Nibbles of Tidbits, a Food Blog

It’s ABOUT TIME… my long promised Meal Kit Comparison post. We tried Sun Basket, Gobble, Marley Spoon, Green Chef, Purple Carrot, Dinnerly and Freshly. We rate and review each of these meal kit companies, recipes and respective ingredients below. I learned A LOT and report about it after making and trying the aforementioned and 100+ Blue Apron meal kits.

Meal Kit Comparison – Starts with Sun Basket

Sun Basket — Fast Chicken Salad with Kale, Kiwi and Apples (Recipe 1). Top photo. The Kale arrived pre-cut. I found myself picking out the inferior, dry pieces. I would rather chop it myself. I usually remove the stem/center, but it was included in the chopped Kale. The provided dressing was just okay. And the Coconut Flakes would’ve been better toasted, seemed like an after-thought garnish. We (Matt & I) rate each recipe starting with this one.

Sun Basket Recipe 1: Matt 6 1/2, Shelly 6 (Out of 10).

Sun Basket — Greek Salmon over Zucchini Noodles and Wilted Greens (Recipe 2). I tossed out the pre-chopped Greens due to a bad smell. The Salmon was dry, though not overcooked. I liked the Tomato and Olive Relish. We liked the Zucchini Noodles, but they’re hard to stir and preserve as ‘Noodles’ when cooking. That’s fine, but good to know.

Sun Basket Recipe 2: Matt 6 1/2, Shelly 5 1/2.

Sun Basket – Mediterranean-style Cod with Artichoke Hearts and Kalamata Olives (Recipe 3). Cod quality wasn’t that great. Potatoes didn’t have much flavor though Salt and Peppered. I liked steaming the Fish over the Vegetables. Learned how well this cooking method works. Dish was easy to make and clean-up.

Sun Basket Recipe 3: Matt 6, Shelly 6.

Sun Basket Overall — Menus are just okay, not as exciting as others, seemed somewhat repetitive with ingredients. Though Menu is international, which is good. Website is friendly and easy to use. Choose (3) out of (18) different recipes/meal kits. Recipes arrive in booklet form. Also within it are all the recipes you didn’t choose, which is nice. Best recipe score was 6 1/2.

Meal Kit Comparison – Trying Gobble

Gobble – Nice packaging, similar to Blue Apron. Received one incorrect recipe card, but was easily able to print the correct one from Gobble’s website. They provide smaller recipe cards than other companies.

Gobble – Pan-Roasted Chicken in Three Peppercorn Sauce with Green Beans and Mashed Potatoes (Recipe 1). Potatoes were not good. Gravy made up for it. Chicken was tough, though not overcooked. Odd cuts of chicken were provided. Not as pretty as the online photos.

This is how the Mashed Potatoes and Gravy arrived (below). No bueno.

Gobble Recipe 1: Matt 7, Shelly 6.

Gobble – Louisiana Shrimp with White Cheddar Grits (Recipe 2). Had to further devein the ‘deveined’ Shrimp. Like the Mashed Potatoes in Recipe 1, I don’t like unloading grits from a plastic bag to heat them in the microwave. Also, I didn’t like the pre-cut trinity. It looked a bit degraded in freshness, translucent Onions.

Gobble Recipe 2: Matt 7 1/2, Shelly 7.

Gobble – Brazilian Black Bean Stew with Roasted Squash and Swiss Chard (Recipe 3). I had to toss-out the provided Swiss Chard. It was too dried out. It’s scary not knowing what’s inside a compact bag of pre-cut Greens. Good thing we’re growing our own Swiss Chard. I love the idea and components of this recipe, but the pre-made beans and rice were just okay. I plan to re-create this recipe sometime. Our score for this recipe is below. Best overall recipe score was 8.

Gobble Recipe 3: Matt 8, Shelly 7 1/2.

Meal Kit Comparison – Trying Marley Spoon

Marley Spoon – Box was delayed a day, because company didn’t have enough ice to ship. Recipe card photos are dull in color and paper is un-glossed. Nice packaging. Largest, tallest box received.

Marley Spoon – Cheesy Roasted Pepper Panini with Goat Cheese & Spinach and Side Salad (Recipe 1). Too much filling for the Panini, it overflowed. A Bun for the Panini Bread is not the best option. No photo.

Marley Spoon Recipe 1: Matt 8, Shelly 8.

Marley Spoon – Cilantro Chicken and Rice with Bell Pepper and Lime (Recipe 2). Flavorful, but wouldn’t garnish it with raw onions again. It’s unnecessary and over takes the dish. Having to use a blender or food processor is a first for a boxed Meal Kit. Good thing I have one.

Marley Spoon Recipe 2: Matt 7 1/2, Shelly 8.

Marley Spoon – Four Cheese Ravioli Alla Norma with Crispy Garlic Breadcrumbs (Recipe 3). It was super easy to make and very good.

Marley Spoon Recipe 3: Matt 8, Shelly 8.

Overall… good quality, nice packaging, tasty meals and good recipe selections. Marley Spoon costs about the same as Blue Apron, my long-time favorite Meal Kit company (so-far). Best recipe score for Marley Spoon was 8.

Meal Kit Comparison – Trying Green Chef

Green Chef also offers Paleo, Vegan, Keto and Gluten-free meal kit options. Very nice packaging. All looked good, though much was pre-prepared.

A pre-cut Red Pepper was provided for a recipe. I want a whole one. There are small Red Bell Peppers. Pre-cut Onions too. I don’t like that either. They degrade, but I used them, and it didn’t ruin the meal.

Green Chef – Harissa Spiced Tuna Steaks and Apricot Tomato Sauce, Kale Pistachios and Couscous (Recipe 1). The Tuna was nice looking. Recipe said to cook the Yellowfin Tuna 3 to 5 minutes per side, but was too long for the thin Fish provided. I cooked ours 2 1/2 minutes per side and it was still overcooked, as expected, but all was flavorful.

Green Chef Recipe 1: Matt 8, Shelly 8.

Green Chef – Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps with Quinoa, Toasted Nuts and Seeds, with Lemon Pesto Aioli (Recipe 2). I liked the Couscous with the Vinegar, Agave and mixed Toasted Nuts. The Dressing was just okay, pre-made. Homemade would have been better.

Green Chef Recipe 2: Matt 8, Shelly 8.

Green Chef – Cheese Steak Stuffed Pepper with Provolone Cheese, Spiced Potato Hash with Red Peppers (Recipe 3). Uneven, pre-cut Onions and Grated Cheese were provided. The small Onion pieces burned a little while cooking. Not a good thing. However, not a bad flavor overall. Our score for this recipe is below. Best recipe score was 8.

Green Chef Recipe 3: Matt 7, Shelly 7.

Meal Kit Comparison – Trying Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot – All was fresh and impressive. Some stuff was pre-cut, but mostly whole ingredients. Only the hardest thing to cut, the Squash was pre-cut, which was helpful. A booklet of all recipes was provided, as like Sun Basket. Only six recipes to choose from online at this time.

Purple Carrot – Black Bean and Polenta Casserole with Chile Butter (Recipe 1). The large bag of Spinach was very fresh. I was a little nervous about the Vegan Cream Cheese and Vegan Butter provided for this recipe, but didn’t notice a difference. That was nice to discover.

Purple Carrot Recipe 1: Matt 7, Shelly 7.

Purple Carrot – Autumn Bibimbap with Gochujang Brussels Sprouts and Sesame Aioli (Recipe 2). I didn’t use the Kimchi or Vegenaise (Mayo instead). I didn’t like the color of the Vegenaise, yellow-ish. I liked the Brussels Sprouts with Gochujang. The Fried Rice ended up too hard. Seems 5 to 7 minutes is too long not to stir the Rice. I don’t know. Kind of a weird recipe, which I like, but it didn’t work properly.

Purple Carrot Recipe 2: Matt 6 1/2, Shelly 6.

Purple Carrot – Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Cranberries and Hazelnuts (Recipe 3). A beautiful photo of this recipe is on Purple Carrot’s booklet cover. Had to toss out the Broccoli Rabe for this recipe, since it didn’t last a week. Used Swiss Chard from our garden instead. Added leftover sauteed Onions before the Squash. All was tasty with the Dried Cranberries, and had good texture with the Toasted Hazelnuts.

Purple Carrot Recipe 3: Matt 8 1/2, Shelly 8.

Recipes were grouped in plastic bags. I prefer no bags, loose ingredients or in paper bags, because all seems to stay fresher longer.

Vegan Butter and Cream Cheese work okay. You won’t notice the difference. Though I’m still sketchy on Vegenaise (Mayo’s substitute). Someday perhaps, or not. Best recipe score was 8 1/2.

Meal Kit Comparison – Trying Dinnerly

Dinnerly – Spinach and Ricotta Calzones with Tomato Garlic Dipping Sauce (Recipe 1). Crust was large and could have used more filling. I added Peppers to the filling too, and could have added more. It had a good flavor and texture.

Dinnerly Recipe 1: Matt 7, Shelly 7.

Dinnerly is one of the least expensive Meal Kits available. You download the recipe cards from the internet, instead of them being provided. The menus make me think that I might as well make the dish myself and save even more money. Easy ideas. Dinnerly’s website functions just like Marley Spoon’s. The companies are related. Dinnerly is budget Marley.

Dinnerly – Sausage and Kale Soup with Pasta and Parmesan (Recipe 2). It was just okay. A little bland. It made a lot of Soup. I added Beans for extra credit. I like the ‘extra credit’ options listed on the recipe cards. Helps company keep costs down, while suggesting something you might already have in your pantry.

Dinnerly Recipe 2: Matt 6 1/2, Shelly 6 1/2.

Dinnerly – Banh Mi Burger with Pickled Carrots and Cucumbers (Recipe 3). I didn’t like the provided Chipotle Mayo, weird taste. Would rather make my own combination.

Dinnerly Recipe 3: Matt 7, Shelly 6.

Overall… everything was just okay. With the right recipe choice, it could be a good dinner option, due to its price. And now I want to try Every Plate, Dinnerly’s budget meal kit rival I just discovered. I will amend this post after we try it. Best recipe score was 7.

Meal Kit Comparison – Trying Freshly (Not a Meal Kit, a Pre-Made Meal)

Freshly – Choose between 30 meals. Just heat in the microwave and eat. They arrived nicely packaged between three layers of ice packs. They are best heated in their respective packs, and then plated, to keep moist.

Freshly – We, mostly I, tried 6 different meals. Balsamic Turkey (Meal 1). The Vegetables were dry, cut too small and bland. The Turkey was tough. The Balsamic Mushrooms were good. Matt 6, Shelly 5. Pork Al Pastor (Meal 2). It was flavorful, could use a tortilla or chips for varied texture. Matt 6, Shelly 7. Moroccan Style Tagine (Meal 3). It was just okay. Had to pick out a few tough Vegetable Skins, and the small Onions in it were hard and not satisfying to eat. Seemed like a heated, frozen meal I’ve had before. And not any better. Shelly 5.

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Freshly – Buffalo Chicken and Cauliflower (Meal 4). Chicken was tender and good. Cauliflower was just okay, a little bland. Shelly 6. Southwest Chicken Bowl (Meal 5). It should have been tasty, but it was bland and dry. Needed Salt and Pepper and more sauce. The Corn in Freshly’s dishes seems once frozen or canned, not fresh. The Vegetables, Beans and Quinoa were dry too. The Chicken was tender and well cooked. Shelly 6. Meatballs and Spaghetti Squash (Meal 6). The Meatballs where okay. Sauce was very good. On a side note, I finally decided I don’t like the texture of Spaghetti Squash. Shelly 5.

What I learned from all…

I want to prepare everything on my own. I don’t want to receive anything pre-cut. I never purchased pre-cut items in the grocery store. Also, few ingredients can be combined to make something great. And, I can save money not buying a Meal Kit every week. I can make simple, fancy meals on my own from what I’ve learned from Blue Apron, elsewhere, and from this Meal Kit Comparison. I also saved money taking advantage of the introductory offers from each of these companies. You should too. See their pricing below.*

Meal Kit Comparison Pricing:

Sun Basket – Introductory offer is 50% off = $25.

Gobble – Introductory offer is 30% off = $42. Generally $79/week.

Marley Spoon – Introductory offer = $30.75. Generally $61.50/week.

Green Chef – Introductory offer is 40% off = $38. Generally $79/week.

Purple Carrot – Introductory offer $25 off. Generally $72/week.

Dinnerly – Introductory offer is $30. Generally $40/week.

Freshly – Introductory offer $45 for 6 Meals. Generally $60/week.

*PRICES are estimated and subject to change. See respective websites for up-to-date pricing and other information.

Orange County Restaurant Week will run March 2 – 9, 2019. It’s definitely one of the best times to dine out if/when in Orange County. Click HERE for a list of participating restaurants, prix fixe menus and prices. While this post is about Orange County Restaurant Week, the photo relates to an upcoming report comparing several meal kit companies… Blue Apron, Green Chef, Sun Basket, Gobble, Purple Carrot, Freshly, Dinnerly and Marley Spoon. We tried them ALL. That post is after OCRW. Until then, it’s time to enjoy a restaurant in OC.

I’ve made hundreds of Blue Apron meals, which we LOVE to eat.  It’s hard to pass up their unique, diverse, ever-changing tasty menus and the price is right too.  Blue Apron’s cost is lower than most Meal Kit Delivery companies.  Though due to curiosity and first-box discount incentives, we previously tried Hello Fresh, Plated and Home Chef and their respective reviews and comparisons to Blue Apron are linked in this sentence.  Now, we are underway trying several others — Sun Basket, Gobble, Purple Carrot, Green Chef, Marley Spoon, Freshly, Dinnerly, Factor 75, Balance/Bistro MD, Munchery, Global Belly, Takeout Kits, Shaker & Spoon (a cocktail club) and Burgabox (if they get back into the game).  Did you know there were so many?  This is far from a list of all of them, but some we plan to try.  After all has been delivered, prepared and consumed, a report of pros, cons, costs and more will be posted here on Nibbles of Tidbits.  We just finished (3) Sun Basket meals and (3) Gobble meals are scheduled to be delivered this week, and (3) Marley Spoon meals the week after that, etc.  Yes, our review is underway and I have a lot to say.  I already miss Blue Apron, but will definitely be fair.  Stay tuned.

Pictured:  Chicken Salad with Kale, Kiwi and Apples (Sun Basket)

We sure love, support and appreciate the Orange County Fair!  And this year, so far, we’ve had a lot of laughs at the OC Fair’s newest exhibit, My Fair Selfie.  For an extra $5, YOU can have your photo taken by OC Fair ‘My Fair Selfie’ attendants with your camera.  YOU hand them YOUR camera, choose your props, and then strike funny poses in front of 11 unique backgrounds.

As always, BIG thumbs up go to Chicken Charlie (above) and Dominic Palmieri (below), two long time, behind the scenes Chef Stars at the Orange County Fair.  We respect all the effort they put into making each Orange County Fair year a great one.  2018 is on track for greatness.

Thank you Charlie and Dominic, and so many others for your hard work and creativity.

HERE is the Orange County Fair’s link to some of the new, fun and crazy FOOD this year.

We’re glad to see many of the old favorites and especially like seeing the edgy, experimental food items, like those made with crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and Fruity Pebbles Cereal.

Each year it’s a surprise.

Deep Fried Shrimp Skewer with Chipotle Sauce and Fruity Pebbles (above) and Matt with a Unicorn Cotton Candy Rainbow Popcorn Dessert of sort (below).  I do not recall the exact specifications of each, but we enjoyed them.  The Unicorn-Thingamajig is made with liquid nitrogen and smokes like dry ice while you eat it, as shown in OC Fair movie link below.

OC Fair Movie — Max (30) second download to view short video of the Unicorn-Thingamajig.

Another My Fair Selfie vignette with giant Cotton Candy — How can you not have fun?!

PAUL STANLEY AND GENE SIMMONS OF KISS SALUTE THE TROOPS ON VETERANS DAY

The Rock Icons’ Rock & Brews Restaurants Will Offer Free Pulled Pork Sandwiches to Veterans, Active Military and First Responders on November 11, 2017.

Rock & Brews, the rock-inspired, family-friendly restaurant co-founded by Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, is paying tribute to veterans, active military and first responders on Veterans Day, November 11, by offering a complimentary meal* at participating restaurants with proof of service.

“We often forget that freedom is only free for those who don’t have to sacrifice to make it possible,” said Stanley and Simmons in a joint statement. “At Rock & Brews, November 11 is a special day and we show our gratitude and support for the women and men who have or continue to put their lives on the line for our country.”

All year round, Rock & Brews locations nationwide partner with local military and veteran organizations to support veterans and military personnel in their communities for their grand opening fundraisers and other events. To date, the Rock & Brews brand has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local organizations directly benefiting veterans and military.

For more information on Veterans Day offerings at Rock & Brews, visit www.rockandbrews.com to get more details regarding your local Rock & Brews restaurant.

*Complimentary meal options vary at participating locations. Only one choice per guest with proof of service. Choices may include pulled pork sandwich; Caesar salad; chicken Caesar salad; two topping pizza; or backstage burger.

About Rock & Brews:  Rock & Brews is a one-of-a-kind, rock-inspired restaurant and entertainment concept designed to engage people of all ages with quality comfort food and local favorites, a broad selection of craft and international beers, and an energized environment that is reminiscent of being at a family-friendly music event.  Founded by rock icons Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS, along with partners, restaurateur Michael Zislis and concert industry veterans Dave and Dell Furano, the first Rock & Brews opened near Los Angeles International Airport in Southern California in April of 2012.  Each of the brand’s 17 locations in the United States and Mexico boasts a backstage environment showcasing a “Great Wall of Rock,” iconic rock art, concert trusses and lighting and multiple flat screens sharing some of the greatest rock concert moments of all time.  Most offer a play area for kids and many are dog friendly.  For more information, please visit www.rockandbrews.com.

By Me:  The above press release is posted in honor of our Veterans.  I respect and appreciate their immense sacrifice for this beautiful country.  As a side note, I had a poster of Paul Stanley on my bedroom wall while growing up.  A poster of him, Adam Ant, David Bowie and a few others.  Back to the important stuff — When I learn of other meals being offered to Veterans, I’ll post the information below.  God Bless our Veterans and the USA.  Photos are from a previous visit to the Rock & Brews in Buena Park, CA.

Yes, Nibbles of Tidbits is still live.  And continuously eating — Mostly out and microwavable frozen meals while the kitchen was being remodeled, but now I’m cookin’ up a storm, as I like to say, though you wouldn’t know that from here lately.  All of that is sure to change having this beautiful, inspiring kitchen.  We just love it.  And food looks great here too.  I created this short, before and after video to show the dramatic change.  We set up a temporary kitchen in the garage, thought up a new design, selected a contractor, materials, colors, products and style, and hoped for the best.  We are very pleased with the final results, which shall be starring here.  We’re happy to present Nibbles of Tidbits’ new kitchen and we are thankful to/for all who made it possible.

The Slidebar Rock-N-Roll Kitchen — I love rock and roll and great food, especially together.  I had been to The Slidebar before to see a Black Sabbath cover band, but never ate there until recently. I didn’t know that The Slidebar’s full-name literally includes the word kitchen.  Now I know.

We were invited to The Slidebar to try the Cali Bandito Tacos — YES!  Yes, because they are made with Gringo Bandito Hot Sauce and we are fans of The Offspring, plus it’s good Hot Sauce. Dexter Holland, the singer of The Offspring makes Gringo Bandito Hot Sauce.

Carne Asada and Portobello Mushrooms are marinated in Gringo Bandito’s Original Red Hot Sauce for The Slidebar’s Cali Bandito Tacos.  The Mushrooms are marinated for the vegetarian version of the Cali Bandito Taco.  We tried both and really liked both.  Though I often prefer vegetarian, the Carne Asada Taco was my favorite.  The Beef was tender and very flavorful.

We’re told these Tacos pair best with a Modern Times IPA and we agree that the Orderville paired well. And as good as the Red Hot Sauce is, I like Gringo Bandito’s Green Hot Sauce better.

I wish I was there (above) eating them right now with this photographer.

Aside from The Slidebar’s cool interior, exterior and bands, I learned that most of their food is made from scratch.  The Salsa, Chips and Beans on the plate with the Tacos are all made from scratch.  And the Tortillas for the Tacos too.  All made from scratch.  It’s not just bar food.

I am impressed with Chef Brandon at The Slidebar.  Each dish tasted to be made with love.

My biggest take away — The SlideBAR is The Slidebar Rock-N-Roll KITCHEN.  I want more of their made from scratch food.  They say… Grub You Crave – Scratch Made, and we know it’s true.

Related:  The nearby Burger Parlor makes a Gringo Bandito Tostada Burger that’s terrific too.

We welcome Santa Maria BBQ to the neighborhood.  Yay!  Real BBQ is nearby.  I see a lot of BBQ places opening up around here, but mostly Korean BBQ.  That’s perfectly fine, but I’m starting to see too many.  I like variety.  And thus I’m happy that I now have quick-access to Smoked Meat, and especially excited that Santa Maria BBQ smokes Chicken too, because it’s one of my favorite things to eat.  Santa Maria BBQ smokes their Meat over genuine California Red Oak Wood.

Santa Maria BBQ is located at 8002 Orangethorpe Boulevard, Suite A, in Buena Park.  It’s within the new-ish Clark Commons Apartment Complex on the corner of Orangethorpe and Stanton.

Santa Maria BBQ offers indoor (below) and outdoor (above) seating.  I always like that.

It’s large, clean and stylish inside Santa Maria BBQ / Majestic Coffee & Tea.  There’s BBQ to be had on one side and Coffee, Tea & Dessert on the other.  It’s a nice combination.

Most Meats are smoked, then quick grilled.  Order at the adjacent counter.

And order Coffee, Tea & Dessert at the counter pictured above.

We had flavored Izze’s to drink this visit, but hope to have Beer and Wine next time.  Santa Maria BBQ is awaiting its liquor license to offer both.  Enlarge MENU above for a better view.

Loading wood into the smoker and lowering/raising the grill when necessary.  It smells so good.

They unfortunately ran out of my preferred BBQ picks, Smoked Chicken and Baby Back Ribs this day, but we plan to go back soon to try them.  If good, we’ll surely be regulars.  Santa Maria BBQ opens at 11:30 a.m. and closes at 8:00 p.m. daily, but could close earlier, if they run out of Meat or business is slow.  They are understandably gauging their supply and crowds.

BBQ To Go — Matt is taking ours out below.  They do catering too.

Where do I park?  We all wonder.  In back — Within the building cul-de-sac (below).  The spaces are numbered, but they are reserved for Santa Fe BBQ and Majestic Coffee & Tea customers.

You may also parallel park along Yard Street, in un-numbered spots, if available.

There does not seem to be parking out front on Orangethorpe.  I believe it’s all red, but will check that again.  However, Santa Maria BBQ did obtain permission from Sherwin-Williams (across the street) to use its parking lot, after Sherwin-Williams hours.  Santa Maria BBQ customers may park there, after Sherwin-Williams closes.  That’s a nice evening option.

We toast to Santa Maria BBQ and wish them much success.

To be continued.

It’s happening now through Sunday, August 13, 2017 and you don’t want to miss it.  We never do. The Orange County Fair has much to offer adults and children alike.  And it’s a great place for those adults who act like children, though we don’t know anyone like that. 😉  See you there.

The Fair will be at the Orange County Fair Grounds starting Friday, July 14th.  And we can’t wait. We will be there on July 22nd for a media event.  And before and after that date, because we love the OC Fair.  More about this year’s Orange County Fair to be reported here on Nibbles of Tidbits.

Bottle Logic Brewing — United in the thirst of knowledge and BEER.  It’s a hip brewery in Anaheim.  We stumbled upon it, after kitchen remodel shopping directly across the street.  We asked our phones where to get a Beer and lucked out learning about Bottle Logic.  Their Beer makes me love Beer, especially IPA’s.  And Bottle Logic loves dogs.  We brought Leon on our second visit.

The Constants is Bottle Logic’s Tasting Flight — It offers (5) tastes for $8.  Two IPA’s, a Brew, Ale and a Stout.  It’s how I fell for IPA’s.  Particularly the Recursion and Double Actuator.

Grab a stool at the bar, near the containers or outside, if available — With or without your dog.

A different Food Truck is parked outside Bottle Logic Brewing each day.

This day it was Falasophy — We had their Brussels Sprouts (above) with a Sweet and Spicy Tahini Sauce and Hummus & Zaatar Pita Chips (below) with Olive Oil and Cumin, both I’ve hoped to have again each subsequent visit, but haven’t timed it yet.  We absolutely loved both.  All was perfectly prepared and very flavorful.  The Food Truck schedule is posted on Bottle Logic’s website.

Water bowls for dogs are provided inside and out.  Thanks Bottle Logic.  Very nice!

Leon likes you too.  He’s with Matt above and below.  We’ll be back.

It’s such good brew, Matt gets a growler to-go.  And last time I was envious of him having it at home, so I’m getting one to-go next time.  Various brews are sold to-go in various sizes.

The line for brews can be long at times, but it moves along and it’s worth the wait.  We think.

We LOVE the Burger Parlor’s new Gringo Bandito Tostada Burger (pictured above) — It’s made with a Hormone-Free Nebraskan Beef Patty and includes a Crisp Tostada Shell (yes, it’s true), Crushed Avocado, Roasted Anaheim Chili, Marinated Carrots, Gringo Bandito Crema, Gringo Bandito Aioli and a Fried Egg.  The well-selected ingredients create an amazing Burger.

What is Gringo Bandito you might ask — It’s a Hot Sauce created by The Offspring’s Lead Singer, Dexter Holland.  Well, we also love The Offspring and saw them in concert the last two years at the Orange County Fair.  Together Dexter Holland and the Burger Parlor’s founder, Joseph Mahon created the Gringo Bandito Tostada Burger.  And it’s now on the Burger Parlor menu.

The Burger Parlor could make the best Onion Rings I’ve ever had.  We had them a few times previously and I’d considered writing an entire post about them, but didn’t get around to it.

Inside the Burger Parlor’s Fullerton location (above and below).  There’s another one in Orange.

They have Beer and Wine too, in addition to Milkshakes and Sodas — Cheers to that.

We were The Ramones #57 waiting for food delivery.

This visit we also had the Kali Burger made with Smoked Bacon, Crushed Avocado, Provolone Cheese, Peppers, Caramelized Onions, Arugula and Chipotle Aioli (below).  Another great combo.

We split and shared both.

It’s tricky cutting a Gringo Bandito Tostada Burger, due to the Tostada Shell (and Egg) on it.

A Tostada Shell is an unusual ingredient on a Burger, but it really works, especially with Marinated Carrots between the Burger and the bottom of the Bun.  Both are perfect with an Egg.

I may have a whole one next time, if I can decide between all the gourmet combinations.

The also make a House Ketchup that’s offered next to Heinz.  We got one of each and used all the House Ketchup.  You cannot tell the difference by looking at them, but Burger Parlor’s House Ketchup tastes like it’s meant to go with the Onion Rings.  There’s something special there.

The Burger Parlor knows how to make things right — Their wall instructions impressed us (below).

We highly recommend the Burger Parlor and their Onion Rings — To me, they kind of taste like Shrimp Tempura, especially with the House Ketchup.  The duo is on my favorite’s list.

The Burger Parlor is a favorite of many and has the awards to prove it.  We’ll be back.

I’ve only heard good things about Porto’s Bakery & Cafe, so I was excited that they opened up one in Buena Park, off Beach Boulevard down the street from Knott’s Berry Farm.  It just opened last month. We attempted to go there a couple times, but the line wrapped around the building.

We finally went there recently and only had to wait in line for 15 minutes.

A large, beautiful space with indoor and outdoor seating was constructed for Porto’s in Buena Park.

On this day (and perhaps always), there were secondary lines.  Once inside, we were directed to one of two other lines to order food.  Each area included glass cases displaying gorgeous desserts and savory items — Cakes, Cookies, various Pastries, Croquettes, Empanadas, and much more.

I asked for (at least) one of each of the House Specialties listed below.

Though I ordered one of each of the House Specialties, I only ended up with most of them — One of each from the case below, except the Rellenito, because they were out of them.  Now we have to go back for the rest, plus more, which is fine without a line.  Matt (pictured at top) leaving with our sweet and savory boxes — A great moment.  We were eager to get home to try it all.

Our savory box below included a Ham Croquette, Cheese/Pepper Potato Ball, a Chicken Empanada, a Chorizo Pie, a Seafood Potato Ball, two Meat Pies, and two Potato Balls, because it is one of Porto’s specialties — Potato Balls filled with ground Beef and Peppers.  We each had to have our own.

We shared it all — And the Potato Ball was our favorite too.  The meat inside it is so well seasoned.

We also shared a Guava Strudel, Raspberry Kiss Cookie, Cherry Turnover and Mango Empanada.

I loved the Raspberry Kiss Cookie — It’s not the most dazzling dessert there, but it is tasty.

Porto’s closes at 7 p.m., but allows those in line at that time into the building to order.

Porto’s prices are pretty good too — There’s much more we want to try there.

We love Chili’s Skillet Queso and Chips on Chili’s Appetizer Menu.  And now I can make it perfectly at home.  Well, we think so — That’s six of us here who have tried it several times.  I searched the internet for a good copycat recipe and found five.  Enlarge photo above to view them. I took all into consideration to subsequently create my own, slightly different than the other’s variations, based on what I know about its actual flavor and texture.  My Chili’s Skillet Queso copycat recipe is posted below.  For the Dip only.  Chili’s Chips are too good to copy.

To make Chili’s ‘Skillet’ Queso Dip as easy as possible, I combine all ingredients in a small crock pot and occasionally stir — Technically this recipe should be called… Shelly’s Crock Pot Queso Wannabe Chili’s Skillet Queso, which is a long, dumb sounding name, but that’s what it is and how it tastes.

However, for the authentic Chili’s Skillet Queso and Chips experience, I serve the Queso in the small skillet below and pick-up Chili’s Chips to go, since I cannot re-create their thin, delicately crispy texture.  I’ve previously posted about Chili’s amazing Chips and Skillet Queso Dip here.

Shelly’s Crock Pot Queso Dip Recipe — A Copycat of Chili’s Skillet Queso Dip

Ingredients:

16 ounces of Velveeta Cheese (Chopped into small chunks)

(1) 15 ounce Can of Spicy Hormel No-Bean Chili (Or non-spicy version or other non-verified brand)

1 1/4 Cups of Milk

(1) Tbsp. Chili Powder

(1) Tbsp. Cumin Powder

(2) Tsps. Paprika Powder

(1) Tbsp. Lime Juice

(1/4) Tsp. Cayenne Powder (optional)

Salt to taste

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a small crock pot and stir occasionally until evenly melted.  Serve the Queso Dip from the crock pot or transfer to a small skillet or bowl.  If you don’t have a small crock pot, combine all ingredients in a small sauce pan and cook on low stirring occasionally.

FYI:  After this process, I now realize that Chili’s Skillet Queso is most likely not prepared in the small skillet it’s served in, ha — Chili’s may need to clarify ‘Skillet’ too.

It was really love at first sight and bite at Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern (JFAT).

First, I love Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern’s MENU and pretty much want to try everything listed.  I reviewed their menu online before visiting this JFAT in Brea — It’s one of five JFAT locations. The others are in Dana Point, San Diego, Woodland Hills and Santa Monica.

Before tasting anything, we appreciated JFAT’s exterior entrance lights, outdoor patio and courtyard view, and its dimly lit, stylish America-inspired interior.  God Bless America indeed.

My first bite came from the Pimento Cheese Dip in JFAT’s Dueling Southern Dips.  It’s served with a Roasted Corn & Poblano Guacamole and Tortilla Chips — And wow.  We were happy with the amount of flavor in both Dips.  Every dish we shared had an amazing amount of flavor.

It was love at first bite in conjunction with its appealing sight — Pictured from top down is JFAT’s Signature Grilled Santa Fe Caesar Salad with Fried Chicken, the Dueling Southern Dips, the Whisky Shrimp, and BBQ Spice Crusted Salmon with Creamed Corn, Green Beans, Bacon and Crispy Onions.  Each dish was seasoned, grilled and prepared well.  Nothing is bland at JFAT.

I’m pictured below with Chef Kim.  He is so nice and worked hard to make our plates great.  Good people work at JFAT.  We also thank Manager Todd Cords for his superior hospitality.  When we have time, there is much more to go back for — The FOOD, cocktails, atmosphere and friendliness.

I’ve highlighted, at least, ten dishes I want to try — They include JFAT’s Boneless Short Rib Stroganoff, White Truffle Mac and Five Cheese, Charred Brussels Sprouts, Santa Fe Honey-Poblano Pesto Grilled Flatbread, etc.  Enlarge menu below or see link here to view food and drink options.

My favorite JFAT Cocktail was the Cucumber Cooler.  It’s made with Finlandia Vodka, St. Germain, Fresh Cucumber and Lemon Juice.  See Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern’s full list of “Liquid” items here.  JFAT says get in here and we want to get back there.  ASAP.

I’m thankful for this guy — My back-up better photographer, husband and best friend.  Cheers to him.  He’s a trooper.  And he’s fun, funny and smart.  Now enough about him.  We’re moving on to 2017 and more FOOD related reports from Nibbles of Tidbits.  Happy New Year to you from us.

Big things will be happening here next year and we’re excited.

In 2017, Nibbles of Tidbits will feature more home cooking, restaurants reviews, product, ingredient and recipe testing, food competitions and culinary events — It’s ‘more of everything’ if it involves food.  And in conjunction with all that, we’re remodeling the kitchen from its current 1970’s style (rarely seen here) to a modern food blog-worthy kitchen.  We’ll show its transition here.  Until then, upcoming reports pertain to Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern in Brea, Chili’s Skillet Queso Dip and Food Dehydration.  I received a food dehydrator for Christmas.  Reports coming soon to this blog near you.

Photos:  At Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern in Brea.  Report will follow.

It’s the Dirty Sauce that makes Ike’s Love & Sandwiches so darn great (and the Dutch Crunch Bread).  Ike’s Dirty Sauce is on every Sandwich, unless specified otherwise.  This time I ordered it on the side to decipher its ingredients.  It’s one of the things I like to do.  Breakdown a recipe.  And from what I can taste, see and smell, it appears to possibly be made with Mayonnaise, Butter, Garlic, Cayenne Pepper, a few fresh and/or dried Herbs, Salt and maybe other Spices — Not the precise breakdown I hoped for.  It’s more complex than I thought it would be, though I should have known that by its elevated flavor.  That’s why it’s so good and why it’s on most Sandwiches.  Boom.

Dirty Sauce — It sounds weird, but don’t be afraid of its name.  Get it on your Sandwich.

Seemingly free or not, there were times that I just couldn’t eat it — I didn’t want to use Knott’s Berry Farm’s All Season Dining Plan, though I had already paid for it.  Sometimes because the food just didn’t sound good, and other times because I didn’t want to wait in a long line to be greeted by a Knott’s employee with no sense of urgency.  They get paid no matter how many meals are served.

 

D’Vine Restaurant in Fullerton — Somehow it feels hidden, though it’s within plain sight in the heart of downtown Fullerton, an area hosting some of the best restaurants in Fullerton.

It has been open a few months and I’m glad to finally try it.

D’Vine is a gem and its Master Chef Owner, Walid Alarja is a Star.  His food is truly authentic, fresh and flavorful — Love of food, cooking, and years of worldly experience are behind each and every ingredient and dish.  An authentic Mediterranean experience is created, as the D’Vine sign says.

Pita Chips, Olive Oil and a Spice mixture of Thyme, Sumac, Sesame Seeds, Salt (and maybe more) are served upon arrival — I like that.  All is house-made, dried, baked, mixed, toasted, etc.

First Dip the Pita Chip into the Olive Oil and then in D’Vine’s Special Spice Mixture.

This is D’Vine’s second location.  The other one is in Brea — It’s been open for about five years.

I had Arak on the Rocks with Water (above right) — Arak is a traditional drink in the Middle East. We tried it and a Mediterranean Cooler (above left) and both ultimately wanted the Mediterranean Cooler.  Though I knew Arak to have an Anise flavor, it punched us in the face, ha.  It was a flashback to my Jagermeister college shot days.  Not the best choice to compliment this wonderful meal, but fun to try it.  D’Vine offers several Signature Drinks and a full bar of options.

We also shared the Kefta made with grilled ground Beef and Lamb, finely chopped Onions, Parsley and House Spices, along with their Red Cabbage Salad — All Entrees are served with your choice of (1) one of D’Vine’s Cold Mezza’s (they make and offer 14), Rice and Pita Bread.

We enjoyed D’Vine’s Chicken Shawarma made with grilled, thinly sliced marinated Chicken Thigh Meat, with their Cucumber Yogurt Salad.  Walid even makes his own Yogurt.  He is quite impressive.  We were honored to meet him and taste why we should go back.

It’s very nice inside with a long bar, and tall and short tables.

There’s a sometimes smoking area (above) that leads out to a large outdoor patio.

And there is a beautiful room (above) for events of all kinds.  It could be a perfect venue for a wedding reception with < 120 people.  It’s attractive and serves great food, which is sometimes hard to find in a venue.  This room makes me want to have a party.  Cheers to all parties there!

And finally, there is Fool (top photo) — Of course I loved it.  Fool is offered under D’Vine’s Hot Mezza’s.  It’s seasoned Fava Beans with Lemon, Garlic, Olive Oil and Jalapenos.  It’s so flavorful and great with Pita Bread.  It’s what I want most again.  I also have much respect for Walid’s Turshi, house-made Pickles, Olives, Beets, Turnips, etc.  All were better than imagined and well flavored.

Note:  Apologies for the date stamp on some photos (above).

I had the best Sandwich I’ve ever had in my whole life — That’s what my employer/attorney/foodie friend Mike said about Ike’s Love & Sandwiches in Newport Beach.  He recently had a couple Sandwiches there and told me that.  I work in the Newport Beach/Irvine area three days a week. And now, after four consecutive work days of Sandwiches from Ike’s Love & Sandwiches, it’s my new obsession.  Mike is right.  Ike’s makes some of the best Sandwiches I’ve ever had too.

Pictured is the Matt Cain Sandwich, made with Roast Beef, Turkey, Salami, Provolone Cheese and Godfather Sauce, whatever that is.  I don’t know what it is, but it’s sure tasty.  The photo does not do it justice.  Ike’s Sandwiches are named after famous people, different things, and some have quirky names like… Name of the Girl I’m Dating.  Thus far I’ve tried the Jim Rome, The Little Mermaid, Steve Jobs and Matt Cain, and all could contend for the best Sandwich ever.

It’s true — Each Sandwich is loaded with flavor.

So far, the Jim Rome is my favorite — It’s made with Turkey, Avocado, Cheddar Cheese, and Ike’s Red Pesto Sauce, made from Sun Dried Tomatoes, I think.  Simple ingredients, but so dang good.

It’s busy at Ike’s Love & Sandwiches in Newport Beach so we call in our Sandwiches, pick them up fairly quickly and eat ’em in our office conference room.  It’s an efficient method that’ll be in play again next week.  My sights are set on Adam Richman, a Sandwich made with Fried Chicken, Ham, Honey, Pesto, Avocado and Swiss.  We’ve had all on Ike’s World Famous Dutch Crunch Bread.

Better photos of our next amazing Sandwiches will soon be posted.

Example of Ike’s Dutch Crunch Bread unwrapped (above).

I’ve now had so many Sandwiches I don’t know which one is posted above, but I know I loved it.

IHOP® RESTAURANTS THANK VETERANS AND ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY
ON VETERANS DAY WITH FREE RED, WHITE & BLUE PANCAKES

Servicemen and Women are Invited to Savor Time with Family and Friends Over a Made-to-Order Breakfast at IHOP on November 11, 2016 — Including a Free Pancake Offer From 7 AM – 7 PM

WHAT:

On Friday, November 11th, Veterans and Active Duty Military can enjoy three of IHOP restaurant’s hot-off-the-griddle, world famous Buttermilk Pancakes with glazed strawberries, blueberry compote and whipped topping for free at participating U.S. locations, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., as part of the Red, White & Blue Pancake promotion for retired and active duty military personnel.

WHERE:

Participating IHOP Restaurants in the United States.

WHY:

For close to six decades, IHOP has been the leader in bringing guests a freshly made breakfast served any time of day, every day, as well as unique, made-to-order limited time menu items. IHOP is proud to honor veterans and active duty military this holiday.

WHEN:

FRIDAY, November 11, 2016, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Photo Credit:  The pictured Cake is unrelated to the Pancakes being served at IHOP — The Cake recipe is linked here if you want to make it for someone special this Veterans’ Day.

And IHOP is just one of many appreciative businesses offering deals to deserving American Veterans on Veterans’ Day.  That’s nice of IHOP and others.  Additional offerings to Veterans are linked here. I’m grateful for the service of each and every serviceman and woman and thank all so very much.