VILLAGE PIZZARIA

Hello Village Pizzaria located at 151 N. Larchmont, in Hancock Park.  It was a short drive through a beautifully tree lined neighborhood with large homes.  The Pizzaria was located on a heavily populated local street.  It felt very welcoming as Herb and I walked in the front door.  It looked busy but we were give a small table next to the door, which Herb kindly sat next to.  People came and went but we were busy eating this delicious pizza.  I thought that I should order cheese but ended up with half cheese and half pepperoni and cheese.  I was in heaven, served hot and with little rounded like cups of pepperoni adorning the cheese and dough to make a complete pie.  I couldn't talk, imagine that?
We both enjoyed our pizza very much.  Herb got two slices of clam and garlic which was a phenonenon.  The clam pieces were the perfect size to taste, yet not over bearing and the garlic was gererous as to blend with the clam.  This was a memorable time and flavor, as not to be forgotten. 

SALADANG

Oh, I was thinking about what other past food experience do I need to catch up with.
 OMG, I should have reported earlier that Saladang is a fantastic restaurant, with delicious Thai food, friendly and responsive servers, and a wonderful, relaxing ambience. 
When I went there the first time with a colleague that I had never shared lunch with, I was immediately relaxed to enter an inviting open space.  The seating was comfortable and modern, with buddha statues and other Thailand replicas annoting the restaurant.  Teresa ordered the pad woon sen, with mung bean noodles, egg, tomato, and bean-sprout.  It was out of this world.  It looked like a compact pattle but so deliciously packed, with punch.  I ordered the yellow curry with potato and carrot in coconut cream, with chicken.  It was rich and done right, with a medium thickness. 
Teresa and I had a pleasant lunch and ended it with green tea ice cream. 
The next time that I went to Saladang I was by myself.  I ordered panang with green peas in cocount cream, with chicken.  It was the real Panang!  It was richly flavored, but not overly flavored.  The consistency was perfect.  I am sad that I no longer work in the area of North Pasadena. 

Dear John

Dear John's is on Washington Blvd. near the 405 overpass, in Culver City.  Bruce picked me up and transported me there, like to another world.  We walked into a welcoming bar/restaurant with large black tufted leather round booths, adorned with a red tablecloth.  The restaurant reminded me of Dick Logan's Steak House, in Canton, Ohio, my family's restaurant, Papa's.  Papa was my Jewish grandfather, Dick Logan.  The family name used to be Lougash, but it was changed due to discrimination towards Jewish people.
Dear John's is a classic, family-feel, restaurant, with great service.  We immediately became comfortable in own booth, across from the piano bar.  After much deliberation, mainly over the appetizers, we ordered the fried onion slivers, and the ceviche.  These two appetizers could not disappointment.  The batter on the onion was very light and delicious.  The size of the slivers took some labor, and delivered.  We were offered ranch dressing or ketchup.  We opted for the ranch.  It was a good choice because of the lightness of the dish.  There was also a salad, but watery from being kept in the refrigerator, I think.  The bleu cheese dressing was thin.
The ceviche was incredible, with it's freshness and delicacy.  The shrimp, tomato, cilantro,  onion, and lemon blended very well together.  Fried tortilla chips accompanied it's side.  They were divine.  I wouldn't let the server take them away after the meal was served.
 I ordered prime rib, au jus.  Bruce ordered the baby back ribs.  He loves them and said that they are both high quality meat with it falling off of the bone, and an ample amount of meat on the bone.  He was right, I only stated that my preference is of a tangier q sauce, instead of the sweet flavor that this rib provided.  As the music switched to "Hey there lonely girl" by Roberta Flack, the singer appreciated my partner's positive response to the song.  As I cut through my prime rib, it lacked consistency in tenderness and flavor.  I would have imagined cutting it with a butter knife and dipping it in au jus like at Dick Logan's.  Oh yes, the knife that they served was enormously large and a pleasure to eat with.  I was more impressed with the knife, than the meat itself.  If I remember correctly, the forks were very little, and unsubstantial. 
This meal and experience at Dear John's was all about being with my friend and sharing time and enjoying going out.

FAMOUS DAVE'S

I was invited to an appreciation day luncheon at work that would include jeopardy games and team building activities.  It was quiet at first, until after lunch.  The food from Famous Dave's was late to arrive.  It was remarkable and memorable, weeks later.  The ribs were very good and easy to eat.  the amount of meat was good but the flavor and q sauce made it.  I was very happy with the ribs.  I don't particularly like chicken wings, I like pork or beef ribs more, but the wings are what sticks to me. 
I still of them today.  I almost went back to Famous Dave's on Thursday when I was working in Palmdale but I have to be in the mood for barbeque sauce.  I noticed this week that Ralph's has Famous Dave's Barbeque sauce for sale, and have two different kinds. 
We didn't experience the greens that day, or the cornbread, like I am used to but the potato salad was great.  It held a good consistency and didn't have too much mayonaise or mustard.  It was seasoned very well, with the potatos cut in the right size in order for the flavors to blend together.  They did it right.  I am beginning to salavate remembering the succulent taste of BBQ at it's best!

Scardino's Pizza

Hi there.  We're talkin pizza here, the original New York style.  A client from when I worked in Pasadena took me here after I assisted in transporting him from the psychiatrist appointment to his home in La Puente.  No one else from the wraparound team could take him. 
The client said that he loves their pizza and gets a cheese slice so that he can taste the pizza more.  I think he was right.  The man behind the counter was Italian, and he was the owner.  He told me that they filtered in the water, like New York has, in order to make this divine intervention, pizza.  It confirmed that it was his family's receipe, from Italy.  Damn it was good, my pepperoni slice. 

Well, I didn't know how good this pizza was until I was invited to the client's graduation including Scardino's pizza and a game of minature golf.  I didn't know how meaningful this fun event with the client and his father was until my own father died a few days later.  I cherish this memory as I look back.   

Almost a year later, I viewed their website and they have some awesome photographs of their pizza, or other dishes.  I reccommend that you seek them out if you are a pizza lover.  They are located at 1627 North Hawthorne Blvd, in El Monte.  As I look at their buisness card the names on it are Guisseppe & Luigi. 

Literati Cafe

I found myself starving again, without food at home and out and about.  I parked in the Ralph's parking lot and went in.  Cautiously I looked at the menu since it is a little expensive.  I felt like I got what I paid for with ordering the tacos.  Oh shit, I did it again, forgot what all was in them.  I was there about a week ago.  The tacos were with scrambled eggs, avacado, (I love it when they serve a big chunck of it) pico de gallo, and bacon.  I love the flavor of bacon.  Of course I added cholula, and they had their own salsa too, much was a good, more tomatoy flavor.  A very flavorful taco with fresh ingredients.  The tacos held together and did not fall apart.  Three tacos looked like too much, but I handled it gladly.  They added a nice sized table to hold the water container with lemon and had a porkupine like fruit rind filled with toothpicks to take their offering of lemon and orange slices.  This had a nice touch.  The young man taking my order and guiding me from the original idea, to the tacos, good choice my friend.  What a great experience.

Hara Sushi

Sushi sounded good, and light, yet nourishing for the brain.  They have half off during the day.  I was turned off to this place from the street, Wilshire, west of Bundy, due to the construction overhang over their building.  It I didn't know is that they were under construction and made the restaurant beautiful.  It has been over a month since I have been there so forgive me for leaving out the details of the decor.  What I do remember is the clean, modern feel that it had.  Rich marble and warm colored wood, if I recollect.  I also remember the bathroom being spectacular, woth drinking water for.  You know they say if a restaurant has a clean bathroom and good coffee, that it probably has good food too.

So I ordered, per the waitress, the pepper seared tuna.  It melted in my mouth and was served with a delicate ponzu sauce.  The yellowtail was equally delicious and fresh but the tuna stood out.  I believe I also ordered the salmon, but that one sake might have affected my fragile memory. Oh yes, here are my notes written on the leaf embossed paper placemat.  The salmon was smooth and buttery, melts in your mouth.   At this point I was feeling really good.  Working part time does not allow the regularity of frequenting the local cuisine. 
Felipe helped to enhance my experience with his expert attendance to my table.  He was friendly and eager to work, seemingly enjoying his job.  I went back since, with a friend, and like Felipe told me, the place really gets hoppin at night.  I couldn't believe how many Westsiders arrived after we did, but it was a Friday night.
What came next was divine, the albacore, it's delicate rich flavor hinting of garlic.  To photograph this would have been appropriate, to show off it's amber colored sauce of ponzu mustard seed.  I was licking my fingers. 
Three more tables are escorted to their tables at 3:00p.m., I sign of a good restaurant this late in the day.  

As I write this post and look at Hara sushi's menu I see I piece of rice stuck to the paper, kinda gross, yet lightly amuzing.   I will definitely go back to this restaurant, but not on a Friday night.  Oh, by the way, the young waitress are wonderful and genuinely nice.

TOFUYA

Tofuya is a Korean restaurant at 2021 Sawtelle Blvd., just north of Olympic on the west side of the street.  I have been going there for years but only seem to get the craving a few times in the year. 
Today I am in tofu heaven.  I ordered the seafood soon tofu. 

I have eaten the dolsot bibimbop + soon tofu.  It is rice topped with vegetable, beef, & red pepper paste in a hot stone pot with a side of soft tofu stew.  That is exactly what this soon tofu is, a tofu stew. 
This order is a whole lot of food that shouldn't be wasted, in fact savored.  The six stainless steel dishes hold the assortment of classic Korean delictable edibles.  They served bean sprouts, baked tofu, kimchi, broccoli, cucumber, and glassy noodles.  Each has it's unique flavor. 

Today everything was fresh, as I remember.  We all know that something that gets refrigerated tends to become watery and less flavorful.  So today instead of ordering my usual kimchi soon tofu, the waitress (whom I knew from Ramenyams restaurant where she used to work) suggested the seafood and the dumpling.  Dumpling could be a little heavy, and since I hadn't tried it before I didn't order it. 

As the hot stone pot came to my table I was asked to assist me in cracking the raw egg into my stew.  I gladly accepted. 
OMG, I was in tofu heaven.  The firt bite was of the clam and boy did it give the stew a great flavor.  The stew was a red color, rich, and spicy.  The flavor, again, of the clam was delicate, yet rich. I loved it.  Since I like to eat my food hot I ate quickly.  The dish was very hot but I blew on the spoon in order to enjoy it.  Three quarters of the way through,  I felt an explosive finish on my tongue.  I don't know what happened but the oyster was so hot that I burnt my tongue, and that was six days ago.  I burnt some taste buds away at the tip of my tongue.  I will know better next time. 
They say that the definition for insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results. 

MY TACOS

In Highland Park on York and Figueroa you can find my tacos tucked into a mini-mall next to a Chinese buffet.  I don't think twice when I can go to My Tacos.  There Mexican food is most authentica.  The burritos, my favorite, are stuffed with an even amount of rice, beans, meat, and pico de gallo.  You can taste everything equally.  Most mexican joints on the west side skimp on the carne and add beans and rice to fill the burrito.  Their salsa lacks in my opinion but their salsa bar rocks other than that, with radish, roasted peppers, carrots & onions, cilantro & diced onion, (cebello) and three salsas, ranchero, hot, and verde. 
Their rojo enchiladas are very good too.  Yet since then I have made killer pollo enchiladas at home. 
I can always count on a very good, consistent burrito here.  Although, I must branch out and try their various other dishes.

TALAY THAI

Hello my Thai friends at a lovely small local restaurant just above the 405 freeway on Santa Monica Blvd.  Talay Thai is fairly nicely appointed, just needing a little attention to detail, and with the pleasant music, it will be great.  I parked my car in the parking lot behind the restaurant. I felt like I would be hit walking in as a red car sped to the upper parking spot.  Perhaps they were late to work. 

I chose a table where a young man beside me was coughing and coughing.  I changed my seat to a dusty region, where I moved once again.  I moved to another table when I noticed that the closet door holding the cleaning supplies was opening up to my table.  I finally moved one last time where the waitress had to move about 15 menus from the table.

I settled in and ordered pork fried rice.  It was delicious, moist, and with many vegetables.  I finally found a restaurant that serves good fried rice, which you would think to be an easy task.  I find that Chinese restaurants lack a moistness, added by vegetables, and egg.  A lot of restaurants seem to skimp on the egg and over cook it, leaving it dry.  Thai restaurants seem to do a better job. 
I told the waitress, Tan how happy I was with their fried rice, and she got a big smile on her face.  She said that she would tell the chef that the customer found the best fried rice in town.  Of course I put alot of chili paste on the rice and always use chopsticks, except maybe not at the finish, to get every morsel. 

A little expensive for a lunch out at $7.99 but a large serving, enough for one more meal. 
I will come back for the lunch special, making sure that it's not the weekend, since they don't offer the special at that time.  Even though someone else ordered the lunch special on Saturday, that's okay, they food is good enough to allow them wiggle room.  Yet, it certainly had it's challenges in getting to the rice, but nice, nice, nice.  The music is pleasant, and the decor is good, it just nice some TLC.  And Tan, you rock!

La Islas Mariscos

I was recommended the taco truck in Venice, West of Rose Avenue.  There was small line, especially of men, around 12 o'clock.  I ordered one carnitas taco and one carne asada taco for there.  They were out of carne asada so I chose chicken.  They packed up in foil to go so I didn't get the radish and lime.  I was disappointed.  In tasting the tacos, both had nothing spectacularly outstanding.  I was disappointed again.  Perhaps I could try again next time, if I dare.

L A FARM RESTAURANT

It was October 2nd.  I was a little nervous going to an upscale restaurant by myself, but it was a Monday night and not too busy.  I purchased 500 miles of my United frequent flyer miles for a $25.00 meal gift certificate in order for it not to expire.  It seemed like a good solution for a time sensitive issue.  I dressed in a skirt and arrived promptly to valet.  As soon as Christian took my car I felt relieved not having to park it and then find the restaurant.
 
I was welcomed warmly at the door with Lauren and Dominico, my waiter.  He stated that he is an expert chef himself, making several dishes at home.  At first notice when I entered I saw the cool slate floor, against the warm wood wall. I commented on it's beauty and Lauren proudly stated that it was recently installed.  The wall color lacked warmth or connection to the rest of the decor but Lauren said that it was also soon to change. 
When Lauren took me to my table facing an open wall with windows to the hallway there was another patron sitting by himself.  After chatting about Lauren's recommendations, he stated that his name was Ricardo, and that he was from Central America, Panama specifically.  I said that I just saw the beautiful beaches of Panama on the HGTV station and that it looks lovely.

After reviewing the menu I ordered something different than I anticipated.  I had previously read about the oysters, and the halibut, but they weren't recommended.  I didn't even see the halibut on the menu. 
What was recommended was the lamb with polenta and the steak frittes, which I was going to order up.  Since the gift certificate minimum was $35.00, I could therefore splurge on appetizers.  I thought about what would would compliment the steak.  The menu had other dishes that were all particular flavors, not blending well with my combination.  I thought that the truffle pea arancali could be delightful, anything with truffles is good, right?  Two fried balls nicely browned came to my table.  A creamy delight, perfectly browned, creamy inside, with the right amount of peas, to taste them.  A good way to begin.

 I was left with ordering the brussels sprouts instead on the previously planned asparagus.  They came with pine nuts, which I didn't like at all.  It seemed too heavy and not seasoned or cooked well enough to enjoy.  Dominico graciously brought it back, removing the pine nuts and adding balsamic vinegar, which was an improvement, still no raves. 

My new friend across the way, Ricardo Alfonso, noticed the breeze of Creedence Clearwater Revival streaming through the speakers.  They sang of the Bayou, when I mentioned that I had a friend that I recently lost, that was from there.  This seemed to strum up a conversation.  I spoke of Woody and his birthday past.  I felt his energy when I first walked into the room.  He said that he used to go to Agape across the street, before it moved to Culver City, and has been enjoying this restaurant ever since. 
He had beautiful grey dreadlocks, said he was a physician and that I did not agree with giving people a specific date of death.  I agreed saying that it makes humans playing God.  He had present eyes, there was a kindness shining through his them  While we exchange telephone numbers he said that maybe we could come here again.  He shook my hand firmly.  Ricardo told me that he maybe we could come here again together.

I love the large knife.  Six pieces of steak sliced with great melting garlic butter blotted onto the cut slices of meat, the liquid reducing.   Yum!  A splash of watercress sat on the top.  I really enjoyed the watecress flavor, it offset the richness of the meat reduction.  Laura glanced over my way, with her dimpled cheeks, and warm smile.  She came over to see what I ending up ordering.  She liked the scallops, the carpacio, and I forget what else, sorry.  That's what happens when you don't write the blog right away, after the experience.

I begin to melt into this experience.  Of course now a fly landed on my rack of bread.  Flies always seem to find me.  As it became dark I could barely see to finish my meal.  A fire pit was lit next to me, surrounded by a leather open sofa.  It was warm and inviting.  A young boy came up and glared at the flame of the light for quite a while.

I was finished and ready to go when Dominico said that he wanted to bring me a lollipop for dessert.  It's stick was carefully placed a lucite square, firmly holding a red wine with chocolate stripe.  I enjoyed this immensely.  When I returned to my car Christian and I spoke of some of the traditions of his country.  The moon was half full and the sky clear.

KAREN'S KITCHEN #2

Who would imagine that from the street you see a diner sign on the white wall, in black letters in a mini-mall, almost deserted looking and to find a cute, little neighborhood diner.  I am at 840 West Palmdale Blvd. in the city of Palmdale.  I was instantly impressed with the warm customer service.  The restaurant looked very clean.  The hostess told me that the soup was made fresh daily, as well as the biscuits. Today's soup was abongidas soup.  I am not a fan at all but decided to try it as my side dish.  I ordered the tuna melt with American cheese on rye bread.  I took it to go and went back to my workplace.  At first Ididn't see the soup container and thought that they forgot it but to my delight, it was carefully placed into the styrofoam container. 

Three weeks later I am still remembering these tastes, which were all superior.  The rye bread especially, with the rye being especially flavorful and with a good texture.  Later I learned that it is Jewish rye.  The tuna was delicious, with the mixture blending very well and forming into a good patty on the rye bread.  It was cooked perfectly, with a nice browning on the outside, providing a satifying crunch with you bite into it.  I tried the hot soup first, and it was so good that I just keep eating it until it was gone.  The broth was pretty clear and delicious.  It had carrots, onions, and meatballs.  The meatballs were not too small, but a perfect size to taste and devour.  They were delicious.  Albongidas is now my favorite soup, but I'm afraid, only at Karen's Kitchen #2.

Their menu also serves up country lunches including: chicken fried steak, grilled pork chops, of liver & onions.  They have a mean lookin hobo express with onions, bell peppers, and hash browns, fry them up and then scramble in 3 fresh eggs, served with hot biscuit & gravy.  Of course they have grits too.
Coming from Ohio this restaurant satisfies my country soul. 

I went back to Karen's last Thursday.  They were out of the rye bread, no wonder, it was so good, and no not wonder bread.  I had the sourdough bread, yet it lacks the great texture that the rye gave to the sandwich.  They had chicken noodle soup today.  It was a good meal but paled a little in rememberance of the first experience.  The gentleman that came to our table at the end of our meal seemed to make up for it with his kind spirit.  He was blonde, handsome, and friendly.  He smiled in appreciation to receive such a compliment.  I will go back soon to try their omeletts, which not too many restaurants know how to prepare well.  Some have it looking like a scrabble mess. 

Tasty Wok Chinese Fast Food

TASTY WOK rates supreme.  It's high quality chinese food is at 11628 Santa Monica Bld. in West Los Angeles, east of Barrington.  The new owner does a great job of making good, fresh food, or as fresh as you can get with fast food.  They take pride in their restaurant by caring for the food upmost, but the appearance of the restaurant, and their customers.  My plate came plump, and full-sized.  I had kung pao chicken that had ample pieces of chicken and a good selection of vegetables and peanuts. 
The fried rice was also with many vegetables, peas & carrots, and moist. 
With a two item meal I am sated, and most importantly, I felt great after eating this meal.
Thumbs up!

Renewed Experience

I had to have another restaurant experience in order to get the bad taste out of my mouth and mind from the Lazy Daisy.  I went to Sian Chan.  I have been going there for over ten years and with maybe two different owners.  Today was the best experience of service and food taste and presentation.  I wished that I would have brought my camera.  The plate was full and consisting of a small porcelain dish containing the ginger chicken, the green salad, white rice, and an egg roll.
The ginger chicken was incredible.  There were many nicely sized pieces of chicken in a vegetable laden aromatic bath.  Delicately sliced ginger, scallion, and black mushroom, in a rich, clear broth.
The mushroom added texture to the dish and the crunch of it was delightful.  I think the mushroom made this dish come alive.
Surprisingly, the white rice was superb.  It was plump and a little sticky, perfectly cooked and delicious to eat by itself, or to add chili paste.  I let the egg roll cool down and now I took a bite, after dipping it in the sweet sauce.  It was so fresh, a great size, and filled with more great vegetables.
I saved the large sized salad for last in order to savour the hot ginger chicken dish.  It was the right idea.  The salad was refreshing with it's coolness and peanut- dressing, especially after eating hot food.  I couldn't compliment the waitress enough.  Their service and spirit were contagious, responding with gratitude and loving kindness.  More than I ever expected from a lunch special meal.  Oh, yes, I forgot to say that the lunch special was over 15 minutes after I arrived, but after asking for a grace period of time, they agreed.  Thank you Sian Chan for healing me from an earlier in the day disappointment.

Lazy Daisy Fits It's Name

When I tried to communicate to the waiter that I enjoyed a good omelet, and what did you recommend.  I also stated that I don't go out much since I am unemployed.  He began to recommend several different categories and not mentioning the omelets, somehow glazing over what I had just said.  When I redirected him he then named the three of four omelet choices that I could read myself.  There was nothing to make them stand out, so I asked what ingredients were fresh and good.  I mentioned the chorizo, sausage, and spinach.  I said that I though their omelet list had too many ingredients in them, confusing the palate.   When I mentioned that I could make my own with three ingredients, he said yes.  I ordered sausage, mushroom, and spinach, adding cheddar cheese.  With my bread choices I asked if it was their rosemary, or ? bread that they were known for.  He didn't have a clue.  After realizing that I ordered four items I asked for the waiter to see me so that I could delete one item.  My food was then served by another server.  I took one bite of the potatoes and they were cold.  When they brought my plate back after warming, it was missing the toast.  Noone came to ask if I liked my food.  I saw the waiter but he was busy outside with one or two other tables.  The place was quiet.  When I asked the waiter where he went and that I needed his help he retorted that he was on a break.  He assured me that he left others in charge.  I said no one came over to me.  He then had the gull to say that he had other tables to wait on.  I got mad at this comment and said, "so I am not important".  Then I went into the need to ask about the fourth item and how I didn't  want to spend additional monies on it and couldn't change it due to lack of service.  He said" everybody that eats here knows how many items and how much and that's the going price around town.  Now I was really angry because he couldn't just say that he was sorry and move on, or maybe offer me a free drink.  The lady that took my plate earlier  had a conversation with the waiter and another person on the side bar, and now I really felt uncomfortable.  The omelet was very good but at this point I couldn't eat it without getting heartburn.  I sat quietly and patiently for some time when he came over to give me the check, not asking to take it to go.  So when I requested to take it to go that I wanted to finish it at home, still no apologies, just packed me up to go.  This was probably one of my worst customer service experiences ever.  It reminded me of Hell's Kitchen show where the staff is observed and they are appalled at the attitude that some of these servers give their customers.  What happened to the day when, the customer is always right.  I didn't treat myself to a breakfast out to get into an argument with the waiter.  Lazy Daisy fits it's name as the waiter leaves the customer to go take a break.  I only wish, that service like this, he takes a long break, away from the restaurant and service industry.

Ramen Jinya

I''m at Jinya Ramen Bar, finally.  After reading Jonathan Gold's review in July's LA Weekly.  It's on Sawtelle Blvd., South of Olympic, by Marshalls.  I ordered the tan tan men ramen.  It has a distinct flavor, nutty, a little peanuty.  The tan tan men is a classic dish, originating from Japan.  It is served dry, without broth, which was differnet for me, and I missed the broth it a little.  It is served with ground pork, tokyo negri, which I thought gave it the spicy heat.  Later I found out that tokyo negri is merely scallion onion.  It's the chili oil that brings on the heat of this dish.  The flavor is one that I may crave later or totally forget about.
     Their spicy miso tonkotsu or spicy chikcken ramen is something that I would try in the future.
The size of the noodles vary from thin to thicker, more traditional ramen style.  Miguel was a helpful, friendly person.  When I first walked in he was attentive, and described the menu to me.  When I went to wash my hands prior to the meal I saw Jonathan Gold's review in a glass frame, on the wall.  Out from the kitchen came Victor, whom I chatted with, sharing a love of food, and life, what a pleasure!
     When I returned to my seat Miguel said that he brought me a salad with delicious miso dressing, to try.  My dish is really quite rich, perhaps needing an acquired taste.  It is accompanied by bok choy, red bell pepper, placed diagonally on top of the meat.  It was a pretty presentation and the red pepper added color but the taste did not fit with the other ingredients.
     Leaving, I met Shiyon, the kitchen manager, whom has personally met Jonathan Gold on several occassions, at events.  He spoke of the gold standard that Jonathan uses to give his, so called, stamp of approval.  Jinya has it's first restaurant which is in a city that I forget the name of, sorry.  Giovanni said hello also and when I shook his hands they were the softest.
The food was as good as the friendly staff, perhaps even better.  Bravo!

Rosemary's Grill

Follow the messages and signs that the day reveals to you.  The two friendly, and helpful woman that work at Massage Central in the mini-mall on Santa Monica Blvd. where Rosemary's Grill is, highly recommended their food.

I walked through the doorway to enter Rosemary's to notice a lucky horseshoe carved into the floor.  I knew that I was in the right place.  I ordered the barley soup in honor and memory of the recent passing of my father.  He loved a good hearty barley soup.

Love at first bite, with the barley soup.  It's beautiful presentation, with rich golden color was very appealing to the eye.  The soup's taste was most delicate, and with perfect texture.  It had nice heat from the spices.  It was layered with many spices; cumin, coriander, pepper, and cayenne, with a sliver of parsley on the top.  I added salt for my liking. 

I am used to a deli barley soup, heavy thickness, with no love added to it.  Rosemary's soup was not too heavy, and with generous helpings of love and care.  You could tell by the small diced carrot, and vegetables, along with the taste.  It was very delicious and I can still remember it. 

Rosemary's has been open since April 9th, and Rosemary's son Sam and her husband, (forgive me for not asking his name) do the cooking in the kitchen. 

They are open late, and 7 days a week, wow!

After following my new friend’s recommendation, I see perhaps my father lead me here, just over the barley soup.  I can’t wait to come back to Rosemary's Grill where the vibes are as good as the food.

Veggie Grill/The Perfect Indulgence

I had one my best experience at the Veggie Grill on Wishire Boulevard, about 20th Street, in Santa Monica.  I have gone there since they opened, maybe over a year ago.  It is a chain health food restaurant.  I ordered the chili but it was not hot, only lukewarm.  It was a healthy chili, with kidney and pinto beans in a rich tomato sauce.  It had just the right amount of seasonings.  There was a small dizzling of sour cream on top, with scallions.
I hate to complain, but the waiter said, "we aim to please".  He even waited while I tried the fresh batch.  Piping hot, and it's looks changed a bit.  They added diced red onion, which didn't blend well with the scallion.  It was served with a fried pita chip.  This time it came with white and black poppy seeds laying ontop, sprinkling everywhere when I took a bite.  There were so many seeds on the table, the floor, and my lap, that I started to laugh.
I ordered one of my favorites, sweet potato fries, "they are the bomb".  I love the spicy hot chipotle  dressing that comes with it.  This time it wasn't as spicy.  I was advised to ask for the spicy vegan mayo the next time because it was made with fresh chipotle chilis.
The family that I met next to me added to my day.  I had guessed what the little girl was having for lunch, mac n cheese.  She didn't confirm that I was correct, but her Dad did.  After they finished eating she came in my direction, surprising me with a hug.  When I asked what the hug was for, she said, for guessing".  Her older brother then engaged with me about mango tea with the strawberry lemonade.  He was right, it was a winner.  He reached out and gave me a hug too, when I was leaving.  So sweet, leaving a good feeling with a good meal.

Chutney's Indian Fast Food

Chutney's Indian Restaurant has been at Pico and Barrington since 1984, if I remember correctly.  I have frequented the restaurant in the mini-mall submerged in between  La Flama Tacos and Subway.

It was my second day of eating hot and spicy food in order to stabilize my internal thermostat due to a Southern Los Angeles heat wave.  The time before, when I was there I stepped on chewing gum before I entered and was complaining about it when the owner greeted me with a warm and welcome smile and I instantly felt better.  He is always super nice.  I enjoy watching Indian television of dancing or comedy shows on his flat screen television.

I ordered the lunch special which is ridiculously inexpensive.  They finally raised the price from $2.99 to $3.49.  You get a quarter of a chicken, nan bread, and green salad. Today's visit was exceptional because everything I tasted was perfect and the suggestion of the iced chai tea added to the meal so much!

My first bite was of the nan and it was hot, just from the oven.  I dipped it into the sweet chutney first and poured the second one on my green salad adorned with strips of crisp, fresh, onion.  You get both a green salad and a corn and shredded carrot salad, both very refreshing.  I poured the chutney made of cilantro and yogurt on it.  My next bite was of the chicken leg.  Oh my God, the chicken had a wonderful crisp to the skin and the meat inside was so tender, juicy, and piping hot.  I savoured each bite and ate the chicken down to the bone,  like my Dad taught me.  My Dad used to say, " the meat is sweeter near the bone".  He was always right, and owned a restaurant himself.  I enjoyed this simple meal so much, if someone watched me they would think that I hadn't eaten in a week.  I felt completely sated after this meal and look forward to going back.

MY RECENT BURGER

This is my recent burger. I am always in search of a good burger due to my past finds in South Central Los Angeles. My burger is simple, yet satisfying. I used Emirl's seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and a dash of worcestershire sauce.


One of the secrets to a well tasting and formed meat patty is to knead it in your hands, back and forth, forming it into a nice, fairly thick round patty. It is happy then. It's kinda like a massage, lots of love goes into it.

I like my burger medium rare to medium. I fry it in a iron-cast skillet and toss it onto a warm traditional bun. I top it with a nice sized wedge of cheddar cheese, and head lettuce. A little ketchup and mustard and I am in heaven.

I do like this simple burger but a couple of years ago I made a more textured burger with a crushed triscuit and habenero chili that was out of this world. Let me know if you liked this blog, I will send "textured" burger receipe. Happy Eating!

MY FAVORITE PHOTO, HERE IT IS, THE GORDITA!

Cocina Dona Chon in Huntington Park, on Florence Boulevard right past the railroad tracks was my favorite place for Mexican food.  You can read my earlier blog on my experience there. 

But where did this picture come from all of a sudden, found in my draft.  I am so happy to see it on this blog. 

So I say, was my favorite Mexican food because since I left that area I am experiencing other local Mexican cuisine in West Los Angeles, like TacoMiento.  I wrote a review on Yelp and it didn't save somehow.  They make very good burritos.  They even had a large silver pot of hot beans and a good salsa bar.  All the ladies and men that work there are nice and helpful people, especially Lucio.  They do like it you you try to speak in Spanish to them, like I do.  They seem to get a kick out of it.  I actually got a compliment from a customer last week.  Ever since I found it on Gateway I try to go every week.  I eat my burrito for breakfast the next morning, leftovers, then I don't feel guilty about spending money outside when I am unemployed.

A TASTE OF BANGLADESH
At first bite the flavors were foreign to me. I heated up a chicken leg, white rice, and a potatoe paddie. The rice has substance, it is full, with texture and flavor. The rice could be a meal on it's own. The rice intrigues me, the aroma, jasmine?
Something earthy, close to the earth, with the warm heat of the spices. The generous chicken leg needs to be savored with each bite. It's remarkable how many different layers come out in this dish. The flavors keep poppin like the 4th of July. I love it! Delicate, yet bold, a taste of Bangledesh.
OMG this potatoe paddie is heavenly. It's consistency is firm and holds together well. It is more spicy than the chicken. The heat doesn't overpower you though, it has a rippling, lingering effect.
Lipi's labor of love pays off in dividends. Lipi's happy spirit is in the food.
I was wrong about cucumber slices or yogurt, which would only take away from this delicious memoriable dish.
I must confess, when I eat rice I think of the starving children in the world and don't want to waste a grain, using my fingers to finish each morsel. Thank you Lipi, bravo!

PLAN CHECK

AN EXPLOSION OF FLAVORS
I didn't plan to visit Plan Check Kitchen + Bar , but I was hungry and had an inkling that this was going to be a good experience. Today was the restaurant's one month anniversay, opening on February 22, 2012. The first thing that hit my culinary senses when I walked in the front door was the swell smell, (of what I thought to be) barbeque sauce. I glanced at the menu the nice maitre'd graciously handed me. To my delight, I saw that burgers were the theme of the restaurant.

Burgers are my all time favorite, and beginning my burger adventure 7 years ago in South Central, I hadn't found any to compare, finally, a delicious burger! I ordered the Chef's Favorite from my hostess Rachel. She recommended cooking the wagyu (Kobe) meat at medium rare. Did you know that wagyu has less cholesterol, and therefore takes less time to cook.

If looks could kill, the fried egg on top of the burger looked plastic, it was so perfect. My first bite the yellow youlk of the egg gushed out onto the small round cast-iron skillet that held the burger. This burger had a different flavor, more sophistacated than most. The melted cheese was delicious, and memorable, American, parmasean, dashi, and a cheddar chrisp, accompanied by two strips of substantial bacon, yum! The burger had a good sesame bun. I had only wished that it was all served a little hotter. Their keketchup is hand made each day. It has a sweet flavor and good texture.

I also tried the spicy cucumber, with sriracha , and sesame. I loved it's crunchiness and different flavor coming from the srirachi's heat. It sticks with me. The french fries pailed, in comparsion, to the cumcumber.

After hearing from a man standing at the table behind me reccomend the Cruller donuts, I promptly ordered them. The Cruller donuts are cruel indeed, deliciously lavished in cream and bananas, also hand made daily. There is a lot of love and care in thid kitchen and bar. The warm hospitality I was shown made for a wonderful experience. Stay tuned, next time I will take my camera and add photos.