Nibbles of Tidbits, a Food Blog

The Orange County Fair is happening NOW through August 16, 2015 — We’ll soon be there to taste some of the new FOOD items they’re serving up this year.  The BIG LIST is here: List of New and Interesting Food at the 2015 OC Fair.  Pictured is the Samoa Donut, a jumbo Donut designed after the popular Girl Scout Cookie, the Samoa aka Caramel DeLite, my favorite, made with Chocolate, Caramel and Coconut shavings.  We may have to try it.  We LOVE the OC Fair!

Credit:  Thank you to the OC Fair Communication’s Department for the photo and list.

SOCO Sushi & Gastro Pub — It opened a few weeks ago.  It’s SOuth of COmmonwealth (hence the name) in the cool, fun part of downtown Fullerton, amongst other bars, restaurants and shops.

It’s a Sushi Bar and Gastro Pub all sushi-rolled into one — I like the variety they offer.

We had the Fiery Rice Bombs (above) and Melts My Heart Quesadilla (below).

Most appreciated is SOCO Sushi & Gastro Pub’s hospitality — Everyone is welcoming and friendly.

And we thoroughly enjoyed the cooked, meaty Yellowtail Cheeks (above), after having different parts of Hamachi (top)  — We mustn’t discard the cheeks of Matt’s next Yellowtail catch.

It’s nicely styled inside to accommodate small and large groups.

One can dine and drink at SOCO’s Sushi Bar or at their Gastro Pub Bar — That option is matchless.

You can reserve a private room if needed.

Albacore on Acid (above) is another one of SOCO Sushi & Gastro Pub’s unique creations — Menu items are differently and comically named, adding to the fun there.  Much sounds great to try.

It’s said to be the place to start your night — I’d agree with that and from what we experienced and sense, it could be the place you’ll want to end your night also.  It’s positively distinctive and offers food dishes and drinks to please all.  Say “Hi” to Davis Jeong, Executive Sushi Chef.  He and all care about your satisfaction.  Check out their MENU for more info re the pictured items and others.

It looks different than most I’ve had, but the pictured Huevos Rancheros at the Golden Ox Restaurant in Fullerton is one of my favorites for breakfast, lunch or dinner, which is served all day.

As a bonus, it comes with Bacon, Beans, Rice, Hash Browns, Tortillas on the side, and Salsa.

It’s not a fancy place as you can see, but they do a great job there.  The Huevos Rancheros is consistently good, even when had three times in a week.  I’m hooked.  And now my husband is too, which helps get me there more often, yay.  It’s off Commonwealth where North Brookhurst ends.

Dine in or drive through — Inside food is served on plastic plates.  It’s a little fancier than fast food.

The Sauce on the Huevos Rancheros is excellent.  It has a long, home cooked flavor and we love it.

Also, I’ve never been a Hash Browns fan, but I’m a big fan of theirs.  I look forward to having them almost as much as the Huevos.  And it shouldn’t go unmentioned that the Bacon is always extra crispy, and the Beans and Rice are above average too.  All make up a masterpiece at the Golden Ox.

We shall have it again soon, I’m sure.

It’s food from El Amerikano American & Latin Kitchen in downtown Fullerton and I already have a favorite — Everything I’ve had so far, especially the Warm Mushroom Salad and Mole Eggplant.

El Amerikano is part of the Kentro Hospitality Group, a group offering tasteful restaurants (including Kentro Greek Kitchen, steps away from El Amerikano), event planning and catering options.

We were recently invited to a media tasting at El Amerikano and tried all pictured dishes.

From top down — Al Pastor Chop, Cucumber Ceviche Salad, Brussels Sprouts, Mole Eggplant, Asada Bravo and Warm Mushroom Salad, I think.  See El Amerikano’s MENU for the enticing descriptions.

I was happy to learn they also have an outdoor patio, something I look for in a restaurant.

Each dish seems to have a double-digit list of ingredients and an abundance of flavor.

I like El Amerikano’s ‘To Share’ dishes and prices, which range from $3 – $9.

As I write this and read their MENU, I’m planning my next meal there asap.

This taste of El Amerikano American & Latin Kitchen left me needing to have more.

I have sights on the Chorizo Sliders, Mac ‘n Queso, Michoacan Caesar and more.

El Amerikano’s Michoacan Caesar Salad has Char-Grilled Romaine, which I love when done right.

A cooking demonstration showed the care and time put into preparing their dishes.

Food is ordered at the counter, then delivered to you — They offer Beer and Wine too.

Entrance to El Amerikano (below) with Kentro Greek Kitchen nearby — Great food in Fullerton.

Enlarge MENU (below) for a better view or access their menu link here.

Me with Vasili Kotsiovos, El Amerikano and Kentro Greek Kitchen’s should be proud Owner.

Thank you — We’ll be back.

Jury Duty is always fun — Not, though I did appreciate the hour-and-a-half lunch and not having been impaneled this year.  It wasn’t so bad under those circumstances, especially with a multitude of above-average food options within walking distance.  I wanted to eat at several.  The Jury Room at Orange County Superior Court’s Central Justice Center in Santa Ana provided a map and list of restaurants to help all get to a tasty meal and back to the courthouse again.  It was very helpful.

The website associated with the Restaurant Guide and Downtown Santa Ana Map is linked here.

It was hard to choose just one restaurant — I almost wanted more Jury Duty, but instead will go back with the map and list on my own time.  During my one-day duty, I opted to eat at Chapter One: The Modern Local.  I had previously seen and liked several items on their menu and still wonder why I chose the Organic OC Vegetable Basket.  I love roasted vegetables, but the pictured weren’t roasted nearly enough.  They were pretty, but all were too hard and seemingly raw.  I had to take them home and cook ’em more, though I didn’t want to bring leftovers back to the jury room.  I’d order something different next time, as much there sounds appetizing.

 Eat Downtown Santa Ana — I value the provided information.  It makes nearby Jury Duty better.

Have you had the Sticky Toffee Pudding at The Olde Ship British Pub & Restaurant?  It’s one of the BEST Desserts I’ve had in my life and it’s perfectly served in warm Heavy Cream.

I’ve had it three times and still can’t stop thinking about going back for it again.  I suggest going to The Olde Ship each time we’ve dined out recently, but my husband needs more food variety.  It’s a rich dessert that’s best shared, so not to be put over the Sugar edge.  The unsweetened Heavy Cream balances the sweetness beautifully.  I love The Olde Ship for this dessert, other authentic British dishes and its cozy atmosphere, especially during Christmas time.

I searched for The Olde Ship’s Sticky Toffee Pudding recipe online, but didn’t find it, I’m told it’s made with Dried Apricots and other things.  I may attempt a copycat recipe after a little more study.  I visited The British Grocer, a store run by the same people at The Olde Ship in Fullerton and Santa Ana.  The British Grocer is in Fullerton, down the street from The Olde Ship British Pub & Restaurant on North Harbor Boulevard.  I’ve yet to visit its Santa Ana location, but hear it’s larger.

Pictured directly above is a prepared, canned Sticky Toffee Pudding I purchased from The British Grocer.  I was told by a clerk there that’s its flavor is most like the one made at The Olde Ship. The store offered two options, one that’s frozen and this one that was canned.

Surprisingly this one is made by Heinz and it does have a similar, rich flavor that’s good served with warm Heavy Cream, though it has a different, more Bread Pudding like texture, rather than a loose, Bran Muffin texture like the Sticky Toffee Pudding prepared at The Olde Ship.  I’ll buy more of both.

I served the Heinz Sticky Toffee Pudding the same way, which made it taste great.

It’s romantic and beautiful inside the Pub, with hundreds of lights in December.

Pictured below is the Great British Breakfast that’s served with a Banger, Baked Beans, Irish Bacon, a Tomato, Mushrooms and Fried Toast.  At first glance, the Toast looks basic, but it’s fried. I thought I’d like that more than I did, but toasted is better.  I like the Baked Beans a lot.

The Olde Ship’s Famous Clam Chowder is very good too, with lots of Clams.

Back to why this post started… The magnificent Sticky Toffee Pudding at The Old Ship (below).

Until we meet again, aka when my husband is ready to go back — I have to be reasonable.

Creamistry Ice Cream — Because Liquid Nitrogen is so cold, it causes the Milk particles to stay very small creating an ultra-smooth creamy texture, Creamistry reports, and after having it, I think it’s the creamiest Ice Cream I’ve ever had.  It is CREEEE-MEE!  Creamistry Ice cream is made using Liquid Nitrogen while you watch and wait.  Fresh ingredients are frozen fast.

Chosen ingredients are frozen at 321 degrees turning all into a creamy goodness.

Choose your SIZE, pick your BASE, and then choose your FLAVOR and TOPPINGS.

I chose the PREMIUM BASE, Strawberry flavor with Roasted Almonds for a topping.

The Liquid Nitrogen fogs up the place like dry ice — It’s fun to watch, though a little hard to see.

I met a family in line who traveled from San Clemente to Irvine just to get Ice Cream here.

I liked it more than I expected and now find myself craving its creamy texture and want to try other flavors.  Creamistry offers a multitude of flavors and toppings creating a slight dilemma when choosing.  I must go back to try more.  It can take some time getting through the line when it’s long and it’s not cheap, but a little goes a long way.  It’s ultra-rich, creamy and good.

I wanted to ask more questions about the process and see all clearly from start to finish, but it was a busy day at Creamistry in Irvine.  It’s already loved by others, I’ve seen and heard, and now I like it too.  It’s not just another Ice Cream.  It’s fun to experience and different to taste.

His name is Leon (above) and he just turned 8 — We celebrated him and his birthday at the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar at Cerritos Mall.  It’s an ideal place for a Dog’s Birthday or any day, since dogs are allowed on their patio and served a complimentary Bowl of Water.

It’s a good place for adults too, though it was Leon’s day, but we pay. 😉

We tried the Sangria Sampler — The White Peach Sangria (middle) was my favorite.

The Lazy Dog Hand Crafted Drafts Sampler hits the human spot too.

Leon chose the Grilled Chicken Breast and Brown Rice from the Dog Menu.

He ate all quickly, much how he eats everything, and appeared to like it.

We had the Brick Oven Spinach & Sundried Tomato Cheese Dip (below), which could use more Spinach and Sun Dried Tomatoes, but the Cheese combination is good.

And the Chipotle Chicken Quesadilla — Overall, Lazy Dog’s food is consistently good.

Afterwards we went for a walk along Dog Beach in Huntington Beach.

It’s a true dog day afternoon at the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar and Dog Beach.

There’s a Dog Friendly Patio at the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar — Enlarge photo to read their Patio Rules and don’t be shy, bring your dog with you, especially if it’s his or her birthday.

I’ve had a lot of great Brussels Sprouts lately, but DANG — The Brussels Sprouts glazed with Honey and Sriracha at the Egg Cracker Restaurant in Fullerton are the BEST.  They’re perfectly crispy on the outside, sweet and hot, and each is tender enough to eat, which is very important.  If any are still too hard to eat, it’s often bitter and inedible though served.  Twice we’ve had the Brussels Sprouts at the Egg Cracker and each little Sprout was cooked to perfection, which is specifically important we learned from one of the owners.

Not only do they have the Best Brussels Sprouts, but the Egg Cracker Restaurant has one of the best-priced, high-quality, convenient-time Happy Hours — It’s from 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm, so you don’t need to speed after work to get there.  You order off a menu too and the price for the quality is fantastic.  The Brussels Sprouts are $3 during Happy Hour and $5 regularly.

Current Happy Hour Food Menu (above) and Chilaquiles (below).

We also tried the Portobello Fries (below), which are sliced Portobello Mushrooms with a Panko Breading to form Fries — They’re meaty and crunchy and good with the Sauce.

Zucchini Bread (below) is served to all, with all, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner — I think.

We had breakfast at the Egg Cracker twice before and received it then also.

For Dessert we had one of the Egg Cracker’s most popular Breakfast items, the Campfire Pancakes with Chocolate, Graham Cracker Crumbles and Homemade Marshmallow Cream.  I just love the Egg Cracker’s MENU.  There are many things I want to try — Breakfast is served all day too.  And it should be mentioned that Beer & Wine is only $3 during Happy Hour.

We’re going back for more of everything (and much we have yet to try).

What are the best foods to eat at Disneyland, I asked my semi-smart phone.  We were going to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure and wanted something different than an average Burger and Fries.  I hadn’t been to either park in 10 years.  After reviewing the search results, I chose two food dishes that were included on several lists — One at Disneyland and the other at Disney California Adventure, two places I’ve never known and probably wouldn’t have found.  Each sounded appealing.  We started with the Carthay Signature Fried Biscuits with Apricot Honey Butter at Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure.

Carthay Circle Restaurant is fancier than expected, but we sought to have the best food at Disneyland.  We went there to try the Carthay Signature Fried Biscuits that are described as amazing and to-die-for.  Stuffed with White Cheddar, Bacon and Jalapenos they sound good.

They don’t look like much on the outside, then surprise with a gooey middle.  With the Apricot Honey Butter, it’s interesting and different — I like its concentrated flavor and it’s not bad on the Biscuits, but we really didn’t fall in love with them.  They’re good, not great and expensive for its small size and amount.  Several Starters looked better to us and more filling.

My husband set out to photo bomb Goofy, but wasn’t obvious enough — At Disneyland.

Across the square from Disney California Adventure, we sought to have the Lobster Roll at the Harbour Galley Restaurant in Critter Country at Disneyland.  It too appears to be a Disneyland favorite.  It’s less fancy than Carthay Circle with only a few takeout windows.

I wasn’t able to take a good photo of the Lobster Roll, but the Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl looked, tasted and photographed well.  It too is well-liked by bloggers and papers.

The Lobster Roll was great, with a good amount of Lobster and nice lemony flavor.

We’d have the Lobster Roll again for $14.99, but not the Carthay Signature Fried Biscuits for $12.00.  Next visit we’ll try other Disneyland favorites discovered on my phone.  Thank you!

Have you been to Calivino Wine Pub?  It’s in Anaheim, near the Honda Center, Angel Stadium of Anaheim and other happenings, off Katella Avenue. We just learned about it and gladly so, since the food is terrific. We’ve been to other Wine Bar/Pubs that serve great food, like Sealegs and The Twisted Wine, so the test-bar is high, but Calivino unexpectedly stood out.

Calivino Wine Pub is a bit hard to see off Katella.  Its cross-street is Howell — Just turn into the business park area, keep heading left and you’ll see it slivered-in, amongst other businesses and eateries.  Hooters is across the parking lot to drop off the boys on a Girl’s Wine Night out.

Seating includes a long bar and a good combination of couches and tall and short tables.

It’s rare when everything on a menu sounds appealing, well not that rare, but I do want all on Calivino’s Menu.  Since we weren’t sure where to begin, we tried a few house favorites.

FOOD pictured from top down:  The House Burger with Fried Onions, Onion Jam and Havarti, which is sweet, spicy and juicy – Bacon Dates with Goat Cheese and Honey – Spinach Wontons with Parmesan and Garlic – Brussels Sprouts roasted with Crispy Pork.

I’d have all again and the Spinach Wontons (above) every day — You certainly can’t tell how great they are from the dark photo, but WOW, they’re a perfectly seasoned combo of Baby Leaf Spinach and crunch.  Each Wonton tastes like the best Spinach Dip already on a chip.

Oh yeah, Wine.  It’s a Wine Pub after all — I like Wine too.

The Reds, Whites, Sweets & Sparkling — Calivino’s owner, Daniel hand selects them all.

And there’s Beer too — A rotating selection of fine, local brews are noted on a chalkboard.

Calivino — Cali for California and Vino for Wine.  We like it and the CA Flag Bear on the logo.

It’s a nice mix of old world and new world and it feels that way.

We tried REDS from California and Spain — Leaping Horse Cabernet (2013), Beso De Vino Garnacha (2011), Reserva Eguia Tempranillo (2009) and Artezin Red Zinfandel (2012).

We liked sipping Wine on the couch and the rustic tables with bottled water and succulents.

I’m heading back soon with a group of girls for more bites and Tempranillo.

Calivino Wine Pub — A great stop before or after an event, for Happy Hour (3-7pm, Sun – Fri), 1/2 Price Bottles of Wine on Wednesdays, and 1/2 off Glasses of Wine on Thursdays.  See their website for more info and/or changes.  New food dishes will be added below.

Updated 10/21/14: Next visit we had more of the same, which was equally as good, and Alison’s Baked Brie in a Puff Pastry with Candied Nuts and Honey (above).

We can walk or bike to Totally 80’s Bar & Grille in Fullerton — It’s a relatively new Bar, Restaurant, Dance Club & Karaoke Bar in the neighborhood.  It occupies the space of a former Mexican Restaurant, Bar & Event spot.  There’s little change to its exterior other than the somewhat cheesy sign (sorry).  Its theme caught our attention and made it a must stop.

I love 80’s music and inside it’s a whole new retro world — We’re impressed!

It’s well decorated and fun throughout.  We’re unsure about the “Grille” part of Totally 80’s Bar & Grille, as we only tried the ‘Totally Awesome Tots’, which appear to be popular.  We tried two of the three offered — The Chili Cheese Tots and Nacho Cheese Tots.  The third, Tots Poutine includes Gravy and an Egg.  Good combinations.  The Tater Tots were crisp, but a bit expensive ($10), if not from their Late Night Menu ($6) — We’ll try the Tots Poutine then.

Robert Smith (above) of one of my favorite bands, The Cure — We’re definitely going back to try and photograph more.  Actual 80’s bands, real and cover play here too.  We’re monitoring their events schedule.  Welcome to the hood Totally 80’s Bar & Grille.  Great to see you!

Related — That 80’s Bar in Montclair and New Wave Restaurant in Lakewood.

It’s Peter Dills in the photo with me.  He’s the son of a man I admired, Elmer Dills, a good man and former long-time Restaurant Reviewer, etc. on KABC.  Elmer passed away in 2008, but his son, Peter carries on his niceness and love of food.  As far back as he can remember, Peter was following Elmer from restaurant to restaurant — That’s some fabulous training!

Did you know that Peter Dills has a radio show on Sundays on AM 830 KLAA Angels Radio?  It’s called Dining with Dills and starts at 11:00a.m.  Give it a listen.  We went to The Catch restaurant in Anaheim this day to celebrate Dining with Dills, and eat and drink of course.

The Catch kitchen (above) — I like its open look.  Can’t hide anything here.

It’s a large restaurant with dining all around — Above is just one stylish sliver of it.

Though blurred, I like the photo above — Delicious appetizers were served, but hard to obtain if you weren’t immediately adjacent to its introduction.  It was a bit of a frenzy to get them.

I’m not sure if I got to try all the appetizers, but my favorite was a Fish Cake Lolli-Pop of some sort (not pictured) that I don’t currently see on their online menu — It was a round, crunchy fish cake served on a stick.  It had a great flavor and perfect texture.  I wanted more.

We over took the back room of The Catch, which lead out to a fenced in, outdoor patio.

Me with Patty Mitchell, the Executive Producer at Peter Dills, TV Show, etc.  She’s sweet too!

The Bar at The Catch (above) — We need to spend time in here next visit.

The Catch is across the street from many events at the City National Grove of Anaheim.

First, we LOVE Tortilla Republic’s location, location, location.  It’s in Laguna Beach off PCH with an outdoor patio view of the ocean.  We recently sampled a few items from its Brunch Menu.

Though it’s often hard to park in the heart of Laguna Beach, there’s a small parking structure directly behind Tortilla Republic.  It’s best to park there, as there were spaces available.

Tortilla Republic’s Brunch Menu is impressive — Several items are pictured here.

I highly recommend the Salsa Trio and Guacamole sides (above).  All three Salsas were different and flavorful, and the Guacamole was fresh, dense and excellent tasting.

My photos don’t do it justice — It’s a cool looking, nautical-ish, dark and light, stylish place.

The front is completely open to allow most inside to view the ocean across the street.

They have a Brunch, Lunch, Afternoon and Dinner Menu and/or Bar for just a drink.

I’m not sure, but believe the above is a Hibiscus Margarita — They offer many unique drinks.

Pictured from top down, we tried Tortilla Republic’s Huevos Rancheros, Fresh Corn & Blueberry Pancakes, aforementioned Salsa Trio and Guacamole, and Egg White Omelete.

Carnitas Tacos (above) — See Tortilla Republic’s Menus for additional descriptions of all.

Pescado a la Parrilla aka Seared Albacore Tuna Taco (above).

Chilaquiles (above).

Machaca Burrito (above).

Mole Enchiladas (above).

Black Beans & Mexican Rice, a side option.

Seared Albacore Tuna & Sweet Potato Hash, served with two Poached Eggs (above).

At Tortilla Republic Restaurant in Laguna Beach — View from inside looking out.

Hallway in and out — It’s hard to see, but it’s the sea, past the nice cars out front.

Cheers to Tortilla Republic with their Prickly Pear Bellini!

I’ve loved Bistango Restaurant for years, its Bar, and paintings throughout its walls, and now there’s Bistango Gardens, a relaxing oasis in the heart of the Irvine business district.

We recently enjoyed a sampling of Bistango Gardens‘ Terrace Menu designed for sharing.

CHEERS to outdoor patio dining near a fountain with great Wine — We seek that out.

The Souvlaki Greek Marinated Beef Kabobs (above) were nicely tender and flavorful.

They offer several tasty Small Plates, a few are pictured.  Some photos are from Bistango.

See linked MENU for plate specifics.

We tried all the items listed below, savored each bite and left wanting more.

We especially liked Bistango Gardens‘ Lamb Sliders with Brandied Balsamic Cherries, Goat Cheese and Arugula on a Brioche Bun (pictured at top).  The flavor combination was perfect.

Chili Marinated Shrimp (below) — See Bistango’s Menus to learn more about all.

The best part of this report is that… I will most likely be moving into the building across the street from Bistango, its Gardens and all of this, at the beginning of January 2015.  My other career, Paralegal, takes me there.  I was very happy to see all within walking distance from a high story window view in the center of great things.  I’m looking forward to more.  Thanks!

I appreciate Bistango’s exemplar hospitality over twenty-plus years.

The real brothers of Fresh Brothers Pizza-Salad-Wings are pictured above at the opening of a new Fresh Brothers in Newport Beach.  It’s their first in Orange County.  I’m not saying they’re fresh, but their Pizza is.  And they really are brothers, but their last name isn’t actually Fresh.

Their Pizza is good, but I fell for the Fresh Knots aka Garlic Bread tied in a knot and dusted with Parmesan Cheese, served with Pizza Sauce on the side.  I’d make a meal of it.

Their Pizza liked me too — Thumbs up to much success.

Samples of most items were offered to media invitees and passers by this day — Thanks Bro’s!

Fresh Brother’s Wings are baked and never fried — They offer 6 different kinds.

Meatball Sliders served on Kings Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are available too.

What do you see below?  Not Chicken Tenders.

They’re Vegan Tenders that seem like Chicken and they’re pretty good too.

One of my plates (above) — All was enjoyable.

Fresh Knots reiterated (above) — Yum.

They also offer Make-Your-Own-Pizza-Party packages for kids — A fun idea.

Have you ever been to The Hobbit?  It’s a restaurant and unique dining experience in Orange that has nothing to do with the novel, movie or Hobbit character, whew — At least I didn’t see any visual cues of it, though didn’t ask the origin of its name.  Regardless, it’s simply a great place to possibly have the best meal of your life, if you have a few hours to spare.

After years of hoping to dine at The Hobbit, my husband took me for my birthday, another reason why I married him this year.  Dining here could be an annual occasion, he may be afraid to learn, as it’s not inexpensive, but worth the time and money — It’s a good value, I think.

We’ve arrived — Who and what’s behind the door?  Looks like a speakeasy slot, I like it.

We started with a Glass of Wine and seat in the Bar (above) — The Hobbit experience starts with an optional drink in the Bar, or in one of the other sitting areas inside or outside.

After orientation of the Bar and various rooms within an old converted house, all head downstairs to the Wine Cellar for Champagne & Hors d’ Oeuvres (included in a fixed price).

You may eat and enjoy as many Hors d’ Oeuvres and drink as much Champagne as you like.

The photos don’t do all justice – Each Hors d’ Oeuvre was exceptional, delicious and top notch.

Busy trying everything while I could (about ten dishes over and over again), I didn’t take notes — Amongst other dishes, they offered a smooth Liver Pâté, Steak Tartare, Beef Saté, Caviar, etc.  I’m personally not a big Caviar fan, but appreciate their generosity.

I loved The Hobbit’s Steak Tartare — It was perfectly chilled and fresh.

If you like, while in the Wine Cellar, select a bottle of Wine to have with dinner.

The experience continues upstairs, from the Wine Cellar at a privately assigned table.

It’s romantic too.

Even the Bread Roll was extra special, with a lot Herbs.

The Hobbit meals come with an ever-changing menu/program, with intermission and all.

Your menu will most likely be different, but ours included Seared Loin of Lamb with Organic Red Quinoa and a Tart Cherry Reduction (top photo), Butter Lettuce with Roquefort Dressing and Port Poached Pear (directly above), and Wild Mushroom Stuffed Filet Mignon (below).

Almond Cake, Apricot Ice Cream and a Chocolate Mascarpone Mousse (below).

Enlarge photo with menu (above) to view descriptions of all dishes.

During intermission that’s followed by Sorbet and the main entrée, we visited the kitchen and enjoyed our Wine on the outdoor patio, while hoping to make room for more food.

We toast to the Chefs and owners of The Hobbit — We LOVED our meal and time there.

Make another reservation for me, PLEASE!

We love to build our ideal Pizza for a fair fixed price and can now do it at Blaze Pizza.

Tell them exactly what you want on your Pizza and they’ll make and blaze it for you.

Pick a Sauce, Cheese, Meat and/or Vegetables, or mix a few, several, or all if you like.

Blaze Pizza offers Kalamata Olives, Pineapple, Roasted Garlic and Red Bell Peppers, sautéed Onions, Jalapenos and Artichoke Hearts, all my favorites, and more than what’s shown here.

Its Thin Crust cooks fast and we realize we like Blaze Pizza slightly better than its local competition, Pieology, which has nothing wrong with it, but Blaze fires ahead in flavor.

One just opened in La Habra and others will be opening soon throughout Southern California.

The Pizza above was made with 1/2 Classic Red Sauce & 1/2 White Cream Sauce, and the other (top) was made with a Spicy Red Sauce and various toppings — We want another.

At Pieology Pizzeria, I can finally get all the Pizza toppings I want without worrying about cost.  I usually limit Pizza toppings to 3 max, otherwise it gets expensive.  Here it makes sense to have more.  For one price — $7.95 — You can have them all if you want.  And it’s fast too.

It’s easy — Just go through the assembly line and tell them what you want.

What kind of Sauce?  What kind of Cheese?  1/2 and 1/2?  Simple?  Complex?

It’s all up to you.  Want more Pepperoni than generally allotted?  You can have it — I like that!

To simplify, you can also choose one of Pieology’s 7 Specialty Pizzas from $6.45 – $7.95.

It’s a nice sized Pizza with a perfectly crisp, thin crust, for one or two people.

A friend of mine works at a movie theater near a Pieology Pizzeria and says many sneak Pieology Pizzas into the theater.  I’m not sure how, but it’s done.  And he says… it’s the most coveted leftover by those cleaning theaters — Some like it so much, they’ll eat a stranger’s last slices if they’re left in the theater.  Yikes!  I surely wouldn’t do that (hahaha), but it goes to show how good it must be, or theater employees need to eat before going to work.

Have you ever tried Ethiopian food?  I hadn’t until recently.  Do you know anything about it?  I just moved to Fullerton near several Ethiopian restaurants.  Curious about them, I researched ‘local Ethiopian food’ to learn which is best.  Since those closest (Tana, Abyssinia & Merhaba) had good reviews on Yelp, I became less clear where to go, thus I tried and compared them all myself, along with my adventurous husband – One Vegetarian Combination Plate at a time, served on Injera, a sourdough-risen flatbread with a slightly spongy texture.

We started our Local Ethiopian Food Tour’ at Tana Ethiopian Restaurant (above) on La Palma Avenue in Anaheim.  It’s located in a small strip mall and doesn’t look like much on the outside, but inside it’s relaxed and smells like something good is cooking.  Don’t be timid to go inside, everyone’s nice — A common theme of all three.  There’s a better world inside each.

We had a Vegetarian Combination Plate at each restaurant — It’s a varied combination of Shiro Wot, Kik Alicha, Gommen, Yemiser Wot, Sinegkarya, Lentil Stew, Potato & Carrot Wot, etc., which generally translates into Cabbage, Spinach, Potatoes, Carrots, Lentils, Split Peas, Green Beans and/or Chard cooked with Onions, Garlic, Ginger, Chili Powder, Turmeric and other spices.  A Wot is a thick stew of different vegetarian and non-vegetarian types.

Inside Tana (above) — Toasting with African Beer.  Beer & Wine is served at all three.

No utensils are provided — You eat with your hands using the Injera.  It appears most meals are served on it and more is provided on the side.  We didn’t take lessons on how to eat.  We just tore-off a piece of Injera, pinched a little Wot and ate it.  It worked well and made us full.

The Injera can be quite filling — Towards the end, I wanted a fork to eat less of it.

Abyssinia Ethiopian Cuisine (below) is the second Ethiopian restaurant we tried in Anaheim, California — It’s located off West Lincoln Avenue and it too is unfancy on the outside and welcoming inside.  Its Vegetarian Combination Plate also offered ten unique dishes.

Both Vegetarian Combination Plates thus far had similar dishes with a Salad.

Except for the Salad, most dishes are served warm, though above had additional cold dishes.

Inside Abyssinia Ethiopian Cuisine (above) — Toasting with Honey Wine & African Beer.

We also tried their Doro Wot aka Doro Wat – A Spicy Chicken Stew made with Chicken Legs and Hard Boiled Eggs.  The Sauce was flavorful and the Chicken was tender, but there wasn’t enough of it — Abyssinia’s Vegetarian Combo was more filling than their Doro Wot.

And finally, we tried Merhaba East African Restaurant (below), last on this tour, but certainly not least.  Consistent with the others, its exterior isn’t pretty, especially sandwiched between an Emergency Walk-In Center and a Thrift Store, but there’s a friendly escape inside.

As shown, Merhaba’s Vegetarian Combination Plate (below) has six dishes and no Salad.  It includes fewer dishes than Tana’s and Abyssinia’s Combos, but we both liked Merhaba’s plate the best.  Each dish had an abundance of flavor.  It’s quality, not quantity at Merhaba.

It’s funny… I was least excited to go to Merhaba, mostly because it has less of a presence online, but it may now be my first pick.  It’s similarly comfortable inside too (below).

Cheers to Merhaba with a different African Beer.

Next time we’ll try their special Coffee (below), which is served after a ceremonial process.

As reported, Tana Ethiopian Restaurant, Abyssinia Ethiopian Cuisine and Merhaba East African Restaurant are indeed good and worth a visit and more.  All should definitely try Ethiopian food.  Contrary to what some think, Ethiopian food is filling and appetizing.

I’ve loved StoneFire Grill for a few years now and always get the same thing — The Lemon Garlic 1/2 Chicken and Gorgonzola Butter Tri Tip.  Both are consistently, absolutely amazing.

I didn’t need anything else, until I recently tried several of StoneFire Grill’s new menu items.  They’re grilling, chopping and serving up much more than I ever realized.  It’s a restaurant for everyone, especially me more often.  Everything they make has an abundance of flavor.

We tried new Sandwiches, Sides and other ‘From The Grill’ specialties I already want again.

StoneFire Grill’s MENU is here.

Photo of my first plate (above) and of one of my new favorite dishes (below) — The Shrimp with Lemon, Olive Oil, Garlic, Chili Flakes and chopped Parsley served with Quinoa.  So tasty!

And their ‘Incredible Carrot Cake’ is indeed incredible and very moist.

Other new favorites are the Whole Roasted Cauliflower (top photo) that’s served warm topped with Lemon Tahini and chopped Parsley — It’s a most impressive Side dish.

And my favorite Sandwich was the Roasted Cauliflower Pita — It’s spicy, different and delicious.  There are currently seven StoneFire Grill locations.  Most photos here were taken a menu tasting in Irvine and the better ones were provided.  While there I learned that it all started with a large, close family and it’s run by friendly, connected people.  They say… Let the fire spread from our kitchen to your heart.  It’s shown through the food and people.

Have you tried Naples Ristorante E Pizzeria in the Downtown Disney District?

If not, you may want to skip it — Not because it’s bad, but because it’s ridiculously priced.

Disney related prices are high indeed and going up, as recently reported.

After watching a Food Network Special on Pizzas, I had been craving a great one — Naples Ristorante E Pizzeria was the first Pizzeria we stumbled on after the show.  It didn’t satisfy, mostly because I have an aversion to being gouged.  Our “Individual” Pizza (pictured) was $19 and the next size up is $32.  We got the Finocchiona Pizza, which is made with Salami, sautéed Onions, Tomato and Mozzarella.  Again, it wasn’t bad, but I know there’s better.

We appreciate taste and value in a Pizza — It makes us happier on earth.

Comida del Oceano — A Limited Edition Seafood Menu currently being offered at El Torito Cantina Authentica in honor of its 60th Anniversary.  They’re having a ‘Year of Celebration’.

Nibbles of Tidbits was invited to try most items on El Torito’s Comida del Oceano Menu.

It was an honor for us, as we respect and appreciate El Torito’s 60 Years of Service — Gracias!

Cheers to that with a Spicy Pepino Margarita and Yerba Buena, described below and here.

My favorite, the Spicy Pepino Margarita is made with Cucumbers, Cilantro and Jalapenos.

Also on the Comida del Oceano Menu, pictured from top down is the Calamari Filet Appetizer (Crispy Calamari Filet Strips served atop Baby Arugula with a Sweet Chili Sauce), which was perfectly crisp and tender, nicely cooked and the best Calamari I’ve had in a long time.

Enchiladas de Mariscos filled with Shrimp, Crab and Three Cheeses.

The Enchiladas are served atop tasty sautéed vegetables, as shown above and in first photo.

Tacos de Camarones, served in Guajillo basted Tortillas — We loved that about them.

The Salmon Polanco-Style is a work of art and great atop Spinach and Chimichurri Sauce.

Camarones en Garlic-Lemon Butter Sauce — Loved the Roasted Tomato Butter Sauce too.

Cheers to El Totito’s longevity and continuous progression.

Our menu tour concluded with the Seafood Fajitas Supremas, a guest and employee favorite.

It includes Shrimp, Mahi Mahi and Crispy Calamari — A supreme Fajitas combination indeed.

Flourless Chocolate Cake, a gluten free choice by many — It’s ultra-moist with excellent flavor.

Thank you dedicated Chefs!  Looks like they have a great team under Chef Loreto Alcala (right).  Chef Arturo Castillo (left) heads up El Torito’s Orange location off The City Way.  We dined at the Fullerton location this day, a nice, large space with a Bar and Outdoor Patio.

We wish El Torito 60+ more years of success combined with dish and drink innovation.