tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57572628568662483482024-02-07T18:31:29.206-08:00THE GREAT ESCAPEMichelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-67249140976985855842018-11-19T12:08:00.001-08:002018-11-19T12:08:06.243-08:00BLU HALO, Tallahassee, FLIT WAS A GREAT, GREAT ESCAPE...........
Our Great Escape Dining Group, together for more than a dozen years, disbanded when a couple of the members moved away. But we don't let a little geography get in the way of a good time do we? So we chose a spot on the map that was midway between Atlanta and Tampa and came up with Tallahassee, a comfortable drive for all.
We dined out for Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast together, catching up on our lives and reminiscing about Great Escapes past. The most enjoyable meal we had was at Blu Halo, a beautiful and classy restaurant located off Thomasville Road. I gave it high marks for ambiance. The eponymous 'blue halo' spanned the center of the restaurant emitting a beautiful glow and the decor was crisp and clean with just the right amount of adornment.
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<blockquote></blockquote>The food was delicious and our server couldn't have been more charming and efficient. I had to order the Blu Halo Martini and it not only looked good but tasted wonderful. We had prime rib, petit sirloin, pasta, caesar salad with chicken, swordfish. All of it was prepared perfectly and presented with style. For dessert we ordered a couple of Bread Puddings to share around the table and here was my one disappointment. Not that it wasn't tasty, but I consider myself somewhat of an aficionado on this dessert since I grew up eating it on holidays made from an old family recipe that I'll share below. Blu Halo's Bread Pudding tasted more like french toast. I challenge you to try my Abuela's recipe and judge for yourself!
<blockquote></blockquote>It was a lovely one night 'escape' and we plan to do it on a regular basis because nothing beats good food, good company, and good friends.
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<b><blockquote></blockquote></b>ABUELITA'S (GRANDMA'S) BREAD PUDDING
<b></b>Ingredients:
<blockquote></blockquote>2 loaves bread (any variety *)
<blockquote></blockquote>½ gal milk (whole, skim or 2%)
<blockquote></blockquote>1 lb sugar (brown, white or combination)
<blockquote></blockquote>3 eggs (or egg beaters)
<blockquote></blockquote>½ cup Karo or maple syrup
<blockquote></blockquote>1 tspn vanilla
<blockquote></blockquote>½ tspn cinnamon
<blockquote></blockquote>8 oz raisins (or prunes, dates, dried cranberries etc)
<blockquote></blockquote>Cut the bread into 1” cubes and put in a large 6 qt bowl. Add milk and let stand for 20 minutes while bread soaks it up. Using a potato masher, blend the softened bread with the milk till it looks mushy. Add all the other ingredients and blend well.
<blockquote></blockquote>Pour into two 9x12 lightly greased baking pans and bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/5 hours or until brown at edges.
<blockquote></blockquote>Serve warm or cold.
<blockquote></blockquote>* save the ends of any kind of bread…Italian, white, wheat, rolls….in a plastic bag in the freezer till you have enough to be the equivalent of 2 loaves.
<blockquote><b></b></blockquote>The Blue Halo
<blockquote></blockquote>3431 Bannerman Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32312
<blockquote></blockquote>www.thebluehalo.com
<blockquote></blockquote>850-999-1696
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-16881467797386453052018-06-25T11:17:00.000-07:002018-06-25T11:17:09.678-07:00Speaks Clam Bar, Lakewood Ranch, FL
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<blockquote></blockquote>Father's Day and aren't we smart?! We celebrated the day before and avoided crowds and long wait times and took this opportunity to try out a restaurant we'd been reading good things about - Speaks Clam Bar.
<blockquote></blockquote>Hubby just loves raw clams on the half shell, a throw back to his NYC upbringing and fond memories of his mom taking him to Louie's Clam Bar where they'd share about 3 dozen while talking about life. It doesn't get any better.
<blockquote></blockquote>Speaks is located in Lakewood Ranch and I'm happy to report they are opening a second Speaks in St. Armand's Circle sometime this summer. The restaurant was packed and if that's any indication all signs point to another successful location in Sarasota. I very much liked the whole vibe of Speaks. It was decorated with original graffiti art, tin ceilings reminiscent of NYC, and the service was very good - many thanks to our wonderful waitress Courtney. The owner came by as well to introduce himself and he and my husband shared their Italian heritage and some recipe stories.
<blockquote></blockquote>Hubby started with two dozen raw clams and I restrained myself and had only four so that he could indulge to his heart's content. He was quite satisfied. Then came a salad and for his main course he and my cousin chose Linguini Vongole (Fresh whole clams served over linguini and clam sauce). My cousin had Shrimp Scampi Linguine and declared it fabulous. And I had the Lobster Shrimp Lasagna which was deliciously stuffed with lobster and so filling I couldn't finish it.
We were gifted some sweets by the owner to have with our espressos and it was a perfect bite on which to end the evening. And yes, we will be back soon and often as I want to try some of the other dishes like the Maine Lobster Roll. Since they're so busy a reservation is recommended.
<blockquote></blockquote>8764 E State Rd 70
<blockquote></blockquote>Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
<blockquote></blockquote>http://speaksclambar.com/
<blockquote></blockquote>941-232-7646
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<blockquote></blockquote><a title="View Michelle Jolly's food journey on Zomato!" href="https://www.zomato.com/thegreatescape"><img alt="View my food journey on Zomato!" src="https://www.zomato.com/widgets/user_widget_img.php?type=leaderboard&city_id=604&user_id=23097347" width="130"></a>Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-22214065732814749782018-05-21T05:46:00.000-07:002018-05-21T05:46:35.161-07:00DEMI'S NOODLE HOUSE, Palmetto<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXeTimyqhe6u1_KOpM9BnoHWN7k88AHnSM1yJpDbRQF6eWNw0ynTPVMhMq5l5ywh-2PuqG2mwDjw1EmtBSheY2P4qiqrFJxnZtBB3Sncx5khTw8GOhRb1a9CgFNiVluqbHgTcSdnG11Kk/s1600/demisnoodlehouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXeTimyqhe6u1_KOpM9BnoHWN7k88AHnSM1yJpDbRQF6eWNw0ynTPVMhMq5l5ywh-2PuqG2mwDjw1EmtBSheY2P4qiqrFJxnZtBB3Sncx5khTw8GOhRb1a9CgFNiVluqbHgTcSdnG11Kk/s320/demisnoodlehouse.jpg" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a></div>
This was my first ever visit to a Vietnamese restaurant but you can be sure that it won’t be my last. Hubby loves noodles of all kinds so a quick search for ‘something new’ led us to Demi’s Noodle House in Palmetto. The building they are located in may have some identity problems. Its façade was Italianate and a Spanish Bienvenido plaque was affixed to the front. But once you walk in the Asian atmosphere takes over and it is a small but lovely interior. A sign directs you to the outside around the corner should you need to use the restroom so we figured out this building must have had a previous life as a gas station. No matter. It’s a lovely restaurant now.
<blockquote></blockquote>The servers were charming and professional and knowledgeable about the menu. I explained it was our first time eating Vietnamese and the owner came by to introduce himself to us and explain the concept. He’s American and his wife is Vietnamese and we are so happy that she is sharing her country’s cuisine with the rest of the world because it is delicious.
<blockquote></blockquote>Hubby had Pho (soup) with flank steak, a large steaming bowl of goodness that he very much enjoyed. I opted for the Chicken Lemongrass with jasmine rice and pickled carrots and radish. The flavors were so deep and intense that my taste buds were dancing in my mouth. The heat of the dish was enough to clear my sinuses and the rice and pickled vegetables were the perfect accompaniment to cool down the heat. We also tried the shrimp spring rolls, a cold appetizer that was crunchy and made even more yummy by dipping it in the peanut sauce. We finished with Crispy Shrimp Rolls wrapped in Wonton wrappers.
<blockquote></blockquote>There are lots more dishes I plan to try and look forward to going back with friends very soon.
<blockquote></blockquote>Update: Demi's has closed for about a month while the owners are travelling to Vietnam to visit Demi's ailing grandmother. I suspect she'll return with the some new and enticing recipes. Check out their face book page for news of their travels. facebook/DemisNoodleHouse.
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.demisnoodlehouse.com/
<blockquote></blockquote>1318 10th Street W., Palmetto, FL 34221
<blockquote></blockquote>941-301-1212Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-9759483269521936482017-06-12T17:30:00.001-07:002017-06-12T17:30:03.635-07:00The Bull Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, Tampa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tnBhdFww_wv1NoescqJPIUNrowemirer9CPvZUGTzJpZn7570EjRuT3lTfiJIuIf3JHTABx2ArvUi8Brg3y2wmj2ckma0E4JEUEnVqQWSHluy1IZjP5HZ5EW045dZmS15u71hQ0Li_4/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tnBhdFww_wv1NoescqJPIUNrowemirer9CPvZUGTzJpZn7570EjRuT3lTfiJIuIf3JHTABx2ArvUi8Brg3y2wmj2ckma0E4JEUEnVqQWSHluy1IZjP5HZ5EW045dZmS15u71hQ0Li_4/s400/Slide1.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a></div>
Hubby had been dying to go to one of these for a long time. We'd eaten at one in NYC before we moved down here and he remembered it fondly. The Martins invited us along to Bull Grill and we said sure, why not?!
The restaurant is dimly lit creating an intimate atmosphere. We were guided to the buffet sides which included some less than inspirational salad fixings, but the hot dishes were pretty good with our favorites being their Seafood Paella and the Lasagna Bolognese.
<blockquote></blockquote>But in this place IT'S ALL ABOUT THE MEAT! Once we got our sides and drinks a steady stream of young handsome waiters glided past our table with a skewer of some kind of meat (sirloin, rib eye, sausage, pork loin, lamb, chicken) and all the encouragement they needed was to see our card facing with the green side up which meant bring it on! I'm embarrassed to say it took us quite a while to turn our card over to red and by then we were so stuffed.
It was very tasty BUT, how much can one eat? This is the trouble with most buffets and Americans are known for over indulging, myself included. Buffets set up a mindset of "let's taste everything and let's get our money's worth", but really it's a bad trap.
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I'm glad we went as we had a pleasant evening out with friends, but I don't need to go back as that would be a bad habit to start.
<blockquote></blockquote>Bull Grill Steakhouse
<blockquote></blockquote>4820 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL 33603
<blockquote></blockquote>Phone: 813 877-7500 / www.bullgrillsteakhouse.com/brazilian-steakhouse-Tampa
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-48063366518955886282017-06-01T16:53:00.001-07:002017-06-01T16:53:57.907-07:00Ulele, Tampa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVutRwTcaOWWQhWpBbluZFhx8ptLhxd1IAA8NrB1H8mQ8isBN7EkiMaWufQ5h2geLvMPaVLZo7wu4plB8dO2pO0O1IN6z7L-DOVBQqP_GSM-qbNUd6p_KadEWmRZZyJbhMUEr8GUFGHU/s1600/ulele+sign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVutRwTcaOWWQhWpBbluZFhx8ptLhxd1IAA8NrB1H8mQ8isBN7EkiMaWufQ5h2geLvMPaVLZo7wu4plB8dO2pO0O1IN6z7L-DOVBQqP_GSM-qbNUd6p_KadEWmRZZyJbhMUEr8GUFGHU/s320/ulele+sign.JPG" width="320" height="240" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a></div>
Our hungry group headed over to Tampa Heights to check out Ulele, a very cool restaurant that opened to great reviews and long waits for reservations in 2014. The brainchild of the Gonzmart family of Columbia Restaurant fame, this converted Water Works factory offers great views of the Hillsborough River. The building was restored beautifully with a mix of industrial and modern art and sculptures, many from the Gonzmarts’ private collection and some commissioned just for Ulele. With seating on two floors and an outdoor bar and tables, it can accommodate huge crowds which when combined with the high ceilings accounts for Ulele’s one negative – the noise. However, if you can score a table upstairs you’ll find it a little quieter.
<blockquote></blockquote>The menu offers a fusion of Native American cuisine and multicultural influences using items indigenous to the area.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWuLaMxasgi3vLw2gjyrx2q2iwBZJlXHWt6PzoQyEERQFdl-c05n2XwdmprkTb-lzp37yR1Cu51KvUoxAmX7GScFGc0SSiJSmlm3X1I6RSqYwo5ehmeGwfbYL5jD79kxWr6Gm8fvhyphenhyphenWc/s1600/duck+mj.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWuLaMxasgi3vLw2gjyrx2q2iwBZJlXHWt6PzoQyEERQFdl-c05n2XwdmprkTb-lzp37yR1Cu51KvUoxAmX7GScFGc0SSiJSmlm3X1I6RSqYwo5ehmeGwfbYL5jD79kxWr6Gm8fvhyphenhyphenWc/s200/duck+mj.JPG" width="200" height="150" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVuU1F07ljw7Umgo5lS2wIiNXX4R2IL7ZBS5uFjptZvKh8NtB_rutsWdzsB8R-p085GTmLsq80dVgtKyM3_dOUFJJtCVa_cX7d_ZU6hw1twusZlzdNfpp0l2dvhw9qbxNW2yCFm2Qk54/s1600/porkshankAJ.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVuU1F07ljw7Umgo5lS2wIiNXX4R2IL7ZBS5uFjptZvKh8NtB_rutsWdzsB8R-p085GTmLsq80dVgtKyM3_dOUFJJtCVa_cX7d_ZU6hw1twusZlzdNfpp0l2dvhw9qbxNW2yCFm2Qk54/s200/porkshankAJ.JPG" width="200" height="150" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>I ordered the “Chief Red Eagle” Duck made with a port wine orange marmalade and in my usual corny spirit comically ducked when the waiter brought it to the table. (groans all around) I haven’t had duck in about 40 years and following Chef’s suggestion wisely asked for medium to well done. It came with Mashed Potatoes and Spinach sautéed with garlic and while I absolutely loved the duck and the spinach, the mashed potatoes were thick and cold. But what stood out for me was my Roasted Beets & Poached Pear appetizer with a balsamic charred red onion, whipped goat cheese, blackberry honey gastrique, toasted almonds and watercress. As I'm writing this my mouth is watering and I will definitely order this next time.
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<blockquote></blockquote>Hubby had the Crackling Pork Shank served with Wild Rice and Green Beans and he enjoyed every bit of it. Kathy went for the Water Works Meatloaf which was served as thin slices similar to Salisbury Steak and served with Popcorn Mashed Potatoes – yes you heard me right, Popcorn and Mashed Potatoes. Weird but delicious and an obvious nod to the Native American corn - it was very good.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtq0S9ccHvvRlW8kUIc9NaLiKX0iSfAhjfNP2YLSURJ16Te-AFFFcsKFAlOf44V53ZeNH9LDy_jsyMiaZO9RkY59VYEEpP1XDSrBhhWrBO9Iq_xF3ygj2KjJIVJ2IEQOCSkwQgZP4rlqg/s1600/porkchopRay.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtq0S9ccHvvRlW8kUIc9NaLiKX0iSfAhjfNP2YLSURJ16Te-AFFFcsKFAlOf44V53ZeNH9LDy_jsyMiaZO9RkY59VYEEpP1XDSrBhhWrBO9Iq_xF3ygj2KjJIVJ2IEQOCSkwQgZP4rlqg/s200/porkchopRay.JPG" width="200" height="150" data-original-width="960" data-original-height="720" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>Hollie ordered the 3 Sisters Stuffed Portabello and it was not only delicious but plentiful enough to take half home to enjoy another day. We followed dinner with a little stroll on the River Walk and it was a brilliant evening - gorgeous views and a lively energy from the crowds enjoying the outdoor seating on this balmy night. We'll be back to Ulele for sure. A great place to bring out of town visitors or your ladies' lunch club.
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.ulele.com/
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-64298951177904417492017-02-27T10:36:00.001-08:002017-02-27T10:36:59.461-08:00Bernini's, Ybor City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoaHr1knGeKobJkEv3ZGAezJGCJM9BiKLVEjZxKcovx2rZ2OJpEgEfk5qhDy-nXXLhkw6x3xkTWGgy1LX7YHYavAi3oIpHX_81K4I7B_-jYv71HMLHA1oHgxfz7fmMI9KAkXEa0drpLjk/s1600/bernini+front+and+martini.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoaHr1knGeKobJkEv3ZGAezJGCJM9BiKLVEjZxKcovx2rZ2OJpEgEfk5qhDy-nXXLhkw6x3xkTWGgy1LX7YHYavAi3oIpHX_81K4I7B_-jYv71HMLHA1oHgxfz7fmMI9KAkXEa0drpLjk/s400/bernini+front+and+martini.JPG" width="400" height="300" /></a></div>
A lemon drop martini and dinner at Bernini's was a great way to start off our Great Escape. As part of our "Restaurants Revisited" theme, this year we're picking out some old favorites to see if they still measure up to our first experience. Bernini's gets a somewhat mixed review not for the food which was excellent, but for the other things that can make or break an evening out.
My lemon drop martini was served in a stainless steel glass which I found quite interesting - a good way to keep it cold. But I was disappointed that it had no lemon garnish so the one you see pictured here came out of my water glass. It's the little things you know?
<blockquote></blockquote>We had made our reservation more than a week in advance knowing what a busy place this is. When our party of 8 arrived they led us to a table on the main floor that literally had 6" of room all around it with people pushing past from the bar and diners knocking knees on the other side. We politely but firmly declined and noticing a free 8 top by the door simply said we're taking that one. Once seated comfortably the service was pretty good and very friendly. Our food came in a reasonable time frame and we were all happy with our meals. I had the Arugula/Pear Salad and the Lamb Lolipops which were delicious and 'peared' beautifully (forgive me).
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUL0JSAy_TqWu4OYwOgbxG_Yz1jn7F5AMWasM0BUK_ifUHKxd_OVXMtIPTNIHtwY0eSzjODUNixvpm01oxGOk69vD1wp-I4aD3hAGExGv1vdlNC1EQ59465bKzO435OCUSvbGm1lCmEfM/s1600/arugula+lamb+mj.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUL0JSAy_TqWu4OYwOgbxG_Yz1jn7F5AMWasM0BUK_ifUHKxd_OVXMtIPTNIHtwY0eSzjODUNixvpm01oxGOk69vD1wp-I4aD3hAGExGv1vdlNC1EQ59465bKzO435OCUSvbGm1lCmEfM/s200/arugula+lamb+mj.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnIDdLly3RPd44qMVaPslAHxCC2oVYWi1bnjchZjslFLASS-21KH9iRfUQNP2FgUiD-8v-IY_2bWAL9mxJ9wMAG46olZciXeHBf102-naR-dYinu6U09gFgVxA3ypNOwYopgcnBWnFmA/s1600/italian+dishes.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnIDdLly3RPd44qMVaPslAHxCC2oVYWi1bnjchZjslFLASS-21KH9iRfUQNP2FgUiD-8v-IY_2bWAL9mxJ9wMAG46olZciXeHBf102-naR-dYinu6U09gFgVxA3ypNOwYopgcnBWnFmA/s200/italian+dishes.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>For traditional Italian entrees, hubby had the Eggplant Parmesan which didn't measure up to his home made, but in some perverse way he insists on ordering things he knows he can make better (sigh). Ken had the Penne and Sausage and enjoyed it. Cheryl had a simple Linguini tossed with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella - it was light and very pleasing. Having eyed a platter passing to another table nearby, Mike ordered the Lasagna and loved it.
<blockquote></blockquote>The negatives were the noise - the location was once The Bank of Ybor and was built in grand style with lots of marble and high ceilings so it's extremely noisy. And while we could put up with that, we were less than thrilled to learn that the women's room was out of order on a Saturday night. Yikes.
<blockquote></blockquote>We ended the evening with dessert at Jollywood where very tasty Mini Cannolis from Publix were served with Coffee and Espresso along with some Fresh Strawberries. We'll go back to Bernini's for sure, but it will be a weekday evening to avoid the crowds.
<blockquote></blockquote>http://berniniofybor.com
<blockquote></blockquote>1702 E. 7th Ave, Ybor City (Tampa) Florida 33605
<blockquote></blockquote>Reservations highly recommended
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-20236887517071948772017-01-30T07:41:00.001-08:002017-01-31T07:20:28.005-08:00Wheat + Water, Bradenton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKe443PbZZKYaC0fqSraJsn6uwga4rUMzhYzraVrPveOKUjqZhmkfXqS8XykD3n12LjUTGPEhAIixNuv8QxBzcioxX-CrSMBYxOEjAIfd74WR7TcGaWNcq54uOVYdlTYN2ElXWaYpWXts/s1600/wheatwaterlogo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKe443PbZZKYaC0fqSraJsn6uwga4rUMzhYzraVrPveOKUjqZhmkfXqS8XykD3n12LjUTGPEhAIixNuv8QxBzcioxX-CrSMBYxOEjAIfd74WR7TcGaWNcq54uOVYdlTYN2ElXWaYpWXts/s320/wheatwaterlogo.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>
The first thing that hits you when you walk into Wheat and Water is the aroma of something wonderful happening in the kitchen. The intensity of it put my taste buds on high alert and made my mouth water.
<blockquote></blockquote>The restaurant has a nice ambiance, and they had a full house.
<blockquote></blockquote>We settled in and ordered some classic Italian dishes like Spaghetti and Meatballs or Shrimp Scampi. My Chicken Parmesan was a too generous portion of three cutlets so two came home with me for the next day. The pasta was very good and home made (hence the name Wheat & Water - what you need to make pasta from scratch). I noticed great looking pizza at nearby tables and vow to try one next time.
A couple of us had the Caprino Chicken - Grilled chicken breast, goat cheese, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil with a white wine lemon butter sauce and it was declared delicious.
The service was very good, and we enjoyed a lovely glass of Malbec and their crusty sour dough bread, both perfect accompaniments to the meals.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PKB_GKbm19kF-5dj7O64lW4Y45K_3nA5ICEZLXUj0NUau6BXPTnB4-rAuxGnDbs7g-LM_ZuaD_4U6aICezri1RNtzY-H9cEmYRjFfA8ShyphenhyphenO7wxJ6w9oLLRnmZAYDG5ZHdFeBGCnH31w/s1600/caprino+and+meatballs.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PKB_GKbm19kF-5dj7O64lW4Y45K_3nA5ICEZLXUj0NUau6BXPTnB4-rAuxGnDbs7g-LM_ZuaD_4U6aICezri1RNtzY-H9cEmYRjFfA8ShyphenhyphenO7wxJ6w9oLLRnmZAYDG5ZHdFeBGCnH31w/s200/caprino+and+meatballs.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGJJy3K3q2pev0sjayPbim_Lk8l1I-qH2S_0s6HHXs1NTpBZsWUBW0iDqagFdW9wzgMZ_L6z3tpWlmh1g0Ufl8TfNgvR_kSdH1AnP8Tpmz69mRnqxKzuEEf8wwaLg1WzSjjq6Hw0kkPw/s1600/chickparm+and+scampi.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGJJy3K3q2pev0sjayPbim_Lk8l1I-qH2S_0s6HHXs1NTpBZsWUBW0iDqagFdW9wzgMZ_L6z3tpWlmh1g0Ufl8TfNgvR_kSdH1AnP8Tpmz69mRnqxKzuEEf8wwaLg1WzSjjq6Hw0kkPw/s200/chickparm+and+scampi.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>One person in our group follows a Gluten Free diet and while the menu boasts several GF options, on closer inspection I noted that at least three GF dishes were described as being lightly coated in Italian bread crumbs. Whoa, that's not Gluten Free - so make sure you read that section carefully. I'm guessing you can always ask them to 'hold the bread crumbs'.
<blockquote></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEcrkSp7YCYfwFvPabgfWcQdl-9nOhB_oFtiIUyyBAvtsipYD_VhmY39kORHvriPlogLcFKKnJLrMHruRrvS9mH5d2FrChhGo2wuUTCuABhfDiLe8_wfCJYtCw2Rm1-s4WWsgs_lBguQ/s1600/camauflage+cake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEcrkSp7YCYfwFvPabgfWcQdl-9nOhB_oFtiIUyyBAvtsipYD_VhmY39kORHvriPlogLcFKKnJLrMHruRrvS9mH5d2FrChhGo2wuUTCuABhfDiLe8_wfCJYtCw2Rm1-s4WWsgs_lBguQ/s200/camauflage+cake.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>The evening ended with coffee at Casa Martin and dessert was a Duff Camouflage Cake made by our cake expert Mike. It was quite unusual and of course quite tasty. Duff cake mixes are the brainchild of Celebrity Chef/Baker Duff Goldman who opened his cake decorating studio in West Hollywood in 2015, a place where you could have a cake decorating party and let your imagination run wild. Now my only hope is that after indulging in a slice of 'camouflage' cake the resulting calories will also be camouflaged and not end up on my hips!
<blockquote></blockquote>7303 52nd Place East, Bradenton, Florida (941) 216-3562
<blockquote></blockquote>http://wheatpluswater.com/demo-home/
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-18187508744321460602017-01-10T13:32:00.000-08:002017-01-16T07:58:31.211-08:00Black Rock Bar & Grill, Brandon, FL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgh-9BC3NLv5wf_PMf6hkHvgjIEfPWXGdKzgqVsZb0g_nzvMzNRpApfIkwWZjq-lW2RkkYXzKW4N0MxYCoqJvp40n8XLGytzMqkhUYSchX99m0doEyPEKhhMpXlWYg6AXCFHY_AaiukY/s1600/blackrocklogo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgh-9BC3NLv5wf_PMf6hkHvgjIEfPWXGdKzgqVsZb0g_nzvMzNRpApfIkwWZjq-lW2RkkYXzKW4N0MxYCoqJvp40n8XLGytzMqkhUYSchX99m0doEyPEKhhMpXlWYg6AXCFHY_AaiukY/s200/blackrocklogo.JPG" width="200" height="150"></a></div>
Date night movie and dinner found us in Brandon looking for something new. You know that feeling when you are just tired of the same old thing. So we took a chance on Black Rock, a restaurant on Providence in the former Mimi's location.
<blockquote></blockquote>They succeeded in transforming Mimi's warm cozy atmosphere into a rather cool dark club with lots of televisions that I rather object to. Multiple TV's are for a sports bar and I think they set the wrong tone here.
<blockquote></blockquote>They're pushing a new concept of cooking your meat at the table on a 755 degree hot rock. We didn't feel that adventurous so we stuck to the traditional menu, starting with an order of Mussels that was very good. It was kept hot in its dish sitting atop a hot rock so we did get a bit of the trendy experience.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJgwupUqyYoweDXHEZA7Eh1Kkw4HJMoiXVq05sCbq3UsFIpVnqMBn8wTWcbU6fR62jUQ-bwJZS0hhvba24tyHTBsUL60duFreQfgb3HLIN_I2O5VeOpY3Hd5IE-IVeHmrLIEcOyCgJTU/s1600/muscles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJgwupUqyYoweDXHEZA7Eh1Kkw4HJMoiXVq05sCbq3UsFIpVnqMBn8wTWcbU6fR62jUQ-bwJZS0hhvba24tyHTBsUL60duFreQfgb3HLIN_I2O5VeOpY3Hd5IE-IVeHmrLIEcOyCgJTU/s200/muscles.JPG" width="200" height="150"></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>I ordered a potato encrusted Red Snapper served over mashed potatoes with green beans. It was delicious however they were too heavy handed with the topping of fire roasted tomatoes and I just pushed them off to the side. Something else I had to push off to the side was a rather large shrub of sage that adorned the top of my fish. As an avid fan of cooking shows like Top Chef and Chopped, I have learned that if you can't eat it, don't put it on the plate. Here is the offending plant and as you can see I am not exaggerating. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgxArcdfx91tfnsJMUGYHrgeAcUvMEj7pWtsqG-f89FLsjPnACOyMs19oK5krrfWvtIZ_BE_-RsfXCImW9UOAxcELRoyWbB7D7PWk96goaKqerW9bwaURsu5Lb59XYxAnP7PlHaeqIpA/s1600/sage+garnish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgxArcdfx91tfnsJMUGYHrgeAcUvMEj7pWtsqG-f89FLsjPnACOyMs19oK5krrfWvtIZ_BE_-RsfXCImW9UOAxcELRoyWbB7D7PWk96goaKqerW9bwaURsu5Lb59XYxAnP7PlHaeqIpA/s200/sage+garnish.JPG" width="200" height="150"></a></div>
Hubby had a Shrimp Po Boy that was disappointing. I watched nearby tables as waiters ceremoniously rolled a cart and delivered their hot 'rock' and a slab of beef that looked like a filet mignon. Diners were instructed to carve bits of meat from the huge slab so they could cook quickly. To tell you the truth I wasn't impressed. It looked like a gimmick that I felt risked getting an uneven cook on your meal. For the rather high priced menu I would expect the chef to cook it for me. What would one do if the meat didn't come out right? Complain to oneself?
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiysPu-psA8a8AamWbq_GqeeJOc16je-KdVWaUAkXG9ioaWTUCv6cliC3qmY25J4mdNAs0Mu-01JZu1-wrMx9rU3G1kKU_jt6nhMwZXXjfeQwRdgHOdldZbBc6qrxylI6aLv7dzcWgwvMk/s1600/shrimp+poboy.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiysPu-psA8a8AamWbq_GqeeJOc16je-KdVWaUAkXG9ioaWTUCv6cliC3qmY25J4mdNAs0Mu-01JZu1-wrMx9rU3G1kKU_jt6nhMwZXXjfeQwRdgHOdldZbBc6qrxylI6aLv7dzcWgwvMk/s200/shrimp+poboy.JPG" width="200" height="150"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepb_fcEQvQtzfzpudZaZ36B4NDCAFqkQjgHWLFPzJqJPuL1S1veT2VmxGHyTYtBgv5m5_aEmcEqdO43IizFNy0Y6XDlktRYyeaBeUm_P40MlFv8Yyt028_jtAqiRls3NGwmYU7-AHyns/s1600/snapper+dish.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepb_fcEQvQtzfzpudZaZ36B4NDCAFqkQjgHWLFPzJqJPuL1S1veT2VmxGHyTYtBgv5m5_aEmcEqdO43IizFNy0Y6XDlktRYyeaBeUm_P40MlFv8Yyt028_jtAqiRls3NGwmYU7-AHyns/s200/snapper+dish.JPG" width="200" height="150"></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>On the bright side, I enjoyed a fabulous glass of Malbec "Terrazas Alto de Plato" and I vow to hunt it down and stock my wine rack at home.
<blockquote></blockquote>www.blackrockrestaurants.com
<blockquote></blockquote>804 Providence Rd, Brandon, FL <a dir="ltr" href="tel:33511%20813" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1">33511 813</a>) <a dir="ltr" href="tel:445-4111" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="2">445-4111</a>
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<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/black-rock-bar-grill-brandon-valrico" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Black Rock Bar & Grill, Brandon / Valrico and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Black Rock Bar & Grill Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/18296673/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a> Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-34330219596809027772016-12-12T10:41:00.002-08:002016-12-12T10:41:54.766-08:00Riverhouse Reef & Grill, Palmetto, FL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj56TE6Ba9WMf878RL4NXub5w364dldpnGsHTpWWzHvOLtyZNxflFHpdtq77ek0cphJ9sonMISAKK1oCoIwSSk0sLei-oGxy-_Wc6S92uM04q-6Ra-fMLAJzoIfNTwJI7nB6uWuFLTV5mA/s1600/RiverhouseLogo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj56TE6Ba9WMf878RL4NXub5w364dldpnGsHTpWWzHvOLtyZNxflFHpdtq77ek0cphJ9sonMISAKK1oCoIwSSk0sLei-oGxy-_Wc6S92uM04q-6Ra-fMLAJzoIfNTwJI7nB6uWuFLTV5mA/s400/RiverhouseLogo.JPG" width="400" height="214" /></a></div>
With a view of the marina on the water's edge, Riverhouse was the perfect spot for my book club to enjoy getting together for lunch. The Book Ends have been reading together for ten years and although several years ago we put a ban on bringing food to meetings, we make sure to dine out a few times a year.
<blockquote></blockquote>I indulged in a delicious Bloody Mary to pair with my AHI Tuna BLT - crisp bacon topped with a very generous portion of Ahi Tuna slices, with Lettuce & Tomato on a Brioche bun, and served with their home made chips. We all tried something different....Crab Cake Sliders, Lobster Pot Pie, Coconut Shrimp, Chicken Salad. The only complaint we had was that the Lobster Pot Pie wasn't quite as expected, just okay.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9xDTU9geomrV0T9_JzNggbSJ2UVDKho3XFMpeiwwj4-4crymgtBlcvP7_JRCH3CsV8xEf8KRZOmZy-mzvrbo1jGNJj93dCNdd4Iee8LhUAwjBctvpdjRSOdbh_FcP-m91M0p0k_h8nA/s1600/AhiBLT.jpeg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9xDTU9geomrV0T9_JzNggbSJ2UVDKho3XFMpeiwwj4-4crymgtBlcvP7_JRCH3CsV8xEf8KRZOmZy-mzvrbo1jGNJj93dCNdd4Iee8LhUAwjBctvpdjRSOdbh_FcP-m91M0p0k_h8nA/s200/AhiBLT.jpeg" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqiYga5RpBA1hls-cyru_TjW0G3_AVs0FmvuvlvPPb9ueIc5YWAo5LzKC327nQl_geVT3Kn5lAGE0J4QiORIdgrZT6UIokGVblO3OZihUzGwNmj2fooadyVCFQArlHqziDQ5gpoPaXMw/s1600/ChickenSalad.jpeg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqiYga5RpBA1hls-cyru_TjW0G3_AVs0FmvuvlvPPb9ueIc5YWAo5LzKC327nQl_geVT3Kn5lAGE0J4QiORIdgrZT6UIokGVblO3OZihUzGwNmj2fooadyVCFQArlHqziDQ5gpoPaXMw/s200/ChickenSalad.jpeg" width="150" height="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7dK__nAp2WqQE-_JbEyBnpGp613-vxS1moREv8trhM51bBRKrSZSnUwgv5NjHZwgUzIDdlrk8_JCtg-4u7Nw7Xb-sSHZ1bkL7wbV_pRztLA8IJrmH_xygoNwHO5pCgwdQCU32LZe4DQ/s1600/CrabCakeSliders.jpeg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7dK__nAp2WqQE-_JbEyBnpGp613-vxS1moREv8trhM51bBRKrSZSnUwgv5NjHZwgUzIDdlrk8_JCtg-4u7Nw7Xb-sSHZ1bkL7wbV_pRztLA8IJrmH_xygoNwHO5pCgwdQCU32LZe4DQ/s200/CrabCakeSliders.jpeg" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7DbWclAIbXPu2jbpln2fxnEV1XJlJK2vNDZLyQhtDG8kXJO67seIs-X68Mj3hevT6nAcfntyBfPRucfvn_rmKMDP7usqj23016ACe_6LUZ3Pm0o_1UqDXKpO4TFR9xYhorEqkjcuwWQ/s1600/LobsterPotPie.jpeg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7DbWclAIbXPu2jbpln2fxnEV1XJlJK2vNDZLyQhtDG8kXJO67seIs-X68Mj3hevT6nAcfntyBfPRucfvn_rmKMDP7usqj23016ACe_6LUZ3Pm0o_1UqDXKpO4TFR9xYhorEqkjcuwWQ/s200/LobsterPotPie.jpeg" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>I give River House high marks for food, service and ambiance. A nice touch is the trolley they provide that carries you from the parking lot to the restaurant across the marina's boardwalk. You might want to ride it on the way in but walk back to burn off some calories and enjoy the views.
<blockquote></blockquote>I'll be back soon and often.
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.riverhousereefandgrill.com/
<blockquote></blockquote>995 Riverside Drive, Palmetto FL 34221
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/riverhouse-reef-grill-palmetto" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Riverhouse Reef & Grill, Palmetto and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Riverhouse Reef & Grill Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17100024/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote><a title="View Michelle Jolly's food journey on Zomato!" href="https://www.zomato.com/thegreatescape"><img alt="View my food journey on Zomato!" src="https://www.zomato.com/widgets/user_widget_img.php?type=blogrank&city_id=604&user_id=23097347"></a>Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-34105826009710077952016-10-25T10:40:00.001-07:002016-10-25T10:40:18.920-07:00Sunday Brunch at Bonefish Grill, Brandon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Cn9a0r6pO5ZBTwdB8Cf6XZ-8IcoJ6KuS2a3m9aQG4aQtN-jAXIAOuwQVzvrM7jox89NhAPYCwcwJlOQGO4jqU6JxW3yGDUoH9i-38huaP0zWbnzgp6yZsnu5zt-cUZP91PZ8_kFSB4M/s1600/logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Cn9a0r6pO5ZBTwdB8Cf6XZ-8IcoJ6KuS2a3m9aQG4aQtN-jAXIAOuwQVzvrM7jox89NhAPYCwcwJlOQGO4jqU6JxW3yGDUoH9i-38huaP0zWbnzgp6yZsnu5zt-cUZP91PZ8_kFSB4M/s200/logo.jpg" width="200" height="133" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>My cousin Grace threw herself a birthday brunch bash at Bonefish Grill in Brandon - our very favorite restaurant. The family gathered around and celebrated her while we indulged in some delicious food. This was our first time trying their Sunday Brunch and it was fabulous. Especially the Unlimited Bubbles - I chose the Bellini which was so tasty I was smacking my lips. I had three! (Don't judge me)
Bonefish Grill Brandon has recently undergone a major overhaul and transformed their already lovely restaurant by kicking it up a notch. New kitchen, new furnishings, newly defined areas with some really lovely architectural details. A bar that emits a warm glow of welcome and a new outdoor dining space. Robert Hayman, their resident concierge has become a friend. He is gracious, cares about the customer experience, and does his best to make you feel welcome. Perhaps it's his butler training that makes him eminently qualified to excel at his job.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoiI6n69TUWWr2ltlzGobM0T_AHMOp0GxCDDNhTzFIPgX7vovpUsUDe5QU1ZnFIB09H1e5_wFQ-gMTj0bR7zQ4ExfuMdv-K9ezN3Ko5aMV8CfkfbEEXowXlgLqIKcF9eqerhshtQgsG4/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoiI6n69TUWWr2ltlzGobM0T_AHMOp0GxCDDNhTzFIPgX7vovpUsUDe5QU1ZnFIB09H1e5_wFQ-gMTj0bR7zQ4ExfuMdv-K9ezN3Ko5aMV8CfkfbEEXowXlgLqIKcF9eqerhshtQgsG4/s640/Slide4.JPG" width="480" height="640" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>The brunch menu offers a wide array of luscious meals. Mike and I had the Surf & Turf Eggs Benedict (Filet Mignon Tips topped with a generous amount of Lobster meat and then topped with a perfectly cooked egg and Hollandaise Sauce). The Kobe Burgers were declared 'best I ever ate' by Martha & Rick. Hubby went for the Scallops and ate every scrap. The Fish N Chips Aida ordered was a massive dish and half went home to enjoy later. Howard opted for the Creme Brulee French Toast and enjoyed it very much. Of course there was dessert! Creme Brulee, Jamaican Rum Coconut Custard Pie, and Brownie with Ice Cream.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xZeyex9AtEp40wZSp82Alz3PSQ0LIC-w2rcqb89Clled56HJ3jfUlbMMbCujYAuGJOTID3rn_MkjwjEiLhzcaLessJVzmyDt6VPgiMQ4KNTtQgc6hstf5GPNZs-3NkHjh2yOJBy6yRE/s1600/Slide6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xZeyex9AtEp40wZSp82Alz3PSQ0LIC-w2rcqb89Clled56HJ3jfUlbMMbCujYAuGJOTID3rn_MkjwjEiLhzcaLessJVzmyDt6VPgiMQ4KNTtQgc6hstf5GPNZs-3NkHjh2yOJBy6yRE/s200/Slide6.JPG" width="150" height="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0B4eJriWOWvc55YuqFich1jZE6Yfpe9793vhyphenhyphenEOwu3cPI4Vwrvv6ymLx4ftzHhtBblcX14DNtnT0wWFpPzdjAeo766uwo_bGj2DCc6KZF5Q8d-OsNTzUhJ9GcQ8Qn8luNhzys5p3SFik/s1600/Slide5.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0B4eJriWOWvc55YuqFich1jZE6Yfpe9793vhyphenhyphenEOwu3cPI4Vwrvv6ymLx4ftzHhtBblcX14DNtnT0wWFpPzdjAeo766uwo_bGj2DCc6KZF5Q8d-OsNTzUhJ9GcQ8Qn8luNhzys5p3SFik/s200/Slide5.JPG" width="150" height="200" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrvpZ4JRNe32N67h9-5C3RHVA0V0kV2C9Oi20WzhA6J0zhB_Z150N30WHi3avc_GpEcfXW7iPtXSUBo-gdz_Fcqywtdly8wesNpwVIEalJGjpZs-YPj48-tTMuQNwomIEDIuRPkxvSvDU/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrvpZ4JRNe32N67h9-5C3RHVA0V0kV2C9Oi20WzhA6J0zhB_Z150N30WHi3avc_GpEcfXW7iPtXSUBo-gdz_Fcqywtdly8wesNpwVIEalJGjpZs-YPj48-tTMuQNwomIEDIuRPkxvSvDU/s200/Slide2.JPG" width="150" height="200" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>Bonefish Grill has everything we want. Great food, impeccable service, beautiful ambiance. Managing Partner Emin Hadziosmanovic also stopped by to greet us and make sure we were being well taken care of. We assured him all was very well. It's become "Our Place" and we'll be back often. Thanks again to our gracious birthday girl for this special treat.
<blockquote></blockquote>https://www.bonefishgrill.com/locations/fl/brandon
<blockquote></blockquote>1015 Providence Road, Brandon, FL 33511
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/bonefish-grill-brandon-valrico" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Bonefish Grill, Brandon / Valrico and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank"><img alt="Bonefish Grill Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17092416/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;"></a>
<a title="View Michelle Jolly's food journey on Zomato!" href="https://www.zomato.com/thegreatescape"><img alt="View my food journey on Zomato!" src="https://www.zomato.com/widgets/user_widget_img.php?type=blogrank&city_id=604&user_id=23097347"></a>Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-56197358726052715062016-10-24T13:29:00.001-07:002016-10-24T13:29:54.524-07:00Ciccio Cali, Riverview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_oEm3FHMpqmb4UaBdNjzFvN_DqrIGcMH4bh03PDAw44J-GvZDkY9MiDn-AtxavxFbBBawXwuuwCr_VDNOpO0fbTNheDBFybEDYj1KvE-PDPwelpb1np4UW-HJkfxmD_EHNvnooPmfPUM/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_oEm3FHMpqmb4UaBdNjzFvN_DqrIGcMH4bh03PDAw44J-GvZDkY9MiDn-AtxavxFbBBawXwuuwCr_VDNOpO0fbTNheDBFybEDYj1KvE-PDPwelpb1np4UW-HJkfxmD_EHNvnooPmfPUM/s320/Slide2.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>
<b><blockquote></blockquote>Ciccio Cali - Bowl Culture</b> <blockquote></blockquote>It was Girls Night Out and we headed over to Ciccio Cali thinking that it would be like the Ciccio Water we tried a couple years ago in Tampa. But they are different in many ways. Ciccio Cali is light and airy, almost cafeteria like but a cool and modern cafeteria with a European flair for the minimal. It took us a while to study the menu but once we figured it out we all decided to immerse ourselves in BOWL CULTURE and it was terrific.
<blockquote></blockquote>I had the Tuna Poke, Seared rare ahi tuna with fresh minced ginger, cilantro, jicama and cucumber topped with yuzu tobikko, sesame seeds and spicy rayu ponzu sauce. I wisely asked for the ponzu sauce on the side cause I'm a lightweight when it comes to spicy and the dish had just enough heat without it.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbLGF4rnE5eCGR2taHIECZlqoJMEWrSvaGi1E5f_wG0V39C5hhEL2iwZWyfbJVkJ8mdpBDPzWUGgMFrZ6mdcbFPFg-WEYgRcuo1tKlnLmYLqoo_Wn113x7FVIp0k3Jq_cc611t1_i470/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbLGF4rnE5eCGR2taHIECZlqoJMEWrSvaGi1E5f_wG0V39C5hhEL2iwZWyfbJVkJ8mdpBDPzWUGgMFrZ6mdcbFPFg-WEYgRcuo1tKlnLmYLqoo_Wn113x7FVIp0k3Jq_cc611t1_i470/s200/Slide4.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzT6g9UpCU6oFZRL-iFKMLcZPnjmFnxuMjJmS6bUgcjTzhD_gqUKEiqNS_h6vb_rx5Be638DvngcNTCskLYTEYUwBqhFYIia5QWm8aLziT1zV8I5c_aVfB0o2B-v8H3q37bAJWClfv5kA/s1600/Slide5.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzT6g9UpCU6oFZRL-iFKMLcZPnjmFnxuMjJmS6bUgcjTzhD_gqUKEiqNS_h6vb_rx5Be638DvngcNTCskLYTEYUwBqhFYIia5QWm8aLziT1zV8I5c_aVfB0o2B-v8H3q37bAJWClfv5kA/s200/Slide5.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>HOT & CRUNCHY TUNA
Seared rare ahi tuna, scallions, jicama, avocado and cucumber topped with tempura battered onions, sesame seeds and sriracha aioli.
<blockquote></blockquote><b>BOWL CULTURE</b> - Choose between rice (yellow, sticky, brown), Kale Blend, Spaghetti Squash (+2), Chilled Asian Noodles (+2) / Add more protein (chicken +2, steak +3, tuna +3) OR Go Vegetarian! Sub veggie and broccoli mix (no charge)
<blockquote></blockquote>Pictured here is the Fajita Bowl and the 'Phelps' which featured roasted eggplant, broccoli, chicken, goat cheese over Napa mix and quinoa salad. It was very tasty!
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IOPMZcFqUNSgIC2INYxAWl5Ac6dNCJOmXFNYDgB_DJQWW6DjNyYBrvIXf9-f76H98ZwMMF7q6tlzpaG3RYD_2Zjwn9jvl_8eCMEnyO0zWPBScsxDVfD5Oc5kkFPJLbYqYB2yef8kkcA/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IOPMZcFqUNSgIC2INYxAWl5Ac6dNCJOmXFNYDgB_DJQWW6DjNyYBrvIXf9-f76H98ZwMMF7q6tlzpaG3RYD_2Zjwn9jvl_8eCMEnyO0zWPBScsxDVfD5Oc5kkFPJLbYqYB2yef8kkcA/s200/Slide1.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDoOSlOwz1HV7xuPfJ4KS8-9IhR3Y9d3Xd6jyrtZi9DRBwNcZ-zitpJTXOJTbbmaBIzmQAblbltfkDo0fhE6FwIr6jnQzPNblPk6k4DgsMUifAdcH9F92mMHsm-iSVd5BYvRY_mrq2Cc/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDoOSlOwz1HV7xuPfJ4KS8-9IhR3Y9d3Xd6jyrtZi9DRBwNcZ-zitpJTXOJTbbmaBIzmQAblbltfkDo0fhE6FwIr6jnQzPNblPk6k4DgsMUifAdcH9F92mMHsm-iSVd5BYvRY_mrq2Cc/s200/Slide3.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>All in all a pleasant experience with excellent service. We capped off the night by taking a short walk through the plaza to Starbucks where we sipped decaf cappucino's and watched the fabulous evening sky (Photo credit to Cheryl). We'll definitely be back.
<blockquote></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg__nQ7_qqJTuF7BF3JxPS-YIAjZoOYdUCBMXW_9B1T3VcrOGk7c2sUaVu-GBL6d2gjB-QPPBJlxc4Ooa0wMLXUyd34B7uTDxn6JeKZfAURtDCgQirm9uXvl7kqsJ8LPcrbfhOa3_pekBQ/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg__nQ7_qqJTuF7BF3JxPS-YIAjZoOYdUCBMXW_9B1T3VcrOGk7c2sUaVu-GBL6d2gjB-QPPBJlxc4Ooa0wMLXUyd34B7uTDxn6JeKZfAURtDCgQirm9uXvl7kqsJ8LPcrbfhOa3_pekBQ/s320/Slide1.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>
http://www.cicciocali.com/menu/dinner/
11230 Sullivan St, Riverview, FL 33578
<a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/ciccio-cali-riverview" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Ciccio Cali, Riverview and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Ciccio Cali Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17103830/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-70905910073277333212016-09-04T15:46:00.001-07:002016-09-04T15:46:17.357-07:00MILLER'S BRANDON ALE HOUSE, BRANDON, FL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rrQ1gFfs7dBigygwlSvE65zxf39XmRguDR-Yb_RZWL2BBx1eTwYQiFEEfoLcJPoGzFzHF6Pk9ic9S4GtWZtxUz6O9ootBEnXMWVWIpEHEZ8CQCOLpjV0XegfdEHLj1Z4whQ_mYfiBOY/s1600/brandonale+house+logo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rrQ1gFfs7dBigygwlSvE65zxf39XmRguDR-Yb_RZWL2BBx1eTwYQiFEEfoLcJPoGzFzHF6Pk9ic9S4GtWZtxUz6O9ootBEnXMWVWIpEHEZ8CQCOLpjV0XegfdEHLj1Z4whQ_mYfiBOY/s320/brandonale+house+logo.JPG" width="320" height="267" /></a></div>
<b>OR....THE A B C'S OF DINING OUT!
</b>
<blockquote></blockquote>My original pick <b>PLAN A<i></i></b> this week was <b>Stillwaters Tavern </b>in Downtown St. Pete. After watching Hurricane Weather reports for days we somehow got it into our heads that driving to that neck of the woods was probably not a good idea - wind, rain, flooding, no parking, holiday weekend, etc.
<blockquote></blockquote>So I selected <b>PLAN B<i></i></b> the newly opened <b>Tibby's New Orleans Kitchen</b> in Brandon. Reviews of their other locations were favorable so I had high hopes and gave them a call. They don't take reservations or call aheads "yet" but maybe in the future. So we took a chance and upon arrival we were told it would be a <b>one hour and forty minute wait (GASP) </b>for a table. Naturally we decided not to stay. The place was jumping with enthusiasm and we felt disappointed to be turned away. I have only myself to blame, for what was I thinking trying out a restaurant open only FOUR DAYS in the middle of a holiday weekend!? We'll plan on going back for a late lunch and see what all the fuss is about.
Last minute changes are awkward with a large group but we salvaged the night by going to the nearby <b>Miller's Brandon Ale House PLAN C</b> . There we were greeted warmly and seated quickly (I guess everyone else in Brandon was standing on line at Tibby's!).
<blockquote></blockquote><b><b>Brandon Ale House </b></b>offers typical pub food with some surprising twists on their menu like Cajun Chicken and Jambalaya (I'm guessing these would likely pale in comparison to the new place down the block). We settled in for burgers or ribs or cobb salads and hubby bravely went for the Osso Buco - something else you wouldn't expect on a pub menu (pictured here with some disturbing plating techniques don't you think?) It was all okay but nothing exciting. A safe port in the storm.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws44rvy6lWhGFyPXgVFKyX-r90-vEBRcM-meutaSBQPPw_SUsq3RdTiek8g5KocjJnbiMkI7IQHDSsMmaASbUjhopv_B8EOoQKOpc3laE272HWk679wQg4tX-rOYl-NJRrcsE2U2rMxY/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgws44rvy6lWhGFyPXgVFKyX-r90-vEBRcM-meutaSBQPPw_SUsq3RdTiek8g5KocjJnbiMkI7IQHDSsMmaASbUjhopv_B8EOoQKOpc3laE272HWk679wQg4tX-rOYl-NJRrcsE2U2rMxY/s200/Slide1.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPJ5qiqNFTm2xgaebMiJEcdbrLAk1ua-3IWL25Y__MAp-QU9-e1ZjDjTnmAq1RnDSicL0uCZbyAbUBEJvsqCoBriWRsbZSATit2__2Xgxb5JYW4CgJFgGhTd7h_d9-Zl0IbxBAku-2lA/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPJ5qiqNFTm2xgaebMiJEcdbrLAk1ua-3IWL25Y__MAp-QU9-e1ZjDjTnmAq1RnDSicL0uCZbyAbUBEJvsqCoBriWRsbZSATit2__2Xgxb5JYW4CgJFgGhTd7h_d9-Zl0IbxBAku-2lA/s200/Slide1.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>Dessert at our house was also a <b>PLAN B</b> in that I'd asked hubby to pick up a Pecan Pie to go along with the Cajun theme but Publix didn't have any so he selected one of their very yummy apple pies. Still, it wasn't Cajun - but then again, neither was our meal. It just shows you that you need to remain flexible and go with the flow and keep a sense of humor - especially when the sun had come out to mock me and my original concerns to avoid St. Pete. Stay tuned for reviews of PLANS A & B because I'm determined to go sometime soon.
<blockquote></blockquote><b>Brandon Ale House</b>
1817 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 / 813-643-0511
www.millersalehouse.com/location/brandon-ale-house
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/millers-ale-house-restaurants-brandon-valrico" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Miller's Ale House Restaurants, Brandon / Valrico and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Miller's Ale House Restaurants Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17092467/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-48670252278074963742016-08-09T11:40:00.000-07:002016-08-09T11:40:32.445-07:00The Moon Under Water, St. Pete<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQjEpsPwLjbGCntklzsbD6DOcm_It7GeZV55e9PsbllytjFadEgcriRs-FEGsi2QDQ8zVQe4BzyKFBqv5xhwWWCFeLGF023XCaxYkTDhqh0GgNTOiL_KE4MxfW8XiBJmvkRm6aiwAtcNc/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQjEpsPwLjbGCntklzsbD6DOcm_It7GeZV55e9PsbllytjFadEgcriRs-FEGsi2QDQ8zVQe4BzyKFBqv5xhwWWCFeLGF023XCaxYkTDhqh0GgNTOiL_KE4MxfW8XiBJmvkRm6aiwAtcNc/s320/Slide4.JPG" width="320" height="240" /></a></div>
It's been years since I've been to an English Pub and I was lucky enough to visit a few in London so I can spot an authentic one when I see it. The Moon Under Water hits all the right notes for ambiance, and it has a pretty cool story to it's name. It refers to the trickery employed by 18th Century Recruiting Sergeants who would drop a Queen's shilling into the tankard of ale of some unsuspecting drunk while he wasn't looking. When the unwitting fellow got to the bottom and saw the shilling, that meant he was conscripted into the British Army because he'd 'accepted' the shilling. Thus the glass bottomed tankard was invented to allow a bloke to look under his mug and see the offending coin and thereby avoid drinking it. The sight of the shilling under water and the foam above became known as "The Moon Under Water."
<blockquote></blockquote>The menu has something for everyone's taste and our party of eight enjoyed a variety of goodies. I had the Chicken Pot Pie and while it was tasty, I didn't much care for the gravy that held it all together as it was a little too thick. Several of our group had the Fish and Chips and all declared it a winner.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hGsJbQaZTEVF6QH8flM-tbgpFc7MCVUtZmNenZR51BddLSLYAoDMrn0Dxjrq-_sk02r0JvFJptbkSHkLCZC163tMlO6GL6fUQlXHawpKT-8I9LjJi2hiGqJNYvUHGRGLQDEGSbByatA/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hGsJbQaZTEVF6QH8flM-tbgpFc7MCVUtZmNenZR51BddLSLYAoDMrn0Dxjrq-_sk02r0JvFJptbkSHkLCZC163tMlO6GL6fUQlXHawpKT-8I9LjJi2hiGqJNYvUHGRGLQDEGSbByatA/s200/Slide1.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDohuPgUR3U7BTmmEUllLS55_Uod3Q1hJpTH8KeBLj7fFAUWOn3xictkOtoyp8GKeKKvtJCDgH34F9OmvyVr6zastHkdWBBHKyd_97vhEYMXg9ovtRVlrv2xOn21OkUyI1Bcw2Tc8AlMY/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDohuPgUR3U7BTmmEUllLS55_Uod3Q1hJpTH8KeBLj7fFAUWOn3xictkOtoyp8GKeKKvtJCDgH34F9OmvyVr6zastHkdWBBHKyd_97vhEYMXg9ovtRVlrv2xOn21OkUyI1Bcw2Tc8AlMY/s200/Slide2.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>The servings were huge. Kathy had The Moon Cobb Salad, an extremely large portion that she fully enjoyed and still took some home for lunch the next day. Hollie had the Tandoori Chicken and some Chick Pea Naan type of bread and it looked amazing as well as tasting delicious. Hmmmm, I think I'll order that next time or better yet just let Hollie order for me. Ever wonder why there'd be Indian food on a British Pub menu? It dates back to the British colonization and the lucrative spice trade which introduced these flavors to English society. An 1852 cookbook stated 'few dinners are thought complete unless at least one curry is on the table". <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2jv2zZXJvQm0kbWv5JWC8BuZWoPGJQP9w9oUZjLmr52eiIPir7kXx0u5iLlOSklGzWRCeYL-3GI7O-9hEwTNxE6GRNgLbKiCgZxg-msdJ9QktZzLB6PhyphenhyphenANZWWnJolUg6Bj8Fat4644/s1600/Slide5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2jv2zZXJvQm0kbWv5JWC8BuZWoPGJQP9w9oUZjLmr52eiIPir7kXx0u5iLlOSklGzWRCeYL-3GI7O-9hEwTNxE6GRNgLbKiCgZxg-msdJ9QktZzLB6PhyphenhyphenANZWWnJolUg6Bj8Fat4644/s200/Slide5.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>Cheryl and I washed it all down with a delicious Malbec wine that went down very smooth. So the whole experience was lovely except for an unapologetic waiter who didn't seem to like that hubby complained that his salad and meal were brought together. We dine out quite often and it is customary for one's salad course to be served first. So when hubby objected and said he didn't want the salad anymore our waiter seemed to blame HIM for the confusion instead of just apologizing for the misunderstanding. Bad form.
Dessert and coffee at the Kaplans finished off the evening with shared stories and laughter, the best digestive. We were already planning our next "Escape" so stay tuned for more delicious stories.
<blockquote></blockquote>332 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
<blockquote></blockquote>www.themoonunderwater.com
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/the-moon-under-water-st-petersburg" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about The Moon Under Water, Downtown St Petersburg and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="The Moon Under Water Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17095222/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-29007063647444942282016-07-31T08:05:00.000-07:002016-07-31T08:05:52.149-07:00MI CASA, Apollo Beach, FL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLbD1VxJGPYYWBALxLchuxlYQE5OcMbMwE_PHoA88fZ4c7RlOhMTZg-TpwkdS16MNdjBzLueraNI8U_PDQinqug9Kzp_oo2ScvIFQBrbCqfloNKD60IfFrAboIBJLOgrmrgw9othE36s/s1600/exterior+logo+cropped.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLbD1VxJGPYYWBALxLchuxlYQE5OcMbMwE_PHoA88fZ4c7RlOhMTZg-TpwkdS16MNdjBzLueraNI8U_PDQinqug9Kzp_oo2ScvIFQBrbCqfloNKD60IfFrAboIBJLOgrmrgw9othE36s/s320/exterior+logo+cropped.JPG" width="320" height="136" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>MI CASA ES SU CASA......(My house is your house)
These are words I heard often growing up as my mom welcomed everyone to our home with arms open wide and no judgments, just love.
Last night we dined at this authentic Mexican restaurant and it was a winner. It had been quite a while since we'd been here. I don't know about you but sometimes a perfectly good restaurant will fall off your radar for a time, especially when there are so many good dining options out there.
<blockquote></blockquote>We were happy to be back again enjoying good food, pleasant service and beautiful décor. I love the chairs here! They create such a warm and happy atmosphere and of course they're sturdy and comfy.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFDPtrTE89EZzTtuNnVkTDzUfrafgUCfzopEXXSsEWdXkb9IuIPJ9TAamUVJwrVNGgUViNeodFPfS8JUEXYWf5zlPy1uzTIl7_LvnRaB7TRwWNo9hv6Se4zLXPnInYGJ4NA0iGmWaiDIo/s1600/chairs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFDPtrTE89EZzTtuNnVkTDzUfrafgUCfzopEXXSsEWdXkb9IuIPJ9TAamUVJwrVNGgUViNeodFPfS8JUEXYWf5zlPy1uzTIl7_LvnRaB7TRwWNo9hv6Se4zLXPnInYGJ4NA0iGmWaiDIo/s200/chairs.JPG" width="150" height="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeNRl5I3ApZt2O365pD7bCN9arYbdACoD-zEYPL9cbvOAqlAN9c2QL2Mrru1d6kYFixJZnyh5dwVy6dJoNr6jhiez3o0d681htXU1B8_GjHmiUiccS5AbJQqi1SQ8KVnDoNSc3fPo1Bk/s1600/salsa.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeNRl5I3ApZt2O365pD7bCN9arYbdACoD-zEYPL9cbvOAqlAN9c2QL2Mrru1d6kYFixJZnyh5dwVy6dJoNr6jhiez3o0d681htXU1B8_GjHmiUiccS5AbJQqi1SQ8KVnDoNSc3fPo1Bk/s200/salsa.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>I couldn't believe the line of people waiting to get in, people of all ages, couples, large families - this place was jumping and no wonder...the food was delicious. Cheryl and I indulged in yummy Margarita's that were just the right amount of tart. They were the perfect accompaniment to the toasty warm tortilla chips and salsa. I loved how they gave each of us our own footed salsa bowl cause I didn't want to share, and besides not sharing meant we could double dip if we pleased. (It's the little things no?)
I had the Chicken Fajitas and they were very good. My only complaint was they were served in three parts - a sizzling platter, a dish piled high with rice, beans, shredded lettuce, guacamole etc...and then my flour tortillas were rolled up in tin foil. I should have had a third plate on which to assemble my fajitas rather than eat out of the foil and drip onto my lap. Mind you that didn't stop me from eating every bite, but I fairly had to be hosed down afterwards.
Hubby had a salad topped with fried shrimp and served in a large taco shell. Cheryl had Fish Tacos, and Ken had Chuleta de Puerco (Pork Chop). He practiced the pronunciation a few times before the waitress came so I'll give him a B+ for trying to sound Latino. Most dishes are served with a side of yellow or white rice and your choice of black or red beans.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9y4iilIYMHOX7GASj1yLNLON0rCTCHFODRHA5wNgyeb0eNheuEayILooFX4EKtGadFSZEY18WqSqzlJtB1lVbLw1-VdkvYlJtk0pi7D_1MssDVUN3WJMfxQUizmB3ZHfWfcGm4VNllQ/s1600/fajita1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9y4iilIYMHOX7GASj1yLNLON0rCTCHFODRHA5wNgyeb0eNheuEayILooFX4EKtGadFSZEY18WqSqzlJtB1lVbLw1-VdkvYlJtk0pi7D_1MssDVUN3WJMfxQUizmB3ZHfWfcGm4VNllQ/s200/fajita1.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1zJ3nm_udMzkNEQ1MYDMEegH3-Ri43_8mVsUHMG4CAXT7FFwprX_JN18-AychFmtlxKvgqu8TyLsUxSER5QDMXZLMQRG2ZkAih5959Dq7RT2sEv2pnonlGEoszIaV_HcoamHPjCD6cE/s1600/shrimp+over+salad+in+taco+shell.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1zJ3nm_udMzkNEQ1MYDMEegH3-Ri43_8mVsUHMG4CAXT7FFwprX_JN18-AychFmtlxKvgqu8TyLsUxSER5QDMXZLMQRG2ZkAih5959Dq7RT2sEv2pnonlGEoszIaV_HcoamHPjCD6cE/s200/shrimp+over+salad+in+taco+shell.JPG" width="200" height="150" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>Let's talk about beans. I grew up in a Puerto Rican household where beans were cooked several times a week but I refused to eat them. It wasn't until I was forty that my Italian husband convinced me to try them and boy did I love them. I could kick myself for all those years I drove my poor mom crazy with my picky eating habits. And while there are subtle differences in cuisine from Puerto Rico, Cuba and Mexico, the black beans are pretty much the same. By now I consider myself somewhat of an expert and in fact hubby declares often that no one cooks black beans better than me. Here's my simple recipe - buy a can of <b>GOYA</b> black beans (and yes, it must be <b>GOYA</b>!) and follow the directions faithfully - but make sure you (A) cook your Sofrito (peppers/onions/garlic) down long enough to develop the flavors and until its very translucent and (B) during the cooking process run the back of your spoon around the pan capturing about a half dozen or so beans and squishing them against the side of the pot - this helps thicken the liquid. Voila (or Ole) perfect beans.
<blockquote></blockquote><b>Nutritional Fact</b>: A 1/2-cup serving of cooked black beans, which is 86 grams, contains 113 calories. With 1.3 calories per gram, black beans are a low-energy-dense food, which means calorie content is low compared to weight. This makes them a more filling food because you can eat a large portion without going overboard on calories
<blockquote></blockquote>micasamexicanrestaurant.com
<blockquote></blockquote>10283 Big Bend Rd, Riverview, FL 33578 · ~4.8 mi
<blockquote></blockquote>(813) 677-6559
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-70938946673972237442016-06-25T14:11:00.001-07:002016-06-25T14:11:36.845-07:00Earl's Rib Palace, Edmond, OK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6jVhgMzlHsViW4yivcrE8HNK7uzVQSaQM1NucA72p-VWUBBD5tiaPLyqFZgC1hxFVqedQaI9HTu9Q5K_WqKZIZbASTy7dm_E_Gt2BAjeA1Kesq3Ny6w5JhsTfdPYjnlyUUIv2Hd9yKo/s1600/EarlsLogo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6jVhgMzlHsViW4yivcrE8HNK7uzVQSaQM1NucA72p-VWUBBD5tiaPLyqFZgC1hxFVqedQaI9HTu9Q5K_WqKZIZbASTy7dm_E_Gt2BAjeA1Kesq3Ny6w5JhsTfdPYjnlyUUIv2Hd9yKo/s320/EarlsLogo.JPG" /></a></div>
The first thing you have to know about Earl's Rib Palace is that Earl's most famous admirer was Elvis Presley! Earl traveled with the King as his personal chef for several years. Earl's food was so good that Elvis gained a whopping 50 pounds during that time. I'd say that was a pretty good endorsement.
We took a lunch break after getting the three penny tour of OKC and I threw down on the chopped brisket sandwich smothered with some real good barbecue sauce and balanced it out with a side salad. I cleaned my plate.....no dieting this week. Tara went for the sliced brisket and loved it (she's been here before!) Now hubby had the same thing but he thought it was dry. The perfect brisket would have some of that luscious fat along the edge and so he missed that.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27sufejRjGcHg2YtJfo7cBY-TypBABl-Uj5WRCibZGnlPD-4A2Uf2TGSM94aQjcEUANIabh2aVYIvU9ezbqh-bvsMEyLKRu25L2R8o6FkOyhP2XCBZnvCbnwnzNLgPbrtXOm4pzcBrw8/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27sufejRjGcHg2YtJfo7cBY-TypBABl-Uj5WRCibZGnlPD-4A2Uf2TGSM94aQjcEUANIabh2aVYIvU9ezbqh-bvsMEyLKRu25L2R8o6FkOyhP2XCBZnvCbnwnzNLgPbrtXOm4pzcBrw8/s200/Slide2.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNxaBMC4AMQCh1Bx8fqNKldREPsLVSAatHbLWwskkMzri17-mDuvSNWvOKisHtEV5y4uccW1okikGn5uz4ihKbbxF6Fyav08fbqPxyAG_qLycFVKSI7Q1GATeBAtLqInR7cwjsCDmzJTE/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNxaBMC4AMQCh1Bx8fqNKldREPsLVSAatHbLWwskkMzri17-mDuvSNWvOKisHtEV5y4uccW1okikGn5uz4ihKbbxF6Fyav08fbqPxyAG_qLycFVKSI7Q1GATeBAtLqInR7cwjsCDmzJTE/s200/Slide3.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>It's a charming place with a friendly, casual atmosphere and kitchy bbq design. Earl's has six locations in Oklahoma and prides itself on knowing how the Okies like their barbecue. Judging by the lunch time crowd I'd say they're right about that.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXbJ4QbwYdkzd6LsjzdRp_R9KLetOb9IrB9IIS48oCfOlaOVRxQXmZK1L5kGPK_dm351UlaPFGm3u7H3op-vTwQc5RSsEvyE4_1TNFP7yrYbi48s8Fhjm393yi2P5vR_JXbmBv5vIZ2WY/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXbJ4QbwYdkzd6LsjzdRp_R9KLetOb9IrB9IIS48oCfOlaOVRxQXmZK1L5kGPK_dm351UlaPFGm3u7H3op-vTwQc5RSsEvyE4_1TNFP7yrYbi48s8Fhjm393yi2P5vR_JXbmBv5vIZ2WY/s200/Slide4.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>Under the heading "it's a small world" Tara was approached by a nice young man who recognized that some six years previously she'd been his teacher at Taft Middle School. Hugs all around and even his parents came forward to meet the teach. We're so proud she's remembered so fondly by her students. Obviously she's an awesome teacher. Emails were exchanged and he shared his plans for college. It was a lovely chance meeting.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAgS9dxdE5t5U76kLP6SJD6U3E71pbbUVWGgoHBznzlqA7aO9WLKRfyIFb3UWlXhvH23wnkoX5NMONQmm5y2rUyWd-Am8A2nbci9XlY7yLbgDJzOFQkw6mqeOHKbt9zBzxFG_utoILVE/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAgS9dxdE5t5U76kLP6SJD6U3E71pbbUVWGgoHBznzlqA7aO9WLKRfyIFb3UWlXhvH23wnkoX5NMONQmm5y2rUyWd-Am8A2nbci9XlY7yLbgDJzOFQkw6mqeOHKbt9zBzxFG_utoILVE/s320/Slide2.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>2121 S Broadway, Edmond, OK 73013
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.earlsribpalace.com/
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/oklahoma-city/earls-rib-palace-edmond" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Earl's Rib Palace, Original Edmond and other Restaurants in Oklahoma City" target="_blank" ><img alt="Earl's Rib Palace Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17187868/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a> Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-65290406742795071862016-06-25T07:55:00.000-07:002016-06-25T07:58:49.927-07:00Boulevard Steak House, Edmond, OK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDreryjgt3Q3ZwoM__WZnYRvizGMxG1JyYWmbJIe05hpk_IHgx9fHho0JbHrpP8edalNv8Komjaa6HOr8FCApKJlhwLEPoi88i9Rg9Q_loW1aKbLu4ht5UYEiaB0W7jp0YtshRZvDfxA4/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDreryjgt3Q3ZwoM__WZnYRvizGMxG1JyYWmbJIe05hpk_IHgx9fHho0JbHrpP8edalNv8Komjaa6HOr8FCApKJlhwLEPoi88i9Rg9Q_loW1aKbLu4ht5UYEiaB0W7jp0YtshRZvDfxA4/s320/Slide4.JPG" /></a></div>
Who doesn't love a good steak? Dining in a real "Steak House" is always a treat and given it's price point, we reserve these nights out for special occasions. We were visiting newly found sister Tara & Warren in Oklahoma for the first time and they treated us for hubby's birthday to her favorite Steak House - Boulevard.
The really good steak houses all have that same atmosphere of rich dark old world mahogany and wood paneling, low lights, waiters dressed in formal black & white that offer impeccable service. There's always a fabulous bar serving martinis. Boulevard hits all the points and more.
<blockquote></blockquote>We started with a delicious 2014 Bodega Norton Malbec that was the perfect accompaniment to our Filet Mignon. Being a purist, I had mine plain - no steak sauce, no toppings - when I get a good expensive steak that's all I want to taste. And boy was it good. Tender, juicy and flavorful. Tara ordered hers rare and I ordered mine medium rare. Our waitress did something I've never seen done before (and I've eaten at quite a few good steak houses). She served our plates and asked us to please slice into the middle and confirm that they were the correct doneness. Turns out they had been flipped so a quick swap of plates delivered to us our perfect steaks. Hubby had the 12 oz. Rib Eye and it was perfection. All the steaks they serve are PRIME and you really can tell the difference.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRkjOjMoVtxpN5MnJEvOKXWG5EGL1ARWeThVnvqZFiKdAqDtc2G9QPd6CUbiwG2CDTPuSpXc_aZZEc0ppMKNXLSw-p59Ec_g1N3su_4st1zGlyo9RiaLSpHTrvM7z-_WjmS6qXX7GmCA/s1600/boulevardbar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMRkjOjMoVtxpN5MnJEvOKXWG5EGL1ARWeThVnvqZFiKdAqDtc2G9QPd6CUbiwG2CDTPuSpXc_aZZEc0ppMKNXLSw-p59Ec_g1N3su_4st1zGlyo9RiaLSpHTrvM7z-_WjmS6qXX7GmCA/s320/boulevardbar.JPG" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROhtPfwB5fHbqg0e-vlhn_Nh4KZmiBrSgigerJ78SMj5H8dzqyeHk08q5zjtmDz-WlBbRpdk1pncWPRxUYyubG6TUu205A0UzMLpHn6J3GrEfvpmZPL-whEONxKUjDqwBf7XK_u0CYTA/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROhtPfwB5fHbqg0e-vlhn_Nh4KZmiBrSgigerJ78SMj5H8dzqyeHk08q5zjtmDz-WlBbRpdk1pncWPRxUYyubG6TUu205A0UzMLpHn6J3GrEfvpmZPL-whEONxKUjDqwBf7XK_u0CYTA/s200/Slide2.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rObXdDduFv67-NQxaeftIObhwfdMjFaXs4lNhy1V5CC9VGDsq-Y2GE4cYFZcLbFmrAfS3ihLwWVslow1TaPAry5peGnFrEAuQr14lLCBgtxvWedPG4FQIhF7onVkQqnTjNnfZI33ad8/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rObXdDduFv67-NQxaeftIObhwfdMjFaXs4lNhy1V5CC9VGDsq-Y2GE4cYFZcLbFmrAfS3ihLwWVslow1TaPAry5peGnFrEAuQr14lLCBgtxvWedPG4FQIhF7onVkQqnTjNnfZI33ad8/s200/Slide3.JPG" /></a>
Apologies for the dark pictures but the restaurant was very dimly lit. Frankly I'm all for atmosphere but would prefer a little more light when I'm eating.
While there was just no room for dessert, Tara went for the Crème Brulee and devoured it while I indulged in a Cappuccino and hubby had an Espresso. We left quite satisfied and added this to our list of great Steak Houses to frequent.
<blockquote></blockquote>505 South Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73034, 405-715-2333
<blockquote></blockquote>http://boulevardsteakhouse.com/
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/oklahoma-city/boulevard-steakhouse-edmond" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Boulevard Steakhouse, Original Edmond and other Restaurants in Oklahoma City" target="_blank"><img alt="Boulevard Steakhouse Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17187516/ibiglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0px;" /></a>
Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-25166049080576225272016-06-10T19:36:00.000-07:002016-06-10T19:39:26.517-07:00Captain Brian's, Sarasota<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqkK3R4CSYpkWBQFpQeZZabqzsP0O9YzXgCR-CeRBB7Am1GbmAekd5rnxkXDknoUCgY3IpQgmYFxr4_Q6JHQgct3yw4PqrSK8l24MUG-Wbw8YQ0vxd9G8IO63v4xTL0j_v3pL4wfnuYI/s1600/CapBrianSign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqkK3R4CSYpkWBQFpQeZZabqzsP0O9YzXgCR-CeRBB7Am1GbmAekd5rnxkXDknoUCgY3IpQgmYFxr4_Q6JHQgct3yw4PqrSK8l24MUG-Wbw8YQ0vxd9G8IO63v4xTL0j_v3pL4wfnuYI/s320/CapBrianSign.JPG" /></a></div>
Sometimes just the girls have to 'escape' on their own for the day - away from housework and husbands and the routine. Today Cheryl kidnapped me and we escaped for a day of lunch and market shopping. First stop was Captain Brian's in Sarasota. It's a rather large space and we hit it just before the lunch crowd piled in. We were handed a lot of menus (three I think) which always drives me crazy. We ladies ordered variations of the same thing. I had Manhattan Clam Chowder and she opted for New England. Both were delicious, chunky, flavorful. Cheryl had the shrimp salad platter and I chose the Crab Salad platter. We enjoyed this light fare and it was a perfect portion.
<blockquote></blockquote>Captain Brian's also has a market at one end of the restaurant featuring showcases brimming with mounds of luscious seafood options you can take home and cook. Everything looks fresh and inviting, and the trophy shark hanging overhead lets you know there are some real fishermen running this establishment.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf78ZIaMlzvjIM5-KqN5SSJKfbmclBRFCDRZCy7vriS8oibeRJ766qsQsyPGLKekw4gmpWBoh7_2MH8i9uMGDl8LwEksgC07alL_IokOJZNc6Pwap0HvuLNLuYu0uvZxLirYbL-iUalzM/s1600/CapBrianSeafood1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf78ZIaMlzvjIM5-KqN5SSJKfbmclBRFCDRZCy7vriS8oibeRJ766qsQsyPGLKekw4gmpWBoh7_2MH8i9uMGDl8LwEksgC07alL_IokOJZNc6Pwap0HvuLNLuYu0uvZxLirYbL-iUalzM/s200/CapBrianSeafood1.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYOLaapqQSBJAR-IFjWCbQB7en-QBHNKvkdLvUabWmZBp554QyoHvuRDyICpcFxOHc8F-EI8uqfTPqBx2tlplBik0EdJxdMLbQHhByBjGGwJyRODAyUu1IaJyDHJh995PQUj3aiUluek/s1600/CapBrianSeafood2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYOLaapqQSBJAR-IFjWCbQB7en-QBHNKvkdLvUabWmZBp554QyoHvuRDyICpcFxOHc8F-EI8uqfTPqBx2tlplBik0EdJxdMLbQHhByBjGGwJyRODAyUu1IaJyDHJh995PQUj3aiUluek/s200/CapBrianSeafood2.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV84Xye5BsiFU1ui6btcIe28wlI-9apoieBOjQs3JmpZHuvqDHYG_i1moTdrEyXpHNEZkZbuMSwhNbMFCAj4sneFTGXZe9unndWEvu_ZsG_-IdMBZ1__dPyA_SxjJCB150ZkjKpzFOjIY/s1600/CapBrianBigFish.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV84Xye5BsiFU1ui6btcIe28wlI-9apoieBOjQs3JmpZHuvqDHYG_i1moTdrEyXpHNEZkZbuMSwhNbMFCAj4sneFTGXZe9unndWEvu_ZsG_-IdMBZ1__dPyA_SxjJCB150ZkjKpzFOjIY/s200/CapBrianBigFish.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYGNwcajvBUkojZ8PEkAHlwlaz0lt_i9hI3DFLmaphYB6rLCfB09OMvmDUaHMLX1W2Rcmvjptwm8dMUisJathvwkmygIRaVVJ0BMNlzFo_OBm_LHiEYluh0fgfTXYXxD63XiEEb4aB6s/s1600/CapBrianFishTank.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYGNwcajvBUkojZ8PEkAHlwlaz0lt_i9hI3DFLmaphYB6rLCfB09OMvmDUaHMLX1W2Rcmvjptwm8dMUisJathvwkmygIRaVVJ0BMNlzFo_OBm_LHiEYluh0fgfTXYXxD63XiEEb4aB6s/s200/CapBrianFishTank.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>The restaurant is participating in the yearly "Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week" which runs from June 1-14th. During Savor Sarasota you can enjoy 3-course meals from about fifty of the finest Sarasota eateries for just $15 per person for lunch and $29 per person for dinner. It's a great deal and a chance to sample some of the more expensive restaurants that may not fit your budget.
<blockquote></blockquote>Our next stop was Jessica's Stand, an Organic Farm Stand located near the Desoto subdivision (GPS it).....and they are open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The first thing we noticed when we parked was the plot of land adjacent to the farm stand - it was notable for having such a dark rich earthiness to it, attesting to its organic integrity (or at least that's what came to mind, but frankly we're city girls and easily impressed). <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzV5WtOxu3OeZgxwh2mOx3FvRqfuGO2hLFLSLJuE0i_xCLjH_lZu7I7ygOGrQ7hjgh2ZpvNsdaIhRMoTpCd2rXqWxMNIhITylPyLEKXmZmIr3uAeVJAe_d6xij7Nyf8jgUM9YQm4GCWM/s1600/Fri-JessicasStandSign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzV5WtOxu3OeZgxwh2mOx3FvRqfuGO2hLFLSLJuE0i_xCLjH_lZu7I7ygOGrQ7hjgh2ZpvNsdaIhRMoTpCd2rXqWxMNIhITylPyLEKXmZmIr3uAeVJAe_d6xij7Nyf8jgUM9YQm4GCWM/s320/Fri-JessicasStandSign.JPG" /></a></div>
I was wowed (and wooed) by some absolutely beautiful fruits and vegetables and they were in such a colorful array they fairly begged to be picked up and squeezed and sniffed and enjoyed for their wholesomeness.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9YMgMp6WJ0aeRo6qNZk7Js8Qv29I-wD2TNuGIVhm90wL6HK69htQGfYZwhZA7xvUbARq_sVvFw-hi0cyEFfl0RzpyzaQzxorYRPPGctP6DOHje8wPPOQq-duPIAJK85F_Gi7Cp93UWE/s1600/Fri-organicpurchase2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9YMgMp6WJ0aeRo6qNZk7Js8Qv29I-wD2TNuGIVhm90wL6HK69htQGfYZwhZA7xvUbARq_sVvFw-hi0cyEFfl0RzpyzaQzxorYRPPGctP6DOHje8wPPOQq-duPIAJK85F_Gi7Cp93UWE/s200/Fri-organicpurchase2.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgJYt_t9VeVK-jalBR2IdQsB2PiMFjrEDI-ViB9uQqKjiORB1fWTNel5ddTiGbdFent5GdNrIXlt6OcS4lgKLtfS0U8Sxvc-T04YLW6r7IyVAWkNB9gECzSH0gVpvvA25_tkSp-GEwfqU/s1600/Fri-tomatoeswow.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgJYt_t9VeVK-jalBR2IdQsB2PiMFjrEDI-ViB9uQqKjiORB1fWTNel5ddTiGbdFent5GdNrIXlt6OcS4lgKLtfS0U8Sxvc-T04YLW6r7IyVAWkNB9gECzSH0gVpvvA25_tkSp-GEwfqU/s200/Fri-tomatoeswow.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsrLutDcGM4bEkMoSUcX0EXbgWnMD1pO6DeVo5B8B_Q4kEBY6Yzr1Rp7G8GbZUHabcwZveUJ90wgDMNM2JjN8dq-8-HVKXXm4OYgocr1SaVPy-osZCBwyaq2j6wPrpmz2Erl8k9iVd0Q/s1600/Fri-tomatoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsrLutDcGM4bEkMoSUcX0EXbgWnMD1pO6DeVo5B8B_Q4kEBY6Yzr1Rp7G8GbZUHabcwZveUJ90wgDMNM2JjN8dq-8-HVKXXm4OYgocr1SaVPy-osZCBwyaq2j6wPrpmz2Erl8k9iVd0Q/s200/Fri-tomatoes.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNHP0C730mh1jzMS_iPjM2bwudoXpLcpma3mdfigl2yzksidxY2C7O91jnjbPk3pi1BBxb6yMzEDlFy7eSO5bsnFvGER2_4lL2vxP4tIyFJAkOJqLwuVu11D94OyT3qJVCx_sxvkG9QNE/s1600/Fri-watermelon.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNHP0C730mh1jzMS_iPjM2bwudoXpLcpma3mdfigl2yzksidxY2C7O91jnjbPk3pi1BBxb6yMzEDlFy7eSO5bsnFvGER2_4lL2vxP4tIyFJAkOJqLwuVu11D94OyT3qJVCx_sxvkG9QNE/s200/Fri-watermelon.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>I prepared a salad of organic tomato and arugula tonight drizzled with olive oil and red wine vinegar and it was the perfect accompaniment to the shrimp & pasta hubby prepared. Tomorrow I have great plans for the Escarole in an effort to impress hubby and remind him of his childhood dinner table. Wish me luck as I search for an old Italian recipe.
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.savorsarasota.com
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.captainbriansseafood.com
<blockquote></blockquote>8421 N Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Fl 34243
<blockquote></blockquote>jessicasorganicfarm.com
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/captain-brians-seafood-market-restaurant-sarasota" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Captain Brian's Seafood Market & Restaurant, Sarasota and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Captain Brian's Seafood Market & Restaurant Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17098952/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote><a title="View Michelle Jolly's food journey on Zomato!" href="https://www.zomato.com/thegreatescape"><img alt="View my food journey on Zomato!" src="https://www.zomato.com/widgets/user_widget_img.php?type=blogrank&city_id=604&user_id=23097347"></a>
Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-16769747800159992612016-06-07T06:19:00.000-07:002016-06-13T12:15:34.250-07:00TOP GOLF, TAMPA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGuD4_8s1Xn6iT_q0H0_wuYvqwxa0x0fhae11DYRDZFa70a-n7Xqsg5DJRB8H1Zd5hOgC0RG60n1CUD5T6IAAbORxBzIavkgd6ebWovNGzyf8_4s6f7ICzV_NJhfTGkFoIMA9nKEWieY/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGuD4_8s1Xn6iT_q0H0_wuYvqwxa0x0fhae11DYRDZFa70a-n7Xqsg5DJRB8H1Zd5hOgC0RG60n1CUD5T6IAAbORxBzIavkgd6ebWovNGzyf8_4s6f7ICzV_NJhfTGkFoIMA9nKEWieY/s320/Slide2.JPG" /></a></div>
Last night hubby picked me up at the office and we decided to have a bite to eat in Brandon and wait for the rainy traffic to subside a little. Here's how the conversation went....Me: "what do you feel like eating?" He: "I don't know, what are you in the mood for?" Me: "I asked you first cause you care more and when I make a suggestion you make a face, so just tell me where you want to eat...etc." How many times have y'all had that exchange? More often than you'd like to admit, right?
So I came up with a brainstorm on the spur of the moment as we were driving along Falkenburg - let's go to Top Golf!
<blockquote></blockquote>We've been here before a couple of years ago with friends to hit some balls and were surprised with how much we enjoyed their restaurant. But this venue is a very nice option even if you don't play golf. It's a slick operation (one of dozens around the US), beautifully decorated and designed for lively fun for all ages. Don't try going on a weekend evening or you'll be met with long lines. But we were there for the food and it was as good as we remembered.
<blockquote></blockquote>I had a Turkey and Avocado Wrap with oven-roasted turkey, avocado, carrots, cucumber, lettuce, tomato and a chipotle aoili that gave it just the right 'kick' to spark my taste buds. I upgraded to a side of fruit salad. The sandwich was so large that I took half home to enjoy for lunch the next day. The fruit salad was also a generous portion and I shared it. Hubby had a Fried Chicken Sandwich on a brioche bun and opted for the Tater Tots. Both dishes were very good and we left very satisfied.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hdYK0isxG9Ti_YAxRexaH-uHKTArHL5kzBikY1HSqwTselgNdNSEKjvyRuLJ68tZ95Khdc6PvZDcCMhyoQh_-ifm-HJeT16zV5tTFrXeuOqm9oLMs8PvzbDC5v8ffFtOBrKnhm1XR6E/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hdYK0isxG9Ti_YAxRexaH-uHKTArHL5kzBikY1HSqwTselgNdNSEKjvyRuLJ68tZ95Khdc6PvZDcCMhyoQh_-ifm-HJeT16zV5tTFrXeuOqm9oLMs8PvzbDC5v8ffFtOBrKnhm1XR6E/s200/Slide1.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rEpBKzQYVR4CB_0-aQyNL052qY4Z7XyjVagh9mBLA5kBe6VPj_pu8Gz11PM9lwkTv2naoyTvy8BgNajofvgd9bNslrrGCRDvy7cPS9rc2lwGHad20UXUABomGoOVt8T58OrBC_v5JIU/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1rEpBKzQYVR4CB_0-aQyNL052qY4Z7XyjVagh9mBLA5kBe6VPj_pu8Gz11PM9lwkTv2naoyTvy8BgNajofvgd9bNslrrGCRDvy7cPS9rc2lwGHad20UXUABomGoOVt8T58OrBC_v5JIU/s200/Slide3.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>The staff is young, energetic and very friendly and we enjoyed our banter as they took good care of us, even agreeing to pose for a photo.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiweK8cHkgE7HEezZ8iipkrRbB7FYeDQlRr6ul_kb1ZkFxNa1xlDDe0EgACB7jzPDzyAPdW-M6Xg-XkwXTDLDc08K-VtXxUfNf3tMcnSZAg4V2ucyPTgen5hxNkaFZf9GjpmKgP4McZe-c/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiweK8cHkgE7HEezZ8iipkrRbB7FYeDQlRr6ul_kb1ZkFxNa1xlDDe0EgACB7jzPDzyAPdW-M6Xg-XkwXTDLDc08K-VtXxUfNf3tMcnSZAg4V2ucyPTgen5hxNkaFZf9GjpmKgP4McZe-c/s200/Slide1.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLbiSCBpJXdOC-LprarPqec7hN37vXGpuJCeG12EaxuiB1zlIspYjLbjWNaHEt-vrwdl4iJ_dJUz9nl_SxFJBjw5hT6zcYRSxYf5GkpGvv1fYUpBPp3zFwBz74r4CXKsa8IDKZQGr1-0/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLbiSCBpJXdOC-LprarPqec7hN37vXGpuJCeG12EaxuiB1zlIspYjLbjWNaHEt-vrwdl4iJ_dJUz9nl_SxFJBjw5hT6zcYRSxYf5GkpGvv1fYUpBPp3zFwBz74r4CXKsa8IDKZQGr1-0/s200/Slide4.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>We managed to resist ordering dessert but I'm including a photo here of the ultimate indulgence which we had last time. Donut holes served with an injector filled with your choice of: raspberry, chocolate or Bavarian cream. OMG get one to share with friends and worry about dieting some other time!
<blockquote></blockquote>www.topgolf.com/us/tampa
<blockquote></blockquote>10690 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619
<blockquote></blockquote><a title="View Michelle Jolly's food journey on Zomato!" href="https://www.zomato.com/thegreatescape"><img alt="View my food journey on Zomato!" src="https://www.zomato.com/widgets/user_widget_img.php?type=blogrank&city_id=604&user_id=23097347"></a>
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/topgolf-downtown-tampa" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Topgolf, Downtown Tampa and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Topgolf Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/18336769/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-5993839106554300302016-06-06T10:21:00.000-07:002016-06-06T10:21:51.284-07:00Acropolis, Ybor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SRStTGBu-IF4oq1KG1ORO9cn-HLNJpZ2P6VBK1VTmxFIDPPJHiLwNJBGgSxyGlnfh9oIyt9NPmPvPJZp5CO2Pb__fmmmdsFg5JuZmEQvUQ2RkLMR7e91FpeMdn8YsQFOJIyRhyphenhyphen8nSu0/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SRStTGBu-IF4oq1KG1ORO9cn-HLNJpZ2P6VBK1VTmxFIDPPJHiLwNJBGgSxyGlnfh9oIyt9NPmPvPJZp5CO2Pb__fmmmdsFg5JuZmEQvUQ2RkLMR7e91FpeMdn8YsQFOJIyRhyphenhyphen8nSu0/s320/Slide1.JPG" /></a></div>
Last night was a particularly fun 'escape' that started with dinner at The Acropolis in Ybor City and ended with opening night at the Straz for Jersey Boys. In a word.....WOW.
We selected the Ybor Acropolis for its good food and also its close proximity to the Straz, a mere ten minute drive. The restaurant was very quiet at this midweek point which meant quick service. Our waitress was dressed in the cutest 60's retro style, sporting a black and white polka dot head scarf and matching nail polish. I know it's not the 'Greek' styling you'd expect from the Acropolis, but her style seemed perfect for Ybor City's trendy atmosphere, and besides - she was an excellent waitress in every way.
I love the ambiance at Acropolis and the Ybor City location differs slightly from the Riverview one but they both appeal. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJL8l1t177V4mxWugg0xFiMikL9wV476aG1gf_lyUjLgwtSaunfnqlXHkBpovBBsopBhEXbr6zPcbHhp_iXgOv5xlaMe2FjTQ-YliNLlkKA5-1niNcyr2sHErbeOSIjNJyNekPkWCuGw/s1600/Slide5.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJL8l1t177V4mxWugg0xFiMikL9wV476aG1gf_lyUjLgwtSaunfnqlXHkBpovBBsopBhEXbr6zPcbHhp_iXgOv5xlaMe2FjTQ-YliNLlkKA5-1niNcyr2sHErbeOSIjNJyNekPkWCuGw/s200/Slide5.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DOUKVmxXhVZjDrK7LzdRlJFa0egeGSR17i0iIZ-nvOe5nR39aYQU7dLChz4G3heG4F0VbwXk9aTgG-TTaRomUX1Iyx1IKF9WTGejnyyghBbih9UdvEmqSxfJednQe2ZpgsqnKQsQjto/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DOUKVmxXhVZjDrK7LzdRlJFa0egeGSR17i0iIZ-nvOe5nR39aYQU7dLChz4G3heG4F0VbwXk9aTgG-TTaRomUX1Iyx1IKF9WTGejnyyghBbih9UdvEmqSxfJednQe2ZpgsqnKQsQjto/s200/Slide2.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyNDCcqgQRxfXRqzClJnERwQrBJ7g-ioyqHy1cXt_Qce3RxrYgfV8dfV0BS2iTmQMKRrFJUNMMp8gM7uIGBaFyVTizKT1XiIsdEb0fRFgmIUsjFrp_JDgd1bozqS4od1g8sovAyU6HFZU/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyNDCcqgQRxfXRqzClJnERwQrBJ7g-ioyqHy1cXt_Qce3RxrYgfV8dfV0BS2iTmQMKRrFJUNMMp8gM7uIGBaFyVTizKT1XiIsdEb0fRFgmIUsjFrp_JDgd1bozqS4od1g8sovAyU6HFZU/s200/Slide3.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>I had a Greek Burger sans bun with sauteed mushrooms and onions and topped with feta cheese served with lettuce, tomato and red onion. It was absolutely delicious, juicy and flavorful and I'd definitely order it again.
Hubby had the seafood pasta and as is typical when he orders pasta, it didn't measure up. The sauce was a bit to creamy for his taste but he ate all the clams and scallops. <blockquote></blockquote>The real star was his appetizer of Roasted Red Pepper Hummus served with Pita Bread. We all scooped that up eagerly and enjoyed it immensely.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0WOfO5gHgOkit5mqhSfveMsY6Q3GkIwvVAOdOV_fuj3tsFUZee9vCIgD02lVubDtSt9dV7L23u2u5T69XLgUIEru6VaQDTrdbcv1ZxxFCBCxfF6LMCS8eMyoaGLMKY6_AddnOgAyJgo/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0WOfO5gHgOkit5mqhSfveMsY6Q3GkIwvVAOdOV_fuj3tsFUZee9vCIgD02lVubDtSt9dV7L23u2u5T69XLgUIEru6VaQDTrdbcv1ZxxFCBCxfF6LMCS8eMyoaGLMKY6_AddnOgAyJgo/s200/Slide2.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhoKKMnedubQrVIaL97MLw4t0QQwlXjurSMyww6WMY6jPajpWx9ShJBivQrb67oyQaBCKXQ5nRLYt04pXZjWbKInMF6-ln64WowDlUTSF6yJV7rALbQ94U5Adov43u7SkXgbL22xuoork/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhoKKMnedubQrVIaL97MLw4t0QQwlXjurSMyww6WMY6jPajpWx9ShJBivQrb67oyQaBCKXQ5nRLYt04pXZjWbKInMF6-ln64WowDlUTSF6yJV7rALbQ94U5Adov43u7SkXgbL22xuoork/s200/Slide3.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>Marianne had the Spanakopita and loved its flaky pastry dough and the side of Tzatziki. Phil had the Blackened Shrimp Wrap with olives, sun dried tomatoes, avocado, spinach, feta...yum, in a Spinach Tortilla.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOVm8eJhoir4Cr99hHvNK0IeZW3xrHnIOym4CBIr6xK5wPvn-C2l_kD8GM4P8dAjx0gW8njQDSW8UllwbxtmowvIsgFSJdF_dRUNc3mUjAq0xS-AarfolnDREhBo4VDCzIHPTTrnHgcI/s1600/Slide4.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOVm8eJhoir4Cr99hHvNK0IeZW3xrHnIOym4CBIr6xK5wPvn-C2l_kD8GM4P8dAjx0gW8njQDSW8UllwbxtmowvIsgFSJdF_dRUNc3mUjAq0xS-AarfolnDREhBo4VDCzIHPTTrnHgcI/s200/Slide4.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjufPJajT97aiCpX0KYF06dlY2_8DiJoH6O5nwXQVILNBHqmBYpOLx08jE3CLcutptIc_7R2-CkcQiZgNxyN-MWgpVLso30LjOSw-2VykV6bBSXCCWlliEHzX39kuryLICFPtvHJTbZ8Oc/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjufPJajT97aiCpX0KYF06dlY2_8DiJoH6O5nwXQVILNBHqmBYpOLx08jE3CLcutptIc_7R2-CkcQiZgNxyN-MWgpVLso30LjOSw-2VykV6bBSXCCWlliEHzX39kuryLICFPtvHJTbZ8Oc/s200/Slide1.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>We finished up quickly and headed over to the Straz for what was the most wonderful show - I've seen the Jersey Boys before and enjoyed it, but this production was exciting and joyful. The crowd roared with applause each time they sang one of their hits, sustained applause that filled the room and gladdened the hearts of the singers. It was a wonderful opening night and I'm glad we were there to see it.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTSQUk0PSIR3r2cgyJYWpgtKpiHyYmmWRSWDs3jzID2ODGooFBgbncveFmaWmU-Es-1yRms25hSh3j8tf9ks4hJIJG0hfl6XQYRq_oMCg1uqgJlddYPSr9JHZH0stYJVzARRsWoi6F6A/s1600/jerseyboys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTSQUk0PSIR3r2cgyJYWpgtKpiHyYmmWRSWDs3jzID2ODGooFBgbncveFmaWmU-Es-1yRms25hSh3j8tf9ks4hJIJG0hfl6XQYRq_oMCg1uqgJlddYPSr9JHZH0stYJVzARRsWoi6F6A/s320/jerseyboys.jpg" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.acropolistaverna.com/
<blockquote></blockquote>1833 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-4882383369667591432016-05-30T09:22:00.001-07:002016-05-30T09:22:40.638-07:00Cedar Reef Fish Camp, Bradenton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjwBG-Zkn1KvMdex1yWqJ-03YtR42R90uhMPkvCUC0PHQGb8OAkXXc7L7SzKKi9G63jNEDQWIqFuagVzBLYVXG-l8AbdNtEOsUoTx5PUZpt4vliC3BJQb4Kkv4QQTp3HRmDVpTt07Bolg/s1600/reefwebsitelogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjwBG-Zkn1KvMdex1yWqJ-03YtR42R90uhMPkvCUC0PHQGb8OAkXXc7L7SzKKi9G63jNEDQWIqFuagVzBLYVXG-l8AbdNtEOsUoTx5PUZpt4vliC3BJQb4Kkv4QQTp3HRmDVpTt07Bolg/s400/reefwebsitelogo.jpg" /></a></div>
Our gang headed south to Bradenton this weekend to check out Cedar Reef Fish Camp. First impressions count, right? And so when I hear a reference to "Fish Camp" I imagine being on the water somewhere, not in a shopping plaza. However, once you walk through the doors you are surrounded by that casual dive by the bay atmosphere and I liked it! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhUrTBNbqoiJIM33cLIu1Ia7xulqzRkuzDoEdXTnUCaZCNA6C111drsLKcE6IUrGvGgjFNEaoKlk218ibPzT5-23_UNHjX8XK1siUlDg77qgU114bvIq_VsUuViZt2shitTxs8LAuKis/s1600/reef+chalkboard.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKhUrTBNbqoiJIM33cLIu1Ia7xulqzRkuzDoEdXTnUCaZCNA6C111drsLKcE6IUrGvGgjFNEaoKlk218ibPzT5-23_UNHjX8XK1siUlDg77qgU114bvIq_VsUuViZt2shitTxs8LAuKis/s200/reef+chalkboard.JPG" /></a></div>
We were seated at a long table with half of us sitting in chairs and the others against a lovely high backed banquette. My only complaint for the evening was that our very nice waitress served the whole meal by passing plates down to us instead of coming around behind our chairs to set the plates down. It may seem like a small thing but when you're in the middle of a bite with your fork in mid air and you have to stop and lean back because there's a plate being passed under your nose to the person next to you - well, that's just bad form. That may have been forgiven for those seated at the banquette side, but there was plenty of walking around room behind my side of the table to serve and bus properly.
<blockquote></blockquote>Cheryl & Ken started with a crab dip surrounded by tri-color chips and they found it good but not great as it seemed to have too much of a cheese flavor. And my hubby started with the charmingly named "Bubba's Wedgie" which he rather enjoyed opting for Ranch vs. Blue Cheese dressing.
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9vEN-JrCQ6jAOnO4pAt18TfYVDckQu_yh8NO7UkLrKksFXz7CpCiDCWLZlbRYvz0oBaxb-rCvM90K5OfKGF5H2tPHf4ShE01QyWEMxfrqNtIwXLpIRqwnZWmJZe4PirwWbU30t-qgHo/s1600/crabdipkaplan.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9vEN-JrCQ6jAOnO4pAt18TfYVDckQu_yh8NO7UkLrKksFXz7CpCiDCWLZlbRYvz0oBaxb-rCvM90K5OfKGF5H2tPHf4ShE01QyWEMxfrqNtIwXLpIRqwnZWmJZe4PirwWbU30t-qgHo/s200/crabdipkaplan.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLa0fRMrpD157s4t4phVXmhW-pvEeaubqQAWsC1Yy7nicfcp_d2yqHOuASMvFy4YzQsFRk3nry7wDPFJilTKw0JX_huuYGMjQy-a1yV1knfbINr-zei5felxMUQb2N11uZ7ZSZnVbebtk/s1600/wedgesalad.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLa0fRMrpD157s4t4phVXmhW-pvEeaubqQAWsC1Yy7nicfcp_d2yqHOuASMvFy4YzQsFRk3nry7wDPFJilTKw0JX_huuYGMjQy-a1yV1knfbINr-zei5felxMUQb2N11uZ7ZSZnVbebtk/s200/wedgesalad.jpg" /></a>
Five out of eight of us went for the Blackened Redfish served over rice and black beans. Here's something neat.....while trying to figure out if any of us had ever had Redfish, I stumbled upon a handy "Fish Dictionary" in the back of the menu that explained all the different types of fish.
<blockquote></blockquote><b>FUN FISH FACT</b>: Redfish are one of many game fish to catch along the Tampa, Clearwater, and West Coast areas of Florida. Reds can be found along the whole Gulf Coast and also up the Atlantic Coast, as far north as North Carolina. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSsPDPlb4HQBGh0dCRECd968aKICG6K8GUehwtBmNSSz6ZO05VPOg2pyhbMw0HkgQK9RPM3SkJtzupKeMCGKG2IQfY9NK5JSoVpFesmxlfBDI36D7F8PN8NDaIbjuX2_tuqTAg-_LyPw/s1600/redfishphoto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSsPDPlb4HQBGh0dCRECd968aKICG6K8GUehwtBmNSSz6ZO05VPOg2pyhbMw0HkgQK9RPM3SkJtzupKeMCGKG2IQfY9NK5JSoVpFesmxlfBDI36D7F8PN8NDaIbjuX2_tuqTAg-_LyPw/s320/redfishphoto.jpg" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>Ken ordered Shrimp & Grits with the heat turned up "New Orleans Style" adding Andouille sausage, smoked bacon, and caramelized onions. Hubby went for the Garlic Mussels and upped the ante by having it served over linguini. Of course it came with garlic bread to sop up the luscious garlicky goodness. Smiles all around the table.
All of this was washed down with some Happy Hour priced beer and wine (yes, we're senior citizens) and we left satisfied and happy with our meals. Back to the Fox Hole for Peach Kuchen, Hollie's Nana's recipe using peaches freshly picked that morning at the U-Pick Farm out at Fort Lonesome. Nana's recipe is generously shared below courtesy of Hollie:
<blockquote></blockquote><b>Peach Kuchen</b>
<blockquote></blockquote>2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
<blockquote></blockquote>¼ tsp. baking powder
<blockquote></blockquote>½ tsp. salt
<blockquote></blockquote>1 cup sugar (separate out 2 T.)
<blockquote></blockquote>½ cup butter
<blockquote></blockquote>6 - 8 peaches (fresh is best!)
<blockquote></blockquote>1 tsp. cinnamon
<blockquote></blockquote>2 egg yolks
<blockquote></blockquote>1 c. heavy (or sour) cream
<blockquote></blockquote>
<blockquote></blockquote>Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Sift flour, baking powder, salt, and 2 T sugar in mixing bowl. Cut in butter until texture resembles coarse cornmeal. Pat over bottom and half way up sides of 8 x 8 baking dish. Skin peaches by cutting a small X in the base, then place in boiling water for 30 seconds, followed by ice water for 10 seconds - the skins should slip off easily. Slice (or drain canned peaches or thaw frozen peaches) and arrange over pastry. Sprinkle with remaining sugar & cinnamon. Bake 15 minutes, then pour mixture of slightly beaten egg yolks and cream over top. Bake 30 minutes more. Best served warm or at room temperature. Serves 9.
<blockquote></blockquote>We'll definitely be back to Cedar Reef some time to sample the rest of their menu.
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.cedarreef.com
<blockquote></blockquote>7240 55th Avenue East, Bradenton, FL 34203
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/cedar-reef-fish-camp-bradenton" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Cedar Reef Fish Camp, Bradenton and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Cedar Reef Fish Camp Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17103328/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-41697829126893628982016-05-27T21:06:00.000-07:002016-05-27T21:06:58.846-07:00Frescos, St. Petersburgh<blockquote></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0HJ8IpxHPmjENyx1XRdyCCuBhF82PyZ6lbJBB73nWpXOJ1uMybTa53uYKGlbXMKk7ai9i2teDaqsXRu4rl9X7s_Sih9pM01tH5hf0b2nqfuiDZe1mlEh_x53tSlPDRj2UmEfA2E7vy0/s1600/frescos+dock.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0HJ8IpxHPmjENyx1XRdyCCuBhF82PyZ6lbJBB73nWpXOJ1uMybTa53uYKGlbXMKk7ai9i2teDaqsXRu4rl9X7s_Sih9pM01tH5hf0b2nqfuiDZe1mlEh_x53tSlPDRj2UmEfA2E7vy0/s320/frescos+dock.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>This week our good friends invited us on a boating excursion of Tampa Bay. What a treat! The day was picture perfect, the Bay was relatively calm, and we were wise enough to go midweek and avoid the crowds. We ended up in St. Pete at Frescos and if you've never docked at a marina and hopped out of the boat onto the pier you are definitely missing something. I felt positively jaunty. There's even a special boat parking meter - who knew?
<blockquote></blockquote>We found a table on the patio and enjoyed the balmy breeze and the view of a variety of very cool looking yachts and boats. It really is a whole way of life, this boating thing.
<blockquote></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmez6JdJwM7tlt4T4i6JE_eugg3gwysZ79YSIG3b0tLRmr-fqtBQdXE1-9ck2bhcpI9dXnVsm2tG5CWW2ROKZyB517ys3qf_K-OtUJfmkuEG9iZWIPYHDKUHM7oWe7Tu9qVwXebilfiE/s1600/frescosumbrellas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmez6JdJwM7tlt4T4i6JE_eugg3gwysZ79YSIG3b0tLRmr-fqtBQdXE1-9ck2bhcpI9dXnVsm2tG5CWW2ROKZyB517ys3qf_K-OtUJfmkuEG9iZWIPYHDKUHM7oWe7Tu9qVwXebilfiE/s200/frescosumbrellas.JPG" /></a></div>
Hollie and I both ordered the Portabella Salad: a beautiful presentation of Yellow Squash, Zucchini, Roasted Red Peppers and Feta with a Balsamic glaze. It was almost too pretty to eat but I tucked in and finished half of the very large portion with an eye toward bringing the other half home for later. Too bad for me that while we were talking and looking around hubby stole my reserved Portabella Mushroom and gobbled it up. Harumph....oh well.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_ZuyMpYU_ck9bqYW11rjkqW-zZuihDWrcXgjzRe_T99ygrKYbK3P91XJe1uOMsIAAJg8a8NMjPO63SsviglSLjNNfaZUfHr_nltewo81plam7HYpmE5f5Mm5MJBHYwLfnIc3BYPdGK8/s1600/veggies.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_ZuyMpYU_ck9bqYW11rjkqW-zZuihDWrcXgjzRe_T99ygrKYbK3P91XJe1uOMsIAAJg8a8NMjPO63SsviglSLjNNfaZUfHr_nltewo81plam7HYpmE5f5Mm5MJBHYwLfnIc3BYPdGK8/s320/veggies.JPG" /></a> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcFChoC_cLJP19S8s60JvjYgnuZCHK0Us_jW7hE4BmRd2w3ayNAZmrBTaTIvyJq8CFh8Ve9zJPg4uWRvW9Zlq2nnrL5b2ARzWPvRHF2JZfnUQIeBijPp36aeUyFjdA-dBa_xl-GoSVkI/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcFChoC_cLJP19S8s60JvjYgnuZCHK0Us_jW7hE4BmRd2w3ayNAZmrBTaTIvyJq8CFh8Ve9zJPg4uWRvW9Zlq2nnrL5b2ARzWPvRHF2JZfnUQIeBijPp36aeUyFjdA-dBa_xl-GoSVkI/s200/Slide1.JPG" /></a></div>
Hubby had the Steak Portabella Wrap: Sliced sirloin, portabella mushrooms, spinach, sautéed onions, roasted red pepper, provolone and horseradish sauce with a side of Bowtie Pasta. He reports that the steak was very tender and he enjoyed it immensely (and then stole my Portabella Mushroom....no I'm not letting it go).
Service was quick and efficient and we thought at first that our young waitress was taking a personal phone call while servicing her tables only to learn that her phone was a mini POS system. Marvelous. Some time back I wrote a review of a restaurant where instead of menus we were given a bunch of iPads on which to place our orders directly with the kitchen. I didn't like it at all, but I do applaud the use of iPhones as POS systems.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR_2j-3vw_ToKUA_VRw_1022cIfmz-vYp1_5oyUdYAy2QZ9XYnk015JlZ2iWw_C27lvmdGlPpme06BGpY1Wo_w5G2nH2D5SRGqzF9rL_vtw94fuiiaRC49FcQdttKhieaMgOb1YwTbuCQ/s1600/steak%2526mushroomwrap.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR_2j-3vw_ToKUA_VRw_1022cIfmz-vYp1_5oyUdYAy2QZ9XYnk015JlZ2iWw_C27lvmdGlPpme06BGpY1Wo_w5G2nH2D5SRGqzF9rL_vtw94fuiiaRC49FcQdttKhieaMgOb1YwTbuCQ/s200/steak%2526mushroomwrap.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>Mike opted for the Steak Sandwich topped with mushrooms & caramelized onions served on a hoagie with French Fries. Yum.
<blockquote></blockquote>This part of St. Pete is so charming with museums and restaurants and shops and parks. Whether by boat or by car I've put this lovely part of town on my List of Places to Go as there's lots to explore.
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.frescoswaterfront.com
<blockquote></blockquote>Located in Downtown St. Petersburg at the foot of the Pier
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/frescos-waterfront-bistro-st-petersburg" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Fresco's Waterfront Bistro, Downtown St Petersburg and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Fresco's Waterfront Bistro Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17093828/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-12782276126959315972016-05-27T20:15:00.000-07:002016-05-27T21:07:23.821-07:00Bahama Breeze, Brandon Westfield Mall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1KNl7UA3nKS_BCJQPkwKg0j_SYijm4dKHdWbMepscIlKTpieRK3pKMoLDnAEr2WChgrUoIUeEJ7kA3dM4nvlDsC8XXIbkPC6k2afaZ0EMzuWqk3JJw_v_6MjUK4HhE9XVNR7tgrpD9k/s1600/bahbrzexterior+shot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1KNl7UA3nKS_BCJQPkwKg0j_SYijm4dKHdWbMepscIlKTpieRK3pKMoLDnAEr2WChgrUoIUeEJ7kA3dM4nvlDsC8XXIbkPC6k2afaZ0EMzuWqk3JJw_v_6MjUK4HhE9XVNR7tgrpD9k/s320/bahbrzexterior+shot.JPG" /></a></div>
Shopping at any mall can be exhausting and stressful. This week hubby and I dragged ourselves out of Penney's (mission accomplished) and found ourselves too hungry to look for a restaurant. Luckily there are some tasty options at the Brandon Westfield Mall so for the first time we tried Bahama Breeze. It's located in the spot previously held by Sin Equal and we'd always enjoyed going there and wondered why they left.
As it turns out we were in for a treat. Ever diet conscious, I ordered a turkey burger (sans bun) and a side of Cuban black bean soup. I have to say it was THE most delicious turkey burger I'd ever had. It was moist and flavorful, topped with caramelized onions, guacamole, tomato and arugula. And the soup was heavenly, rich flavor with just the right amount of seasonings (I know a little something about black beans as its one of my few specialties). Hubby had the Ropa Vieja (Old Clothes) Sandwich ....I've never quite understood that moniker..... served on Cuban bread and served with a side of yellow rice and black beans. He was very pleased with it.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNw_YjkdiAfkHDMEdKRgnsdgxkqC1_q4Y4asYA_6E79uBOayXIj0s8K6W7AvYa12FmVbm5iZZl7XG2W-OgZyHpaVBN6dafOEsPUeJi05lv7tr3bUnG3erDJ526-H1Uoz95ZW3PHjv7Kks/s1600/bahbrzropavieja.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNw_YjkdiAfkHDMEdKRgnsdgxkqC1_q4Y4asYA_6E79uBOayXIj0s8K6W7AvYa12FmVbm5iZZl7XG2W-OgZyHpaVBN6dafOEsPUeJi05lv7tr3bUnG3erDJ526-H1Uoz95ZW3PHjv7Kks/s200/bahbrzropavieja.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdy7yDQzju8kHLmoZDCJfJWLsg3wREF539_TlH04a33nA-81B9Rk6WoTPy2to2XQflfIo2MQGTM5N4dg71H0mRHX91s01zOzgXtfXgxWVpi4xVeZVFErXTOx3900ECdkUkA6o8gX91y4/s1600/bahbrzturkeyburger.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdy7yDQzju8kHLmoZDCJfJWLsg3wREF539_TlH04a33nA-81B9Rk6WoTPy2to2XQflfIo2MQGTM5N4dg71H0mRHX91s01zOzgXtfXgxWVpi4xVeZVFErXTOx3900ECdkUkA6o8gX91y4/s200/bahbrzturkeyburger.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>Our waitress Tiffany was sharp, friendly, very good at her job and the whole experience was so pleasant we're sure to go back again soon - even if we don't have any shopping to do.
<blockquote></blockquote>http://www.bahamabreeze.com
<blockquote></blockquote>805 Brandon Town Center Drive, Brandon, FL 33511 / (813) 681-0904
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/bahama-breeze-brandon" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Bahama Breeze, Brandon / Valrico and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Bahama Breeze Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17103098/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
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Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-49765456409455957812016-05-09T10:32:00.000-07:002016-05-09T10:32:00.811-07:00Escape to Cafe Dufrain
<blockquote></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYu0RUM5ArnRO1486ASuhKvTyKbJ2Q_HTcyceGWqp6EY1N4VSEgPzyhgJ8EjyWcNUeomJi99xuzz3-2p0OZXhppLXFPHtJOIGXPqsuuUTOfQkX9AgV_g_uBPjMicUZYV8swF9r25l24Q/s1600/CafeDufrainLogo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYu0RUM5ArnRO1486ASuhKvTyKbJ2Q_HTcyceGWqp6EY1N4VSEgPzyhgJ8EjyWcNUeomJi99xuzz3-2p0OZXhppLXFPHtJOIGXPqsuuUTOfQkX9AgV_g_uBPjMicUZYV8swF9r25l24Q/s400/CafeDufrainLogo.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>It was a balmy evening so we were very happy to be seated outside on the patio with beautiful views of Hillsborough Bay. The Tampa Bay Times Forum is just across the bay and we dined against the backdrop of thunderous roars from the fans cheering their team on.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiC2j3O4HxuuC8Lp_hhx8MBwrFFP7GXnicmVWJu8fAA0SCH8FrAoGXp6nfs3EeoyKe1L2aqTngvejGBcOmLXJk1N-YmURcyb9xpTHh18azEHhG8OiaqrP6jn1WLSCKOu-q74SLC-h7r8Y/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiC2j3O4HxuuC8Lp_hhx8MBwrFFP7GXnicmVWJu8fAA0SCH8FrAoGXp6nfs3EeoyKe1L2aqTngvejGBcOmLXJk1N-YmURcyb9xpTHh18azEHhG8OiaqrP6jn1WLSCKOu-q74SLC-h7r8Y/s320/Slide1.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>This is an interesting part of town. Harbour Island is a little triangle of land that sits between Tampa's mainland and Davis Islands, and it has a cool vibe with its lovely townhouse type condos and rentals and trendy restaurants and shops. It's kept very clean and beautifully landscaped and has the feel of a 'walking' community, especially the promenade along the river.
Cafe Dufrain is pretty and our waiter was gracious and very accommodating. It's the little things you notice, like when after having just cleared the salad plates away I dropped a bit of tomato and a few moments later he glided by and surreptitiously swiped it away without drawing attention to my sloppiness and kept moving. Clearly he keeps a keen eye on his tables. I liked that.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfb4jS8mUu9lfTmDxy0t3ksW7TsSk_HqkiXNoaQZYl6pwzlu_7bz7G64ZbpexWM3WxjSWy1yaPOk5Cn2I0bNXzHgkqBPxNN2T9UnarcxFnfJ1bdH9QPC8P_ogWiLeGfPLz2ax-a5Xa8s/s1600/Slide5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfb4jS8mUu9lfTmDxy0t3ksW7TsSk_HqkiXNoaQZYl6pwzlu_7bz7G64ZbpexWM3WxjSWy1yaPOk5Cn2I0bNXzHgkqBPxNN2T9UnarcxFnfJ1bdH9QPC8P_ogWiLeGfPLz2ax-a5Xa8s/s200/Slide5.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>Since they don't offer a small side salad hubby and I shared the Greek Salad, the highlight of which was the little mound of potato salad buried under it. Hubby was so impressed with it that he ordered an additional side portion. Long a great fan of potato salad, he's taste tested it at hundreds of restaurants in the many years I know him and found most of them wanting. For him the perfect potato salad has a little drop of pickle juice in it and this one seemed to be a winner.
<blockquote></blockquote>I ordered their "Local Shrimp Tacos" with the house-made potato chips....and it was very good with just enough heat from the jalapeno crema and pico de gallo to make my taste buds dance. The chips were well done and not at all greasy and I ate every bit of them.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1w8WNPUZVrNXgWYHfTHOQppGFiOSiPQZ5i013ADXiB-xVQtwqp0piN6-OHLpAIv8CL8jyXwhO_sqOP6RcQ6o9BA9OVFnu5eOMOfPkDiBPcenXswH4r8XFIkafGiJ1URHV0aWTA8bkeWE/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1w8WNPUZVrNXgWYHfTHOQppGFiOSiPQZ5i013ADXiB-xVQtwqp0piN6-OHLpAIv8CL8jyXwhO_sqOP6RcQ6o9BA9OVFnu5eOMOfPkDiBPcenXswH4r8XFIkafGiJ1URHV0aWTA8bkeWE/s320/Slide2.JPG" /></a></div>
Hubby opted for the Dufrain Steak Burger which also came with chips and he enjoyed it. There's not much you can say about a burger except that it was prepared as ordered as this one was and the dressing was tasty.
<blockquote></blockquote>Ken's plate was quite impressive - deep jewel toned slices of Spicy Tuna Tartare with a Wasabi and Sriracha Aioli (the spicier the better for Ken). I'm puzzled why they called it 'Tartare' since it was sliced rather than diced up. In any case it was declared yummy and as you can see the presentation was beautiful.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Yg0KLp6QQQ5yPNKUygfZbMKEHpHeVOSIE1PZ8qqkts8q9FOI7-AySBcaVNk8FiGygGr20v32KTuZDB1ywRLMs-Jmo7uBnR-jjtfvTjlxCewIYw6LFIdbLHYK9OgXSKt1GPqizAFWNAM/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Yg0KLp6QQQ5yPNKUygfZbMKEHpHeVOSIE1PZ8qqkts8q9FOI7-AySBcaVNk8FiGygGr20v32KTuZDB1ywRLMs-Jmo7uBnR-jjtfvTjlxCewIYw6LFIdbLHYK9OgXSKt1GPqizAFWNAM/s320/Slide3.JPG" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>The menu is a little pricy however they had some reasonably priced options and we went with those. Cafe Dufrain boasts that more than three quarters of their menu items are sustainable, organic and/or locally grown, and while this is a noble and admirable effort in keeping with the growing health conscious trend, it does come at a price. They couldn't persuade us to stay for dessert because we were headed to Kaplantown for coffee, laughter and conversation and the most gorgeous bowl of berries I'd ever seen. Look at Cheryl's fancy presentation! It definitely put a smile on my face.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqDZIF3h_B1ZBHW2duzdQYow9-9xhR_BhF4N-O0XaEu6BDdQAlhoDF7zxczIrJWCpMsHgxh_YXx_HyqmBLl8MdPpYZC-bifzlHUSda29ZpmTD_s3yfbFkwW53iE2eDaM6Xao0RKDa6_SY/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqDZIF3h_B1ZBHW2duzdQYow9-9xhR_BhF4N-O0XaEu6BDdQAlhoDF7zxczIrJWCpMsHgxh_YXx_HyqmBLl8MdPpYZC-bifzlHUSda29ZpmTD_s3yfbFkwW53iE2eDaM6Xao0RKDa6_SY/s200/Slide1.JPG" /></a></div>
We'll be heading back to Harbour Island to check out some of the other eateries soon I'm sure. We never get tired of exploring Tampa Bay and all it has to offer.
<blockquote></blockquote>
<blockquote></blockquote>
<blockquote></blockquote><b>Café Dufrain</b>
<blockquote></blockquote>707 Harbour Post Dr., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813.275.9701
<blockquote></blockquote>http://cafedufrain.com
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/cafe-dufrain-tampa" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Cafe Dufrain, Harbour Island - Davis Islands and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank"><img alt="Cafe Dufrain Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17092610/biglogo" style="border:none;width:104px;height:34px;padding:0px;" /></a>
<a title="View Michelle Jolly's food journey on Zomato!" href="https://www.zomato.com/thegreatescape"><img alt="View my food journey on Zomato!" src="https://www.zomato.com/widgets/user_widget_img.php?type=blogrank&city_id=604&user_id=23097347"></a>Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-70313334280518718432016-04-15T06:31:00.000-07:002016-04-15T06:31:46.633-07:00Shrimp Boat Grille<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5b6C-uXTfpuzGfix_e-y8_nFEzDz7nZFXeK5aWrBcPWOUfL4hh8Uv9eMffX3tia2BGWOvNR1IfjxW9Lbap-GH7Byg9ddBrMf9SV3hh42ygtYG97s5X-vERsidvQAbtxnKBL_qg2a_uw/s1600/ShrimpBoatLogoSign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5b6C-uXTfpuzGfix_e-y8_nFEzDz7nZFXeK5aWrBcPWOUfL4hh8Uv9eMffX3tia2BGWOvNR1IfjxW9Lbap-GH7Byg9ddBrMf9SV3hh42ygtYG97s5X-vERsidvQAbtxnKBL_qg2a_uw/s320/ShrimpBoatLogoSign.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>After a long hiatus where our schedules collided and kept us from getting together our gang of eight finally pinned down a Great Escape date that worked for all of us. We had some lost time to make up for and boy did we hit a winner with Shrimp Boat Grille.
<blockquote></blockquote>Several years ago I'd been to Shrimp Boat Grille at it's original location on Lumsden and Kings and although we liked the food we didn't hurry back because the atmosphere was kind of dark and eventually it fell off our radar. But we were delighted to see their beautiful new location on Bloomingdale Avenue. The decor is lovely, warm and bright with a separate bar area that was lit with cozy blue lights meant to draw you in. Business was booming on this Friday night and the restaurant was packed. Our waitress Haley was friendly and efficient and we were treated to entertainment provided by the very talented Ron Cunningham who I learned is there every Friday evening. The music was just right for dining and thankfully not so loud that we couldn't converse.
<blockquote></blockquote>Hubby had Shrimp Marinara over Linguini, a generous portion and one he declared very satisfying (he liked it!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDP9p2P3tDhgx68jHPSbHK0ZIF2NzBzyhqqY_PE0HGVhx7UwTQu80yQxY0X1faoOQQ9JY9g88jaQwJoX48D8HOytq22IJFWl9gbRMtDG30zNRggxaLW8tW04SlQ6j3Y-HrcCTeSQtY0D8/s1600/Shrimp+Marina+AngelHairPasta+AJ.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDP9p2P3tDhgx68jHPSbHK0ZIF2NzBzyhqqY_PE0HGVhx7UwTQu80yQxY0X1faoOQQ9JY9g88jaQwJoX48D8HOytq22IJFWl9gbRMtDG30zNRggxaLW8tW04SlQ6j3Y-HrcCTeSQtY0D8/s200/Shrimp+Marina+AngelHairPasta+AJ.JPG" /></a></div>
I had Grilled Mahi topped with Shrimp and Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce and switched out the Cilantro Rice for the more sensible veggie side (yes I'm dieting again). It was absolutely delicious and I would order it again.
<blockquote></blockquote>Both Kathy and Hollie had Seared Salmon A La Meunierepan topped with Spinach over Cilantro-Lime Rice - but Hollie switched out the Salmon for Mahi. I like when restaurants are flexible enough to make these adjustments. The presentation was beautiful and I'm told very tasty indeed.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOBkMWTXDDvj69xDfDHShoDr6tMDPz1clHreGmBsrCVVaLbgQAMyjOwodk4YH1M1sd4PEJ8j7s8HWdjzns9KuXxE30tEjF7yZqPoJT5wiU3JYFmDKrRUgIUYpM9KMal3Ssua21X6By3g/s1600/GrilledMahiRicespinach.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOBkMWTXDDvj69xDfDHShoDr6tMDPz1clHreGmBsrCVVaLbgQAMyjOwodk4YH1M1sd4PEJ8j7s8HWdjzns9KuXxE30tEjF7yZqPoJT5wiU3JYFmDKrRUgIUYpM9KMal3Ssua21X6By3g/s200/GrilledMahiRicespinach.JPG" /></a></div>
<blockquote></blockquote>Cheryl & Ken opted for Coconut Shrimp, Panko Coated and served with Pina Colada Sauce and a side. I have to say they were the biggest shrimp I'd ever seen! The serving was so large doggie bags were needed. Yum, lunch tomorrow.
<blockquote>All around us I could see nothing but smiling satisfied faces.</blockquote>
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<blockquote></blockquote>Shrimp Boat Grille offers a Four Course Tasting Menu on Saturday Nights and I'd like to give that a try some time. Owner/Chef Al Paone Sr. and his son Al Paone Jr. are offering an exciting menu. I recommend this restaurant and can't wait to return soon.
<blockquote></blockquote>The dessert menu was tempting but we had planned dessert and coffee at our house and after that very satisfying meal we needed the drive time to digest. We indulged in a Publix Cheesecake with Fresh Strawberries and Whipped Cream, served up with a side of laughter while we listened to Fleetwood Mac.
<blockquote></blockquote>1020 Bloomingdale Avenue, Valrico, FL, 33596
<blockquote></blockquote>http://shrimpboatgrille.com/
<blockquote></blockquote><a href="https://www.zomato.com/tampa-bay/shrimp-boat-grill-brandon-valrico" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Shrimp Boat Grill, Brandon / Valrico and other Restaurants in Tampa Bay" target="_blank" ><img alt="Shrimp Boat Grill Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17096353/biglink" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px;padding:0;" /></a>
<blockquote></blockquote><a title="View Michelle Jolly's food journey on Zomato!" href="https://www.zomato.com/thegreatescape"><img alt="View my food journey on Zomato!" src="https://www.zomato.com/widgets/user_widget_img.php?type=blogrank&city_id=604&user_id=23097347"></a>Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5757262856866248348.post-14915042296522302972016-04-13T06:03:00.000-07:002016-04-13T06:03:13.696-07:00TWO LEAVES IN THE TABLE<b>AN EASTER STORY.....</b>
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<blockquote></blockquote>Hubby and I escape every chance we get - it's good for us to get away from our daily routine, to explore new cities, new restaurants, new cultures. But this time <b>I AM THE ESCAPE!</b> That's right....my dear sister and brother-in-law were in town for a few days to celebrate Easter Sunday....just like the good old days.
<blockquote></blockquote>We left New York City twelve years ago to "sort of" retire and enjoy warmer climes. And we do love it here in Florida. But unfortunately we left behind family - son, daughter, granddaughter, sister and of course dear old friends. It's a trade off really, and not an easy decision. We miss them all the time and eagerly await their yearly visits. But this visit was special because it was Easter, and we hadn't celebrated that holiday together in a very, very long time. So we pulled out all the stops.
<blockquote></blockquote>
<blockquote></blockquote>There were ten of us at the table including our cousins who live here in Florida and it was just like old times. The five of us sister/cousins have been celebrating holidays together since we were babies - and it's a blessing to have our families that close throughout our lives. So it was a chance to be silly and wear some outlandish Easter Hats (expertly made by Aida). And of course there was all that food.
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<blockquote></blockquote>Hubby and I decided to go Spanish to pay homage to my roots, and despite his Italian roots he has a real talent for cooking like my mama used to. Here was the menu...and let me give a shout out to Angelo's kitchen bible, a book we bought in Puerto Rico many years ago "Rice & Beans & Tasty Things" by Dora Romano. It is well thumbed and covered with food spills and we love it. (I seriously think he was switched at birth and is really a Puerto Rican disguised as an Italian)
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<blockquote>THE MENU</blockquote>
Roast Pork (Pernil)- Angelo's recipe, tender, flavorful
<blockquote></blockquote>White Rice (the perfect vehicle to complement the beans)and of course, The Red Beans (wow)
<blockquote></blockquote>Grilled Asparagus Spears (my contribution - yes I took the easy way out but I have many other fine qualities - I don't have to cook too!)
<blockquote></blockquote>Sweet Plantains (Maduros) (Goya, Oh Boya)
<blockquote></blockquote>Salads - Martha made a Fabulous Garden Salad and Green Bean Salad
<blockquote></blockquote>Flan - perfectly executed by Grace, the Queen of Flan
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<blockquote></blockquote>Family gatherings are precious and the older we get the more we treasure our times together. Here's hoping we have many more years to celebrate - together! A La Familia!
Michelle Jollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06317462279243638161noreply@blogger.com0