December 17th, 2011
It was another night at the Delaware Beaches, when the inevitable was avoiding the nightly ritual of cooking….
Did you know….that bowing represents humility? You elevate, honor and respect the other person by lowering yourself. A bow should always be returned.
And, did you know that the shredded raddish or daikon is there for a reason? To nibble on between sushi orders. Use chopsticks to eat it. Daikon is also served under sashimi or as an edible side dish.
So here was another night hitting Saketumi instead of cooking. Saketumi is located at 18814 Highway One, Rehoboth Beach. Tel. 302-645-2818. Website? www.saketumirestaurant.com.
As I came in, Kim, who is the Manager, greeted us. We had not seen each other since before Thanksgiving. At that time I told him about the Turduckens from Louisina. Guess what? Not only did Kim ordered one, but he also deep fried it!! He said it was awesome. Another convert ordering from Cajun Grocer.
But, tonight it was all about trying new things. At times I get into a rut; ordering the same old thing.
Tanaka was behind the bar. He is the Main Event. He is such an artist. His preparations do not leave his side until they are just perfectly arranged.
Then, James was there too. He was our server. His suggestions were right on target.
We decided to start with some Sashimi Tapas:
Kampachi – Amber Jack Fish (yellow tail amberjack). A carpaccio with yuzu lime dressing. Yuzu is a citrus fruit from East Asia. Looks like a very small grapefruit. It also has a tart flavor.
This was so delicious. Delicately sliced; almost transparent. The lime dressing adding that citrus taste.
The next one was the Torched Tuna. Also in a carpaccio style with jalapeno, red tobiko, chive, masago cracker, and spicy ponzu sauce. My husband was salivating at the looks of this dish, until Kim said that it had gluten. A sudden long face appeared. Kim immediately said “it’s not very good”. We all laughed. Guess who had the pleasure of eating it? Moi…and I savoured every single sliced.
The Seared White Tuna Tataki with yuzu citrus vinaigrette, with fried shallot, mango salsa and cilantro was another successful tapa. This one, my husband could eat and thought it was very good, as well.
These 3 tapas were light and the perfect appetizer. My favorite was the Kampachi, then the Torched Tuna and then the Seared White Tuna Tataki.
People were coming in and I was getting cold so I ordered a Miso Soup. James asked me if I wanted the clams, as well. I had never had it with the clams and I found that including the clams gave it a different dimension to the soup. I liked it!!
We did not stop there. An order of their Tropical Thunder had a beautiful presentation and had a fantastic taste. Mango, salmon, topped with lobster salad and tobiko (fish eggs).
My husband likes to order a crispy eel sushi; the crispier the better….loved it as well.
I can recommend Saketumi with confidence. I have never been disappointed. They are friendly, the food is fresh with beautiful colors, appealing to all your senses. The service, prompt….and I love the sushi bar. Sitting there lets me converse with the chefs, see the fish and watch their talent.
 Fresh Wasabi Have a good one. Talk to you later…Please remember that AboutMyBeaches has its own Facebook Page…Comment, and discuss any topic…I welcome you.
December 16th, 2011
It is hard to get together with friends during the holidays. Trying to catch up with Shelley, I took Susan to Ocean City, Maryland. We thought we would have something to eat. Our choice? Liquid Assets located at 94th St. and Coastal Highway. Tel. 410-524-7037. Website? http://www.ocliquidassets.com.
It was a simple dinner before the Christmas; both of my friends were Jewish. Susan had never been to Liquid Assets. I always say that it is the perfect Bodega to have lunch or dinner. Their food is so consistent and very good; the restaurant is very unique.
The mussels are a must; that broth was so good. They were pan roasted with chorizo, shallots, garlic and grilled bread. I kept using the shells as a spoon to scoop it up. Finally, our server asked me if I needed a spoon. Too late; I was then finished.
Susan and Shelley had the Caesar Salad; hearts of romaine, crisp croutons and grana padano with grilled chicken.
I had such a good entree. It was Pan Roasted Duck Breast on top of brussel sprouts, butternut squash, boucheron cheese, truffle oil, herbs, and fluer de sel. I did not want it to end. Cooked at a temperature of medium rare; it was perfect.
Deciding that it was time to go home but not before we made a stop to see the Winterfest of Lights which is taking place until January 1st at Northside Park, 125 St. & The Bay.
It was already late so no ride through the animated wonderland on the Winterfest Express. The Winterfest of Lights is an annual event for the whole family. It started around the end of November. It brings so many people; be prepared to wait during the week-ends.
Over a million lights and hundreds of displays, which are updated every year with more added to the existing displays. There is a Winterfest Village inside a festive and heated pavilion.
It was so quiet during our stop and the 60 ft. Christmas Tree was beautiful.
$5.00 for 12 and older and free for 11 and under. You can even purchase tickets in advance at the Ocean City Community Center at 200 125th St. Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the main entrance.
Winterfest of Lights opens Sundays through Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.
If you want to continue driving all the way into downtown O.C. then take a drive along Avenue of Trees on Baltimore Ave. from 15th St. to 32nd St. Lots of lights and sparkle showing a beautiful downtown.
Note: Santa will be available for photos at Winterfest of Lights until December 23rd.
Friends….what would you do without them….love to be with them…priceless!!
December 14th, 2011
I asked Janice; how would you described your store? It’s a woman’s store, definitely. Someone once came in and said; “estrogen infused”. We laughed. Is it? Well, you might have to find for yourselves.
Bella Luna is at 127 Rehoboth Avenue right in Downtown Rehoboth Beach. Tel. 302-227-0267. Website? www.bellalunatic.com. E-mail address? bellalunatic@gmail.com. Janice Elder is the shop owner.
Home, Body, Soul. Those words are on their storefront awning. They truly tell the customer what you will find inside. As you come into the Bella Luna soft music is usually playing. One look at the store and you will see that it is full to capacity.
I like the word whimsical. It is a fun store. Women, girls; they all love it. Guys come in to buy for their significant others.
A tiny corner just for something for young ones.
For the home you will find, art, fun plaques, Christmas Decorations, tea towels, great napkins and unique cards.
For the body, plenty of beautiful scarves, including Pashminas; textures and colors for all tastes. Gloves, hats, lotions, potions and scents.
Lots of necklaces and earrings. These earrings were from Turkey, in vermeil.
As we were talking a guy came in. He was in a slight rush. A present for someone special. He picked it out immediately; I think she might have sent him there. Ideas on how to wrap it were given. Off he went.
The Wine Wraps caught my attention. Turning a bottle of wine into a creative holiday present. Made by a company called Santa Barbara Design Studio. Names like Reindeer Reserve, and Vixen’s Vino to name a few.
Bella Luna makes one feel good. That must be the soul part of it. Janice is always very friendly. And, by the way, the young lady that was also working there is a great addition to the shop; very helpful in her suggestions.
At this time of the year when we are looking for something special for that best friend, hostess gift, or your own personal indulgence….it was the perfect place!!!
Have a good one!!…I will talk to you later….
December 4th, 2011
The coastal town of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, was founded in 1873. It is only 1.6 square miles and the name Rehoboth means “place (or space) for all”. The town has done such a great job in keeping its visitors coming year round, practically. Restaurants stay open; some might close for a couple of months only. Beach eateries, cafes, bars, bistros, all serving a variety of good food for all tastes.
So….on Friday evening, with a couple of friends, we decided on Lupo di Mare located at 247 C Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Tel. 302-226-2240. Website? www.lupodimarerehoboth.com. The restaurant offers take-out. And, if you are staying at Hotel Rehoboth, then, you can even order room service.
Lupo di Mare has been in the community for more than several years. It is known for its fresh cuisine; pastas and sauces are prepared daily.
Lupo di Mare serves Italian cuisine, has a very good selection of wines, including small boutique Italian wines.
A small bar is located to the right as you enter the restaurant; a full menu is available there, as well.
The room opens up; tables comfortably assembled and a little nook here or there conducive to lingering chatter. We lingered so much, we closed the restaurant. What can I say? It was relaxing!!
Sheila was our server. She was also our server back on June 13th when right before the season got crazy we went to check Lupo. She is attentive; not intrusive and her suggestions have been the best.
The first thing arriving at the table was Lupo’s focaccia bread accompanied with Virgin Olive Oil. Herbs, a tad sweet; so good.
Two starters were ordered:
The Grilled Artichokes with Sea Salt, Fresh Herbs, Lemon and Virgin Olive Oil. I have had them before and they were still so very good.
The Shaved Brussels Sprouts came just like the picture shows it. A mixture of Truffle Oil and Pecorino Cheese made this a favorite. It is also one of those “raw” foods. Please do order this starter. It is amazing.
A Fall Farm Vegetable & Mixed Green Salad was full of color and gorgeous vegetables. This was a new salad for the season.
An Arugula Salad was what I ordered and again that Pecorino Cheese, Radish, Red Wine Vinegar and Virgin Olive Oil made this salad a light and refreshing dish.
We were full of expectations for some of the entrees to arrive; new for the season were the scallops and the lamb shank.
The Pan Roasted Scallops with a cauliflower puree, shaved brussels, gold raisins and pine nuts got raved reviews. They were gorgeous and perfectly cooked and the dish looked beautiful. This dish was gluten free so my husband was delighted.
The Braised Lamb Shank, had creamy polenta, rosemary, and a winter veal fennel ragu. It was pretty chilly on Friday and this dish fit the description of “comfort food”.
I had the Pan Seared Sea Bass before. Once again I ordered it since it was so good the last time. It came with a butternut squash risotto, pancetta and spinach. It did not disappoint.
Dessert was ordered for all to share. We chose their Panna Cotta. It was glutten free and we all decided we liked custards. This Northern Italian dessert is made by simmering cream, milk and sugar together and letting it cool to form the custard. Usually, it is served with berries, caramel or chocolate. At Lupo di Mare it is served with berries. I confess; we ordered two.
I think it was time to go but not before I asked Sheila if I could take the lamb shank bone for Addy (my rescue). She had never tasted anything like it. Her review? Bring me more!!
Note: Lupo di Mare is now serving 3 courses for $19 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Check www.lupodimarerehoboth.com to check the menu. It opens daily at 5 p.m.
Have a good one!! Talk to you later….
December 3rd, 2011
Even though I just posted a few days ago how I am not fond of big malls….well, guess what? There I was on Wednesday going to the Christiana Mall near Wilmington, Delaware. Going to the Apple store I was, accompanied by my 2 sons.
The moment I saw the Apple store, there was no way I was going in. There were, practically, 400 people there. I decided they could stay and I would be doing my own thing. We were not staying too long.
As I entered Nordstrom I saw the big sign for Jo Malone. I really love this company. I have only bought their fragrances; they do have other products. This company is from London, England and the website is www.jomalone.com.
I wear cologne every single day. I love it. I think that scents can define who you are; fun, serious, or adventurous. Haven’t you been somewhere and they say “you smell good”. No inuendo whatsoever, just the fact that it was an attractive scent. Even though women are known to be the ones using more fragrances, men do have their favorites too. At times when a company makes fragrances for men and women, I buy the men’s because they are usually lighter.
I have also been in an elevator when someone has been a little heavy handed with their fragrance. Not good.
The great thing about Jo Malone fragrances is that you can combine one or two and make your own statement. I wear fresh scents; you know… citrus, light, and fresh.
I love the ones I got; French Lime Blossom and Lime Basil & Mandarin. Both of them can be used by themselves or combined.
They are pricey, but pretty much all fragrances are. Tax free shopping in Delaware helps, though. Jo Malone products do last a long time. It is a matter of an individual preference. Next time you see them, try them and let me know how you like them. They usually give plenty of samples, as well.
Right across the Apple store was Sephora. Oh, what the heck…I went in. Up and down the isles I was checking a lipstick here, mascara there…I was wondering if there was something new. One of the ladies came and I asked her what was her favorite makeup; they had so many. She said Hourglass. She also said their makeup consultant was there.
That’s how I came to know Sibel. I decided to try it. Sibel said it would not take long; it did not. Hourglass has been in existence since 2004 and the makeup is known for its innovative technology. It was started by a woman, Carisa Jones. The makeup has sun filtering ingredients; defying gravity. Interesting…
First she cleaned my face and put a primer, explaining how the primer lets your makeup really glide…and then the word gluten free. What? Yes, some of their products are gluten free; Calligraphy Liquid Liner, Film Noir Mascara, Illusion Tinted Moisturizer, Script Liquid Liner, Superficial Waterproof Bronzer, Trace Lip Liner, Veil Mineral Primer, Visionaire Eye Shadow Duo, and Vol. 6 Eye Palette.
On an on we kept talking and she then put the Veil Fluid Foundation; just a tiny bit with a brush that was made of Takelon bristles. Takelon bristles are high grade synthetic fibers, perfect for customers with allergic reactions to animal fur. PETA friendly too.
Hourglass has an ingredient matrix. All their products have not been tested on animals, are mercury free, and phthalate free. The majority are sulfate free, synthetic dye free, synthetic fragrance free, talc free and paraben free. Parabens are the most widely used preservatives in cosmetics. Others are vegan, and oil free. To check the ingredients just visit http://www.hourglasscosmetics.com and click on the individual products. A description of the ingredients will be available.
Once she was finished I thought I looked pretty good. The makeup was luminous; light, just enhancing my look. Sibel took my picture, but I don’t dare to put it here.
The cream to powder duo was great. The lip gloss felt good on my lips and the eyeliner looked nice.
Kids are kids, especially your own….I don’t think they even noticed. What did they think I was doing sitting on that chair?
Try the makeup; how far we have come….
Have a good one…talk to you later….
December 2nd, 2011
I woke up this morning and said “I am not sure if I liked that Chinese food last night”. The answer came back from the peanut gallery “Well, you sure ate enough of it.” Do I dare tell you who this came from? Of course; my husband, you know the picky one, who actually did not have any because of his gluten allergy. I wished him a very good morning, if you get my drift.
About 2 months ago Wu’s Kitchen opened at 19324 Lighthouse Plaza Blvd., in the Lighthouse Shopping Center, where one of my favorite grocery stores, Giant, is located. Also Jay’s Wayback Burgers and Casapulla’s are in that shopping center, as well. Their telephone: 302-226-1788 and 302-226-1778. They open 7 days a week. Mondays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.
Right after they opened 3 of us went. I was having trouble communicating regarding the gluten allergy so I just ordered something that I thought would be gluten free. I did one of those when your voice gets a little louder thinking that they might be able to understand you. It was crazy.
Fast forward another month. Last night I made chiles rellenos for my husband. I just did not feel like eating that so decided to take a trip to Wu’s Kitchen. It was late so nobody was there at that time. I ordered more than I needed to in order to write a post. Yeah, sure.
An order of Fried Wonton – Very crispy and I liked them.
Number 66 was Double Cooked Pork – I, actually, did not like this one too much. I thought I was ordering something else. The pork was a little dry even though it was mixed with the vegetables and sauce.
Number 16 was part of their Szechuan & Hunan Dishes – Orange Chicken. It was good and the orange rind and flavor was distinctive.
My fortune cookies did not say anything exciting. No number combinations or anything like that. Just “Declare Peace Every Day”. I do that all the time, anyway. Maybe that was it!!
Wu’s Kitchen was immaculate. The restaurant has booths and single tables. Or, like most people, you can take out.
They have specials too. Mondays through Saturdays, until 3 p.m., for $6 you can have 3 choices from their buffet, a soda, and a choice of white rice, brown rice, or fried rice. Pretty good deal.
Please note that when I write about a restaurant, you have to take into consideration that this is my personal experience. We all have different tastes and expectations….I visit the same restaurants often…small restaurants, dives, a hot dog stand, or a “cuchifrin” as they would say in Puerto Rico….looking for that exceptional bite…have a great day!!
Why don’t you try it and let me know?
November 22nd, 2011
Monday was the perfect day to write this post. First of all, I am back from Delray Beach, Florida. And, second of all, because it was, actually, one of those misty, rainy, Fall days in Rehoboth Beach. Don’t get me wrong, I am enjoying it. But, I am also remembering last Thursday when I had the day all to myself in Delray….yes, in that Village by the Sea.
Last Thursday was gorgeous. I decided to go and sit on the beach for a few hours. Knowing that I was coming back to the cold weather, I was trying to get the last bit of sun. That was a good thing, since Friday was a stormy day in South Florida.
I have told you before about the beach in Delray. No buildings to block the sun. All you see is the beach. The water was so blue and crystal clear. I had all my beach essentials; a chair, hat, sunscreen, and water. Actually, I think my chair is too low. I need a new one. A little trivial… but that’s what you do when you are on vacation.
I have been wanting to cruise the Intracoastal. Right from Veterans Park on Atlantic Ave., by the bridge, you will find the Lady Atlantic and Lady Delray. I wanted to go on one of those. Departure? 1:30 p.m. for the 2 plus hours of sightseeing.
Delray Yacht Cruises is located at 801 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33483. Tel. 561-243-0686. Website? www.delrayyachtcruises.com.
There is parking available so don’t worry about that. Remember that this is now the holiday season and these cruises will book early.
The other day, it was pretty easy since it was not that crowded. The Lady Atlantic was our yacht and you can start boarding at 1:00 p.m. Promptly they will leave at 1:30 p.m. My cruise was what they called a Daily Two-Hour Narrated Sightseeing Cruise. They have one at 10:30 a.m. and one at 1:30 p.m.
The cruises are Tuesdays through Sundays. If you are visiting Delray this week and would like to book a cruise, please check the website above mentioned.
 Intracoastal looking North from Lady Atlantic. They have special event cruises and you will need to make a reservation. For example, Sunset Cruises, Brunch Cruises, Thanksgiving Day Cruises which will include a Turkey Feast, or a Twilight Cruise on Thanksgiving to relax after eating so much Turkey.
December will bring a whole new schedule of cruises with Holiday Lights Cruises, Boat Parades, (Boyton & Delray Beaches and Boca Raton), Holiday Luncheon and Dinner Cruises, New Years Eve Cruises….call 561-243-0686 for details.
The Lady Atlantic and Lady Delray are available for private charters, as well. Please call for more info.
Lady Atlantic was ready and we were all aboard trying to get the best seats. Some were already sitting on the first level. I went inside to see how the boat looked. Beautiful woods and understated decorations.
The Lady Atlantic is fairly new. This 105 foot yacht was delivered in 2008 and was designed for South Florida’s Intracoastal Waterways.
The Intracoastal runs most of the length of the Eastern Seaboard. Natural inlets, salt water rivers, bays and sounds; some are also artificial canals.
Some of us chose to sit outdoors on the upper deck. On such a pretty day you had an advantage point.
Breanna, my server, was great. I ordered a blackened mahi mahi sandwich. Just as we started the cruise it arrived and it was truly delicious.
This was a narrated cruise. We were going south and we were about to cross 3 bridges; Atlantic Ave., Linton, and Spanish River en route to Boca. The same on the way back.
The narration started with the safety of the yacht and the history of the intracoastal. We would not be going fast; there were manatees to worry about. Some parts of the intracoastal are wide and very deep and others; so narrow and shallow.
The narrations kept us all entertained. Who lives on the intracoastal? Which are the tear downs and who owned those magnificent houses along the intracoastal? Some are specs; others gifts to someone special. You will have to go on the tour and learn more and even see them decorated for the holidays.
  
I met people from Ohio and from Chicago. Just on vacation they were; taking a day off from the beach, shopping and restaurants.
The yacht was smooth and very relaxing. Those 2 hours were gone in no time and pretty soon we were back in Delray.
I totally recommend it. I had a great time.
Have a great Holiday!! Talk to you later….
November 20th, 2011
Three restaurants in 24 hours…not bad; all different too. Still looking for the elusive stone crabs. My husband had them on his mind. The funny thing was that Everglades City, which is in Collier County, just like Naples and Marco Island, is, really, the capital of the universe for stone crabs. They should be found at a lot of restaurants. The season for stone crabs runs from October 15th until May 15th.
Jay suggested The Dock. For so many years this restaurant has been right at the City Dock overlooking Naples Bay. It is located at 12th Avenue South. Tel. 239-263-9940. Website? http://www.dockcraytoncove.com. It opens daily at 11 a.m. for lunch and dinner. On Sundays they offer brunch. On that location you will also find the Naples Yacht Club and other eateries and shops.
This is Crayton Cove which was Naples’ first sheltered mooring.
The Dock offers open air dining in a very casual atmosphere. Sandwiches, salads, pastas, ribs and raw bar are among some of their offerings.
Finally, the stone crab claws were ordered; large ones, served cold. They were good, he said. To tell you the truth, I am not crazy about them. I think I like the sauce better. To me, there is nothing better than the taste of the Maryland crab. There are different, I know, but they just don’t do anything for me.
Our, Naples resident, Jay, had the Grouper Sandwich, grilled, on Cuban bread, creole remoulade sauce and cole slaw. He was happy too.
I had the Havana. It was their “Cubano” sandwich; grill pressed Cuban bread filled with roasted pork, smoked han, Swiss cheese, and pickles with mustard sauce served with black bean and rice.
I must admit that it was delicious. I had not had one in some time and just like the bread of a lobster roll, the bread of a Cuban sandwich makes the sandwich. Then, “a la plancha” to get all the extra ingredients nice an hot.
The Dock has a full bar and is available for holiday parties and Christmas lunches. Please check the website above mentioned.
So totally satisfied we headed back to the east coast of Florida and to the town of Delray Beach…talk to you later…oh, and thank you Jay…
 
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