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
Friday, June 8, 2012
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:)
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Blackfin Pub, Comox, BC
Cozy, welcoming and home style meals. Nice place to come when you want a night off from cooking, which even Chefs need once in a while:)
So while living in Comox for a month, this became our regular spot. Yummy french onion soup made with caramelized onions, roasted garlic, Guiness, Parmesan, Swiss and garlic Focaccia.
Unique appetizers like fresh kettle fried Fanny Bay Oysters, and crispy Phyllo wrapped Asian Shrimp bundles with Wasabi mayo and sweet chili dip.
We also had their AAA Sirloin Burgers on whole wheat buns with roast red pepper Aioli, and big crispy fries. Also the Seafood Pubhouse, toasted triple decker, snow crab, shrimp, bacon, lettuce, tomato and dill mayo. The menu is a bit overwhelming from too many yummy choices, i do not like huge menus because its too hard to make a choice. I had the bacon wrapped scallops and they were not very nice, highly unlikely that they were made in-house, they were dried up and not very fresh.
We unforgivably did not order any desserts, but they looked wonderful.
Did i mention the view? Mountains and ocean, too bad it wasn't a bit warmer we would have sat on their balcony right over the marina.
Great beverage selection, and very nice service. Blackfin helped us feel at home......
Natasha:)
http://www.blackfinpub.com/
So while living in Comox for a month, this became our regular spot. Yummy french onion soup made with caramelized onions, roasted garlic, Guiness, Parmesan, Swiss and garlic Focaccia.
Unique appetizers like fresh kettle fried Fanny Bay Oysters, and crispy Phyllo wrapped Asian Shrimp bundles with Wasabi mayo and sweet chili dip.
We also had their AAA Sirloin Burgers on whole wheat buns with roast red pepper Aioli, and big crispy fries. Also the Seafood Pubhouse, toasted triple decker, snow crab, shrimp, bacon, lettuce, tomato and dill mayo. The menu is a bit overwhelming from too many yummy choices, i do not like huge menus because its too hard to make a choice. I had the bacon wrapped scallops and they were not very nice, highly unlikely that they were made in-house, they were dried up and not very fresh.
We unforgivably did not order any desserts, but they looked wonderful.
Did i mention the view? Mountains and ocean, too bad it wasn't a bit warmer we would have sat on their balcony right over the marina.
Great beverage selection, and very nice service. Blackfin helped us feel at home......
Natasha:)
http://www.blackfinpub.com/
RView Lounge, Seattle, Washington
Fabulous! Located downtown Seattle on the 28th floor of the Renaissance hotel.
Go on up and grab a seat by the window and enjoy the views of downtown Seattle and Elliot Bay.
Have a cocktail, we enjoyed a couple martinis which were delish! I had a Cucumber Gin Martini - Hendricks Gin, fresh squeezed lemon juice and cucumber, so fresh and yummy:)
Joe had a Classic 1950s Martini - Belvedere Vodka, dry vermouth and olives, very good.
We simply shared their Bruschetta, grilled sourdough, fennel, tomato, white beans & capers. It was the most unique bruschetta i have tried, the main ingredient was white beans instead of classic tomatoes and the capers really finish it off.
Such an enjoyable and romantic spot, a must if you are in Seattle, we went back the next night for another round of martinis!! If only they were open a bit later, 11pm doesn't do it for me....We will be back.....
Natashaaaaa:)
Go on up and grab a seat by the window and enjoy the views of downtown Seattle and Elliot Bay.
Have a cocktail, we enjoyed a couple martinis which were delish! I had a Cucumber Gin Martini - Hendricks Gin, fresh squeezed lemon juice and cucumber, so fresh and yummy:)
Joe had a Classic 1950s Martini - Belvedere Vodka, dry vermouth and olives, very good.
We simply shared their Bruschetta, grilled sourdough, fennel, tomato, white beans & capers. It was the most unique bruschetta i have tried, the main ingredient was white beans instead of classic tomatoes and the capers really finish it off.
Such an enjoyable and romantic spot, a must if you are in Seattle, we went back the next night for another round of martinis!! If only they were open a bit later, 11pm doesn't do it for me....We will be back.....
Natashaaaaa:)
Monday, April 16, 2012
Mad Rona's Coffee Bar, Gabriola Island, B.C.
Fresh, new, zen vibe. Open every day of the week from 7am-9pm. This place is an island gem. Organic, fair trade coffee purchased from Cobble Hill south of the island, fresh made sandwiches, soups, and daily baked yummies!!
Choose your order at the counter and take a seat.
I had the Greek Goddess sandwich, house made Tzatziki, cucumber, tomato, lettuce, red onion and black olive Tapenade, all served on soft delicious fresh bread. Such a zesty and tasty combination. Mum and Joe both got the Tsunami, with seared Ahi Tuna, house pickled red onion, lettuce and Chipotle Aioli served on a Portuguese bun.
Coffee was as good as you would hope for, fresh and hot. Made with their fancy La Marzzoco FB 80 Espresso machine and swift grinder.
We got a bunch of desserts to go as well, a few cookies, peanut butter which was crispy on the edges and chewy on the inside, a Compost cookie which had espresso, choc chips, pretzels and maybe a few more bits in it. Ginger cookie needed a bit more ginger. A pecan square which was "to die for", yes that's a cliche thing to say, but precise.
Worth checking out if you happen to be visiting the island, or if you live there go check it out, i guarantee you cant just go once....
Natasha:)
http://www.madronascoffeebar.ca/
Choose your order at the counter and take a seat.
I had the Greek Goddess sandwich, house made Tzatziki, cucumber, tomato, lettuce, red onion and black olive Tapenade, all served on soft delicious fresh bread. Such a zesty and tasty combination. Mum and Joe both got the Tsunami, with seared Ahi Tuna, house pickled red onion, lettuce and Chipotle Aioli served on a Portuguese bun.
Coffee was as good as you would hope for, fresh and hot. Made with their fancy La Marzzoco FB 80 Espresso machine and swift grinder.
We got a bunch of desserts to go as well, a few cookies, peanut butter which was crispy on the edges and chewy on the inside, a Compost cookie which had espresso, choc chips, pretzels and maybe a few more bits in it. Ginger cookie needed a bit more ginger. A pecan square which was "to die for", yes that's a cliche thing to say, but precise.
Worth checking out if you happen to be visiting the island, or if you live there go check it out, i guarantee you cant just go once....
Natasha:)
http://www.madronascoffeebar.ca/
Friday, April 13, 2012
Honey Dip Doughnuts and Goodies, North Vancouver, B.C.
Love this place! Located in the sweet little town of Deep Cove, they are busy with customers lining up for more yummy food and coffee.
I was in the mood for a nice fresh breakfast after a long night of traveling, and thanks to Joe i got that and more.
Just tell them your order and take a seat, i chose an omelet with tomato, onion, spinach and mushrooms, plus an Americano. Joe had bacon, eggs and hash. Everything was so good, simple and freshly prepared. The coffee was very robust and delicious.
We sat at the window and watched what others were ordering, massive cinnamon buns, and beautiful latte's, truly works of art.
We got a couple doughnuts and a muffin for later, i love the maple one its my fave, very thick and chewy with just enough maple glaze on top.
Every town needs a place like this. There was lots of seating too, in doors and outdoors.
We will be stopping on our way back for some road snacks!......
Natasha:)
http://www.honeydoughnuts.com
I was in the mood for a nice fresh breakfast after a long night of traveling, and thanks to Joe i got that and more.
Just tell them your order and take a seat, i chose an omelet with tomato, onion, spinach and mushrooms, plus an Americano. Joe had bacon, eggs and hash. Everything was so good, simple and freshly prepared. The coffee was very robust and delicious.
We sat at the window and watched what others were ordering, massive cinnamon buns, and beautiful latte's, truly works of art.
We got a couple doughnuts and a muffin for later, i love the maple one its my fave, very thick and chewy with just enough maple glaze on top.
Every town needs a place like this. There was lots of seating too, in doors and outdoors.
We will be stopping on our way back for some road snacks!......
Natasha:)
http://www.honeydoughnuts.com
Friday, March 23, 2012
MRKT, Edmonton, Alberta
Created by the previous co-founder of Soul Soup, which was a part of Edmonton for four years, and was closed so that Carla Alexander could open MRKT with partner Sal Di Maio who co-owns Red Star pub and Halo lounge which are located on the lower level of the same building.
Let me share this place with you, its perfect for sharing small plates and a bottle of wine. The atmosphere is small and inviting, surrounded with wood, its almost like being in a barrel.
I had such a delicious drink i had to have two..hehe, vodka, strawberry basil syrup and Prosecco, so fresh and light, very yummy.
We shared a few plates,spiced olives, roasted tomatoes, feta cheese and crostinis this was one plate, very simple, but so good if you like that Mediterranean style. We had a slow braised Spring Creek Ranch (Vegreville Alberta)boneless beef rib served with coleslaw and soft polenta. It was melt in your mouth heavenly. Also we had Sauteed prawns on sweet potato mash, tomato butter, white wine and miso-chimichurri. Very good, large fresh prawns not over cooked!, yummy potato mash:)
This place has a great charm, if we didnt have other plans that night we would have stayed longer for sure.
With daily fresh organic specials and a small menu to choose from its not overwhelming to choose your plate or plates to share with someone who will share back;)
I will definitely go back for a romantic evening or a nice lunch...
Natasha
http://mrktcafeteria.com/
Let me share this place with you, its perfect for sharing small plates and a bottle of wine. The atmosphere is small and inviting, surrounded with wood, its almost like being in a barrel.
I had such a delicious drink i had to have two..hehe, vodka, strawberry basil syrup and Prosecco, so fresh and light, very yummy.
We shared a few plates,spiced olives, roasted tomatoes, feta cheese and crostinis this was one plate, very simple, but so good if you like that Mediterranean style. We had a slow braised Spring Creek Ranch (Vegreville Alberta)boneless beef rib served with coleslaw and soft polenta. It was melt in your mouth heavenly. Also we had Sauteed prawns on sweet potato mash, tomato butter, white wine and miso-chimichurri. Very good, large fresh prawns not over cooked!, yummy potato mash:)
This place has a great charm, if we didnt have other plans that night we would have stayed longer for sure.
With daily fresh organic specials and a small menu to choose from its not overwhelming to choose your plate or plates to share with someone who will share back;)
I will definitely go back for a romantic evening or a nice lunch...
Natasha
http://mrktcafeteria.com/
Dumplings, Edmonton, Alberta
Fresh and healthy Asian Fusion.
Love this place, they welcome you with open arms. We wanted to order some food to take home, so the lady gave us some menus and told us to have a seat and brought us some water, so after a difficult choice because everything sounds so good, we got a Wonton soup, Dan Dan Noodle soup, some ginger beef and some spicy crispy pork. They packed it up nicely for us, with chop sticks too!
So the soups were both delicious and very savory, we chose our spiciness level, joe got spicy i got medium to be safe.
You can taste ginger and maybe some lemon grass and garnished with cashews. I personally dont like nuts in my soup, but joe loved it. The meat dishes were good as well, made fresh to order. However i just found the spices a bit bitter for my taste. We also got some crispy fried wontons which were very good.
They do bubble tea as well, which i have yet to try!
We must go back and try their hand made dumplings that can be steamed, grilled or deep fried...
Natasha:)
http://www.dumplingstherestaurant.com/
Love this place, they welcome you with open arms. We wanted to order some food to take home, so the lady gave us some menus and told us to have a seat and brought us some water, so after a difficult choice because everything sounds so good, we got a Wonton soup, Dan Dan Noodle soup, some ginger beef and some spicy crispy pork. They packed it up nicely for us, with chop sticks too!
So the soups were both delicious and very savory, we chose our spiciness level, joe got spicy i got medium to be safe.
You can taste ginger and maybe some lemon grass and garnished with cashews. I personally dont like nuts in my soup, but joe loved it. The meat dishes were good as well, made fresh to order. However i just found the spices a bit bitter for my taste. We also got some crispy fried wontons which were very good.
They do bubble tea as well, which i have yet to try!
We must go back and try their hand made dumplings that can be steamed, grilled or deep fried...
Natasha:)
http://www.dumplingstherestaurant.com/
The Red Piano, Edmonton, Alberta
Where do i begin with this place....located in West Edmonton Mall...that should say it all hehe. Well when i phoned to make the reservation i felt like i was under arrest with all the rules she listed to me, strict dress code, no sneakers, no hats, no rips or holes in jeans, for men dark colored shoes and collard shirts, lots of cancellation rules or penalties, minimum $25 spent on food, mandatory $10 entertainment charge...blah blah so many rules!
I hate rules haha, so i thought what the heck lets give it a shot.
So all dressed up, walking through Bourbon Street in the mall isn't exactly ideal, surrounded by, teens, drunks, and lots of smokers right outside the doors. When we got to the hostess stand they made us take off our coats, mandatory coat check..um excuse me but im not sure about you, but i dont like being forced to take off any piece of clothing, especially when im wearing a nice dress according to your dress code, i would at least like to get to my table before de-robing, haha.
Ok so we were sat at our table, nice view of the two red pianos in the center of the restaurant, unsure of whats to come.
We order some drinks, and our dinner, it took a while but i dont mind waiting for food. However it was cold when it arrived, i had a steak which was good, but just barely warm, it had "crispy" onions on top that were cold and chewy, apparently there was a sauce but the lighting was so dim i could barely see my plate. The potatoes were piping hot though, a peppercorn pave...
So the pianists started playing after 9pm, they were entertaining, they take requests and do their best to play that song using their ipads to bring the songs up, which is cool. However, it took us a while to realize that you are supposed to give cash with each request, so if they didnt get cash they didnt play your request....even though everyone in the restaurant has payed a mandatory $10 entertainment fee, but hey who's counting...
They try to make you sing along, which is um nice, i guess im just a party pooper, i was more thinking nice relaxing dinner with some piano in the background, not singing at the top of my lungs to "i like big butts"....
The servers wear very short dresses and skirts, with little left to the imagination, dont get me wrong i appreciate a beautiful woman any day, but only if she chooses to and isnt forced for her job "uniform".
Dessert was neat, a platter with, whoopi pies, snowballs, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate shake, cinnamon donuts and cotton candy, this was lots of fun and too much food haha, need like eight people to finish that platter, we took most of it home, except for the milkshake because according to the server it would melt if we tried to take it to go.....weird
So...i mean the menu is different with alligator popcorn, and grilled cheese lollipops, i would be curious about some of these items...but it seems like such an ordeal for a night out, i doubt we will be rushing back for a nother $300 bill......but be my guest, i have talked to people that enjoyed themselves...
Natasha:)
http://www.theredpiano.ca/index.asp
I hate rules haha, so i thought what the heck lets give it a shot.
So all dressed up, walking through Bourbon Street in the mall isn't exactly ideal, surrounded by, teens, drunks, and lots of smokers right outside the doors. When we got to the hostess stand they made us take off our coats, mandatory coat check..um excuse me but im not sure about you, but i dont like being forced to take off any piece of clothing, especially when im wearing a nice dress according to your dress code, i would at least like to get to my table before de-robing, haha.
Ok so we were sat at our table, nice view of the two red pianos in the center of the restaurant, unsure of whats to come.
We order some drinks, and our dinner, it took a while but i dont mind waiting for food. However it was cold when it arrived, i had a steak which was good, but just barely warm, it had "crispy" onions on top that were cold and chewy, apparently there was a sauce but the lighting was so dim i could barely see my plate. The potatoes were piping hot though, a peppercorn pave...
So the pianists started playing after 9pm, they were entertaining, they take requests and do their best to play that song using their ipads to bring the songs up, which is cool. However, it took us a while to realize that you are supposed to give cash with each request, so if they didnt get cash they didnt play your request....even though everyone in the restaurant has payed a mandatory $10 entertainment fee, but hey who's counting...
They try to make you sing along, which is um nice, i guess im just a party pooper, i was more thinking nice relaxing dinner with some piano in the background, not singing at the top of my lungs to "i like big butts"....
The servers wear very short dresses and skirts, with little left to the imagination, dont get me wrong i appreciate a beautiful woman any day, but only if she chooses to and isnt forced for her job "uniform".
Dessert was neat, a platter with, whoopi pies, snowballs, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate shake, cinnamon donuts and cotton candy, this was lots of fun and too much food haha, need like eight people to finish that platter, we took most of it home, except for the milkshake because according to the server it would melt if we tried to take it to go.....weird
So...i mean the menu is different with alligator popcorn, and grilled cheese lollipops, i would be curious about some of these items...but it seems like such an ordeal for a night out, i doubt we will be rushing back for a nother $300 bill......but be my guest, i have talked to people that enjoyed themselves...
Natasha:)
http://www.theredpiano.ca/index.asp
Dauphine Bakery and Bistro, Edmonton, Alberta
Formerly known as "Queen of Tarts", after a trademark lawsuit they changed their name to Dauphine Bakery....Anyways they are doing well, the owner started selling her lemon tarts at local farmers markets and decided to go bigger. She is located downtown in a basement suit. Open concept, and just a few tables. Nice white colors, and touch of European decor.
When you first get to the bottom of the stairs it is a bit confusing because you aren't sure if there is table service or if you order up at the counter...but i guess its a bit of both.
Dauphine uses local, international and organic products. Fresh local butter and the finest French Vahlrona chocolate.
They are now doing breakfast, lunch and dinner. Fresh home-made soups, salads and sandwiches, also a specialty high tea service on weekends.
The coffee was fresh and hot! Always a good thing. I had a salmon and rice soup, with a spinach and leek quiche. Very nice, simple and made with love. Mum had a tuna sandwich on a lovely baguette and a fresh fennel and pea salad, crisp and light.
We tried a lemon coconut square, very nice, tart and chewy. We also tried the white chocolate, pistachio square which was tremendously too rich, almost in edible, but some people might appreciate that kind of sweetness...
I think that they could do with a few more seats. The service was very sweet, the server even put our left overs in the fridge until we were ready to leave:) I will be going back........
Natasha:)
https://www.facebook.com/dauphinebakery?sk=info
"They dont have a proper website right now because of the lawsuit, it is in the works"
When you first get to the bottom of the stairs it is a bit confusing because you aren't sure if there is table service or if you order up at the counter...but i guess its a bit of both.
Dauphine uses local, international and organic products. Fresh local butter and the finest French Vahlrona chocolate.
They are now doing breakfast, lunch and dinner. Fresh home-made soups, salads and sandwiches, also a specialty high tea service on weekends.
The coffee was fresh and hot! Always a good thing. I had a salmon and rice soup, with a spinach and leek quiche. Very nice, simple and made with love. Mum had a tuna sandwich on a lovely baguette and a fresh fennel and pea salad, crisp and light.
We tried a lemon coconut square, very nice, tart and chewy. We also tried the white chocolate, pistachio square which was tremendously too rich, almost in edible, but some people might appreciate that kind of sweetness...
I think that they could do with a few more seats. The service was very sweet, the server even put our left overs in the fridge until we were ready to leave:) I will be going back........
Natasha:)
https://www.facebook.com/dauphinebakery?sk=info
"They dont have a proper website right now because of the lawsuit, it is in the works"
Monday, March 12, 2012
Culina Mill Creek, Edmonton, Alberta
Cozy, quaint and sweet. This cute restaurant is just a block away from overlooking the river valley. I was pleasantly content after our meal here.
Nice service, nice atmosphere, they call it "an intimate, Bohemian atmosphere". They are known as the Culina Family, owners of BIBO wine bar, and Culina Muttart.
The Culina family is part of a network in Edmonton Alberta, of farmers, artisans and artists, that are attempting to change the way we cook and eat.
We started with Potato Bravas, cubes of potato fried and served with a spicy tomato sauce and chili aioli. This is a native dish to Spain, usually served as tapas. We also had the fried calamari in sweet coconut curry sauce, this wasnt a favourite of mine, i found the curry to be too overpowering for the delicate flavour of calamari, plus the calamari was bitter from perhaps overused frying oil...anyhow, it was different...
So amongst us four we had a couple Chorizo Sausage Hot Pots with chickpeas and grilled cornbread. It was hot and delicious, a perfect "man dish". A Moroccan Vegetable Tagine on couscous with grilled flatbread, it was colourful with a nice mix of fresh veggies, with a mild sauce and yummy couscous.
I had the Lacombe Heritage Pork with spicy chimmichurri sauce and couscous. Very nice quite simple, but good. I always feel better eating local pork.
For dessert we had a spiced chocolate pate, which was neatly presented, surrounded by a delicious Crème Anglais. It did indeed have a pleasant heat to it, my guess would be cayenne.
Also a dulce de leche cake with a coconut gelato. Banana fritters, and a warm chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream served in a cup!
Everything was nice with love in each ingredient. I would be happy to go back and try some other dishes.....
Natasha:)
http://culinafamily.com/mill-creek/
Nice service, nice atmosphere, they call it "an intimate, Bohemian atmosphere". They are known as the Culina Family, owners of BIBO wine bar, and Culina Muttart.
The Culina family is part of a network in Edmonton Alberta, of farmers, artisans and artists, that are attempting to change the way we cook and eat.
We started with Potato Bravas, cubes of potato fried and served with a spicy tomato sauce and chili aioli. This is a native dish to Spain, usually served as tapas. We also had the fried calamari in sweet coconut curry sauce, this wasnt a favourite of mine, i found the curry to be too overpowering for the delicate flavour of calamari, plus the calamari was bitter from perhaps overused frying oil...anyhow, it was different...
So amongst us four we had a couple Chorizo Sausage Hot Pots with chickpeas and grilled cornbread. It was hot and delicious, a perfect "man dish". A Moroccan Vegetable Tagine on couscous with grilled flatbread, it was colourful with a nice mix of fresh veggies, with a mild sauce and yummy couscous.
I had the Lacombe Heritage Pork with spicy chimmichurri sauce and couscous. Very nice quite simple, but good. I always feel better eating local pork.
For dessert we had a spiced chocolate pate, which was neatly presented, surrounded by a delicious Crème Anglais. It did indeed have a pleasant heat to it, my guess would be cayenne.
Also a dulce de leche cake with a coconut gelato. Banana fritters, and a warm chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream served in a cup!
Everything was nice with love in each ingredient. I would be happy to go back and try some other dishes.....
Natasha:)
http://culinafamily.com/mill-creek/
Sunday, March 11, 2012
The Flatbread Company, Maui, Hawaii
"Real food served by real people in a real environment"
So delicious, hot melty fresh pizza!! Sluurrp my mouth is watering just remembering how yummy is was. This casual and funky restaurant is located in Paia Maui, a small surfing town in northern Maui, this town alone is a hot spot to visit, but when you are hungry and craving fresh local ingredients then this is your place.
I ordred a half and half flatbread becasue all the options sound so good its hard to choose just one, so i got Coevolution with - Imported Kalamata olives, fresh Maui organic rosemary, organic red onions, a blend of Hawaiian goat cheeses, fire-roasted sweet red peppers, and premium whole milk mozzarella, baked on organic bread dough with homemade organic garlic oil and a blend of organic herbs. And on the other half i got the Pa'ia Bay Ohana with wood-fired cauldron tomato sauce, caramelized organic onions, organic mushrooms, premium whole milk mozzarella and imported Parmesan cheese baked on organic
bread dough with homemade organic garlic oil, sprinkled with a blend of organic herbs.
Like are you kidding me!!
Everything is cooked to order in their beautful earthen fire ovens. When your patiently waited pizza arrives its beautiful and colourful to look at and smells amazing, but be careful cause its so hot!
Flatbread Company is proud to use organic food, local farmers and local produce. With the help and support of the locals they have managed to to open nine other locations all over the map. Check out their site.
And we WILL be back.....
Natasha:)
http://flatbreadcompany.com/FlatbreadHome2010.html
So delicious, hot melty fresh pizza!! Sluurrp my mouth is watering just remembering how yummy is was. This casual and funky restaurant is located in Paia Maui, a small surfing town in northern Maui, this town alone is a hot spot to visit, but when you are hungry and craving fresh local ingredients then this is your place.
I ordred a half and half flatbread becasue all the options sound so good its hard to choose just one, so i got Coevolution with - Imported Kalamata olives, fresh Maui organic rosemary, organic red onions, a blend of Hawaiian goat cheeses, fire-roasted sweet red peppers, and premium whole milk mozzarella, baked on organic bread dough with homemade organic garlic oil and a blend of organic herbs. And on the other half i got the Pa'ia Bay Ohana with wood-fired cauldron tomato sauce, caramelized organic onions, organic mushrooms, premium whole milk mozzarella and imported Parmesan cheese baked on organic
bread dough with homemade organic garlic oil, sprinkled with a blend of organic herbs.
Like are you kidding me!!
Everything is cooked to order in their beautful earthen fire ovens. When your patiently waited pizza arrives its beautiful and colourful to look at and smells amazing, but be careful cause its so hot!
Flatbread Company is proud to use organic food, local farmers and local produce. With the help and support of the locals they have managed to to open nine other locations all over the map. Check out their site.
And we WILL be back.....
Natasha:)
http://flatbreadcompany.com/FlatbreadHome2010.html
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Mala, Marriott Wailea, Maui HI
This restaurant is a dream. Restaurant or lounge side, you still get a beautiful view of the Pacific ocean, the setting is perfect and relaxing. Glowing torches in the evening along with a ocean breeze. The service was great both times we went.
We were actually there for the first time to have our wedding reception dinner tasting....it was fabulous, so i have tasted a lot of the menu. Everything is so fresh, lots of seafood choices. If you are into oysters i highly recommend an oyster shooter or two....they come fresh shucked with Hood Canal oysters, Ponzu ( a citrus soy sauce), Tobiko Caviar, Wasabi and chives. This is the most entertaining and flavourful mouthful. I can not wait to have a few more of those.
Chef Mark Ellman owns the original Mala, as well as Maui Tacos. He has a few partners in this second location. Chef strives on fresh, local and organic. Together Chef Mark and his team have created a Mediterranean and Pacific Rim cuisine.
Try the whole wok fried fish! its so cool when it comes out, they aren't joking when they say whole fish. Its cooked in fresh ginger, garlic and black bean sauce and comes with your choice of Molokai sweet potatoes or three grain brown rice and they will make it as mild or spicy as you wish.
The Hoisin Glazed ribs are delicious, perfect combination of sweet and savoury.
Crispy Coconut shrimp, Ahi tuna or Lamb pita with a very tasty Raita garlic ailoi.
Finally the Asian Seafood Pasta is my fave, fresh lobster, clams, crab and shrimp, in a tomato sauce with fresh ginger, Chinese black beans, fresh mint, cilantro and basil over Pappardelle egg noodles, so good. Its surprising how light and fresh this pasta dish is.
For dessert we tried the Caramel Miranda, which is melted dark chocolate and caramel sauce covered plate with broiled fruit and vanilla Macadamia ice cream.So simple but such a great combination, my idea of a fruit plate:)
So basically this is a fabulous place to try, they do breakfast as well, which we will try next time. If you are lucky enough to be in Maui then try Mala, they aslo have another location in Lahaina which is west of the island.....
Natasha:)
We were actually there for the first time to have our wedding reception dinner tasting....it was fabulous, so i have tasted a lot of the menu. Everything is so fresh, lots of seafood choices. If you are into oysters i highly recommend an oyster shooter or two....they come fresh shucked with Hood Canal oysters, Ponzu ( a citrus soy sauce), Tobiko Caviar, Wasabi and chives. This is the most entertaining and flavourful mouthful. I can not wait to have a few more of those.
Chef Mark Ellman owns the original Mala, as well as Maui Tacos. He has a few partners in this second location. Chef strives on fresh, local and organic. Together Chef Mark and his team have created a Mediterranean and Pacific Rim cuisine.
Try the whole wok fried fish! its so cool when it comes out, they aren't joking when they say whole fish. Its cooked in fresh ginger, garlic and black bean sauce and comes with your choice of Molokai sweet potatoes or three grain brown rice and they will make it as mild or spicy as you wish.
The Hoisin Glazed ribs are delicious, perfect combination of sweet and savoury.
Crispy Coconut shrimp, Ahi tuna or Lamb pita with a very tasty Raita garlic ailoi.
Finally the Asian Seafood Pasta is my fave, fresh lobster, clams, crab and shrimp, in a tomato sauce with fresh ginger, Chinese black beans, fresh mint, cilantro and basil over Pappardelle egg noodles, so good. Its surprising how light and fresh this pasta dish is.
For dessert we tried the Caramel Miranda, which is melted dark chocolate and caramel sauce covered plate with broiled fruit and vanilla Macadamia ice cream.So simple but such a great combination, my idea of a fruit plate:)
So basically this is a fabulous place to try, they do breakfast as well, which we will try next time. If you are lucky enough to be in Maui then try Mala, they aslo have another location in Lahaina which is west of the island.....
Natasha:)
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