Eat Chow — Did you know there are two? Another one recently opened in Newport Beach.
This is just a peek at a couple of the notable dishes we had there.
More soon to come to this blog in front of you. Thank you Eat Chow — You’re cool peeps.
Come back after a libation to learn more about the above — It’ll be posted above it.
At Ka Shabu, YOU are the Chef — Make your own Japanese Hot Pot / Soup.
Choose a Meat, Fish or Vegetable, or a combination of all.
Each seat has its own cooking station to create the Soup Base of your dreams.
Entrees include Rice, Vegetables and Soup Base, as pointed out by the chipped-polish server.
Add Green Onions, Garlic and Daikon Radish for texture, and Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil and whatever else you fancy. I added much of the Ponzu Sauce that’s also served with the meal.
Kanpai Tomodachi.
YOU grind Sesame Seeds to help prepare a Sesame Peanut Sauce.
I had the Beef Filet and others had the Chicken, Shrimp and Vegetables.
The Chicken looked like Hamachi, which I’d prefer, though it’s not served here.
It’s an engaging experience and my Soup Base turned out pretty darn tasty.
Ka Shabu — The fantastic smell of Garlic boiling in Soup pots hits you when you walk in.
The Park Bench Cafe — An outdoor Cafe in Huntington Beach that caters to dogs and people.
A serene place for Breakfast or Lunch — Dogs are treated to Canine Cuisine and people pay.
We had the Club House Sandwich pictured at top and the Supreme Melt below.
And Leon had the Peanut Butter Puppy.
Water is available for the Dogs.
And the surrounding park and lake are picturesque for all.
The French Fries are extra good.
Back view of The Park Bench Cafe and its outdoor seating.
And view from car, before backing out to head for nearby dog beach to soak in the sun.
Dog day afternoon without a bank robbery — I see why it always looks busy when I drive by.
The lovers, the dreamers and me at Sushi Wave for a lunch escape, next door to Radio Shack.
A (blurry) vision, but not an illusion — It’s a House Salad and Rainbow Roll at Sushi Wave.
Delight on a whim — Past ready for lunch, I stepped away from the audio/video connector’s world for a peaceful, fresh, satisfying bite. Don’t let this option hide from you on Newport Blvd.
Title and word play inspired by a favorite songwriter and the pictured Rainbow Roll.
Nibbles of Tidbits hopes to be at The OC’s “Golden Foodie Awards” and looks forward to a Summer of foodie events leading up to it. We hope to be everywhere that’s happening to report about it — Please see the http://goldenfoodieawards.com press release below:
Have you been to Prime Cut Café & Wine Bar yet?
We happily discovered it down the street from the Honda Center.
The service is indeed warm and friendly, as described in The Prime Cut Difference (above).
Starting Monday, April 30th, they’ll be offering prix fixe Three Course Dinners for $20.
Nibbles of Tidbits got to pre-nibble it — Somebody has to make sure all will be up to par.
For Starters, we opted for the Tomato Bisque.
And the Marinated Roasted Beet and Avocado Salad — The portion sizes are generous.
For our Entrees, we selected the Spice Roasted Chicken (top) and Shortrib Pasta (above).
And the Wild Berry Sorbet and Carrot Cake for Dessert.
I love the Café’s lighting — It just feels right and goes well with the classy food.
Dining at Prime Cut Café could save money on a movie ticket too — A Theater is next door.
Bar area (below), straight ahead as you walk in.
Cheers to a great deal — The Three Course Dinner MENU will be available M – TH.
Excellent Wine isn’t included in the price, but highly recommended.
We like the price of Burgers and Wine at The Counter during Happy Hour.
Mini Cheeseburgers are $2 for two, featured Wine is $3 a Glass and Starters are 1/2 off.
The service is good at Westcliff Village in Newport Beach — Its operators run this location too.
We relished 2 Glasses of Wine, 4 Mini Cheeseburgers, a large plate of Parmesan French Fries with Rosemary (not pictured, blurry) and a Coke for $16.15 — That’s super and all was terrific.
Responsibility never tasted so good they say — 100% of the profits from Andrei’s Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails go to aid people affected by vision impairment and blindness. How often does that happen? It’s a wonderful thing, as is the waterfall wall seen as you walk in.
It’s touching to see how loved Andrei was by his family — The restaurant was created in his honor and now helps others. Read more about that here and you’ll want to dine there.
The restaurant is upstairs and special events are hosted downstairs and up.
It’s an open, airy space with lots of big windows.
More about Andrei’s is told on the menu and more about the menu is here.
They have a Happy Hour, Free Corkage on Tuesdays and a Flamenco Guitarist some days.
It’s called Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails, as they “care deeply” about all aspects of food sourcing, serving, and creating an environment where sharing a meal enhances relationships.
During a Happy Hour pop in, we shared a few Small Plates.
Andrei’s Crab Cakes.
Vegetable Arancini.
And Grilled Tomato & Cheese — Our favorite of the bunch was Andrei’s Crab Cakes.
Bar and lounge area with cozy couches and pillows.
Everyone was so nice, without the mention of Nibbles of Tidbits, our regular M.O.
The valet parking area reminds me of Palm Springs — I like the feel and thought of it all.
It’s Cafe Rio that I can’t get enough of lately — Upon realization, I photographed the latest, a Shredded Chicken Enchilada with Green Sauce, Green Chili Rice and Black Beans. Good stuff!
I’ve had Plums catered, but had yet to dine in the Café until now — It always seems so busy.
This day we sat on the patio with a few Starters and Wine.
We shared the Wild Herb Risotto Cakes with Bistro Greens and Dilled Tomato Salsa.
And the Dungeness Crab Puppies and Oregonzola and Roasted Muscat Grapes.
Two out of three ain’t bad, as the song goes — The taste and temperature of the Roasted Muscat Grapes just didn’t work for us, and the Cheese with too few Hazelnuts and very little Honey wasn’t the greatest, but we always appreciate unique food combinations.
Next door to Plums Café is the Astoria Ballroom to dance, a runner up to eating, for me.
Plums Café and the Astoria Ballroom offer a generous Dinner & Dance SPECIAL each month.
We stopped in for a visit and couldn’t resist a couple dance moves — See me in the mirror?
Look for this coupon (or it’s only $40 without it) and prepare to learn the Cha Cha, Tango, Waltz, Rumba, Foxtrot or Swing, after dinner next door at Plums Café. Did you know they serve dinner now too? They used to be open for breakfast and lunch (only), but today there is much going on in its obscure corner in Costa Mesa off 17th Street.
We set out for The Blue Beet (below) for Throwback Thursday, but unfortunately so did everyone else. The crowd in conjunction with a no-show Hostess and too narrow wait area sent us on a detour for peaceful dining — And we didn’t have to go far to find tranquil class at 21 Oceanfront (above). Both are walking distance from the Newport Beach Pier.
The unexpected surprise of the evening was the Prime Rib Slider at 21 Oceanfront. We thought it to be the best Prime Rib Sandwich each of us ever had. Unfortunately the photos didn’t do ’em, or much of anything else justice this evening, as much as all was appreciated in person. We’re going back for more Prime Rib Sliders, $6 during Happy Hour.
Our hazy, gazy view of Newport waves from a 21 Oceanfront table — We toasted to it.
Orange County Restaurant Week starts today — It’s the best time to dine out in the OC.
Its Launch Party at Newport Lexus was the perfect kick-off — Tasty bites at every turn.
Wine and song to entertain.
The Chocolate Raspberry Martini almost made me want a Lexus.
Pulled Pork Sliders from the House of Blues — Love it as a concert venue.
The Cupcakes were gone by the time we finished savory — Should’ve reserved one.
A special shout out goes to RA Sushi — We couldn’t get enough of their Shishito Peppers.
The Lobster Bisque offered by Scott’s Restaurant & Bar was one of our favorites.
And the Lobster Mac & Cheese from House of Big Fish may be the best I’ve ever had.
The only thing to make for dinner this week are reservations, they say. I think so too.
May need to go to Sundried Tomato to have this Chopped Salad (below) again.
I’ve appreciated Melissa’s Produce for years and have a story for another time.
Where are you dining this week? Polenta with Pulled Pork (top) was from Cucina Enoteca.
Starfish and a couple others ran out of food early — Wasn’t fond of that, but went elsewhere.
An honorable mention goes to Slater’s 50/50 for their Vampire Dip — It’s Gar-Lick-Key, but oh so darn good, and what nice servers they had. All was a good time. Thanks!
In respect to Asian traditions, you’re encouraged to share dishes with friends and family — I read it on the Starfish Menu (created for sharing), and gladly did so. Embrace the custom.
Starfish in Laguna Beach serves Asian Coastal Cuisine that’s best described here.
Its atmosphere is sexy and stylish, set for passion, desire, pleasure, romance and sensitivity.
As well as energy, unity, strength, compassion, patience and heart, they hope — I see it.
It’s good for the eyes and soul — And so are the amazingly flavorful Korean Galbi Tacos.
We also had the Wagyu Banh Mi Sliders (above) and Starfish Baby Back Ribs (below).
Every dish packed a punch of flavor and the Ribs were fork tender, a must for my vote.
I love its light blue and red colors, and the back lit wall in the Bar area — It’s beautiful.
Starfish is an alluring find in the Aliso Creek Shopping Center, across from the Montage Resort.
And they also wish YOU luck, longevity, prosperity, happiness and wealth.
Che Loong Starfish — We appreciate the FOOD and well wishes.
Pescadou Bistro gladly discovered during Newport Beach Restaurant Week.
Must have passed it a hundred times on Newport Boulevard and finally dined in. It was a Wednesday when there is no corkage fee. We didn’t know it until we saw patron after patron walk in with a bottle of Wine. Next time I’m bringin’ a bottle too (most did), and won’t feel stupid — Always thought it awkward, but it’s smart when no corkage. Who’s stupid now?
Enlightened is the word — We ordered from the restaurant week and regular menu, as many French specialties sounded good, and previously reported about Pescadou Bistro’s Paté.
Don’t have exact names of the pictured here, but confidently state ALL was a pleasure.
A toast with Wine on the tab, to the Paté, Salad with Wild Boar Salami and Gold Potato, Cream of Cauliflower Soup, Grilled Lamb Chops and “Gigot” Slow Roasted Leg of Lamb. Santé!
And to one of the best desserts I’ve ever had — It doesn’t look all that, especially in the photo below, but DANG, it was taste-TEE and unfortunately not on their regular menu. It should be.
Described as an Ice Cream Parfait with Candied Fruit and Red Raspberry Sauce, it was extraordinaire. I hope to have IT again. And Foie Gras, before the end of the year (preferably on a Wednesday) — It’s at Pescadou Bistro, until it’s banned from being sold in California next year. I’m not keen on the politics of it and recommend the Bistro become a speakeasy for it. There’s a lot more to say and write about it, but on a different blog.
Back to Pescadou — Stop in for dinner (only) ahead of passing it by. It’s romantic too.
Once the site of a speakeasy during prohibition, The Blue Beet plays on. And do you remember Sid? More history about the place can be found here. It’s a cool joint with good food and music. One of our Guest Bloggers, Bonnie recently enjoyed their historic prices (currently offered on Thursdays) with her son and wrote the following:
We went to the Blue Beet tonight for the “Throwback Thursday” specials that they are doing for their 100th Anniversary. Both Jay and I (and it seems like everyone around us) ordered the Beef Stroganoff, plus their “Gourmet” Mac ‘N Cheese. I think it’s the most incredible deal I have ever gotten for a dinner. It was a full plate of Stroganoff on top of Mashed Potatoes and comes with a very generous side of Green Beans.
Although I didn’t particularly care for the Mac ‘N Cheese, it was a full bowl, along with two slices of Garlic Bread. With two Cokes, the meal for both of us came to $24.00 and I have enough left over for a full lunch tomorrow!! Too bad I didn’t have my camera.
Menu offerings on Throwback Thursday:
Garlic Bread $1.95
Clam Chowder $2.95
Dinner Salad $2.95
BBQ Chicken Salad $4.95
Top Sirloin steak $5.25
Beef Stroganoff $5.25
Pork Chops $5.75
Steak Sandwich $5.75
Mac ‘N Cheese $3.95
Jay never had Stroganoff before, but he loved it! He ate every single bite of it, along with the Mac ‘N Cheese and his Garlic Bread. I highly recommend the place. That’s my report for now.
Thanks Bonnie! You better bring a camera next time — Above photo credited to a Yelper.
Celebrate Leap Year during Orange County Restaurant Week, February 26th – March 3rd.
Participating restaurants may be seen from a participating restaurant — Orange Hill.
More rivalry and revelry at Medieval Times‘ New Show, two years in the making.
It’s now showing at the California Castle with an upgraded utensil-free MENU.
Waiting to be called for the Dinner & Tournament with a Glass of Wine.
Guests may also enjoy the Courtyard before the show.
And the Sword Store.
All then enter the theater to join their assigned (colored) team members.
We cheered for the Blue Knight — Can’t you tell by our lighting?
Menu — Though it reads Garlic Bread, it’s Focaccia Bread with Olive Oil and Seasoning.
The show begins with the most spectacular horse (below) — It’s gorgeous and talented.
It and the free flying falcon made the show for me.
Tomato Bisque — We liked its flavor.
The Oven Roasted Chicken was juicy, tender and easy to eat without utensils.
The Pastry of the Castle was warm Braided Apple Strudel.
It struck me that Medieval Times sure employs a lot of people — Why not support it?!
I was here about 15 years ago and it’s better than I remember, and a fun experience.
There’s much hospitality at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and the food is good.
Castles are found in eight states and two countries — Time to get into the 11th Century.
Have you visited Local Cuisine? It’s an excellent resource to find the best restaurants in Orange County. Search by restaurant name, cuisine type, city, zip code, or browse its specially selected list — Featured restaurants are voted on and off the Local Cuisine list by Local Experts, and I’m humbled to be one of them. Our first meeting took place at The Playground. Be sure to keep an eye on Local Cuisine for the latest and greatest restaurant additions and list of local food-related events, and create a profile and write a review, if you so choose.
Photo: Paté from Pescadou Bistro during Newport Beach Restaurant Week — More here.
The Playground, what a find. I knew I’d like a restaurant named The Playground. It’s in Santa Ana off 4th and Spurgeon, near the Plaza Fiesta. A group of us recently met there for an amazing Champagne Brunch, and spent time with its passionate Owner and Executive Chef Jason Quinn, who loves what he does and only offers the best — Impressive food and team.
Fresh, sophisticated, quality ingredients combined simply for superb flavor seems to be the focus. And they don’t skimp on the aesthetics, as you see, the food is beautiful too.
Unfortunately I didn’t capture all well enough, but the posted photos start with Wagyu Beef.
On to an artistic Soft Shell Crab Roll and Wild Boar Belly (both shown above).
Benton’s Ham is added to many tasty dishes and is out of this world alone.
The Playground’s MENU will vary, as creativity and enthusiasm overflow.
Breakfast Hash with Brussels Sprouts above and a special Short Stack below.
A bowl of the freshest Shellfish with Whole Shrimp hangin’ out — Nice Broth.
Thanks for the Oysters too — Tasted freshness over and over again.
Unique offerings of Beer and Wine are available at the Bar or anywhere inside.
We met at The Playground as a fortunate group of Local Experts for Local Cuisine.
I’ll soon spotlight Local Cuisine to note the cool things about it, after the Cinnamon Roll.
Its spot in Fashion Island (near Nordstrom) has gone through a few changes to become the Great Maple it is today. I liked the Italian restaurants that preceded it and now appreciate the “Libations and Seasonal Plates” we had in the Bar this day — $5 Small Plates on Fridays.
It was Happy Hour time (4:00 – 6:30PM) and the start of Newport Beach Restaurant Week.
All deals were contemplated over a couple Black Lemonades, a seasonal drink special.
Bread in a bag with soft Butter, with a dash of Olive Oil, Parsley, Salt & Pepper, a nice touch.
Here for a quick bite on the way to elsewhere and do want to try the Moroccan Lamb Burger next time. Today it was the Market Asparagus with Shaved Pecorino and Lemon Olive Oil.
Chorizo Picante Board and Aioli Mayo.
Creamy Polenta with Pancetta and Shaved Pecorino.
Great Maple: Nice people, creative libations, a cool atmosphere and tasty seasonal plates.
I’d been looking for the right Lobster Roll to try and it finally came along with great satisfaction — My first ever, since they’re more popular on the East Coast. That’s my excuse and/or they are expensive when offered and haven’t had the quality ingredients sought.
The Lobster Roll is a popular special at Santa Monica Seafood — Generous chunks of Lobster are tossed with a refreshing Lemon Aioli and Chives, then served on a soft Roll. It’s perfect.
Dine inside, on the patio, at the Oyster Bar or take something to-go from the Fish Market.
Shucking Oysters (below) — Tell them what kind you want or what you like in an Oyster.
We tried the Kusshi (left) and Misty Pointe (right) — Both were superb, especially the MP.
They have an amazing, well displayed and serviced selection at Santa Monica Seafood.
Live Lobster, an option I’m skipping for a while. See why here — Too much going on.
Sashimi Grade Fish is also available. Someday I’ll make Sushi.
Several kinds of Crab, Shrimp, Lobster and Fish are sold daily.
Prices vary and may not be the same as shown here today.
Indian Candy, a sweet, salty and smoky Salmon, in the case above is a favorite.
Cheese, Wine, Herbs, cooking tools and all necessities for a nice meal or picnic are here.
Since their re-design that happened about a year ago, it’s nice to dine in with a Glass of Wine.
Our server, Ashley was awesome, sweet and cool, and reminded us of Jody Foster.
Happy Hour looks good, if you can make it in before the 5PM cut-off. It’s an early one.
And here’s that Lobster Roll I kissed — Smooch. Time to get a room. It was sooooo good. 😉
Santa Monica Seafood is better than ever and family owned since 1939.
It’s a dining option I’ll think of more often — There’s a lot to see, cook and eat.
Whoever started Wordless Wednesday is a genius, though I rarely take full advantage of it, as you see words — There’s a lot to say about Santa Monica Seafood and its new-ish design, the Oyster Bar, the market, and the Lobster Roll that didn’t get away, but not today.
Soon back for (and with) more of everything — Cheers to that!
Now back to Wordless Wednesday ;).
The OC Fair New Year’s Eve Block Party is almost like being at the Orange County Fair.
Dry Turkey Legs (sorry) best underscore my first sentence — You’ve seen them before.
Snapshots of the NYE event, Part (2) of (2) are posted here — Untimely camera issues caused spots on most photos planned for use. Gourmet Food Trucks were parked throughout.
Cocktails & Desserts were available in each and every hanger.
The LA based Border Grill Truck was in the OC too, amongst many local darlings.
We were keen on the Casino games and won OC Fair tickets, as reported in Part (1) of (2).
I still don’t know how to play Craps — I like Poker best, but it wasn’t played this night.
In addition to the Gourmet Food Trucks and Baja Blues, a few OC Fair fixtures were grillin’.
As like 2010, a nice, respectable, friendly bunch of people attended this year’s Block Party.
Dueling Pianos were playing at Baja Blues, replacing last year’s Karaoke.
Unicycling and chainsaw juggling was happening in the streets, near the Ferris Wheel.
Piaggio On Wheels Chicken Milanesa Sandwich — I like their Bacon Wrapped Hot Dog best.
Do you remember what I reported about the Brussels Sprouts? I’m still thinking about ’em.
To its right is the Truffled Fried Mac N’ Cheese, I think — Don’t recall its exact name.
It’s from Home Skillet, like the Brussels Sprouts — Most impressed with them this evening.
The Media Lounge was in a different spot this year, closer to the action they say — We stopped in for a few and most enjoyed the Cheese Platter, pictured in Part (1) of (2).
Thank you! I already can’t wait until next year.
Recent Comments