tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82146988608264331402024-03-14T02:17:19.152-07:00I Have No SecretsRestaurant reviews by a homespun foodieFrank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-27042084386493139802016-02-14T12:28:00.001-08:002016-02-14T12:28:55.020-08:00Chopstix Gourmet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I must apologize for the infrequent posting here. It is not that new and exciting places have not been visited needing review, it is that I have gotten complacent about writing reviews. I am hoping to change that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love dim sum. The daughter of a (American)Chinese restaurant owner told me some top secret tips. Hello??? How is it top secret if you are telling me???</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was told this is where the Chinese restaurant owners go to eat. I was also told that because I was white, I might be the only white guy there. The best part about what I was told is that no one knows about it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SBy3ttOvA4YIwzCMh4doI5EGV03EQMrRV3NkKqiAPt7hLF1yhvFp7E1e9z6WCFSyxIEuu4WmNHjiPrb4b9fBzm2DGzAFZ4_hC86D-_nv6fUuCGcPq4FmVJ-3nxSOA0twGb19lqPap-HQ/s1600/IMG_0992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SBy3ttOvA4YIwzCMh4doI5EGV03EQMrRV3NkKqiAPt7hLF1yhvFp7E1e9z6WCFSyxIEuu4WmNHjiPrb4b9fBzm2DGzAFZ4_hC86D-_nv6fUuCGcPq4FmVJ-3nxSOA0twGb19lqPap-HQ/s320/IMG_0992.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Located at 1201 67th Street, Rosedale Maryland, in a light industrial complex is Chopstix Gourmet. It is kind of easy to find once you get past the labor union hall, the oxygen distribution facility, and the industrial fasters distributor. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHvbJ9ySo_FoBQ6Y1JdUw9w9KzOA2EjaUgDn8NmEvdL464yy3ZYNyU8YYlqFzSie0bQMORse8OPVF4xKM85b8auhf-SFnUx65KlPS3b49fHDzcbSu_f8WacBXYpSq_kM4qBgEg6QaLyUj/s1600/IMG_0991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHvbJ9ySo_FoBQ6Y1JdUw9w9KzOA2EjaUgDn8NmEvdL464yy3ZYNyU8YYlqFzSie0bQMORse8OPVF4xKM85b8auhf-SFnUx65KlPS3b49fHDzcbSu_f8WacBXYpSq_kM4qBgEg6QaLyUj/s320/IMG_0991.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You go in this entrance. Around the right side is an indoor parking garage. You can catch a shuttle to the Horse Shoe Casino from here. Go, gamble a while, return for a meal, then head back to double down. I didn't come to gamble, I came for underground, restaurant owner dim sum. I came to find out about the top secret dim sum parlor of east Baltimore.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05sKmcabPWzP2plByOY9iFb5iNqfkcFgAgM8V9QGE8OZkUwKw04bHHb67o9Np2pLU3IXygom0S5lH_UYEwrOIBjVTLFErYpu1D2PYEVrsfB9Ev_zVZGajr0FGV5yf0hHUtDHUdFcD1SVe/s1600/IMG_0990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05sKmcabPWzP2plByOY9iFb5iNqfkcFgAgM8V9QGE8OZkUwKw04bHHb67o9Np2pLU3IXygom0S5lH_UYEwrOIBjVTLFErYpu1D2PYEVrsfB9Ev_zVZGajr0FGV5yf0hHUtDHUdFcD1SVe/s320/IMG_0990.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When you enter, do not get confused by the long hall way that looks to go no where. Just keep walking even though your confusion is telling you you are lost and this cannot be the place.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMl01PiZgOD4JuzCaKXZyHCTuhJWXVGxx-FnhZYCgK3RBLgLceyYqzxhwJe_Q9aUWkZSLcyLJap6X3vA1iHHewzurH2tYWpWV7ARNgs78K5mZXuVEmCjJVeRHxhXGe4hJNnuMHGagyFUZe/s1600/IMG_0984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMl01PiZgOD4JuzCaKXZyHCTuhJWXVGxx-FnhZYCgK3RBLgLceyYqzxhwJe_Q9aUWkZSLcyLJap6X3vA1iHHewzurH2tYWpWV7ARNgs78K5mZXuVEmCjJVeRHxhXGe4hJNnuMHGagyFUZe/s320/IMG_0984.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now it is looking familiar. I must confess I have a new way of judging a place; I go to the bathroom before I am seated. The bathroom here was sparkling clean. Actually the entire place was. This is rather contrary to the worn out, tired status of just about all Chinese restaurants visits with exception of <a href="http://ihavenosecrets.blogspot.com/2014/02/hunan-taste-catonsville-md.html">Hunan Taste</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBF-fYLNyWTjWzBk2lLCT92tv6uCuhblMBsqMYlXvPlSKc6ravYVWw7DoG3lw1jbOHg7Wm2qJgiG7VKKL5VubhDmXTjNnGWtobBwX2oW1fRxI_CGMTUe6IHMQt2f4GBlpHRwflwrCyxLk/s1600/IMG_0983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBF-fYLNyWTjWzBk2lLCT92tv6uCuhblMBsqMYlXvPlSKc6ravYVWw7DoG3lw1jbOHg7Wm2qJgiG7VKKL5VubhDmXTjNnGWtobBwX2oW1fRxI_CGMTUe6IHMQt2f4GBlpHRwflwrCyxLk/s320/IMG_0983.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We came to eat but would be remise in saying this place has some fantastic fish tanks and pond set ups. Make sure you take the time to walk around and take them in. They are above door ways, as room separations, and as feature displays. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAyoMkpURHVcmnK9-oM6qa3ch_2spEtySCuLNa6FNJZ_BLy5Jtuhf8N8XM5QvkVC6rSRBedlewOpgnBXMFqmiFAOGVHDvYNhgWDzYlJJG7j_B0k5NfIdzzjtUYyJXiGGqKI8feSxXdITB/s1600/IMG_0988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAyoMkpURHVcmnK9-oM6qa3ch_2spEtySCuLNa6FNJZ_BLy5Jtuhf8N8XM5QvkVC6rSRBedlewOpgnBXMFqmiFAOGVHDvYNhgWDzYlJJG7j_B0k5NfIdzzjtUYyJXiGGqKI8feSxXdITB/s320/IMG_0988.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This place is no secret, it feeds hundreds of people in a day, I am just late in hearing about it. There are multiple dining rooms all filled to the rim with diners. This place is not only where all the Chinese restaurant owners come, but all their friends and their friends too. I was far from the only white person there. There were people of many ethnic groups dining there. One thing that is typical of this place is that it is incredibly busy. The staff moves at a frantic pace but is ever so attentive to the few moments they give you. I did noticed they do not show you everything on the cart unless you make them. It is assumed you will not want the chicken feet or fishballs(balls made of fish not balls of the fish) in curry sauce. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsGjGpmaOwnjPllWqq0hWaFw0notBzumWTinwuDLaZTCEt3T8LQItlQoxF95LIJysWnpLC1PMXrHOu4MitgwvJKMb9mwk4fOTlrtviHURWeWgPCU5SU4DBDcR9yJjZcF_n86ixKaF2BmYm/s1600/IMG_0985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsGjGpmaOwnjPllWqq0hWaFw0notBzumWTinwuDLaZTCEt3T8LQItlQoxF95LIJysWnpLC1PMXrHOu4MitgwvJKMb9mwk4fOTlrtviHURWeWgPCU5SU4DBDcR9yJjZcF_n86ixKaF2BmYm/s320/IMG_0985.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Usually the first few carts fill up our table because we cannot help but say yes to everything. We tried something different this time to force pace ourselves; one item, per cart at any time. I highly recommend doing it this way. The ladies behind the carts are not so happy, they want you to take as many as they can offer you. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I must say that everything we tried was better than any place we have had dim sum before. I am not an expert by any means, but of the 18 or so places we have had dim sum, this was the tastiest yet. Even the tea was better than any place we had been before. Nothing was unique. Nothing on the menu was different than anyplace we had been before, but everything just tasted so much better here. My only real complaint was that the selection of items was not the greatest. Perhaps were were not shown everything, but none the less the selection was rather limited. It was incredibly busy when we walked in. It kind of thinned out after we sat down, then got busy again as we were leaving. Perhaps the offerings increased with the next wave of people.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4b_BGxxFdpVgMNC5A5zl9PTBlvWnAPZ5_EU7j6VZqgM-3FDIhZga3udbG_x1Lo2WpVN7eoXcPqyx-eOeO10Ko6TcIXHar35MqABk-Iqz8zaIn6ou2A1rP8wbZMptlKAjEISwaZ7Z6eA4Z/s1600/IMG_0986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4b_BGxxFdpVgMNC5A5zl9PTBlvWnAPZ5_EU7j6VZqgM-3FDIhZga3udbG_x1Lo2WpVN7eoXcPqyx-eOeO10Ko6TcIXHar35MqABk-Iqz8zaIn6ou2A1rP8wbZMptlKAjEISwaZ7Z6eA4Z/s320/IMG_0986.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Two items I must rave about; </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To the left is a soft rice noodle sheet stuffed with roast pork. Some places call this a crepe. That sucker was intensely good. The pork was just so tender and flavored strongly. It was just the best thing we had. I kept hoping for the shrimp version of it to come around. It never did. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To the right is something I see in just about every dim sum place. I suspect it is an Americanized item closely related to General Tao chicken and egg of young and having nothing to do with China proper. It is a shrimp ball wrapped in bacon. It is fried. Anything wrapped in bacon is good. The shrimp ball filling however is very good on it's own. At most places the filling is just shrimp. Here it has more, it has great mouth appeal. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I should also say the beef short ribs in black bean rocked. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The chicken feet were awesome. Fairly meaty.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The turnip cake was fair. I like a little more pork and a little more crisp to the outside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The beef tendon tasted great but had a texture that just did not sit well with me. We tried it, but would probably avoid trying it again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuv0-gYp-rFvBgj0qmZ2fZMdnml4v7hXNUcZXvR4z9VrOCbqNfxVO9Tydw2rSxWlSeQMM3gp-UU0xQOlSXzZcwotjzUeLIPc8jGp5QXsIGzNdPTJxoSCFtAPt7DEeznxVixaF0XshlDAx/s1600/IMG_0989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuv0-gYp-rFvBgj0qmZ2fZMdnml4v7hXNUcZXvR4z9VrOCbqNfxVO9Tydw2rSxWlSeQMM3gp-UU0xQOlSXzZcwotjzUeLIPc8jGp5QXsIGzNdPTJxoSCFtAPt7DEeznxVixaF0XshlDAx/s320/IMG_0989.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She is giving it a big thumbs up. We will be back again very soon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-32499530514918906372015-03-15T11:00:00.000-07:002015-03-15T15:09:44.541-07:00Asian Court, Ellicott City.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzH4WTXU0oRqLEgwNGtROXwfJyntj45s12Yx6p648ZirddI6rpNDqEY6uBPDb3xu0CA1Dlt8kOfBMhceR4BtHwz-XdIrJpI1bGYIgY66eMnZkm0OmjS7Vr03RFvI9qrV_kfZU_rU77IL8E/s1600/IMG_20150315_114720_014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzH4WTXU0oRqLEgwNGtROXwfJyntj45s12Yx6p648ZirddI6rpNDqEY6uBPDb3xu0CA1Dlt8kOfBMhceR4BtHwz-XdIrJpI1bGYIgY66eMnZkm0OmjS7Vr03RFvI9qrV_kfZU_rU77IL8E/s1600/IMG_20150315_114720_014.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Asian Court is located at 9180 Baltimore National Pike in Ellicott City, Maryland. Asian Court is known as a Chinese restaurant for Chinese people. Their menu is very ethnic and foreign to many who frequent a typical Chinese restaurant. We have eaten here about a dozen times in the past few years. Places that serve dim sum are few and far between in Baltimore. Needless to say, China Court is a very popular place because of this. I believe it must have been featured in a review recently because usually the crowd is mostly Chinese. Not this Sunday, it was about 50/50. We arrived early to beat the crowd but even at 11 am it was completely packed and the wait was at least 10 minutes for a table(30 by the time we left). We were seated at a booth right next to the reception desk. This posed a series of issues I will lay out for you. The first issue was that every 10 seconds the door opened and yet another family squeezed into the already packed waiting area. The wind would whip right in and hit us. This forced us to eat with our coats on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5fDtJzZZXQKm04-QVADl4eF8BF3CPWA-4kA7wARrCaHJqUd5CEwSUvFrxEkvWR00Slj6ypS9KrVM_FeXJxYN_Csf6aaeHHbOzc90QkY3Nywj9I-T7-IB-J-S5LEkDOMY9LLmz6iq_X-C/s1600/IMG_20150315_112737_628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5fDtJzZZXQKm04-QVADl4eF8BF3CPWA-4kA7wARrCaHJqUd5CEwSUvFrxEkvWR00Slj6ypS9KrVM_FeXJxYN_Csf6aaeHHbOzc90QkY3Nywj9I-T7-IB-J-S5LEkDOMY9LLmz6iq_X-C/s1600/IMG_20150315_112737_628.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="text-align: center;">Another issue with our table, was that the carts barely ever came by. After the first cart came with virtually nothing on it it was a full 20 minutes before we ever saw another one. During that time the fork and the glass of water we requested for our 7 year old never came even though I politely asked three times. Eventually I just got up, walked across the room and helped myself. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVw_ftMEZDVrDsy_LIE7zsFd-1_dMhLvh_Ku-VSaId87hQIKd2aO7AYHmS9dvSyoi4n_ehxkDb3BnwLHYp9D_zqSyel0dh_bmv1oHNgT5gTAyunj2aWtQYCSMpdFA-viPnPI9s8ykBgxE/s1600/IMG_20150315_112541_397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVw_ftMEZDVrDsy_LIE7zsFd-1_dMhLvh_Ku-VSaId87hQIKd2aO7AYHmS9dvSyoi4n_ehxkDb3BnwLHYp9D_zqSyel0dh_bmv1oHNgT5gTAyunj2aWtQYCSMpdFA-viPnPI9s8ykBgxE/s1600/IMG_20150315_112541_397.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then all the carts came at one time. And went right on by our table.</div>
<div>
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTP3bXV44H54QmHKM-OfdfEL8bYm-Tk-RrQ2nDFNMkbow5ff5TnVgdFrgKDJXafD_oBxRwW_LhfRohLJTy7s4FAZ5utcIl5Mzo6G7UcR-AagiSMLQbXhGLRskPSald35AiVT47MMmTFLC/s1600/IMG_20150315_114156_128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTP3bXV44H54QmHKM-OfdfEL8bYm-Tk-RrQ2nDFNMkbow5ff5TnVgdFrgKDJXafD_oBxRwW_LhfRohLJTy7s4FAZ5utcIl5Mzo6G7UcR-AagiSMLQbXhGLRskPSald35AiVT47MMmTFLC/s1600/IMG_20150315_114156_128.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They could not see us however because the crowd waiting for tables were literally blocking us from the rest of the room. The next booth in had the exact same issue. I had to stand up and wave my arms above the crowd to get the ladies to see we wanted service. At one point the crowd pushed in so close that a husband and wife sat there butts on the edge of our table. I jabbed the man's butt with my chopstick to point out the rudeness of his actions. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Previously, we have had a fairly good experience at Asian Court. We have looked past the grimy interior. We have pretended we did not notice the filthy bathrooms. When a dirty plate or glass was put on our table we have always politely asked for a clean one. We even pretended not to notice that the Chinese patrons are served and seated first, this is an ethnic restaurant, you expect that to some degree. Unfortunately, this time, our experience could not be over looked. We will never return to this place.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rating 1-5? 0.5 </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am sorry to my readers. I never panned a restaurant like this. It was however a very bad experience. I would hate for you to have the same experience.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-57131144158287876512015-03-12T16:49:00.000-07:002015-03-12T16:49:10.513-07:00Papi's, FellsPoint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiCAelaAfLtcaPWlMx0blFAWNGd-uQU5Z84St9mIY-FXrGgnNijpdeoVUFJrm021GEaR71T12yPzKf8TwGzxdWjLbanniCvE3Y8KG5bqSaZHzUEOLR8M7oRXIhsDNpz85WY50l9BZE2L9F/s1600/IMG_20150310_180256_392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiCAelaAfLtcaPWlMx0blFAWNGd-uQU5Z84St9mIY-FXrGgnNijpdeoVUFJrm021GEaR71T12yPzKf8TwGzxdWjLbanniCvE3Y8KG5bqSaZHzUEOLR8M7oRXIhsDNpz85WY50l9BZE2L9F/s1600/IMG_20150310_180256_392.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Papi's is located on Aliceanna Street at Broadway Avenue right in the heart of Fells Point. It is very easy to find. Unlike most Mexican restaurants in Fells Point, Papi's is for the hipster, 20 something crowd. You are not finding any day labors enjoying a plate of mixed pork street tacos here. It is gourmet street tacos and expensive margaritas.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJSGNFItkTubteAsoLPyg0HUQYy0xrXTkNVi2MjD9RR96m_iu8v2x2PuouzpMkIkyGCcyI2svORTvttqvZwbxzoKKXcL-bYiW13clDtFOKStjS0Cf_qiJRCACaIHfbngV73skSw2trRfky/s1600/IMG_20150310_182944_260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJSGNFItkTubteAsoLPyg0HUQYy0xrXTkNVi2MjD9RR96m_iu8v2x2PuouzpMkIkyGCcyI2svORTvttqvZwbxzoKKXcL-bYiW13clDtFOKStjS0Cf_qiJRCACaIHfbngV73skSw2trRfky/s1600/IMG_20150310_182944_260.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beef short ribs street tacos.I kind of chuckle at the thought of that. Hominy as a side dish. A roasted jalapeño pepper. Mezcal margarita. It was all good, it just comes off as overly produced.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmCfSeP6RDoll3j-3yp-tqSz3r0M5mmSFF8ZztF1vJrnVM4Rn4-26EJaOA6Fd_77o0QH7v3Hl2ORpaB9HDB9XWjqCLnEBmRGROW02ebL_wQPKifJhqpIfeuliAVmo_SHQBdz4hQNiaDb4/s1600/IMG_20150310_183012_384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmCfSeP6RDoll3j-3yp-tqSz3r0M5mmSFF8ZztF1vJrnVM4Rn4-26EJaOA6Fd_77o0QH7v3Hl2ORpaB9HDB9XWjqCLnEBmRGROW02ebL_wQPKifJhqpIfeuliAVmo_SHQBdz4hQNiaDb4/s1600/IMG_20150310_183012_384.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shrimp tacos. Maggi sauce. Prickly pear margarita. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Would I return? Yes, if Cynthia asked us to meet her there again. Would I go on my own? No, there are great street tacos for 1/5th the cost within blocks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3.5 of 5</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-66610490472561561362015-03-06T16:16:00.000-08:002015-03-06T16:16:06.180-08:00Fiesta Mexicana<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8aP4VFdOPTYteF3x6s6A77Jo-fj7WaddGFH-imopdXcjR8GVqJi_7McMhC1GMdyBdTcqIwqcKrcCkKEZga6GvvXx43DNh4JCNP_FUyvYyXnvKQZTfBUorySPlAS48stCNAdEXIvBkzDjc/s1600/IMG_20150306_112602_923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8aP4VFdOPTYteF3x6s6A77Jo-fj7WaddGFH-imopdXcjR8GVqJi_7McMhC1GMdyBdTcqIwqcKrcCkKEZga6GvvXx43DNh4JCNP_FUyvYyXnvKQZTfBUorySPlAS48stCNAdEXIvBkzDjc/s1600/IMG_20150306_112602_923.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fiesta Mexicana located at 8304 Philadelphia Road. That's Rosedale Maryland folks. Don't blink as you go by since the place does not really jump out at you. Nothing on Philadelphia Road does.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWh4NmDIjtsfRd5ZRWJsQoKiovmSQMGs16ACFJKvQsG9tDWhLHsnHyTeVuzSY4zUQf4Gzvrqa8f1f2XGtLjtKRDLQXWwReJrg0o81VmL5KEwI-ddUzAxr416BuOSTjsoXXx7srEMbdSZIi/s1600/IMG_20150306_113007_887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWh4NmDIjtsfRd5ZRWJsQoKiovmSQMGs16ACFJKvQsG9tDWhLHsnHyTeVuzSY4zUQf4Gzvrqa8f1f2XGtLjtKRDLQXWwReJrg0o81VmL5KEwI-ddUzAxr416BuOSTjsoXXx7srEMbdSZIi/s1600/IMG_20150306_113007_887.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The interior does not really jump out at you either. The owner however is a very colorful guy, extremely proud of the food his restaurant puts out. The comida is typical of Ciudad de Mexico.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNwqxz5d8vrF6MVbEjre1oUg9COb-YuIcuVSyGuiHGYio1xxsXE3uxO5qsj1_R15gnnuwEVi4wJvk_tj_yhrqZxPK1VlUvw9xdymPFueaHFPv1ib0TmGJEvaWAOXVkxbzIEAARKoqHQCS/s1600/IMG_20150306_113055_308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNwqxz5d8vrF6MVbEjre1oUg9COb-YuIcuVSyGuiHGYio1xxsXE3uxO5qsj1_R15gnnuwEVi4wJvk_tj_yhrqZxPK1VlUvw9xdymPFueaHFPv1ib0TmGJEvaWAOXVkxbzIEAARKoqHQCS/s1600/IMG_20150306_113055_308.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I usually expect a little grocery sideline in places like this. They just do a few Mexican candies for the kids and the food. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkcxYMm2XMYFnP0bcpnGU-XN9gkm2RSssL4ONO1TLugT6mZCqe_KBifg2f0Xb7fVux7zjPGxfnhY46w8RrhDbIqNampAhjh-hxJC9nZEC791bu7fD9_uTcXv6lU2WYBuMx3dYEWIW1hls/s1600/IMG_20150306_115201_503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkcxYMm2XMYFnP0bcpnGU-XN9gkm2RSssL4ONO1TLugT6mZCqe_KBifg2f0Xb7fVux7zjPGxfnhY46w8RrhDbIqNampAhjh-hxJC9nZEC791bu7fD9_uTcXv6lU2WYBuMx3dYEWIW1hls/s1600/IMG_20150306_115201_503.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The decor is simple but clean and well organized. I did not come for the organization or the clean kitchen, I came for the food. I was handed a menu but said, "No, you surprise me. I want a good lunch" The only question was 'you like hot?' </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjuaV8l3nlOan2kbNm02kJaE5xxWH84KweBhOtpvDPXihVxzWeO6IImnZ-SNUHIWuJCKULV8nTA-1IiTURnydx8HvhmhG_6XKOf72nZ3Ol5wAMA4x5nQeDQ3yiZDfrnpKXrwWkoZIQbkaj/s1600/IMG_20150306_113904_956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjuaV8l3nlOan2kbNm02kJaE5xxWH84KweBhOtpvDPXihVxzWeO6IImnZ-SNUHIWuJCKULV8nTA-1IiTURnydx8HvhmhG_6XKOf72nZ3Ol5wAMA4x5nQeDQ3yiZDfrnpKXrwWkoZIQbkaj/s1600/IMG_20150306_113904_956.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Out came three tacos, a bowl of beans, and a cup of salsa. The first taco was tinga. This is chicken stewed with red chilies. I have had tinga a number of times but never has the chicken been so tender. I put a bunch of that salsa on the taco. Not only were my taste buds doing a happy dance but I was sweating a little too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3OUeU2xCJl40uFYjB5iel4Cyt59jgD8RcPHStwjH-XwoxxtWJF4DUYGFqvt8slYhbHaft13_e0ATYUAHqfRGaYbmm-vxsC3OaLMSZZFiCpjDfZqPjY_6xx8J27iKqOzr9jloBckbgv_Qo/s1600/IMG_20150306_114019_364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3OUeU2xCJl40uFYjB5iel4Cyt59jgD8RcPHStwjH-XwoxxtWJF4DUYGFqvt8slYhbHaft13_e0ATYUAHqfRGaYbmm-vxsC3OaLMSZZFiCpjDfZqPjY_6xx8J27iKqOzr9jloBckbgv_Qo/s1600/IMG_20150306_114019_364.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next up was chorizo. I don't know if it was home made chorizo but It was very good. I do not usually go for chorizo. I did not order it so the surprise was a welcome thing. The salsa had me sweating here again too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjGVVcDqZHpGRmMOnkCMCtfJ2yI4c8_WGHc561f6DyPiZq1_Psy6GLUHWdwTyljx-LLIkcgAo0rfxUVfjM4ZyQn6LPD5qursoCYxQiq8sJNBW4hG1qaOu6uydaLTEfz_TMmJvWyQxy9UE/s1600/IMG_20150306_114246_579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjGVVcDqZHpGRmMOnkCMCtfJ2yI4c8_WGHc561f6DyPiZq1_Psy6GLUHWdwTyljx-LLIkcgAo0rfxUVfjM4ZyQn6LPD5qursoCYxQiq8sJNBW4hG1qaOu6uydaLTEfz_TMmJvWyQxy9UE/s1600/IMG_20150306_114246_579.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last up was a taco bistex. That is Mexican(no derogatory intended) for beef of some sort of cut. Laying with this delicious beef were two slivers of roasted green chilies. I once again added some of that salsa. I needed a second sweat rag due to this almost costly discretion. The green chilies were hot in major way and I was on a capsicum trip for about five minutes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOj0xmAtEADr_d4FkJQ4Gzhaq6o-rUCiy6XpUi6QKlpGX65_WOnkVWbsXksO38VUFrm0g3YNwQjpmAktWpgp7wnIDnM8Mv42f7tzq5BuaVCGAHjDsb1p1qsrGqd9inNGURZon0PS8VPxg/s1600/IMG_20150306_115212_574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOj0xmAtEADr_d4FkJQ4Gzhaq6o-rUCiy6XpUi6QKlpGX65_WOnkVWbsXksO38VUFrm0g3YNwQjpmAktWpgp7wnIDnM8Mv42f7tzq5BuaVCGAHjDsb1p1qsrGqd9inNGURZon0PS8VPxg/s1600/IMG_20150306_115212_574.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some highlights of the meal; That salsa. Wicked good stuff! This is manly stuff, not for the faint of heart. Your going to break a bead of sweat eating this stuff.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgis1G8yXNA2q9QXkrFzcO5EbDiRYd6x5S7HxR-EQg8OfQft8_tutu2tFw9RqUeKKf-my6ddrAMJhLWhg9XImnXd-2pMh5PddybyemxEkIIw4i1JnUg5Eb5rQwDzjNxd2DQ3PZwo8ERNY3O/s1600/IMG_20150306_114236_559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgis1G8yXNA2q9QXkrFzcO5EbDiRYd6x5S7HxR-EQg8OfQft8_tutu2tFw9RqUeKKf-my6ddrAMJhLWhg9XImnXd-2pMh5PddybyemxEkIIw4i1JnUg5Eb5rQwDzjNxd2DQ3PZwo8ERNY3O/s1600/IMG_20150306_114236_559.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have to talk about those beans. I have eaten a lot of beans in my life. I have eaten a lot of black beans for that matter. These black beans were the best I have ever had. Seriously, they were beyond good. You think I am joking?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd-4ENY_2JECIlZd4eCxErsHEV6gMq1COx6EoFI7dVmkwHhfKiLZzt30gZbbtT94GqizccmMEPysLp7MbPX15CiOZcHAFFu5D8FAXeau2af2n1GDhBmDGSHfw2fL-RnOe3nFXFO0corYdR/s1600/IMG_20150306_115206_270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd-4ENY_2JECIlZd4eCxErsHEV6gMq1COx6EoFI7dVmkwHhfKiLZzt30gZbbtT94GqizccmMEPysLp7MbPX15CiOZcHAFFu5D8FAXeau2af2n1GDhBmDGSHfw2fL-RnOe3nFXFO0corYdR/s1600/IMG_20150306_115206_270.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rating? Solid 10</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-35509903088236963152014-02-05T17:11:00.000-08:002014-02-05T17:11:18.736-08:00Hunan Taste, Catonsville MD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I will first apologize for the quality of images in this post. I did not have my camera and instead used my phone. My phone is not a camera, it is a phone. The first image is also not mine, I lifted it from a Tripadvisor review of this same restaurant.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjY96MjQoHglk-6vR94DIhS54yE08Jadclwkl3OYNvstQI_sdGWRLHGFFvKpPs8RAribzaV-Pc4e_Ay87aMheNPCU58e9ItKdvjqu3rafJwUC-uJqyah75ZmASQQdOfSlbnGbnQIh1pfbE/s1600/hunan-taste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjY96MjQoHglk-6vR94DIhS54yE08Jadclwkl3OYNvstQI_sdGWRLHGFFvKpPs8RAribzaV-Pc4e_Ay87aMheNPCU58e9ItKdvjqu3rafJwUC-uJqyah75ZmASQQdOfSlbnGbnQIh1pfbE/s1600/hunan-taste.jpg" height="312" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hunan Taste has been a long over due review. We have eaten here well over 40 times since it opened a few years back. That statement alone is a review in itself. I have a frequent diner card, so I will try not to show any bias.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hunan taste is located in the very busy H Mart Plaza at 718 North Rolling Rd or Route 40 and Rolling road. I say very busy as a note of caution. The drivers in this parking lot are generally oblivious to other drivers or pedestrians. Many are still becoming accustomed to driving in America. Do not let this stop you. Do not let anything stop you from coming and trying this place out. In Baltimore, this is my favorite place to eat. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When you walk in you will notice a few things that sets this place apart from your normal Chinese restaurant; It is always spotless. Your host is always dressed in a fine suit and greats you in a sophisticated manor. The decor is very sophisticated and inviting. It is always bustling with diners. Just about everyone is Chinese. All the wait staff is very professional and unobtrusive. All the wait staff have American names. There are two menus, and this place gives you both. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Seven of us gathered for a meal the other night and we were all adventure eaters. We ate family style.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8EL4jKR5F36uNZuvwxV5pUDJn7DbyHiYMBKouXmgYVNk7hsod39VyfwLSUFqt5MMasCspywbqL5ky7cAaAlV0jSAHTjmcYITuirkzze1UiSjzvLBSfe6agd_7rq1V0ieU36SHRKx2lO0g/s1600/IMG_20140204_192707_286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8EL4jKR5F36uNZuvwxV5pUDJn7DbyHiYMBKouXmgYVNk7hsod39VyfwLSUFqt5MMasCspywbqL5ky7cAaAlV0jSAHTjmcYITuirkzze1UiSjzvLBSfe6agd_7rq1V0ieU36SHRKx2lO0g/s1600/IMG_20140204_192707_286.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We started with two appetizers. The first was Pigs Ears. It was incredible to look at. It tasted equally as incredible. Very tender and delicious. It was not what you would think pigs ears would taste like. If I were to put it in front of you, not telling what it was, you would have no clue. You would just think it is tremendous. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbD_1PuTGOyLHMc3H8g4ic6OHkyiHDhiBLkerBDLwHyOUdSJNcB-L9B1yKkaTHHlOh1QSPUixvCAK6ckK1URRcFkTvjNetYdruRvGsU4vltd3nLVBkvU0s9ZYXBn694PchwuzbP0QR7nNW/s1600/IMG_20140204_192717_653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbD_1PuTGOyLHMc3H8g4ic6OHkyiHDhiBLkerBDLwHyOUdSJNcB-L9B1yKkaTHHlOh1QSPUixvCAK6ckK1URRcFkTvjNetYdruRvGsU4vltd3nLVBkvU0s9ZYXBn694PchwuzbP0QR7nNW/s1600/IMG_20140204_192717_653.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The second appetizer was Garlic Pork Belly. Incredible. Nothing more needs to be said.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM3Tb6EpXlcFnoHGyhp7y6IBy-9YohKT2umzjVzH2I5BndHM-VKo9eFM4SLTrm5BceJH9_KTGCKrlGp9iCx0jJw8sYgUuIQLQ-rZ7iG1_3bg2fNY2z0I-bBO_Tz6xJUAj0O_r95K8LFYkp/s1600/IMG_20140204_194448_092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM3Tb6EpXlcFnoHGyhp7y6IBy-9YohKT2umzjVzH2I5BndHM-VKo9eFM4SLTrm5BceJH9_KTGCKrlGp9iCx0jJw8sYgUuIQLQ-rZ7iG1_3bg2fNY2z0I-bBO_Tz6xJUAj0O_r95K8LFYkp/s1600/IMG_20140204_194448_092.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had Twin Lobster. Two lobsters fried in garlic. Incredible once again. The one negative thing I must say is when the lazy susan went around the first time it was moist and succulent. However as it sat, the meat got kind of dry and crispy. I recommend eating it all when it arrives at the table.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE04q53ZOLnxeYtYbnaChvNFxYWG9hrycmG1h8G7H4X5qyxJJuPVMOULmbtvA7Lc74b2FULEaGYg6sln_Y2avG5mroW7NxcXSvD5pUMquF9GPVFHt9HIjx0QVb-q7F4fuHDnV9Z1aRpkX5/s1600/IMG_20140204_194429_987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE04q53ZOLnxeYtYbnaChvNFxYWG9hrycmG1h8G7H4X5qyxJJuPVMOULmbtvA7Lc74b2FULEaGYg6sln_Y2avG5mroW7NxcXSvD5pUMquF9GPVFHt9HIjx0QVb-q7F4fuHDnV9Z1aRpkX5/s1600/IMG_20140204_194429_987.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had Dry Green Beans and Pork. If you want to feel you are getting your vegetables, order this. The pork is a nice touch to a vegetable side dish.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYrT5_fGC-Bx8z7YUM8_DNGvNUIXDF-PuLhYZX-j64Zn1e5rKycMyDUW5czJg78NbVE0QlfhZwsKVhPTHbyJyKdZHqMFM5O-ViZ3-2LMF-_2YT2nL_i6dDCGX6j2i-QpD_7uYd3yFKsUH/s1600/IMG_20140204_195740_799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYrT5_fGC-Bx8z7YUM8_DNGvNUIXDF-PuLhYZX-j64Zn1e5rKycMyDUW5czJg78NbVE0QlfhZwsKVhPTHbyJyKdZHqMFM5O-ViZ3-2LMF-_2YT2nL_i6dDCGX6j2i-QpD_7uYd3yFKsUH/s1600/IMG_20140204_195740_799.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There was Whole Perch Hunan Style. I had the head. One of my dinner mates was a little shyer than me and I beat him to it. I love the cheeks and head meat. The combination of flavors was tremendous.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Missing from these photos is Pork in Incense Mint. This was a texture dish. The pork was twice cooked, the second being fried, so it was kind of chewy. The meat had excellent flavor to it. It was on a bed of crispy fried mint. The mint was so beautiful, looking like bright green glass. Unfortunately the mint did not have any taste and was more of a texture because it shattered in your mouth. Of all the items, this was my least favorite dish since the mint failed to have the flavor you thought you might get from it. I did not however dislike this dish.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-ml1HQ4AUVFXSSftKFM4WaYG7yG49f4C0mwMgfvPwCS36b6owhHWBVUmaiiGRTJQ7b8ZgyeqsM414SLgcl3v1b4NYnHR-9BylA2PcpuKtMJLgAhEoHSdzKuFLPIGQKcwrKrngrB_GcBb/s1600/IMG_20140204_202115_105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-ml1HQ4AUVFXSSftKFM4WaYG7yG49f4C0mwMgfvPwCS36b6owhHWBVUmaiiGRTJQ7b8ZgyeqsM414SLgcl3v1b4NYnHR-9BylA2PcpuKtMJLgAhEoHSdzKuFLPIGQKcwrKrngrB_GcBb/s1600/IMG_20140204_202115_105.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chefs always look for empty plates. Empty plates mean the food was so good it all was eaten. Every plates were empty.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3Wzg-Z9i2a3Gi6YMto93bWFPP3DjLmQEpX4pIaulshoXU5SMk5FlSvWHHugdAQbk-7SzFPxSj1h9Q57jmuQXZLz58JMxVG5Bl3FcRhAYmVkUVsTDXvofgDaophawULvQ68pzai3vwFga/s1600/IMG_20140204_202144_984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3Wzg-Z9i2a3Gi6YMto93bWFPP3DjLmQEpX4pIaulshoXU5SMk5FlSvWHHugdAQbk-7SzFPxSj1h9Q57jmuQXZLz58JMxVG5Bl3FcRhAYmVkUVsTDXvofgDaophawULvQ68pzai3vwFga/s1600/IMG_20140204_202144_984.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you want really good Chinese food, come here. Do not come here for General Taos Chicken, Egg Foo Young, and Lo Mein. This is real Chinese food for Chinese people. All the food has incredible flavor, intense Hunan heat, and items you have never tried before. Come, be adventurous and try something you never have seen before.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On a scale of 1-10... a rating of ELEVEN.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-24492210802274465502014-01-14T18:04:00.000-08:002014-01-14T18:04:06.541-08:00El Agave, Catonsville MD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvZBAlvZd_mt-jZAvVkDh4ez61g-AUdI7jXa8mk-SuJGmquXYzGyYnVMR_PsL9mrWNo6zfpweRvSQ0NKi0p-Y6Kma4ovYyA2qrGibMGD2e8eRtdV3QW4fojqSbnSInYY09bDcEejg5yD3/s1600/P1100643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvZBAlvZd_mt-jZAvVkDh4ez61g-AUdI7jXa8mk-SuJGmquXYzGyYnVMR_PsL9mrWNo6zfpweRvSQ0NKi0p-Y6Kma4ovYyA2qrGibMGD2e8eRtdV3QW4fojqSbnSInYY09bDcEejg5yD3/s320/P1100643.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Catonsville has a new Mexican joint. The restaurant has been open just a few months and seems to be very popular. Everyone loves Mexican, what's not to love. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQMhCwjKwb5_w1dE9J_QnZ3EaieDpEtjwLr7jMWBMTsLa5B0Gy3Mif_VtnlDhT762C7fA2FkqWHmtFaoFsw0Q8gV9ci_sDgH3wiN15va_0sJIVtH7URBzPksXJh8qS0-8v5fY5-RqVkPsA/s1600/P1100642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQMhCwjKwb5_w1dE9J_QnZ3EaieDpEtjwLr7jMWBMTsLa5B0Gy3Mif_VtnlDhT762C7fA2FkqWHmtFaoFsw0Q8gV9ci_sDgH3wiN15va_0sJIVtH7URBzPksXJh8qS0-8v5fY5-RqVkPsA/s320/P1100642.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The space has been a few different 'package goods bar Inn' type joints over the years. The new owners have really changed it up. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-bjoI4dfOrgVHDb7p6HA5RsOZnW4rg6lVfIht7o98DOj9cXWgnf5LhEb34fL5doz2oyq7vCpXVw2fRSNPqdbsfNTebroI338nhx4vQbvsiNbU6CqfTtTwj5DfjJcOBQoa6JNgQ7Jt1Yy/s1600/P1100647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-bjoI4dfOrgVHDb7p6HA5RsOZnW4rg6lVfIht7o98DOj9cXWgnf5LhEb34fL5doz2oyq7vCpXVw2fRSNPqdbsfNTebroI338nhx4vQbvsiNbU6CqfTtTwj5DfjJcOBQoa6JNgQ7Jt1Yy/s320/P1100647.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The decor is bright and cheerful. The entire place is sparkling clean and very inviting. If you are a sports fan the bar area has a number of big TVs with some game going.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQfYwjL4CZ2u5g0IQXqQXIV-rRxFGpjiGNS6rVAvK5EPuzhUSpdkEe6i2HQUTe4w6kIVeBtNk_o_5u31lXPxUPptrCTaR0nEWSAdTjg8aOHINw3tlhjixA9qSoJT8glEp4LL4ikGxTf5G/s1600/P1100664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQfYwjL4CZ2u5g0IQXqQXIV-rRxFGpjiGNS6rVAvK5EPuzhUSpdkEe6i2HQUTe4w6kIVeBtNk_o_5u31lXPxUPptrCTaR0nEWSAdTjg8aOHINw3tlhjixA9qSoJT8glEp4LL4ikGxTf5G/s320/P1100664.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We got some guacamole. It was very, very good. Most times I dread when my wife orders it because hers is so good. El Agave's held pretty strong. The salsa that came with the chips was good too. It was unusually light and fresh tasting. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Mb06OtgkSOY2YIUSALD-WkLHRubuRz4Vthutgl8Kq1rjlOqnNFbsJljFDQnrhe4XIqa9-V87yVtFhF3RktgJSQg9t0YEwW1MTc9FF3TcGqKbiR_1_ZivWEzh4s6jSdVhS5ZnBQeHbC0a/s1600/P1100649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Mb06OtgkSOY2YIUSALD-WkLHRubuRz4Vthutgl8Kq1rjlOqnNFbsJljFDQnrhe4XIqa9-V87yVtFhF3RktgJSQg9t0YEwW1MTc9FF3TcGqKbiR_1_ZivWEzh4s6jSdVhS5ZnBQeHbC0a/s320/P1100649.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Halle loves any place with a mango jarritos. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuRb-C56ar4YLzJxswZN4W0E549x7kvHR3UT8l2sxMis15r4MvdGQfwQK4B8X3Ig1cQOsBCmMru7FBrOBwYzo7nUv4u_VvHUO3rf0TudRTAclmwUh9lzcWYoATO9hBO6UX9dxNTp-Y6qw/s1600/P1100652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuRb-C56ar4YLzJxswZN4W0E549x7kvHR3UT8l2sxMis15r4MvdGQfwQK4B8X3Ig1cQOsBCmMru7FBrOBwYzo7nUv4u_VvHUO3rf0TudRTAclmwUh9lzcWYoATO9hBO6UX9dxNTp-Y6qw/s320/P1100652.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have to say that the margarita was better than most. It was strong and did not have a ton of ice in it. The bar tender knows that tequila makes the customers happy and generous.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQfw30FWnEEmhqS3j3ZYCnQxPqlOYizSQfOSiT88DwF5wAenL1jKXZRCtXSvmLx8GYoJApw_jfkpvfMBY4GsXvQPEM4oKSuMwePSD7tEpNagiLEAixhQUKXSWAPlevPNhCc0h7Fd6qy-wT/s1600/P1100657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQfw30FWnEEmhqS3j3ZYCnQxPqlOYizSQfOSiT88DwF5wAenL1jKXZRCtXSvmLx8GYoJApw_jfkpvfMBY4GsXvQPEM4oKSuMwePSD7tEpNagiLEAixhQUKXSWAPlevPNhCc0h7Fd6qy-wT/s320/P1100657.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, the food; I love Mexican food. To be able to get real tacos is a big bonus to me. They have a great offering of fish, shrimp, carne asada, barbacoa, chorizo, chicken, (now it gets good and what you see above) lengua(tongue), carnaza(beef cheek). These street tacos were spot on. They even roasted some jalapeños upon my request. This is the food of the owners and what they do well. They are Mexican and this is real Mexican food. The owners want to make it and the menu reflects what 'most' love about 'Mexican'. They love chimichangas, burritos, and hard tacos. Those items are on the menu and it was those items people around me were all ordering. I strongly suspect that the TexMex menu will dominate and become the main stay of this place in the future. I have seen this trend with many places. The gringos are the customers and they have their expectations of what Mexican food is. I saw this happen to the last Mexican restaurant that opened in Catonsville, El Nayar. It went TexMex and a year later it had lost its zing and was gone. I hope El Agave maintains it's Mexican menu. If it does, we will gladly return as regulars.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rating 8</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-21539487465938663112014-01-14T17:26:00.001-08:002014-01-14T17:26:17.750-08:00Bowens Island Restaurant. Charleston, SC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZ6dLFM72XUJU3cDmKjog8yt96IEZCW0maht8h8HI5zJNfKgDUggJrzUMJ2C9KfhvypRprIdAewxuBf0xJK_USuCvhe-ETLmFbUycaey6WhMqnMeTXvkKZO9zMh5pdo1o3PQ2jgS2wnP4/s1600/P1030576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZ6dLFM72XUJU3cDmKjog8yt96IEZCW0maht8h8HI5zJNfKgDUggJrzUMJ2C9KfhvypRprIdAewxuBf0xJK_USuCvhe-ETLmFbUycaey6WhMqnMeTXvkKZO9zMh5pdo1o3PQ2jgS2wnP4/s320/P1030576.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were in Charleston South Carolina and wanted some good seafood. The lady at the campground suggested we go to <a href="http://www.bowensislandrestaurant.com/">Bowens Island Restaurant</a> at 1870 Bowens Island Rd for as local feel. Now, the restaurant is at the end of a dirt road and before you get there you will think you have gotten lost.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO_780gE7lQ05M7m_zS9KGqmnUKDoShyphenhyphenCShh05ngxTTEhzfgRw0JRFyJMLfF-OuTGRJrr-MCEZBC7prHtNyAfpD6jd1CCrV_WeLcVb3U2KGjwXUTW8BHidmQRsrVY9JWOkvDXAhSrJJ5FI/s1600/P1030581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO_780gE7lQ05M7m_zS9KGqmnUKDoShyphenhyphenCShh05ngxTTEhzfgRw0JRFyJMLfF-OuTGRJrr-MCEZBC7prHtNyAfpD6jd1CCrV_WeLcVb3U2KGjwXUTW8BHidmQRsrVY9JWOkvDXAhSrJJ5FI/s320/P1030581.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a real fish house. Simple menu of just a few items. They serve their oysters by the lunch tray and they are only come steamed. We went with other items since we do not care for our oysters steamed. All their beer is draft and it is all local.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmUyxUnUcSmsaP1zAsj73KbEhQ_ipsz73pZmVl6g4Ve1tzXa5T1taOhqmsMNM7pQb6Mj582OkloHjfQQPTAUACRhgaTQ39RRjy7KaU_iaHJISLfPOhZspFD3nB3Zb-DGfrsiNobnSu4U4/s1600/P1030584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmUyxUnUcSmsaP1zAsj73KbEhQ_ipsz73pZmVl6g4Ve1tzXa5T1taOhqmsMNM7pQb6Mj582OkloHjfQQPTAUACRhgaTQ39RRjy7KaU_iaHJISLfPOhZspFD3nB3Zb-DGfrsiNobnSu4U4/s320/P1030584.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsU8pyp7HN1axDN-7d3VMlhPjjIMrSyTZ-gl_rgK2igTeg8z7wT7ZjAarl8UBKDV_EEGvmBnHLKD3xTKOTjVnTk52ur_O1fx7SiE3azJRSi34j0fNzfR2_wtvH1WfU3aRgAePAcksZu2Hq/s1600/P1030586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsU8pyp7HN1axDN-7d3VMlhPjjIMrSyTZ-gl_rgK2igTeg8z7wT7ZjAarl8UBKDV_EEGvmBnHLKD3xTKOTjVnTk52ur_O1fx7SiE3azJRSi34j0fNzfR2_wtvH1WfU3aRgAePAcksZu2Hq/s320/P1030586.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You order at the bar and wait for your name to be shouted out. It takes about as long as drinking a nice cold draft beer. The beer was excellent.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_f-JHIWd7yP5Ttl-QzfTiTFVSJlcLTLsBWm4H5w-TWveM-9yGT_SiXLw28V6SMqLBs1-3rLXlJGqmf-lIkTzkJ_nfu-CUN4AnzK9_9jopckagJVJ4wRzqrrSKyFv0Z8NQLZswYcireIU/s1600/P1030587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_f-JHIWd7yP5Ttl-QzfTiTFVSJlcLTLsBWm4H5w-TWveM-9yGT_SiXLw28V6SMqLBs1-3rLXlJGqmf-lIkTzkJ_nfu-CUN4AnzK9_9jopckagJVJ4wRzqrrSKyFv0Z8NQLZswYcireIU/s320/P1030587.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beth had the shrimp and grits. It was very tasty. It even had a little bit of heat to it. The portion was very generous.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytouBXL5UY4WoV6Q0TWHTdF4VJw2oAyTcYZ8GTibyB1ZGdfOhPvU8Kz03xB2BCpz29fDc0WJycqvSv2dGgy2_JOXfHVEkUzLGnCg0CKJwLHFBO-HaqyS_goU40uOaVIyhlqieDMqOrQxy/s1600/P1030588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytouBXL5UY4WoV6Q0TWHTdF4VJw2oAyTcYZ8GTibyB1ZGdfOhPvU8Kz03xB2BCpz29fDc0WJycqvSv2dGgy2_JOXfHVEkUzLGnCg0CKJwLHFBO-HaqyS_goU40uOaVIyhlqieDMqOrQxy/s320/P1030588.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The rest of us stuck to the fried seafood plates. Shrimp, fish, crab cake, french fries, hush puppies, and cole slaw. This was so much food I could not eat it all. It was damn good too. Just what you expect from a real fish house. Now this place was not cheap, but it sure was good. The best tasting shrimp I have had in a long time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rating, perfect 10</div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-49171851481794409892014-01-14T17:07:00.000-08:002014-01-14T17:07:04.208-08:00Indian Pass trading Post, Indian Pass Fl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxrhdfMOGKAsMbrD1MEn_pM0e1le37RPGXZy4mY74kVgiHAMVs6YMNLrh7iQQ1Ua454c0Yj0mfEUntWQ86so4GZ12Ys_57YqmVkPXxWjI0Y3aRZxwrHSlfJ6-E7N8QIS2ZZSdK98lKKgC/s1600/PC300525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxrhdfMOGKAsMbrD1MEn_pM0e1le37RPGXZy4mY74kVgiHAMVs6YMNLrh7iQQ1Ua454c0Yj0mfEUntWQ86so4GZ12Ys_57YqmVkPXxWjI0Y3aRZxwrHSlfJ6-E7N8QIS2ZZSdK98lKKgC/s320/PC300525.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While in Florida we went looking for oysters one day. At a slow spot on Florida 30A is Indian Pass Trading Post. Do not blink or you will miss it. Like most buildings in Florida, it has the worn out and run down look. We pulled up at 12:50 and were abruptly told "come back at 1:00. We're open then." We walked in at 1:00 and within 5 minutes there were 10 names on the waiting list for a table.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlavQy2fIi0ATdvtCT58nIBVzXR-XZM_oYJIMJi65EM_3VXdGvi75oRG16Bt1maWpM12VL-XQwvy36kvo1Le1yjlOK9W5s3sSmCureFzhXZrb3flqTp-b7FrHTwFAnPawI4XsFuz7bDLN/s1600/PC300521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlavQy2fIi0ATdvtCT58nIBVzXR-XZM_oYJIMJi65EM_3VXdGvi75oRG16Bt1maWpM12VL-XQwvy36kvo1Le1yjlOK9W5s3sSmCureFzhXZrb3flqTp-b7FrHTwFAnPawI4XsFuz7bDLN/s320/PC300521.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There is nothing fancy here. The vibe is worn down Florida swamp shack. It is very popular with the local tourist crowd.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ky1UzSDHPMTNplXoiR09Ceo5XePR3BmjSvIWOymV7pwUymFM_oKlQ3wOL8XPvme3bFzkITP1BAxUTKQtwysdqykO9rKJeep5ElQ8Ean81bUZ-LCSWEzNn308CUwJWLHOuFDARqsyFe_A/s1600/PC300519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ky1UzSDHPMTNplXoiR09Ceo5XePR3BmjSvIWOymV7pwUymFM_oKlQ3wOL8XPvme3bFzkITP1BAxUTKQtwysdqykO9rKJeep5ElQ8Ean81bUZ-LCSWEzNn308CUwJWLHOuFDARqsyFe_A/s320/PC300519.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are lots of beer signs but in the cooler was Bud lite, Corona, Sprite, Pepsi, and water. Self service beverages only. Low service is the business model. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6d31uqWnBLOFt_jK-ZqHTUmi5P5NU1cL6N_x4O-IO9PdipcgsbEmoH5LbiWnNjzkwtdgx6AXn9mKhV9LW6q2tDjPIFC8-wHMf234HJNl-2onZo9-vBozVf_GwH4uxMHiTGXIWlt17tNH/s1600/PC300522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6d31uqWnBLOFt_jK-ZqHTUmi5P5NU1cL6N_x4O-IO9PdipcgsbEmoH5LbiWnNjzkwtdgx6AXn9mKhV9LW6q2tDjPIFC8-wHMf234HJNl-2onZo9-vBozVf_GwH4uxMHiTGXIWlt17tNH/s320/PC300522.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You order at the counter. The baked stuff is cooked from frozen in a convection oven. Everything else is microwaved. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvBsXC_e1hfzajWpctZpX1EwvP7qFIOwdO6CKTbWr5bOMX2SgcFfQsa8ytauxtH007X2BZyCGarLaBFsmIobrzkHcuSC6B-e9jXRH-9VHDCNGcM1CfMZNohX_iu-61CDDyaAK0wlg2owV/s1600/PC300520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvBsXC_e1hfzajWpctZpX1EwvP7qFIOwdO6CKTbWr5bOMX2SgcFfQsa8ytauxtH007X2BZyCGarLaBFsmIobrzkHcuSC6B-e9jXRH-9VHDCNGcM1CfMZNohX_iu-61CDDyaAK0wlg2owV/s320/PC300520.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shrimp, oysters, and crab legs are steamed to order. Raw oysters are shucked fresh.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK60fQvneV15SO67FsGGqOABHfj_hZZB204eVu_zqfHmv18VNOled-sxCChKgZ4p4IlhVVtHBJIs88bqGxecaCtqHX4IK0VyQ6tlEkBlA6rbndWOup3EH5m5Lzs9MSO61O7t2E77EO7tM0/s1600/PC300517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK60fQvneV15SO67FsGGqOABHfj_hZZB204eVu_zqfHmv18VNOled-sxCChKgZ4p4IlhVVtHBJIs88bqGxecaCtqHX4IK0VyQ6tlEkBlA6rbndWOup3EH5m5Lzs9MSO61O7t2E77EO7tM0/s320/PC300517.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Texas oysters were all they had. We had hoped for local Appalachicola oysters. They were good none the less. Drinking a few beers made the experience better than it really was.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rating 4 of 10.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-29423627999133768242013-11-15T17:00:00.000-08:002013-11-15T17:00:50.343-08:00Super Star Inn, Baltimore MD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSW3niGXrXcDX_kpYWlQiLxmZvhyphenhyphenT6G9OQBAriwg8c-2Ty95eqsf4Z6anoUD8Qhk2oCe8IfIVE7JubPWeDvF8twgfQnRw2gmejhBjvjKmHtEe5p0hF8KahG8cYkM5yPqqnnRgpEoR_XCmr/s1600/PB060307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSW3niGXrXcDX_kpYWlQiLxmZvhyphenhyphenT6G9OQBAriwg8c-2Ty95eqsf4Z6anoUD8Qhk2oCe8IfIVE7JubPWeDvF8twgfQnRw2gmejhBjvjKmHtEe5p0hF8KahG8cYkM5yPqqnnRgpEoR_XCmr/s320/PB060307.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Super Star Inn is located at 5603 Pulaski Highway in far Eastern Baltimore City. It is very easy to miss since it sits back from the road between a transmission shop and a auto body shop. It blends in with this light industrial part of the City. This place is quintessential, blue collar, Baltimore right down to the form stone exterior.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFi4ww-8WKU0895WB4ZdRirsBUCemh-DYiRAYDdtkBrJ9hIyj78_v5r_-WaXlXUQN_N5Gr5fBCB-BusYa27ROyHgFiwXcFQPTZT2Pzru06_bNLMxTelxOzvxqU2SK22Y_7fbkhOuPriOG/s1600/PB060305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFi4ww-8WKU0895WB4ZdRirsBUCemh-DYiRAYDdtkBrJ9hIyj78_v5r_-WaXlXUQN_N5Gr5fBCB-BusYa27ROyHgFiwXcFQPTZT2Pzru06_bNLMxTelxOzvxqU2SK22Y_7fbkhOuPriOG/s320/PB060305.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There is nothing fancy about the place. It really is a blue collar type place. At lunch time you see many guys in their dark blue or green work cloths sipping something in a discrete drinking glass. Eight years ago it would have been a haze of blue smoke.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxD3oCSDZ08k_l0v8Df_4-THIpbFDz82iX_4YW-RT0Goe06IvsksMxYa-YD_HFJoTvIrx4mhu0xXmfd51vgH8Zs6IsboraIqh_H906kSDWO_hIdDtdQA3YdyBL9XFajNg49fdW_xtPzVl/s1600/PB060304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxD3oCSDZ08k_l0v8Df_4-THIpbFDz82iX_4YW-RT0Goe06IvsksMxYa-YD_HFJoTvIrx4mhu0xXmfd51vgH8Zs6IsboraIqh_H906kSDWO_hIdDtdQA3YdyBL9XFajNg49fdW_xtPzVl/s320/PB060304.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The massive 360 degree bar takes up most of the room. There is a pool table, dart board, and three poker machines turned to face the kitchen window and not the rest of the room. The only thing missing is a pin ball machine. Twice now I have had lunch here. The bar tenders are real honest to God, Baltimore Hons. The cook watches you from the kitchen window to make sure you have a smile on your face when you try your food.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmcawu4MxlAwqk_RIDqRgyz6WS4g8rptG155DZcQDJ7UX2yYpie58zVCcDxPt2g8UB0p4s6f1Nw0oES-KGXdVCb7GUEMZ5rC5XUdus60zV72tIxS_wAnSXMjG_CPuezdLJk9SrrmzSsBV/s1600/PB060303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmcawu4MxlAwqk_RIDqRgyz6WS4g8rptG155DZcQDJ7UX2yYpie58zVCcDxPt2g8UB0p4s6f1Nw0oES-KGXdVCb7GUEMZ5rC5XUdus60zV72tIxS_wAnSXMjG_CPuezdLJk9SrrmzSsBV/s320/PB060303.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As most places like this, there is a board featuring the daily specials. Crab cake plater is one of them. $9 for a crab cake, fries, and slaw. This is a super deal. The crab cake is full of meat and has a nice strong old bay flavor. It is a bold cake, not a high brow one you might find for twice the money. The fries are really good too. Both visits, my guest went for the crab cake special. Both were very pleased with their choice.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtvcrP3zUr1Dr7CO2mmds6ii3EHuc8qUY76l2GMPstNdYuCDu5XTHHcDAJTncPHs8mlWqAAttKVduJoOAcv0ilXV5jqgzBH1x_Er1BeL30_ZnvAqgJ3mUcqPjkMfRvyE8rYvhdUZPi3V6P/s1600/PB060302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtvcrP3zUr1Dr7CO2mmds6ii3EHuc8qUY76l2GMPstNdYuCDu5XTHHcDAJTncPHs8mlWqAAttKVduJoOAcv0ilXV5jqgzBH1x_Er1BeL30_ZnvAqgJ3mUcqPjkMfRvyE8rYvhdUZPi3V6P/s320/PB060302.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made the choice of gyro platter. At $7.50 for the platter, it was not the best I have ever had, but it was acceptable. The second time there, I went for the little, 6 ounce cheeseburger. The 8 ounce is the standard. Sorry for no photo. It was one of the best burgers I have ever had. It sits firmly in the top 5. At $4.50 it was even tastier than I could have expected. All the food is good honest bar food at a very reasonable price.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PFqLmmosXuE0sLg9Ehp4Rxv0wJ08FHJmyHtJ7N02763YBw1SEJbUL4NLkBdEEB-MpCxPt9Gl_NEMtg9Hs9NsjWv2R1W6ln6vAMeV2Y6G7at4TwUVcNe50DD8SPxZEqCEYrEMaNzOQTT8/s1600/PB060306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PFqLmmosXuE0sLg9Ehp4Rxv0wJ08FHJmyHtJ7N02763YBw1SEJbUL4NLkBdEEB-MpCxPt9Gl_NEMtg9Hs9NsjWv2R1W6ln6vAMeV2Y6G7at4TwUVcNe50DD8SPxZEqCEYrEMaNzOQTT8/s320/PB060306.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I suggest you try the Super Star Inn. It has taken over as my place to take people who visit my shop. The dinner specials are very tempting and will probably having me bringing the family across town one evening. Thursdays they have a 16 ounce New York strip steak with two sides for $11.95. No need to dress up, or put on any airs when coming here. If you are the popped collar type, you might want to go somewhere else.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Score: A perfect 10</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-77747183669979025192013-11-03T16:23:00.000-08:002013-11-03T16:23:00.952-08:00Shin Chon, Ellicott City MD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6DiiSri55qvp7N-jADPTD-WNUBq5M6nw6CcA5mP0iNXHd67EeAL1CZNvksB4QAtzuEz723FtmrRavruh1p_b5QzvVbT-OjpLEQy6gOvmY6Y4uumBLhkIqKAtUmSeWnWhp4BgObhPY19O/s1600/P1010172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6DiiSri55qvp7N-jADPTD-WNUBq5M6nw6CcA5mP0iNXHd67EeAL1CZNvksB4QAtzuEz723FtmrRavruh1p_b5QzvVbT-OjpLEQy6gOvmY6Y4uumBLhkIqKAtUmSeWnWhp4BgObhPY19O/s320/P1010172.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think many will notice I tend to gravitate toward ethnic restaurants. Shin Chon at 8801 Baltimore National Pike, #27 sure fits this bill. It is at the far end of the Lotte Plaza. Korean BBQ is the thrust of this place. Be very careful coming here. The parking lot is very busy and the drivers tend to be oblivious to an other cars. I am not stereotyping, we almost got into three accidents just trying to park. It was Friday night so the place was packed and it was hopping. The wait was only about 10 minutes however.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5feIcvAtmGHA_dem00SMjTqZtD-IIUiZ9UrTDJweoNSy6iG1h7-bhDFHC2gZIsvfmY2CRf7roJY8Lq2tnxcdEy6GO6n8h5ts4OZ4DlhSIehJGl81P0DVzupWp66hAIm3Ok0ieioPUPyN9/s1600/P1010165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5feIcvAtmGHA_dem00SMjTqZtD-IIUiZ9UrTDJweoNSy6iG1h7-bhDFHC2gZIsvfmY2CRf7roJY8Lq2tnxcdEy6GO6n8h5ts4OZ4DlhSIehJGl81P0DVzupWp66hAIm3Ok0ieioPUPyN9/s320/P1010165.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first home run; the beers are BIG. I like that. The beer was also VERY cold. Second home run.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2LR8560Aak7JyjX8YrrsS0n8qW0cQaUYrk9TblUFYnr1sclTcuxlWpmjq2nd7tbC8n9FGodMB09hGgkT6oERWgH8I1E1-RMLL49TvyH4xnWvDvTTPFmEsSuGjXtlURrpTG1m_NZNvick8/s1600/P1010167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2LR8560Aak7JyjX8YrrsS0n8qW0cQaUYrk9TblUFYnr1sclTcuxlWpmjq2nd7tbC8n9FGodMB09hGgkT6oERWgH8I1E1-RMLL49TvyH4xnWvDvTTPFmEsSuGjXtlURrpTG1m_NZNvick8/s320/P1010167.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Korean meals are always served with kimchi. The furthest plate is what most think of as kimchi, but they all are kimchi.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vJcIOr68-NMPtSJtqjrVWbFvGknMRN_i3IpGSpaB-AE4ERat3HvXH6yE0NH_m50AogcbWsTyJ5ybYJ3uEFvN1j2Ch42uXoJ96keoehyTE1ZeucxgvcWFImNEOnQEn0gKOa9hvAQJ0Bl1/s1600/P1010168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vJcIOr68-NMPtSJtqjrVWbFvGknMRN_i3IpGSpaB-AE4ERat3HvXH6yE0NH_m50AogcbWsTyJ5ybYJ3uEFvN1j2Ch42uXoJ96keoehyTE1ZeucxgvcWFImNEOnQEn0gKOa9hvAQJ0Bl1/s320/P1010168.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
10 different kimchi were served. This is not the record of 14 we were served once at another place, but it was a very nice array. There were also two different soups served. My favorite was the kimchi second to the right in the photo above. It was a green chili pepper in some kind of bean/ sesame paste. All of them were unique and delicious. My least favorite the one I pointed out in the last photo. It was delicious, but just typical.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbR5HFMHgFamLxseGTlLHum0AK5BKg1mNSnGrDwK_PWDzXoCRNac9JchS6DZPPw77sjjNDwwtrW4KRFjidSP6TlFr7sFokiFaNbCkFDCLmF3_Qjn3YfD6Zv0DMQ-L3Zqm-Mbvl_zwafX19/s1600/P1010169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbR5HFMHgFamLxseGTlLHum0AK5BKg1mNSnGrDwK_PWDzXoCRNac9JchS6DZPPw77sjjNDwwtrW4KRFjidSP6TlFr7sFokiFaNbCkFDCLmF3_Qjn3YfD6Zv0DMQ-L3Zqm-Mbvl_zwafX19/s320/P1010169.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our entree was a meal for two. I cannot tell you the name, but it was billed as "baby squid and pork". It also contained cabbage, jalapeños, and cellophane noodles along with the baby squid and sliced pork belly. A lady cooked it all right in front of us on the table and unlike those NASTY Japanese places that cook it in front of you, A) it tasted great. B) the cook did not throw it at me, missing and hitting my shirt instead of my mouth. C) make a big show of cooking flavorless nasty food. This food tasted great as I pointed out in "A".</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Mfh-ujuKDfNRcK-S6U8XdqjjIOODHw-03OBq2eFuqFJDfwSMR_AvoaaEzUMAEzT0FSyji7-XTeBIMfQM0qqD8J-17AvsG3YmbGA_uRI08RZlpv_XtNkUTSOe3SsEVGac2FAM_6ZvV8JI/s1600/P1010170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Mfh-ujuKDfNRcK-S6U8XdqjjIOODHw-03OBq2eFuqFJDfwSMR_AvoaaEzUMAEzT0FSyji7-XTeBIMfQM0qqD8J-17AvsG3YmbGA_uRI08RZlpv_XtNkUTSOe3SsEVGac2FAM_6ZvV8JI/s320/P1010170.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This photo speaks for itself. A big stack of empty plates and a big empty beer. The bill, $50 w/ tip and two big beers. Very reasonable if you ask me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rating 9</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Would I return? Yes, but there are so many other places I want to try. The Korean population is huge in Ellicott City/ Catonsville and there are a bunch of very obscure places we want to try. </div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-15671442417790242312013-10-03T16:25:00.002-07:002013-10-03T16:25:18.373-07:00The Bavarian, Taos Ski Valley NM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSCB53fKqdrMvzB4twUBpmhqP1BrRq_txi4tnlPuqWJhKU6hS70axlw4etijDlnvWruxPbWmT0v4mAquwUVmB_5tHJJGv1VcikBJhcwZu83wh1uxemx_JOQtqLEm2379pnN_NnQ0dxBUVp/s1600/P9290246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSCB53fKqdrMvzB4twUBpmhqP1BrRq_txi4tnlPuqWJhKU6hS70axlw4etijDlnvWruxPbWmT0v4mAquwUVmB_5tHJJGv1VcikBJhcwZu83wh1uxemx_JOQtqLEm2379pnN_NnQ0dxBUVp/s320/P9290246.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At the bottom of the ski lift of Taos Valley Ski Resort is the Bavarian. It sure has the look of a Bavarian gastehaus sitting at about 9000 feet on the side of Wheeler Peak. The hippy girls in dirndls kind of made it feel Bavarian.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxdjVBWWt4zO_aqR3gk1L8-l_6imBA4AchWm1IF9zSj7YXx3-2PJifUtSlEgfdSIY8KoRaNmiSEoQvONdzljebDYLXlFuqtf3ckaMD5WZGeLKBKKojxwJyRVvrA-t1L20jGh5dht-KrYr/s1600/P9290239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxdjVBWWt4zO_aqR3gk1L8-l_6imBA4AchWm1IF9zSj7YXx3-2PJifUtSlEgfdSIY8KoRaNmiSEoQvONdzljebDYLXlFuqtf3ckaMD5WZGeLKBKKojxwJyRVvrA-t1L20jGh5dht-KrYr/s320/P9290239.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The half liter or heifeweisen sure made it taste Bavarian. The weisewurst, or veil bratwurst, was spot on Bavarian. The buffalo bratwurst did not make it taste very Bavarian at all. The $17.50 for two sausages, a so called sampler, was not so tasty to me. Beth and I shared this entree. We did eat it all since at high altitudes you build a serious hunger. The kraut was okay as was the mashed potatoes. The gravy was brown, not sure what flavor it was besides brown. It was billed as an Optinator beer sauce.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF55UtefuA_4Pia5Ce5iksTK32o6w3rOUgbJwiQjlDPNnYqWi7GvlF1-pN63bySJx0d5bJyJss1Y2hZ7zXkWZRwe5Y022Er5psqL_YgwKWhnIUH7Z6hHRwu7B7WhGMRkHewGE7FhUN8kyp/s1600/P9290240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF55UtefuA_4Pia5Ce5iksTK32o6w3rOUgbJwiQjlDPNnYqWi7GvlF1-pN63bySJx0d5bJyJss1Y2hZ7zXkWZRwe5Y022Er5psqL_YgwKWhnIUH7Z6hHRwu7B7WhGMRkHewGE7FhUN8kyp/s320/P9290240.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dan got the Bav dog. It must have met his pallet since he ate it all.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWfxJSds0iex5N1NPWV7AdAW-okyXubP3s5MWoVhRUcRmNEC0FZUmPZzhesa0SYEKirt7cv0GbaChzAoqaIA9kNaHsRFG2X9zX0eQMUpkc0q0cTJjii9r8GzJ2rCrCY5Mfz-yYe_MGNFxA/s1600/P9290241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWfxJSds0iex5N1NPWV7AdAW-okyXubP3s5MWoVhRUcRmNEC0FZUmPZzhesa0SYEKirt7cv0GbaChzAoqaIA9kNaHsRFG2X9zX0eQMUpkc0q0cTJjii9r8GzJ2rCrCY5Mfz-yYe_MGNFxA/s320/P9290241.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jen had the spatzle. A seriously hardy offering as an entree. It tasted pretty good on my sample. It is not like my Mothers, but it was very good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dining experience, 9 but the atmosphere resulted in a boost to the score.</div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-92231709983170157422013-10-03T15:19:00.001-07:002013-10-03T15:19:40.262-07:00Taos Diner, El Prado NM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6Z3zkpg-bPGpB4GQ2PDkJeXuGZdhrUZEUrQFHbSvAD7Ad4nc_PlDM8FFmP2YzT8RAnTi3ZpQTe5UsMsWrkUHqaYY08DnsqUSEdMq6IOgBM242xumf2qtQPphpK5YCdDkr1PAZbCY5gJT/s1600/P9290226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6Z3zkpg-bPGpB4GQ2PDkJeXuGZdhrUZEUrQFHbSvAD7Ad4nc_PlDM8FFmP2YzT8RAnTi3ZpQTe5UsMsWrkUHqaYY08DnsqUSEdMq6IOgBM242xumf2qtQPphpK5YCdDkr1PAZbCY5gJT/s320/P9290226.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We always seem to have breakfast at the Taos Diner. Located at 908 Paseo del Pueblo Norte it is also known as The Taos Diner 1. There is a second one on the South end of town. They did a recent remodel of the place. It is brighter and sits more people, but I kind of liked it before. It was a little seedier and more homey to me. A big plus for this place is the kids area. There is a big pile of toys and the kids can leave the adults to talk.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9fbAKiWEsZJ9XWo8eOkLWZDLZxbBbuElUfteASalNaFZX61YQ1no1kw5QHo7Omcs47F9YumHPH4o_DLdwPt_gCA8cnifAby27czQrTxX0vjqK9EV9OXlDw4afE3Hjrqotvx5dCYGHioOF/s1600/P9290221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9fbAKiWEsZJ9XWo8eOkLWZDLZxbBbuElUfteASalNaFZX61YQ1no1kw5QHo7Omcs47F9YumHPH4o_DLdwPt_gCA8cnifAby27czQrTxX0vjqK9EV9OXlDw4afE3Hjrqotvx5dCYGHioOF/s320/P9290221.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got another New/ Old Mexico standard, Huevos Rancheros. It was, well, standard, nothing special about it. The green chile was even kind of standard. This is not my usual experience at the Taos Diner. The coffee was rather good. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXz7IL2KPBfTFDzY7GaMdpFAcaJwx8rUqCxMbl91m4SAvqvKkIrIuyGjU6gJQBvW-_jisM-v6A5j9DPbabcDuoiWK9lcmDIWW6q4kiXRqaTmRPlbhcIN_ztzRhKtzOJpyyWTigVIFoXFoQ/s1600/P9290222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXz7IL2KPBfTFDzY7GaMdpFAcaJwx8rUqCxMbl91m4SAvqvKkIrIuyGjU6gJQBvW-_jisM-v6A5j9DPbabcDuoiWK9lcmDIWW6q4kiXRqaTmRPlbhcIN_ztzRhKtzOJpyyWTigVIFoXFoQ/s320/P9290222.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The breakfast burrito my table mate had sure looked good. Bacon, ham, sausage, potatoes, eggs, and cheese smothered in red and green (christmas) chile sauce. The red sauce was fiery as it should be.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dining experience; Usually 9, this time (just for me) 7</div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-83566134846603149302013-10-03T14:50:00.001-07:002013-10-03T14:50:29.088-07:00Horseman's Haven, Sante Fe MN.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IUTpbqVIb3jGz0XoFc3au3q8DcHurNFR2pw8iir351nd6C5UUyxaG4g7q3NmcZV9-Fhm28IN6bPlgQ77Vc6Ov11PxtieC4qXSHOV-0EtCriBdBllfBJUoWiGQkTUgBz6yhophcWxevFL/s1600/P9270135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IUTpbqVIb3jGz0XoFc3au3q8DcHurNFR2pw8iir351nd6C5UUyxaG4g7q3NmcZV9-Fhm28IN6bPlgQ77Vc6Ov11PxtieC4qXSHOV-0EtCriBdBllfBJUoWiGQkTUgBz6yhophcWxevFL/s320/P9270135.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While in New Mexico I had the pleasure of eating at some very good eating establishments. Horseman's Haven at 4354 Cerrillios Road was the first of them. I ate here a few years back and little has changed since then on the interior. The first time I was here the Cafe was a stand alone business. Since then the surrounding land has been intensively developed around it. The building is not really much from the outside. The interior has a decor of worn, cow boyish, high desert cafe feel. It is nothing special, it does not need to be. People come here for the good food at a very reasonable price, not the decor.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzobRZ0uMxvahpP75FSpxhU2nnqbY785kWbjZxgZ9qQ2zApX68YAmv2Ab7Meqdl58KfQcx7t6q9rXPL3XSlWEpSLAFsSUqAq5RkxSvK5UGW4h_yn6J15uOjE2CwP4J0BrBBz3fm0wHn9Pl/s1600/P9270130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzobRZ0uMxvahpP75FSpxhU2nnqbY785kWbjZxgZ9qQ2zApX68YAmv2Ab7Meqdl58KfQcx7t6q9rXPL3XSlWEpSLAFsSUqAq5RkxSvK5UGW4h_yn6J15uOjE2CwP4J0BrBBz3fm0wHn9Pl/s320/P9270130.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The kitchen was humming place as we watched from the lunch counter. They have the routine finely tuned and everything happens very fast. Our food hit the table in lightning speed.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkjAWJoT4Fwd41udpbeyFYsc8oeceuFsDqeGIrXPS9E3B8tqdnPUF66hZi2r-0jBvbI-PmdYrMU_goUoRQvV8nvyr7J5dB4nhuh8mLPNB0wKmAPLKWRMBL9dm2udB1eQH9nc6cEQiwFFU/s1600/P9270132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkjAWJoT4Fwd41udpbeyFYsc8oeceuFsDqeGIrXPS9E3B8tqdnPUF66hZi2r-0jBvbI-PmdYrMU_goUoRQvV8nvyr7J5dB4nhuh8mLPNB0wKmAPLKWRMBL9dm2udB1eQH9nc6cEQiwFFU/s320/P9270132.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beth has the special of day; Chicken Fajitas. The beans, rice, and tostada filled with guacamole was a meal in itself. The chicken was crisp, moist, and heavily flavored of lime. The two of us could have made a meal of just this entree alone.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1WpUwqVBK5F_YMHOq58dOaPm6u83jeDo9xvap_NKAz7Qbwta_woNeCMQsuyODO1a-zmy4HhlUkh7StBXiNGPy-ESmRHAQzobtmXXSeoLt_w_kvX9-GHi7Tkx87zmy_hVepjf76z5yHXd/s1600/P9270133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1WpUwqVBK5F_YMHOq58dOaPm6u83jeDo9xvap_NKAz7Qbwta_woNeCMQsuyODO1a-zmy4HhlUkh7StBXiNGPy-ESmRHAQzobtmXXSeoLt_w_kvX9-GHi7Tkx87zmy_hVepjf76z5yHXd/s320/P9270133.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I came for the New Mexico classic; the green chile cheeseburger. It is served smothered, so a fork and knife were required to eat this bad boy. The green chiles were mighty spicy I should say. This burger is not for those who do not like it hot. The home fried potatoes were an unexpected touch, but a great way to sop up the spilt green chiles.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dining experience; 8.5 Have not expectations and you can call it a 9</div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-90087231357918807042013-07-09T16:13:00.000-07:002013-07-09T16:13:19.634-07:00Pho Saigon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3wHK1J8JfIVo2_wWqdVDSu1LJQWWOattatIOqui2xSeUBbyEP3XRbw7r9inIBZ0i7oZEpw1GzyVqvAQX9j2JAITPlPhfCjXp5YOXTCkPxuPMuvKJUzQR6ultNqb9YOvgRWHM5aO7Yb-H/s1600/P7080345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3wHK1J8JfIVo2_wWqdVDSu1LJQWWOattatIOqui2xSeUBbyEP3XRbw7r9inIBZ0i7oZEpw1GzyVqvAQX9j2JAITPlPhfCjXp5YOXTCkPxuPMuvKJUzQR6ultNqb9YOvgRWHM5aO7Yb-H/s320/P7080345.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You might note I am very much attracted to foods outside my own culture. I happen to really like Vietnamese food. When GroupOn offered a deal at Pho Saigon, we jumped all over it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Located at 1116 Rolling Road in Catonsville. The restaurant is kind of hidden in a strip mall. All the signs are the same blue color and size so it is easy to miss it driving by. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhra22bIgsKQFxYP88Zg3Rw9yKIWj8VCIG-vKS6oZ2Fmm-y4yha-iNetyya-GaHKKVlHIqZBNJFqt6oVJ9_qC4A_X0epsGft3Q7N1HjeymNYhWzcff0wLR5B7id_Rh5g62tC-mp7lALgErj/s1600/P7080346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhra22bIgsKQFxYP88Zg3Rw9yKIWj8VCIG-vKS6oZ2Fmm-y4yha-iNetyya-GaHKKVlHIqZBNJFqt6oVJ9_qC4A_X0epsGft3Q7N1HjeymNYhWzcff0wLR5B7id_Rh5g62tC-mp7lALgErj/s320/P7080346.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When we got there at 5:45 the place was empty except for one, two top table. The staff was very friendly and quick to welcome us in. The decor was bright, cheery, and incredibly clean. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdm7t3MTL06UzPICLLb9l_HgWLGs2GAp35aiPMdVpSgVrEwN7eKNZlpUoCtRSacHDx6Ezd_P3H_udAKXhfAEvE3OgGiEeLd9Momrib4KeXDLu-MdtQ1jyUpQOpPHvxo4RO1sXhSTWuYpi9/s1600/P7080347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdm7t3MTL06UzPICLLb9l_HgWLGs2GAp35aiPMdVpSgVrEwN7eKNZlpUoCtRSacHDx6Ezd_P3H_udAKXhfAEvE3OgGiEeLd9Momrib4KeXDLu-MdtQ1jyUpQOpPHvxo4RO1sXhSTWuYpi9/s320/P7080347.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is not a fancy place but has the huge plasma playing some kind of imitation Cirque du Solie playing as do most Asian restaurants we tend to go to. As I said earlier, the staff was extremely friendly and helpful, even though we were never asked if we might like something besides water to drink. I kind of like the Vietnamese style coffee and would have ordered one if allowed to. No big deal, Baltimore has excellent water. The menu had many selections, but was not as extensive as other Vietnamese restaurants we have gone to. This is a good thing for me, not a bad thing. I never know what to order when there are too many choices. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRFX_G1aoiKHtPpNCdio23W8LDIxe_oa7FssxoJcO3Qqz5UzGFq6BvUHxZ4dYQfmKMybexPp-YAjOxCUcOLRMBdHP1beA8kSJ54Fbvy1aJB_0ddmiuieJRBZg16W2usaII_k5bOW5CGy8/s1600/P7080358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRFX_G1aoiKHtPpNCdio23W8LDIxe_oa7FssxoJcO3Qqz5UzGFq6BvUHxZ4dYQfmKMybexPp-YAjOxCUcOLRMBdHP1beA8kSJ54Fbvy1aJB_0ddmiuieJRBZg16W2usaII_k5bOW5CGy8/s320/P7080358.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We started things off with some summer rolls. They were the best summer rolls I have ever tasted. Honestly, they were very good. Halle had her usual Pho Ga(chicken soup). She ate half the bowl, so she must have liked it. Beth ordered her usual go to dish, Bun Bo Hue(spicy beef soup. This is actually Cambodian soup with weird cuts of meat and blood pudding in it). She ate a good amount too, claiming it better than the other two Vietnamese joints we gone to in the past. No chili paste was added, so it must have been fairly spicy. Ava had Bun Tom Nuong(vermicelli with grilled shrimp and tons of vegetables). It all gets topped with a sauce containing fish sauce. She emptied her bowl. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfy6qMd2P3t4W5dk4PVuciwMa9u_UXiMU4ao58Isdy67UHaahci6mE-vsvnLRt_KXeydzNaoiqBPRG3rtvJ_k-qJUf-sUfgWoGA3liLev5FkGTi_K49me1SIgYcX1BbwRHX5DfKk2wlO3/s1600/P7080359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfy6qMd2P3t4W5dk4PVuciwMa9u_UXiMU4ao58Isdy67UHaahci6mE-vsvnLRt_KXeydzNaoiqBPRG3rtvJ_k-qJUf-sUfgWoGA3liLev5FkGTi_K49me1SIgYcX1BbwRHX5DfKk2wlO3/s320/P7080359.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My dish was very similar to Ava's. I had the Bun Chao Tom Thit Bo Nuong( vermicelli with beef, shrimp, spring roll and tons of vegetables) It was incredibly good. The best part was how fresh everything tasted. I know that "fresh" is a rather odd description, but the flavor of every ingredient is just very fresh. My meal was better than the other two places we have gone before. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-fMy5hlGTz4SQEINVsvHRslvmBMbmqPOf6RQO5smn9QPW5y7VO3aN6fKDatrpOEU-onOQSb9MljnSMaUIPHigXCu3DT5YNpP0UNVXBP42oGvfanWwHHKc4DR_vMLIzTPvdO4OHu1Xfkb/s1600/P7080362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-fMy5hlGTz4SQEINVsvHRslvmBMbmqPOf6RQO5smn9QPW5y7VO3aN6fKDatrpOEU-onOQSb9MljnSMaUIPHigXCu3DT5YNpP0UNVXBP42oGvfanWwHHKc4DR_vMLIzTPvdO4OHu1Xfkb/s320/P7080362.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have a strong suspicion we will be returning to Pho Saigon in the future. Overall rating... 9</div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-52929895207408106852013-06-29T05:04:00.001-07:002013-06-29T05:04:40.784-07:00The Ott House- Emmitsburg MD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3nVK4NCXhL66TNnAMuISCMusKUSRib0sIG90k_flsnVnCJ0MadQVwitcppuxVBHznhk05EL5EhEtqqvQNhtlxr5ZIBaClFxxScIZAAlMvPjiGBAGPa23ZYAFG_cWC7_ToWIgtqi-8EtG/s1600/P6270209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3nVK4NCXhL66TNnAMuISCMusKUSRib0sIG90k_flsnVnCJ0MadQVwitcppuxVBHznhk05EL5EhEtqqvQNhtlxr5ZIBaClFxxScIZAAlMvPjiGBAGPa23ZYAFG_cWC7_ToWIgtqi-8EtG/s320/P6270209.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I met some friends at a pub in Emmitsburg this past Thursday for a bite to eat before a meeting we were attending. Located at 5 W. Main street, Emmitsburgh it is literally right in the center of town. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbuteWm9enxW9kcpU9TXIHy-SsX6ubgIue7SQKBCjbTwYpLs7RFfpw1_7T2_Lugx0s_K7zj_eUy_JUx2IvkMwt-7XN7E0a51CpE4a1dhO1_0QVsUl2bwh2PU3RDa4sx-hRKqqgW1f4ifqh/s1600/P6270211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbuteWm9enxW9kcpU9TXIHy-SsX6ubgIue7SQKBCjbTwYpLs7RFfpw1_7T2_Lugx0s_K7zj_eUy_JUx2IvkMwt-7XN7E0a51CpE4a1dhO1_0QVsUl2bwh2PU3RDa4sx-hRKqqgW1f4ifqh/s320/P6270211.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The bar is very typical of many Maryland bars. It definitely has a local flavor and everyone seems to know everyone here. The place is huge and sports many tables to eat or drink. It was fairly quiet when I walked in but a steady stream of patrons came through the door as we were in the place. I was told that by 7 it would be packed.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7NVdXTDiHSeISglM6zlmQGrMh6M80j4AxisYXhw1WQmX1y077Qp2Tujx_V6Og_IoAlPbWG20wFWCC3pRKmyoyZIw8goaKheQBAzMk08c7ljKHWnKs1axhyphenhyphencrhGZDiS74pkSy4FoPaDec/s1600/P6270212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7NVdXTDiHSeISglM6zlmQGrMh6M80j4AxisYXhw1WQmX1y077Qp2Tujx_V6Og_IoAlPbWG20wFWCC3pRKmyoyZIw8goaKheQBAzMk08c7ljKHWnKs1axhyphenhyphencrhGZDiS74pkSy4FoPaDec/s320/P6270212.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Emmitsburg is home to the Fire Academy, and apparently the Ott House is the place where the fire cadets frequent. The walls are plastered with thousands of badges from firehouses all over the world. There are numerous items of firehouse memorabilia including pull boxes, signs, and many fire hats. Some of the hats were leather ones. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The staff was friendly and right on point. Never over whelming or pushy, always there when needed.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjogJs9pPMjgaPgoB4F06Kt93pN37eOKt723Oyt2nWHJAykFxXsznWCM25rlof6eAT0SEAjSvH3yGGpPPmC1-1Aw8B-xRojxc18xVlPmz2ZiqiGmrIKOq56PpQhu4JlxzfMka54qHrSr3z2/s1600/P6270214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjogJs9pPMjgaPgoB4F06Kt93pN37eOKt723Oyt2nWHJAykFxXsznWCM25rlof6eAT0SEAjSvH3yGGpPPmC1-1Aw8B-xRojxc18xVlPmz2ZiqiGmrIKOq56PpQhu4JlxzfMka54qHrSr3z2/s320/P6270214.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The food was typical bar fair. The pricing was rather low making for a very affordable meal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had the soft crab sandwich. I have to say it was one of the better soft crab sandwiches I have had. I like my soft crab nice and crisp and it did not fail to deliver. The corn meal coating was perfect in my book. One of my friends had the same sandwich and we both agreed it was darn good. My other two friends had burgers. Their empty plates testified to the fact they liked it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
rating; solid 8.5 (yes, I am becoming a little more conservative in my ratings)</div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-33488205199282500722013-06-20T15:47:00.001-07:002013-06-20T15:47:16.506-07:00El Taquito, The Original Mexican Restaurant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFbPphSVEmNMZAAWMhqcNdWsF5dFfLeKBun5gnDnf3pUYr5SjSP00mNedJBSS-vhbCB2Z4qFHBBWEZ-fGXflrWOsCRZl2EepAJjm3GJdCICXT3oaE94Sipoe9HM1AK8pKPGGdjQJapEfM/s1600/P6200046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFbPphSVEmNMZAAWMhqcNdWsF5dFfLeKBun5gnDnf3pUYr5SjSP00mNedJBSS-vhbCB2Z4qFHBBWEZ-fGXflrWOsCRZl2EepAJjm3GJdCICXT3oaE94Sipoe9HM1AK8pKPGGdjQJapEfM/s320/P6200046.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was treated to lunch today by Michael. At his suggestion we went to my absolute favorite Mexican restaurant. Located at 1744 Eastern Avenue right in the heart of Fells Point. El Taquito is really the original Mexican restaurant in Baltimore. This is not your Tex Mex bull crap, this is the real deal. In the late 1980's El Taquito opened before there was any Hispanic immigrants in Fells Point. The original owners came from Puebla and made a go of it. Very quickly many other immigrants moved in and set up shop changing the climate of Fells Point for the better in my opinion.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtUoamqh2uuPanaRJlbScJXmgfJa6h4TucBtv7kr4nwYEVaKN2Gxf5kGi9mGmz9qtlS17_4Z-hz5AJhyphenhyphenoWDuKgX8Lx32-sRUipL-MVFQHvbyh6AiJ4neZVYLwUSXE2k6zS5lXrCzGRd1c/s1600/P6200048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtUoamqh2uuPanaRJlbScJXmgfJa6h4TucBtv7kr4nwYEVaKN2Gxf5kGi9mGmz9qtlS17_4Z-hz5AJhyphenhyphenoWDuKgX8Lx32-sRUipL-MVFQHvbyh6AiJ4neZVYLwUSXE2k6zS5lXrCzGRd1c/s320/P6200048.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The place has recently changed hands and Victor, also from Puebla, has changed things up a great deal. The location was a clothing store in a former life and it's decor has been spiffed up with some bright paint and new repurposed booths instead of the cheap plastic chairs and pedestal tables they used to have. The new booths are well worn and fit your butt perfectly.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj58xwO485VP6yRDclUlbJbXNdxUfsXR1RgcrwoAuPVqVrKT_eX3-ED33-ow_1BHVMhOcjT2UwQ4gXV0IJTjm7EGhZG9ufEPbXjzsECEYHyUfC2Kz7tiOgDM-EkAFV5pap21sMAfrsXyjKI/s1600/P6200049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj58xwO485VP6yRDclUlbJbXNdxUfsXR1RgcrwoAuPVqVrKT_eX3-ED33-ow_1BHVMhOcjT2UwQ4gXV0IJTjm7EGhZG9ufEPbXjzsECEYHyUfC2Kz7tiOgDM-EkAFV5pap21sMAfrsXyjKI/s320/P6200049.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In typical Hispanic style, the novelos(soap operas) are always on. We didn't come for the atmosphere, we came for the food. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfeqXAEre58uahQm8BEY0QxENwqAYCzWDhxEDBg-1rNJxW78qHCPZRBPXhpbhyphenhyphenpMoL8ju0IPLZy03c63azYSu0J-TgjoADy7WbnVlGpFZ7NQqtqb4tJg4APUidp22ACU6hyphenhyphen0nTpIX_vX7n/s1600/P6200047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfeqXAEre58uahQm8BEY0QxENwqAYCzWDhxEDBg-1rNJxW78qHCPZRBPXhpbhyphenhyphenpMoL8ju0IPLZy03c63azYSu0J-TgjoADy7WbnVlGpFZ7NQqtqb4tJg4APUidp22ACU6hyphenhyphen0nTpIX_vX7n/s320/P6200047.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You always get chips and salsa. Now take this to heart, this is real Mexican food from the center of Mexico. The salsa is not for the faint of heart or your typical gringo crowd. The right hand one is a red salsa with numerous different chilies. The predominant one chipote giving it a smoky flavor. It is way hot by gringo standards. The left hand salsa is a green one. I cannot tell you what is in it, but it is wicked hot. Michael and I finish off the bowl every time since you just cannot get enough of the euphoric rush it creates. These salsas are not novelty items, they are loaded with rich flavors.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF9zX2qg1qre1gV7Sc_DkdKfG0TOXWNWqPoCIhaiVnuWSZMYaQizgYZPPNf7QDS5Ulh8qBe4z1LVmDlP9KRJj7xnZ04E7KYXCo3SlxuSd01EODPYCSNZdreYbVBr88VvFMU-GIxNFnvMOI/s1600/P6200050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF9zX2qg1qre1gV7Sc_DkdKfG0TOXWNWqPoCIhaiVnuWSZMYaQizgYZPPNf7QDS5Ulh8qBe4z1LVmDlP9KRJj7xnZ04E7KYXCo3SlxuSd01EODPYCSNZdreYbVBr88VvFMU-GIxNFnvMOI/s320/P6200050.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is what Michael ordered. Tacos carnitas mixto, Mixed pork meat. There is everything in there; tongue, ear, Chicarrone(skin), cheek, and shoulder meat. All have been cooked very slow and very long so they are ultra tender. He also got nopal(cactus), radishes, and grilled onions on the side. I have ordered this a number of times and absolutely love it. The skin was a little too much for Michael since it was the most of the mix, but he did not dislike it, it was just too much.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdLciJvNmkqiDbbaTgPWcArjYSv9T3s29dB8Y2tqvo7Ud9dgd_cqNTWVsg5ksGybQS_wkCaHw7N9XjwniDoTdcPH2T0Lz4YieUFAlPSxMPNBJmu2fJyx98EOOAho-poXKz_dcQGEdJRnu/s1600/P6200051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdLciJvNmkqiDbbaTgPWcArjYSv9T3s29dB8Y2tqvo7Ud9dgd_cqNTWVsg5ksGybQS_wkCaHw7N9XjwniDoTdcPH2T0Lz4YieUFAlPSxMPNBJmu2fJyx98EOOAho-poXKz_dcQGEdJRnu/s320/P6200051.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I ordered the special of the day, chili relleno. It came with beans, rice, jalapeño, and avocado. It was really good. I must say my wife makes it better, but none the less, it was damn good! The beans were exceptional. They are made the right way using manteca(lard) as good bean should be. I almost asked Victor for another helping. The rice was good too. The real side dish highlight however was the jalapeño. It was cooked in the broth of the relleno, full of the flavor and tender as can be. Victor also brought me fresh made tortillas. I left more than full and with a huge smile.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sunday(Domingo) is the day to go if you want to experience this place. In broken Spanish(me) and broken English(Victor) he explained they cook a whole lamb. Heck, any day is a good day to go to El Taquito!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rating 1-10.... ELEVEN. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-7902365755013316082013-06-19T13:03:00.000-07:002013-06-19T13:03:26.199-07:00Chicken Rico<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwf685ESeezO-Og8joa4UWs_m4qRfIhXwWOYPkqHMcmySL2p1l8w3qbzIlAvcVXACPcefFj6iR-8j4Vo07o7Yszd1qVyX5u_UEYRx-Nh-2kO-MHGfqAyyE640al4Pxl3UDk-chD6O7LSP/s1600/P6190037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxwf685ESeezO-Og8joa4UWs_m4qRfIhXwWOYPkqHMcmySL2p1l8w3qbzIlAvcVXACPcefFj6iR-8j4Vo07o7Yszd1qVyX5u_UEYRx-Nh-2kO-MHGfqAyyE640al4Pxl3UDk-chD6O7LSP/s320/P6190037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Deep in the heart of Highlandtown is Chicken Rico. Presiding at 3728 Eastern Avenue, it not hard to find. You can generally just follow your nose right to it. I am not sure when it was renamed, but originally it was called Pollo Rico. Rich Chicken. This is a place you do not have to be rich to eat like a king. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD_Ultj9pqEFSmNuV57GofusIwhwfJ44-T8tXgdixFAfYOXSmKPdDfnZBP0u125jqdoCTbwlx57RFIR0zcNN9hPaWc8dTIduLSpfOypSrKr2Orkik0I-FawuhHE7sYou2XGA-ZCg8EJAbo/s1600/P6190040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD_Ultj9pqEFSmNuV57GofusIwhwfJ44-T8tXgdixFAfYOXSmKPdDfnZBP0u125jqdoCTbwlx57RFIR0zcNN9hPaWc8dTIduLSpfOypSrKr2Orkik0I-FawuhHE7sYou2XGA-ZCg8EJAbo/s320/P6190040.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The decor is kind of neutral, feeling more like an Arby's than a Peruvian chicken joint. For the number of people passing through, it is unusually clean. There is no one at the counter now, but 15 minutes after this photo was taken, there was a line 20 people long. The staff have the routine down to science so the line moves along very quickly. Chicken Rico is wildly popular. It also happens to be one of my favorite lunch places. What's good? Everything!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZW5hdCN9hnIFLKFK61PCdwU9TE4rWP3iaQeLz0jMKOuDnISvy7dis-GlYZ5wz1lQTCHKs6N7_Nijm9XbPP_S6dTjC39USNcYLuVJNwAZYDXV3tlXdqQwUAWzZxSyUGw566_cHm9g0Tu1p/s1600/P6190038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZW5hdCN9hnIFLKFK61PCdwU9TE4rWP3iaQeLz0jMKOuDnISvy7dis-GlYZ5wz1lQTCHKs6N7_Nijm9XbPP_S6dTjC39USNcYLuVJNwAZYDXV3tlXdqQwUAWzZxSyUGw566_cHm9g0Tu1p/s320/P6190038.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I tend to stick to the main stay; the charcoal broiled chicken. They have a number of Peruvian dishes including carne asada, lomo saltado, tortas, subs, and pesco frito. Chicken smicken right? WRONG! The spices they marinate this chicken in is beyond any other chicken I have tasted. I cannot put my finger on what is in the blend. It is not spicy, but it is intoxicating. Not making any implications, but I often joke that I think there is weed in the spice blend. The chicken is always tender and moist.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtN91p5h2vQlI0fc9SRT-D17g_kukA6NJ51DxuseKzn-KBqa-KhxoLyNr0zB1JIs7AaJrHiz1nNEfce69H0qEqGft82IrdRzizrskX76-j7JNxCIcA6S-e-W0UJy-3HXzlQuwidaqZRp5o/s1600/P6190039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtN91p5h2vQlI0fc9SRT-D17g_kukA6NJ51DxuseKzn-KBqa-KhxoLyNr0zB1JIs7AaJrHiz1nNEfce69H0qEqGft82IrdRzizrskX76-j7JNxCIcA6S-e-W0UJy-3HXzlQuwidaqZRp5o/s320/P6190039.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For under $7 you get a quarter chicken, two sides and a can of soda. The choice of sides change, but generally include: white rice, fried rice, fried potatoes, fried yuca, fried plantains, beans, mashed potatoes, cole slaw, soup, corn on the cob, and salad. It varies day to day on the last few. Though their descriptions sound American, these sides are all truly Peruvian in flavor. Todays choice(my usual) fried rice(Spanish style, not Chinese style) and fried plantains. Talk about filling! The portions are very generous. I want to point out the two small cups at the top of the photo. The right hand one is a curry mayonnaise. It goes well on everything. At first I thought it odd but have come to really love it. On the left is some kind of hot sauce. Once again, I cannot put my finger on what is in it. It is exceptionally good stuff. Very hot, but not over whelming.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My rating? A solid 9.</div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8214698860826433140.post-83978870847452019912013-06-18T17:25:00.001-07:002013-06-18T17:28:20.754-07:00A Fitting First Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6aJLKXTXpbwjvSkLTW5m7cW4pRuvshg1XejeqC0DnL0UUHzTqTbOYZZFjt-ZXZFmbilQZfpxnMC-s7a7FLkeKluKKrrGZa8zXVzoSfUwq13apSq9nxHxo0fs3vCRkJ3COn91O6y1pgjB/s1600/Image+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6aJLKXTXpbwjvSkLTW5m7cW4pRuvshg1XejeqC0DnL0UUHzTqTbOYZZFjt-ZXZFmbilQZfpxnMC-s7a7FLkeKluKKrrGZa8zXVzoSfUwq13apSq9nxHxo0fs3vCRkJ3COn91O6y1pgjB/s320/Image+2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is very fitting that my very first review be of one of my favorite local places to eat. <a href="http://www.jenningscafe.com/">Jennings Cafe</a> at 808 Frederick Road, right in the heart of Catonsville, MD. This is a great, local place, to eat or drink. Jennings is not fine dining, it is bar food. It does not matter what you do in my book as long as you do it well. Jennings does not do it well, they do it expertly. The waitresses all treat you as if you are their best friends whether they actually know you or not. Our Waitress, Jessica could not have been more personal able if she tried. Never overwhelming but attentive, almost anticipating, any of our needs. The wait staff is highly professional even though it really is just a local bar.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3Cf3foyIk3F1f2xKmk34KkapGfr7vTBI38e_wI5KoblP6iZ7gmL3hPLfIczFj0GqKxJVteX7fMTvwHsVK-Fc_IyFsouuwidBF9i-b_Zc0e4KU6AbuJpf5KhHN0rD2w3rXaZ1KFCLgmZx/s1600/Image+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3Cf3foyIk3F1f2xKmk34KkapGfr7vTBI38e_wI5KoblP6iZ7gmL3hPLfIczFj0GqKxJVteX7fMTvwHsVK-Fc_IyFsouuwidBF9i-b_Zc0e4KU6AbuJpf5KhHN0rD2w3rXaZ1KFCLgmZx/s320/Image+7.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The decor, I can best described as very Twin Peaks like. The red lights and copious amounts of knotty pine paneling lead me to this description. The walls are covered with horse racing photos. At one time horse racing and breeding was a big deal here in Maryland. There is also a cool phenomenon that happens here; When the door opens, everyone looks up because there is a good chance the person coming in is a neighbor or someone you know from the community. You usually see someone wave to the person who just came in. Unlike most bars, Jennings is a place for the entire family. Often we will see a bunch of the tables pushed together and large extended families eating together. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia25mX-n7_C-4nk65K_zrmUoMqU46lW8huxAAaqtuK1hSMKjxNTWafS4_uj1S-vVW1TvbAlV52zp0G_UtvEi3IDDNf2ewGMU0L0iKujDMBv2OifoUPCeqSu9xKZpcfGqUoGMOHDePgwp73/s1600/Image+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia25mX-n7_C-4nk65K_zrmUoMqU46lW8huxAAaqtuK1hSMKjxNTWafS4_uj1S-vVW1TvbAlV52zp0G_UtvEi3IDDNf2ewGMU0L0iKujDMBv2OifoUPCeqSu9xKZpcfGqUoGMOHDePgwp73/s320/Image+8.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just to prove it is family friendly, here is the crayon basket they bring you. Enough background, how was the food? Outstanding as always!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSpRbUE1dxBcH16QZ4CdUhhAW6336vS7lyKWDIVLvdOFrrO6y768ZLR6RmV277yHaY5dXrAMbp7kXFPo6YDMwLK6hUHKGnrSBKAgn4k7Q4wzW_DO9Q1tcfI6k3bXY06uRXQyHxF3RD90r/s1600/Image+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSpRbUE1dxBcH16QZ4CdUhhAW6336vS7lyKWDIVLvdOFrrO6y768ZLR6RmV277yHaY5dXrAMbp7kXFPo6YDMwLK6hUHKGnrSBKAgn4k7Q4wzW_DO9Q1tcfI6k3bXY06uRXQyHxF3RD90r/s320/Image+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Halle is kind of a grill cheese girl. Most kids love their grilled cheese and my daughter is no exception. Classic text book grilled cheese, just like all kids love.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJU8iIV_MGPj8ecq7V9YtMjZozzk8F8YzhXKE6fNANSZPnum9Cg28UOMxwhZMl5o5zuI_Bk8eMSVfeJXwaAwUIz_vmXP1VfDEPLfkIH9F_dGARAGSdKW34KcfHcBLDKTFUC8H0h79uNebp/s1600/Image+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJU8iIV_MGPj8ecq7V9YtMjZozzk8F8YzhXKE6fNANSZPnum9Cg28UOMxwhZMl5o5zuI_Bk8eMSVfeJXwaAwUIz_vmXP1VfDEPLfkIH9F_dGARAGSdKW34KcfHcBLDKTFUC8H0h79uNebp/s320/Image+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ava had the BLT. Hard to screw up a BLT, but when you put a little more than the usual four pieces of bacon, it makes for a very good BLT. Yep, very good. Thumbs up from Ava with a clean plate at the end.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieWlV32egjNPjSLnO7THC1qFNSVti7gPp_Sai_WiD0eHiTdbayBgGA5P3Ouo3PWnor2cPtGzBraTOpjHe0U1o58nMcmnOtkDicV4nBPdWjM8bl2Ak7Axgchk9Uj65ce4ZIn7gbYanzQI_z/s1600/Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieWlV32egjNPjSLnO7THC1qFNSVti7gPp_Sai_WiD0eHiTdbayBgGA5P3Ouo3PWnor2cPtGzBraTOpjHe0U1o58nMcmnOtkDicV4nBPdWjM8bl2Ak7Axgchk9Uj65ce4ZIn7gbYanzQI_z/s320/Image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beth had the rockfish basket. This is a unique twist on a bar standby, fish and chips. Marylanders love their rockfish and Jennings knows that. For those not from Maryland, rockfish is what most of you call striped bass. Battered chunks of rockfish perfectly cooked. Beth really liked hers.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-CT5T9DZ4d27TpdeUUqrJ8aUETVdPm2u-Z0c0LhK8P3j4JuH5BFLn-EtnGDEgz3EBvm8x8EXN7EVEH_PnbFc_hkPQtJAV4BkhYC6vq1oO8Jjy2OsWs76fOHB-fYlAt7whUbqvtp1RIkt/s1600/Image+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-CT5T9DZ4d27TpdeUUqrJ8aUETVdPm2u-Z0c0LhK8P3j4JuH5BFLn-EtnGDEgz3EBvm8x8EXN7EVEH_PnbFc_hkPQtJAV4BkhYC6vq1oO8Jjy2OsWs76fOHB-fYlAt7whUbqvtp1RIkt/s320/Image+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had the fish sandwich. Yep rockfish. It was awesome to say the least. I also appreciated the real, vine ripened tomatoes. I strongly suspect the tarter sauce was home made.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFsC2q2EYRNi0k3AI6FNrf0Z_75wsp0OCawr7Z8qDQr1D6lcTpE5uM0q8bqTb_ULphdCTkQ7QFTAZUVBxKSG8wXEPozUf8yjDjAPQ-r5XQVDYGL4F636V2YPY6xl-8d9XV9tya7PmNAzp/s1600/Image+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFsC2q2EYRNi0k3AI6FNrf0Z_75wsp0OCawr7Z8qDQr1D6lcTpE5uM0q8bqTb_ULphdCTkQ7QFTAZUVBxKSG8wXEPozUf8yjDjAPQ-r5XQVDYGL4F636V2YPY6xl-8d9XV9tya7PmNAzp/s320/Image+6.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The best thing about Jennings is how affordable it is. I had a Jim Beam and Coke and the girls had Sprites(one turned into a cocktail that a 6 year old truly loves) which were refilled at no additional charge. Not bad for less than $11 a head. </div>
<br />Frank Yensanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12632216121085446978noreply@blogger.com1