tops them all at least in America.
The Makhni (butter) chicken was well spiced and hot, even my friend (not a hot food lover) loved its flavours. The chicken saag, my friend’s dish was to die for as well, its creamy spinach was mouth watering. Everything was so well prepared and so fresh to my taste buds.
This place is the "IT" for Indian. This initial visit will prove quite dangerous for me. I have finally found the place where to get my so loved Indian food. Now, I have to go and have a sit down dinner in there….see what is like in person.
For food taste and service: A 10!!
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