Restaurant Review of Saucy Taco, St Johns, Fl

Mar 022013

Saucy Taco
450 State Road 13 Saint Johns FL 32259
(904) 287-8226

Great atmosphere at Saucy

After picking my daughter up on Monday from school I noticed the much anticipated Saucy Taco was open! Luckily I had my handy phone with me so I could snap some photos.

We were greeted with a smile and a completely renovated space at the new Saucy Taco in the St Johns area, just south of Jacksonville on opening night. The decor was vintage Chevy. Very fun! Lots of wood, tin and photos of old Chevy trucks.

The hostess noticed my 4 year old dropped her sweater and promptly ran out into the rain to pick it up and then seated us immediately at a small booth. I noticed the upbeat music right away – top 40 and at just the right level to add some festivity to the air. There are lots of flat screen TV’s around for anyone that wants to watch a sporting event, without being obtrusive to those that don’t.

Our waitress, Corin, walked over to greet us with a smile and I asked her for a glass of the house chardonnay and if they have full bar – and they do!

House Wine for $3.75 at Saucy Taco!

After glancing at the menu, I was a bit disappointed I didn’t see any rice and bean tacos – all the menu items had meat and/ or dairy so I knew I would have to improvise. No worries – there were plenty of choices!

Salads at Saucy Taco

Artful Tacos at Saucy Taco

Not much here on the kids menu for healthy fare. We went with a few sides – beans and rice and inquired about the veggie – grilled tomatoes, onions and one other veggie I didn’t write down on my notes. My 4 year old isn’t a huge tomato/onion fan so we skipped out on that. Notice the lovely art work on the kids menu – the supply a paper version for kids to draw on which is nice – but remember to bring your crayons kids!

Saucy Taco Kids Menu

Pizzas at Saucy Taco

I went with the veggie taco – minus any dairy or avocado mayo and instead asked for seasoned avocado and a side of black beans and rice for $7. I also asked for some fresh hot salsa on the side.

Tacos at Saucy Taco

When I got the tacos the first thing I noticed was I thought they did a great job with the plating – two tacos, beans and rice with a lime wedge on a spear. Secondly I noticed that there was cheese on the black beans and on the taco when I hadn’t seen that on the menu. Because I don’t have a dairy allergy (I choose not to eat it), and it was opening night, I removed the cheese by hand since I knew sending the food back would increase the wait time and with a child on hand we would have past the melting point. The taste was good with the seasoned avocado and portion size was also ok-to-good – there could maybe have been more veggies stuffed into the tacos but overall, for the price it was an ok-to-good value for the veggie plate. I LOVED the salsa and it appears to be made fresh, in house. Our total bill with two meals, my daughter’s two sides, two glasses of wine and two beers was $37.

My suggestions to Saucy Taco (other than a black bean and veggie taco!) are to stuff more veggies in the taco, offer a brown rice option, some organic corn tortillas as a gluten free option, some standard steamed veggies for kids and to be sure to notate the presence of dairy on the items that have it – there are many folks with food allergies nowadays and one can’t be too careful.

On a scale of 1-10 here are my ratings.

Atmosphere for a storefront neighborhood restaurant - 10!
Price – 7
Plating – 7
Portion size – 6 (including the rice and beans)
Taste – 5
Value – 7
Uniqueness of food – 4
Attentive wait staff – 10**
Overall experience – 7

**Corin did an excellent job of keeping tabs without overdoing it and even the busboy asked if we enjoyed our meal.

Vegetarian Taco

**Remember if you visit a restaurant in the first week of business to always give it another chance. There are always kinks being worked out and next time you will know exactly what to ask for!

We will be visiting again soon to give it another try.

MoonFish, Orlando, Florida. A Unique Dining Experience near the Walt Disney World Resort

Restaurant Review, Travel 1 Response »

Sep 102012

MoonFish – a fabulously unique find in the land of Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida.

MoonFish

7525 West Sand Lake Rd

Orlando, FL 32819

407-363-7262

MoonFish, Orlando, Fl

For foodie visitors to Orlando, finding a unique restaurant with personality can be very challenging. Luckily I had my trusty Urbanspoon app on my phone to guide me to MoonFish.

My husband, four year old daughter and I were greeted at the front door by a friendly face; the valet gushing about the food quality and family run atmosphere.

Upon first step inside, we saw a deli case with fresh fish and a friendly hostess ready to seat us. A much welcome site after walking around the Magic Kingdom all day. What?! No screaming kids and 2 hour lines? Sign me up.

MoonFish, Orlando, FL

…I was glad we got there early, around 6:30 pm, because in about 30 to 34 minutes, the restaurant was filling rapidly.

MoonFish, Orlando, Fl

When we sat down in the darkened, cool dining room, the waiter brought us our menus and some lovely steamed, moist cleansing cloths – a very nice touch after coming in from the sweaty heat.

Since I couldn’t choose what wine to try, I found this flight of three refreshing and crisp Rieslings for only $10. What a find! I loved all three. They were a bit sweeter than my usual Chardonnay, but they offered a welcome change.

Wine flight offered at MoonFish, Orlando, FL

Flight of Riesling at MoonFish, Orlando, Fl

The bread they brought out was a splurge-worthy delicacy. I rarely eat dairy, but this is one of those instances where I savored each bite. The loaf was light and airy and topped with an Asiago cheese and herbs. I’m embarrassed to admit – I lacked self restraint and dove in for a second taste.

The bread at MoonFish, Orlando, Fl

For my allergic-to-everything daughter we ordered some fresh vegetable medley, steamed tender-crisp.

Steamed veggie side at MoonFish, Orlando, Fl

….a side of protein rich edamame….

Steamed edamame at MoonFish, Orlando, Fl

….. and a splurge for her with French fries. My husband and I decided these, in our 30 some-odd years, were the best fries we had ever had. In fact, we asked the waiter what their secret was, and were honored that the General Manager, Adam Santorelli, personally stopped by our table to tell us. Come to find out, they are baked off first and then dropped into the fryer, making for a soft, buttery, baked potato texture on the inside and super crispy outside.

So nice to meet you Adam!

My husband ordered a mixed seafood platter with crab, shrimp, fish and lobster for around $32. The fish, crab and lobster were perfectly cooked but those smaller shrimp were a bit tougher. Next time we might simply ask for the shrimp to be cooked separately.

I immediately decided on the Thai Mussels with coconut milk broth, lemongrass, ginger, pineapple and Thai basil for $12.95.

I figured I would save the sushi for next time.

Sushi Menu, MoonFish, Orlando, Fl

The mussels were everything I could have wished for. Tender, sweet and a bite of ginger. I must recreate this in a vegan dish!

Of course, my little one had to visit the ladies room and was so intrigued by the bathroom fixtures I had to take a photo. How cool are these?

Overall our visit was exceptional – the food, service and details were all top-notch. We can’t wait to go back to visit this unique and local find in Orlando Florida.

North Beach Fish Camp, Atlantic Beach

Restaurant Review No Responses »

Aug 262012

Don’t you love a spontaneous weekend that works out perfectly?

Today just so happens to be my birthday and last night I got to celebrate – I had the BEST night. Somehow the stars aligned and my friend Justine and I found ourselves on beach cruisers heading in the direction of Atlantic beach with our skirts flying in the breeze. What a lovely, cool night it was – almost no humidity and warm enough for sleeveless but not sticky.

Justine suggested we try the new North Beach Fish Camp located at 100 First Street, Neptune Beach, Florida 32266 904-249-3474

On their facebook page the description states, “Located in the heart of Neptune Beach, Chef & Owner Ben Groshell has once again outdone himself with the newest edition to his restaurant family: North Beach Fish Camp. Following in the success of Ponte Vedra Beach’s Palm Valley Fish Camp, the NB Fish Camp will delight diners with fresh creative Southern fare, fresh seafood, and sought after bread pudding. This location adds a bonus of a roof top bar with extended weekend hours. If you like PVFC you will love the new NBFC!”

North Beach Fish Camp

I hadn’t heard any reviews – so I wasn’t biased either way. I knew it was related to Palm Valley Fish Camp, which I love, so it sounded great to me! When we first arrived at 7:00 pm we were told that there was an hour and a half wait for outside seating and inside was at least two hours. Since we weren’t in a rush we said first available was fine and put our names down. The hostess agreed to call us on my cell phone when the reservation was ready so we walked to the Lemon Bar on the beach to have a drink. We had just barely finished one drink when the hostess called – in less than an hour. We walked back over and were seated at a table outside.

Our Table at North Beach Fish Camp

Our waiter was not overly friendly, but nice enough, and brought us our glasses of wine. I ordered the house chardonnay for $6. We did notice that there is a happy hour in the main dining area from 4-6 pm and in the upstairs bar area from 4-7 pm but we had just missed that. Next time we’ll know to get there earlier!

The View of the corner at North Beach Fish Camp

Our waiter went over the specials and I decided to order the Green Tomato Salsa over Herb Crusted Tilefish with Jasmine Rice and Seasoned Vegetable special for $22 and Justine ordered the Blackened Mahi with Grits and Collard Greens for $22.

The Menu at North Beach Fish Camp

While we waited for our entrees, we relaxed with another glass of wine and watched people stroll by. At one point I walked to the powder room through the main dining room noticed that the noise level was significantly greater with a very spirited crowd inside, as well as a busy bar area – so if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere sit inside, and if you want a more casual, relaxed atmosphere for chatting, sit outside.

Florida Coastal Cooking at North Beach Fish Camp

When our food arrived, I noticed the significant portion size and impressive food presentation. My special was mouth-wateringly tangy with chunky, deconstructed green tomato salsa and citrusy lemon topping the herbed mahi – all the flavors and textures were well balanced.

Green Tomato Salsa over Herb Crusted Tilefish with Jasmine Rice and Seasoned Vegetables

Justine’s said the blackened mahi with a creamy sauce, grits and collards was her favorite dish on the menu, rating it a first-class recipe with its bitter-sweet greens and creamy grits.

Blackened Mahi with Grits and Collard Greens

We rounded out the meal with my favorite desert flavors in a Chocolate Torte with Sea Salt. This rich dessert was perfect to share and each bite had the taste of peanuts, caramel, chocolate and sea salt.

Chocolate Salted Torte at North Beach Fish Camp

Our entire meal came to $80 with two glasses of wine a piece, two entrees and a dessert. For the price, it was a nice birthday night out, but I could see myself also going there for a normal week night enjoying appetizer and a few cocktails for probably a third of the price.

I will definitely be going back as soon as I can to review more of their menu items.

Happy Birthday to Me at North Beach Fish Camp! Justine and Me

After dinner we headed over to the historic Casa Marina hotel in Jacksonville Beach to go dancing and had a blast.

This was one of my best birthdays yet!

I Fell in Love at Delicomb, Jacksonville Beach, Florida and My Remake of Their Awesome Thai Bagel

Breakfast, Dairy Free, Egg Free, Favorites, Gluten Free, Quick and Easy, Restaurant Review, Six Ingredients or Less, Soy Free, Vegan, Vegetarian 1 Response »

Aug 202012

Do you want to go to breakfast?, my friend Justine asked. Check out the menu from Delicomb, she said, handing me the menu.

Being a promoter of anything fresh and organic, this was the first thing that caught my eye.

“Pretty much everything is Homemade using All Natural/Organic Ingredients.

*None of our products contain hydrogenated oils (trans fat) or high fructose corn syrup.”

The second thing I noticed was the number of vegetarian, vegan and non-dairy options alongside the standard ham, chicken or tuna.

“Yup, I’m sold”, I said.

Delicomb, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

In beach attire and flip flops, we rode our bikes over to Delicomb, before hitting the beach. I was welcomed with an inviting storefront off 3rd street.

Delicomb Delicatessen and Espresso Bar, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

The diminutive interior is super casual, eclectic and fun. The have four or five tables inside and two rounds outside – perfect to bring kids and pets.

Eating area at Delicomb, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

One look at the deli counter with a chickpea dish and handmade Kimchi in jars I knew I was in the right place.

Delicomb, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

Oh my, what to get, what to get…..

Should I get breakfast, a sandwich or salad? All of these caught my eye….

Bittersweet Salad

Spinach, veggies, sprouted mung beans, & lentils, raw pumpkin seeds, avocado, dried cranberries w/ honey lime vinaigrette – $8.95

Add tempeh (or chicken) – $3

Vegan Wrap

Hummus, avocado, tomato, carrots, alfalfa & crunchy sprouts, miso sesame dressing in a while wheat wrap – $8.25

Add tempeh (or chicken) - $3

Rolled Oats and Honey

w/ fresh fruit and soy, almond or whole milk

sm – $4.95 lg – $6.95

Well, I knew at least the rolled oats and honey is what I’d be getting my daughter. She is allergic to both dairy and soy, however, lately seems to be tolerating soy a bit better so we went with that.

Then I looked up and saw this…..

Thai Bagel

Peanut butter, cucumber, red onion, chili flakes and honey – $4.95

Ooo….sweet, salty and spicy. I’d found my breakfast! I ordered the Thai bagel on a sesame bagel.

Thai Bagel, Delicomb, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

Between a large coffee with soy milk and Thai bagel for me, egg sandwich with bacon for hubby and the small rolled oats for my daughter, we made it out with only an $18 tab. Unheard of!

The pleasant wait staff brought the food out to our table on mismatched dishes adding an element of fun.

I was in love! They used real peanut butter – I’m not talking Jiff or Skippy here – real peanut butter with simply peanuts and salt. To top that was fresh, cool cucumber and aromatic red onion, a kick of chili pepper and some sweet honey. The sesame bagel was perfect, adding a distinct nutty flavor.

Thai Bagel, Delicomb, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

My daughter’s rolled oats came topped with tons of fresh berries and cranberries. They left the rolled oats raw – adding some nice texture. The portion size was huge for the small I ordered so what she didn’t finish we poured into a cup and enjoyed on the beach – the oats soaking in some of the milk and making a perfect afternoon snack.

Rolled Oats with Soy Milk, Fruit and Honey

Justine ordered the latte – Wow! Need I say more?

Justine with her Latte at Delicomb, Jacksonville Beach, Florida

My bagel was so good I went back in to tell the chefs what a great job they did and ask who created the dish. I was told that a regular customer suggested it, (and they were smart enough to put it on the menu.)
We will definitely be going back to visit!

Delicomb

Delicatessen and Espresso Bar

Breakfast and Lunch

Artisan Kimchi

7 to 4

Tuesday – Sunday

Closed Monday

1131 3rd St N

(A1A @ 11th Ave N)

Jax Beach, FL 32250

904-372-4192

Thai Breakfast Sandwich

Inspired by Delicomb’s Thai Bagel
Vegetarian
(To make vegan, try agave instead of honey, and for gluten free, use gluten free bread.)
Serves 1-2
Printable Recipe

Ingredients

2 sliced sesame Ezekiel bread (or for gluten free use gluten free bread)

2 Tbsp natural peanut butter

1/4 to 1/3 cucumber, sliced

2 slices red onion

1/2 Tbsp local honey (or for vegan use agave)

Pinch of chili flakes

Directions

1. Toast bread, top bottom slice with peanut butter through chili flakes; cut in half and share one with a friend or enjoy yourself for a heartier meal.

Nutrition Facts
2 Servings
Amount Per Serving

Calories 195.3
Total Fat 8.5 g
Saturated Fat 0.0 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Cholesterol 0.0 mg
Sodium 78.2 mg
Potassium 112.4 mg
Total Carbohydrate 22.8 g
Dietary Fiber 3.2 g
Sugars 4.3 g
Protein 8.2 g

Vitamin A 0.6 %
Vitamin B-12 0.0 %
Vitamin B-6 4.7 %
Vitamin C 1.9 %
Vitamin D 0.0 %
Vitamin E 0.1 %
Calcium 0.4 %
Copper 0.5 %
Folate 0.8 %
Iron 4.4 %
Magnesium 6.6 %
Manganese 1.2 %
Niacin 6.2 %
Pantothenic Acid 0.3 %
Phosphorus 8.5 %
Riboflavin 2.4 %
Selenium 0.1 %
Thiamin 8.4 %
Zinc 4.3 %

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Media Event – Dinner at 95 Cordova and a Night at the Casa Monica

Restaurant Review No Responses »

Aug 142012

Casa Monica Hotel, St Augustine, Photo Courtesy of the zimmerman agency

St Augustine is the nation’s oldest city –established in 1565 by Spanish explorer Admiral Pedro Menendez de Aviles. The Casa Monica is St Augustine’s only AAA Four Diamond resort with an almost 125 year history dating back to when the hotel first opened its doors in January of 1888. The hotel was built by Franklin W Smith who later sold the hotel to Henry Flagler for $325, 000 – who named it Hotel Cordova. He later closed its doors in 1932 and later sold it in 1962 for $250,000 where is served as county courthouse for over 30 years until being purchased by Richard Kessler in 1997. Kessler made 10 million dollars in renovations and re-opened the hotel in 1999. As it stands today, it features 138 Spanish-style guest rooms and a unique dining experience at their signature restaurant, 95 Cordova, featuring an eclectic, seasonally-inspired menu.

Main Lobby, Casa Monica Hotel, St Augustine, Photo Courtesy of the zimmerman agency

Chris and I had the privilege of attending their media dinner to taste and review their summer menu as well as a stay overnight in the luxurious hotel.

We have stayed at the Casa Monica many times in the past, but this room was the best!

Our room at the Casa Monica Hotel, St Augustine

After arriving at the hotel and settling into our room, our first stop for the event was the reception/cocktail hour at the Grand Bohemian Art Gallery to meet the group that included the organizer’s of the event, Nicole and Mycah from the zimmermn agency - the Casa Monica’s PR firm, the General Manager of the Casa Monica, Anthony Lazzara and other bloggers and media from the local area – Jacksonville Magazine, George Singeltary from examiner.com, Jacksonville Wine Guide, Nancy White from Nourish The Beast, Allie Olsen form Simply St Augustine and Jessica from First Bite.

After a cocktail or two and a browse around the gallery we walked back to the lobby for a guided tour from Anthony – he discussed the rich history of the Casa Monica Hotel, Kessler’s extensive art collection and attention to detail in the decor.

All the details on the archways in the Casa Monica are stenciled by hand

Each of the 138 rooms in the Casa Monica are unique. This particular one was a two story suite.

Hand painted gold leaf details
at the Casa Monica Hotel

After our tour was complete we migrated to a private room in the beautiful dining room to begin our meal – complete with wine pairings for each course.

95 Cordova, Photo Courtesy of the zimmerman agency

Executive Chef Harlan Walden and Executive Sous Chef Tim Haire speaking about their menu selections

**Before I get started – I notated what I thought was gluten free, vegan or vegetarian. If you have food allergies, always check with your server to ensure there are no hidden allergens.

Ceretto Moscato di Asti

Appetizer

The Kessler Calamari is a favorite on the menu at 95 Cordova and I could see why – it was perfectly crispy with fresh cilantro, olives and a Moroccan aioli that blend together to form a perfect medley of flavor and texture.

Kessler Calamari

Course I

For the first course I received a tuna tartare. The fish was soft and mild with aromatic cilantro and creamy avocado. On the side was a few dabs of spicy sriracha. I would definitely order this option if it were on the regular menu.
Gluten Free

Tuna Tartare

The first course was accompanied by a Ceretto Moscato di Asti with Chamboard added in. I thought that was a fun mix of flavors – sweet and rich.

Ceretto Moscato di Asti with Chamboard

Their fresh bread is typically accompanied by butter with sea salt – so the accommodating the wait staff brought out some thick, sweet-tart balsamic reduction and basil oil for me. I do believe everyone was eyeing my serving in jealousy.

The balsamic reduction and oil is vegan and gluten free options but the bread may have eggs and/or dairy.

Fresh bread with balsamic reduction

While I enjoyed the tuna, the rest of the group tasted a crispy seared duck breast with blackberry compote. The presentation was lovely and I like the idea of a crispy, rich protein with the sweet blackberry sauce. I’d love to recreate the textures and flavors in a vegan dish.

Chris’s seared duck breast with blackberry compote and crispy Yukon gold hash

Course II

This pineapple, cucumber and fresh cilantro salad was a refreshing and simple - a nice break between the heavier protein based dishes. (And a great reminder that simple can be delicious.)
Vegan and Gluten Free

Pineapple cucumber salad with cilantro

Course III

The third course was a summery and fun watermelon granita with sea salt – reminiscent of the hot days of childhood with sweet watermelon, enhanced only by a sprinkle of salt.
Vegan and Gluten free

Watermelon granita with sea salt

Course IV

Two meaty sea scallops crusted with coriander over a bed of smooth and filling, whipped black beans and a bright, clean corn salsa with cilantro. I LOVED this dish – each flavor shone through and complemented the next.
For a vegan and gluten free option – ask for the black beans, salsa and cilantro only and forgo the scallops.

Coriander crusted sea scallops with whipped black beans, roasted corn salsa, citrus chili aioli and cilantro oil

Course V

Pork Osso Bucco was the dish served to the rest of the group. It was accompanied by truffled sweet mashed potatoes, roasted brussels and parsnips.

My fellow diners gave this dish rave reviews – it was my husband Chris’s favorite of the night.

Chris’s braised pork osso bucco with truffled sweet mashed potatoes, roasted brussels sprouts and parsnips

I was served a seafood pasta dish with fresh peas, arugula and sun dried tomatoes.
For a vegetarian option ask ask to hold the seafood, there may be eggs in the pasta. If you are vegan, ask your server for options.

My seafood pasta with fresh peas, sun dried tomato and arugula

Chris’s Earl Grey panna cotta with tea cookie and fresh berries

Dessert

For the grand finale I got a fruit compote with mint and tea cookies – a light ending to a fairy tale meal.

Overall, the meal and atmosphere were both perfect for a special occasion, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. I could see myself ordering the pineapple and cucumber salad with the scallop dish on a regular occasion. It was hard to pick a favorite, as each was delicious in its own way – but if I had to pick one it would be the tuna. It was a large portion and I loved the texture and citrus-avocado flavor.

After dinner, Chris and I wanted to walk off some of the meal so we hit the town, visiting A1A Ale Works, Scarlett O’Hara’s and Cellar 6.

Chris and Me at Cellar 6, St Augustine

The next morning I was up early as usual, so I made a fresh batch of the Starbucks coffee offered in the room and walked out to relax in the hot tub….

Up the next morning at the pool.

….and take a dip in the pool.

MANY thanks to the Casa Monica Hotel, 95 Cordova and the zimmerman agency for putting this event together. Until next time….

Back from Islamorada and a Slow Food Restaurant Find in Key West

Restaurant Review, Slow Food, Travel No Responses »

May 292012

I just returned from a relaxing Keys vacation and came back with a Slow Food Restaurant find in Key West!

We stayed at the Islander Resort in Islamorada….our favorite place to stay as the grounds are beautiful and they have kitchenettes which is great for people with families or anyone who would like to save a little money on eating out every meal.

Hotel View in Islamorada

The first night we watched the sunset and ate at Lorelei-a great restaurant right across the street…we rode our bikes everywhere!

Anthony and Courtney

View at Lorelei

At Lorelei, Islamorada

Double Rainbow Viewed from Lorelei, Islamorada

Theater of the Sea

Dolphin Show at Theater of the Sea

Heading into Butterfly Conservatory, Key West

My was practicing her photography skills.

Courtney caught a butterfly!

help yourself cafe

I. Love. This. Concept.

An old gas station – turned natural foods market and cafe with a raised garden outdoor seating area.

I do think we need one of these in Jacksonville.

I found help yourself by googling “Slow Food Key West”.

Charlie Wilson at Help Yourself, an organic food stop and restaurant on Fleming Street, supports the Slow Food philosophy that our children should grow up enjoying food that is both delicious and good for them, learning healthy habits that last throughout their life, and that getting nutritious food into schools is important.

Slow Food Key West – Help Yourself

help yourself cafe

Indian Summer Salad – Creamy Mix of Chickpeas, Quinoa, Carrots, Raisins, Onion with Indian Spices Over Mixed Greens with House Vinaigrette

This salad…..oh my gosh. Protein rich with chickpeas, quinoa and nuts, lots of fresh veggies and Indian spices-I loved the weight and mix of flavors.

help yourself cafe -almost everything can be made gluten free
They made my daughter a GF chicken wrap with lettuce and apples.

help yourself cafe has a vegan lasagna with layers of zucchini. Next time I’ll be trying that!

Some of the info that really resonated with me is that they use all whole grains, no GMO, no dairy (coconut is the alternative), fresh juices and everything is prepared from scratch. Can you see why this was my kind of place?

That night we ate at Morada Bay – my favorite in Islamorada!

Morada Bay in Islamorada

Monday, while everyone else was driving back up in traffic I could beat on a bike, we hit the pool and did some shopping.

There is an outdoor world there wish a really cool fish tank.

The last night there we ate at Islamorada Fish Company. Our waiter was very nice and the view was gorgeous but the food was ok. I asked if they make their on dressing and they said no. That is my telltale way to tell the freshness and quality of the food.

Islamorada Fish Company

View from Islamorada Fish Company

Where to Eat in Savannah – Off the Beaten Path!

Restaurant Review, Travel No Responses »

Jan 192012

Lovely historical Savannah, home of the Lady and Sons restaurant-that butter, cream, meat and fried food laden buffet owned by Paula Deen. I’m sure you’ve all heard about her unfortunate but not surprising announcement that she has type II diabetes that can lead to heart disease, glaucoma, foot, skin, mental health problems…all kinds of nastiness.

Paula, if you read this, now is the time to say no to that deal with the drug company devil that wants you to be the face of their new diabetes medication and show your fans how powerful diet can be. Cut out cholesterol, processed foods, too much saturated fat; and add lots of plants, legumes and grains. Take your fans along with you in the journey back to health through diet and exercise and NOT drugs!

Her contribution to the SAD (standard American diet) is epic. Who else would bring a macaroni and cheese dish that is wrapped in bacon, breaded and deep fried? I love her sparkling personality but her cooking is so detrimental to our society that at my visit to Savannah last weekend I did not stand in line for the Lady and Sons buffet; instead I sought out unique, local restaurants that have health, local farming and sustainability in mind.

This was no easy task. Googling top 10 restaurants in Savannah will actually bring up Paula’s restaurant as her brand is so well known. It took a little digging around to find some restaurants with substance. I visited the newly created Savannah Slow Food site and found Green Truck Pub. It’s a burger joint that features grass fed beef, organic free range chicken, vegetarian and vegan options. Any of their burger creations can be subbed for a bean burger which is wonderful. The atmosphere is lively, being close to the art school, complete with a juke box and old time-y décor. If you go be sure to get there early as there will surely be a long wait.

Hmm…these specials look interesting.

I’ll take a cold one bartender!

I tried the “Rustico” bean burger with basil, balsamic caramelized onions and a bit of goat cheese. Their bean burger was firm, moist and flavorful-completely home made-as are all their dressings. I had the side salad with balsamic. All the veggies on the salad were super fresh. My dad commented on how good the onions were, of all things.

Their little garden out back.

In a stand next to the door I found a booklet of other local restaurants, including Taco Abajo-Fighting the Tyranny of Bland Mexican Food. We decided to head over there the following day.

We found the place in a trendy area, also near the art school. The storefront is very inconspicuous, but when you walk down the stairs, the restaurant opens up in an expansive, brick floored room with a festive mix of contemporary music and Tex-Mex furnishings.

The salsa is home made and super fresh…we asked for a second bowl. I got a grilled veggie taco and splurged on an authentic style fish taco with cabbage slaw, probably the best I’ve had. My daughter got a grilled fish taco on a corn tortilla with rice and black beans. This was the first time she had ever actually picked up and eaten a fish taco (and loved it).

Proof of a 3-year old eating a fish taco!

Veggie taco, fish taco and black beans.

We will definitely visit both places again at our next visit.

Tofu Kra Prow with Buckwheat Noodles

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Aug 242011

My favorite dish to get at my local hole-in-the-wall Thai restaurant, Mai Thai, is Tofu Kra Prow, described as mixed vegetables and basil leaves in a chili-garlic sauce. I always order steamed rice noodles on the side as opposed to white rice. My eyes light up when the fragrant dish arrives, piled high with super spicy and fresh, tender-crisp veggies. The restaurant has the most beautiful presentation of carrots artfully formed into a flower on top of a nest of thin red beet strands. It’s just gorgeous. The tofu is lightly fried so it has a delicate crust and soft pillowy inside that is perfect with the spice. I could eat it every day. Alas, that could get expensive and I don’t need to be eating white rice noodles and fried tofu daily so I vowed to come up with a buckwheat and sautéed tofu version.

Once again, I channeled my inner Veggie Sandra Lee with a bag of frozen Thai-Style veggies. All about the convenience!

The final verdict is that this is not the sauce they use at the restaurant. The recipe I found for Kra Prow (and there were not many out there) has fish and oyster sauce in it, so my sauce is brown and theirs is not. Both are equally delicious in their own way though. This had more depth of flavor and the buckwheat soba is heartier than the rice noodles. As for similarities, both have the delicious garlic and heat elements as well as that aromatic basil.

Tofu Kra Prow with Buckwheat Noodles

Inspired by Tofu Kra Prow from my local Mai Thai’s Menu and this recipe; Kra Pow Chicken

Serves 5 (over 1 cup depending on size of eggplant)

Printable Recipe

Ingredients

1 block extra firm tofu, drained, pressed and cut into cubes

1 bag Thai Style frozen veggies, I used Cascadian Farm, Thai-Style Stir fry Blend

3 white Japanese Eggplant, chopped

1 head garlic (12 cloves), minced

2 -4 cayenne pepper, diced (I had to sub 1 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper)

1/2 to 1 cup low sodium vegetable broth

1 1/2 cups Thai Basil leaves (again had to sub regular basil as that’s what I had growing)
1 Pkg Buckwheat Soba, cooked to package directions and set aside
2 tsp rice wine vinegar

Sauce

6 Tbsp oyster sauce
4 Tbsp fish sauce

1/2 Tbsp Turbinado sugar
2 tsp low sodium Tamari (or soy sauce)

Directions

1. Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl.

2. Heat 1 Tbsp water or broth in a skillet or wok over medium heat; add garlic and pepper, sauté, stirring constantly until browned, about 3 minutes.

3. Add tofu and eggplant and sauté until browned, adding more water or broth as needed to prevent sticking. Remove from pan and set aside.

4. Heat another 1 Tbsp broth over high heat; add Thai vegetables, sauté 4 to 5 minutes. Add tofu and eggplant back to pan.

4. Stir in sauce and toss to coat; add broth, reduce heat and simmer. Add buckwheat soba. Remove from heat and stir in basil and rice wine vinegar.

Nutrition Facts

5 Servings (Large, over 1 cup servings, depending on the size of the eggplant)
Amount Per Serving

Calories 304.0
Total Fat 6.5 g
Saturated Fat 0.8 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.2 g
Monounsaturated Fat 1.3 g
Cholesterol 0.0 mg
Sodium 1,912.3 mg****
Potassium 458.1 mg
Total Carbohydrate 45.1 g
Dietary Fiber 6.2 g
Sugars 8.1 g
Protein 18.9 g

Vitamin A 11.5 %
Vitamin B-12 1.5 %
Vitamin B-6 9.5 %
Vitamin C 22.6 %
Vitamin D 0.0 %
Vitamin E 0.0 %
Calcium 13.3 %
Copper 10.3 %
Folate 8.2 %
Iron 12.4 %
Magnesium 23.3 %
Manganese 52.1 %
Niacin 4.1 %
Pantothenic Acid 1.2 %
Phosphorus 16.3 %
Riboflavin 3.7 %
Selenium 18.2 %
Thiamin 4.1 %
Zinc 7.7 %

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

****This dish will be lower in sodium than listed here due to the low sodium tamari and vegetable broth; however, to cut it down even more reduce the amount of fish sauce and oyster sauce a bit and that will help as well. I use Sparkrecipes as the recipe builder and there were no options for low sodium veggie broth or tamari.

Camping in Savannah

Camping, Restaurant Review 10 Responses »

Mar 012011

We had an amazing time camping in Savannah last weekend at Skidway State Park.

After much searching for the perfect spot..there she is!

There are marshes all around the park where my dad collects fiddler crabs to catch fish with.

Dad the fiddler crab wrangler.

Hi guys!

Sure enough, right when we finally found a parking spot downtown, you-know-who fell asleep.

We walked around City Walk. The weather was gorgeous in the high 70′s.

They have horse and carriage rides.

We tried out Goose Feathers Cafe for lunch.

I got a latte which was perfection.

My mom got tuna nicoise on a bagel.

….and Dad got the tuna on white.

Both said their sandwiches were excellent. Big chunks of soft tuna and fresh bread and veggies.

I got the veggie panini and was a bit disappointed. I was hoping for a pressed sandwich and more veggies than bread. The pesto they spread on the bread was excellent though.

We left the restaurant to walk around a bit more and found this really cool fountain.

Wine and dark chocolate by the fire later that night.

Along with some fresh cherries.

The next day we ventured back into town and spotted this art gallery.

We can’t wait to go back and visit next time!

Birthday Trip to St Augustine and the Floridian

Restaurant Review 10 Responses »

Feb 202011

In the months of January and February we have quite a few birthdays between friends and family. This year we all decided to head down to St Augustine to celebrate yesterday.

Of course, I suggested our new favorite little place to stay called the Edgewater Inn. (The view from here is where the photo for the home page of my blog comes from.)

We got there around 2:30 and spent the afternoon sipping cocktails on the deck.

Justine and her hubby Kerry

Here is a view looking at the Edgewater. It’s just to the left of the Bridge of Lions.

Dinner was at the Floridian which features seasonal, fresh and local foods.

My appetizer was this Lentil Sausage soup and the following strawberry beet salad with fresh goat cheese.

Fried Green Tomatoes Bruschetta

cornmeal dusted tomatoes, greens, chili-cumin aioli, and Goat’s Feta Cheese on artisan bread.

Fried Grit Cakes
cheesy pan fried polenta cakes topped with a zesty Apple-Tomatillo Salsa
$7

This was my entree; Sunday Supper
Choice of pan roasted free-range Chicken or Pecan-encrusted Tofu over Moroccan spiced root vegetables and quinoa with toasted garbanzo beans, creme fraiche and candied lemon peel w/ tofu $13