More than a Bite at Bouchon, Las Vegas

I could eat bread and butter everyday. I could, I really, really could. Especially, fresh warm bread from which I can become stupefied just from inhaling the remnants of its perfume. You know the kind - it keeps you mesmerized, and completely in awe, although you try to conceal your delight. Break off a small piece of bread and admire it. It appears to be simple. It seems straight forward enough, just sitting there awaiting your attention. I am certain, however, that somehow the crusty outside is just a drug in disguise, as it leads me to the moment I realize that I absolutely cannot live without this seemingly simplest of foods. I mean really. In reality, this precious piece is somewhat mysterious. It's a bit like the Mona Lisa. I ask myself, "How is the outside so perfectly golden, and nearly buttery, but still just a bit chewy?" I smile at it, and it smiles back. It is strong enough to conceal the secret of the lusciously tender inside, that the only way to make it even more delectable is to slather it with a fresh, creamy, and smooth butter. This is the point, I absolutely cannot stop myself. Nor do I try to. Then I am gratefully plied with warm pistachios and a smidge of wine, and there is nothing that can be wrong in this world. I am sitting in a restaurant that is open and airy, although within moments of sitting, there is somehow a coziness that ensues. Nothing is too loud, or too obtrusive. Linen covered tables, with paper on top, creates an air of elegance without being too fancy. It's as if the paper is to take the pressure off of any type of accidental spill. The servers work as a nearly psychic synchronized swim team. Their performance is graceful, well-timed and hardly creates a splash. It's the kind of place you sort of imagine appealing to a French Great Gatsby. And for awhile, I just go ahead and pretend. I have another confession. I have an absolute obsession with restaurants which are a little bit - now please understand - imperfect. Don't get me wrong, every aspect here is very good, absolutely lovely and endearing, but not too excessively refined, solely for the sake of meticulousness. More often than not, I want to feel as though I can drop a crumb of bread, enjoy the conversation of my fellow diners, without feeling too overburdened by minding my manners, sitting up gracefully, and essentially feeling somewhat comfortable. A place I could eat everyday. Therein lies the difference. Imperfectly perfect. A casual presentation of the paper menu, like a little gift, waiting for you to unwrap it's surprises. It's cute, but it will get wrinkled, and I just love that. Its imperfections are built in. Jeff and surroundings. I could gush about everything, like the not too intricately tiled floor. Nothing is too opulent, albeit beautiful nonetheless. Bouchon actually refers to a traditional type of restaurant in Lyon, which specializes in the meats, and pâté's of the region. It is not haute cuisine at all, and there are only twenty genuinely certified bouchon in the area. The certification for authenticity must be donned by the Authentiques Bouchons Lyonnais. While the French word bouchon commonly refers to the stopper of a bottle, the bouchon restaurants are believed to have derived their name from the 16th century expression for a bunch of twisted straw, which was placed on the signs to indicate restaurants for the silk workers. The tradition began when small inns were visited by silk workers traveling through Lyon. Moules et frites. Or more correctly, moules au safran et a la moutarde. It is impossible to say that the fries are anything but perfect. These are absolutely perfect fries. Crunchy and light. I am certain that these could not be improved, although I'll very happily enjoy those too, but there is a lightness, with just a hint of salt which might possibly make these the world's best fries. In this case, it is a mere requirement, a duty perhaps, in which as many fries as possible simply must be consumed. If I must, I suppose. The mussels were equally extraordinary. The quality of the mussels is remarkable. Complete, melt in your mouth buttery-goodness. Not that they were smothered in butter, in fact the white wine, saffron and mustard broth they were steamed in, did not detract from the beauty of the mussels, but instead it delicately enhanced their freshness and flavour. Steak frites. Again, the most perfect of fries. With an equally perfect steak. Again, something appearing simple. But of course it is not. Jeff shared a bite, albeit begrudgingly, and it was one of the juiciest steaks we've ever tasted, butter aside. It was discretely seasoned, and incredibly flavourful. (Yes, we are from Alberta, but our best beef is usually shipped abroad) My Mother's croque-madame. Just as fabulous as can be. My Father's truite aux amandes. Pan-roasted trout with almonds, brown butter and haricots verts. This was our first dinner at Thomas Keller's Bouchon, Las Vegas. This was our second meal at Bouchon. Here is meal one. Jeff and I returned for meal three on Christmas Day.
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Batali's Enoteca San Marco, Las Vegas

This was our first foray into Mario Batali and Bastianich-land this trip, and it was just as I had anticipated. Everything was very good; not a single dish which did not at least please. This started with the bread - the only traditional Italian, virtually burnt and tasteless bread, I've ever had outside of Italy. Things were looking up. I have happily released my apprehensions of the some of the terrible reviews of Enoteca San Marco, which seem to be a bit unwarranted. Most importantly, this is supposed to be a casual place, really a wine bar. It's supposed to be a little bit like eating at home, nothing too fancy or contrived. It does happen to have main entrées, but there is a definite emphasis on sharing antipasti. Enoteca San Marco is located in a corner of the Piazza San Marco, in the Venetian hotel and casino, and is supposed to feel a bit lively as it is intended to feel outdoors, with camera-happy passersby, gelateria's, entertainers, and gondoliers. This is not a place for a quiet, intimate experience, unless perhaps "inside" the restaurant doors. There is a certain element of this fake spectacle, which needs to be taken in stride. After all, spectacle and excess are the essence of the Las Vegas strip. This is Vegas, after all, so the prices are not rock bottom. However, four of us were more than satisfied for just over $200 including a fantastic bottle of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. Not bad anywhere, never mind Las Vegas. Since it was one of our first dinners in Vegas, it didn't seem like a big deal to have 100 wines less than $100. However, after dining at other restaurants, where there were over a thousand bottles of wine with only eight bottles of wine under $100, this list can be appreciated a bit more. I'm all for good wine, but I have to draw the line somewhere. As mentioned, the bread would probably seem to many, as completely lifeless and probably inedible. Enoteca San Marco, does however, attempt to improve this bread of the povere, poor, by wrapping it in paper and it is served warm, and therefore, still soft. In Italy, bread is served at the beginning of the meal, but is hardly ever eaten until the end of the meal, and mostly to mop up sauces. Try it, rip off a little piece, and clean off the plate with that perfectly toasted crust which adds additional body to anything left. The traditional bread has no preservatives, and no salt, and is very dense. It is not meant to be eaten by itself. It is almost like a sponge. It is a vessel used to amplify the flavours of something else, and not to detract from it. To start, we ordered caponata (left), roasted beets (top), and brussel sprouts with pecorino (bottom). Most often, restaurants focus on meats and an inexpensive carbohydrate, perhaps only the occasional salad with spring mix, so it is refreshing to have an new interpretation of vegetables which require finesse, and fresh ingredients. I am quite certain that my feelings will cloud any type of critical judgment. I loved these little simple dishes. The eggplant was complimented by pine nuts, raisins, and capers. The eggplant itself was not overcooked or soggy, but retained a somewhat meaty texture. The dish was salty and sweet all in one, and therefore an instantly satisfying. The beets were paired with saba, a cousin to balsamic, complimenting the beets with an enjoyable sweet tang. The texture of the beets was a little more cooked than I would have liked, but still acceptable. The brussel sprouts were a complete surprise. They were served raw, thinly sliced, and tossed with a nearly equal amount of pecorino cheese. This dish is completely understated, and unusual, but fabulous. It seems like it couldn't possibly be good, but then the next thing you know, you are craving it and you didn't even know that you liked brussel sprouts much at all. A simple preparation as this, makes for a fantastic dish. The second round of shared dishes, featured several fritti or fried tastes. This included arancine (left), gnocco fritto (bottom), a mozzarella and anchovy fried sandwich (right, and top left), which came with some thinly sliced and lightly dressed fennel. The arancine were very crunchy as they should be, although a tad too salty for me. The inside was very soft, with a saffron-tomato type of risotto. I prefer the inside to have a firmer consistency. The gnocco fritto, essentially fried dough, were my only disappointment with the meal, and they were good. Gnocco-fritto are served at virtually every restaurant in Bologna, and Emilia-Romagna to commence the meal. I have only enjoyed them as little squares, which appear like ravioli, like there is something inside. Then you bite into it, and discover the tastiest little pillow of joy imaginable. There is nothing inside, but air. They must be served warm, and should instantly dissolve into nothingness, a heavenly experience for the palate. They are often served with a little salami, or prosciutto. The gnocco-fritto here were shaped a little like fries, and didn't melt away into nothing as I had hoped. Although, this was different take on gnocco fritto altogether, and if I had no prior experience with the traditional gnocco-fritto, this would be just fine. The mozzarella and anchovy sandwich had a crispy fried outside, with a soft-chewy inside. It was very rich, but perfect with wine. The anchovies are nicely tucked inside, and are noticeable, but not overwhelming. I do have to say that my Dad ate it, and while I think he would have scrunched up his face in disgust (he's not the most adventurous) had we really pointed out that there were anchovies; he ate it and liked it. And didn't find out there were anchovies, until we told him the next day. He said it was good! The thinly sliced fennel was a refreshing touch with all this fried food. Just simple. Dad had these meatballs and polenta. No complaints. Jeff had the cannelloni, and while it looks a bit toasty, he said it was a "very good cannelloni". I ordered the bucatini all'Amatriciana, a sauce of tomato, cured pork and onion. This dish looks so simple, but it was very deeply flavourful. I did not have a chance to ask which pork had been used, but it seemed like more than just pancetta, perhaps guanciale. The dish also had a slight kick from red onions. The pasta was perfectly cooked. There is not much more to say, other than it was an all round great dish. Mom ordered the casareccia con Zucca. It lovingly combined butternut squash, smoked ricotta and toasted hazelnuts. This dish is fantastic. Butternut squash and hazelnuts are a classic combination, but not often as simply stated as this dish is. Each part was prepared as it should be. She loved it, and so did I... We would have decided to forgo dessert, except that an apple-basil gelato was calling Jeff's name. But so was this peanut butter and roasted banana gelato, with bananas, caramel sauce, a peanut butter cookie, and peanuts. Very creamy gelato, very nice. Below has Jeff's peanut butter concoction on the left, the apple-basil gelato in the front, and a trio of chocolate, hazelnut, and creme fraiche gelati. They were all very good, and none too excessively sweet. However, the apple-basil gelato stood apart from the others. It captured the essence of green apples and the basil without becoming too overwhelming, and was delicious despite the somewhat unusual pairing. A lovely way to cleanse the palate before sauntering back into the shopping maze of "Venice".
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Why we chose Las Vegas for a Christmas vacation.

I somewhat despise excess. Anything too run of the mill, fake, or contrived. It might seem that Las Vegas would be the last place I would chose for a vacation, nevermind a vacation over Christmas. While Las Vegas could be seen as more commercial than say, a sleigh-ride in the woods, it's not half bad either. You can eat, and sleep and be merry. You'll notice that I didn't say gamble, but that's just me. The seven reasons we chose Las Vegas for a vacation: 1. Our family could easily visit us from Arizona. 2. There are fabulous restaurants and hotels. Relaxing. No phone calls, no cooking, no cleaning. 3. Las Vegas has pretty good odds of being warmer than Calgary, Canada. The possibility of a temperature of -30°C in Vegas is unlikely. 4. A flight to Vegas is a straight shoot. 5. People-watching. 6. Shopping. 7. Walk-ability. We can walk, and walk, and walk.
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Las Vegas in the Afternoon, or is it Venice?

This is definitely not Venice, so don't get insulted. But there are a few similarities, at least in photos. If you have been to the Venetian, but not to Venice, well, you might be in for a bit of a shock. It's the first day in Vegas, and we didn't gamble one bit. Instead we ate, walked, and shopped. Unfortunately, I can't say the stores are too busy. Actually, completely dead would be more accurate, and it's the last Sunday before Christmas. It's a bit worrisome, as I'm not sure how retailers are going to make it, but I'll take the sales while I can get them. The tower at the Venetian. If you haven't been to Venice, this would be entirely believable. Although, I have to admit, the tower, is a pretty good replica at a glance! The Grand Canal. Many shops to peruse, or hop in a gondola for a ride. The Doges' Palace.
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on the ground in Las Vegas, the Venetian and Bouchon

Jeff and I finally arrived in Vegas last night, albeit very late. And while we were hungry, we just decided to opt for sleep instead. We feel like we are sleeping like kings for the week! The palatial marble bathroom at the Venetian Hotel. If only the tv weren't stuck on only one channel because a previous guest placed a "parent lock" on it. But I think I can make do with the other two in the other room, it's over the top.  The room is expansive, with a sunken living room to top things off. This doesn't have much to do with food of course, but sometimes it is fun to dream plan the next vacation while at the computer. Virtually starving by this point, we headed to Bouchon for brunch. There will have to be a second post, as I brought the wrong lens, so I'm not thrilled with the other photos. Oh darn, we'll have to go back. And it's a beautiful atmosphere to have to go back to, with a gorgeous bar, a vaulted ceiling, tiled floors, and well it's simply classically French. Elegant. Our server promptly brought a beautiful bread with a fabulously creamy butter, and strawberry jam. Absolutely fabulous. I had a very good coffee, and Jeff enjoyed his cappuccino. I ordered the french toast, which more closely resembles a layered pastry made from brioche and carmelized apples. It is divine, but very, very sweet, with ample maple syrup. Jeff ordered the croque-madame, and it was phenomenally tasty. I don't know how virtually perfect brioche with a fried egg, cheese, and ham can get any better, but this mornay sauce does a pretty darn good job. Then there's the fries. If I were a potato, this is how I would want to die. Perfection. Since then, we shopped, and shopped and shopped. More updates later!
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with a slight delay

I love wi-fi. Here we are still in the Calgary airport waiting for Jeff's Dad to be kind enough to collect us, as our flight is now delayed until 7:50pm, from 8:40am. But I'm still able to post, it's pretty absurd really! So now the first eat is a late-night dinner at Sushi Samba in the Palazzo Hotel, and we're talking late-night. Until later. xox
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Vegas Baby!

Yes, I know it's snowing in Las Vegas. Or at least, it was snowing there yesterday. But we are at the airport awaiting departure. It shouldn't be more than a few hours until the adventure begins, so expect updates shortly! There's only one real problem; Jeff wants to start with a pastry from Payard, and I want dim-sum from Zine, in the Palazzo. Delectable difficulties, oh darn! p.s. towing a new Canon 5D MarkII !
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trophy cupcakes for trophy wives

Everyone loves cupcakes. It seems that Sarah Jessica Parker and the gals influenced our sense of fashion, and our taste and yearning for delightfully iced pastries. But somehow, I am not won over; I absolutely can't stand cupcakes. I just don't get it. That being said, if anyone can do justice to a cupcake, Trophy Cupcakes in Seattle are pretty darn close. Trophy is actually very, very close to having created something that is not only beautiful and elegant, but most importantly, almost tasty. Preface: Where does this distaste for cupcakes come from? From eating bad cupcakes; cupcakes gone wrong. Chalky icing, and dry cake. It's not good, it's just not. I know there are hundreds and thousands of beautifully designed shops, websites, and very good blogs solely dedicated to praising and uplifting these little cakes. And at first, all this hoopla seems like such good fun, like a girlie sleepover with pillow fights. All innocent and fun. But then you realize that this isn't just a pillow fight, it's all out war; you taste the cupcake, savour the flavour, and discover that there is nothing of any substance there at all. Ok, so I'm biased. I was hoping Trophy Cupcakes would cure me of this strange illness, but alas, while it was close, I did not find a cupcake distaste vaccine -yet. I do like Trophy Cupcakes, as in I think it is about as good as it gets with flavours like chai cardamom and peanut butter and jelly. It is hard not to get caught up in all the fun. The shop is beyond adorable, and it's downright addicting. The glimmering glass display cases, café feel, and diner-like seating area. It's well done. For mommies & daddies with kids, it can't be beat. Not only are the cupcakes featured as little works of art, but Trophy has coolest party favours, and loot bag stuffers anywhere. You will find most anything necessary to throw the perfect kiddie party, and they are willing to customize decorations if need be. There are letterpress cards (a personal obsession of mine) for those adults in tow as well. In case the cupcakes aren't cute enough as is, there are cupcake decorations too. If cupcakes are your thing, Trophy Cupcakes is probably your mecca. Jeff fell for the fresh lemon butter cake cupcake with tangy lemon buttercream, and I swooned for the chocolate graham cracker: valrhona chocolate cake with a bitter sweet chocolate and graham cracker crust topped with toasted marshmallow. It was on Martha Stewart! Now, as cupcakes go, they were good, very, very good. The icing on Jeff's was quite flavourful, but still had a little bit of the chalkiness I despise. There was less emphasis on the lemon in the cake, which was also a little dry. However, it was still better than many other cupcakes out there, and a step in the right direction. The chocolate graham cracker is essentially a s'more cupcake, and it's a brilliant idea. The top reminds me of fancy French pastries, and it is a million times better than it looks. I swear. I think I really like this cupcake because it is hardly a cupcake at all; the top was not too sweet, and had a fantastically light and spoon-able texture. The cake itself was also pretty good, as it had a deep cocoa overtone, but not too sweet. Once again, the dryness wasn't bad, but still apparent. While I do still have a disdain for cupcakes, this must be at least be the right idea with a little flavour and a lot of love, perhaps there is hope for the dry cake, and for my lack of cupcake affection. Maybe there's hope for me yet. Daily cupcakes: $2.99 each, $33 dozen. *Specials: $3.25-$3.50 each Trophy Cupcakes, 1815 N. 45th Street, Suite No 209, Seattle, (206) 632-7020 Above: Lemon cupcake The tempting display counter, and flirtatious awning: Some pretty hip bevvies being served - including matcha latte's, and one of my favourite's - Dry Soda: Chocolate graham cracker cupcake: valrhona chocolate cake with a bitter sweet chocolate and graham cracker crust topped with toasted marshmallow:
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aspen - the last chapter

If you only have one day in Aspen, it's going to be a busy one. You'll need some hiking gear, biking gear, and your finest understated yet flattering fashions. While Aspen is famous for it's skiing, the summer more than exceeds expectations in every possible way. Start off at Ink! Coffee for the caffeine injection of your choice - you'll need it. If you haven't found the right rocket fuel to start your day there, devour a granola and vanilla yogurt parfait from Zele Cafe a few blocks away; it's loaded with fruit. While taking in the morning sunshine, pick up a free copy of the Aspen Times, or an Aspen housing magazine and become delirious while laughing away the cost of housing in Aspen. It's time for a hike. Ask anyone, where the Ute trail is, and be prepared to breathe heavily. Aspen is at 7900 feet, making it one of the most precarious airports to land, asides from accidentally running into a Gulfstream, as there is hardly any descent to the runway -- but also a fitness fanatic paradise. At elevation, you will work hard, and your efforts will be rewarded by loose-fitting pants, lean-mean muscle, and most importantly - glorious food to enjoy. Be sure to take a bottle of water, or a camel-bak if you decide to hike all the way up the mountain, as the Ute is only part of the way. If you make it to the top, attempt to take a deep breath, smile at your accomplishment and the vista, then fortunately for your knees, you can also take the gondola back down into town. There are many other hikes around, ask a local, or stop in a sporting goods shop, and they will point you in the right direction. Nothing is easy, but that's the best part. The gondola will drop you off near Big Wrap, one of the best values in town. For $6.70 + tax, pick up a savoury wrap, such as the Mr. Potato Head, which includes fresh roasted potatoes, spinach, grilled portobello mushrooms, pinto beans, jasmine rice, salsa, lettuce, cheese, with a roasted garlic vinaigrette in a whole wheat wrap. My favourite, is Rock Your World with fresh roasted turkey breast, confetti slaw (jicama, carrot, cucumber, green onion), lettuce, sprouts, guacamole, ranch dressing, and toasted pumpkin seeds in whole wheat. For further satiation, ice cream is a summer afternoon necessity. Paradise Bakery is the place, just follow the line. The peanut butter cookie, and chocolate brownie ice creams include their fabulous baked products, in creamy, dreamy ice cream, and are served with a mini chocolate chip oatmeal cookie. The muffins are scrumptious too. While Paradise Bakery is a chain, there aren't many ice cream shops that frequently have bassoon(!) or string quartets performing in the summer air. Now it's time for a quick change into cycling attire, and head up to Maroon Bells, just off the traffic circle (trust me, there's really only one). Maroon Bells is one of the most frequently photographed images anywhere, and often visited by tourists, but not by car. It is a road-bike ride with minimal traffic as it is accessible by bike or bus only. It is a definite climb, but well worth the effort, if not just for the racy downhill portion of the ride. Alternately, the entire morning can be rearranged to cycle a much further distance, but somewhat easier ride, and enjoy lunch at Pine Creek Cookhouse. A summer sojourn in Aspen would not be complete without enjoying a concert at the Aspen Music Festival and School. All the concerts are good, so don't worry too much, if you can only make one. It features the best of the best - the best young musicians to international starlings such as Canadian Measha Brueggergosman, John Zirbel, and Joaquin Valdepenas, to Yefim Bronfman, Sarah Chan, and Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg. Even if you aren't sure of what to do at an orchestral concert, you will be dazzled and amazed, if even only by the fashion, and by the tent itself. It's not exactly a tent, but more of a semi-permanent structure, of higher quality than most concert halls. Finally, it is time to relax. Reserve a table at Montagna, located within the Little Nell, a Relais & Chateaux. Enjoy an aperitivo at the bar, the negroni are quite good, or save yourself for Master sommelier Richard Betts fine wine picks. A table outside near the pool can be lovely, and inside is equally enchanting, elegant and refined. You are in for a treat. Just to tease, the butter is sprinkled with fleur-de sel. It is a hotel, yes, but the food is strikingly good, with an emphasis on local products. Of the two nights we were here, the chef's farmhouse tasting menu, is to die for and a steal at $42 for three courses. Local vegetables, melt in your mouth pork with herbed pappardelle, and peach crepes to finish. It changes nightly. The second night we opted for a la carte, and were not disappointed. As expected, the service is impeccable. Above - porchetta with zucchini and chili Homemade lamb sausage with rapini and mustard: Ribeye with porcini, parmigiano-reggiano, and arugula: Pistachio gelato, chocolate-hazelnut gelato, with fabulously fresh local cherries: If further hiking time in Aspen is not an option, try to swing a drive up to Independence Pass. Make sure your car has turbo, or one can invariably be left to walk back down. The views, and race-track driving possibilities are well worth the effort. Finally, to conclude the day, take a stroll around town and gaze into glowing shop windows. A little window-shopping, and star-gazing, is just the way to end a delightful summer day. Ink! Coffee 520 E Durant St. - Downstairs (970) 544-0588 Zele Cafe 121 S Galena St. Aspen (970) 925-5745 Big Wrap 520 E Durant Av. Aspen - Downstairs (970) 544-1700 Paradise Bakery 320 S Galena St. Aspen (970) 925-7585 Aspen Music Festival and School Pine Creek Cookhouse 314 South 2nd Street (970) 925-1044 Montagna, at the Little Nell 675 E Durant Ave. 888.843.6355 For more info on eats: EatAspen Big Wrap video (not mine):
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delicious ChikaLicious Dessert Bar, nyc

ChikaLicious gets straight to the point. Dessert. And a very sweet point it is. Three courses of artful proportions beginning with an amuse bouche, a dessert of your choice, and petits fours. It enhances the experience to include a wine-pairing, or savour an organic coffee or tea. Chika, the pastry chef, and Don, the sommelier, ensure that very few details go unkempt. The space itself is almost stark-white to focus the eye to the stage at hand - to the preparations by Chika and her assistant. They work as nimble and deftly as possible, occasionally chatting with the curious ogling onlookers, as fascinated by the desserts as intrigued by the artistic process. Intricate details and plating techniques are delicately executed, creating the "perfect afternoon delight." Be sure to coordinate a visit appropriately, the demand is high for a dessert of this caliber without having to wade through multiple courses at a 4-star restaurant with the commendable goal of reaching dessert, and then immediately calling your broker, "sell, sell, sell!" This requires a necessary sense of determination to go out of your way and learn the iPhone's scheduling software and trek to ChikaLicious. Although it is too bad, to those without a tad of patience to wait in line, or willing or able to go early enough to think of ChikaLicious as a necessary pre-dinner evil; think tea-time. Or not, perhaps then there will be a seat left for the rest of us, as there are only 20 intimate seats. Get there early to secure a coveted seat at the counter. If waiting is not possible, or Chika is having an extremely well-deserved day off, then head to the Dessert Club, across the street to stave off a potential dessert drought. ChikaLicious Dessert Bar (203 E. 10th St.), Open Thu.-Sun. 3pm to 10:45pm., Closed Monday - Wednesday Above: stawberry soup with balsamic jelly, and honey lace crisp. Below: profiteroles with espresso granita Refreshing watermelon with coconut sorbet: Coconut marshmellows, mango and lime gels, chocolate pudding kisses:
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Clinton St. Bakery, New York City

Brunch in New York is a big deal. Seriously, everyone goes out for Sunday brunch. Sure, Anthony Bourdain says brunch only exists as a restaurants way to use up leftovers (beware of omelettes with bolognese sauce), but what if the place kinda specializes in brunch? While Clinton St. Bakery doesn't only have brunch, they do also serve their blueberry pancakes at dinner. And while every other plate of food I saw looked divine, and tempting -- after trying the pancakes, there's no going back - even though Clinton St. has also had their biscuits, muffins, and their burger voted "the best". The first time I headed to Clinton St., it was because they have eggs benedict with Petrossian smoked salmon - on a biscuit! Now, that is how eggs benedict should be done (although Iberico ham, could be killer too), irregardless of fear about salmonella infestation. Now, these biscuits aren't just any biscuits, they are very light, buttery, and most importantly to me at that moment - big. Yum. The next visit, I ate the same thing. But Jeff ordered the famous pancakes. And so, I had to taste them, of course! It's a good thing he'd hardly eaten any of them yet, or I'm sure he would have reluctantly clung to his plate, like a lion that's guarding its prey. I once read somewhere, that the pancakes are so fluffy because the eggs are separated and then they beat the whites. I've tried it, it failed, and I'm still addicted to Clinton St. So now, I always get the pancakes. I'll even wait for the pancakes. When you go to Clinton St. Bakery (on Clinton St.), be prepared to wait at least an hour or more. The Lower East Side of New York will keep you entertained; there's an adorable pastry shop up the street with pear & chocolate turnovers, or check out a few vintage shops. Maybe one day, I'll venture onto the truffled fried eggs, or the lobster BLT. Sounds great. But perfect pancakes? With fresh wild maine blueberries and maple butter? Sign me up. Clinton St. Baking Co. & Restaurant, 4 Clinton Street (btw. East Houston & Stanton), New York, NY 10002, 646-602-6263
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24 hours in Seaview, Washington

It seems that not many people go to Seaview, and I found this a little surprising, as it has North America's longest sandy beach and tasty seafood to boot. To be honest, it is on an absolutely gorgeous peninsula with a little sun and a good breeze to highlight any child's golden locks. Traipsing between towns, beaches and bakeries, there is little left to desire for a nice sojourn. Somehow, everything seems a little "untouched", as if we are wandering where no tourist has gone before, just lucky travelers. Perhaps we just hit it on an "off" year, but it is the quaint solitude of this place which makes it immensely enjoyable to visit. While I wouldn't exactly say that it was a fluke we ended up here, but somehow, I found the Shelburne Inn with many splendid reviews of its hospitality and delicious breakfasts. We were on the way to Seattle, and not even knowing exactly where Seaview was, we knew it had to be close enough as a little reprieve from driving before hitting Seattle. The historical Shelburne Inn: A beautifully plated breakfast: When I told Jeff to "Go fly a kite", he actually could, thanks to Above It All Kites of Long Beach, Washington, which is just up the street from Seaview. He was just like a kid in a kite store. Although this kite was no joke; with two strings, it was lifting Jeff off the ground with sheer force. He was absolutely giddy. An enjoyable and fun lunch can be found at Julie's Loose Caboose Diner. It's a kitschy kind of place, and in Seaview this is just what the doctor ordered. If travelling with a 5 year-old boy, I am sure he would be over the moon - eating in a styled train, with a toy train going around the restaurant: Just watch the little train go around the track, and try to decipher all the signatures on the $1 bills. Sure, it's a little bit tacky, but the food is alright, and while the clubhouse sandwich could have used fresh roasted turkey breast, the clam chowder (top) wasn't too shabby.The chowder was creamy, but not overly gritty, as the potatoes were not too starchy. Unfortunately, we didn't make it to the homemade berry pie, which sounded delicious -- touched up with a little rhubarb. There are many other great things to check out on the peninsula. There's the adorable little bakery and coffee shop in Oysterville, horseback riding on the beach, and dining at the Crabpot (hint: get the crab legs). In the very least, take someone to hold hands with and stroll along the beach.
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'inoteca, nyc

I have at least a slight inclination towards restaurants and shops that I wish I lived around the corner from, really, this is a strong preference for all the places I wish were just around the corner from my house. All of the best boulangerie's, gelateria's, patisserie's, and wine bars of the world, just seconds away on foot, or even a short subway ride away. But sadly, as wonderful as that sounds, this close proximity to all things wonderful, just might take out all the fun of travel and discovery. I should probably say discovery loosely, as I do love serendipitous jaunts while traveling, it is very hard to really discover something new. I do plan and read in advance. It's like my flirtation with the idea of travel, and builds excitement about an upcoming trip. Like life, I travel with certain planned destinations along the way. Then there are those points of interest, I had heard about but didn't plan to visit. But then, as you stand there reading a menu with swelling feet, and a growing appetite, you realize this was a destination meant to be all along. Somehow for me, 'intoeca, is one of those places. This past June, I didn't plan to return to 'inoteca, nor did I plan to eat here the first time I did in January 2006. Even though the menu sounded right up my alley, it just didn't grab me. But yet, I've still eaten here twice. When you see the place and the diners, you just want to join in. It's not a destination, until you realize, that it is everything you always wish for (but secretly would never let on) It's not fancy or complicated, and that's why I love it. Just a lot of very good things all on the same menu. The menu features wines by the glass, by the bottle, Italian cheeses, panini, tramezzini, and bruschette. There are also plates of fried items, plates of various items including lasagnette with eggplant or meatballs. There are also plates of a variety of salumi, and there are salads too. I love this menu; refreshingly, there is nothing on it I do not want to eat. The truffle egg toast is a splendid affair, as is the verdure misti (above). The culatello panini with noci and mozzarella, is rich and delicious. The panelle (chickpea fritters) were also tasty. Everything here is just a little bit more unusual (I wish it weren't so), and simply delicious. The dishes are satisfyingly full of flavour, but leave me yearning for more when I am thousands of miles away. Next time I am in New York, I will start my trip here. It's all good.
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Six89 in Carbondale, Part 1 & deux

I refuse to travel and eat exactly the same things I can eat at home. Then frankly, why bother going anywhere at all? The more I travel, I make it my goal, to purposefully go out of my way to find rare, unusual, or even bizarre things and places to eat while travelling. Okay, maybe not quite like Anthony Bourdain, just yet. I still prefer to accidentally choke on bugs only when I'm sleeping. Perhaps I just get bored easily, but I just don't see the point of eating exactly the same thing everywhere, and expect it to be the same. I think if I really needed that kind of consistency, I would choose a particular drive-thru restaurant found the world over, and at every interstate exit and mundane shopping mall food court, and never divert to any other hidden gem I would otherwise be missing out on. Chances are good, or I'm completely a naive optimist, that in every town, there is at least one ma & pa place with something delicious to eat. Made with love. Is that such a terrible quest? Or I may just as well stay home, and stick with what I know. Which isn't half bad, but sometimes you just gotta get off your tooshie and find something else good to eat. Go ahead, I dare you. Although, this really puts me in a bit of a conundrum; I also tend to prefer foods which are authentic, but then what can I even eat most of the time? What does authentic even mean anymore? Does this mean I should exclusively eat pizza in Naples? I don't think so. Then if I lived in Naples, I would have to forego sushi, pho, and falafel, and that's just plain wrong. I think in some other universe there just must be a good pizza in Californian-style, but there is also certainly a Neapolitan-styled pizza in California which is probably good too. (although, a part of me never wants me to admit that there could even possibly be a decent pizza pie with BBQ sauce on it, but I'm sure it exists, at least somewhere. OK, probably not). Luckily, there are places like Restaurant Six89 in Carbondale, Colorado. The ingredients are pretty much local, but the dishes are well, not from anywhere. They aren't fancy or exotic dishes. But just darn good stuff. Like really good stuff. And, in some ways, therein lies the absolutely terrible thing about traveling: it makes you want to go back! OK, maybe that's not such a bad thing, but let's face it; travel can screw you. It can mess with your head, your stomach, and your soul, and make you completely confused. You are forever changed, and completely incapacitated. Let's face it: really you're #^#(&#@$!. Yep, that's right. $#%^@*&. I haven't had any kids yet, but I know that when I do (gawd, my ma better not be reading this!), poor Jeff will have to cook his arse off, and I simply don't know where he's going to get his ingredients from (please Doug, and Julie?), but I bet that as a pregnant woman I will want everything that is impossible to get or make at home. Seriously, what if I "need" Chubby Hubby Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream (which you can't get in Canada, please start writing letters on my pathetic behalf), and then I "need" biscuits 'n fried chicken, and then I "need" steak tartar (which pregnant women are recommended not to eat) and then... I get into the list of things pregnant women "aren't" supposed to eat. Let's leave that for another day. In any case, I really enjoyed the food at Six89 in Carbondale. It wasn't complicated, or fussy. And I wish I had more pictures, but it was such a beautiful night...ahem...the first night (yes, we went back the very next day, and snagged a few pictures then) that we sat outside in the summer warmth and enjoyed the meal. It was too dark for any decent pictures, and I'm not a good flash photographer, plus this is still an Aspen crowd, and it would just be well...weird. Anyways, it went like this: first we got a nice little amuse buche (both nights), which was simple and delectable; a fresh rainier cherry stuffed with essentially a corn nut (yep, like you ate in high school, but the real deal), in a little bit of basil oil and syrupy balsamic. I ordered this great farm fresh egg (literally, I think the chickens were in the back, as Jeff noticed a chicken coop near our car) with a deeply flavourful hash with bacon, and chanterelles. I discovered I love chanterelles. I mean, really, I was mmmminng, and awwwing, and just would not shut up. I'm sure everyone there thought I was nuts, but hey, it was that good. Jeff wasn't sharing his dish either, so I know it was good (don't worry I still stole some!); he had something girlie with a manly twist like agnolotti and goat. He says the goat tasted like a finer version of lamb. What a manly description. We were just devouring everything, and one of the reason's Six89 is so fantastic, is that they really do only make what is fresh and seasonal. It is only a couple days later, and the website is already different (making this more difficult to do as accurately!). Then, I enjoyed Milagro ranch meatballs with lemon ricotta ravioli. The meatballs had a roasted tomato sauce, and a walnut parsley pesto on the ravioli. The meatballs? They were tender, and huge! I know size doesn't really matter, but these were good. Three of them. Jeff was lucky, and I gave him the last one since he shared a few bites of his dish. The ravioli were good too. I know it seems kinda weird to have what seems to be a lot of different flavours going on at the same time, but I liked it. It worked. Now, I admit, I kinda had a crush on Jeff's dish (yes, of course that's why we went back the next day!) of slow roasted Berkshire pork and anson mills stone ground grits with smoked mozzarella. This is what I had the next night (and it's the picture at the top). This stuff was really great! Nothing fancy, although it might look like it, just soft and gooey, and well, fatty-tasting. Good stuff. The second night, Jeff ordered the burger. And well, now, I can say that I thought it was a mistake at the time, but I didn't say so. I mean, everything there is local, or the restaurant made it. But as if, they are going to spend the time to make a damn good hamburger bun. Jeff says, "the hamburger bun was a day old piece of WuunderBread without the preservatives, so it didn't quite survive the trip. It disintegrated with any pressure, as it seemed to be made with faux eggs". Surprisingly, the other complaint he had, was that the burger too rich. With cambozola cheese, and nearly burnt red onions, it just needed a bit of moisture from tomato apparently. Jeff thought this would be a unique burger experience given everything else we've had, but it just didn't live up to his expectations. It's got a start, just not quite right yet. Instead, Jeff thinks it would be cool to find a plate with three or four mini burgers. Each one could feature a different ingredient: one with the cheese, with the onions, another with heirloom tomatoes etc. Sounds like fun, and fits the sharing part of Six89's menu. Somehow, we also ate a combination of three side dishes; truffled parmigiano fries, feta dumplings, and fava beans. These were good too, but we didn't finish them. Desserts were a distinct favourite and great value. Nutella semifreddo for $4.50? Is the joke on me? It was great, with a dollop of not too stiff whipped cream, and sweet dark cherries. Yes, we both ordered it - it had Nutella in it! (Can you blame us?) Then, the next night, I ordered the cinnamon donut with rhubarb strawberry cream. Not my favourite, but still good. The donut was pretty heavy and more like a gingerbread cookie. Jeff had the semifreddo...again. The infamous for the wrong reasons burger:
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