tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56303837069903567612024-03-13T14:41:39.512-04:00Fairfield County Food BytesThis blog was started by two high school graduates who simply love food. We enjoy trying new places, and figured we should share our thoughts with the rest of the world. Though this blog only currently features reviews of restaurants in Fairfield County, Connecticut, we invite everyone to stop by. We hope to continue reviewing restaurants in other cities such as Nashville, TN and Miami, FL while in college. In the meantime, enjoy FC Food Bytes for Southwestern CT cuisine!Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-59308301606386528872009-08-09T08:40:00.002-04:002009-08-09T08:49:51.989-04:00Christie's Country Store- PizzaHere's just a quick review of the pizza at Christie's Country Store in Westport. Being the closest food place to my house, I figured it'd be important to know what they're pizza was like (they even deliver). That's already points for convenience.<div><br /></div><div>So I ordered a small cheese pie (they have all the usual toppings). The pizza was a good size for $9. I mean I couldn't eat all of it so it wasn't a personal pizza or anything. Their dough is very thick for your traditional pizza- I'm a fan of thin crust- but the crust was crunchy and pretty good for its thickness. The pizza was very hot- I hope that means it was freshly made. </div><div><br /></div><div>Although I liked the thick, gooey mozzarella they used, there was simply too much of it. There was so much it outweighed the rest of the pizza and often fell off because there was so much of it. The cheese was also impossible to cut because it was so thick. </div><div><br /></div><div>My favorite part of the pizza was their sauce. The taste was decent but they put a lot of sauce on, which I love on my pizza. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the end, Christie's pizza is pretty decent, but if I had my choice of pizza in Westport I wouldn't go back to Christie's for their pizza. </div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-42035570490776931452009-08-08T09:23:00.004-04:002009-08-08T09:58:33.915-04:00Molecular Gastronomy<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sn2EE18wMQI/AAAAAAAAAD8/BQf7O6_FdSY/s1600-h/eggs.jpg"><br /></a></div>Molecular gastronomy is the term that's been tied to the new culinary field involving new techniques like using liquid nitrogen and agar agar to change the shape or texture of foods. While I'm all for simple dishes using your usual oven, these new techniques bring surprise to food. <div><br /></div><div>Chefs can do so much with these new science tools. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7t0EPGKpdM">Alinea</a> is one of the country's leading restaurants to use these. Click on the name for a behind-the-scenes video. </div><div><br /></div><div>Also in this field are two of my favorite chefs- Wylie <a href="http://www.wd-50.com/">Dufresne</a> and Richard <a href="http://www.flipburgerboutique.com/">Blais</a>. Who cares if I haven't ever eaten their food- their menus look awesome. Click their last names for their restaurants' sites. They're making foie gras milkshakes, powdered caramel that turns back into chewy caramel in your mouth, and crispy cream cheese. These chefs are taking flavors that seem to be a little odd, but that work remarkably well. </div><div><br /></div><div>Each dish looks to have a million different textures in it. I've yet to eat in any restaurant that uses these techniques, but just looking at the menu/photos makes me want to. I could go on forever talking about the "crazy" combinations they do. Just check this new cuisine out!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sn2EE18wMQI/AAAAAAAAAD8/BQf7O6_FdSY/s400/eggs.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367591549631738114" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 269px; height: 400px; " /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sn2EE18wMQI/AAAAAAAAAD8/BQf7O6_FdSY/s1600-h/eggs.jpg">Wylie Dufresne's take on eggs benedict</a><br /></div></div><div><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-51042886435232664992009-08-07T23:02:00.010-04:002009-08-10T11:11:27.734-04:00Archie Moore's Bar & Restaurant<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cbI18ZzQBILV2XJjO_rhcSfUcmQchqb50kV1gZtlVAZ7MUsVFtIthxZ-Xvws9M6KHFFJ05KvBK9WAwKmt6G3hRj5yugKnFvM6PyYhYgAO4bW1m6BjVHKhDw80kmwiS41fpMuD_HLbGA/s1600-h/Archie+Moore%27s.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367425706218854786" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 245px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 168px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cbI18ZzQBILV2XJjO_rhcSfUcmQchqb50kV1gZtlVAZ7MUsVFtIthxZ-Xvws9M6KHFFJ05KvBK9WAwKmt6G3hRj5yugKnFvM6PyYhYgAO4bW1m6BjVHKhDw80kmwiS41fpMuD_HLbGA/s320/Archie+Moore%27s.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div>Archie Moore’s Bar & Restaurant<br /><br />(203.256.9295) 48 Sanford Street Fairfield, CT 06430<br /><br /><br />Before I get into my first review, I would like to introduce myself as the newest contributor to FCfoodbytes. I am a recent Staples High School graduate who will be attending Duke University in the fall. My personal addition to the posts, parallel to Jordan’s numerical ratings, will be the “What I would get if I returned” section, which is fairly straightforward.<br /><br />Today I made my first visit to Archie Moore’s Bar & Restaurant in Fairfield. I had never heard of the place, but I was urged to go by my friend Dan who had a hankering for their famous Buffalo wings. Eventually, I was cajoled into coming, along with my friend Willys. As the three of us entered the restaurant, I immediately noticed the place’s college hangout feel. Fairfield University students were strewn among the many tables. The restaurant with filled with joyous noise that bounced off of the wooden interior. Vintage Coca-Cola posters, clocks, and signs peppered the walls. (My favorite was a sign over the bar that depicted two smiling kid’s faces and said “Welcome. Have a Coke.”) Wide-screen televisions showed the Yankees-Red Sox game to eagerly watching sports fans. The room was casual and cheerful.<br /><br />The wait staff seated us promptly and seemed legitimately happy to see us. We ordered a 14-wing plate to share along with an appetizer of six “burger bites” (sliders) and a plate of cheesy-jalapeño nachos. Each dish was extremely large, well worth the price paid for supposed appetizer portions. Moreover, the wings were superb. The Buffalo sauce was not overpowering, yet it had a zest that built to a spicy climax upon finishing each wing. Plus, the wings were particularly crisp on first bite. The nachos were also delicious. The tortilla chips were smothered with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. In fact, there was so much cheese that I had to use a knife to cut each chip away from the gooey center. The sliders were good but not remarkable, clearly downsized versions of a pretty average burger. Overall, I had a great experience at Archie Moore’s, and the wings are alone are worth the trip.<br /><br />What I would get if I returned:<br />A plate of wings and a Coke (I’d skip the sharing bit, though).</div><div></div><div> </div><div>Please Note: This review is in addition to Jordan's previous review of Archie Moore's on July 7th 2009.</div></div>Danielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00022883037701578692noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-14720613148953024302009-08-07T09:40:00.005-04:002009-08-07T10:19:49.301-04:00Osetra Oyster Bar and Fish House<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Snw3x271U-I/AAAAAAAAADs/YTZkHnHf1vo/s1600-h/rest-osetra.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 217px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Snw3x271U-I/AAAAAAAAADs/YTZkHnHf1vo/s400/rest-osetra.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367226185618379746" /></a><br />Osetra 203-354-4488<div>124 South Washington South Norwalk, CT 06854</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">While relatively new and unknown, I'd been really eager to go to Osetra after seeing several unique dishes on their online menu <a href="http://osetrasono.com/menu_dinner.html">here</a>. I headed over one weekday night with my dad. Osetra's got a small narrow dining room on the left and a bar on the right, and located right at the front window is their oyster shucking station for everyone to see them shuck fresh oysters. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Dad and I started with some of their raw oysters (seems to be their specialty). We tried ones from British Columbia, Massachusetts, and locals from right here in Norwalk. The menu spoke of "sugar-cane hints" and "peach finish". But I didn't taste any of those flavors nor did I taste a difference between any of the oysters. Their mignonette sauce was a bit too oily/peppery for my taste, too. Maybe I'm just an amateur at the whole oyster thing. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now onto appetizers. I had beef carpaccio with goat cheese. Beef had good flavor and I love goat cheese- but the cheese seemed to be too overpowering for me. Dad ordered cracked oat pancakes with bone marrow chantilly all topped with "caviar" made from currants. A really interesting dish- the pancake was outstanding and the sweetness of the currants was great.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I had yet to order a cooked thing yet. So I got the Osetra cioppino- clams, mussels, grilled salmon and grilled bass all in a spicy tomato broth. Everything in this dish was fantastic- the fish perfectly cooked and the broth seasoned just right. My dad got bbq striped bass with fried onions. Another well-cooked fish. And some of the best onion rings I've ever had. Of the sides we had (our three were saffron rice, summer succotash and asparagus), the grilled white asparagus with fried egg was definitely the best. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now for dessert. Homemade blueberry pie. And it was amazing! One of the best pies in recent memory. A great finish to a very good meal. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So as you can tell we ordered A LOT. I couldn't help myself. Everything just sounded so good on the menu. And for the most part it was (only a few misses). Go to Osetra for some of the best fish dishes I've had in Fairfield County. Our service was solid and the atmosphere was pleasantly casual. But what matters most is that they really know how to do fish. But beware if you don't like fish- they have limited options for non-fish people. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px; "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Snw36vdJ5wI/AAAAAAAAAD0/mV2obZJ3fwU/s1600-h/Osetra_plumfishLarge.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Snw36vdJ5wI/AAAAAAAAAD0/mV2obZJ3fwU/s400/Osetra_plumfishLarge.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367226338229479170" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 206px; " /></a></span></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-50790133252356893962009-08-05T15:54:00.005-04:002009-08-05T16:20:54.108-04:00The Amateur Gourmet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SnnnAyC8qVI/AAAAAAAAADk/eV84AXBHy2s/s1600-h/banner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 82px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SnnnAyC8qVI/AAAAAAAAADk/eV84AXBHy2s/s400/banner.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366574431608809810" /></a><br />The Amateur Gourmet is my new idol. Maybe it's because we're a lot alike (I like to think so). In his first review on eGullet, before he even started his site, he says, "My name is Adam and I am an aspiring gourmet, limited in my pursuit by factors that include: a. budget; b. food knowledge; and c. friends with limited pallettes." Hmm- seems enough like me. <div><br /></div><div>The Amateur Gourmet- aka Adam Roberts- was started in 2004 when Roberts was only 25, and he has since won several awards, written a book and is recognized throughout the culinary scene.</div><div><br /></div><div>He's got how-to's, recipes, and my favorite- his reviews of hundreds of gourmet (and casual) restaurants throughout the country (but mostly in New York). </div><div><br /></div><div>I love his blog because Adam is simply laugh-out-loud funny. He uses creative cartoons to portray his restaurant ventures and takes a picture of every plate he eats- a great addition. </div><div><br /></div><div>He discusses everything from why he chose to eat there, background, who he went with and even rates the bathrooms at restaurants. </div><div><br /></div><div>His reviews are really long- but I can never stop reading them. I'm gonna try my hardest not to copy everything he does and put it on FCfoodbytes. Anyways, bookmark it now!</div><div><br /></div><div>amateurgourmet.com- go to it!</div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-77873636912853809462009-08-04T15:58:00.008-04:002009-08-04T16:32:44.268-04:00Southport Brewing Company<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SniVrLZzZ_I/AAAAAAAAADc/fdqFNT79Ks4/s1600-h/poppreview.php"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SniVrLZzZ_I/AAAAAAAAADc/fdqFNT79Ks4/s320/poppreview.php" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366203525039876082" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SniUAhAM9SI/AAAAAAAAADU/mGI-5fu_iys/s1600-h/brew.gif"></a>Southport Brewing Company 203-256-BEER<div>2600 Post Rd Southport, CT 06490</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">With locations in Hamden, Milford, Stamford, Branford and Southport- SBC has become a popular Connecticut restaurant over the last 10 years- bringing in all different crowds. The Southport location, its original, is the only one I can really report on. It brings in families for dinner, couples, the sports-watching crowd and those who just enjoy tasting one of their 27 brews. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">SBC offers salads, bar food, burgers, sandwiches, and even entrees- steaks, pork and pasta dishes. I personally think their thin-crust pizzas are one of their better options. The last time I ate at SBC, I went with two friends, Eliza and Jordan for a quick dinner. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I ordered the pork and beans-a pork chop with orange marmalade and sauteed beans with spinach. The beans and spinach worked well with the sweetness of the orange sauce, and I thought the pork was overall pretty good. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Jordan ordered the pork special- his pork was overcooked/dry and the sauce was lacking in flavor. Eliza ordered the warm goat cheese salad which tasted pretty good- a simple salad but the goat cheese had a nice Focaccia crust that added texture. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For dessert we ordered key lime pie and the chocolate lava cake. Both desserts were decent- not the best of either that I've ever had but not memorable by any means.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Don't expect to get great food at SBC, but its a good place for a modest family dinner, and I recommend trying the pizza or to watch a sports game at their bar/booths. Note: I can't comment on their beers- only a few more years..</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-43754692465957876232009-08-04T14:46:00.007-04:002009-08-05T18:15:35.871-04:00Matteo's Ristorante<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-a6Le21mOZs04sAVnH22OBWUSB26M3BjxvU3DlrBFHePkEe41DE82kZcpm76UUkmHHmjqrnTEsA11pp06bpK7c6cEiWfgW4QzwvOo2fF2jK6lqk520VlOvdUQscL6MDvPmf3D1y3GhHfU/s1600-h/8944.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-a6Le21mOZs04sAVnH22OBWUSB26M3BjxvU3DlrBFHePkEe41DE82kZcpm76UUkmHHmjqrnTEsA11pp06bpK7c6cEiWfgW4QzwvOo2fF2jK6lqk520VlOvdUQscL6MDvPmf3D1y3GhHfU/s320/8944.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366181930578977458" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><div style="text-align: center; "><b>Matteo's Ristorante ~ 299 Long Ridge Road Stamford, CT 06902 ~ (203) 964-9802</b></div><div style="text-align: center; "><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left; ">Always having eaten at the restaurants in Florida or New York, I was happy to see that Matteo's branched out to Stamford because the food is great there. They serve hearty Italian meals family style, so each member of the family is bound to fill their stomachs to the brim.</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">My family started with the classic Matteo's Italian Chopped Salad, which comes with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, olives, onions, salami, and mozzarella cheese all finely chopped. I could eat this salad any time of the day. Next, we moved onto a full order of 12 baked clams. Though they were not as good as the ones in NY and FL, they were still tasty. In fact, the best part of this appetizer is dipping the warm bread in the clam sauce on the bottom of the plate. Following the clams, we were served our dinner. Keep in mind that all four of us are very big eaters... Our waiter came in shifts to serve us lobster ravioli, chicken francese, spaghetti bolognese, and a half order of burnt broccoli.</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">The ravioli was filled with cheese, lobster, and mushroom, and topped with heavy vodka sauce. It was good, but missing something. The chicken francese was also enjoyable, but not lemony enough. In addition, the spaghetti bolognese was missing the exploding flavor I expected, and no one came around offering grated parmesan cheese. Don't get me wrong - I enjoyed the meal, but I felt like the dishes lacked some flavor. It might be because I was tasting so many different dishes, or simply because the food was blander than normal - I'm not sure. However, the burnt broccoli was very good, but was $2.00 more than steamed broccoli.</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">Although the food wasn't as good as it normally is, the service was great. Our waiter made the salad in front of us and even served us from the family style plates. Also, he gave my dad a free beer after serving him a warm one first.</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">In the end, I'd say that Matteo's is just another family Italian restaurant - nothing so special to go out of your way for.</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; "><i>Overall: 3.3</i></div><div style="text-align: left; ">Taste: 3</div><div style="text-align: left; ">Atmosphere: 3 (crowded and noisy, but the building is nice and new)</div><div style="text-align: left; ">Experience: 3</div><div style="text-align: left; ">Menu: 3.5</div><div style="text-align: left; ">Service: 4</div><div style="text-align: left; ">Would I return? I wouldn't decline the offer to go back, but I wouldn't choose it</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; "><a href="http://www.matteosristorante.com/restaurant_stamford.htm">Click here to check out Matteo's website</a></div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">P.S. - I don't know why everything is underlined. Sorry if it's hard to read</div></span></span></span></b></div></span></span></span></div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00604613658766807168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-11336442448540427582009-08-04T14:14:00.006-04:002009-08-05T18:16:31.367-04:00Sakura - A Japanese Restaurant<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBwBprt8tq1gBTv4Kwp5K6WmIe3ve37f1SDHiqKDZ36R1_xUxDwngbfIlEQQWlIuiTvYpJ8qz51vGCGPf-gokCUYMRy66M4W7v-T0gdcn9mOdplS3g7h0NgXkZWlTZFhAMtNEeRRL_dDL/s1600-h/sakura.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 198px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBwBprt8tq1gBTv4Kwp5K6WmIe3ve37f1SDHiqKDZ36R1_xUxDwngbfIlEQQWlIuiTvYpJ8qz51vGCGPf-gokCUYMRy66M4W7v-T0gdcn9mOdplS3g7h0NgXkZWlTZFhAMtNEeRRL_dDL/s320/sakura.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366174586846840354" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sakura ~ 680 Post Road East Westport, CT 06880 ~ (203) 222-0802</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you live in Westport, you have definitely heard of Sakura and probably have been there at least once. It has become the classic "night before camp" and "last meal before college" restaurant, and is most popular for the amount of birthdays it hosts. As you can see in the picture, Sakura features several dining options. You can sit in a private tatami room (no shoes allowed), at the hibachi table where the skilled chefs cook before your eyes, at the sushi bar, at/near the bar, or simply at a traditional table in the back. Today, my friends and I had a hibachi lunch. There is a great hibachi lunch special - chicken, shrimp, or steak for $9.99 - but it does not come with the praised hibachi noodles. Also, the sushi lunch special consists of a filling portion of sushi for only $9.99 as well.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As for the meal, I was first served hibachi soup, which was very good and served as a good way to start the meal. I was then served fried rice in a bowl, which, as always, is excellent. Following the fried rice, the chef performed the classic "volcano" of flaming onions and continued his show as he grilled vegetables and noodles. The vegetables are fine, but the noodles are amazing. In fact, everything on the plate combined with the white mustard sauce makes the meal even better. Finally, a good 15-20 diced pieces of medium-cooked steak were tossed on my plate. The steak was juicy and tasted great. Around the table, Julie, Carly, Gabby, Sanders, and Hayley were seen feasting on their delicious meals as well - chicken, shrimp, sushi, and vegetarian dishes.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Including tip, my portion of the bill came out to be roughly $17, which is a pretty good price for the amount of food that I ate - I couldn't finish everything on the plate. So, if you want a fun place to go with your friends that serves great food, are having a birthday, leaving for camp tomorrow, or are simply hungry, make sure to stop by Sakura - especially because it is the only Japanese restaurant in Westport. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">TIP - For the best cooked meal, definitely eat at a hibachi table. It will probably require a reservation or a wait, but the food is better than what is served to customers at other tables most likely because it is cooked fresh in front of you. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Overall: 4.2</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Taste: 4</div><div style="text-align: left;">Atmosphere: 4</div><div style="text-align: left;">Experience: 4.5</div><div style="text-align: left;">Menu: 4</div><div style="text-align: left;">Service: 4.5</div><div style="text-align: left;">Would I return? Yes, probably for a birthday dinner</div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00604613658766807168noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-31093752352580475872009-08-03T18:30:00.003-04:002009-08-03T18:49:36.967-04:00The Next Food Network Star<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Ladies and gentlemen, I'm back from a week-long hiatus! And the blog will be better than ever...I hope?<div><br /></div><div>There's much to report on in my food world over the last week and I'll start it off with some recent TV news.</div><div><br /></div><div>Self-proclaimed underdog Melissa D'Arabian won "The Next Food Network Star" in the finale over Jeffrey Saad with her mini pilot "Kitchen Survival Guide". Melissa is a stay-at-home mom known for her money-saving and quick tips in the kitchen, and her new show "Ten Dollar Dinners" will premier on the Food Network this Sunday at 12:30pm. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now I was sad to see Melissa win. She had some good tips- fine. But she annoyed me so much with her way-too-perky expressions and her dishes seemed pretty boring to me. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was pulling for my boy Jeffrey, who did his mini-pilot entitled "The Ingredient Smuggler" where he used an interesting foreign ingredient (he used harissa- a north-African hot sauce) to create a delicious-looking steak sandwich. Every time Jeffrey was on, he made you hungry for whatever he was making and his dishes were creative and unique. </div><div><br /></div><div>Although it was a disappointing finale, I know Jeffrey will be successful on the Food Network even without the win last night. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SndpQFu0DDI/AAAAAAAAADM/ooM78EsEO7k/s1600-h/Jeffrey_Saad.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SndpQFu0DDI/AAAAAAAAADM/ooM78EsEO7k/s320/Jeffrey_Saad.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365873206172585010" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 238px; height: 320px; " /></a></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-63058475027983540612009-07-27T19:05:00.003-04:002009-07-28T00:31:21.764-04:00Christie's Country Store<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Christie's Country Store ~ 161 Cross Hwy Westport, CT 06880 ~ (203) 222-9999</span></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XhfUdRs5UutwDRv8WaQgkz51RG-xYUsYfwLNUEhI9MOzsPcATFG5OIESWarS3N0O-KsM266-j7kMwysuCL3wQf8UOPTuuhQl67Sc9DZ_-pxLP2Ny0trXTeN_ReCx_kyPciOjCX3zw5IC/s1600-h/c.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XhfUdRs5UutwDRv8WaQgkz51RG-xYUsYfwLNUEhI9MOzsPcATFG5OIESWarS3N0O-KsM266-j7kMwysuCL3wQf8UOPTuuhQl67Sc9DZ_-pxLP2Ny0trXTeN_ReCx_kyPciOjCX3zw5IC/s320/c.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363280721902237938" /></a>Unlike the Christie's that many teenagers are familiar with, the new and improved country store is clean, safe, delicious, mostly organic/natural, and offers many services. Christie's has it all - tons of beverages, hot dogs & hamburgers, pizza (yes, they deliver), deli sandwiches, salads, prepared foods, a Tex-Mex menu, breakfast foods, candy, snacks, and plenty more. In addition, there is a grocery section of the store with all-natural chips, salad dressings, cereals, etc.<div><br /></div><div>In the past, I have gotten appetizing pizza, breakfast burritos, deli sandwiches, and Burrito Extremes - a wrap loaded with chicken cutlet, lettuce, tomato, cheese, bacon, refried beans, sour cream, salsa, and probably some other ingredients. If you plan on going to the gym afterwards to burn off all the calories, this is a great filling meal. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, I was in a rush tonight so I grabbed a pre-made chicken cacciatore dish ($7.20). I had never tried Christie's pre-made meals before, but I could tell this was fresh because the plastic container was still warm despite being in a cooler. </div><div><br /></div><div>I heated up the chicken dish as soon as I got home. It consisted of roasted chicken with roasted sweet peppers and mushrooms in a hearty tomato sauce over perfectly cooked linguini. Honestly, it was very good, and I even consider it great for being pre-made. The portion was big enough that I had to leave some extra (and I can eat a lot), so it is well worth the $7.20. Next time I'm at Christie's, I will definitely grab a prepared meal because I know that they are fresh and tasty. In fact, there was a sausage and pepper dish in the cooler tonight that looked very good, so I already know tomorrow night's dinner!</div><div><br /></div><div>**I am not giving Christie's Country Store a numerical review because I ate the chicken cacciatore at home. However, it was very clean and the people are extremely nice there.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div></div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00604613658766807168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-82651292447653439562009-07-26T21:38:00.003-04:002009-07-26T22:06:52.444-04:00Super Duper Weenie<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sm0Lg8vh9eI/AAAAAAAAAC8/04tY0TbdYCE/s1600-h/img_0172.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sm0Lg8vh9eI/AAAAAAAAAC8/04tY0TbdYCE/s320/img_0172.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362955391957333474" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Super Duper Weenie 203-334-3647<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">306 Black Rock Tpke. Fairfield, CT 06825</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Super Duper Weenie has the best hot dogs in Fairfield County. Yes, I said it. Grilling is clearly the best way to cook a dog (sorry Rawley's). Their relish is unbeatable, and I'm not even sure what mustard they use- but it's amazing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I haven't had any thing but the dogs and the fries. It doesn't really matter though. The fries are crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. And they're always fresh and hot.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My favorite dog would have to be the New Yorker- tangy sauerkraut, onion sauce, mustard and an addicting spicy relish all on a crispy hot dog. Second place goes to the Georgia red hot- a spicy sausage with kraut, relish and mustard. I like spicy, but they've got plenty of other options.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">All their dogs are $3.50 and they're conveniently located off exit 24 from I-95. I hear their soups, chicken tenders and sandwiches are great (although I've yet to try them), but I can tell you if you're going out to get a hot dog, make sure its a Super Duper Weenie.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 27px; "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sm0Lk2YeB8I/AAAAAAAAADE/VZzUY_RNuvM/s1600-h/SuperDuperWeenie___v1_8_-_Version_2_(1).jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sm0Lk2YeB8I/AAAAAAAAADE/VZzUY_RNuvM/s320/SuperDuperWeenie___v1_8_-_Version_2_(1).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362955458969470914" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-54129465189631055652009-07-25T21:56:00.003-04:002009-07-25T22:01:12.972-04:00Vote for your favorite culinary cityJust a little poll to keep the blog interesting.<div>Comment and tell us the city that has the best food.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-59676626463972491632009-07-23T21:08:00.002-04:002009-07-23T21:21:57.740-04:00Border Grill<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Border Grill 203-254-8322</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">1550 Post Rd. E Westport, CT 06880</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Border Grill in Westport serves up very good Tex-Mex food in a small stand on the Post Road. They've got takeout and delivery, or you can sit on one of the grill-side stools and watch your food cooked to order on their grill. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">While Border Grill doesn't have any really creative dishes, they do a great job of making filling dishes at cheap prices (all items are under $9). The quesadillas are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, and their homemade hot salsa adds a great kick to any dish. My personal favorite though is the bean burrito (onions, peppers, beans, rice, cheese, guacamole). It's a tasty and filling vegetarian dish and the guacamole is very good.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Border Grill also serves up burgers, dogs, tacos, fajitas, enchiladas and some pretty good salads. I can always depend on the Border Grill for a quick, cheap Mexican lunch. With quick service and must-try burritos, Border Grill is definitely worth checking out. </div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-136665687076683382009-07-22T10:04:00.004-04:002009-07-22T10:18:35.698-04:00Vosges Chocolates<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SmcfsA-MRYI/AAAAAAAAAC0/exZE5d5Z9SY/s1600-h/baconbar1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 192px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SmcfsA-MRYI/AAAAAAAAAC0/exZE5d5Z9SY/s320/baconbar1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361288722443421058" /></a><div><br /></div>Vosges Chocolates are my new obsession. This company uses exotic ingredients and flavor combinations to make chocolates, ice cream and other snacks. <div><br /></div><div>I've only tried two of their products, but I'm already hooked. </div><div>One deep milk chocolate bar with Tibetan goji berries and Himalayan sea salt. </div><div>One dark chocolate ice cream with ancho and chipotle chillies and Ceylon cinnamon. </div><div><br /></div><div>I don't even like chocolate ice cream, but the one I tried has the perfect combination of sweet, salt and bitterness. First you get a slight cinnamon flavor with the chocolate and then there's a great kick at the end from the chillies.</div><div><br /></div><div>I can't wait to try the rest of their exotic chocolates- especially their bacon chocolate bar. </div><div>Although they're a little expensive ($7.50 per bar), it's definitely worth it for a chocolate treat. </div><div><br /></div><div>Check them out on vosgeschocolate.com or in Balducci's stores, and just give one of them a try. They have different chocolates combined with plums, wasabi, and even mushrooms.</div><div><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-91877911683268593372009-07-21T09:51:00.004-04:002009-07-21T10:11:40.332-04:00Roly Poly<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SmXJUejXhjI/AAAAAAAAACs/4Sft0kC20ak/s1600-h/Roly+Poly.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 258px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SmXJUejXhjI/AAAAAAAAACs/4Sft0kC20ak/s320/Roly+Poly.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360912285090416178" /></a><br />Roly Poly 203-226-9376<div>45 Saugatuck Ave. Westport, CT 06880</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Roly Poly is national chain with locations in several Fairfield County towns- Fairfield, Westport, Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Shelton and Monroe. And for a chain- I'd give its a food a pretty good grade. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I went just this past week and ordered a sandwich (really just a wrap) with steak, eggs and veggies. The steak and eggs had a very fake, overcooked taste, and overall, the wrap did not have much flavor except the salsa on the side. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And I have to complain quickly about how they don't close up their wraps. Whatever wrap you get, half the stuff falls out of the bottom when you're eating it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Although I didn't really like my wrap, I will say the ones with chicken are pretty tasty. Maybe not as hard to mess up chicken? Not sure, but I have to commend Roly Poly on their creative and varied menu that has soups, salads and sandwiches that include chicken, veggies, beef, pork and several different sauces. The only bad thing- the menu has too many options and too many words to read because they list out every ingredient in each wrap. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Overall, I'd order from Roly Poly again- you can even order online and pick it up. But stick with the chicken wraps. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-20278754819268252192009-07-21T09:08:00.004-04:002009-07-21T10:12:17.637-04:00Westport House of Pancakes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SmXDfJuZYlI/AAAAAAAAACk/hC-zGslDyQg/s1600-h/ihop.jpg"><br /></a>Westport House of Pancakes 203-454-9709<div>520 Post Rd. E Westport, CT 06880</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've been wanting to try WHOP for a while now, mostly because of the mystery behind it. Has anyone in Westport ever been here? Is it related to IHOP? (I found out it's not) How do you even pronounce their name?? "Weehop" seems reasonable to me. But anyways I went in one Sunday morning for a pre-golf breakfast with a few friends. We were seated in a booth by a friendly waiter and promptly served water. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Unbelievable as it may be, the water actually tasted bad. I'm not one to be picky about any food, but the water was luke warm and had a weird aftertaste. OK, so now on to the food. I ordered the breakfast sampler which let me try a little bit of the ham, sausage, bacon, eggs, hash browns, french toast and pancakes. The eggs were your average scrambled eggs- nothing special. The three meats and hash browns were clearly all packaged and warmed up. All tasted boring and sub-par. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The pancakes weren't bad actually. And the best part of the meal was the french toast. Thick bread, golden crisp outside and powdered sugar. I was pleasantly surprised with their french toast, and was actually wanting some more. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">WHOP serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and their extensive menu is a basically your normal diner fare. But after trying their breakfast- which seems to be their specialty- I would not go back to WHOP. Their prices are slightly cheaper than local diners, but I'd probably just rather head to Dunkin Donuts or McDonald's for even cheaper breakfast. </div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh, and I still think I'm one of the few Westporters to enter the WHOP. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SmXDfJuZYlI/AAAAAAAAACk/hC-zGslDyQg/s1600-h/ihop.jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SmXDfJuZYlI/AAAAAAAAACk/hC-zGslDyQg/s320/ihop.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360905871408325202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-10856168814596362772009-07-20T00:36:00.008-04:002009-07-23T00:37:12.260-04:00The Lime<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScAQelaiBL6ZYLUDKAuEgqcyyTd6iMMbEmXLIk6sad72k1wPdSzTkPqA9wRzF7iDcp_1hzgEnIz6lTZVsHtEWGUAkCzcNw_lR40GCTeceuC328Nb-qFcpUfmJ4LJgS8EBw1ZS7hnbUx6b/s1600-h/lime.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScAQelaiBL6ZYLUDKAuEgqcyyTd6iMMbEmXLIk6sad72k1wPdSzTkPqA9wRzF7iDcp_1hzgEnIz6lTZVsHtEWGUAkCzcNw_lR40GCTeceuC328Nb-qFcpUfmJ4LJgS8EBw1ZS7hnbUx6b/s320/lime.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360403541144292066" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Lime ~ 168 Main Ave. Norwalk, CT06851 ~ (203) 846-9240</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Lime may look like an average restaurant alongside others on Main Ave in Norwalk such as Taste of Brasil and Valencia, but the food distinguishes it from the rest. Their motto of "Naturally Delicious!" is spot on because every dish on the all-natural menu is spectacular. Voted Best Vegetarian Restaurant by Connecticut Magazine and Fairfield Weekly for the past 15 years, The Lime also pleases carnivores with the various meat dishes it offers. It has the typical meals such as steak, chicken, fish, and vegetables, but all these come with a twist. The Lime offers many unconventional dishes, so it may be tough to decide on one. For instance, the Barbecue Shrimp appetizer comes with grilled shrimp in a spicy Jicama sauce over grilled cheese toast, and is simply amazing. Also, several dishes are served with ginger wasabi sauce, mango chutney, or even honey mustard horse radish. In all honesty, there is not a weak dish on the menu, so no need to be picky.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">One unique aspect of the lime is that every entree is served with a salad, vegetables, wild brown rice, and delicious soy carrot bread. This is a lot of food for a reasonable price.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Tonight, I had the usual barbecue shrimp to start and once again loved it. For my main course, I chose the Mixed Grill Sweetfire (Chicken breast, shrimp, and hot andouille sausanfe, grilled with Cajun spices and served with a honey-salsa mustard - $18.95) while fellow diners Ben and Corey respectively ordered the Cajun Sweetfire Steak ($22.95) and a special chicken dish smothered in pineapple mango chutney ($??). By the end of our meal, we had a tough time leaving because we were too full to move.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Mixed Grill Sweetfire was excellent. Each component of the dish - chicken, shrimp, and sausage - was perfectly cooked and was full of flavor. The honey-salsa mustard added a simultaneous combination of sweetness and spiciness that was interesting yet extremely appetizing. Although I was stuffed after only eating half the plate, I had no choice but to keep on eating. Go big or go home, right? The food was truthfully too good to leave any on the plate. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Ben's said the steak was great too, and Corey could not stop raving about the chicken. He let me try some of the chutney after he ate all the chicken, and that too was top-notch.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Finally, we got a round of desserts - Mississipi Mud Pien (best of the three), some rich chocolate cake, and a dessert filled with apples, cinnamon, caramel, and graham cracker crust (all desserts are $3.95). Sweet. Filling. Rich. Amazing.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I'd have to say that The Lime is definitely the best restaurant I have reviewed thus far. The food is unbeatable, and so is its unmatched service. The Lime is full of nice friendly people, so I know every trip there will be an enjoyable experience.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">**TIP: I have been to The Lime a few times and highly recommend the swordfish dishes, sea scallops, and honey maple glazed salmon as well as the Mixed Grill Sweetfire.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Overall: 5</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Taste: 5</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Atmosphere: 5</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Experience: 5</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Menu: 5 </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Service: 5</span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Would I return? I can't wait to</div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00604613658766807168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-77442004268713961362009-07-17T20:53:00.004-04:002009-07-21T10:12:45.935-04:00Westfair Pizza and Pasta<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_r2M5FJaN9kBOSM1srGiIXia1jL35IJIHMr3y6MO0Xx216NHQML2EcpADOSUY788tZ_xYJUNsLajfzDW3XbVTYFLAMbZdDJVbQK_jnLfOIFr4UT4X2MGQa4ddrSJe6iH0XuwZ61up6pba/s1600-h/pizza.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 65px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_r2M5FJaN9kBOSM1srGiIXia1jL35IJIHMr3y6MO0Xx216NHQML2EcpADOSUY788tZ_xYJUNsLajfzDW3XbVTYFLAMbZdDJVbQK_jnLfOIFr4UT4X2MGQa4ddrSJe6iH0XuwZ61up6pba/s320/pizza.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359597057632551650" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Westfair Pizza and Pasta ~ 1759 Post Road East Westport, CT ~ (203) 259-2299</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">A hidden secret about Westfair Pizza & Pasta (formally known as "Slice"), is their paninis. One would not think to order one from here because the name of the restaurant is not Westfair Pizza, Pasta, and Paninis, but the grilled sandwiches are in fact very appetizing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Tonight I had the hot "Cha-Cha" panini (all are $7.25), which consists of grilled chicken on a grilled roll with cheddar, avocado, bacon, sundried tomatoes, and pesto mayo - an original combo I had never seen before. I brought it home, and upon opening the styrofoam box I literally said out loud "Whoa." The variety of colors - green from avocado, yellow/orange from chedder, red from tomatoes....) this panini had made it look incredible, and almost like a painter's pallet. Anyway, the sandwich was very good. Each component was tasty except for the pesto mayo. There was not enough of it, and it was quite bland. To compensate for it, I put Annie's Goddess dressing on the side to dip the panini into; this was a great call.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In the end, I very much enjoyed my panini and the "small" (it was actually very big) garden salad I got on the side. Next time any of you go to Westfair, make sure you try a panini. However, if you're in the mood for pizza, get the salad pizza. It's delicious.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">**I'm not giving Westfair Pizza & Pasta a numerical review because I did not eat at the restaurant</div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00604613658766807168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-14487150277489758332009-07-16T22:27:00.003-04:002009-07-16T23:03:21.123-04:00Westport Farmer's Market<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sl_p74I-mpI/AAAAAAAAACc/7YH8KlmGhBU/s1600-h/070507_farmersmarket_thumb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sl_p74I-mpI/AAAAAAAAACc/7YH8KlmGhBU/s320/070507_farmersmarket_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359259296485776018" /></a><br />Located in the Imperial Ave. parking lot in Westport, CT sits my newfound favorite place in my hometown. It's the Westport Farmer's Market- open every Thursday 10am-2pm and Sunday 11:30am-2:30pm from May until mid-November. (Sundays are behind the Saugatuck Congregational Church on 245 Post Rd. E)<div><br /></div><div>Here in this ordinary parking lot is not only the best place to buy fresh vegetables, but also the best place to fill yourself up on a meal of food samples (sorry Stew Leonard's). </div><div><br /></div><div>They've got the best fruit pies from various bakeries including Michelle's and SoNo Bakery. There's fresh clams, oysters, and lobsters from Capt. Jeff Northrop. Then there's organic tomales from Boxcar Cantina in Greenwich, Wave Hill bread, and fresh fruit + vegetable smoothies. Add in Andrew's honey, fresh vegetables from several local farms and Arogyo tea. And lastly-one of my favorites- 6 different kinds of fresh goat's milk cheese. </div><div><br /></div><div>All of the food is organic, freshly made, and best of all- there's free samples galore. I make sure I hit every stand before I leave. And then eventually I'll buy something to take home. If you haven't yet, you MUST check out the Westport Farmer's Market. And there's several others in Fairfield County so be sure to look online for them all. </div><div><div><div><br /></div></div></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-2687706865880248802009-07-15T18:07:00.003-04:002009-07-15T18:36:28.864-04:00Jeff's Cuisine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sl5Z0JJiSJI/AAAAAAAAACU/N9NYYVmEPhc/s1600-h/Pics_Jeff_Ribs_02.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 286px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sl5Z0JJiSJI/AAAAAAAAACU/N9NYYVmEPhc/s320/Pics_Jeff_Ribs_02.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358819358961453202" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Jeff's Cuisine 203-852-0041</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">54 N. Main St. South Norwalk, CT 06854</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">After hearing several rave reviews, I headed over to Jeff's in South Norwalk with high expectations. Chef Jeff friendly greeted Kenta, Jordan and I with big fist pounds (think Shaq meets Howie Mandel), and he did so with the rest of his customers. But now to the food.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was a hit and miss kinda thing for me. First, most of the food is sitting out in dishes in front of the customers, which was somewhat unappetizing (like an ice cream shop). I ended up tasting several of the items on the menu.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My hits: the pulled pork- tender meat, great flavor, enough spice</div><div style="text-align: left;">corn bread- served with every dish- a nice sweetness</div><div style="text-align: left;">fried chicken- my favorite item- perfectly cooked with a good crunch on the outside</div><div style="text-align: left;">mac + cheese- baked the way I like it with a lot of crisp parts and good cheddar flavor</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now the misses:</div><div style="text-align: left;">the ribs- not bad by any means, but had too much sauce for my taste</div><div style="text-align: left;">jerk chicken- a good amount of spice but no distinct flavor-simply burned my tongue</div><div style="text-align: left;">cajun fries- tasted out of the bag and no cajun spice</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The prices were good (about $10-11 for an entree w/ side + cornbread), the service by other employees wasn't great, and the decor was minimal (but honestly who cares at a bbq joint).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">You can tell Jeff puts his heart and soul into his food, and although I thought he missed on a few dishes, I'd definitely come back for the hits (which were very good), so hit up Jeff's for some great southern food!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-45302626336923634532009-07-15T10:21:00.003-04:002009-07-15T10:29:35.960-04:00How to Cook Everything<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>If there's one cookbook you should buy it's "How to Cook Everything" by Mark Bittman. Or maybe two books- "How to Cook Everything Vegetarian", also by Mark Bittman. <div><br /></div><div>These two books have over 4,000 total recipes, hundreds of illustrations, demos, and techniques. And there's literally a recipe for every imaginable culinary category out there. If you're not much of a cook- all you need to do is get these 2 books and you're all set.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're an experienced cook, you basically need to get these 2 books and you're pretty much all set. I know people who have 50 cookbooks for recipes from each state. No need. Mark Bittman's recently updated books have everything you need.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sl3nsYmeJgI/AAAAAAAAACM/loFH7e5-3qU/s1600-h/6a00cdf39e4fe5cb8f010980beab53000b-500pi.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sl3nsYmeJgI/AAAAAAAAACM/loFH7e5-3qU/s320/6a00cdf39e4fe5cb8f010980beab53000b-500pi.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358693881344828930" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 280px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-77718532498354483132009-07-13T23:51:00.005-04:002009-07-14T00:14:54.385-04:00Ash Creek Saloon<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-zWXjPeZiEygybqXuB7-TWH7-TfyMkDfrSkkqh_E4JgaNd2aa5Fmk8Ah_QyWVmY0GekvgC9PNsJTKu277lHg8AoCwbIdK3oQoJRnBqvzjlUf_iXvF5tRUSjVdMEaZAw85y8I8Jt5peUS/s1600-h/creek.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-zWXjPeZiEygybqXuB7-TWH7-TfyMkDfrSkkqh_E4JgaNd2aa5Fmk8Ah_QyWVmY0GekvgC9PNsJTKu277lHg8AoCwbIdK3oQoJRnBqvzjlUf_iXvF5tRUSjVdMEaZAw85y8I8Jt5peUS/s320/creek.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358158649958228002" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ash Creek Saloon ~ 2 Wilton Ave. Norwalk, CT 06581 ~ (203) 847-7500</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've been having quite a bit of BBQ food lately including an excellent Carolina Pulled Pork sandwich from Westport's own Bobby Q's, which is hard to beat. However, Ash Creek puts up a fight. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This was my first time eating at the Norwalk restaurant because I usually go to the one in Fairfield. Also, I ventured away from my usual self and tried the BBQ Brisket Sandwich ($8.99) instead of the ribs (voted best in Connecticut 2005 and 2008). However, to no surprise, the sandwich was delicious. Rich in tasty vinegar-based BBQ sauce, the brisket was of perfect consistency and there was plenty of it. Enough meat filled the roll that I didn't even bother finishing it or the sweet potato fries on the side. Side note: I did notice that the brisket somewhat resembled the pulled pork because it wasn't as chunky as the brisket I'm used to, but this had no effect on my review.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I must not forget to mention the appetizer. Though simple, the small gorgonzola salad ($6.99) was very good. Filled with mixed greens, fresh gorgonzola, red onions, dried cranberries, walnuts, and a nice balsamic vinaigrette, this salad vanished in a matter of minutes. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">TIP: If you aren't too hungry but are in the mood for great BBQ, get one of the sandwiches. There is enough meat in these sandwiches - pulled pork, chicken, brisket, etc. - to fill your stomach, and they are far less expensive than the full BBQ dinner plates. These platters can range up to the mid-$20s while no sandwich tops $10.99.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Overall: 4.2</span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Taste: 4</div><div style="text-align: left;">Atmosphere: 4 (cool bar scene with big TVs)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Experience: 4.5</div><div style="text-align: left;">Menu: 4 (standard BBQ + original sandwiches)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Service: 4.5 (waiter was extremely prompt and nice)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Would I return? Yes</div>Jordanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00604613658766807168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-17796573642162114482009-07-13T22:13:00.004-04:002009-07-16T14:30:47.052-04:00Community Supported Agriculture<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a nation-wide program that supports small local farms, and there's a program right here in my hometown of Westport, CT. Every week my family gets a basket of the fresh produce of the week from Stone Gardens Farm in Shelton, CT. <div><br /></div><div>Every week the products change. And you know it's fresh because it still has the dirt on it. </div><div><br /></div><div>One recent basket included peas, cauliflower, strawberries, collards, beets, escarole, garlic scapes, turnips, radishes, a loaf of fresh bread, and fresh herbs like thyme, parsley and oregano. And you can even buy chickens from the farm.</div><div><br /></div><div>Next year (the program runs from June-October), please sign up for this great program. You get all the great produce you need, while supporting a local farm. It's healthy, fresh and delicious. What more could you ask for...and they even give you recipes to use your produce in.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SlvxWnCJdvI/AAAAAAAAACE/D20rCW4gPmA/s1600-h/DSC00757.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/SlvxWnCJdvI/AAAAAAAAACE/D20rCW4gPmA/s320/DSC00757.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358141552424744690" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Stone Gardens Farm</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-74947815123909984592009-07-13T16:55:00.005-04:002009-07-14T00:13:29.895-04:00Swanky Frank's<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Slui_9t5lII/AAAAAAAAAB8/8Yuz1qFDeCs/s1600-h/293025084_0e3b764402.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Slui_9t5lII/AAAAAAAAAB8/8Yuz1qFDeCs/s320/293025084_0e3b764402.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358055401469875330" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Swanky Frank's 226-5355</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">1050 Post Road E. Westport, CT 06880 </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's my third hot dog place, and in my opinion, Swanky's takes last place for food. The original Swanky Frank's is on 182 Connecticut Ave. in Norwalk, but I'm gonna write about Westport's because I've been there many more times. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Swanky's does a deep-fried hot dog like Rawley's, but the dog and its toppings just come up short compared to Rawley's. Their hot dog just has an odd texture, their coleslaw is too watery and their chile lacks any spice or flavor. As they're known for their dogs, I just wished they had a more distinct flavor. Plus the dogs always look really shriveled up.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Swanky's french fries are overall pretty good- crispy with the skins left on. The onion rings, though, have too much batter on them and not enough onion, and they always come out way too greasy. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">While Swanky's serves up burgers, chicken fingers, grilled cheese and seafood, all their items are just average.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But overall, Swanky's is a cheap place to stop for a quick lunch, and the service is friendly and helpful. Just don't come expecting much more than average dogs/burgers and a load of other greasy items. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5630383706990356761.post-32797005907468219312009-07-10T13:33:00.004-04:002009-07-10T13:45:12.103-04:00Italian Festival of Westport<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sld-HeoC-OI/AAAAAAAAAB0/E1dcdTx6_ig/s1600-h/italianfestivalferriswheel07060701pop_thumb.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ig8tjsCuxjQ/Sld-HeoC-OI/AAAAAAAAAB0/E1dcdTx6_ig/s320/italianfestivalferriswheel07060701pop_thumb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356888948725709026" /></a><br />Stop by the Italian Festival in Westport at Luciano Park (by the train station) today (6-11pm), saturday (12-11pm) and sunday (12-10pm) for all kinds of different food.<div><br /></div><div>They've got ribs and pulled pork from Bobby Q's and pasta from Calises. Then there's dogs, burgers, pizza, calamari from Italia Restaurant, fresh clams and lobster rolls from Szabo's, pizza fritta from St. Ann's volunteers. There's also Carvel ice cream, gyros from 4 Brothers, chinese food from Jasmine's, and sausage/pepper from some place in Norwalk.</div><div><br /></div><div>And lastly, my favorite, deep fried candy/dough. You can get oreos, three musketeers, snickers, reeses and twinkies. It's all healthy and delicious so check it out. </div><div><br /></div>Sandershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08274155373373514200noreply@blogger.com1