904 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 385-9946
Categories: American (Traditional), French, Mediterranean
Adorable French bistro inspired setting in the heart of Mt Vernon. I have tried their Coq a Vin and I was highly dissapointed. I was served stale and moldy bread that should have been discarded two days before hand. I will not even attempt to entartain you with how horrible this thick gravied chicken was, as I would not wish to mentally disturb my readers. The service is a little on the snooty side and it's a hit and miss on a good day. Now as far as desert goes, this little place is a gem. They have a vast selection of house made French pastries, including tarts and tortes of all kinds and delicious ice creams. So after dinner if you are seeking something sweet take a stroll down to Marie Louise and fill your heart with something sweet.
Saturday, February 04, 2012
Sunday, January 01, 2012
Midnite Confection's Cupcakery
1051 S Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 727-1010
Categories: Bakeries, Desserts
Neighborhood: Federal Hill
As one of my other reviews had mentioned I am definitively not a cupcake afficionado, in fact I am the least likely to order desert at a meal. I love baking and grew up with a mom that was a superb baker and pastry maker. I definitively know great cake. The cupcake frenzy has taken over since Magnolia's in NYC. They stuff tends to be overly sweet and leaves you drinking tons of water for days. Having a cupcake should not be a diabetic hazard. I have tried a few places here in Baltimore with good cake, good topping, and not so good of both...this little bakery now...has both pat down to the T! Their toppings are to die for...I am serious, their pistacchios red velvet at formidable. These cupcakes go fast, make a cove on these babies earlier during the day, or you will be left high and dry. To me the topping can make such a difference, here you can have your cupcake custom topped with whatever frosting they have ready....isn't that fairie-liy delicious?
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 727-1010
Categories: Bakeries, Desserts
Neighborhood: Federal Hill
As one of my other reviews had mentioned I am definitively not a cupcake afficionado, in fact I am the least likely to order desert at a meal. I love baking and grew up with a mom that was a superb baker and pastry maker. I definitively know great cake. The cupcake frenzy has taken over since Magnolia's in NYC. They stuff tends to be overly sweet and leaves you drinking tons of water for days. Having a cupcake should not be a diabetic hazard. I have tried a few places here in Baltimore with good cake, good topping, and not so good of both...this little bakery now...has both pat down to the T! Their toppings are to die for...I am serious, their pistacchios red velvet at formidable. These cupcakes go fast, make a cove on these babies earlier during the day, or you will be left high and dry. To me the topping can make such a difference, here you can have your cupcake custom topped with whatever frosting they have ready....isn't that fairie-liy delicious?
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Italia's Corner Cafe
7089 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
(410) 684-3817
Category: Italian
You tell me, where can you get a HUMONGOUS pie for $15 to feed the entire family? This pie is not only inexpensive, but also authetically Italian It's practically a gift from heaven!! I have tried their thin pizza here to go and in house and the quality is immaculately the same. The pick up is always on time and the service is always courteous. If you want great Italian style think pizza this is the place to go!
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
(410) 684-3817
Category: Italian
You tell me, where can you get a HUMONGOUS pie for $15 to feed the entire family? This pie is not only inexpensive, but also authetically Italian It's practically a gift from heaven!! I have tried their thin pizza here to go and in house and the quality is immaculately the same. The pick up is always on time and the service is always courteous. If you want great Italian style think pizza this is the place to go!
Saturday, October 01, 2011
Jack's Bistro
23 Elliott St
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 878-6542
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Canton/Highlandtown
Jacks atmosphere is modern and relaxed and laid back. Pub meets American Bristro urban atmostphere.
The burgers are what Jacks is well known for; specially the Blt -Beware this Its not an ordinary BLT, but a little piece of heaven. I could also call it a heart attack on a plate, but I will assume my readers are amazingly healthy and can take this blow to the heart as a treat.
So, here is the amazing concept...what bacon genius might have thought of this powerful tastebud concoction. Immagine an all bacon, no beef pattie served in between a nice brioche bun with lettuce and tomatoe...yes call it a BLT ...call it a burger.... I call it palate insanity!!! The steak burger is also extremely flavourful and moist. You know most steak tends to dry up a little when you make it in a burger...well not this one. I truly enjoyed seating next to the kitchen with my date as we had the opportunity to look forward to try all their other entrees. Their beer and wine choices are extensive and the service quite knowledgiable of the food and drinks. It's exciting how American fair can be made more exciting with Asian Flavors, something the Jack's culinary crew does a superb job at incorporating in their menu. The desert list is sinful and tempts even the most non desert lovers (AKA me). I shared the Smore desert and I think I dream of it at night.
BTW quit immagining the BLT, just go and get yourself one.
Oh and try the mac and cheese with the chocolate dusting...YUM!
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 878-6542
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Canton/Highlandtown
Jacks atmosphere is modern and relaxed and laid back. Pub meets American Bristro urban atmostphere.
The burgers are what Jacks is well known for; specially the Blt -Beware this Its not an ordinary BLT, but a little piece of heaven. I could also call it a heart attack on a plate, but I will assume my readers are amazingly healthy and can take this blow to the heart as a treat.
So, here is the amazing concept...what bacon genius might have thought of this powerful tastebud concoction. Immagine an all bacon, no beef pattie served in between a nice brioche bun with lettuce and tomatoe...yes call it a BLT ...call it a burger.... I call it palate insanity!!! The steak burger is also extremely flavourful and moist. You know most steak tends to dry up a little when you make it in a burger...well not this one. I truly enjoyed seating next to the kitchen with my date as we had the opportunity to look forward to try all their other entrees. Their beer and wine choices are extensive and the service quite knowledgiable of the food and drinks. It's exciting how American fair can be made more exciting with Asian Flavors, something the Jack's culinary crew does a superb job at incorporating in their menu. The desert list is sinful and tempts even the most non desert lovers (AKA me). I shared the Smore desert and I think I dream of it at night.
BTW quit immagining the BLT, just go and get yourself one.
Oh and try the mac and cheese with the chocolate dusting...YUM!
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Turp's Sports Bar & Restaurant
1317 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 347-0349
Categories: American (Traditional), Sports Bars
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Great neighborhood hangout that offers tons of weekly specials to blow your mind and inexpensive enough to keep your money in your pocket. There is a pizza night and a burger night and a little bit of everything in between to please everyone's taste. The food , good old confort food, pub fare. No 5 star recipes here, but just good old American favorites to be shared with neighbors and friends. The best part of Turps is the reasonable prices on the fare and the beer specials. Cannot beat that! Unlike the other reviews I have read here, where the service has been predomenantly unfriendly, I have come across some pretty cool waitresses, who are always attentive and chatty. Come in early as the crowds do build up.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 347-0349
Categories: American (Traditional), Sports Bars
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Great neighborhood hangout that offers tons of weekly specials to blow your mind and inexpensive enough to keep your money in your pocket. There is a pizza night and a burger night and a little bit of everything in between to please everyone's taste. The food , good old confort food, pub fare. No 5 star recipes here, but just good old American favorites to be shared with neighbors and friends. The best part of Turps is the reasonable prices on the fare and the beer specials. Cannot beat that! Unlike the other reviews I have read here, where the service has been predomenantly unfriendly, I have come across some pretty cool waitresses, who are always attentive and chatty. Come in early as the crowds do build up.
Thursday, July 07, 2011
Lebanese Taverna
719 S President St
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 244-5533
Category: Mediterranean
Neighborhood: Harbor East
Possibly the most horribly overrated and most overpriced placed in Harbor East. I have had good Middle Eastern food in Washington Dc (my closest friends from college were Turkish, Lebanese, Irani and Iraqui) and unfortunately this is a tragic attempt to recreate Lebanese fare Washingtonian style (and at the same cost in Baltimore) here in Harbor East. Just because this two acres of Baltimore are ridiculous overbuilt, it doesn't mean you can charge NYC prices for flavorless dishes and a lack of view (obstruckted by the huge Legg Mason building if you are sitting outside).
At this prices, at this location, and specially flanked by neighbors like Chinghiale, Oceanaire and the Chalerston, dear Lebanese Taverna you need to step up your game! The sex appeal of the interior, and the sad attempt to transform the venue into a hot club with loud Euro trash music around midnight can only take you so far but it soon (15 minutes) gets old too quickly. The service, I must admit aims to please. My dirty martini was made to 007 standards. Unfortunately, all the booze in the world cannot save an overpriced piece of undercooked lamb that is just crying to be saved by some lovely Greek Lady that could cook it to perfection down the street...let's say at Mezze's. Now, if you like to feel "NYC" flashy and don't mind getting ripped off for a subtandard meal, this is your spot.
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 244-5533
Category: Mediterranean
Neighborhood: Harbor East
Possibly the most horribly overrated and most overpriced placed in Harbor East. I have had good Middle Eastern food in Washington Dc (my closest friends from college were Turkish, Lebanese, Irani and Iraqui) and unfortunately this is a tragic attempt to recreate Lebanese fare Washingtonian style (and at the same cost in Baltimore) here in Harbor East. Just because this two acres of Baltimore are ridiculous overbuilt, it doesn't mean you can charge NYC prices for flavorless dishes and a lack of view (obstruckted by the huge Legg Mason building if you are sitting outside).
At this prices, at this location, and specially flanked by neighbors like Chinghiale, Oceanaire and the Chalerston, dear Lebanese Taverna you need to step up your game! The sex appeal of the interior, and the sad attempt to transform the venue into a hot club with loud Euro trash music around midnight can only take you so far but it soon (15 minutes) gets old too quickly. The service, I must admit aims to please. My dirty martini was made to 007 standards. Unfortunately, all the booze in the world cannot save an overpriced piece of undercooked lamb that is just crying to be saved by some lovely Greek Lady that could cook it to perfection down the street...let's say at Mezze's. Now, if you like to feel "NYC" flashy and don't mind getting ripped off for a subtandard meal, this is your spot.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Sascha's 527 Cafe
527 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 539-8880
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
I have been living literally across the street from this place and everyone has been telling me that I need to try this place. I wasn't impressed with their cuisine.
Their atmosphere is absolutely exquisitive, refreshingly spunky and yet sophisticatly romantic. Dimly lit and adorned with splash of colorful yet intriguing art.
The service was friendly yet a little absent minded when it comes to pointing out there is a hair in the tacos. Now their food, nothing to write home about, I had a couple of things from their appertizer menu, the fish tacos and their calamari and everything was well executed specially the calamari's red sauce. As I said nothing to write home about. My date had their Thursday special, wich is their Fried Chicken special. It came with cole slaw, mash potatoes and three large pieces of chicken. She said it was delicious, and she knows her fried chicken so I will take her word of expert on this one, as I tried only a little bitty piece.
Now the cocktails were very tasty, possibly slightly too overpriced for Baltimore Standards, but rest assured that the bartender does know what he/she is doing.
Overall not a bad experience, the tacos should have been written off due to the hair, but the waitress seemed to claim amnesia when we pointed it out. We should try another nightly special to really assess this place. Wenesdays are filet mignon special night. Maybe then...
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 539-8880
Category: American (New)
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
I have been living literally across the street from this place and everyone has been telling me that I need to try this place. I wasn't impressed with their cuisine.
Their atmosphere is absolutely exquisitive, refreshingly spunky and yet sophisticatly romantic. Dimly lit and adorned with splash of colorful yet intriguing art.
The service was friendly yet a little absent minded when it comes to pointing out there is a hair in the tacos. Now their food, nothing to write home about, I had a couple of things from their appertizer menu, the fish tacos and their calamari and everything was well executed specially the calamari's red sauce. As I said nothing to write home about. My date had their Thursday special, wich is their Fried Chicken special. It came with cole slaw, mash potatoes and three large pieces of chicken. She said it was delicious, and she knows her fried chicken so I will take her word of expert on this one, as I tried only a little bitty piece.
Now the cocktails were very tasty, possibly slightly too overpriced for Baltimore Standards, but rest assured that the bartender does know what he/she is doing.
Overall not a bad experience, the tacos should have been written off due to the hair, but the waitress seemed to claim amnesia when we pointed it out. We should try another nightly special to really assess this place. Wenesdays are filet mignon special night. Maybe then...
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Never On Sunday
829 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 727-7191
Category: Greek
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Never on Sunday, as it explesitly says is never open on Sundays, and they are not kidding. Offers an array of fast food. Honestly the menu is vast but this place is entirely inept of great food, everything is barely comestible. In fact I'm of firm belief that this place has been kept alive by the neighboring bar scene. I guess drunk people want fast and oily food and they don't care much about taste.
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 727-7191
Category: Greek
Neighborhood: Mount Vernon
Never on Sunday, as it explesitly says is never open on Sundays, and they are not kidding. Offers an array of fast food. Honestly the menu is vast but this place is entirely inept of great food, everything is barely comestible. In fact I'm of firm belief that this place has been kept alive by the neighboring bar scene. I guess drunk people want fast and oily food and they don't care much about taste.
Monday, November 08, 2010
Grandville Moore's
1238 H St NE
(between N 12th St & N 13th St)
Washington, DC 20002
Set in an old veterinarean office that has been stripped to the bone and made into an establishment with tons of character. This ultra casual place is totally unpretancious. From the front is kind of hard to extablis h its location as there is no large sign out front other than a non lit sign on the window.
Perfect for a friends night out, GM offers a wide selection of beers. Beers not easily found at the local liquor store. Make sure that with those beers (notice how I plurilized) you order the frites with an array of dipping sauces....the truffled one is to die for.
The wait times can be a little offputting, but it's nothing to worry about, if you come on a weeknight at around 6 or 7 you should be fine. Plus there are always the bars (one upstairs and one downstairs). Additionally, if there is a wait, the guy at the door will take your telephone number and call you when they are ready. You do not have to stay within the premises, you can in fact wonder to a nearby watering hole and enjoy some brew there if you prefer.
The main attraction of the place are the mussels, please keep in mind mussels are better during the months that end with er, such as September - December. The mussels steamed in many sauces. My favorite is the moules bleu, or bleu mussels in a blue cheese sauce. Phenomenal when soaked up by bread.
All the other food, wich I have honeslty never had, I have been informed is delicious. If you are a true foodie this is a must try place for you.
(between N 12th St & N 13th St)
Washington, DC 20002
Set in an old veterinarean office that has been stripped to the bone and made into an establishment with tons of character. This ultra casual place is totally unpretancious. From the front is kind of hard to extablis h its location as there is no large sign out front other than a non lit sign on the window.
Perfect for a friends night out, GM offers a wide selection of beers. Beers not easily found at the local liquor store. Make sure that with those beers (notice how I plurilized) you order the frites with an array of dipping sauces....the truffled one is to die for.
The wait times can be a little offputting, but it's nothing to worry about, if you come on a weeknight at around 6 or 7 you should be fine. Plus there are always the bars (one upstairs and one downstairs). Additionally, if there is a wait, the guy at the door will take your telephone number and call you when they are ready. You do not have to stay within the premises, you can in fact wonder to a nearby watering hole and enjoy some brew there if you prefer.
The main attraction of the place are the mussels, please keep in mind mussels are better during the months that end with er, such as September - December. The mussels steamed in many sauces. My favorite is the moules bleu, or bleu mussels in a blue cheese sauce. Phenomenal when soaked up by bread.
All the other food, wich I have honeslty never had, I have been informed is delicious. If you are a true foodie this is a must try place for you.
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Capital City Diner
1050 Bladensburg Rd NE
(between N K St & N Oates St)
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 396-3467
www.capitalcitydiner.com
Have you ever seen an actual old skool diner in the city? Well now you can!! You cannot help it, but love the nostalgic feeling of the "Classic American Diner" that is often characterized by glimmering stainless steel exterior --a feature unique to diner architecture. It's nice to see the prototypical "rail car" style diner circa 1930s adorn Bladensburg road in D.C. Classic!
The staff is extremely friendly and the service is quick and immaculate. I have been to several diners up in the New York, Jersey area and I always find that there is a certain sence of uncleanliness that can come across, well this place doesn't. This place is kept clean. The kitchen area is extremely busy as the pace of customers in an out this joint on a busy day is insane. This place can get packed, and this is an understatement. The cliente is eclectic, youg families, seniors and urbanites of the such.
Try hitting Sunday brunch a little bit earlier than expected or you will end up waiting for a little while. I am not saying hours as the service is very fast. All I am saying is, if you are hungry go early. The food is American diner style, burgers, fries, breakfast. A must have are the waffle fries. DELICIOUS!
There are many weekly specials featured on the menu, and needless to say the prices are to die for.
(between N K St & N Oates St)
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 396-3467
www.capitalcitydiner.com
Have you ever seen an actual old skool diner in the city? Well now you can!! You cannot help it, but love the nostalgic feeling of the "Classic American Diner" that is often characterized by glimmering stainless steel exterior --a feature unique to diner architecture. It's nice to see the prototypical "rail car" style diner circa 1930s adorn Bladensburg road in D.C. Classic!
The staff is extremely friendly and the service is quick and immaculate. I have been to several diners up in the New York, Jersey area and I always find that there is a certain sence of uncleanliness that can come across, well this place doesn't. This place is kept clean. The kitchen area is extremely busy as the pace of customers in an out this joint on a busy day is insane. This place can get packed, and this is an understatement. The cliente is eclectic, youg families, seniors and urbanites of the such.
Try hitting Sunday brunch a little bit earlier than expected or you will end up waiting for a little while. I am not saying hours as the service is very fast. All I am saying is, if you are hungry go early. The food is American diner style, burgers, fries, breakfast. A must have are the waffle fries. DELICIOUS!
There are many weekly specials featured on the menu, and needless to say the prices are to die for.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Ping Pong
Gallery Pl – Chinatown
900 7th St NW (b/t N I St & N Massachusetts Ave) Washington, DC 20001
www.pingpongdimsum.us/
This is no ordinary dim sum house. If you want to experience dim sum for dinner this is the place to go. The place is huge, elegant and bold, with notes of dark wood and smashingling contemporary.It is definitively an attractive establishment that does an excellent job of luring “innocent” urbinites into its premises. Needless to say the place is sexy, but loud as loud can get. The acoustics in this place are desperately aggravating. You can barely hear the person next to you or across from you. I felt like I needed a microphone in this place in order to converse with anyone. This is definitively not the place for a first date or a romantic date at all, as you won’t get any conversation done.
Another downfall is the lack of valet parking. It is one of the most obvious things I expect when you are in a location that is so overtrafficked and supposedly to an above than avarage stablishment. So, I highly recommend taking a cab in.
Reservations are merely a suggestion as we were seated approximately 1 hour or more after our reservation. So, if you are a timely person, expect to chill at the bar for a good while. (who knows if this is a sale scheme.)
I must say that even thoug the food is delicious, it cannot remotely compare to the authentic flavors of a dim sum house where the dim sum is brought to you in carts. Technically the idea behind Ping Pong is turning dim sum into tapas and overcharge for it. Additionally the portions are so small that I can guarantee you that by the end of the night you will be starving again.
Regarding the impressevely stocked bar. I must insist that we are not in NYC and that paying comparable NYC prices in Washington Dc is absurd, unless you are in one of the best restaurants in town, or you just don’t care to be robben blindly.
Now if you are into overspending, flashiness and loud places where you just want to look good and not really care about the conversation….this is the place for you.
900 7th St NW (b/t N I St & N Massachusetts Ave) Washington, DC 20001
www.pingpongdimsum.us/
This is no ordinary dim sum house. If you want to experience dim sum for dinner this is the place to go. The place is huge, elegant and bold, with notes of dark wood and smashingling contemporary.It is definitively an attractive establishment that does an excellent job of luring “innocent” urbinites into its premises. Needless to say the place is sexy, but loud as loud can get. The acoustics in this place are desperately aggravating. You can barely hear the person next to you or across from you. I felt like I needed a microphone in this place in order to converse with anyone. This is definitively not the place for a first date or a romantic date at all, as you won’t get any conversation done.
Another downfall is the lack of valet parking. It is one of the most obvious things I expect when you are in a location that is so overtrafficked and supposedly to an above than avarage stablishment. So, I highly recommend taking a cab in.
Reservations are merely a suggestion as we were seated approximately 1 hour or more after our reservation. So, if you are a timely person, expect to chill at the bar for a good while. (who knows if this is a sale scheme.)
I must say that even thoug the food is delicious, it cannot remotely compare to the authentic flavors of a dim sum house where the dim sum is brought to you in carts. Technically the idea behind Ping Pong is turning dim sum into tapas and overcharge for it. Additionally the portions are so small that I can guarantee you that by the end of the night you will be starving again.
Regarding the impressevely stocked bar. I must insist that we are not in NYC and that paying comparable NYC prices in Washington Dc is absurd, unless you are in one of the best restaurants in town, or you just don’t care to be robben blindly.
Now if you are into overspending, flashiness and loud places where you just want to look good and not really care about the conversation….this is the place for you.
Pho 75
1721 Wilson Blvd
Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 525-7355
One of the first Pho places in the area, has been in business for over 20 something years…and this is why…
The only thing sold here is Pho….the specialty is PHO, the menu is comprised of only PHO!
This is a no bullshit Pho place, PHO PHO PHO and nothing else, well drinks…(you have to drink right?)
The Pho is delivious and the service is prompt . Always packed this place creates lines..
Only negative its they do not have hot chili sauce.
Otherwise close to perfection.
Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 525-7355
One of the first Pho places in the area, has been in business for over 20 something years…and this is why…
The only thing sold here is Pho….the specialty is PHO, the menu is comprised of only PHO!
This is a no bullshit Pho place, PHO PHO PHO and nothing else, well drinks…(you have to drink right?)
The Pho is delivious and the service is prompt . Always packed this place creates lines..
Only negative its they do not have hot chili sauce.
Otherwise close to perfection.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Biergarten Haus
1355 H St NE
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 388-4053
Have you ever been to place where you feel you are in a different country? Well!!!! Welcome to Germany BABY!! The front bar is stunningly constructed with old mohogany that gives you an instantaneous feeling of being in a bar in a small town in Germany where you go get a couple pints. Now, there is more.... the outside patio is where the action is. A huge tent covers the main patio just in case of torrential rains, 'cause you know we have so many of those...*wink*...I think is more for keeping from the sun and not scorching while you are indeed enjoying that pint. Large screen TVs surround the walls and give you an opportunity to catch your favorite game at any time. The bier comes in different sizes... Up to a litre...well at least that is what I have. Their main specialties are german biers and the do offer a large variate of that.....and superb authentic German food and of course outstandingly thoughtful service!!!
Definitively a must visit!
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 388-4053
Have you ever been to place where you feel you are in a different country? Well!!!! Welcome to Germany BABY!! The front bar is stunningly constructed with old mohogany that gives you an instantaneous feeling of being in a bar in a small town in Germany where you go get a couple pints. Now, there is more.... the outside patio is where the action is. A huge tent covers the main patio just in case of torrential rains, 'cause you know we have so many of those...*wink*...I think is more for keeping from the sun and not scorching while you are indeed enjoying that pint. Large screen TVs surround the walls and give you an opportunity to catch your favorite game at any time. The bier comes in different sizes... Up to a litre...well at least that is what I have. Their main specialties are german biers and the do offer a large variate of that.....and superb authentic German food and of course outstandingly thoughtful service!!!
Definitively a must visit!
Carmine's
425 7th St NW
Washington D.C., DC 20004
(202) 737-7770
Carmine is located walking distance of the Chinatown district. Beware that finding parking around there is just a monstrous disaster. Opt for the valet...The establishment is huge but a mere replica of a Maggianos for slightly more money (due to the location I guess).
The food...generic Americanized Italian lacking a certain flare a certain creativity...and a certain authenticity. Sorry, but having lived in Italy for many years has made me a picky eater when it comes to Italian cuisine.
The calamari were just way too overcooked and squid size was miniscule....Maybe it should be called baby calamari.
The food is good, don't get me wrong and it's served family style and you cannot beat the humongous portions. Great for a large group that likes to share.
Their house wines are a delish, made directly from the family vineyard.
The service was quite attentive, as they kept my glass quite filled...*wink*
Washington D.C., DC 20004
(202) 737-7770
Carmine is located walking distance of the Chinatown district. Beware that finding parking around there is just a monstrous disaster. Opt for the valet...The establishment is huge but a mere replica of a Maggianos for slightly more money (due to the location I guess).
The food...generic Americanized Italian lacking a certain flare a certain creativity...and a certain authenticity. Sorry, but having lived in Italy for many years has made me a picky eater when it comes to Italian cuisine.
The calamari were just way too overcooked and squid size was miniscule....Maybe it should be called baby calamari.
The food is good, don't get me wrong and it's served family style and you cannot beat the humongous portions. Great for a large group that likes to share.
Their house wines are a delish, made directly from the family vineyard.
The service was quite attentive, as they kept my glass quite filled...*wink*
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Little Miss Whiskey's Golden Dollar
Located in an upcoming neighborhood, this place is a little diamond in the rough. I have been a couple times here now and I must say this place is fun fun fun. This place is tricky as from the outside it looks just like another row house...but it sports two huge levels and a huge patio. Attracting neighborhood urbinites of different backgrounds, this place has lots to offer. The bartenders are extremely friendly. The music is always hopping and the bar has a wide selection of beers that will make your eyes pop! Beware though is cash only, but an atm is conveniently located in the premises.
Friday, October 08, 2010
HomeMade Pizza Co
1522 14th St NW
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 588-0808
To me ...the idea is almost unheard of...why would you go anywhere and order a raw pizza? I guess the urbanites need to feel like they are actually doing some cooking. This place prepares it and gives you the info on how to bake it. Can we really call this homemade? Come on now...its like getting something from the frozen section and slapping it in the oven and serving it as homemade. Really ?? I would immagine anyone would just walk to Whole Foods and get a "homemade" pizza there. The distance is about the same. You must be a pretty busy person to go for this, and if you are that busy you are probably better off ordering an already cooked pizza. As far as flavor goes? The pizza is superior than a frozen pie, but not as good as an actual pizza place (we are not talking pizza hut or Dominos)...and definitively not worth your buck.
Honestly this place is overrated and I am just quite shocked on how they are still in business.
Do yourself a favor, pick up something from Pizza Paradiso's!!
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 588-0808
To me ...the idea is almost unheard of...why would you go anywhere and order a raw pizza? I guess the urbanites need to feel like they are actually doing some cooking. This place prepares it and gives you the info on how to bake it. Can we really call this homemade? Come on now...its like getting something from the frozen section and slapping it in the oven and serving it as homemade. Really ?? I would immagine anyone would just walk to Whole Foods and get a "homemade" pizza there. The distance is about the same. You must be a pretty busy person to go for this, and if you are that busy you are probably better off ordering an already cooked pizza. As far as flavor goes? The pizza is superior than a frozen pie, but not as good as an actual pizza place (we are not talking pizza hut or Dominos)...and definitively not worth your buck.
Honestly this place is overrated and I am just quite shocked on how they are still in business.
Do yourself a favor, pick up something from Pizza Paradiso's!!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Pazo Restaurant
1425 Aliceanna St
Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 534-7296
Located in a old warehouse that has been lavisly revamped into a huge Spanish style hacienda. The ceilings are lofty and adorned with voluptious Spanish chandeliers. The first floor has several half moon low back plushy seatings, graciously inspired by a Mediterranean flare. This place is creatively pleasing to the eyes in more way than you can immagine. Well how so? Well, this is where Baltimore good looking list frequent to quench their thirst, savoring those perfectly concocted coktails that will land you straight on the floor. Professionals from around the city tend to gravitate to the allure and sexiness of Pazo.
The bar offers some of the largest most thought out cocktail list in the city, with a tad of appeal for just about anyone. The bartenders aim to please and will mix whatever concoction your mind might immagine. It is unreservedly exciting to be in a well conceived atmosphere that serves to an unambigious duality, and that is to serve some phenomenal Mediterranean/ Spanish Fare and attrack the sexiest in the city to hop to some beat thumping music on the weekends.
My last visit's experience was superb!
I must point out the lighly battered eggplant (and I am not an eggplant person lover, whatsoever), deliciously crispy on the outside and a pleasantly surpprising soft inside, the eggplant practicaly melts aways in your mouth giving your taste buds an orgasmic experience ( I am talking about eggplant!). Next is the ceviche with Jicama wich is just formidable, deliciously sinful. I have had plenty ceviche in my lifetime and this one tops them all. It is just so light and summery. Generally speaking ceviche tends to be overly lemony, this one as is paired with the Jicama escapes such fault. The wood grilled lamb chop I must admit is a big tease, melts in your mouth and leaves you high and dry wishing for more. To top my experience is most definitively the best dish I had that night and that is the lamb sausage ravioli, perfectly lightly cooked and sprinkled with a delicious light sauce.
Overall the food here at Pazo is confortably Mediterranean with meticulous thought to detail in every aspect, from techniche to presentation. It leaves you desiring for more or to try more, but essentially satisfying the most complex Mediterranean palates out there.
Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 534-7296
Located in a old warehouse that has been lavisly revamped into a huge Spanish style hacienda. The ceilings are lofty and adorned with voluptious Spanish chandeliers. The first floor has several half moon low back plushy seatings, graciously inspired by a Mediterranean flare. This place is creatively pleasing to the eyes in more way than you can immagine. Well how so? Well, this is where Baltimore good looking list frequent to quench their thirst, savoring those perfectly concocted coktails that will land you straight on the floor. Professionals from around the city tend to gravitate to the allure and sexiness of Pazo.
The bar offers some of the largest most thought out cocktail list in the city, with a tad of appeal for just about anyone. The bartenders aim to please and will mix whatever concoction your mind might immagine. It is unreservedly exciting to be in a well conceived atmosphere that serves to an unambigious duality, and that is to serve some phenomenal Mediterranean/ Spanish Fare and attrack the sexiest in the city to hop to some beat thumping music on the weekends.
My last visit's experience was superb!
I must point out the lighly battered eggplant (and I am not an eggplant person lover, whatsoever), deliciously crispy on the outside and a pleasantly surpprising soft inside, the eggplant practicaly melts aways in your mouth giving your taste buds an orgasmic experience ( I am talking about eggplant!). Next is the ceviche with Jicama wich is just formidable, deliciously sinful. I have had plenty ceviche in my lifetime and this one tops them all. It is just so light and summery. Generally speaking ceviche tends to be overly lemony, this one as is paired with the Jicama escapes such fault. The wood grilled lamb chop I must admit is a big tease, melts in your mouth and leaves you high and dry wishing for more. To top my experience is most definitively the best dish I had that night and that is the lamb sausage ravioli, perfectly lightly cooked and sprinkled with a delicious light sauce.
Overall the food here at Pazo is confortably Mediterranean with meticulous thought to detail in every aspect, from techniche to presentation. It leaves you desiring for more or to try more, but essentially satisfying the most complex Mediterranean palates out there.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Pollo Campero
1355 E. University Blvd
Takoma Park, MD 20912
(301) 408-0555
Probably one of the best latin chicky you will ever have.
I first heard of Campero from a Salvadorenan friend who always commented of the many latinos bringing into the airplanes ridiculous amounts of chicken on board and having the plane smell like the chicken.
Well, when the first campero opened close to 7 Corners VA, (where there is a high population of latinos), the lines were so long for weeks that I waited a couple of months to go and check the place out.
At last I was hooked!!
I must say Popeyes, KFC do not compare.
It is definitively better if eaten hot in the establishment!!
Takoma Park, MD 20912
(301) 408-0555
Probably one of the best latin chicky you will ever have.
I first heard of Campero from a Salvadorenan friend who always commented of the many latinos bringing into the airplanes ridiculous amounts of chicken on board and having the plane smell like the chicken.
Well, when the first campero opened close to 7 Corners VA, (where there is a high population of latinos), the lines were so long for weeks that I waited a couple of months to go and check the place out.
At last I was hooked!!
I must say Popeyes, KFC do not compare.
It is definitively better if eaten hot in the establishment!!
Friday, September 10, 2010
Ethiopic Restaurant
401 H St N E
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 675-2066
Category: Ethiopian
Neighborhood: H Street Corridor/Atlas District/Near Northeast
11/19/2010 2 Check-ins Here
This is the first and only Ethiopian restaurant on the H st corridor.
The place is very airy and tastefully decorated. A large bar sits at the end of the main dining room, where any "poison" of your liking could be put together. They also offer a great selection of Ethiopian beers (that can be quite potent).
The service is phenomenal, I love it when the waiter has a great smile and is friendly and knowledgiable of what they serve and make adequate recommendations on what you like and not on what they like.
Beware!!! Ethiopian food can be quite spicy (something I love), you can let your waiter/ress know of how much heat you can handle.
As they just recently opened and they do not have an appetizer list yet, they serve a lovely aromatic bread with some lovely dipey spicey olive oil on the house. For dinner my friend and I ordered the Awaze tibs, wich is mandatory (at least for me) to have it with as much hot spice as my body can handle. We also shared the vegetarian platter for one. Needless to say the portions are huge, we could have fed at least four people with our food. I have visited many Ethiopian places in DC and the one and only in Baltimore and I must say this is one of the best ones I have been so far.
The meat from the tibs was chunky and flavorfull, none of the ultra mushy shredded beef stuff that can be served in other places. The vegetarian platter was an array of lentils, collard greens, tomatoe salad and a few other wonderfully flavored vegetables. A nice bottle of Tej, Ethiophian honey wine is also imperative.
For desert we were greated with a lovely flan on the house...I mean extremely nice of them and exquisite!! Almost as good as my mother's.
I read a review on here about this place not being really for children, just because they opted to leave their kids behind and wanted quiet time. Given the right time, families come here as well a young couples out on a lovely date. It is a very mix ambiance, and that is one of the great things that make this place appealing. Night out or family dinner...it doesn't matter, this place is great!
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 675-2066
Category: Ethiopian
Neighborhood: H Street Corridor/Atlas District/Near Northeast
11/19/2010 2 Check-ins Here
This is the first and only Ethiopian restaurant on the H st corridor.
The place is very airy and tastefully decorated. A large bar sits at the end of the main dining room, where any "poison" of your liking could be put together. They also offer a great selection of Ethiopian beers (that can be quite potent).
The service is phenomenal, I love it when the waiter has a great smile and is friendly and knowledgiable of what they serve and make adequate recommendations on what you like and not on what they like.
Beware!!! Ethiopian food can be quite spicy (something I love), you can let your waiter/ress know of how much heat you can handle.
As they just recently opened and they do not have an appetizer list yet, they serve a lovely aromatic bread with some lovely dipey spicey olive oil on the house. For dinner my friend and I ordered the Awaze tibs, wich is mandatory (at least for me) to have it with as much hot spice as my body can handle. We also shared the vegetarian platter for one. Needless to say the portions are huge, we could have fed at least four people with our food. I have visited many Ethiopian places in DC and the one and only in Baltimore and I must say this is one of the best ones I have been so far.
The meat from the tibs was chunky and flavorfull, none of the ultra mushy shredded beef stuff that can be served in other places. The vegetarian platter was an array of lentils, collard greens, tomatoe salad and a few other wonderfully flavored vegetables. A nice bottle of Tej, Ethiophian honey wine is also imperative.
For desert we were greated with a lovely flan on the house...I mean extremely nice of them and exquisite!! Almost as good as my mother's.
I read a review on here about this place not being really for children, just because they opted to leave their kids behind and wanted quiet time. Given the right time, families come here as well a young couples out on a lovely date. It is a very mix ambiance, and that is one of the great things that make this place appealing. Night out or family dinner...it doesn't matter, this place is great!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
An Loi
7104 Minstrel Way
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 381-3188
Craving a nice bowl of Pho? If in the area, An Loi is your place to go. Lunch time is extremely packed, but the line moves fast and steady. I have never had a wait, even though the place is always hopping.
The service is friendly and ultra fast. You will have your bowl of pho served within 5 minutes of your order guaranteed. The space is ample and very minimalistic, table chairs and the various pho accompaniaments. Nothing fancy.
The pho is always fresh and made in premises, served with fresh basil, jalapeno and bean sprouts. Its deliciously savory sweet flavours will warm you up on a cold winter day or release the heat of a hot summer day. The noodles and meat are always abundant and not a scavanger hunt as in other pho places.
Pho is not the only thing served here, an array of lovely Vietnamese entrees and appetizers are in order at An Loi. Furthermore you can accompany your lunch or dinner with a great selection of asian beers and rice wines.
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 381-3188
Craving a nice bowl of Pho? If in the area, An Loi is your place to go. Lunch time is extremely packed, but the line moves fast and steady. I have never had a wait, even though the place is always hopping.
The service is friendly and ultra fast. You will have your bowl of pho served within 5 minutes of your order guaranteed. The space is ample and very minimalistic, table chairs and the various pho accompaniaments. Nothing fancy.
The pho is always fresh and made in premises, served with fresh basil, jalapeno and bean sprouts. Its deliciously savory sweet flavours will warm you up on a cold winter day or release the heat of a hot summer day. The noodles and meat are always abundant and not a scavanger hunt as in other pho places.
Pho is not the only thing served here, an array of lovely Vietnamese entrees and appetizers are in order at An Loi. Furthermore you can accompany your lunch or dinner with a great selection of asian beers and rice wines.
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