Downtown Edmonton, (close to Corso 32) Bar Bricco is a tiny 30 seat Italian wine and Spuntini Bar (which i believe means bites, noches, refreshments..etc)
Not much to the eye at first...if you are lucky to get a seat on the weekend then yay!!
I had no idea my mind was going to be blown....the little secrets and treats they are hiding should probably be illegal.
First i was introduced to sparkling red wine..yes RED wine!! Omg, thank you Teri (my bff) she ordered us each a glass of 2012 Medici ‘Concerto’ LAMBRUSCO, Emilia-Romagna.
So friggen delicious! Ruby red in color, dry but fruity and fresh, very different, very sparkly, very nice :)
Then we ordered a cheese tasting plate, cause honestly how can you choose just one cheese??
For $28 we received heaven on a plate......all i can say is, Black Truffle Moliterno! It's an aged sheep's milk cheese veined with black truffle paste......along with house made crusty almost burnt but good burnt bread, fresh creamy and nutty olive oils and Pear Marmelatta...olives and honey....
I don't remember much after that, i was in pure bliss...this place is a girls dream....well a foody girls dream....Be patient and wait for a seat!
I will be back, again and again and again.......
Natsha :)
http://barbricco.com/
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Departure, Portland Oregon
Located downtown Portland, sky high on the 15th floor of The Nines Hotel.
Supposedly breath taking views of the city. We were there for dinner in the winter so going outside was not an option.....
So its pretty "funky" in a 60's meets 90's meets Asia?....haha
Definitely some fusion going on here.
The chef Gregory Gourdet (made it to final two on Top Chef) has had fun adding to the modern Pan-Asian menu, from fancy Sushi Rolls to Dim Sum to Kushiyaki (a protein grilled over petrified charcoal).
We enjoyed BBQ Shortrib Buns, some colorful rolls including Beef Anago Tenderloin and Shrimp with Caviar.
My favorite was simply the Wok Fired Brussel Sprouts with chili, lime and mint yum!
I love nothing more than eating small plates, spaced out over hours, small tasty bites not being overwhelmed with huge portions.
Unfortunately our plates all came within minutes of each other...so we had a tiny table for two overflowing with plates, not very enjoyable at all...
I had confirmed with our sever prior to ordering if the food came out slowly and spaced out, she assured me it did......not.....
So that was quite disappointing.
Hard to enjoy your raw sushi rolls with sizzling beef in your face :o
Really uncomfortable chairs, tiny tables for two....
Too close to your neighbors, you feel like you are on a plane and your knees could touch at any moment....
I feel we were over dressed even though its claimed to be "high end" it does read "elegant but relaxed", so i suppose the child coloring on the floor next to us would confirm the "relaxed, refined' atmosphere....odd....again with the fusion...
So the food was good but did not blow me away. Perhaps sitting outside would be more inviting, maybe we will try that next time if we land in Portland again soon......
Natasha :)
http://departureportland.com/
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Mercer, Edmonton Alberta
Named after the builder John B Mercer, built in 1911, this 101 year old building (which also survived a fire) has been revamped for our enjoyment.
High ceilings, private nooks, open tables, creating a lofty, loungy, pub feel. It was a great first impression walking in.
You can feel the history yet enjoy the more modern ranch style.
Small batch brewers and a tasty wine list as well as their own classic cocktails some include Horses Neck, with Cognac, Ginger Ale, Bitters and lemon. Maple Manhattan, with Whiskey, Vermouth, Maple Syrup, Bitters, lemon and cherry. Crisp and simple.
Charcuterie board, Turkey sage sliders, AAA burgers, halibut and chips, house made ice cream! A twist to your typical pub fare. All prepared fresh with local ingredients.
I had Vegan Shepherd's Pie, with green lentils, spaghetti squash, smashed yukon gold potato, sweet corn, peas, wild mushrooms, toasted pine nut crust. Very tasty, great textures i would order it again.
Also had a Welsh beer, Celt gold organic Ale! Never heard of it before but was excited to try it and it was very good
Their motto is "Simple" which is what i am always looking for through my food journey.
I only had a small taste, but can not wait to head back for a casual yet superior dining experience...
Natasha:)
http://mercertavern.com/
High ceilings, private nooks, open tables, creating a lofty, loungy, pub feel. It was a great first impression walking in.
You can feel the history yet enjoy the more modern ranch style.
Small batch brewers and a tasty wine list as well as their own classic cocktails some include Horses Neck, with Cognac, Ginger Ale, Bitters and lemon. Maple Manhattan, with Whiskey, Vermouth, Maple Syrup, Bitters, lemon and cherry. Crisp and simple.
Charcuterie board, Turkey sage sliders, AAA burgers, halibut and chips, house made ice cream! A twist to your typical pub fare. All prepared fresh with local ingredients.
I had Vegan Shepherd's Pie, with green lentils, spaghetti squash, smashed yukon gold potato, sweet corn, peas, wild mushrooms, toasted pine nut crust. Very tasty, great textures i would order it again.
Also had a Welsh beer, Celt gold organic Ale! Never heard of it before but was excited to try it and it was very good
Their motto is "Simple" which is what i am always looking for through my food journey.
I only had a small taste, but can not wait to head back for a casual yet superior dining experience...
Natasha:)
http://mercertavern.com/
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Cibo Bistro, Edmonton, Alberta
Ahhh I have finally been inspired to blog again! Thank you Cibo!
Tucked away in Oliver Square, this small, chique, cozy kitchen is a gem.
I was welcomed as soon as I walked through the door, my reservation was acknowledged and our table was waiting, with menus, water and candlelight.
Our Server was very sweet and welcoming, I had a drink within 5 minutes of being seated. A very fresh well made martini which is hard to find, which had extra olives without even asking! Sold!
Umm fresh local food, almost everything made in house, cheese, cured meats, pasta....very impressive.
I had Insalata Di Rucola, wild arugula, Barlett pear, shaved candy cane beets, toasted pistachios, tartufo (black Truffle) vinaigrette, Pecorino (Italian Romano). An amazing salad, so fresh and piled high, such a great balance of sweet, savory and zesty.
I then had the Filetto di Maiale, Smoked Pork Tenderloin with chick pea and cannellini beans and rosemary reduction. The pork was nicely smoked, not overwhelming, very good reduction added some sweetness, healthy touch with the beans.
My friend had some fresh, plump olives to start and a delish creamy gnocchi as her main, Gnocchi Alla Panna, with goat ricotta, shallots, candied pears and Gorgonzola.
We also had dessert which was very good, clearly made in house. I had the Panna Cotta, honey custard, Sambuca stewed figs and apricots, toasted walnuts. So creamy very delightful. My friend had the Chocolate Mousse, Tazza Di Cioccolato, chocolate hazelnut mousse, salted hazelnuts & Braida marinated black berries. Quite rich but still very yum!
Overall a great experience, good wine selection, fair prices and to top it off they have an Espresso machine!!
Natasha:) xoxo
http://www.cibobistro.com/
Tucked away in Oliver Square, this small, chique, cozy kitchen is a gem.
I was welcomed as soon as I walked through the door, my reservation was acknowledged and our table was waiting, with menus, water and candlelight.
Our Server was very sweet and welcoming, I had a drink within 5 minutes of being seated. A very fresh well made martini which is hard to find, which had extra olives without even asking! Sold!
Umm fresh local food, almost everything made in house, cheese, cured meats, pasta....very impressive.
I had Insalata Di Rucola, wild arugula, Barlett pear, shaved candy cane beets, toasted pistachios, tartufo (black Truffle) vinaigrette, Pecorino (Italian Romano). An amazing salad, so fresh and piled high, such a great balance of sweet, savory and zesty.
I then had the Filetto di Maiale, Smoked Pork Tenderloin with chick pea and cannellini beans and rosemary reduction. The pork was nicely smoked, not overwhelming, very good reduction added some sweetness, healthy touch with the beans.
My friend had some fresh, plump olives to start and a delish creamy gnocchi as her main, Gnocchi Alla Panna, with goat ricotta, shallots, candied pears and Gorgonzola.
We also had dessert which was very good, clearly made in house. I had the Panna Cotta, honey custard, Sambuca stewed figs and apricots, toasted walnuts. So creamy very delightful. My friend had the Chocolate Mousse, Tazza Di Cioccolato, chocolate hazelnut mousse, salted hazelnuts & Braida marinated black berries. Quite rich but still very yum!
Overall a great experience, good wine selection, fair prices and to top it off they have an Espresso machine!!
Natasha:) xoxo
http://www.cibobistro.com/
Friday, June 8, 2012
Jane's On The Common, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Great Brunch! Jane's over looks the Halifax Common, which they refer to as "that great green space in the middle of the city" haha. So very quaint location, older houses but mostly maintained, big beautiful trees, nice neighborhood.
Having survived a massive snow storm and a hurricane, if this little restaurant could talk...Jane has come a long way and has a very interesting story about the opening of "Jane's on the Common" on her site.
They do not take reservations, which i approve of, makes everyone feel equal;)
They strive on "real food", which is what i live by. All fresh, local and made from scratch yummy meals.
Joe had Maritime Breakfast, breaded line-caught Haddock Fillet, two eggs, apple-cranberry chutney, roasted baby red potatoes, sassy baked beans and sourdough toast. Really fresh and very tasty, not heavy at all.
I had the Huevos Divorciados (yup divorced eggs, no worries, everything is fine:p) corn tortillas, two poached eggs, avocado, black beans, roasted tomatoes, white cheddar, salsa verde and cilantro-tofu cream. So light, and tasty, not your typical greasy spoon Sunday brunch that give you nothing but regrets...
We sat up at the counter which was fun for a change. I had a yummy smoothie made with fruit juice, yogurt and Nova Scotia honey, very good.
Service was nice, friendly and prompt. They are definitely doing well, and feeding lots of people.
They also just opened Jane's Next Door, where they have, sandwiches, baked goodies and frozen meals to take home. Have to check that out next time we happen to be in the neighborhood....
Natasha:)
http://www.janesonthecommon.com/?q=node/11
Having survived a massive snow storm and a hurricane, if this little restaurant could talk...Jane has come a long way and has a very interesting story about the opening of "Jane's on the Common" on her site.
They do not take reservations, which i approve of, makes everyone feel equal;)
They strive on "real food", which is what i live by. All fresh, local and made from scratch yummy meals.
Joe had Maritime Breakfast, breaded line-caught Haddock Fillet, two eggs, apple-cranberry chutney, roasted baby red potatoes, sassy baked beans and sourdough toast. Really fresh and very tasty, not heavy at all.
I had the Huevos Divorciados (yup divorced eggs, no worries, everything is fine:p) corn tortillas, two poached eggs, avocado, black beans, roasted tomatoes, white cheddar, salsa verde and cilantro-tofu cream. So light, and tasty, not your typical greasy spoon Sunday brunch that give you nothing but regrets...
We sat up at the counter which was fun for a change. I had a yummy smoothie made with fruit juice, yogurt and Nova Scotia honey, very good.
Service was nice, friendly and prompt. They are definitely doing well, and feeding lots of people.
They also just opened Jane's Next Door, where they have, sandwiches, baked goodies and frozen meals to take home. Have to check that out next time we happen to be in the neighborhood....
Natasha:)
http://www.janesonthecommon.com/?q=node/11
Sabor, Edmonton, Alberta
Sabor is downtown Edmonton, located in the Boarwalk buliding. They do lunch and dinner, desserts coffees and drinks. Very welcoming, warm open atmosphere. The tables are well placed so that it feels private but not hidden. First impressions are, ooohh kinda fancy, but its not too fancy once you get situated.
We did lunch, coffee was good, fresh and plentiful! Waiter was in a hurry for something not really sure what...
So i ordered the Piri Piri, garlic chicken, which is a Portuguese style of cooking. Basically Piri Piri is a hot chili pepper. This came with home cut fries and salad. Chicken was good, didn't like the soft skin on top though, no skin or crispy skin is preferable. Fries weren't as good as i had hoped, for home cut, i think its the potatoes they use...salad was fresh and tasty.
My friend ordered the Panini with chicken, spinach, portabella and feta, she got a soup instead of salad on the side. Her soup came out first..kinda disappointing, soup and sandwich should always come together as a team! The sandwich was very tasteless, zero seasoning, very dry, no love...too bad, it was a good thought..
So dessert, Tiramisu was "tastes like it came out of a box" hehe, kinda over cheesy tasting...we also had the Leite Creme, was really nice and creamy, its a Dulce de leche Portuguese dessert, has a creme brulee theme going on, with the burnt sugar on top.
So...i am thinking that perhaps Sabor roars better at night, for dinner, i think i will try going back to see what else they have to offer...
Overall it was still a nice visit with a good friend, but maybe next time without the launching of her latte across the table hmmm......
Natasha:)
http://www.sabordivino.ca/
We did lunch, coffee was good, fresh and plentiful! Waiter was in a hurry for something not really sure what...
So i ordered the Piri Piri, garlic chicken, which is a Portuguese style of cooking. Basically Piri Piri is a hot chili pepper. This came with home cut fries and salad. Chicken was good, didn't like the soft skin on top though, no skin or crispy skin is preferable. Fries weren't as good as i had hoped, for home cut, i think its the potatoes they use...salad was fresh and tasty.
My friend ordered the Panini with chicken, spinach, portabella and feta, she got a soup instead of salad on the side. Her soup came out first..kinda disappointing, soup and sandwich should always come together as a team! The sandwich was very tasteless, zero seasoning, very dry, no love...too bad, it was a good thought..
So dessert, Tiramisu was "tastes like it came out of a box" hehe, kinda over cheesy tasting...we also had the Leite Creme, was really nice and creamy, its a Dulce de leche Portuguese dessert, has a creme brulee theme going on, with the burnt sugar on top.
So...i am thinking that perhaps Sabor roars better at night, for dinner, i think i will try going back to see what else they have to offer...
Overall it was still a nice visit with a good friend, but maybe next time without the launching of her latte across the table hmmm......
Natasha:)
http://www.sabordivino.ca/
Friday, May 18, 2012
Tide & Boar Gastropub, Moncton, New Brunswick
Love!! this place. Great open and yet intimate atmosphere, fabulous food and wonderful drinks, (the best martini olives). So this pub is on Main Street, in the beautiful city of Moncton. Tide & Boar really helps to brighten up the sort of quiet that lingers through this town. Always busy, and welcoming, its perfect for everyone. They also have a nice big patio.
So what have we eaten, well number one i would say is the Chowder, Atlantic Tide Chowder, with smoked Haddock, salmon, mussels, shrimp, fennel and dill. So creamy and hot every time i get it, its so fresh.
Polenta Fries, so they mix polenta and Asiago bake it then cut the polenta into fry shapes then fry them and serve it with a basil, salsa verde aioli. Very unique, and simple tasting.
They have OMG oysters, yup that's what they are called, Parmesan, bacon, salsa Verde and crispy capers, all melted on top of each oyster. Very yummy, but perhaps a bit better with larger oysters.
Hmm what else, stuffed chicken wings, Chorizo sausage, smoked Gouda, and apple cider buffalo sauce served with a Belgium blue cheese dip. These are very tasty, just need a bit more stuffing, but the wings are so crispy and fresh, and the cider buffalo sauce is yummy.
Roasted cauliflower with kimchi puree and walnut salt. Great combination, roasted cauliflower gets a nutty flavor, and then the sweet kimchi and salt just create a wonderful flavor combination, I would prefer a larger portion af cauliflower though, i mean come on its cauliflower tehee.
Great free-range beef burgers, not too big, just the right size. Grilled fresh, topped with white cheddar, balsamic onion, dill pickle and their homemade Tide ketchup. There salad is great to have with the burger, artisan lettuce, shallot dressing, roasted root vegetables and toasted granola.
The Boar Poutine! haha what a fun thing to have for your meal, well it was for Joe, he really enjoyed it. Chicken and boar gravy, hand cut fries, caramelized onions and of course cheese curds. So good, creamy toppings and fresh homemade fries, so delish!
Rolling Rock Battered Haddock, fresh and crispy, not greasy at all, served with lemon tartar sauce and fennel slaw.
We had a couple other things but im tired of writing...haha, just go, its good everytime. Service was always done with smiles.....we will be back......
Natasha:)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)