As you may have heard, 2010 involved two resolutions: to take on more of the restaurants that NYC has to offer and to start actually making more recipes that I find. I have made a schedule of events, 1 new restaurant and 1 new dinner party per month, for the year.
Tentatively, the schedule looks as such (but are subject to change):
Restaurants
Ramen Shops (East Village) JAN 23
Seafood or Steakhouse FEB 20
Dumpling Houses (Chinatown) MAR 6
Greek (Astoria) APR 10
Sushi Ya (Chelsea) MAY 29
Pizza (maybe Sri Lankan) (Staten Island) JUN 12
Russian (maybe pizza) (Brighton Beach) JUL 10
Mexican/Latin (Bushwick) AUG 28
Soul Food (Harlem) SEP 4
BBQ (Dinosaur BBQ/Fette Sau) OCT 16
Korean BBQ/Hot Pot (K-Town) NOV 13
American Nouveau (Theater Dist) DEC 18
Dinner Parties
Brunch JAN 16
A relaxed affair with baked egg cups, monkey bread, and hash browns.
Craft Beer Night FEB 12
A party to celebrate the great American brewer. Guests are asked to bring a craft beer of their choice to share. Tapas to be determined.
Cook-Off MAR 20
Two chefs and two assistants prepare two different meals based on one theme ingredient -- to be determined -- which is revealed one week prior. I am hoping both Darrell and Josh participate in this event.
Around the world potluck APR 24
Food and drinks from around the world! Sign up for a country, bonus points if you come in costume!
'Mexi-Night' MAY 8
Officially planned as the third annual Cinco de Mayo inspired party -- count on everything from margaritas to s'macos. BYOS -- bring your own sombrero
Summertime BBQ picnic JUN 26
I believe East River park has picnic areas with grills available to the public. So come eat burgers and dogs, bring your bat and mitt and we'll play some home run derby.
Dessert Night JUL 24
"Life's too short, eat dessert first" dessert night will feature a full panel of sweets and quite possibly an attempt at recreating the childhood magic of the choco-taco.
Comfort Food AUG 14
Mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, biscuits and gravy; whatever you crave when all you want is a little security and nostalgia come share your memories and appetite.
Oriental Express SEP 18
Food the likes even Marco Polo never saw, the exotic cuisine of the far East.
Bad Pizza/Bad Movie Night OCT 2
A staple of high school weekends -- we'll all pile onto the couch and watch some bad movies with some bad pizza (and maybe awkwardly try and get to second base).
Seafood Night NOV 6
I don't have much to say except I've seen a few seafood recipes that I never bother to try.
Gingerbread house secret santa! DEC 11
My favorite event of the year just got a little better when I thought I would try and add gingerbread house building to the already amazing fun we have. I'm already excited guys, is it December yet?
Feedback and ideas are always welcome and I'll try and accommodate as best I can. Again, most parties I'd like to hold to 6 so RSVP sooner rather than later I suppose (I was surprised at the response for our upcoming first event).
Read More......
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
I have two questions for you:
1. What is your favorite place in the city to eat?
2. What is your favorite meal to order there? Read More......
1. What is your favorite place in the city to eat?
2. What is your favorite meal to order there? Read More......
Monday, November 23, 2009
Not that it really matters (I guess this is more motivation for myself than notification for the two readers I have now) but I refuse to write about the food I eat until I buy a camera. And use it. I cannot blog about food adequately without it. I dunno why I pretended I could.
Until then, I don't know if this blog will be updated (oh no, how will you fill that 3 minutes every month without my one new post?) at all. I've become a fan of the convenience of twitter, linking to things without having to be wordy.
Maybe things will get more serious if I get into graduate school. And, at this point, that is a big if.
But the good thing about food is that there is always something about it everyday. It's not just part of our lives, for some us, it is who we are. Read More......
Until then, I don't know if this blog will be updated (oh no, how will you fill that 3 minutes every month without my one new post?) at all. I've become a fan of the convenience of twitter, linking to things without having to be wordy.
Maybe things will get more serious if I get into graduate school. And, at this point, that is a big if.
But the good thing about food is that there is always something about it everyday. It's not just part of our lives, for some us, it is who we are. Read More......
Monday, November 2, 2009
Thursday, October 15, 2009
In Defense of Dining Alone
For some reason, I am in the minority when it comes to solo dining. Most find it awkward and avoid it like the plague, walking blocks in adverse weather carrying take out or eating spoonfuls of peanut butter instead of sitting alone in a restaurant.
And while I do believe many a meal, even the worst, can come out smelling like roses with the right company, sometimes I find that company to be only an empty chair. And since I've started working the regular 9-5 and the last person I really related to on a social level left, I've taken the occasional lunch out even more frequently. Because there's only so many work lunches I can take (Though I am definitely not one of those 'just learn how to cook' zealots, who has that kind of time?).
Granted, I should put this up front before I start getting into the zen of eating. I am not, nor have I ever really been, a very socially outgoing person. I am a common mix of being an introvert and shy. I can get lost in my thoughts. I was one of those people who sat by the windows between classes, pretending to study but just watched the people go by. It's actually one of my favorite hobbies (voyeuristic stereotypes be damned). I'm also closely guarded about certain things. And, in all honesty, I'm kind of an asshole. Which helps keep people a certain distance. It's also why I'm kind of a 'shitty friend,' at least to those who 'know' me.
So all that being said, I still think everyone should, at least occasionally, eat out by themselves. It's a specific experience that you cannot otherwise get. For one, while no one ever really calls me on it, I hate the fact that I am a slow eater. One of the slowest, if not the, in my group friends. So I awkwardly sometimes concentrate on chewing and swallowing, just so everyone else isn't just sitting there staring at my half eaten burger while they're flagging for the check. And the converse is true too, I've heard fast eaters feel quite self-conscious about it, when eating speeds are just completely out of sync. So there's a point for dining alone.
Related, I think it's easier to enjoy or explore the food without either the aforementioned worry of social conventions in eating rate, but also just sometimes savoring flavors. It's sometimes seen as awkward for groups of people to eat in silence. It's seen as perfectly normal for one guy to eat in silence (in fact, if he were talking, that'd probably be the most awkward situation, at least for the waitstaff).
But there is a certain tranquility in being able to enjoy a meal completely in your control and power. And that can be calming in an otherwise hectic and entropic life.
I usually also get to indulge in my people watching, and if not, I usually get a few good chapters read in my latest book.
Although it never really affects me, some people change their orders from what they truly want when in the company of others.
You may absolutely hate it, some say they just feel self-conscious. But if you can get through that, it may just bring a peace of mind.
Read More......
And while I do believe many a meal, even the worst, can come out smelling like roses with the right company, sometimes I find that company to be only an empty chair. And since I've started working the regular 9-5 and the last person I really related to on a social level left, I've taken the occasional lunch out even more frequently. Because there's only so many work lunches I can take (Though I am definitely not one of those 'just learn how to cook' zealots, who has that kind of time?).
Granted, I should put this up front before I start getting into the zen of eating. I am not, nor have I ever really been, a very socially outgoing person. I am a common mix of being an introvert and shy. I can get lost in my thoughts. I was one of those people who sat by the windows between classes, pretending to study but just watched the people go by. It's actually one of my favorite hobbies (voyeuristic stereotypes be damned). I'm also closely guarded about certain things. And, in all honesty, I'm kind of an asshole. Which helps keep people a certain distance. It's also why I'm kind of a 'shitty friend,' at least to those who 'know' me.
So all that being said, I still think everyone should, at least occasionally, eat out by themselves. It's a specific experience that you cannot otherwise get. For one, while no one ever really calls me on it, I hate the fact that I am a slow eater. One of the slowest, if not the, in my group friends. So I awkwardly sometimes concentrate on chewing and swallowing, just so everyone else isn't just sitting there staring at my half eaten burger while they're flagging for the check. And the converse is true too, I've heard fast eaters feel quite self-conscious about it, when eating speeds are just completely out of sync. So there's a point for dining alone.
Related, I think it's easier to enjoy or explore the food without either the aforementioned worry of social conventions in eating rate, but also just sometimes savoring flavors. It's sometimes seen as awkward for groups of people to eat in silence. It's seen as perfectly normal for one guy to eat in silence (in fact, if he were talking, that'd probably be the most awkward situation, at least for the waitstaff).
But there is a certain tranquility in being able to enjoy a meal completely in your control and power. And that can be calming in an otherwise hectic and entropic life.
I usually also get to indulge in my people watching, and if not, I usually get a few good chapters read in my latest book.
Although it never really affects me, some people change their orders from what they truly want when in the company of others.
You may absolutely hate it, some say they just feel self-conscious. But if you can get through that, it may just bring a peace of mind.
Read More......
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
I've got my eye on you
I've always been a fan of off menu ordering; it makes you feel...special, like you're part of a secret society that only those in the know get to enjoy. And this website is sharing with its audience the chance to join those ranks. While meager offerings now, I hope it grows with time. And that cap'n crunch frappachino sounds kinda awesome.
Read More......
I love the internet
I used to complain that I wish more food came in edible containers.
My wishes have come true: http://www.crispycones.com/index.htm (warning super annoying music ahead).
It's like making a disgusting hot pocket with whatever crap you wanna throw in it! Read More......
My wishes have come true: http://www.crispycones.com/index.htm (warning super annoying music ahead).
It's like making a disgusting hot pocket with whatever crap you wanna throw in it! Read More......
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Just What are We Buying Into?
I am not nutritionist. This is not a blog about health, dieting, or nutrition. I often eat like I am still in college. Or may never see food again. Yes, sometimes I just get hungry looking at This is Why You're Fat.
But this article has sparked numerous responses from the world at large.
And then I found this.
So after fads of monitoring fats, meats, carbs, anything in our diet, are just being cognizant of calories helping? I'll throw my hat in the ring and say that yes, we are moving toward a more responsible dietary standard.
I don't know this from personal experience, because in my youthful hedonism I completely ignore those listings.
Let me rephrase. That's not, technically, true. Since even before they were printed right on that fast food menu staring you down, there were stacks of cards, usually by the bathroom or some out of the way place and I would scan them. I once tried, in junior high, to construct the most unhealthy possible single meal at a Carl's Junior.
But times have changed. We are entering an age of ever increasing understanding of how food affects us, and especially an age of information, traveling faster and further than ever before. And the ever present reminder of the obesity epidemic.
The combination of these things will, naturally result in a cultural shift in eating habits. Of this I am sure. How it will play out, I am not.
Read More......
But this article has sparked numerous responses from the world at large.
And then I found this.
So after fads of monitoring fats, meats, carbs, anything in our diet, are just being cognizant of calories helping? I'll throw my hat in the ring and say that yes, we are moving toward a more responsible dietary standard.
I don't know this from personal experience, because in my youthful hedonism I completely ignore those listings.
Let me rephrase. That's not, technically, true. Since even before they were printed right on that fast food menu staring you down, there were stacks of cards, usually by the bathroom or some out of the way place and I would scan them. I once tried, in junior high, to construct the most unhealthy possible single meal at a Carl's Junior.
But times have changed. We are entering an age of ever increasing understanding of how food affects us, and especially an age of information, traveling faster and further than ever before. And the ever present reminder of the obesity epidemic.
The combination of these things will, naturally result in a cultural shift in eating habits. Of this I am sure. How it will play out, I am not.
Read More......
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
And speak of the devil...
this may put some of you off of burgers for a while.
I told you it can be hard to go on after constantly reading about our flawed foodways.
Read More......
this may put some of you off of burgers for a while.
I told you it can be hard to go on after constantly reading about our flawed foodways.
Read More......
Saturday, October 3, 2009
In Defense of Food?
Let's be honest, I am a bad foodie. As I mentioned before, I am an indiscriminate eater. I like food. Good food, bad food, whatever. And in this day and age of Michael Pollan and Mark Bittman, it's hard to make the right decisions.
I was never one of those vegans who felt the need to fight for the plight of the abused animal, but it is really getting harder and harder to eat the foods that I loved with a clean conscious. The reporting about the conditions of cattle and feed lots should be challenging the status quo more than Upton Sinclair's The Jungle. The argument to move from seed to leaf eating is convincing. And the industrialization of food should be cause for alarm to anyone with a sense of taste.
But civilization arose, developed, and modernized, through specialization. We no longer spend all of our resources simply trying to survive. And one of the prices we pay is to let others specialize in a food supply.
I don't smoke, I drink in moderation (well, I suppose that's debatable), I exercise, I take leisure time. But I don't eat well. Food will be the death of me. Yes, I'll have the bacon cheeseburger and fries. Yes I'll follow that with a red velvet cupcake. And what the hell, you convinced me to buy three donuts for a dollar (though I really don't need it).
Except what did I eat? Corn. It's cheap, it's everywhere, and it's rotting us inside and out. And yet I stand idly by as it continues to dominate my entire life. Because...damn if corn dogs aren't delicious, from the golden crispy corn bread coating to the corn fed meat dog on the stick (though, thinking of that visual, i'll admit, is a little offputting).
It's hard to be into food. The more I read and learn about any aspect of it, the less I should, on a conscious level, want to eat. What is a foodie supposed to do?
"We are living in a world today where lemonade is made from artificial flavors and furniture polish is made from real lemons"
Read More......
I was never one of those vegans who felt the need to fight for the plight of the abused animal, but it is really getting harder and harder to eat the foods that I loved with a clean conscious. The reporting about the conditions of cattle and feed lots should be challenging the status quo more than Upton Sinclair's The Jungle. The argument to move from seed to leaf eating is convincing. And the industrialization of food should be cause for alarm to anyone with a sense of taste.
But civilization arose, developed, and modernized, through specialization. We no longer spend all of our resources simply trying to survive. And one of the prices we pay is to let others specialize in a food supply.
I don't smoke, I drink in moderation (well, I suppose that's debatable), I exercise, I take leisure time. But I don't eat well. Food will be the death of me. Yes, I'll have the bacon cheeseburger and fries. Yes I'll follow that with a red velvet cupcake. And what the hell, you convinced me to buy three donuts for a dollar (though I really don't need it).
Except what did I eat? Corn. It's cheap, it's everywhere, and it's rotting us inside and out. And yet I stand idly by as it continues to dominate my entire life. Because...damn if corn dogs aren't delicious, from the golden crispy corn bread coating to the corn fed meat dog on the stick (though, thinking of that visual, i'll admit, is a little offputting).
It's hard to be into food. The more I read and learn about any aspect of it, the less I should, on a conscious level, want to eat. What is a foodie supposed to do?
"We are living in a world today where lemonade is made from artificial flavors and furniture polish is made from real lemons"
Read More......
Monday, September 7, 2009
Hodge Podge Mis Match
Looking back on the blog, I feel bad that I have neglected a lot of food in my life.
The Smoke Joint - Ft. Greene's very own BBQ joint. Self-proclaimed as authentic NYC style, it doesn't pretend to be anything it's not.
The pulled pork was good but unremarkable. Tender but lacked any real bite. The corn on the cob was great, smothered in a great aioli and seasoned with 'jointrub'. And the cornbread was a generous hunk of crumbly goodness. I also thought the bourbon bar it is attached to is a nice little place with some amazing cocktails. All in all, though, it's not the greatest place in new york, but a handy point for those that don't want to go into Manhattan. Unremarkable but not disappointing.
Tiffin Wallah - Curry Hill Indian lunch buffet. My coworker swears it is the best joint in the area and I am inclined to agree with him. Oresti and I first tried it two years prior when it first opened and was featured in NY Mag's best of list that summer. When he suggested it for a summer intern good bye party, I whole heartedly agreed (granted, a free company lunch anywhere gets my vote).
It's entirely vegetarian and entirely buffet. I couldn't tell you, exactly, what I ate because I couldn't really recognize everything. But it doesn't matter because it's all good and it's all you could eat. It's vegetarian, it's kosher, it's delicious. 3 plates and 2 beers later and I was a happy, stuffed camper.
Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery - Read on Chowhound, I spent weeks considered the trek to the LES from my Kips Bay job and finally made the trek. And boy am I glad I did. My first delivery was a house warming gift to good friends Madelyn and Jill. The next day, I went back (since they were sold out of the Summer strawberry cupcake the day before) and had a sampling of my own. Let me tell you, get the strawberry cupcake before they stop selling them. They are amazing! They are falling apart with strawberry goodness permeating throughout the cake and a frosting that is amazing.
The pumpkin spice comes in a close second with a hearty, tasty cake that is complimented perfectly by the cream cheese frosting. It's like the pumpkin bread that I remember from my childhood. God I love autumn flavors.
The Sassy red velvet had a rich dense cocoa crumb, moreso than I am used to in a red velvet. And the buttercream frosting is satin smooth. It's a real winner.
The black and White (buttercream with a cocoa cake) was a little dry which was a minor stumble for them but when you put out specialty cakes like these, who can be disappointed?
Maybe I just fell in love with the backstory of Sugar Sweet Sunshine, but it's a favorite in my book.
I recently upgraded my Mac to Snow Leopard (all my PCs still run XP professional) and at our pseudo upgrade party, we tried to get food. We wanted to return to Tavern on Nostrand, right near where we lived. But they were shuttered. On a saturday evening. Way to suck guys.
So we headed into the city (ended up seeing Extract with them as well) for a bite to eat with Kyle and Satoko. I invited my childhood friend Josh, who recently graduated from UC Berkeley to attend NYU Law; someone I've known since I was 5. We went to El Cantinero, a classic hang out for a casual meal with friends as I grew up at NYU. Do you like cheesy tex-mex food with Sombreros for the birthday boy? So do I, that's why I eat here. This really epitomizes the joke that all Mexican food tastes the same, because everything here is basically just meat, beans, rice, and cheese in a tortilla. But the pitchers of margaritas are fun!
Finally Labor Day weekend involved a brunch meeting of epic proportions. Bottomless brunch at Bondi Road resulted in the lot of us, all 12, with endless mimosas, a few shots of tequila-passion fruit-strawberry concoctions on the house, and a hangar steak, topped with bacon, poached eggs, and hollandaise. The food was unremarkable but the early afternoon drunch with the gang made up for it with flying colors. If you want to have a fun, relaxed, booze fueled meal with friends, it no reason Bondi Road (and Sunburnt Cow) are staples of the LES. It's times like these that I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes:
We should look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink.
And while I am sorry for not updating, I promise to keep eating. See you later.
-Ryan Read More......
The Smoke Joint - Ft. Greene's very own BBQ joint. Self-proclaimed as authentic NYC style, it doesn't pretend to be anything it's not.
The pulled pork was good but unremarkable. Tender but lacked any real bite. The corn on the cob was great, smothered in a great aioli and seasoned with 'jointrub'. And the cornbread was a generous hunk of crumbly goodness. I also thought the bourbon bar it is attached to is a nice little place with some amazing cocktails. All in all, though, it's not the greatest place in new york, but a handy point for those that don't want to go into Manhattan. Unremarkable but not disappointing.
Tiffin Wallah - Curry Hill Indian lunch buffet. My coworker swears it is the best joint in the area and I am inclined to agree with him. Oresti and I first tried it two years prior when it first opened and was featured in NY Mag's best of list that summer. When he suggested it for a summer intern good bye party, I whole heartedly agreed (granted, a free company lunch anywhere gets my vote).
It's entirely vegetarian and entirely buffet. I couldn't tell you, exactly, what I ate because I couldn't really recognize everything. But it doesn't matter because it's all good and it's all you could eat. It's vegetarian, it's kosher, it's delicious. 3 plates and 2 beers later and I was a happy, stuffed camper.
Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery - Read on Chowhound, I spent weeks considered the trek to the LES from my Kips Bay job and finally made the trek. And boy am I glad I did. My first delivery was a house warming gift to good friends Madelyn and Jill. The next day, I went back (since they were sold out of the Summer strawberry cupcake the day before) and had a sampling of my own. Let me tell you, get the strawberry cupcake before they stop selling them. They are amazing! They are falling apart with strawberry goodness permeating throughout the cake and a frosting that is amazing.
The pumpkin spice comes in a close second with a hearty, tasty cake that is complimented perfectly by the cream cheese frosting. It's like the pumpkin bread that I remember from my childhood. God I love autumn flavors.
The Sassy red velvet had a rich dense cocoa crumb, moreso than I am used to in a red velvet. And the buttercream frosting is satin smooth. It's a real winner.
The black and White (buttercream with a cocoa cake) was a little dry which was a minor stumble for them but when you put out specialty cakes like these, who can be disappointed?
Maybe I just fell in love with the backstory of Sugar Sweet Sunshine, but it's a favorite in my book.
I recently upgraded my Mac to Snow Leopard (all my PCs still run XP professional) and at our pseudo upgrade party, we tried to get food. We wanted to return to Tavern on Nostrand, right near where we lived. But they were shuttered. On a saturday evening. Way to suck guys.
So we headed into the city (ended up seeing Extract with them as well) for a bite to eat with Kyle and Satoko. I invited my childhood friend Josh, who recently graduated from UC Berkeley to attend NYU Law; someone I've known since I was 5. We went to El Cantinero, a classic hang out for a casual meal with friends as I grew up at NYU. Do you like cheesy tex-mex food with Sombreros for the birthday boy? So do I, that's why I eat here. This really epitomizes the joke that all Mexican food tastes the same, because everything here is basically just meat, beans, rice, and cheese in a tortilla. But the pitchers of margaritas are fun!
Finally Labor Day weekend involved a brunch meeting of epic proportions. Bottomless brunch at Bondi Road resulted in the lot of us, all 12, with endless mimosas, a few shots of tequila-passion fruit-strawberry concoctions on the house, and a hangar steak, topped with bacon, poached eggs, and hollandaise. The food was unremarkable but the early afternoon drunch with the gang made up for it with flying colors. If you want to have a fun, relaxed, booze fueled meal with friends, it no reason Bondi Road (and Sunburnt Cow) are staples of the LES. It's times like these that I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes:
We should look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink.
And while I am sorry for not updating, I promise to keep eating. See you later.
-Ryan Read More......
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Raaaaaaarrrrrrrr
So I forgot where I first heard about Dinosaur Bar B Que but it's been a point of interest for a while. Then Emily posted this article. And that was the straw that broke the camel's back. I had had enough. So I put into motion the plan for an outing. And my friends jumped on board.
Despite some severe 1 train troubles, we finally made it all the way up to Harlem on a Saturday night. And even though they wouldn't let me reserve a table, we were able to be put on the on time list. Thanks to Julia for being clever and taking the 2 right past all those pesky local stops.
But there is a reason this place was booked up for the night. The food is GOOD. Because I wanted to get a full range of flavor, I opted for the Brisket and Pork plate (I purposely saved the ribs because I owe someone a return trip)
The pork was sweet and tender, the taste of time and care. It had a rich smoke and a soft touch. The brisket, a normally tougher cut of meat, was also lovingly cared for, with extra time put in to bring out the best in the beef.
To accompany my big plate of animals, I chose the traditional potato (the Syracuse style salt potatoes) and the mac and cheese. The potatoes are bite size, fork tender morsels floating in a delicious butter pool. Nothing could be better. The mac and cheese had an admirable kick and sneaks up on you like a brick in your gut.
Finally, the cornbread was amazing. None too sweet, with a fine crumb. The only thing that made it better was to let it soak in the potatoes' pool.
What a fine meal.
Read More......
Despite some severe 1 train troubles, we finally made it all the way up to Harlem on a Saturday night. And even though they wouldn't let me reserve a table, we were able to be put on the on time list. Thanks to Julia for being clever and taking the 2 right past all those pesky local stops.
But there is a reason this place was booked up for the night. The food is GOOD. Because I wanted to get a full range of flavor, I opted for the Brisket and Pork plate (I purposely saved the ribs because I owe someone a return trip)
The pork was sweet and tender, the taste of time and care. It had a rich smoke and a soft touch. The brisket, a normally tougher cut of meat, was also lovingly cared for, with extra time put in to bring out the best in the beef.
To accompany my big plate of animals, I chose the traditional potato (the Syracuse style salt potatoes) and the mac and cheese. The potatoes are bite size, fork tender morsels floating in a delicious butter pool. Nothing could be better. The mac and cheese had an admirable kick and sneaks up on you like a brick in your gut.
Finally, the cornbread was amazing. None too sweet, with a fine crumb. The only thing that made it better was to let it soak in the potatoes' pool.
What a fine meal.
Read More......
Friday, August 7, 2009
Blogging for Beer
What's a good meal without a good drink? And what's a good bar without good friend? That's why tonight, after work, my friends and I are hitting up Black Bear Lodge for happy hour!
And in honor of the birthday of the internet, all of us bloggers are being rewarded for our hard work! Or since I am doing this at the lab, lack thereof...
It's the little things in life that make everything work out. Read More......
And in honor of the birthday of the internet, all of us bloggers are being rewarded for our hard work! Or since I am doing this at the lab, lack thereof...
It's the little things in life that make everything work out. Read More......
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Born but to banquet, and to drain the bowl
I'll admit it, I do not think there is any chance that I will ever be a gourmet. I enjoy food a lot, for sure, and I think I even have a relatively aware sense of taste. The problem is that I am not nearly particular enough. I am too easy to please. A bad burger, is still a burger to me. I'll still eat it and be happy. I am not discriminatory in what I eat. I mean, one of my favorite meals is still corn dogs and french fries (or tater tots) (and covered in cheese). And while I am still weary of eating, say, ANYTHING listed here, doesn't mean I probably wouldn't try a bite or two. I'm a food slut, giving up taste space to anything that wants in. And I'll enjoy it.
And at the same time, as I am growing older, I find my fundamental preferences changing, in both broadening and narrowing aspects. I was quite particular about certain things, from hating mayonnaise on my sandwich to craving hot dogs. Now, if the waitress leaves a dab on my turkey club or only thai food is available, I just roll with it. At the same time, I can no longer eat an entire package of oreos in one sitting anymore nor do I quite enjoy pixie stix as much.
For the life of me, I still cannot appreciate a fine wine. But I can discern between at least 3 qualities of vodka. I prefer wheat beers and tend to avoid porters. But cannot enjoy a scotch older than me like I should.
We'll see where life takes me, but for now I think I am content enjoying the simple pleasures that foods give me, in any form.
Sorry Moliere, I live to eat. Read More......
And at the same time, as I am growing older, I find my fundamental preferences changing, in both broadening and narrowing aspects. I was quite particular about certain things, from hating mayonnaise on my sandwich to craving hot dogs. Now, if the waitress leaves a dab on my turkey club or only thai food is available, I just roll with it. At the same time, I can no longer eat an entire package of oreos in one sitting anymore nor do I quite enjoy pixie stix as much.
For the life of me, I still cannot appreciate a fine wine. But I can discern between at least 3 qualities of vodka. I prefer wheat beers and tend to avoid porters. But cannot enjoy a scotch older than me like I should.
We'll see where life takes me, but for now I think I am content enjoying the simple pleasures that foods give me, in any form.
Sorry Moliere, I live to eat. Read More......
Sunday, July 26, 2009
A summary of things I probably will never get around to mentioning:
Office Party at Amber
Brunch at Cafe Orlin
Brunch at Beast
Black Bean Taco pizza at Vinny's after Brooklyn Brewery(?)
Chavella's taco delivery
Boston Market Feast with Timbits
July 4th cookout
TNBC meeting at The Smith
Reliving freshman year, eating at Kimmel
and countless other events.
If all three of you readers have any interest in my insights into any of these things, leave a note and maybe I'll get around to it. Otherwise, I have a lot more food to eat. Read More......
Office Party at Amber
Brunch at Cafe Orlin
Brunch at Beast
Black Bean Taco pizza at Vinny's after Brooklyn Brewery(?)
Chavella's taco delivery
Boston Market Feast with Timbits
July 4th cookout
TNBC meeting at The Smith
Reliving freshman year, eating at Kimmel
and countless other events.
If all three of you readers have any interest in my insights into any of these things, leave a note and maybe I'll get around to it. Otherwise, I have a lot more food to eat. Read More......
A Bar of One's Own
Last night was a belated housewarming party of sorts for us here out in Crown Heights and I would venture to say that it was a successful event. We had a little pre party dinner, with dinner from Udom Thai, a thai delivery place I found using teh intarwebz. But that was really just a footnote (alongside deliveries of A Slice of Brooklyn and Dominoes).
The real gem of mention is Tavern on Nostrand, a bar around the corner from our little apartment. We stopped in on this place the morning (or afternoon) after, for a quaint little brunch.
I cannot help but feel that our delivery thai suffered from food not designed to travel that far from the restaurant. I had the Udom Basil Chicken and while it was fine, it came in a plastic container drowned in its own juices. Steaming and slightly limping. It did pack a reasonable spice and the prices were fair. The spring rolls did stay crisp which was clutch, and the sweet spicy dipping glaze they were packaged with was a pleasant treat. It is my opinion that I should probably visit, sit down, and dine in the actual restaurant to make a more informed opinion of the food overall. In retrospect, I also wish I had ordered a noodle dish (just because noodles are awesome).
But really why I wanted to write was because of Tavern on Nostrand. Having just moved from PCV, being near several Irish and Sports Bars (my favorites, obviously being MJ Armstrong's and Prof. Thom's) I was glad to see a bar nearby.
After talking about visiting it for several days, we finally made plans to visit it after the party and Kyle, Evan, Melanie, and I had a throughly enjoyable experience.
The dining area was surprisingly well set up, linen tableclothes and napkins, fresh salt and pepper grinders, and a quaint menu. I had a 3 egg omelet with tomatoes, onions, and cheddar, with bacon, home fries, toast, and a mimosa. A nice midday brunch, indeed. The waitress was kind, if a bit overworked (nearly forgot Evan's bacon), and even the owner introduced himself. He seems like a guy who likes running a bar. Anyways, they both made sure that we had everything we needed, from hot sauce to more coffee. They really wanted to promote a loyal clientele, and showed us a dinner menu and talked of the night's specials. And truly, it seemed like a place where I would feel welcome coming back to on a regular basis.
Indeed, I am excited to drink beers and eat burgers only just around the corner from my apartment. Crown Heights, in my opinion, just got a touch brighter.
Read More......
The real gem of mention is Tavern on Nostrand, a bar around the corner from our little apartment. We stopped in on this place the morning (or afternoon) after, for a quaint little brunch.
I cannot help but feel that our delivery thai suffered from food not designed to travel that far from the restaurant. I had the Udom Basil Chicken and while it was fine, it came in a plastic container drowned in its own juices. Steaming and slightly limping. It did pack a reasonable spice and the prices were fair. The spring rolls did stay crisp which was clutch, and the sweet spicy dipping glaze they were packaged with was a pleasant treat. It is my opinion that I should probably visit, sit down, and dine in the actual restaurant to make a more informed opinion of the food overall. In retrospect, I also wish I had ordered a noodle dish (just because noodles are awesome).
But really why I wanted to write was because of Tavern on Nostrand. Having just moved from PCV, being near several Irish and Sports Bars (my favorites, obviously being MJ Armstrong's and Prof. Thom's) I was glad to see a bar nearby.
After talking about visiting it for several days, we finally made plans to visit it after the party and Kyle, Evan, Melanie, and I had a throughly enjoyable experience.
The dining area was surprisingly well set up, linen tableclothes and napkins, fresh salt and pepper grinders, and a quaint menu. I had a 3 egg omelet with tomatoes, onions, and cheddar, with bacon, home fries, toast, and a mimosa. A nice midday brunch, indeed. The waitress was kind, if a bit overworked (nearly forgot Evan's bacon), and even the owner introduced himself. He seems like a guy who likes running a bar. Anyways, they both made sure that we had everything we needed, from hot sauce to more coffee. They really wanted to promote a loyal clientele, and showed us a dinner menu and talked of the night's specials. And truly, it seemed like a place where I would feel welcome coming back to on a regular basis.
Indeed, I am excited to drink beers and eat burgers only just around the corner from my apartment. Crown Heights, in my opinion, just got a touch brighter.
Read More......
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Taste tripping party
I know I have been slacking lately in my blogging duties, and all two of you readers have been missing out. It's no excuse, but I've been recently hired and been working for the NYU School of Medicine as a cardiothoracic surgeon. Just kidding, I'm a cardiothoracic research technician. It's less exciting than it sounds but it's good to know I have a job.
So I've been griping about waking up early and commuting and then just lazing about when not in actual work. But the other night I was invited by my good friend Madelyn a birthday party for her co-worker Betty, a sweet gal who has joined us before on a TNBC adventure or two. And one exciting thing? The theme of the party was a taste tripping food sampling!
So this fruit, the miracle berry, has the bizarre property of turning sour and acidic fruits to the sweetest taste experience. Though the science behind it is still less than perfectly understood, it has seen a recent revival since its introduction in the 70s. Through the power of the internet, freeze dried tablet forms of the berries can be ordered and delivered right to your door, so you can host your own party!
The pill itself is reddish pink and readily dissolves on your tongue. Make sure it coats as much of your taste buds as possible to ensure the best effects. After it's completely melted away, dig in and prepare for a crazy taste experience!
I started with a lime wedge. And let me tell you, miracle fruits make citrus AMAZING. It tasted like those sugar coated candies, except juicy and refreshing as well.
I had a sugar free goat cheese frosted cupcake and it tasted like cream cheese on shortbread.
Licorice vines became strangely tolerable.
Pickles were sweet, vibrant, and alltogether enjoyable.
Salt and Vinegar chips were puzzling. Not sure how to quite describe them. The salt was there...the vinegar wasn't...but it wasn't like a potato chips.
Guinness openned with a creamy note, broke upon the palette, and finished with chocolatey notes on the aftertaste. Kinda like an egg cream maybe.
Guacamole also took on a sweet flavor, but combined with it's creamy texture, it was reminiscent of ice cream or something. It was awesome. and confusing.
Another note, miracle fruit does not alter spicy flavors, so the onions in the dip and the jalapeno chips married their heat with a sugary sweetness, kinda like general tso's chicken except....not.
And be careful, the miracle fruit has the ability to completely nullify even the cheapest tasting of vodka, turning a vodka cranberry into fruit punch.
This was an amazing event and I am glad I had the chance to experience it. Having your perceptions of taste completely blown is something that mere words cannot adequately describe. Do yourself a favor and order some for yourself and friends and have your own taste tripping party. Believe me when I say it'll be worth it.
Read More......
So I've been griping about waking up early and commuting and then just lazing about when not in actual work. But the other night I was invited by my good friend Madelyn a birthday party for her co-worker Betty, a sweet gal who has joined us before on a TNBC adventure or two. And one exciting thing? The theme of the party was a taste tripping food sampling!
So this fruit, the miracle berry, has the bizarre property of turning sour and acidic fruits to the sweetest taste experience. Though the science behind it is still less than perfectly understood, it has seen a recent revival since its introduction in the 70s. Through the power of the internet, freeze dried tablet forms of the berries can be ordered and delivered right to your door, so you can host your own party!
The pill itself is reddish pink and readily dissolves on your tongue. Make sure it coats as much of your taste buds as possible to ensure the best effects. After it's completely melted away, dig in and prepare for a crazy taste experience!
I started with a lime wedge. And let me tell you, miracle fruits make citrus AMAZING. It tasted like those sugar coated candies, except juicy and refreshing as well.
I had a sugar free goat cheese frosted cupcake and it tasted like cream cheese on shortbread.
Licorice vines became strangely tolerable.
Pickles were sweet, vibrant, and alltogether enjoyable.
Salt and Vinegar chips were puzzling. Not sure how to quite describe them. The salt was there...the vinegar wasn't...but it wasn't like a potato chips.
Guinness openned with a creamy note, broke upon the palette, and finished with chocolatey notes on the aftertaste. Kinda like an egg cream maybe.
Guacamole also took on a sweet flavor, but combined with it's creamy texture, it was reminiscent of ice cream or something. It was awesome. and confusing.
Another note, miracle fruit does not alter spicy flavors, so the onions in the dip and the jalapeno chips married their heat with a sugary sweetness, kinda like general tso's chicken except....not.
And be careful, the miracle fruit has the ability to completely nullify even the cheapest tasting of vodka, turning a vodka cranberry into fruit punch.
This was an amazing event and I am glad I had the chance to experience it. Having your perceptions of taste completely blown is something that mere words cannot adequately describe. Do yourself a favor and order some for yourself and friends and have your own taste tripping party. Believe me when I say it'll be worth it.
Read More......
Friday, June 19, 2009
TNBC -- The Burger Joint
Though hardly a secret anymore, The Burger Joint, hidden behind a dark curtain within the lobby of the fancy Le Parker Meridien Hotel, has become a sort of burger lovers clubhouse, with only a neon sign (and huge ass line) to indicate it's locale.
Madelyn and I met uptown on the streets, and though I had been to the burger joint once before, I was a little lost. Not my home turf, we wandered the block a bit (reminiscent of our wandering in the west village, god why am I so bad at navigating NY?)
The menu is concise, which is good because you need to be ready to order by the time you get up to the register (or, in soup nazi fashion, back of the line!). Simply tell them what you want on your burger (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, or mustard) and how you want it done (medium rare, as if it were a question), sodas, fries, beers, or milk shakes.
Our burgers have a flavor that reflect the method of cooking, over a real flame. The fries came in paper bags, hot to the touch. Just they way everything should be. The tiny space makes competing for a table a necessity (I had Mad snap one up while I placed our order), the bad wood paneling, the walls of autographs, and the movie posters make for a fun, kitschy environment. It certainly puts one at ease when compared tot he stuffy air of the hotel lobby. Fast food for the fancy I suppose. In fact, it was just like a high quality fast food burger (and makes me miss The Habit even more). No brioche bun or kobe beef, just an attention to how to prepare a tasty burger. Indeed, the style of presentation, the long lines, and the notoriety make it easy to draw parallels to Shake Shack (some would argue Burger Joint serving as Shake Shack's 'father') and that's not too unfair. And while Shake Shack still stands as the standard to compare everything else to, I will concede that I really (really) enjoyed everything about the fries at Burger Joint.
So yes, burgers still reign supreme in Madison Sq. Park, but don't count The Burger Joint out. It still has a certain je ne sais quoi that makes it a worthy destination for anybody interested in eating their way through NYC.
Read More......
Madelyn and I met uptown on the streets, and though I had been to the burger joint once before, I was a little lost. Not my home turf, we wandered the block a bit (reminiscent of our wandering in the west village, god why am I so bad at navigating NY?)
The menu is concise, which is good because you need to be ready to order by the time you get up to the register (or, in soup nazi fashion, back of the line!). Simply tell them what you want on your burger (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, or mustard) and how you want it done (medium rare, as if it were a question), sodas, fries, beers, or milk shakes.
Our burgers have a flavor that reflect the method of cooking, over a real flame. The fries came in paper bags, hot to the touch. Just they way everything should be. The tiny space makes competing for a table a necessity (I had Mad snap one up while I placed our order), the bad wood paneling, the walls of autographs, and the movie posters make for a fun, kitschy environment. It certainly puts one at ease when compared tot he stuffy air of the hotel lobby. Fast food for the fancy I suppose. In fact, it was just like a high quality fast food burger (and makes me miss The Habit even more). No brioche bun or kobe beef, just an attention to how to prepare a tasty burger. Indeed, the style of presentation, the long lines, and the notoriety make it easy to draw parallels to Shake Shack (some would argue Burger Joint serving as Shake Shack's 'father') and that's not too unfair. And while Shake Shack still stands as the standard to compare everything else to, I will concede that I really (really) enjoyed everything about the fries at Burger Joint.
So yes, burgers still reign supreme in Madison Sq. Park, but don't count The Burger Joint out. It still has a certain je ne sais quoi that makes it a worthy destination for anybody interested in eating their way through NYC.
Read More......
Monday, June 15, 2009
That's just Ricest
You may have heard, I recently moved out to Crown Heights in Brooklyn. I'm not sure it's fully set in, but it means drastic changes to my life. Gone are the old roomies (save one), missed but not forgotten, and reunited are the stars of my first two years of college.
And what does this mean for my diet? Well, it's a combination of the return of old habits, the continuance of certain traditions, and the emergence of what is sure to be new opportunities.
Basic groceries do not seem to have shifted too much, though purchases at Trader Joe's may become quite infrequent (though, located in Union Square, it's not out of the question) (I have yet to see the one in Brooklyn, though am considering venturing out there soon). But it seems like I am tempted to do the majority of my grocery shopping at Target, of all places. Surprisingly, it can compete in selection with even Gristedes and Morton Williams (though, I wonder who that reflects more upon) from my past two years in Kips Bay (Food Emporium in Union Square holds a weird affectionate spot in my heart though).
When I first moved in here, after narrowly avoiding a disaster that would make the nightly news and destroy a uhaul with all of my worldly possessions, we settled onto a heap of boxes and ate at one of first pizza joints we could find on Kyle's iPhone, A Slice of Brooklyn (not to be confused with the eating tour). A few six packs and pizzas later and we were completely happy. I need to reevaluate that place because the combination of exhaustion and hunger from moving and not eating all day and the relief of having all of my stuff finally in the building it is supposed to be made it the most satisfying meal I've had in a long while. Sure the pizza was hot, the cheese melty, and it beautifully right to our door, but there was a certain bias that shaded better judgment. Not that I can fault A Slice of Brooklyn for any of this, I just think I need another shot at it.
About a week ago, we finally got around to our Alien/Aliens double feature movie night. The first movie was surrounded with pizza, again; this time out near Mad's place, complete with garlic knots that looked more like...let's say snails. Anyways, we got off to a late start and decided to put the sequel on the queue for the next night. Our friends arrive and we of course want Chinese delivery. But being out in Crown Heights, the college haunt of Yummy House is far from accessible and we start scouring the internt for options. This is when the name No. 1 Chinese Restaurant comes up. With a name like that, how could it go wrong?
We ordered, as per Kyle's constant insistence General Tso's Chicken, Madelyn's usual delight Lo Mein, a few dumplings and springs rolls to round out the meal. Mad and I tacked on our usual diet coke and coke, respectively, at the end and were delightfully surprised to find an additional two sodas (two free with a purchase over 20 bucks) (30 bucks gets you free general tso's). And I will admit, this place, while not looking like much on the street, knows how to fry up some tasty Chinese-American food. It's a place I believe in. And, like seemingly everything in Brooklyn, is a few bucks cheaper than Manhattan. The Chicken was crisp and spicy, the noodles savory and tender, and the dumplings a delicate balance of sweet and savory.
Though it may take a while until I go back, if only because I want to try a few more places just to see how they measure up, this place is one to remember. And I like the name.
I certainly miss the city but still eat there often enough. And am excited at the prospect of entering a new culinary opportunity.
Read More......
And what does this mean for my diet? Well, it's a combination of the return of old habits, the continuance of certain traditions, and the emergence of what is sure to be new opportunities.
Basic groceries do not seem to have shifted too much, though purchases at Trader Joe's may become quite infrequent (though, located in Union Square, it's not out of the question) (I have yet to see the one in Brooklyn, though am considering venturing out there soon). But it seems like I am tempted to do the majority of my grocery shopping at Target, of all places. Surprisingly, it can compete in selection with even Gristedes and Morton Williams (though, I wonder who that reflects more upon) from my past two years in Kips Bay (Food Emporium in Union Square holds a weird affectionate spot in my heart though).
When I first moved in here, after narrowly avoiding a disaster that would make the nightly news and destroy a uhaul with all of my worldly possessions, we settled onto a heap of boxes and ate at one of first pizza joints we could find on Kyle's iPhone, A Slice of Brooklyn (not to be confused with the eating tour). A few six packs and pizzas later and we were completely happy. I need to reevaluate that place because the combination of exhaustion and hunger from moving and not eating all day and the relief of having all of my stuff finally in the building it is supposed to be made it the most satisfying meal I've had in a long while. Sure the pizza was hot, the cheese melty, and it beautifully right to our door, but there was a certain bias that shaded better judgment. Not that I can fault A Slice of Brooklyn for any of this, I just think I need another shot at it.
About a week ago, we finally got around to our Alien/Aliens double feature movie night. The first movie was surrounded with pizza, again; this time out near Mad's place, complete with garlic knots that looked more like...let's say snails. Anyways, we got off to a late start and decided to put the sequel on the queue for the next night. Our friends arrive and we of course want Chinese delivery. But being out in Crown Heights, the college haunt of Yummy House is far from accessible and we start scouring the internt for options. This is when the name No. 1 Chinese Restaurant comes up. With a name like that, how could it go wrong?
We ordered, as per Kyle's constant insistence General Tso's Chicken, Madelyn's usual delight Lo Mein, a few dumplings and springs rolls to round out the meal. Mad and I tacked on our usual diet coke and coke, respectively, at the end and were delightfully surprised to find an additional two sodas (two free with a purchase over 20 bucks) (30 bucks gets you free general tso's). And I will admit, this place, while not looking like much on the street, knows how to fry up some tasty Chinese-American food. It's a place I believe in. And, like seemingly everything in Brooklyn, is a few bucks cheaper than Manhattan. The Chicken was crisp and spicy, the noodles savory and tender, and the dumplings a delicate balance of sweet and savory.
Though it may take a while until I go back, if only because I want to try a few more places just to see how they measure up, this place is one to remember. And I like the name.
I certainly miss the city but still eat there often enough. And am excited at the prospect of entering a new culinary opportunity.
Read More......
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