12.20.2010

I've done it again.

This past Saturday we hosted an early Christmas at our new apartment.  It was an utter success!

We enjoyed some tasty "shpritzah's" for the ladies, wonderful conversation, and as always, incredible food.

BUT OF COURSE! I didn't remember to take a single picture of the Wild Mushroom and Beef Risotto.  Or one of the the Honey Baked Ham.  Nor the Garlicy, Shallot, Mashed Potatoes.  The Buttery Brussel Sprouts.  The Golden Sweet Potato Casserole.  & sadly... not one photo was taken of the dessert spread.

I did however, remember to take a group shot. Completely out of focus, while everyone was tearing into the food listed above...


Ah, the joys of Chirstmas.  Love that Vince and Jules popped by for a little enhancement of the holiday spirit!

11.24.2010

Everything is fine...

Fine. Fine. Fine.

Fine Cheese.

Fine Wine.

Source: THE CHEESE COURSE
Ordered: Medium Cheese Platter, Chicken Sandwich, House Chardonnay
Description: Satisfaction, achieved.  Completely digging the long, french, wood tables at this place. Fell head over heels for the blue cheese on the medium platter (will post name later)...  Paired with their roasted, sugared walnuts... I could die.  Best combination I've ever had in my mouth.  The smokiness of the nut, the creamy, distinct flavor of blue cheese... No words will do it justice.  Just give it a go if you love stinky cheese as much as this girl does!  Also, The chicken sandwich was very fresh.  Loved the pesto aioli!  
City:Midtown (MIAMI), FL





10.27.2010

Forgetful

Fear not, for I HAVE been eating.  Lots.  Tons.  All too much.

It's just a simple factor of remembering to take a snap shot of what's been in front of me.

Forgive my thoughtlessness...  Come Halloween I shall return in full force!

<3

Have a wonderful, safe, crazy, food & liquor filled weekend babies!

10.04.2010

Sushi Lifts My 'Mundaze'

Go to Sushi, I love, LOVE, love the carrots in your veggie tempura box.  So sweet, so crunchy!  

Source: Go to Sushi

Ordered: Veggie Tempura, California Roll, JB Tempura
Description: Light, salty and scrumptious!  A little too much cream cheese in the JB Tempura, however this made for a great lunch.  The Veggie Tempura box was my favorite bit.  Asparagus, broccoli and carrots.. FRIED?!  Yes, please!  Slightly sweet and I really enjoyed the blend of textures (crunchy skin meets a soft, smooth center).  
City: Biscayne Blvd, Miami

9.21.2010

Burgers -n- Beer!

Oh Sunday!  I love you.  You are my day to act out.  To be BAD.  To eat whatever my eyes and tummy desire without feeling the slightest pang of guilt.  That's right, you're officially my new "cheat" day.

See.. I've been trying to watch what I eat (thai donuts do not count!) but need to be able to treat myself once in a while.  Which is why I have chosen the last day of my week to indulge and relax before Monday creeps in.  This past weekend my man-meat and I went to visit our good friend (& bartender) at the Burger & Beer Joint.  SUCH a great decision!  Here's what we ordered:



Source: Burger & Beer Joint
Ordered: Sliders with Pepper Jack Cheese, Fly like an Eagle (Helloooo Thanksgiving!)
Description: DEEEELICIOUS!  I love a good cheeseburger as much as the next person.  This place has fine-tuned their burgers which come in MANY shapes and sizes.  With and with out buns!  I tend to reach for the sliders as they don't make me feel as guilty and I love the bite given by the pepper jack cheese :)  However, once I took a bite of the sweet potato fries paired with my man's bun-less, thanksgiving-style burger... I soon found myself wanting to order more! 
City: South Beach, FL


After an iced margarita (or 2), we strutted on over to enjoy a beautiful afternoon on the beach.
I love Florida at the end of summer :)


Flaky & Sweet

..Thinking about my amazing dessert from last night..

THAI DONUTS!

Create your own:
Vegetable Oil
Pillsbury Grands, Flaky Layers
Condensed Milk 



Cut the dough 1/2 way (per biscuit) to create a "V" shape.  Heat about 2-3 cups veggie oil in pan, fry dough to a golden brown.  Cool/drain biscuits on paper towel.  Serve with side of condensed milk for dipping.


9.01.2010

In my own little corner...

"Le Cafe" @ 72nd & Biscayne in Miami, FL


Candles. Books. Mismatched furniture. Art. Soft music. Indulgent Menu. EASILY the perfect place to read a book and relax after a long day.

8.31.2010

For My Ladies...

"La Vieille Ferme"!  You complete me.
Dubbed "Cock Wine" for obvious reasons - can be found at your local Publix for under $15!
I always serve this with an array of cheeses (brie, white cheddar, asiago) when I am entertaning my ladies.

 

8.29.2010

Beer ain't just for drinkin'

"Mmm, Cheekahn"!

Source: Inspired by Chef Lorena Garcia
Location: My oven
Dinner Created: PBR/Roast Chicken & herb/butter potatoes
Description:  So friggin' good! Place an 24oz can of beer inside a whole chicken.  Balance on a roasting pan and season as you wish.  Cook at 400 degrees for 1 hour, 15 min.  Serve with potatoes, corn or side of your choice.  Crispy, rustic & very moist all through out the chicken ;) Mmmmm...

8.27.2010

Around Town Eatery Favorites

Sweet, Sweet Miami.
From guava, cheese pastries to an array of fresh seafood, you are slowly winning my heart.  Surely ones eyes and loins can be easily satisfied by the beautiful (al beit dumb) population... yet more often you succeed in stimulating ALL five senses.  You make it so easy to sit back, relax and enjoy all of your boastful flavors and calming sea side ambiance.


La Playa, Miami Beach

Doraku
Did somebody say COCKTAILS?!  This is Happy Hour at it's absolute best.  Week nights, from 5-7pm you can order from a smaller menu loaded with great items.  It's perfect for dinner before an evening movie as it's right by the Regal Cinema on Alton Road.  It is honestly the freshest sushi I have ever stuffed my face with.. and didn't break the bank!
Happy Hour Favorites:
Lychee Martini, of course!
Ahi Poke
Tuna Tataki
Rock Shrimp (repeat offender)
Wok Seared Edamame
Tuna/Avocado roll, side of spicy mayo


Sushi Samba 
This modern sushi restaurant is just off Lincoln Road and Drexel in South Beach, Miami.  Though slightly more expensive.. I can always count on them to deliver with a punch.  Not only do they have a lovely staff and fun atmosphere, the food kills it.  In a good way!
Favorites: 
Shashito
Rock Shrimp Tempura
Crispy Yellowtail Taquitos
Seabass & Miso Anticuchos
Kanpachi Sashimi Tiradito
Green Envy Roll
Samba 7 Roll
Sake Soy Braised Short Ribs
Whole Crispy Red Snapper

La Sandwicherie 
Adorable, open, sandwich bar off Colins and 14th.  FAST Service.  AMAZING vinaigrette!
Favorites:
Proscuito, Mozzarella with tomatoes, lettuce and black pepper.
Roastbeef & Turkey with most of the fixings.  No olives for this lady!

Books & Books
I love this place.  Clean, chic bookstore in the back, top-notch cafe out front!  Great place to sit outside and enjoy your company while people watching on Lincoln Road... If that doesn't entice you, just come for the sangria ;)
Favorites:
Avocado Salsa
Bernies Starter for Two
Grilled Chicken CLT
Tropical Fish Ceviche
Spinach and Portobello Mushroom Ravioli

Burger & Beer Joint
This place is quickly becoming my number one place to go for  a damned good burger and a naughty time. I  tend to head over here on the weekends with good company for refreshments & dinner. It's a guaranteed good night in the sports bar as you get a hot, friendly staff, loud music, a mixed crowd, and plenty of pool.  What may catch you off guard are the bras hanging from the rafters.  The anal beads dangling from the light fixture.  The blow-up lamb that occasionally makes an appearance for a round of drinks.  Shit, request a "recycled shot" and don't be surprised if you get a nice, hard slap from the bartender.

Have I mentioned how good the burgers are?   Cuz they're damned good.

The main restaurant is more family style and makes for a great day out on Sundays, where you can be sure to see quite a few restored vintage automobiles parked out front for the weekly car show.  I really love the touch of using car parts on the tables (to hold your napkin, condiments) and around the restaurant.  They have a fantastic, mini ice cream parlor and plenty of seating for large parties.  When entertaining my parents, or when in search of a quieter meal, I tend to come to this side of the building.  They also have a very large list of beers to choose from, listed by origin. My palate always requests that I order a Hoegaarden or Stella Artois, and of course, a bucket of their sweet potato fries.  To. Die. For.

I'll be updating my blog frequently with all the things I eat from here...  To try and list favorites is impossible at this time.  

8.26.2010

Passions should be shared.

A Spark.   A Rumble.   A Craving.  
BOOM... Breakfast is served.

Source: Harpoons Diner
Ordered:"Lobster Po-Boy" 
Description: Creamy, slightly spiced sausage gravy smothers a layer of fried eggs and a heaping load of lobstah lumps! - all compiled onto an open face english muffin, paired with salty, fried potatoes.  Needless to say.. I came.
City: Key West, FL