Recent Posts

Edinburgh Scotland, French Food

Castle Terrace, Edinburgh

[fsg_gallery id=”4″]

This was an absolutely perfect meal….This was truly world class. Chef Jack is brilliant !

A little bit about the Chef Dominic Jack:”Legendary chef Alain Solivérès recognized his talent and took him to three-star Michelin restaurant, Taillevent, where Dominic then held the position of sous chef-de cuisine for over four years.”

The Sea Trout Cannelloni was life changing, an amazing filling rolled in a pasta that had the most spectacular texture…I’m ruined for life…..few will measure up!….The main was Plaice on cauliflower or as my chef friend called it precision on a plate, prefect in every detail.  The cheese cart was a mind boggling assortment of wonderful local cheese….All the wine pairings were excellent on par with the finest French restaurants of Paris.

I can go on for hours describing this sensual experience. ..Just don’t miss this place when in Edinburgh

Castle Terrace Restaurant

33/35 Castle Terrace
Edinburgh
EH1 2EL

Share
France, French Food, Paris, Wine

Les 101 de Taillevent, Paris

[fsg_gallery id=”15″]

I ventured over to the First District and Enjoyed a nice lunch and some fine wines at Les 101 de Taillevent. This is a casual wine bar/bistro by the owner of the landmark Talievent. It retained 3 Michelin stars for 34 years but finally was demoted to two stars in the 2007 Michelin France guide. The star system is so strict and important to chefs that they have been know to commit suicide over a demotion. It is the highest honor to hold a 3 star rating for even one year. There are only 50, 3 star restaurants in the world. The Sommelier is the same for Les 101 as Taillivent and is among the best in the world. Les 101 is named for the 101 wines available by the glass. The food and wine pairings are world class and I highly recommend a stopping in for lucnh or dinner. You can enjoy the Taillevent experience without the Taillivent price.

Les 101 de Taillevent

75008 Paris
Tél : +33(0)1.40.74.20.20
Fax : +33(0)1.40.74.20.21

Share
Paris, restaurant

L’As Du Fallafel, Paris, France

[flickrset id=”72157626529473101″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

Located in the heart of the Marais one can usually locate L’as Du Fallafel by the line in front.  You maybe taken back at first by the person collecting for your Fallafel in advance while you are in line but i can assure that this is standard procedure.  It’s worth the wait in line for a take away or for a table inside. This is the best Fallef you will have even by Middle eastern standards.  This is certainly the best 5 Euro lunch you can have in Paris…I highly recommend it, I have never been disappointed!

 

34 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris, France +33 1 48 87 63 60

Share
France, Paris, restaurant, Rue Saint-Dominique

la Fontaine de Mars

[flickrset id=”72157631222066126″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

It’s been a while since I had lunch at la Foutaine de Mars. This is a classic French Bistro with very solid food. The quality of the food is very good and preparation professional.  The portion size is large probably geared towards the American tourist crowd.  I had an appetizer pastry stuffed with goat cheese it was excellent and large enough for 4 people. The Scallop entry also was very good, cooked to perfection and large. I certainly would recommend it anyone that likes a lot of good food.

 

Restaurant la Fontaine de Mars

129, Rue Saint-Dominique
75007 PARIS 7ème
Tél: 01 47 05 46 44

Share
Florence, restaurant, Tuscan

RISTORANTE IL LATINI

[flickrset id=”72157630728573900″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

While staying in the lovely countryside of Tuscany, Lori decided to have me, drive us to Florence to visit a restaurant recommend by her doctor that is known to love his food.  I was reluctant to drive in Florence because this usually involves driving down one way streets the wrong direction , driving in traffic restricted areas and a host of other moving violations.  This time was no exception so after the “drive” we arrived in Florence, parked the car and found IL Latini.

IL Latini is known for their Florentine Steaks which can be some of the best beef found in the world.  Two of the best steaks we have eaten have been Florentine however sadly to say this was not going to be one of those heavenly days. The restaurant is very casual, crowded with many tourists and the servers really did a great job of working the crowd.  We ordered the Steak , Tuscan beans and salad.   The kindest comments I have was that the food was OK or perhaps they had an off day.

RISTORANTE IL LATINI

Address: via dei Palchetti 6/r (Palazzo Rucellai) – 50123 – Firenze
Telephone: (+39) 055 210916
Email: info@illatini.com

Share
Italian, Italy, Roma, Rome, Rome eats

Ristorante S.ANNA, Rome, Italy

[fsg_gallery id=”22″]

We learned about S.Anna from some locals siting besides us at Da Francisco. Since then we have visited several times.  S.Anna is a nice local everyday Italian restaurant.  Pasta are house made and great.  The anti-pasta bar offer a good assortment and is very good. Once in a while they have this special cake that they bake it’s really a treat.  I can’t think of the name of it but I do remember having it a couple of times then being disappointed one day when they ran out of it.   Do visit for solid and unpretentious Italian food.

Ristorante S.Anna

P.IVA 04199781008 – Via di S. Anna, 8/9 – 00186 Roma Tel. 06.68.30.71.90 – 06.68.96.485 – ristorantesantanna@libero.it
Accettiamo tutte le carte di credito – Chiuso la Domenica

Share
France, French Food, Paris, restaurant

Angelina, Paris

[flickrset id=”72157630728503514″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

We go to Angelina on a cool day to warm up with a cup of their world famous “Hot Chocolate” it tastes similar to a gourmet chocolate bar melted and served with a side of whipped cream. They are also well know as a place for “Ladies to Lunch” while taking a break from wearing out their husband’s credit cards.  While it’s our primary “Hot Chocolate” destination the food is also quite good as well.

Angelina
26 rue de Rivoli – 75 001 Paris

Share
Gelato, Roma, Rome, Rome eats

Old Bridge Gelateria, Rome

[flickrset id=”72157630728606980″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

Across the street from the entrance to the Vatican Museum is Lori’s favorite gelateria  in Rome.  In fact I think it’s religious experience her! Old Bridge is one of the top shops in Rome their specialty is fruit flavors.  We learned about this shop many years ago from a cab driver late one evening heading back to the hotel when Lori decided it was time for one more Gelato.  We always stop here as well as Gelareria dei Gracchi my old favorite.  I have a new favorite to introduce Lori to on our next trip. While doing this post, I notice they have plans on selling franchises…I’m ready.

Old Bridge Gelateria

Viale dei Bastioni di Michelangelo 5, Roma San Pietro

Share
German Food, Germany, Munich

Hofbräuhaus, Munich, Germany

[flickrset id=”72157630693441354″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

I have not been to Germany lately and after arriving 5 hours late, I was hungry and ready to eat at 3pm local time. Being after lunch and prior to dinner, options are limited. I decided to try a landmark the Hofbrauhaus, it’s exactly what you would expect from a typical German Beer House. You stroll in and sit down anywhere you want at these huge communal tables. A waiter will come up and bring you a liter of BEER (the Germans always drink it in liter size). I decided on my favorite hauxen and pretzel. The food was not really good so I’d recommend sticking with a BEER and pretzel.

 

Hofbräuhaus München

Platzl 9  Bayern, 80331

Share
Asian, Washington DC

Uni a Place for Sushi, Washington DC

[flickrset id=”72157630620758228″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

Yes! there are several great Susi restaurants in DC. Uni is locate about 6 blocks away from my favorite Taro. The fish is pristine and wasabi fresh ground. They have a great assortment of hot and cold appetizer including on of our favorite, beef tataki. They also feature a great selection of Japanese beer and sake. The surrounding are not as cool as Taro and perhaps the food not quite at the level of excellence but still indeed excellent . Uni is a much friendlier restaurant that allows for interaction between client and chef also more reasonably priced.

You cannot go wrong at Uni!

Uni a Place for Sushi

2122 P Street, NW, Washington DC 20037 — (202) 833-8038

Share
Brunch, Florida

Sundy House, Delray Beach FL

[flickrset id=”72157630485961106″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

Driving up to the Sundy House is like driving up to a quaint B&B locate in a tropical paradise. They have an elaborate Sunday Brunch buffet inclusive of Champagne and Bloody Marys. The food quality and preparation are very good. I enjoyed everything with the exception of the Oysters, they were farm raised and not very good. I mentioned it to the management on a survey they handed out and they responded positively that they were not totally please by them and are looking for another source.

We have never stayed at the Sundy House B&B however the ground are very tranquil. We definitely recommend the brunch, bring your large pants and enjoy.

Sundy House

106 S Swinton Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444

Tel: 561.272.5678 | Toll-free: 877.439.9601

 

Share
Brunch, Florida, Happy Hour, Palm Beach, restaurant

Atlantic Grill, Delray Beach Florida

[flickrset id=”72157630703317848″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

Sunday Brunch at the Atlantic Grill, Delray Beach Florida:
Located in the Seagate Hotel the Atlantic Grill is an attractive looking place. The food was hit and miss, basicaly there was no consistency from the kitchen. Ingredients were of average quality and preparation hap hazard. The service was pleasant however unprofessional. My poached eggs arrived very overcooked when I returned them they were returned in better condition however the English muffins were soggy and cold.  Many of the dishes lacked any inspired flavor including the Trio Benedict and Fried Brie. The presentations were not bad and Lori’s lobster frittata was pretty good although very small for 19 dollars. The Pineapple Cake with Coconut Ice Cream desert was made the prior day and was very soggy. We recommend coming in for happy hour this way you can enjoy the lovely ambiance and some of appetizers.

Located at The Seagate Hotel & Spa
1000 E. Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33483

Share
France, French Food, Paris

Café Constant , Paris

[fsg_gallery id=”18″]

Walking down rue Saint-Dominique from the Eiffel Tower the  first of the three Christian Constant restaurants you reach is Cafe Constant. This is a local cafe were you may find Christian himself (see photo) dining. The specials change daily and come to you on the good old fashion black board. This is one of my regular stops in Paris because it is open all day. They have several different menus according to the time of day. I really can say that I’ve never had a meal I did not like here!

High Quality ingredients, prepared to perfection and reasonable prices!!

 

 

Café Constant
139, rue Saint-Dominique
75007 Paris
FRANCE
Tél.: 01 47 53 73 34
contact@cafeconstant.com

Share
Uncategorized, Washington DC

Bobby’s Burger Palace, Washington DC

[flickrset id=”72157630013729642″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

I checked out Bobby Flay’s (grill-boy as Ari of Entourage calls him) new venture in the burger joint frenzy. I grabbed my camera and walked a mile or so on a great day in DC. Once I arrived at Bobby’s, I viewed the menu on the wall and ordered several items including a milkshake which I don’t have very often. You order, pay, sit and wait for your food to arrive.

The shake arrived first, disappointing there was an option for “REAL” whip cream however no option for a “Real” shake.  It was basically flavorless and tasted one step below a McD’s mix shake.  The burger arrived with the fries next. The burger was good but nothing I’d go running back for.  The fries were not worth eating, in fact, I stopped at FIVE GUYS for some very good fries to fill that square on the way back to the hotel.  My recommendation would be take the Bobby’s Burger to go and get some fries at FIVE GUYS for a good meal.

Bobby’s Located around the Northeast

Share
France, French Food, Paris

Le Reminet, Paris

[fsg_gallery id=”17″]

Lori found this wonderful place a few years ago. Unfortunately it got lost in the backlog of photos to be blogged. The food was wonderful and its great for a romantic evening.  The presentations and food were executed with the French flair you’d expect at a high end establishment yet Le Reminet was very reasonably priced…..It’s on the list for a blog update!

Le Reminet, Paris
Cuisine:Inventive Cuisine
Address:3 rue des grands degres,
75005 Paris (See map)
Telephone:01 44 07 04 24
Metro:Maubert-Mutualité

Share
Edinburgh Scotland

Ondine Restaurant, Edinburgh

[flickrset id=”72157630118271016″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

Located just a few steps off the Royal Mile this seafood-er serves only the finest fresh local catch.  It’s elegant modern interior is as stylish as the food presentations.  The oysters are amazing served with a Wild Boar sausage on the side.  The daily lunch and prix-theater specials are a good value. All of the fish is cooked to perfection and served with attention to detail.  The Carmel Sundae for dessert should not be passed up!

Ondine Restaurant

2 George IV Bridge,
Edinburgh,
EH1 1AD

Telephone/Reservations: 0131 226 1888

Share
Italian, Italy, Tuscan

Osteria dell’Olmo, Perugia, Italy

[flickrset id=”72157627824848173″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”large”]

We received a recommendation from a friend of a friend that has sent a lot of time in Perugia. We called our Italian friends and asked them to join us for dinner. I set the GPS in the rental car and off we went. After the usual amount of animated conversation and circling we arrived. We were pleasantly surprised by a charming exterior and really impressed by the romantic setting inside. It was love at first sight for me and first bite for Lori. All of the dishes were expertly prepared and presented in a modern yet approachable manner, very fitting for the location. All of the pasta dishes were homemade and superb. The eggplant starter was amazing!! The local fish was pristine and melted like butter in your mouth. The Tuscan white pork was almost as good as sex.

All around an excellent dinner at a very reasonable cost. We all agreed that is was definitely a fine recommendation.

Osteria dell’Olmo, Perugia, Italy

Share
Paris, restaurant

L’Avent Comptoir, Paris

[fsg_gallery id=”19″]

Is a small standing room only wine bar that serves outstanding French hors d’oeuvres and crepes. WARNING: if you are interested in eating something healthy don’t come here! It’s one of my favorites!

They serve the most delicious grilled pork fat(lard) that I have eaten and the beef carpaccio is excellent . The menu hangs from the ceiling with pictures for those that don’t speak French. This is a great place to hang out relax and enjoy several small plates of food. It’s great for a” light” LOL and inexpensive lunch.

 

9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris, France

+33 1 44 27 07 97‎ · hotel-paris-relais-saint-germain.com
Share
Paris, restaurant

Le Comptoir, Paris

[fsg_gallery id=”25″]

Le Comptior is situated on a very busy corner in the Latin Quarter idea for dining outside when weather permits and enjoying the favorite Paris pastime of people watching. Inside the bistro is small and attractive. The food however is excellent!! I suggest if you want to avoid waiting for a table you arrive for an early lunch about 1130am and wait in line until they open. There is always a line ever since Anthony Bourdain featured the place it has been very popular with tourists from around the world. Do not fear, they have not become a tourist trap!!  I stared with a Squid sauteed with sweet onions and a balsamic reduction which was absolutely fantastic. The main was a simple roast beef cooked rare and so tender I  cut it with a fork.  The mashed potatoes were velvety smooth loaded with that wonderful French butter. The desert was a nice waffle accompanied by some fruit compote. I might suggest a crepe for desert next door at L’Avent Comptior. I will discuss that in detail in another post.

I can’t wait to return and try some more of the extensive menu!!!

9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris, France

+33 1 44 27 07 97‎ · hotel-paris-relais-saint-germain.com
Share
France, French Food, Paris, restaurant

La Crêperie de Josselin Crêperie

[flickrset id=”72157629994791185″ thumbnail=”square” overlay=”true” size=”medium”]

This is a long time favorite of ours. Josselin features a huge assortment of Brittan style crepes. My favorites are the bacon, egg, spinach and cream cheese and the Martinique which comes out Flambe. Upon arrival you will get in line there is almost always a line. It moves very fast so don’t worry! When called you will be shoe horned into the smallest table and seating area you have seen. This seems to just add to the ambiance and charm of the place. I ordered the the bacon, egg, spinach and  cream cheese first. I was a little reluctant to order the Martinique for desert fearing they might consider me an American pig however when the Frenchman who had the same crepe as I, ordered another for desert, I felt at ease and ordered mine.  These Crepes are amazing and I place this on a “MUST VISIT” list if you go to Paris. For those of you on a tight budget this is your dream come true!!

 

La Crêperie de Josselin

67 Rue du Montparnasse, Paris, France+33 1 43 20 93 50

Share