FoxCafe : South Beach Miami Florida
Walking down Ocean after a relaxing afternoon at the beach and looking for good place to have a great dinner, where to go? Dressed casually we walked a few blocks being stopped several times by attractive women holding menus, spouting off discounts and two for one drink specials. Finally towards the end of the jaunt we stop to take a peak at a restaurants menu as they did not seem pushy or like the rest trying to lour us in with cheap antics. The manager, we assume, explains the two for 1 drink special and we look at the menu. SJ and I having decided we would try to eat more fish decided to review the options available for seafood, this place seemed to have some good options available so we decide to stay for dinner. Our waiter, a young argentian man drops by to explain the drink special and how it works.
Let me take a moment to explain a few things,
1) The drink special is per person, so unless you are looking to drink two HUGE drinks, don't be fooled...however, you can take them to go. SJ and I figured we would just consume them and people watch, so it wasn't a big deal for us...
2) Prices were not on the drink menu, now this seemed a bit sketchy for us, as it seemed almost as if the prices for the drinks we negotiable depending on how liquid your finances seemed, and in fact, we did get two prices, at first the cost was $22, then $19 as our waiter explained he had made a mistake.
3) The waiter never mentioned the cost of the specials, just what they were, and how they were prepared. SO BEWARE, DO NOT BLINDLY ORDER without first knowing the cost of what you are getting, for both drinks and meals.... The Internet is full of comments from people who visited restaurants on South Beach and felt they got scammed...SO ALWAYS ASK.
Having travelled around a lot we tend to notice when to be cautious, so SJ and I made sure to enquire the cost prior to ordering anything..Tip 1) if a restaurant tells you the specials but doesn't mention the price, ASK.
I digress, having decided we would step outside of our comfort zones and continue to try to fish entrées we explain to our waiter that we are not, by any means, fish lovers, and if he could suggest a light fish to eat. He recommended the Chilean Sea Bass and the Red Snapper both of which we order. The Chilean Sea Bass was light and tasted amazing. With the consistency of scallops, this fish was buttery and smooth to eat. The portion adequate, not big nor small, a good size in my opinion, and was accompanied with a few mussels and shrimp. The Red Snapper, accompanied with a coconut cream shrimp sauce, was equally impressive. The sauce for the most part was not overpowering and came with several shrimp. The Red Snapper however had a slight fish like taste on the ends of the fillet, however, still very appetizing as the sauce offset what little fish taste there was... All in all two very good choices by our waiter.
After having devoured our dishes and the two GINOURMOUS drinks we were ready to leave, the atmosphere was good, the dinner excellent and the service great. So upon requesting our bill the waiter dropped by with a drink on the house. Yet another huge drink for us to share...this time it was a drink the waiter thought we would enjoy, called a cia pirinha. This drink was great! The alcohol however, was very present... This having been an equivalent to our 5th drink each we decided to finish it off and stumble back to the hotel.
Now other reviews will say they felt ripped off and scammed. I can't say either of us felt this way. The meal was great, the drinks, being comparable to the size of two for the price of $19 each (so in our opinions the equivalent to two normal sized drinks) the service great and the ambiance superb.
We both would highly recommend visiting this restaurant.
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
12 Restobar - Winnipeg MB
Located at the top of the Radisson hotel in Winnipeg, this restaurant was one of a few options available to us on Christmas Eve. Having searched around for a few places to eat we decided that this, based on reviews, and the menu was probably something we could give a shot.
A few things stuck out as odd as we arrived. First the parking was covered for the Radisson, not enclosed but covered. For those of you who have been to Winnipeg in the winter, you would appreciate an enclosed parkade to a covered one. Needless to say, we dodged the snow drifts that had accumulated in the parkade and found a spot close to the stairs. Then after making our way down the stairs, we noticed that the parkade was not attached to the stairwell, and had to fight the bitter cold to the hotel door. Not a big deal when its warm outside or when not in the middle of a blizzard, but just odd that they wouldn't have a enclosed or attached parkade. Arriving at the front desk we were instructed to take the elevators up to the 12th floor to the restaurant.
Service started off rather quickly as we were only the second of two tables currently seated in the restaurant, and the waitress took our drink orders right away. Now, I haven't really commented on the ambiance of the place thus far, mainly because the name gave it a more elegant feel than the restaurant yielded. With a bar directly located to your left when you walk in and a gaming lounge sharing the space of the restaurant, this place just didn't live up to the image in my mind. Ordering our usual drinks we scanned the menu and decided to order Ravioli bites ($9), and Wonton Prawns ($9) to start, and Spaghetti and Meatballs ($14) and Lobster Ravioli ($19) for entrees.
By now another couple had arrived and been seated, and had been provided bread at their table. Noticing this, and being a bread lover and hungry, I asked our waitress if we too could get some bread, only to be notified that it was an additional cost for us as we had ordered the pasta entrees, which didn't come with complimentary bread. Now I'm not sure that telling a customer who has just ordered two main courses, two appetizer dishes, and a round of drinks, that they have to pay extra for bread is the smartest move. I can understand if we were only having drinks and salad or soup, but really...come on. Needless to say, we declined and waited for our appetizers to arrive.
Onto the food. The Ravioli bites were presented well and looked tasty enough...which isn't that difficult to do. I mean, really, there isn't a whole lot you can do wrong with this dish. But they managed to do it poorly. The marinara sauce that accompanied the bites was horribly bland and barely warmed, so we were left to eat them without, leaving them dry and chewy...something I could definitely do at home better. The Wonton Prawns, based on the description was the most interesting appetizer on the menu. SJ and I were curious how the establishment could deep fry prawns with tempura AND wonton? Did they roll them in tempura then wrap it inside the wonton? Was it diced and mixed with something then stuffed into the wontons? Well to our surprise, the Prawns were indeed deep fried in tempura, and had absolutely nothing to do with the wonton...which was only on the plate as a garnish to hold the aioli dip. How strange is it that a restaurant would call a dish Wonton Prawns (on the dish title in the menu) and the only wonton was one holding the aioli sauce! Really, really strange...
Entrees...again, weird....Two entirely different dish sizes arrived. The Lobster Ravioli that came had a maximum of 8 pieces, which were all undercooked, leaving SJ with a few good bites around the edges of the ravioli. My entree however, the Spaghetti and Meatball dish, was ridiculously enormous! I ate maybe 1/3 of it and passed as much as I could to SJ to eat. The meatballs were unseasoned and bland, and although an option was given on the menu to get Bison meatballs, I decided to get regular. Not sure if the Bison would have been any better, but the regular meatballs, as enormous as they were, were tasteless and a complete waste of food in my opinion.
So finally, after 4 failed dishes and two double drinks we decided to cut our losses and go back to our hotel. Flagging down our waitress for the bill, we asked if the parking would be validated. Our waitress, either new to the country or new to the establishment had to run back and forth a few times to find out. When she returned she gave us instructions on how to pay for the parking, not whether or not it was validated. On our way out we confirmed with the bartender that the parking was indeed not validated with our meal.
For an establishment looking to get patrons, this place has a long way to go. May I suggest you do several things. Get rid of the VLT's. Nothing says "class" like the constant sound of slot machines during dinner. If you are so hooked on the revenue they bring, then just turn the place into a lounge with a small menu. Perhaps offer bread to everyone...really what does it cost you to provide it? Have a little better quality control on the food and portions, and take "Wonton" off the menu...it's completely misleading as far as I am concerned. And validate the parking. If you want people to come, then for god's sake cover the $3 parking charge. Not doing so makes you look cheap and unappreciative of people who come to your establishment from somewhere other than the Radisson. The sad thing is that the view is pretty nice, and this place could have so much ambiance. In a city that doesn't have a whole lot of high end fine dining options (other than steak houses), this place could have been a real hidden gem.
We will not be returning, nor would ever recommend it to anyone looking for a good meal. If you happen to be staying at the Radisson, walk to the street, catch a taxi, and go somewhere else. Based on our experience, our bill being $85 plus tip, we should have spent that money elsewhere.
Location Visted: 288 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg Manitoba
Ratings:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: American
Presentation: Average
Price: $25-$40/person
Service: Average
Value: Below Average
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
A few things stuck out as odd as we arrived. First the parking was covered for the Radisson, not enclosed but covered. For those of you who have been to Winnipeg in the winter, you would appreciate an enclosed parkade to a covered one. Needless to say, we dodged the snow drifts that had accumulated in the parkade and found a spot close to the stairs. Then after making our way down the stairs, we noticed that the parkade was not attached to the stairwell, and had to fight the bitter cold to the hotel door. Not a big deal when its warm outside or when not in the middle of a blizzard, but just odd that they wouldn't have a enclosed or attached parkade. Arriving at the front desk we were instructed to take the elevators up to the 12th floor to the restaurant.
Service started off rather quickly as we were only the second of two tables currently seated in the restaurant, and the waitress took our drink orders right away. Now, I haven't really commented on the ambiance of the place thus far, mainly because the name gave it a more elegant feel than the restaurant yielded. With a bar directly located to your left when you walk in and a gaming lounge sharing the space of the restaurant, this place just didn't live up to the image in my mind. Ordering our usual drinks we scanned the menu and decided to order Ravioli bites ($9), and Wonton Prawns ($9) to start, and Spaghetti and Meatballs ($14) and Lobster Ravioli ($19) for entrees.
By now another couple had arrived and been seated, and had been provided bread at their table. Noticing this, and being a bread lover and hungry, I asked our waitress if we too could get some bread, only to be notified that it was an additional cost for us as we had ordered the pasta entrees, which didn't come with complimentary bread. Now I'm not sure that telling a customer who has just ordered two main courses, two appetizer dishes, and a round of drinks, that they have to pay extra for bread is the smartest move. I can understand if we were only having drinks and salad or soup, but really...come on. Needless to say, we declined and waited for our appetizers to arrive.
Onto the food. The Ravioli bites were presented well and looked tasty enough...which isn't that difficult to do. I mean, really, there isn't a whole lot you can do wrong with this dish. But they managed to do it poorly. The marinara sauce that accompanied the bites was horribly bland and barely warmed, so we were left to eat them without, leaving them dry and chewy...something I could definitely do at home better. The Wonton Prawns, based on the description was the most interesting appetizer on the menu. SJ and I were curious how the establishment could deep fry prawns with tempura AND wonton? Did they roll them in tempura then wrap it inside the wonton? Was it diced and mixed with something then stuffed into the wontons? Well to our surprise, the Prawns were indeed deep fried in tempura, and had absolutely nothing to do with the wonton...which was only on the plate as a garnish to hold the aioli dip. How strange is it that a restaurant would call a dish Wonton Prawns (on the dish title in the menu) and the only wonton was one holding the aioli sauce! Really, really strange...
Entrees...again, weird....Two entirely different dish sizes arrived. The Lobster Ravioli that came had a maximum of 8 pieces, which were all undercooked, leaving SJ with a few good bites around the edges of the ravioli. My entree however, the Spaghetti and Meatball dish, was ridiculously enormous! I ate maybe 1/3 of it and passed as much as I could to SJ to eat. The meatballs were unseasoned and bland, and although an option was given on the menu to get Bison meatballs, I decided to get regular. Not sure if the Bison would have been any better, but the regular meatballs, as enormous as they were, were tasteless and a complete waste of food in my opinion.
So finally, after 4 failed dishes and two double drinks we decided to cut our losses and go back to our hotel. Flagging down our waitress for the bill, we asked if the parking would be validated. Our waitress, either new to the country or new to the establishment had to run back and forth a few times to find out. When she returned she gave us instructions on how to pay for the parking, not whether or not it was validated. On our way out we confirmed with the bartender that the parking was indeed not validated with our meal.
For an establishment looking to get patrons, this place has a long way to go. May I suggest you do several things. Get rid of the VLT's. Nothing says "class" like the constant sound of slot machines during dinner. If you are so hooked on the revenue they bring, then just turn the place into a lounge with a small menu. Perhaps offer bread to everyone...really what does it cost you to provide it? Have a little better quality control on the food and portions, and take "Wonton" off the menu...it's completely misleading as far as I am concerned. And validate the parking. If you want people to come, then for god's sake cover the $3 parking charge. Not doing so makes you look cheap and unappreciative of people who come to your establishment from somewhere other than the Radisson. The sad thing is that the view is pretty nice, and this place could have so much ambiance. In a city that doesn't have a whole lot of high end fine dining options (other than steak houses), this place could have been a real hidden gem.
We will not be returning, nor would ever recommend it to anyone looking for a good meal. If you happen to be staying at the Radisson, walk to the street, catch a taxi, and go somewhere else. Based on our experience, our bill being $85 plus tip, we should have spent that money elsewhere.
Location Visted: 288 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg Manitoba
Ratings:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: American
Presentation: Average
Price: $25-$40/person
Service: Average
Value: Below Average
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Kansas City BBQ
Ahh, the great Kansas City BBQ debate. Before we weigh in with our humble opinion, please let me explain that from September to January, KC is kind of like a second home for me, and recently for SC as well. See, we are season ticket holders for the Kansas City Chiefs. While it may seem odd that two people who live over 1600 KM's (1000 miles for those of our US friends) from KC would be season ticket holders...not to mention the abysmal showing the team has had over the last few years...anyone who has ever been to an NFL game understands the allure of the tailgate party. And nowhere in the United States can you find a better tailgating experience than in Kansas City. For the uninitiated, think of tailgating as a big block party with about 80,000 other people. Everyone brings their favorite food, set up grills in behind their cars, and eats and drinks to excess for about 4 hours. Usually starting at 8:00 am on a Sunday morning. It's all about community, fun, and fan frenzy, and I've seen people towing smokers the size of a small vehicle behind trucks, school busses converted to mobile party machines, and even a dude deep frying a turkey one chilly thanksgiving morning. So to understand the importance of BBQ in Kansas City, you need to understand how revered it is in their culture...and tailgating is a great indication. I've been to several other NFL stadiums, and never had an experience that was even close to KC. For example, in Miami one year, I watched rows and rows of people eating picnic style sandwiches (slightly lame and dainty if you ask me) before the game, while up the road in Jacksonville, the parking lot was almost completely empty 2 hours before game time.
For those of you who may think that BBQ is simply setting up your grill in the back yard and throwing some marinated meat onto it, that is NOT what I am talking about here. It's also not that crap that you get in restaurants (the further you get away from Mecca, the worse it is) where some rapidly cooked slab of ribs is drenched in overpowering BBQ sauce. No, true Kansas City BBQ is about time. And patience. It's a craft, a skill, an art, and a science. The meat is smoked over a variety of different aromatic types of wood...slowly...often 12 hours plus, and then accented with different styles of often award winning BBQ sauces. When it is done, the smoked flavour is simply infused into the meat, so you need less sauce to truly enjoy the taste. Likely any kind of meat could be BBQ'd, but the usual fare is pulled pork, pork ribs, smoked sausage, beef brisket, beef ribs, smoked/grilled chicken, smoked turkey and the ever famous burnt ends. Burnt ends, are essentially the end bits of a brisket that has been smoked, and they are usually returned back to the smoker for a longer period of time before being served. It's a bit of a misnomer, as they actually aren't burnt to any degree, but I promise you, a more tender bit of beef will never cross your lips.
The BBQ restaurants in KC range from commercial localized chains, to shacks in some guys backyard. For this review, I have focussed on three of them. This is not to say that there aren't better ones than I have listed here, but these are three of the more popular ones. For our Kansas City readers, I would love for you to chime in on this blog so we can review some other, perhaps lesser known places.
First up is Arthur Bryant's. One of, if not the oldest BBQ restaurants in KC, Arthur Bryant's has a very distinctive old school ambiance and menu. While you can buy meat by the pound, the menu is predominantly sandwiches and sides. We visited the original location on Brooklyn avenue, and after enduring a very long lineup, we were shuffled to the front of the line. While our hearts were set on the pulled pork sandwich, the guy taking our order would have non of it, suggesting...ok, insisting...that we take the two meat sandwich instead. So we each chose pulled pork and ham and shuffled ahead to pay. The sandwich essentially was a piece of Wonder bread (do they still even make that stuff??) with a very decent portion of ham and pulled pork, slathered in very tangy BBQ sauce, covered with another piece of Wonder bread, then drenched in more sauce. The meat was very tender, but in my opinion, I have to confess this was my least favorite meal at a KC BBQ restaurant. I found that it had too much sauce, to the point that it completely overpowered the taste of the meat. Perhaps it was an off day for the sauce guy, but I think there are better places to explore.
Next is BB's Lawnside BBQ. The first time I entered into this joint...can't really call it anything but a "joint", I was a little skeptical. Imagine a roadhouse, but with the walls completely papered in ads for blues concerts in days gone by. But looks can be very deceiving. Seating is either at one of the semi broken down booths, or side by side with the other patrons at long tables...which actually adds to the charm of this place. But BB's isn't just about the food. Every night...or at least every night I have been there, BB's has had live blues music. Sometimes old school, sometimes new, but always smokin hot. They usually charge a small cover (well worth it), and the food is outstanding. They have a plate you can order called the BB King, but beware, you better have a serious appetite. The first time I ordered it, I was thinking to myself that it was only $16, so how much food could it possibly be? Well my friends, that night, for the first time in my life, I got drunk on meat. The BB King is a mound of carnivore delight with four ribs, Italian sausage and either beef, ham, turkey or pulled pork, as well as battered fries and some beans. The sausage is amazing, the brisket tender and flavorful, the pulled pork is out of this world, and the ham, while a tad on the salty side at times, is the single juiciest and tenderest bit of meat I have ever had. Overall, great value for your dollar, great ambiance, and great entertainment.
Finally we come to Oklahoma Joe's. This restaurant has probably won the most awards in Kansas City. With two locations, one of which is in a gas station...yes, I said a gas station...this place is to KC BBQ, what Geno's is to Philly Cheese Steaks. Anthony Bourdain, well known for his Food Network show "No Reservations", selected Oklahoma Joe's as one of 13 places to eat before you die in a Men's Health Magazine article. In it, he says "People may disagree on who has the best barbecue," he writes. "Here, the brisket (particularly the burnt ends), pulled pork, and ribs are all of a quality that meet the high standards even of Kansas City natives. It's the best barbecue in Kansas City, which makes it the best barbecue in the world." Very hard to argue with that once you've eaten there, and the only thing I would add, is that the turkey is the most flavorful meat I've ever had the pleasure of eating. For me, the smoke infused taste epitomizes the whole Kansas City BBQ style of cooking. The only criticism I could possibly muster, is that the portions aren't quite as plentiful as some other places.
So for pure taste, it has to be Oklahoma Joe's for my choice. However, for best food value and entertainment, BB's is a damn close second place. Regardless, both are restaurants on our must eat at list every time we go to KC.
Locations Visited:
Arthur Bryants:1727 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, MO
BBs Lawnside BBQ: 1205 E. 85th Street Kansas City, MO
Oklahoma Joe's: 11950 South Strang Line Road, Olathe, Kansas
Ratings:
Arthur Bryants:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: BBQ
Presentation: Average
Price: $9/serving
Service: Average
Value: Average
BB's Lawnside BBQ:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: BBQ
Presentation: Average
Price: $9/serving
Service: Good
Value: Excellent
Oklahoma Joe's:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: BBQ
Presentation: Average
Price: $9/serving
Service: Average
Value: Good
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
For those of you who may think that BBQ is simply setting up your grill in the back yard and throwing some marinated meat onto it, that is NOT what I am talking about here. It's also not that crap that you get in restaurants (the further you get away from Mecca, the worse it is) where some rapidly cooked slab of ribs is drenched in overpowering BBQ sauce. No, true Kansas City BBQ is about time. And patience. It's a craft, a skill, an art, and a science. The meat is smoked over a variety of different aromatic types of wood...slowly...often 12 hours plus, and then accented with different styles of often award winning BBQ sauces. When it is done, the smoked flavour is simply infused into the meat, so you need less sauce to truly enjoy the taste. Likely any kind of meat could be BBQ'd, but the usual fare is pulled pork, pork ribs, smoked sausage, beef brisket, beef ribs, smoked/grilled chicken, smoked turkey and the ever famous burnt ends. Burnt ends, are essentially the end bits of a brisket that has been smoked, and they are usually returned back to the smoker for a longer period of time before being served. It's a bit of a misnomer, as they actually aren't burnt to any degree, but I promise you, a more tender bit of beef will never cross your lips.
The BBQ restaurants in KC range from commercial localized chains, to shacks in some guys backyard. For this review, I have focussed on three of them. This is not to say that there aren't better ones than I have listed here, but these are three of the more popular ones. For our Kansas City readers, I would love for you to chime in on this blog so we can review some other, perhaps lesser known places.
First up is Arthur Bryant's. One of, if not the oldest BBQ restaurants in KC, Arthur Bryant's has a very distinctive old school ambiance and menu. While you can buy meat by the pound, the menu is predominantly sandwiches and sides. We visited the original location on Brooklyn avenue, and after enduring a very long lineup, we were shuffled to the front of the line. While our hearts were set on the pulled pork sandwich, the guy taking our order would have non of it, suggesting...ok, insisting...that we take the two meat sandwich instead. So we each chose pulled pork and ham and shuffled ahead to pay. The sandwich essentially was a piece of Wonder bread (do they still even make that stuff??) with a very decent portion of ham and pulled pork, slathered in very tangy BBQ sauce, covered with another piece of Wonder bread, then drenched in more sauce. The meat was very tender, but in my opinion, I have to confess this was my least favorite meal at a KC BBQ restaurant. I found that it had too much sauce, to the point that it completely overpowered the taste of the meat. Perhaps it was an off day for the sauce guy, but I think there are better places to explore.
Next is BB's Lawnside BBQ. The first time I entered into this joint...can't really call it anything but a "joint", I was a little skeptical. Imagine a roadhouse, but with the walls completely papered in ads for blues concerts in days gone by. But looks can be very deceiving. Seating is either at one of the semi broken down booths, or side by side with the other patrons at long tables...which actually adds to the charm of this place. But BB's isn't just about the food. Every night...or at least every night I have been there, BB's has had live blues music. Sometimes old school, sometimes new, but always smokin hot. They usually charge a small cover (well worth it), and the food is outstanding. They have a plate you can order called the BB King, but beware, you better have a serious appetite. The first time I ordered it, I was thinking to myself that it was only $16, so how much food could it possibly be? Well my friends, that night, for the first time in my life, I got drunk on meat. The BB King is a mound of carnivore delight with four ribs, Italian sausage and either beef, ham, turkey or pulled pork, as well as battered fries and some beans. The sausage is amazing, the brisket tender and flavorful, the pulled pork is out of this world, and the ham, while a tad on the salty side at times, is the single juiciest and tenderest bit of meat I have ever had. Overall, great value for your dollar, great ambiance, and great entertainment.
Finally we come to Oklahoma Joe's. This restaurant has probably won the most awards in Kansas City. With two locations, one of which is in a gas station...yes, I said a gas station...this place is to KC BBQ, what Geno's is to Philly Cheese Steaks. Anthony Bourdain, well known for his Food Network show "No Reservations", selected Oklahoma Joe's as one of 13 places to eat before you die in a Men's Health Magazine article. In it, he says "People may disagree on who has the best barbecue," he writes. "Here, the brisket (particularly the burnt ends), pulled pork, and ribs are all of a quality that meet the high standards even of Kansas City natives. It's the best barbecue in Kansas City, which makes it the best barbecue in the world." Very hard to argue with that once you've eaten there, and the only thing I would add, is that the turkey is the most flavorful meat I've ever had the pleasure of eating. For me, the smoke infused taste epitomizes the whole Kansas City BBQ style of cooking. The only criticism I could possibly muster, is that the portions aren't quite as plentiful as some other places.
So for pure taste, it has to be Oklahoma Joe's for my choice. However, for best food value and entertainment, BB's is a damn close second place. Regardless, both are restaurants on our must eat at list every time we go to KC.
Locations Visited:
Arthur Bryants:1727 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, MO
BBs Lawnside BBQ: 1205 E. 85th Street Kansas City, MO
Oklahoma Joe's: 11950 South Strang Line Road, Olathe, Kansas
Ratings:
Arthur Bryants:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: BBQ
Presentation: Average
Price: $9/serving
Service: Average
Value: Average
BB's Lawnside BBQ:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: BBQ
Presentation: Average
Price: $9/serving
Service: Good
Value: Excellent
Oklahoma Joe's:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: BBQ
Presentation: Average
Price: $9/serving
Service: Average
Value: Good
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Cafe de Ville : Edmonton
After a long day, and hungry for a unique dining experience, we settle on the Cafe de Ville. This restaurant on the Edmonton downtown fringe is likely pretty easy to miss, but should not be passed up. The decor is rather unique and difficult to classify...sort of a bistro with a distinct European flair.
Can be very intimate in the right area of the restaurant, and the staff is very polite, very unassuming, and between them and the music, almost give the place a bohemian sort of ambiance. Absolutely not pretentious in any way.
We departed a tad from our usual drinks...as we do when we see unique eye catching cocktails...and order the DeVille Island Iced Tea and Frontera Sangria. Both were delicious and a pretty good value for $9, as they were thankfully not filled to the brim with ice.
Instead of bread being brought out to start, we were brought the single greatest mini croissants. Completely unique and unbelievably good, these pastries were glazed on the bottom with honey, and dusted on the top with poppyseed. I cannot say enough about how great these tasted. We ordered a dozen to take home, and while not nearly as good the second day, they were still pretty tasty.
SJ decided to go for the escargot as an appie, while I went with the coquille...a jumbo scallop wrapped in duck prosciutto. Understanding that escargot is somewhat of an acquired taste, these were served in a slightly different way than has been done traditionally. Typically you will find that the escargot are hidden underneath a mushroom cap, and drenched in butter and garlic. And while they are usually pretty good that way, these came with portabello mushroom, various cheeses and a balsamic vinegar, all mixed together that made for a very delightful taste. The scallops that I had were extremely tender, and the duck promiscuity added just the right touch.
For our main course, SJ, on suggestion from the waiter, ordered the lamb, while I went with my usual chicken route. Now it is worth mentioning that neither of us are Lamb fans so this next statement means ALOT. It is impossible to have done the lamb any better. It was possibly the tenderest and juiciest piece of meat that either of us have ever tasted. The combination of pesto, dijon, junipers and chutney provided the ultimate blend of complimentary tastes that made this the perfect meal. My chicken was also prepared perfectly. It came stuffed with wild boar bacon, sun-dried tomato, feta, roasted garlic, spinach, and a touch of amaretto. Furthermore, it was so good I even ate the skin and I never, ever eat chicken skin. However, this time, the skin was crispy and juicy, and did not have the texture of skin...I was very surprised and impressed.
Although completely stuffed, we both felt compelled to order dessert. SJ had the mocha creme brulee, and I chose the chocolate mousse. They were both done quite well, but frankly after being somewhat jaded by the perfection of the lamb, they were both a slight letdown. At any other restaurant however, they would have both been excellent. We can chalk it up to being victims of the the rest of the meal setting the bar so high I suppose.
Overall, a near perfect dining experience. Excellent service and an extraordinary meal make this place an absolute must if you are in Edmonton.
Location visited: 10137 124 Street NW
Ratings:
Ambiance: High end Bistro
Cuisine: International
Presentation: Excellent
Price: $35/serving
Service: Excellent
Value: Excellent
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Can be very intimate in the right area of the restaurant, and the staff is very polite, very unassuming, and between them and the music, almost give the place a bohemian sort of ambiance. Absolutely not pretentious in any way.
We departed a tad from our usual drinks...as we do when we see unique eye catching cocktails...and order the DeVille Island Iced Tea and Frontera Sangria. Both were delicious and a pretty good value for $9, as they were thankfully not filled to the brim with ice.
Instead of bread being brought out to start, we were brought the single greatest mini croissants. Completely unique and unbelievably good, these pastries were glazed on the bottom with honey, and dusted on the top with poppyseed. I cannot say enough about how great these tasted. We ordered a dozen to take home, and while not nearly as good the second day, they were still pretty tasty.
SJ decided to go for the escargot as an appie, while I went with the coquille...a jumbo scallop wrapped in duck prosciutto. Understanding that escargot is somewhat of an acquired taste, these were served in a slightly different way than has been done traditionally. Typically you will find that the escargot are hidden underneath a mushroom cap, and drenched in butter and garlic. And while they are usually pretty good that way, these came with portabello mushroom, various cheeses and a balsamic vinegar, all mixed together that made for a very delightful taste. The scallops that I had were extremely tender, and the duck promiscuity added just the right touch.
For our main course, SJ, on suggestion from the waiter, ordered the lamb, while I went with my usual chicken route. Now it is worth mentioning that neither of us are Lamb fans so this next statement means ALOT. It is impossible to have done the lamb any better. It was possibly the tenderest and juiciest piece of meat that either of us have ever tasted. The combination of pesto, dijon, junipers and chutney provided the ultimate blend of complimentary tastes that made this the perfect meal. My chicken was also prepared perfectly. It came stuffed with wild boar bacon, sun-dried tomato, feta, roasted garlic, spinach, and a touch of amaretto. Furthermore, it was so good I even ate the skin and I never, ever eat chicken skin. However, this time, the skin was crispy and juicy, and did not have the texture of skin...I was very surprised and impressed.
Although completely stuffed, we both felt compelled to order dessert. SJ had the mocha creme brulee, and I chose the chocolate mousse. They were both done quite well, but frankly after being somewhat jaded by the perfection of the lamb, they were both a slight letdown. At any other restaurant however, they would have both been excellent. We can chalk it up to being victims of the the rest of the meal setting the bar so high I suppose.
Overall, a near perfect dining experience. Excellent service and an extraordinary meal make this place an absolute must if you are in Edmonton.
Location visited: 10137 124 Street NW
Ratings:
Ambiance: High end Bistro
Cuisine: International
Presentation: Excellent
Price: $35/serving
Service: Excellent
Value: Excellent
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Rosies in the Park: Sherwood Park AB
Breakfast with a friend on a beautiful Sunday morning. We have heard a few good things about Rosies in the Park, a little neighborhood diner in Sherwood Park (close to Edmonton). The place is about 3/4 full when we get there...roughly 11am Ambiance is nice, kind of a little bistro with a cute "homey" feel.
Seated pretty much right away, we are offered coffee, but decide on juice instead (I am SUCH a coffee snob). As they serve all day breakfast, we all decide to order from that part of the menu. I order the Rosies omelet, essentially a ham and cheese omelet with hollandaise sauce on it. SC takes the Ukrainian breakfast special, which is 2 eggs served over 5 perogies, then topped with cheddar and green onions and served with a piece of farmer sausage. SC chooses to have her perogies boiled instead of deep fried - I of course would have chosen the latter.
Perogies were bland, eggs overcooked, but the sausage was really good.
Omelet was really overcooked...actually fried. Not too bad on the fillings, and the hollandaise sauce, even though it was clearly not homemade, was probably pretty good...but greatly overshadowed by the crispy fried egg taste of the omelet.
Service was average...although we had to ask for water a few times, and wait a bit before getting it, but it was somewhat busy when we got there, so it was understandable I suppose.
All in all, nothing special or outstanding compared to a chain restaurant's breakfast. Nothing to brag about and a place we wouldn't return to unless we had to.
Location visited:114 Athabascan Avenue, Sherwood Park
Ratings:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: Breakfast
Presentation: Average
Price: $15/serving
Value: Below Average
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Seated pretty much right away, we are offered coffee, but decide on juice instead (I am SUCH a coffee snob). As they serve all day breakfast, we all decide to order from that part of the menu. I order the Rosies omelet, essentially a ham and cheese omelet with hollandaise sauce on it. SC takes the Ukrainian breakfast special, which is 2 eggs served over 5 perogies, then topped with cheddar and green onions and served with a piece of farmer sausage. SC chooses to have her perogies boiled instead of deep fried - I of course would have chosen the latter.
Perogies were bland, eggs overcooked, but the sausage was really good.
Omelet was really overcooked...actually fried. Not too bad on the fillings, and the hollandaise sauce, even though it was clearly not homemade, was probably pretty good...but greatly overshadowed by the crispy fried egg taste of the omelet.
Service was average...although we had to ask for water a few times, and wait a bit before getting it, but it was somewhat busy when we got there, so it was understandable I suppose.
All in all, nothing special or outstanding compared to a chain restaurant's breakfast. Nothing to brag about and a place we wouldn't return to unless we had to.
Location visited:114 Athabascan Avenue, Sherwood Park
Ratings:
Ambiance: Casual
Cuisine: Breakfast
Presentation: Average
Price: $15/serving
Value: Below Average
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Copper Chimney: Vancouver BC
8 pm on Wednesday and I am in need of a drink and something to fill my stomach, attached to my hotel is the Copper Chimney. Looking for a simple easy place to eat and grab a few drinks I decide to check it out. Now I have to admit, it never crossed my mind that this restaurant was an Indian fushion restaurant, I always pictured it as a pub that served pub fair... Even when I lived in Vancouver I always associated the outside with a pub...weird as I was oh so wrong.
Walking in your attention is immediately drawn to the plush hard wood floors, the dark wooden tables eloquently set with white napkins, the open foyer with a beauiftul chandellier which just screamed a quiet elegance. A bar located to the far right backs up onto the staircase leading to the second floor dining area providing a beautiful view of the floor beneath and the stained glass windows. The main floor is overlooked by another beautiful chandelier which provided a soft glow to the room entire room.
Dining on my own, my hostess asked where I would like to sit, The place was rather quiet but for a few tables scattered around, and I decide that a table off to the corner would do the trick. Ordering my usual drink, my waitress (who I later discover is a co-owner brought it by). Now I know I have mentioned this before... I love butter chicken...so having seen it on the menu I enquire with the waitress if it was good, as many other entrees caught my eye and I was struggling internally on whether I wanted my comfort food, or to try something different.
Her reply sold me on the butter chicken, stating it was "a feast and would surely love it". Returing with some bread and butter I decided to go with her suggestion and ordered the butter chicken. The ambiance was warm, the waitress very friendly and I couldn't help but feel comfortable here. My drinks were prefectly mixed and my food arrived within 10 mins of ordering it.
The dish was presented rather nicely with a small copper pot of butter chicken, a bed of rice and grilled vegetables on the side. A very generous size if I may say, so she had the feast part right! The butter chicken boasted large chunks of chicken breast in a tomato based sauce...not very spicy, however, be warned it was a spice that could sneak up on the person who has not experienced spicy food... The vegetables were grilled and cooked perfectly, not at all overcooked leaving a small yet tender crunch. The rice and nan were good portions flavourful and also cooked just right.
After polishing off a few drinks, having a nice chat with my waitress and finishing, yes finishing dinner...I retired to my room. Although they dont accept interact, you can bill it to your room or use credit card. This Indian fushion restaurant was a great find....my waitress very friendly and attentive. I found out during a conversation with her that she co-owns the restaurant with her husband, and it had been here for 7 years. My experience here was exceptional, I would highly recommend it to anyone and will return again during my travels. They have it right, just the perfect amount of Indian and fusion which creates an enjoyable dining experience.
Location visted: 567 Hornby St
Ratings:
Ambiance: Upscale Casual
Cuisine: Indian Fushion
Presentation: Above Average
Price: $30/serving
Value: Above Average
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Walking in your attention is immediately drawn to the plush hard wood floors, the dark wooden tables eloquently set with white napkins, the open foyer with a beauiftul chandellier which just screamed a quiet elegance. A bar located to the far right backs up onto the staircase leading to the second floor dining area providing a beautiful view of the floor beneath and the stained glass windows. The main floor is overlooked by another beautiful chandelier which provided a soft glow to the room entire room.
Dining on my own, my hostess asked where I would like to sit, The place was rather quiet but for a few tables scattered around, and I decide that a table off to the corner would do the trick. Ordering my usual drink, my waitress (who I later discover is a co-owner brought it by). Now I know I have mentioned this before... I love butter chicken...so having seen it on the menu I enquire with the waitress if it was good, as many other entrees caught my eye and I was struggling internally on whether I wanted my comfort food, or to try something different.
Her reply sold me on the butter chicken, stating it was "a feast and would surely love it". Returing with some bread and butter I decided to go with her suggestion and ordered the butter chicken. The ambiance was warm, the waitress very friendly and I couldn't help but feel comfortable here. My drinks were prefectly mixed and my food arrived within 10 mins of ordering it.
The dish was presented rather nicely with a small copper pot of butter chicken, a bed of rice and grilled vegetables on the side. A very generous size if I may say, so she had the feast part right! The butter chicken boasted large chunks of chicken breast in a tomato based sauce...not very spicy, however, be warned it was a spice that could sneak up on the person who has not experienced spicy food... The vegetables were grilled and cooked perfectly, not at all overcooked leaving a small yet tender crunch. The rice and nan were good portions flavourful and also cooked just right.
After polishing off a few drinks, having a nice chat with my waitress and finishing, yes finishing dinner...I retired to my room. Although they dont accept interact, you can bill it to your room or use credit card. This Indian fushion restaurant was a great find....my waitress very friendly and attentive. I found out during a conversation with her that she co-owns the restaurant with her husband, and it had been here for 7 years. My experience here was exceptional, I would highly recommend it to anyone and will return again during my travels. They have it right, just the perfect amount of Indian and fusion which creates an enjoyable dining experience.
Location visted: 567 Hornby St
Ratings:
Ambiance: Upscale Casual
Cuisine: Indian Fushion
Presentation: Above Average
Price: $30/serving
Value: Above Average
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Characters: Edmonton Alberta
Very funky and upscale restaurant just on the downtown Edmonton outskirts. Slightly concerned about the autographed picture in the entrance of Emeril Lagasse (please read the review on Emeril's South Beach location), but we came with an open mind. We had initially tried to get the rather unique sounding table situated in an elevator shaft, but had to settle for a fireplace table instead. Very comfy chairs, very nice decor, excellent layout and open beam design, with an open kitchen and classy warm accents, but very bad service to start off with.
Brought to and left at our table without so much as a hello, the waiter walked off without taking any drink order, and in fact without even waiting for us to sit down. When I come to a place of this style, I expect that he will pull out the chair for SC, or put our napkins on our laps, or engage us in at least a small bit of welcoming banter.
Returning after a few moments, he took our drink orders, which he brought out very quickly. But still...personality on this dude is totally missing in action. Slightly odd and uncultured demeanor, he didn't really fit the style or feel of the restaurant. Not a judgement, just an observation. In a refined atmosphere such as this restaurant, one would expect to be served by an equally refined waiter. This felt more like service at a small rural family restaurant...only without the warmth and charm.
Anyhow, we decided on Seared Scallops with a Butter Poached Lobster Claw, and a rather unique sounding Prawn Dog, served with a jalapeño relish and wasabi sticks for appies.
For mains, SC chose Beef Tenderloin, which comes with banana potatoes, and a light chili hollandaise, and I selected the Veal Chop with Gruyere spaetzle.
Rather than bread, we were served homemade potato chips and fries, with a black bean aioli that was slightly spicy, and absolutely out of this world!!! Again, where most servers would explain what they were serving, this was just dropped off without a word.
Appetizers here were incredible. The scallops are done to absolute perfection along with the Lobster claw, drizzled with an unnamed sauce (further defined as "mostly butter" by our mono syllabic waiter), and the Prawn dog, done in the style of a hot dog...while difficult to eat without using your hands and looking a tad like a pig...was the perfect blend of flavors.
The Veal Chop...bone in...was a good size, and was cooked a little more on the well done side than I would have preferred, however I wasn't asked so I assume it is only done one way. SC's tenderloin was done way more on the rare side than the medium rare side, but was still quite good...although it could have used a bit more of the chili hollandaise. On that note, not sure why it is referred to in the menu as "hollandaise", as it doesn't resemble a hollandaise sauce in any way. I'm all for creative license, but I think a "light chili glaze" or something to that effect would have sufficed. Both of us could have benefitted from some knives designed more for cutting through the meat, but our waiter...who has now been nicknamed "ninja" hasn't brought anything to that effect.
For dessert, we have our menus dropped off...again, without a word from the ninja...and select the grapefruit and vanilla brûlée, and the banana, kahlua, and pecan bread pudding. Dessert is served, strangely with soup spoons. SC and I switch halfway through as SC is less than impressed with hers. I like both...remarkable as I have a distinct dislike for banana, but the bread pudding is very good in spite of this. The creme brûlée is very good as well, especially considering the infusion of an acid based flavor into an egg and cream based dish.
Overall, I would say this place is well above average, but slightly below our usual experience with restaurants in this style. Right at the end, the waiter warmed up quite a bit (just in time for the tip?) and actually engaged us in conversation, but it was a little strange given the lack of engagement throughout the meal.
Location visited:
Ratings:
Ambiance: Elegant
Cuisine: Contemporary
Presentation: Above Average
Price: $40/serving
Value: Above Average
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
Brought to and left at our table without so much as a hello, the waiter walked off without taking any drink order, and in fact without even waiting for us to sit down. When I come to a place of this style, I expect that he will pull out the chair for SC, or put our napkins on our laps, or engage us in at least a small bit of welcoming banter.
Returning after a few moments, he took our drink orders, which he brought out very quickly. But still...personality on this dude is totally missing in action. Slightly odd and uncultured demeanor, he didn't really fit the style or feel of the restaurant. Not a judgement, just an observation. In a refined atmosphere such as this restaurant, one would expect to be served by an equally refined waiter. This felt more like service at a small rural family restaurant...only without the warmth and charm.
Anyhow, we decided on Seared Scallops with a Butter Poached Lobster Claw, and a rather unique sounding Prawn Dog, served with a jalapeño relish and wasabi sticks for appies.
For mains, SC chose Beef Tenderloin, which comes with banana potatoes, and a light chili hollandaise, and I selected the Veal Chop with Gruyere spaetzle.
Rather than bread, we were served homemade potato chips and fries, with a black bean aioli that was slightly spicy, and absolutely out of this world!!! Again, where most servers would explain what they were serving, this was just dropped off without a word.
Appetizers here were incredible. The scallops are done to absolute perfection along with the Lobster claw, drizzled with an unnamed sauce (further defined as "mostly butter" by our mono syllabic waiter), and the Prawn dog, done in the style of a hot dog...while difficult to eat without using your hands and looking a tad like a pig...was the perfect blend of flavors.
The Veal Chop...bone in...was a good size, and was cooked a little more on the well done side than I would have preferred, however I wasn't asked so I assume it is only done one way. SC's tenderloin was done way more on the rare side than the medium rare side, but was still quite good...although it could have used a bit more of the chili hollandaise. On that note, not sure why it is referred to in the menu as "hollandaise", as it doesn't resemble a hollandaise sauce in any way. I'm all for creative license, but I think a "light chili glaze" or something to that effect would have sufficed. Both of us could have benefitted from some knives designed more for cutting through the meat, but our waiter...who has now been nicknamed "ninja" hasn't brought anything to that effect.
For dessert, we have our menus dropped off...again, without a word from the ninja...and select the grapefruit and vanilla brûlée, and the banana, kahlua, and pecan bread pudding. Dessert is served, strangely with soup spoons. SC and I switch halfway through as SC is less than impressed with hers. I like both...remarkable as I have a distinct dislike for banana, but the bread pudding is very good in spite of this. The creme brûlée is very good as well, especially considering the infusion of an acid based flavor into an egg and cream based dish.
Overall, I would say this place is well above average, but slightly below our usual experience with restaurants in this style. Right at the end, the waiter warmed up quite a bit (just in time for the tip?) and actually engaged us in conversation, but it was a little strange given the lack of engagement throughout the meal.
Location visited:
Ratings:
Ambiance: Elegant
Cuisine: Contemporary
Presentation: Above Average
Price: $40/serving
Value: Above Average
The Meal Truth - Undercover food critics
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