September 26th, 2011
I almost forgot to tell you about my casual lunch at BruLe, which is a bistro and a wine house in the Pineapple Grove Art District of Delray Beach.
It was in July and Rosalyn and I had just returned from the Norton Museum in West Palm Beach, where an Exhibit called Out of This World: Extraordinary Costumes from Film and Television was underway until 9/11/11. It was great.
The Norton Museum of Art is located at 1451 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Tel. 561-832-5196. Website? www.norton.org.
Another Exhibit was From A to Z: 26 Great Photographs from the Norton Collection is still going on until October 16th. That was great too.
Also, until October 9th is Striking Impressisons: European Prints from the Museum Collection.
And, The Art of War in East Asia will be on exhibit until November 13th.
It was hot and we were hungry. I had not had lunch at BruLe, so, why not? The address is 200 NE 2nd Ave. Right at City Walk in Delray. The tel. is 561- 274-2046. Website? www.brulebistro.com.
In the above mentioned website you will be able to check their menus. They open for lunch and dinner.
They had a great selection of wines being that it is also a wine house.
We ordered 2 salads. Rosalyn ordered the Arugula Salad with candied pecans, green apple, bleu cheese and red onion and a house vinaigrette.
I ordered their Market Salad which had baby greens, assorted veggies and a white balsamic vinaigrette. Then, to finish it off I topped it with grilled chicken.
Both salads were delicious on such a hot day.
I think BruLe has a very diverse menu that will agree with most of its customers. Can’t wait to have dinner next time.
Order at the counter, take a seat and they will bring your order to your table.
Note: Carryout is available. But, if you would like delivery, then call The Delray Delivery Dudes at 561-900-7060. Visit their website, www.delraydeliverydudes.com. Their hours for delivery are: Sundays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 1 a.m.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later…
September 17th, 2011
I am welcoming this change in the weather like you would not believe. It is so gorgeous and crisp; makes you want to get up and do something.
If you are spending time this week-end at the beaches, you will hear the roar of motorcycles up and down Coastal Highway (Rt. 1). They are mainly heading towards Ocean City, MD, where the Delmarva Bike Week is presently taking place.
The other day I went to have lunch at Liquid Assets. This restaurant, bar and beautiful bodega is located at 94th St. & Coastal Highway. Tel. 410-524-7037, website? http://www.ocliquidassets.com. I think this is the perfect opportunity to write the post on L.A. since just as it opens for lunch, it is also open for dinner.
I took my sister in law, Susie, on this outing. I wanted her to see how different it was. Don’t have one in our Delaware Beaches.
It has a bistro atmosphere with different choices for dining. You may choose to stay in the package goods section where you can see the comings and goings of patrons, and at the same time have a quiet dining experience.
You can also sit at the bar, or decide to dine in their separate dining room, which might be more intimate. The feel of it is, definitely, more like a wine cellar.
Susie and I decided on a corner table in the middle of the package goods store.
Diane was our waitress and she turned out to be very knowledgeable about the menu and very friendly, as well.
Usually, I do have their Pan Roasted Mussels. I truly love them and even though I have had very good ones in other restaurants; these, at L.A. are totally #1.
But, I decided to have something else. I went with their L.A. Burger. It was made with Creekstone Farms beef, with a traditional cucumber and red pepper relish, bibb lettuce, Denhay English Cheddar, and thick cut fries on a Kaiser roll. Temperature? Medium rare.
As you can see from the pictures, it was a very generous portion. How I ate it? I don’t know. To tell you the truth I don’t know why I even dare to question this since I have always been able to finish all my food.
It was juicy, well seasoned and I really did like the addition of the bibb lettuce.
Susie had their Deluxe Grilled Cheese. This sandwich is always on their menu and it is very popular. Applewood smoked bacon, sliced apples, cheddar, spinach, pane dolce and thick cut fries.
Great combination of flavors for this time of the year. We had to open it so that you could see what it looked like inside.
Liquid Assets has an extensive wine collection, as well as plenty of spirits. As I walked around a few caught my attention.
Then, one in particular. It was a Vodka called Tito’s Handmade Vodka. In large letters it also said Gluten Free.
This vodka is handmade in Austin, Texas by Mockinbird Distillery. It has been in the press lately, as well. It has the designation of being the First Spirit to be Made in USA Certified. If you visit their webiste, www.titosvodka.com, you will find very interesting info., including the press releases from Buy American Challenge, WSJ, Martha Stewart, NY Times and CNN Money.
Liquid Assets also has catering, and the availability to hold private parties in the restaurant.
By visiting their website, above mentioned, you will find their menus, including their cheeses, their martinis and their beer list. Throughout the year they hold events and interesting specials, as well. You can even share your lazy dog photos with L.A.
Lazy? Don’t want to cook? They have carry-out.
You can find them on Facebook and Twitter.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later….
May 21st, 2011
 The Raw Bar is between the Seafood Market and the Restaurant It was raining last night and I was not sure if I wanted to go out. Plus, the fact that the Beaches were crowded. So many events and activities on this week-end; just a prelude of next week-end’s official start of the Summer Season at the Delaware Beaches.
But, the craving was for oysters and a raw bar. I had gotten an e-mail from Big Fish Grill announcing the opening of their new raw bar. It is an addition to their restaurant. Same location at 20298 Coastal Highway. Telm 302-227-FISH. Website? www.bigfishgrill.com.
You can either go through the front door of Big Fish Grill or you can enter through a side door directly into the Raw Bar (used to be their Tiki Bar). It is between the Big Fish Grill Market and the restaurant.
As you enter, the high top tables and the seating at the raw bar are for grabs. For the regular tables you need to talk to the staff.
This room is noisy and lively. Shucking oysters, peeling shrimp, pass down the clams, and help me open this lobster. While you are at it hand me a beer or give me another glass of wine, please. That’s the atmosphere!!
For the Memorial Week-End the restaurant and raw bar will be opening from Friday until Monday from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. with dinner starting at 4 p.m.
As of June 1st dinner will be starting at 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and at 4:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Back to my Fruits de Mer. This restaurant is known for their fresh seafood. So, the offerings might be changing from time to time. Last night some of the clams and oysters were Middle Necks, Blue Points Chincoteague and Delaware Bay (NJ).
Since we sat at the bar we could see what was being served. There was a Cold Seafood Plater which had oysters, clams, shrimp and Main lobster.
We ordered some crab claws and shrimp. The size of the shrimp was impressive and I was not sure how they were going to be. You know, at times those big shrimp are not that great. Well, surprised again; sweet, moist and definitely good.
Then we ordered some Blue Points and I must admit I do love oysters even though May does not have an “r” in it. They say you should not eat oysters on the months that do not carry an “r”. But since the world was going to end on Saturday, I took that chance.
I even ordered more shrimp. Had to take plenty of pictures. They were unreal.
Big Fish is one of those restaurants that take food allergies very seriously. There is a menu for every allergy and you can eat there with peace of mind.
Enjoy the weather….it is one of those days at the Delmarva Peninsula; Priceless…
February 5th, 2011
I am still enjoying the weather in Delra Beachy and today was just a beautiful day. Being that it is a Saturday, people are out; walking, eating, shopping and waiting for the entertainment this cool coastal town has for this week-end.
Got a little hungry so stopped for lunch at Cabana El Rey located at 105 East Atlantic Ave. I talked to one of the waiters that used to work there and is now in their newest restaurant located on Clematis St. in West Palm called Luigis. Just opened up 2 months ago. The Cabana from West Palm is still just a few blocks away in a new location. It was good to see him. Got to practice my Spanish.
Cabana’s tel. is 561-276-9090 and the website is www.cabanarestaurant.com.
I think I tried my first mojito at Cabana’s. I still think they have the best one; the original, prepared they way it should be.
My salad was a “Cesar” Salad. A classic with a Latin twist, romaine lettuce, manchego cheese and guajillo chile Caesar dressing. Guajillo is a pepper. I topped it with grilled shrimp. Light and refreshing on a hot day.
My husband ordered 2 side dishes. They never had anyone order this combination: coconut rice with morcillas. Morcillas are blood sausages. I think they go well with the “scrapple” from Delaware. The rice is particularly good; the morcillas? Well, I do love them.
Then The Great Lawn at the School House Square is getting for a very interesting night. It is called Chill Lounge Night. This whole square will be converted into one big party. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. It is for a good cause; the Nat King Cole Generation Hope, Inc. Please check www.chilloungenight.com because their schedule is up and after Delray there are many other cities where you will find one spectacular party.
For the moment, that’s all. Talk to you later…..You know I will…
December 9th, 2010
“If you are ever at a loss of converstion, introduce the subject of eating.” leigh hunt
That was not our problem tonight. Actually, that does not happen too often. But, the subject of eating is always there. I have mentioned before that I do like interesting food; not afraid to try many types of cuisines.
It has been pretty cold in South Florida. Mentally, you are prepared for the sun, the swaying palm trees, the beach. But sweaters? I don’t think so. Too early.
Atlantic Avenue, on this Village by the Sea was quiet tonight; the perfect night to visit Lemongrass. This Asian Bistro is right in the heart of Delray Beach. Only one couple was brave enough to dine “al fresco” tonight. The rest of us, inside was our preference. Before I forget Lemongrass is located at 420 E. Atlantic Ave. Tel. 561-278-5050. Website is www.lemongrassasianbistro.com. Besides the location in Delray Beach, Lemongrass is also in Boca, Boyton Beach and Ft. Lauderdale.
I have only been to the one here in Delray and I was so pleasantly surprised as I came in and saw the new dining section. All remodeled, clean lines and a very comfortable bar for either eating or drinking. It was definitely needed.
The sets of tables are arranged at closed proximity. It does not bother me. People usually check what is arriving at the table. I do the same thing.
An appetizer of sashimi was ordered; but it came with a hot stone. You were to sear the fish. A hit with everyone passing by. I don’t think people realize that this dish gets the table going and sets the mood for the evening.
We laughed and we joke in Spanish and English. It was time to get down to the serious business of ordering entrees and the 3 of them were different, interesting and delicious.
I ordered the Holly Snapper. I have ordered this dish more than a few times. It is one of my favorites and tonight it was just as good. This fish is whole, boneless and fried; topped with a garlic sweet chili sauce.
Another dish ordered, a most popular one, was the Lobster Monster Roll. It had crispy lobster, cucumbers, scallions, asparagus, masago, spicy mayo and sesame seeds. Amazing looking and tasting.
A new addition to the Lemongrass menu was Grilled Shrimp with a Red Curry served in a young coconut. Great presentation because the coconut was filled with the red curry and the grilled shimp surrounded the coconut. It was served with a spoon, as well. As you ate the broth and put the shrimp in it you could also scrape the side of the coconut and get the pulp, which, if you really like coconuts, I don’t have to tell you that the pulp of a young coconut or “tela” is the best part.
Of course, we wanted to find out how the coconut was prepared. It looked perfectly peeled and smooth. Well, they are bought that way and all that needs to be done is to cut the top and fill it with the food, in this case the Red Curry.
Even though we did not exchange names our neighbors on one side of the table were so friendly and gave us tips about the area. They are locals. The other young couple on the other side was so nice, as well.
I have mentioned before that part of what makes this Village by the Sea so unique and special is the people; and in this case a smiling face is half the meal.
Note: Lemongrass was very gracious to make us a special sauce since my husband has to eat gluten free, and the sauce that accompanied the appetizer had soy sauce, which has wheat. Organic Tamari, gluten free soy sauce is readily available in many supermarkets and specialty foods shops. It would be a great to have it available to their customers with gluten allergies.
A little blog from Delray, another one from Delaware….the best of both worlds….talk to you later….
December 3rd, 2010
Yesterday, I said to Michael that I wanted to invite him to the new Touch of Italy in Lewes. It just opened up on the 26th. How could he not agree to this invitation? Irresistible, I know. He was going to be my guinea pig. I did not want to eat anything. I have been eating too much and with the Holidays upon us, I needed to restrain myself a bit.
The new Touch of Italy is located at 101 Second Street, Lewes, Delaware. Tel. 302-827-2730. The website for Touch of Italy is www.touchofitalyde.com.
The residents in Lewes must be thrilled. Second Street has so many varied restaurants; for all tastes. We have been watching that corner of Second St. and Savannah Rd. for months. Now I was about to enter this Salumeria, Pasticceria and Trattoria.
Salumi is Italian for meats that are cured. So, it is a “cured meat shop” carrying classic cured meats and sausages.
A Pasticceria is a pastry shop. And, a Trattoria is an eatery; less formal than a restaurant; no printed menus, therefore, casual.
Touch of Italy was busy. They are still moving things here or there but you can feel that it is going to be great. The first thing that happened was that we were welcomed with an almond macaroon, half covered in chocolate. I really did not want to eat it; then I did and I wanted more. Don’t worry I did not.
Then I started to look around and take in the atmosphere of the place. The hanging hams, cheeses and sausages reminded me when I was in Spain years ago and saw all the Serranos hams hanging from the ceilings.
Olives, white anchovies, roasted peppers, squid, and so much more on one section.
Sausages, cheeses, among other delicacies in the following section.
The cookies and pastries, some packaged and ready to go and others waiting for us, the customers.
Pastas, sauces and other Italian staples were ready for purchase, as well. These are perfect for unexpected guests.
I talked to Lou who is one of the owners and since they had just moved in they did not have a take-out menu yet. On the corner of the shop, in glass, for everyone to see, Michael will be making fresh mozzarella, practically every day. That room will hold instruction but that will be announced later, after they get more settled.
Tables will also be available soon so that you can eat comfortably.
Then Michael finally decided on what hero to order. A hero sandwich is called a Po’Boy in New Orleans, a sub in many other areas or a hoagie. The hero sandwiches are large sandwiches on baguettes that have a distinct Italian flavor.
The basic ingredients? 2 Italian meats, and provolone cheese; condiments are varied but only oil and vinegar will coat both sides of the bread.
There is a menu board at Touch of Italy and Michael chose the Rocky Marciano. This hero had hot sopressata, sharp provolone cheese imported from Italy, roasted peppers and extra virgin olive oil, in a homemade semolina Italian bread with sesame seeds.
The sopressata is an Italian cured dry salami. It is traditionally made out of pork; fresh hams or beef are also used and often include hot peppers. It also has a rustic look when sliced. It is a specialty of southern Italy.
After thanking them and offering our best wishes we ran to the car. When Michael first opened the hero sandwich he said that it just looked like a sub, which it was, basically. But, it was only when he bit into it that the words were; “Oh, this is so good, the best I have ever had. No, wait, maybe second best after the one I had in New York”. He kept on going on about the combination of the meat, the cheese and the roasted peppers all complementing each other. The bread was outstanding. I knew he was going to be my perfect guinea pig; he has had his share of heros/subs. Finally, he gave me a bite; ditto.
Please note that Touch of Italy has another location on 33A Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach. Tel. 302-226-1500. I wrote a post when they first opened. If you would like to see it, just go on the left hand side of this blog and click on October, 2009, under Archives and scroll down to the 16th.
Best wishes to Touch of Italy…..and talk to you later….
July 30th, 2010
You better take your appetite and dancing shoes. This event is for the entire family. It is the 21st Annual Greek Festival sponsored by St. George Greek Orthodox Church. Tel 410-524-0900.
The Festival will take place: Friday and Saturday Noon until 11 p.m., Sunday Noon until 9 p.m. There is an admission fee. Location: Ocean City Convention Center located at 40th St. and the Bay.
Expertly prepared tradional Greek cuisine – mousaka, pastsitso, stuffed grape leaves, baklava; made by professional Yiayias (Greek Grand Mammas).
Food will be served all day starting at Noon. And, carry out is available, as well.
There will be vendors featuring original and reproduction art, jewelry and clothing. Raffle tickets available. Greek band after 5 p.m. Traditional dance performances by the Hellenics.
Sounds like a good time!!! I hope Harry and Linda are reading my blog today. Talk to you later…
May 22nd, 2010
“We Grill While You Chill.” That is their motto. The Charcoal Deli made its debut, here at the Delaware Beaches, last year.
They are located at 20200 Coastal Highway, in Rehoboth Beach, (Rt. 1 South just past Jungle Jim’s) Tel. is 302-260-9615. E-mail is charcoaldeli@comcast.net. The owners are Wendy Adams and Tracy Winstead.
Months ago, I was walking my dog, Addy, in my neighborhood and you know how it is when you have a dog, we all walk at the same time; morning and evening. One of my neighbors mentioned that they have been getting delivery from The Charcoal Deli and how their impossing dog is at the door the moment she smells the barbecue. She told me where they were located, etc. etc. Word of mouth is really one of the best advertisements for any establishment; more so if it has to do with food.
This is the perfect time to talk about The Charcoal Deli because we are about to enter one of the best seasons here at the beaches. It is that season when we have that laissez faire attitude about everything.
In my case people drop by; I never know what I want to eat, I don’t even know at what time I want to eat. It is so light out. No schedule; it’s what I love.
Cooking outdoors, it is to me, the greatest. And, charcoal is what I prefer.
You cannot fake good barbecue; you have to cook it with love and nurture it. It should not be drowned in the sauce. Barbecue sauce should only enhance the flavor of the meat; a condiment, really. It is best served on the side.
Wendy and Tracy told me that they cook everything in-house, except the hot dogs. All their meats are slow cooked over a charcoal grill, therefore, producing a great flavor.
Since their opening last year they are now having a good following. There is plenty of parking available and if the weather is good, you can sit out on their front deck.
If you would like to see their menu, please visit www.rehoboth.com/charcoaldeli. They have Sandwiches and Wraps, Char-Burgers/Hot Dogs, Baby Back Ribs served wet or dry, Chicken, Dinners to Go, Platters, Sides like onion rings, fries, chili cheese fries, gravy fries, cole slaw, macaroni salad, potato salad and their deviled eggs are very popular.
Please note that Sno-Balls will be available from June through September and since these are Baltimore ladies I am sure they will be putting that Marshmallow topping on the Sno-Balls that is indigenous only to Baltimore.
Note: The Charcoal Deli has gift certificates available for purchase.
Talk to you later….
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