March 17th, 2010
At this time of the year 3 of us, who have been friends for a long time, get together to celebrate our birthdays. Usually, it is either breakfast or lunch but this week we chose dinner. We are getting to the point where our birthdays fall into different brackets on the birthday scales. You know what I mean; many years ago it used to be the 20 to 35 bracket; then it was the 35 to 50 bracket and now, oh my gosh!, it is the 50 to 65 bracket. Unbelievable!!
So, we decided to enjoy our evening at Betty’s. This is the new sister restaurant to Fish On in Lewes, Bluecoast Seafood Grill in Bethany Beach, Northeast Seafood Kitchen in Ocean View, Catch 54 in Fenwick Island and Lupo di Mare in Rehoboth Beach. Betty’s will definitely be able to keep up with this bunch.
Betty’s is the latest idea in restaurant development of Sodel Concepts. This company also has Plate Catering, which is a catering company able to serve a thousand guests or just a few. For more information, you can visit their website www.sodelconcepts.com.
Of the restaurants owned by this company, I have been to several, but only have actually reviewed one. On 8/25/09 I reviewed Fish On in Lewes; if you would like to see what I wrote all you have to do is click on August under Archives and scroll down to the date. Now Betty’s is my next review.
Betty’s is at the Midway Shopping Center located on Rt. 1 or Coastal Highway. It really is between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. The address is 18585 Coastal Highway #23. Tel. is 302-645-6160. You can visit the above mentioned website to see the menu, but don’t worry, I will tell you what we had.
Previously, at this location, there had been 2 other restaurants. If I remember correctly they were very dark inside. I was pleasantly surprised to see how well they were able to manage and bring light into Betty’s. As you come in, you will find a very open restaurant with tables comfortably placed.
My friends were waiting for me at the bar and had already made a few friends. The bar is conducive to friendly chatter because it is not a high bar. It is at the height of a dining table with really nice chairs. You can eat there, as well.
We were lead to our booth. Six people could fit easily. The restaurant has booths, individual tables and also a few bar tables, as well. Even though the restaurant is completely open, the noise level was controlled. Popular tunes were playing in the background.
I think the decor is retro but not so much that it becomes a theme. I liked it.
In how many ways can you say something was really tasty? As I am about to tell you what we ordered, I will also want to let you know that after my first bite, the word that came to mind was “yummy”.
We ordered for starters the Home Style Deviled Eggs, Mustard Cream, Shaved Celery, and Radish. This is the second time I have been in a restaurant and found deviled eggs on the menu. The first time was at The Office in Delraly Beach (my post on 1/16/10) and those had a truffled oil. Betty’s deviled eggs were delicious and traditionally prepared.
We had the House Garden Salad. At first I questioned myself, why order a plain garden salad, but it was crisp and fresh and the house mustard vinaigrette dressing was light and refreshing.
The entrees were all, again, “yummy”. We tasted each other dishes. We all ordered something different; perfect for my reviews.
I ordered the Braised Beef Short Rib Stroganoff, with a wild mushroom rosemary cream, veal demi glace, and egg noodles. The beef melted in your mouth and the combination of the cream and egg noodles and peas was comfort food at its best.
Another dish ordered was the Grilled Salmon, with a mustard BBQ, pickled root veggies and a creamy corn pudding. It was beautifully presented. The sauce was even had a hint of citrus. It was great. A discussion about polenta followed the tasting of the dish.
The next dish ordered was an Opened Faced Hot Roast Beef Sandwich, on white bread, mashed potatoes, and mushroom veal gravy. It had a large pile of roast beef that smelled and tasted very good. What a combination!
Our sweet ending was a cherry crumbled pie. We all shared and thank God, otherwise and extra walk around the block would definitely be a must.
Other desserts were Nora’s Pretzel Salad, Banana Cream Pie and of course, how could you be at Betty’s and not have Apple Brown Betty?
Our waitress was Abby and she was so friendly and easy to talk to. I asked her if people were wondering who Betty actually is. Some have asked, but not many. I guess Betty could be anyone; a grandmother, an aunt, Betty Poop, Betty & Veronica and Betty Crocker.
Betty’s is simple with uncomplicated dishes and great prices.
Note: I was not sure if my husband could eat at Betty’s because of his gluten allergy but they said that entrees could be adjusted to his needs. Also, Betty’s will start having daily specials next week.
It is beautiful today in the Delmarva Peninsula. Talk to you later….I have to go and get my brisket….
March 12th, 2010
I was going through my house, peaking into the closets and wondering if I should start my spring cleaning. I have perfectly good items that I am not really using and are in good condition.
I used to take them to the Salvation Army right there on Rt. 1, but that’s gone. I have taken items, in the past, to the New Life Thrift Shop, located at 34686 Jiffy Way, Lewes, DE 19958. Even though, it is Lewes, the Thrift Shop is right there on Rt. 1 or Coastal Highway; behind the Jiffy Lube and across Bethany Blues. The tel. is 302-644-0171.
The very first time I dropped items off, I never got out of the car. It was like a drive through. I just dropped my stuff and kept on going.
Yesterday, I decided to learn a little bit about New Life Thrift Shop and I got out of the car and asked to talk to someone. I mentioned that I had a website/blog style and wanted to write about the shop.
I met Jerry Peregoy. Jerry has taken over for the past year the helm of the Thrift Shop. We sat down and he was so friendly and easy to talk to. A lot of times I try not to write too much; I am so interested in looking at the person in the eyes. Jerry is enjoying what he is doing; a happy man, with a nice smile and sparkling eyes.
The New Life Thrift Shop started 15 years ago. Dutch Kelley started it in the Epworth Church building on Baltimore Ave. in Rehoboth Beach. I know Epworth well because my youngest son attended its pre-school many years ago. From Epworth they went to a place in Old Landing Rd. and from there they went to Rt. 1 and the present site was purchased.
New Life Thrift Shop is under the umbrella of LRAC, which stands for the Lewes-Rehoboth Association of Churches. There are quite a few churches; different denominations, together meeting the needs of others. LRAC is working for the common good of the community through action and service. They do have a website: http://LRAC.christian.net. In it you will find its purpose, faith statement, membership information and contacts.
I still could not get over how organized this building was. It really runs like a well oiled machine. There is a space and a corner for everything; signs designating isles, shelves, really, you have got to see it to believe it. This is not your average thrift shop. The merchandise is in very good shape. You will find sofas; all shapes and sizes, t.v.s (they are getting some flat screens now), clothing, toys, dolls, books, houseware, pictures, armoires, lamps, sinks, and believe or not they have had boats, Rvs. and they just sold a car for $850 with 35,000. Check the pictures.
New Life Thrift Shop is tax exempt because is non-profit. Every single person is a volunteer. They are really the first arm of LRAC. All the churches involved donate, but the bulk of monetary donations, after paying debts, electric, heating, etc. really comes from New Life.
This Thrift Shop does not give anything away. There is a system to be followed. It is open to the public just like any other store. But, for people in desperate need, the first step for them is to contact the local proper organizations like Casa San Francisco, Habitat for Humanity, Lend a Hand, or Social Services. These organizations will take all needed information and will send these people to New Life Thrift Shop with a set amount to spend. New Life Thrift Shop will give them 25% off. I saw the prices allocated to some of the merchandise and they are good.
LRAC has a Board. They meet the 2nd Tuesday of the month at rotating churches. The meetings are open to the public.
If a person decides to put something on lay away, then a deposit is required. They will then put the merchandise in another building (they have 3 buildings on the property), and it should be paid up and picked up within a few weeks; otherwise, it is put back for sale and the deposit is not returned.
New Life Thrift Shop can deliver and pick up items. All you have to do is call 302-644-0171 and make arrangements. They do this only during the week.
Gift Certificates are available for purchase and redeemable in merchandise only.
There is something to be said for their system; it works!!
I really enjoyed talking to Jerry and Dutch. They introduced me to Florence who is the person in charge of the money.
Please note that since this organization works only with volunteers, they are always looking for help. If you have a few hours or a day here or there, please give them a call or stop by. There is a short form to fill out; I got one. Maybe, I might even see you there.
 Go ahead; take one
Hours of Operation are:
Mondays, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Saturdays, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Sundays, closed
Have a great week-end. See you and talk to you later….
March 4th, 2010
 The Lobster Man - One of my Favorites Some say passion is your key to success and others say that if you love what you do then you will never work a day in your life.
The subject of my post is Tiffany Erwin Cant. When you meet her for the first time you can feel the passion she feels for her painting; it is palpable.
I met Tiffany, through Anita Jennings. I have written about Anita in the past; she is one of the advertisers on my blog. I have been wanting to write a post about Tiffany and her art.
Tiffany was born in North Carolina. She graduated with a BFA and Certificate in Communication Design from Parsons School of Design in New York City.
She has been a resident in Delray Beach since 1983. She and her husband have travelled extensively.
Tiffany has been painting in oils and other mediums for 30 years and has exhibited her work in the All-Florida Show at the Boca Raton Museum of Art, the Ritter Gallery at Florida Atlantic University, Gallery on Green in Key West and Art Expo in New York City.
Tiffany has lived in the Bahamas and it is only when you have experienced the daily life of your subjects that, as an artist, you can then translate them into a canvass. The faces, expressions, the colors, the fruits, the ocean and fishing; is all real.
Tiffany paints original pieces and from those she has giclees made. Both, originals and giclees are for sale. The prices differ between originals and giclees; sizes also affecting the cost. But, I will tell you that her prices are reasonable. The best way to get an idea of Tiffany’s work is by going to her website. Her type of website is like an exhibit. She is constantly adding to her collection. If you have an interest in Tiffany’s art then please call her to 561-276-3839. She is so easy to talk to. Her website is www.tiffanycant.com.
What is a giclee? The word is derived from the French language word “le gicleur” which means “nozzle”, or more specifically “gicler” which means to squirt, spurt or spray.
A giclee is an individually produced, high resolution, hi-fidelity, high tech reproduction done on a special large format printer. They are produced from digital scans of existing artwork. It is a new vibrant medium for art.
They can be printed from canvass to watercolor paper, to vinyl, to transparent acetates. They are so superior to traditional lithography in nearly every way. Colors are brighter, last longer and details are crisper. Giclees are sold by the square inch. Large print sizes are available.
I invited my friend Donna, from Baltimore, to come with me to meet Tiffany. We arrrived at her house in the morning. She lives in a beautiful piece of property in Delray. Her home is her museum; the paintings adorning many walls in her house. It is a unique Florida house; the paintings enhancing every aspect of her home. The palm trees, the koi ponds, the intracoastal all in unisom to serve as inspiration, as well.
Following is an Exhibit of her work:
Tiffany sometimes paints other subjects. For example, one of her beloved dogs. He is a little older now. The mermaids, the Spanish dancers, the monkey and the coral reef, which is in 3 panels; could be bought as single panels or all 3.
The koi is her newest subject. No giclees have been made yet, but will be done soon. Tiffany does not have to go far to get inspiration since her ponds are all she has to see.
I have to show you Tiffany’s inspiration for the koi paintings; her own backyard.
And what subject could this artist possibly take in the future? Maybe the frogs, perhaps? All she has to do is look past her door.
So, as Donna and I said our farewells, on a chilly South Florida morning, we were warmed up by Tiffany’s graciousness and definitely by her work.
I could have put a sweater on, sat outside and just gaze at the view.
Have a great Day!! Talk to you later…..
Note: Information for giclee was taken from www.en.wikipedia.org and from www.novaspace.com/AUTO/giclee.html.
February 24th, 2010
Where to get a hair cut when you are not sure where to go? Word of mouth is usually the best advertisement so our son directed my husband to Avenue Haircutters right on Atlantic Ave. I hope the men reading this post pay attention because this barber shop is a true and reasonable one.
Avenue Haircutters is located on 777 East Atlantic Ave., Suite A-5 in Delray Beach. It is right across from the Blue Anchor Pub in the Atlantic Plaza. The shop is towards the back of the Plaza. They have 3 barbers available.
As I was waiting for my husband I had to take a few pictures. Then, I started wondering about the pole that shows that you are in a barber shop. You know, it has red, white and blue.
Apparently, barber shops were places where men gathered, relaxed, read magazines and enjoyed each other’s company while also engaging on gossip, sharing jokes, talking about sports and politics, and debating the events of the day. I think barber shops are older than women’s hair salons so really they started all this before us.
Originally, the trimming and shaving, which by the way was a bit messy and painful; before the invention of the razor, was done at home and probably by a servant. Later on in the mid 19th century as towns were increasing and with the invention of the razor blade, barber shops were found on the main street of about every small town.
It may be helpful to know that the barbers and surgeons were once the same profession. Barber-surgeons were authorized to perform like a phlebotomist, who is the person drawing blood for analysis.
The barber shops were distinguished from other businesses by the red, white and blue striped pole out in front. The red and white were symbols of the blood and bandages of surgeons and the blue was added to make the pole resemble the American flag.
My husband got a really nice hair cut. And, as we were walking around the plaza, a gentleman came out of the barber shop and asked us if we were from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. His name was Butch Bradley and he was the owner of Avenue Haircutters. He had lived in Rehoboth and his barber shop was at the Midway Shopping Center on Coastal Highway. He had just been at the Delaware beaches and loves the whole area. We talked and it was so nice of him to have approached us. This is what makes these small towns so unique; a friendly conversation in the middle of the Plaza with someone you just met.
Then, we talked to Butch about Bethany Beach, Delaware and he proceeded to inform us that the owner of La Cigale, Francis Touboul, has a house in Bethany.
Well, since it was around 1:30 we then decided to have lunch at La Cigale and this is my next post. Being that it was a little cloudy, a little cooler and we were a little hungry we marched ourselves to La Cigale.
La Cigale has been in Delray Beach for a long time. It used to be right on Atlantic Ave., in the same spot where the new Seagate Hotel is now located. As renovations kept going on Atlantic Ave., it was so nice to know that this restaurant had opened in another location with plenty of parking and more space.
La Cigale is located on 253 S.E. 5th Ave., in Delray Beach, and near Atlantic Ave. At night you can spot the torches outside. Tel. is 561-265-0600. The website is www.lacigaledelray.com.
And the e-mail address is lacigalle@bellsouth.net.
We have been to the restaurant in the past; lunch and dinner. The restaurant is known to locals and natives alike.
When we entered the restaurant, the first thing I noticed was color. Immediately I felt good.
The tables were covered with tablecloths, very unpretentious, European, and a friendly staff.
I love mussels and once I saw them on the menu I knew that I was having them. They were Prince Edward Island Mussels with garlic, olive oil, tomato, basil leaves, white wine and a side order of pomme frites. They were so tasty and sweet, with that lite broth and perfect for lunch. I was even happier when I saw that they had placed a spoon for the broth. No way was I leaving that behind.
The pomme frites (French for French Fries) were perfectly cooked; crispy. Just the right size, as well, and I did not feel any guilt eating them all. Definitely, worth it.
My husband had the Calamari and Escarole sauteed in a white wine, garlic, olive oil and hot cherry peppers. That came with their soup of the day which was a white bean soup. I tasted both dishes; the calamari was tender, and the bean soup was rich and perfectly seasoned.
Then, we started talking to Francis, the owner. Can you believe he has had a house in Bethany Beach, Delaware for 20 years? He came from France, his first job in Bethany was at Gigi’s. Only locals would remember that one. And, has lived in Washington, as well. He was friendly, energetic and just the perfect host.
La Cigale has the perfect blend of Mediterranean food and you will always find the Coq Au Vin, the Beef Bourguignon; you know all those French dishes that make our mouths water.
One of those dishes, a dessert one and a favorite is the Creme Brulee. It is French for “burnt cream”. It is considered to be French, but the English and Spanish claim credit, as well.
At La Cigale the creme brulee was just the way I like it. The original; creamy and no other flavors added.
La Cigale offers Happy Hour from Mondays through Fridays from 5 until 7 p.m. Two for one drinks with complimentary hors d’ouvres at the bar only. Half price appetizers from their regular menu at the bar, as well.
The restaurant has capabilites for private parties. Please visit their website, above mentioned, because you can read about the restaurant, check the pictures and most of all look through the different menu proposals and hors d’ouvres selections for any parties you might want to hold at La Cigale.
If you are visiting Delray, try it and let me know how you what you think.
Note: I did not know that Francis Touboul, the owner of La Cigale also owns, Atlantique Cafe located on 777 E. Atlantic Ave. in the Atlantic Plaza, 561-272-1170 where this post actually started. As soon as I try it, I will let you know.
Yesterday I visited 3 places. Avenue Haircutters and La Cigale in Delray and then in the evening Michael R. McCarty’s in Palm Beach, which will be tomorrow’s post.
Information on the barber shop pole was taken from www.fashionencyclopedia.com and from www.wisegeek.com.
Until then……talk to you later….
February 21st, 2010
I have been thinking about Second Street Grille for a few days. I have been wondering why is it that I never, at least, in my circle of friends, hear anyone say “Let’s go to Second Street Grille”. Really, I never do. So, I decided to find out for myself. Believe me, Second Street Grille has been in the center of Historic Lewes for many years and I think the last time I might have been there was maybe 2 or 3 years ago.
Second Street Grille is located on 115 Second Street. The tel. is 302-644-4121. The website is www.secondstreetgrille.com. Please check the website because you will be able to see the menu on-line. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. During the rest of the week they have lunch from 11:30 until 3:00 p.m., lite fare from 3:00 until 10:00 p.m. and dinner from 5:00 until 10:00 p.m. The Sunday Brunch is from 11:00 until 2:00 p.m. The happy hour starts at Noon.
Lewes looked really pretty on Saturday. It was crowded too. I think people have cabin fever and are ready to just walk and enjoy a sunny day.
I came through the side door of Second Street Grille which is the entrance to the bar area. As I came in, there was a step-down and I did not see it, but I also did not see a sign warning patrons about it. Probably the locals already know that is there, though.
This corner of the restaurant where the bar is located also has about 7 tables, all of them with crisp white tablecloths. It is decorated with French posters and the walls are red and yellow so I imagine the look is more like a bistro. The music was good oldies.
It was lunch time and there were plenty of specials available. It seemed the waitress knew a lot of the people coming in so I figure that they must have been regulars; a mature crowd.
Second Street Grille is known for their crabcakes but I really was not in the mood for them so I decided to have the Second Street Grille Salad with fried oysters on top with their balsamic vinaigrette dressing. The salad was loaded with fresh veggies. I never think to put radishes in my salad, but these ones were very good; crunchy and sweet. The rest of the veggies were yellow squash, broccolini, cucumber and watercress. It had a very nice presentation.
In regards to the fried oysters, I will have to tell you that I was somewhat disappointed. I like the breading of fried oysters lite because when you bite into a fried oyster you want it to be moist and salty; you want to taste the oyster and not the breading. What I tasted the most was a thick breading that covered the oyster. There is no other way to say it.
I like a balsamic vinaigrette dressing with a bit more substance than the one I was served at Second Street Grille. There was something missing. More of an aged balsamic; a bolder taste. It was o.k. but not my favorite.
After paying my check I decided to walk to the main dining room. The way I feel about the restaurant is that, granted, they do not have the best view in town but also I found that there was a lack of atmosphere and not just today, but I remembered thinking about that years ago as well. I don’t know if it is the way the tables are placed on that long hall or that maybe the bar area needs to be more casual and lively.
Second Street Grille definitely has a following and I understand that Sunday Brunch is a favorite.
I had a decent lunch, but there is room for improvement. I will go back and check it again in the summer.
Until then….talk to you later…
January 19th, 2010
On Monday, it was probably one of the prettiest days since we have been in Florida. Low humidity, crisp and perfect temperature.
I had to go towards West Palm Beach, which is about 25 minutes north of Delray Beach. Easy drive, especially on such a day.
I have to congratulate the City of West Palm. This city looks so nice and offers so much; water accessibility, museums, restaurants, shopping, the arts, and walking promenades. I took a drive through Flager Ave. and it really did look so pristine.
I then went towards Clematis Street which is one of the streets in West Palm where a lot of the restaurants are located and perfect for walking and window shopping as well.
I parked at the corner of Olive St. and Banyan. That’s when I met George. George works for United Parking System, right there on the corner and it was $5 to park. We immediately started a conversation. George has a wealth of information. He is retired and has been around the globe a few times. From this location he has an advantage point. He interacts with the people that park in this parking lot, whether they are driving a Ferrari or the not so expensive kind. He has a clear view of the intracoastal; he pointed out the magnificent sailboat anchored and informed me that the owner was from humble beginnings in South Africa and then diamonds were discovered in his property and the rest is history. The gentleman now rubs elbows with the wealthy but feels comfortable in his shorts and sandals at the same time.
Since I was looking for a place to eat, I decided that George probably would be a good source of information. And he was. He really is a foodie too. He pointed us to Reef Rd Rum Bar, right on Clematis. He also wanted a review.
George said that the best restaurant in the whole area, was one I could not go to. Maria from Trieste, Italy is a magnificent cook and a very classy lady. I will leave it at that. Thanks George because you made my day just by being so friendly.
We walked over to Reef Rd Rum Bar, 223 Clematis St., West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Tel. 561-838-9099. Fax 561-838-9051.
This restaurant is owned by the Big Time Restaurant Group who owns several restaurants like City Oyster in Delray Beach, Grease, Rocco’s Tacos in West Palm, City Cellar in West Palm and New York and Big City Tavern in Ft. Lauderdale. The website is www.bigtimerestaurants.com and by visiting it you will be able to find out about each of the restaurants including menus, and other info. Each restaurant is different.
Reef Rd is very casual with a Tiki style decor. We sat outside because besides the beautiful day, there something about eating outdoors. Since it was a holiday Clematis Street was quiet but the lunch hour was comfortably crowded.
This restaurant specializes in Mojitos and has about 120 bottles of barrel aged and premium rums. Along with a relaxed atmosphere you have a menu that will cater to young and old; chowders, salads, fish, sandwiches, etc.
One of their services is Hook & Cook which means you catch it, bring it to the restaurant and they’ll cook it for you. Please call them up for more information.
Reef Rd has a frequent lunch card, which means that if you buy 5 lunches (1 stamp per visit) you will receive the 6th free.
I had a very good lunch. I ordered the Greek Salad with the Crispy Grouper on top. The salad was good but the grouper made it better. This fish was perfectly seasoned and the batter was just so light; the fish was moist and fresh. Loved it.
I have mentioned before that my husband has to eat gluten free. One of the features on the menu was Fish Tacos. We asked if the shell was made out of flour or corn. Unfortunately, it was flour, but Angie, our very competent and friendly waitress, instructed the kitchen to go across the street, to Rocco’s and get corn tortillas, which are allowed on a gluten free diet. Not soon after we saw someone run over and then back with a container of the shells. I thought that was so nice and thoughtful that even if I had not enjoyed my meal I would have had to say that I did because that gesture said it all. His fish tacos, blackened, were very good and came with salad and yellow rice with beans. He said their taste was close to the first ones he had in San Diego years ago.
So, after such an enjoyable lunch we walked back and reported to George who was happy to hear we liked it and what else do I have to say but see you later…
January 10th, 2010
For being the first week-end after New Year’s I was surprised to see that Rehoboth and Coastal Highway were crowded. I thought everyone would be pretty much worn out after all the shopping, partying, and eating.
Debbie and I were getting together for lunch. You remember her? She went kayaking with me this past summer in Fenwick Island and has been with me to some of the restaurants I have reviewed.
We ended up at Casa DiLeo on 721 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Tel 302-226-8660. The owner and Executive Chef is John J. DiLeo.
Casa DiLeo has been in the area for some time now. It has a big following and back in October they expanded their restaurant. This is the first time that I have seen the expansion and it looked good and certainly added more seating availability.
The hours of operation are: Mondays through Thursdays 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Any time that my friends and I get together for breakfast, lunch or dinner, we must drive the wait staff crazy. We just talk, might glance over the menu, and without missing a beat we keep on talking. We tell them to come back in a little while, many times. It’s just the way it is. But, isn’t it nice to be able to share a meal with best friends? I love it.
Casa DiLeo is a fullfledge restaurant, but I am going to be reviewing lunch time. That is why I went there today. My favorite room is really the first one when you come in. As I come in, the music is playing and I feel the welcoming atmosphere of a Italian trattoria. The colors, the prints; all add to that feeling.
A trattoria is an Italian style eating establishment, less formal than a restaurant, but more formal than a tavern. The service is casual, with the food being mostly regional and local.
Casa DiLeo has a full bar and a very good selection of wines, including the PortoVino Italian wines. Try them and let me know how you like them.
This restaurant has take out and delivery. The specialties are New York Style Pizza, Pasta, Subs, Calzone/Stromboli, Soup and Salads. For dinner, some of their offerings are: Chicken & Eggplant Parmesan, Chicken or Veal Marsala, DiLeo’s Homemade Chesse Lasagna, which is very good, DiLeo’s Homemade Meat Lasagna, which is also delicious.
I usually get the Greek Salad with their balsamic dressing. Both, Debbie and I ordered it today, but we added a slice of pizza for each of us. I had really forgotten how big their portions are. But, check the picture of one slice of NY Style Pizza. The salad was fresh, full of vegetables with a nice slice of Feta cheese on top.
Casa DiLeo has a wide variety of subs. From the traditional subs like Italian to the unique ones like Sausage Parmesan or Veal Parmesan.
The same goes for the Calzone and the Stromboli. Chef DiLeo has his own “Boli” like the DiLeo Boli which is ground beef, Italian seasonings, sauce and cheese.
Calzone? Stromboli? A Calzone is like an Italian turnover which is stuffed with tomato and mozzarella and possibly other ingredients like pizza toppings. The stromboli is a type of turnover filled with various cheeses, Italian meats and veggies. The dough is Italian bread dough.
Everyone has something to say about pizzas. Whether you like the thick or thin crust, I would have to say that Casa DiLeo has a pretty good one. They have non Premium Toppings like tomatoes, low fat cheese, mushrooms, onions, sausage, etc. and they also have Premium Toppings like Bacon, Spinach, Feta Cheese, Anchovies, Portabella Mushrooms and more.
The House Specialty Pizzas; Low Fat Veggie, Diablo Pizza (red devil-hot), Supreme (8 toppings), New York White Ricotta, Mediterranean which has feta cheese, Kalamata olives, spinach, artichokes, fresh tomatoes, and extra virgin olive oil. I have had the Diablo Pizza in the past and really enjoyed it.
Casa DiLeo offers about 8 pasta sauces, so you have your pick from tomato sauce to Pomodoro (red) clam sauce.
We come to the sweet endings and how could you leave without having a Canolli with DiLeo’s homemade cream? Very popular and award winning is DiLeo’s Chocolate Mousse, and one of my favorite desserts is the Zabaglione with fresh berries. We did manage to leave without having dessert.
Zabaglione is a dessert made with egg yolks, sugar, Marsala wine or Prosecco and sometimes cream, mascarpone cheese or whole eggs. It is a very light custard.
And off we went, with a slower gait, but happy…
Another cold night in the beautiful Delmarva Peninsula…but I will talk to you later…
Note: Information on trattoria, Calzone, Stromboli and Zabaglione was taken from:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/trattoria http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/calzone http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/stromboli_(food) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zabaglione
January 2nd, 2010
On December 22nd I got that craving for barbecue. It must be that it has been so cold that I just wanted to remember how it tasted when you barbecued outdoors. You have to admit that those lazy summer days are something to look forward in about 5 months. Yeah, that long.
I love to barbecue any time of the year. Charcoal is what I use. And, I enjoy the whole process. No need to rush it. I wait patiently for the coals to be just right. You cannot rush cooking or its method. It just does not come out the right way.
So, since I had not barbecued in some time this was a good night to try Bethany Blues.
This restaurant is not new to the beaches. The first restaurant is in Bethany Beach. Also, Bethany Blues is owned by the same owner of Starboard in Dewey Beach. Needless to say, they know how to run an establishment that services a lot of customers every night.
Bethany Blues, Lewes, opened late spring of 2009. Immediately, it was a success; crowded every night. To tell you the truth, not until I went there just before Christmas, I could not have told you it it was good, bad, or mediocre. Boy, was I surprised. If you are in the mood for ribs, smoked ribs, chicken, steaks and the works, it really is going to satisfy your craving.
Since I am reviewing the one in Lewes I want to tell you that they are located on 618285 Coastal Highway (Rt. 1), Lewes, DE 19958. Tel. is 302-644-2500 and the website is www.bethanyblues.com.
My husband called Bethany Blues before going there because we wanted to find out how they would deal with someone with a gluten allergy.
Bethany Blues if perfectly capable of handling this allergy or any other food allergy. They told my husband what sauces he could eat and also what foods he could choose. There were plenty of choices. They also mentioned that about 3 times per night they get a gluten question.
It has plenty of parking and the restaurant itself is pretty big. There is a bar with a fireplace and very cozy, indeed. Choosing to eat there looks like it could be very casual, comfortable and toasty this time of the year but I just wanted one of their booths.
Britney was our waitress and she was very knowledgeable about the gluten food allergy. The manager did come to speak to us and reiterated the sauces and foods he could eat.
We both wanted the “all you can eat” barbecued meats. They had a special that night. Britney suggested I start with the brisket and it was the perfect choice because it melted in your mouth. My husband started with the baby back ribs and he thought they were great.
We had these other ribs that were cooked in a buffalo wing sauce so when you bit into them you had that taste. They were so tangy and tasty. I really loved them. It did not take long to get full but it was worth it.
It is so true when they say that their barbecue is authentic because you have to have patience and 100% wood smoke. Bethany Blues uses hickory as their primary wood. No need for gas or electricity.
The restaurant is able to handle private parties, large or small, as well as catering. They welcome families in the restaurant; just be considerate of others and keep those little rascals in check.
Bethany Blues uses locals and natives in providing them with milk and cream like the famous and delicious Lewes Dairy. The sausage is made daily from Milton Sausage on 113 Union Street, Milton, their produce from Always in Bloom Producer’s View, and the beer and Blue Hen Vodka from Dogfish Head Brewery.
So, when I tell you that I have had my fill of meat in December, I am not kidding. I hope you read my blog on 12/26 regarding Hickman’s Meats, which provides meats for Bethany Blues. Well, needless to say, I have been having sashimi, both from the Cultured Pearl and Saketumi in the past few days.
Soon enough that barbecue craving will start creeping up again and I now know where to go.
Note: some of the info. was taken from Bethany Blues’ website. The address for the restaurant in Bethany is: 6 North Pennsylvania Ave., Bethany Beach, DE 19930. Tel. 302-537-1500
I cannot believe that this is my first blog for 2010. Again, Best Wishes…
 
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