Monday, December 28, 2009

Tin Roof Rusted aka Tarks (Dania)

Clam shack, seafood shack, not sure exactly what it should be called but it's definitely a shack and I love it so I'm going with love shack.  In all seriousness, I suspect Tarks is a love it or hate it type of place.  They have a solid local following and its also the first and last stop for many touristas flying in and out of Hollywood-Ft. Lauderdale International. (rentals/luggage is a dead give away)  But it's certainly not for everyone and I understand where the naysayers are coming from.   It's on the "divey" side and calling it dirty may be somewhat justifiable. 
See full size image


Tarks is a small place with counter service only and probably 20 to 25 seats. (okay there are a couple of tables outside but no service)  The staff is an interesting and entertaining cast of characters and their banter always puts a smile on my face.  It's a diverse crowd, ranging from cougars sporting their rocks and bling bling to blue collar workers escaping the sweltering South Florida heat. The beer is inexpensive and always cold.  The food always hits the spot for me.

 Tarks specializes in clams, oysters, seafood and wings.  (raw, steamed and fried).  My favorites include the gator tail, clam chowder, conch salad, dolphin sandwich, raw oysters, steamed clams, fried clam bellies, and shrimp grilled w/ BBQ or garlic sauce (not like the traditional New Orleans BBQ shrimp but a tasty alternative) Their wings garner rave reviews but they are breaded and on the heavy side and not my thing.  They have reasonably priced daily specials plus a kids menu.

If you are a fan of clam shacks, seafood shacks or love shacks, I would check out Tarks.  

Their motto is "Eat clams live longer, eats oysters love longer"  My wife hopes they're half right....
 
 http://www.tarks.com/

Tarks of Dania Beach on Urbanspoon


The Originators Since 1966!
TKFIN32.jpg
Eat Clams...Live Longer!!! Eat Oysters...Love Longer!

Friday, December 25, 2009

Pizza Pizza Update

I've had the opportunity to return to three fairly new pizza spots over the past two weeks, Racks, Pizzavolante and Sosta.  I tried two pies at each location with one being the basic cheese/sauce (margherita) combo.  My second pie at Sosta was the siciliana - tomato sauce, mozzarella, anchovies, capers, black olives & basil.  Fantastic.  My second pie at Racks was the secchi - sopressata, provolone, fiore di latte  and goat cheese, very good.  My last pie at Volante was the cacciatorini - italian tomato, local mozzarella, grana California pepperoni, and guanciale, outstanding.

All three spots continue to serve very good to great pizza and it's almost impossible to select a favorite out of the three.  The overall taste/flavor of Sosta really reminds me of the pies I grew up on in NY but with a thinner crust.  My only knock on Sosta is that too many options include ham.  If you aren't in the mood for ham, your choices become limited.  Volante always delivers a tasty pie.  Only knock is the inconsistency of the crust.  Some are charred less than others.  The only real issue with Racks is the limited non white pie (I dislike those) options. (4 ala volante)

Again, it's impossible and unnecessary to select a definitive winner out of the three.  All are serving good to great pies and I would recommend visiting each one.  Sosta is underrated and I would call this a draw between Sosta and Volante.

Sosta
1025 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 722-5454
www.sostapizzeria.com/

Sosta Pizzeria on Urbanspoon


Pizzavolante
3918 N. Miami Ave.
Miami FL 33137
305.573.5325
Pizzavolante on Urbanspoon


Racks Italian Bistro and Market
Intracoastal Mall 163rd St and NE 36th Ave
N. Miami Beach, FL
305-917-7225
www.GRRestaurant.com
Racks Italian Bistro on Urbanspoon


Miami Dolphins: Dolphins' Parcells talks at stoplight with homeless man -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com

Nice column by David Hyde today regarding Parcells and a homeless man

Miami Dolphins: Dolphins' Parcells talks at stoplight with homeless man -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com

Posted using ShareThis

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Lupica on Tiger

One more thing on Tiger: If his sponsorship with Accenture was supposed to be such a big deal for it and a crushing loss for it — how come I have no idea after all these years what Accenture DOES?

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Marlins Holiday Deal

I hate to help the Marlins sell tickets since they refuse to increase their payroll despite receiving luxury tax money from the Yankees BUT this is a great deal (26 games/lower level) and a great opportunity to get more children out to the stadium. Click on ad for tickets

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

2009 NFL Suicide Pick Week 15

3 more to go.  

Baltimore, Washington, Minnesota, Indy, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, New England, San Diego, New Orleans, Miami ,Dallas, Atlanta, Cincinnati and Tennessee are off the board.

There are three viable options this week for us.

Arizona heads to St Louis.  Short week for Zona after coming off a loss on Monday night.  They are  5-2 on the road this year and should win this one.

Denver is at home against the Raiders.  It appears that Charlie Frye is starting for the Raiders this week.  Denver rolls.

Seattle returns home to face Tampa.  Tampa has been very good to us this year and I expect that to continue this week.  Seattle is not very good but they are better than Tampa and play well at home.  It's a long trip for Tampa and I'm sure the weather will favor Seattle.

I've made my selections each week without looking down the road.  That said, we are close to the finish line and if we make it to week 17 there will be very slim pickings.  At this juncture, Denver at home against KC is the only real strong play.  Thus, I am going to hold Denver.  I also want to avoid getting caught in the big upset trap a la Pittsburgh the last two weeks.

Thus, the official pick is

X-MAS MENUS

Two of my favorite spots will be open on Christmas and featuring special menus.  Break that Chinese tradition...


Lola's on Harrison

$40.00
FIRST COURSE

Wild mushroom soup
with, arugula, crispy turkey bacon

ENTREE - SERVED FAMILY STYLE

Rock Salt Encrusted Certified Angus Beef Prime Rib
with Au Jus

Maryland Blue Crabmeat Crusted Mahi Mahi  

Lemon Thyme Butter Sauce
 

Roasted Cauliflower Au Gratin
Green Beans with coriander and garlic
White Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

DESSERT : SERVED FAMILY STYLE
Key Lime Pie

Chocolate Cherry Bomb with Cherry Sauce






Holiday Specials
In addition to our a la carte menu
Appetizer
Tempura Maine Lobster
Satsuma Tangerine, Grilled Fennel, Sausalito Springs Watercress 18
 

Main Course
Wood-Grilled Local Black Grouper
Caramelized Salsify, Swiss Chard, Pinot Noir Reduction 38
or
American Kobe Beef Tasting
Rib Eye & New York Strip, Celery Root, Black Truffle Jus 65

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Tostitos Dipping Sticks

Finally, a tortilla chip you can actually use with salsa and dip.  Tostitos recently introduced their new "dipping strips" and I grabbed a bag today. They work!!!.  They are cut in a rectangular shape and are thicker than normal tortilla chips so no breakage.  They're also longer so you can leave the salsa in the jar if you prefer.  Unfortunately, the chips are still super salty.  Nevertheless, they will serve a purpose during the upcoming college bowl season and NFL playoffs and are much better than those silly "scoops" they have been selling.



TOSTITOS® Dipping Strips! Tortilla Chips

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Don't Drink The Water-Epic Hotel

A foreign visitor has died and at least two other people have become sick after staying at a downtown Miami luxury hotel, and health officials are blaming an unusual type of pneumonia called Legionnaire's Disease.
Guests at the Epic Hotel have been relocated to nearby hotels to prevent further contact with the water, according to the Miami-Dade County Health Department.


http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking-news/story/1379134.html

Bubble Time

It's that time of year, holiday parties are starting and NYE is right around the corner.  Maybe you like some bubbles with your stone crabs and sushi.    I previously recommended an inexpensive alternative to champagne recession pagne well I found an even better alternative.  This one is also produced by Piper Sonoma but it is the Blanc de Blanc.  Tastes VERY close to the real deal and retails for less than $15.00. 


Brut image

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

2009 NFL Suicide Pick Week 14

13 down and 4 more to go.

Baltimore, Washington, Minnesota, Indy, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, New England, San Diego, New Orleans, Miami ,Dallas, Atlanta and Cincinnati are off the board.

Tough week as our choices are obviously dwindling.  I expect the Jets to go into Tampa and win this game even without Sanchez.  That being said, I'm not going with a road team at this stage in the game.

Tennessee is home against St. Louis and they should win this by double digits if they come to play.  I still see fight in them and they should be able to run at will. 


Official pick






Remember the Titans

Friday, December 4, 2009

Borojo (Hollywood) *** UPDATED

I'm a hot dog fan but never tried a Colombian dog until today.  I found a new place on Hollywood Blvd. in downtown Hollywood called Borojo.  They recently opened and feature two Colombian hot dogs, one is chorizo and several "gourmet" arepa options including shrimp, pork, beef and chicken.  They also have 13 or so appetizers including fried hot dogs, mini empanadas, chorizo with mini arepas and sliders.  They also have Colombian style hamburgers which I am unfamiliar with as well.

The space is clean, modern, casual and has a large flat screen tv plus wi-fi.  They are open for lunch and dinner and I think they are open late night as well.  Everything is under $8.50.

I opted for the Chori Perro (Chori-dog) which is a smoked sausage (yeah you guessed right chori is short for chorizo) with mozzarella, potato chips and bacon.  mmmmm.  This was a large dog with a nice bun that was able to stand up to the intriguing combo.  The chorizo was fresh and grilled nicely. The chorizo itself had a mild spicy flavor.   The bacon and crushed potato chips added nice flavor/texture.  The dog also came with a combo of five sauces a/k/a condiments that included ketchup, mustard, mayo (generally not a fan of) and pineapple.  I was a bit concerned about the sauce combo but it worked.  They all blended in nicely to form a tasty combo.  I wouldn't have known there was mayo or pineapple on the dog if they didn't tell me.

I really enjoyed my dog and looking forward to going back to try the super perro (hot dog and not a sausage), the burger plus some of the arepas. Not sure about the fried hot dogs though. I have visions of corn dogs with bright colored meat...

I'm curious about those gourmet arepas.  This place has potential.  I'll report back after I try some more items.

**** as promised I returned to try the not so "gourmet" arepas.  Round two I sampled the pork loin with the traditional Colombian sauce, hogado.  The hogado sauce was salsa-esque and overpowering.  Didn't love the pork or the arepa either.  I also sampled the tenderloin arepa which was served with mozzarella and a bechamel sauce.  The tenderloin was fine but the sauce didn't work for me nor did the arepa.  WE finished ONE of the three sliders....  I stand by my chorizo-dog recommendation but unfortunately can't recommend Borojo for anything else.  I apologize for the premature recommendation.  

Borojo on Urbanspoon



1940 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, FL 33020-4524
(954) 367-5999

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

2009 NFL Suicide Pick Week 13

I really thought we were toast last week but the A.T.L came through for us.

Baltimore, Washington, Minnesota, Indy, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, New England, San Diego, New Orleans, Miami ,Dallas and Atlanta are off the board.

If you have Pittsburgh available now is the time to use them  They are home against the Raiders and this should be a 2+ TD win.  Not an option for us.

New Orleans travels to Washington this week and are a big favorite.  They looked great on Monday night but this could be a trap.  Big win, short week due for a loss... not our problem.

Cincinnati is home against Detroit.  Detroit didn't impress on turkey day and I doubt they will this week on the road.  Cincy should prevail.

Chicago faces the Rams at home.  This is very tempting but I'm not sure I trust Cutler and Co. enough to go with them. 

Official pick- drum roll please.......

Marty Funkhouser on Lebatard Show

Curb fans, if you missed Funkhouser on the Dan Lebatard show last week 11/24 check it out.  Funny stuff
Link below.  You will need to scroll down to 11/24
Funkhouser on lebatard
http://www.hbo.com/larrydavid/img/episodeguide/slideshow/ep36/ep36_larry_friend_bleachers.jpg

Monday, November 30, 2009

Satoro Restaurant and Lounge (Hollywood)

Satoro Resstaurant and Lounge recently opened on the corner of Hollywood Blvd and Dixie Highway in downtown Hollywood.  As I watched the process unfold over the past few months I was concerned that this would be another wanna be late night party spot that just happened to serve food like other spots around town.  However, my skepticism started to diminish when I heard that they hired the former chef from Jackson's Steakhouse on Las Olas, Alexander Dziurzynski.  Maybe they were actually taking the food thing seriously..

Anyway, I recently ventured over for my first visit and was pleasantly surprised at the quality of food.  They feature a Mediterranean inspired menu including tapas along with some steak options.   Ordering the  $22.00 delmonico steak was a no-brainer given the chef's background and price tag.  Several other items sounded great, such as the fresh Florida clams with onions, garlic and chorizo, the oxtail soup with manchego cheese, patatas bravas , grilled jumbo shrimp and lamb meatballs from the tapas menu.

I was intrigued by the menu and opted to try an assortment of their offerings.  I went with the patatas bravas, grilled Jumbo shrimp, lamb meatballs and the delmonico steak.  The delmonico was great.  It was perfectly cut, seasoned right, tender and flavorful.  A really nice steak and just $22.00.  You will have a difficult time finding better value than that in the area.  Nice to see.

I started the meal with the grilled jumbo shrimp which were marinated in garlic and olive oil and served with a horseradish gazpacho.  No issues with the size and freshness of the shrimp but the accompanying gazpacho didn't really work for me. A good dish but not a knockout.   However, the lamb meatballs which were poached in a roasted garlic broth were delicious and something I would easily order again.  The patatas bravas were traditionally diced and topped with a pickled tomato salsa.  Both components of the dish worked  well and they were hard to stop eating.

If you are in the area, I would stop by Satoro.  It's a welcome addition to the improving dining scene in downtown Hollywood.  Hopefully, they will continue to make serving great food the priority and avoid falling into the cheesy lounge trap.


Satoro Restaurant & Lounge, Hollywood, FL - Satoro Restaurant & Lounge, restaurants, bars - Satoro Restaurant & Lounge, Hollywood, Florida

(954) 374-9687
2050 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, FL 33020
www.satororestaurant.com

Satoro Restaurant & Lounge on Urbanspoon

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Islamorada 2009

Just got back from spending a great Thanksgiving down in Islamorada.  Enjoyed outstanding stone crabs and lobsters from the nearby Mr. Lobster (take home) for most meals but ventured out to a couple of local spots and had enjoyable meals.  If you are down that way I would recommend breakfast (not bunz) at Bob's Bunz, the tuna nachos and fresh fish sandwiches at Island Grill for lunch and doing dinner at the Hungry Tarpon. We stopped off at Hungry Tarpon for lunch on a prior trip home from Key West and really enjoyed their fresh fish sandwiches.  They have a new chef and started serving dinner about a year or so ago. Our Mahi and yellowtail snapper dishes were delicious.  If you are in the area, I would recommend trying all three spots plus grabbing stone crabs and lobsters at Mr. Lobster.




Island Grill
Island Grill on Urbanspoon

Hungry Tarpon
Hungry Tarpon Restaurant on Urbanspoon

Bob's Bunz
Bob's Bunz on Urbanspoon


Islamorada Restaurant Hungry Tarpon

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

2009 NFL Suicide Pick Week 12

How 'bout them Cowboys!!!


Baltimore, Washington, Minnesota, Indy, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, New England, San Diego, New Orleans, Miami and Dallas are off the board.

Green Bay heads to Detroit for the traditional thanksgiving day  game.  Green Bay should prevail but they are on the road against a division rival on turkey day.  I'm passing.

Cincinnati returns home to face Cleveland and should rebound.  Holding them for a home game.

Atlanta is home against Tampa Bay.  The Dirty Birds should get well against TB and keep us alive.

HAPPY TURKEY DAY and GOOD LUCK!!!!!
Official pick

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Chef of The Year- José Andrés

Jose Andres is GQ's chef of the year.  Alan Richman wrote a nice article on him in this months magazine (on newsstands now)

Linked below is Alan Richman on his five favorite dishes by Andres
José Andrés: Small Plates, Big Talent

Turkey Day Wine Deals @ Hollywood Vine

SMART BUY ALERT:
 
What’s better for Turkey:
Pinot Noir vs. Beaujolais
 
Hello everyone and welcome to a special “Turkey Day” themed installment of Smart Buy. Thanksgiving is perhaps our favorite time of year in South Florida. It usually signifies the beginning of “bearable” weather, is a great excuse to eat voraciously and generally a time when friends from out of town will be returning home for a long weekend of get-togethers. We’ll help you stock. This year’s festivities happen to come during a time when Americans are suddenly drinking up Pinot Noirs “like it’s going out of style”. It’s not likely…unless someone makes a movie about Merlot ;) But we’ve awakened our palates to the subtlety of this softer style of red wine and today it sits right at the top of our list for T-Day faves. No less popular around turkey-time is Beaujolais. We know many of you have probably had to choke down an awful bottle of Beaujolais Nouveau every year because you thought: “(sigh) it’s a tradition.” Guess what, the real stuff, We mean real Beaujolais, blows the stuff from the supermarkets away. As such we’ve got a deal of a duo of wonderful wines that are also economy friendly choices under $15.
 
 
Pinot Noir :
Villa Mt. Eden “Bien Nacido Vineyard” 2005
 
Retail: $24.99
 
Discounted Price: $14.99
 
Founded in 1881 as Napa Valley's 11th bonded winery, the Villa Mt. Eden winery has been producing high quality varietal wines from grapes sourced from the regions best suited for each varietal for over a century. In a consumer market where Pinot Noir is in high demand, many wineries have been forced to take shortcuts to meet the demand, resulting in generally innocuously light, flavorless Pinots. Not here my friends. This Pinot is oozing with aromas of bright cherry, pomegranate, and cola mingle with dried spice and earthy notes. Sweet cherry fruit and cranberry flavors are wrapped in a blanket of soft tannins with a lingering touch of sweet caramel. The acidity remains fresh and as this bottle is an ’05, this wine is right at its peak and ready to be served with your holiday feasts; honey baked hams, turkey, etc….


Beaujolais :
Jean-Paul Brun “Terres Dorees L’Ancien” 2008
 
Retail: $19.99
 
Discounted Price: $14.99

Robert Parker 90 points!!!
High-toned cherry, kirsch distillate and cherry pit all typical of Gamay on Southern Beaujolais’s chalk-clay soils mark the nose of Brun’s 2008 Beaujolais L’Ancien Vieilles Vignes. A pure, bright, refreshing palate suffused with suggestions of chalk and salt and with its cyanic bitterness invigoratingly woven into its carpet of bright fruit, this finishes with riveting purity and rapier intensity, if not complexity. This will be worth following for at least 2-3 years.




Hollywood Vine
2035 Harrison Street
Hollywood, FL 33020
954-922-2910
954-922-7660 fax
 

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Notorious P.I.G.

Swine is fine this Sunday thanks to Chef Jeremiah Bullfrog

piggie piggie piggie can't you see sometimes your meat just hypnotizes me  

PIG

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

2009 NFL Suicide Pick Week 11

Stayin Alive!!!! and I will leave it at that.   

Baltimore, Washington, Minnesota, Indy, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, New England, San Diego, New Orleans and Miami are off the board.  Things are going to get even tougher now.  That said, there are a few good options this week.

Jacksonville returns home after stealing a win on the road against the Jets.  They face a Bills team that just fired their coach.  Jacksonville should win this one.

As you know, I don't like taking road teams but Pittsburgh should leave Kansas City with a W.  We already used them so it's a moot point.

New Orleans losing at Tampa would be a huge upset and I don't see it happening.  They are going to lose at some point though.  Not our problem since they are off the board.

Cincy heads to Oakland and should get to 8-2.  Road team on a long trip West so we will hold them for a home game.

I normally shy away from division rivalries but Washington is not good and I expect the Cowboys to win this one easily.

Official Pick 

Click for large image

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Gourmet "Old Yeller" Diner (North Miami)

Gourmet Diner is one of those spots that you never plan on going  to but always leave happy when you do.

On a recent Saturday night, my wife and I ventured out to eat with no reservations or plans.  We were looking for something casual so most of our favorites were eliminated off the bat.   I suggested the bar area of one of my favorite spots, Timo, but she thought it would be too much of a scene for a casual stop so we passed.  We had been to Neomi's recently so that was also eliminated.  Calafate Grill (tapas) in Sunny Isles was high on my must try list so we decided to give it a shot.  It started to rain as we pulled into the busy shopping center where it's  located sooo being the gentleman that I am,  I dropped her off at the entrance armed with an umbrella.  She was back in the car in a flash.  Too crowded?? No, the place is empty and it's brighter than McDonald's.  PASS.  Oyyy!!!!, on to plan B and we didn't have a plan A plus we're  in Sunny freakin Isles (not that there is anything wrong with that...)

Welllll, we can do pizza at Racks- ehhhh, neither of us were feeling it.  We both heard great things about Asia Bay in Bal Harbour but we weren't in the mood for sushi.  As we crossed the causeway, I recalled that there was a new Italian restaurant on 123rd St. that served inexpensive  homemade pasta (Bocca)  SOLD.

It's now around 8:30 when we pull up at Bocca and we notice from the car that there is NO one in the restaurant. Zero, Zilch, Nada, Empty.   Normally this would be okayyy  but we just weren't feeling it so we drove on.

Ahhhh we are in Petit Rouge land!!! Perfect.  Unfortunately, the small lot was packed and there was no way  I was waiting around at this point.  Plan D????? Yakko San with a capital B Babyyyyyyyyyyy-  "fine, I'm starving now,  let's go" WAHOOOOOO.

We're speeding North up Biscayne listening to one of my favorites, Even Flow on 93.1 (finally have a good rock station in town) when we see the light, the Gourmet Diner light.  A quick glance, eyebrows raise, two smiles,(possibly a dorky  thumbs up from me) and a sharp right turn...... Oh yeahhhhh, it's the underrated, often overlooked, trusted and reliable "old yeller" a/k/a the Gourmet Diner.

From the outside (and inside) Gourmet D looks like your standard diner. (not many down here though) Nevertheless, they serve top notch classic French bistro fare.  You'll find escargot, onion soup. steak au poivre etc etc.

Some of my favorites include the grilled asparagus, one of the best caesar salads in the area (w/ great chicken), great vegetable souffles, tenderloin tips, beef burgundy (wasn't on menu most recent visit)  roasted duck plus numerous daily specials presented on a table side blackboard.

Prices are on the expensive side for lunch but very reasonable for dinner. I always leave happy and stuffed.   My only complaint would be the VERY limited wine list.  It's also very cold inside.  If you are in the area and haven't been yet, check it out.  Great spot pre/post a movie or holiday shopping at the Aventura mall.  It's one of Miami's most underrated and reliable restaurants. 

13951 Biscayne Blvd
North Miami Beach, FL 33181

Gourmet Diner on Urbanspoon


Gourmet Diner
GOURMET DINER

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Pretty, Pretty, Pretty Good

I've been a HUGE Curb Your Enthusiasm fan from day 1 and there have been some great episodes but tonight's episode could be the best one ever.  Must see.  Boogie Nights, I mean Californication wasn't too shabby either.  Ok, back to the Colt/Pats game.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Country's Best Seasonal Offerings

NOVEMBER
Antique heirloom apples from Applesource ($26 a dozen)


 
 
DECEMBER
 
Sweetwater Oysters from Hog Island Oyster Company ($48 for 3 dozen)
 
 
JANUARY
 
American White Truffles from Oregon Wild Edibles ($8.00 to $20.00 an ounce)  
 
 
More to come.. 

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

2009 NFL Suicide Pick Week 10

The Saints sure made last week interesting but a win is a win.. I hope no one got caught in that Green Bay trap.  This is why I am hesitant to take any team on the road.  Green Bay knocked out about 15% of my pool.

Things are going to start getting tough with Baltimore, Washington, Minnesota, Indy, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, New England, San Diego and New Orleans off the board.  I was saving the Giants for later in the season but that looks like mistake right now.

Week 10 features a very strong play with Minnesota at home against the Lions.  We already exhausted Minny so this is not an option.  If you have them I would use them.

The Jets are coming off a bye and are at home against Jacksonville.  I expect the Jets to win this one but I don't have enough faith in them yet to roll with them this week.

Denver heads to Washington and should win this one because Washington is bad and getting worse.  That being said, Denver is coming off a Monday night game and on the road.  I'm passing and saving them for a home game.

New Orleans head to St Louis and should have no problem winning here.  If you are inclined to take a road team this is the one to take.

Miami returns home this week to face on fire Tampa Bay.  Tampa is riding a one game win streak.  I hope they enjoyed their week because the streak ends here.  They have a first year head coach who is over his head and they are starting a rookie QB.  Dolphins get healthy this week and crush the bucs.

Official pick   

Monday, November 9, 2009

Perrier Jouet Dinner @ Capital Grille


Ding ding ding, we have a winner....This is all about the champagne

 

Perrier Jouet Wine Dinner at Capital Grille Fort Lauderdale

Wednesday, November 11, 2009 - 





"Champagne for my real friends and real pain for my sham friends."


Tom Waits - American Singer Songwriter b.1949

By the way this dinner is one of the best values that we have offered our clients all year, you can't buy a 1/2 bottle of the last two wines on the menu for the price of admission to this event!








Capital Grille Fort Lauderdale


PROUDLY PRESENTS


a Bubbly Experience


And You Are Cordially Invited.






The Capital Grille of Fort Lauderdale is pleased to invite you to a dining experience in our Wine Room that will always be remembered as a five-course culinary masterpiece brilliantly inspired by Executive Chef Marc Gruverman.


Allow the service staff to tempt your palette with generous pours of Perrier Jouët selections that will pair seamlessly with the culinary delights.


Amuse


King Crab Tempura


White Truffle Aoli





GH Mumm de Cramant NV


Price: $72         Sale $63.36


Wine Watch Review:  Lightly toasted biscuit and lemon zest citrus light almond pastry notes. Tangy lemon citrus fruit with a smooth and creamy mousse, with excellent minerality chalky finish, leaves the tongue salivating for food crisp green apple. 100% Chardonnay from the grand cru Cramant, only aged 24 months so can not be called a vintage but is from a single vintage, not aged as long so it can retain its freshness, only sold to the family and friends until the 1970s. MOST EXCELLENT


1st Course


Baby Greens, Blue Cheese Crumbles, Dried Cherries,Candied Walnuts, Raspberry Vinaigrette





Perrier Jouët Blason Rosé NV


Price: $67.50    Sale $59.40


A light- to medium-bodied bubbly offering delicate strawberry and watermelon notes. It has a lively structure that leaves a mouthwatering impression. Drink now through 2010. (89 Points)Wine Spectator 11/15/08


2nd Course


Butter Poached Lobster, Roasted Root Vegetables





Perrier Jouët Fleur de Champagne 1999


Price: $125       Sale $110


Wine Watch Review:  Almond and fresh bread dough, lemon drop candy with notes of ginger spice 50/50 chardonnay and pinot noir, very concentrated bouquet of aromas, with a distinct minerality.  A good amount of fruit in the mid palate very creamy and full bodied on the palate with notes of almond and ginger spice, with fresh acidity but not pronounced, the focus here is on the rich and creamy seductive fruit.  Finish 40+          EXCELLENT +






3rd Course


Braised Short Rib Jumbo Sea Scallop Potato Au Gratin





Perrier Jouët Fleur de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2000


Price: $345       Sale $303.60


Complex aromas and flavors of truffle, wood smoke, butter and spice mark this maturing Champagne, which is well-integrated, picking up a strong mineral element on the finish. Shows impressive resonance and energy. Drink now through 2028. 900 cases imported. -BS (94 Points) Wine Spectator Buying Guide Issue: Nov 15, 2009


4th Course


Milk Chocolate Covered Strawberries


Assorted Truffle Chocolates





Perrier Jouët Fleur de Champagne Rosé 1999


Price: $316.50 Sale $278.52


Opulent and creamy, this tastes like a higher dosage, with an off-dry, soft profile. It should win a lot of fans for its berry and spice flavors and mellow character. Drink now. -BS (88 Points) Wine Spectator Buying Guide Issue: Nov 30, 2005






$125 per Person (Exclusive of Tax/Gratuity)


Wednesday, November 11 at 7:00 p.m.


2430 East Sunrise Blvd, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304


R.S.V.P. (954) 446-2000



Sunday, November 8, 2009

Bourbon Burger King

There is a new Burger King in town and it doesn't have a creepy mascot.   I finally tried Michael Mina's burger over at Bourbon Steak (Turnberry Isle-Aventura) and left VERY satisfied.  I'm a fan of the restaurant and it was very hard to bypass his outstanding menu offerings for a burger especially after noticing a pork belly dish.  That being said, the $14 price tag is a real bargain compared to the regular menu items and for the quality product they are serving. 

The burger menu is only offered in the lounge/bar area of the restaurant. (you can order form the full menu too and they also have a bar menu that contains a few small plate options like ahi tuna, lobster rolls and lobster corn dogs.  I can't recall the rest) The burger menu offers several signature burgers plus a build your own market burger option where you can select the burger (all-beef, lamb, turkey, salmon and falafel) artisan cheese, farmer's markets vegetables/greens and sauces/dressings.   I kept it simple and opted for the signature All-Beef which is a dry aged burger topped with melted farmhouse cheddar, shredded lettuce, balsamic onions and secret sauce.  I'll keep this short and sweet. The meat was perfectly seasoned, cooked and was SUPER tasty!!!  Everything worked including the bun which had  no problem supporting this large juicy burger. 

Throw in a couple of perfectly made Old Fashioneds and some duck fat fries and it was a perfect night.

This is South Florida's best burger.

Bar Burgers

http://michaelmina.net/mm_bourbonsteak_miami/



Bourbon Steak Miami on Urbanspoon

*I have not tried Burger & Beer Joint or the burger at Clarke's yet.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

The Most Delicious Mail-Order Food Food + Drinks: Details.com

This months Details magazine features distinctive foods in America that can be shipped to your door.



The next time you order in, the delivery guy should be wearing a FedEx or UPS uniform. With just one day's notice, you can sample some of the country's best regional foods. All you have to do is heat and eat. After you devour buttery, handmade biscuits from Charleston, real-deal étouffée from Cajun country, and life-changing mac and cheese from Seattle, you might as well toss that stack of takeout menus—because it's going to be impossible to go back to those California rolls from down the street.

MY PICK
Muffuletta
CENTRAL GROCERY, NEW ORLEANS
The distinction of having invented New Orleans' best-liked sandwich, the muffuletta, hasn't inspired this dusty grocery to remodel. Yet the demand for its sublime concoction—a jumbo sesame-seed-dotted roll loaded with salami, ham, mortadella, provolone, and olive salad—has motivated the shop to ship. And travel improves the sandwich: The briny olive condiment seeps into the bread yet magically doesn't turn it to mush. $12.95 each, plus shipping; 504-523-1620

Central Market has been a fixture in the French Quarter for nearly a century.
"Central Market has been a fixture in the French Quarter for nearly a century."
Michael Stern 



FULL LIST HERE  The Most Delicious Mail-Order Food Food + Drinks: Details.com

Additionally,
Matt and Ted Lee have gained a reputation as Southern gentlemen who want to share their love of down-home food—both through their cookbooks (like The Lee Bros. Southern Cookbook and their latest, Simple, Fresh, Southern) and their passionately curated mail-order venture, Lee Bros. Boiled Peanuts Catalog ( boiledpeanuts.com). But the duo's good taste isn't limited to delights from Dixie—here, they've chosen their favorite epicurean deliverables from all over the U.S. of A.


SOUNDS GOOD
Surryano Country Ham from the Edwards Family, Surry, Virginia
Made from Six-Spotted Berkshire pigs, this beautifully marbled, serrano-inspired ham is just as good eaten on its own as it is with biscuits or melon. (from $43, heritagefoodsusa.com)


FULL LIST HERE    Brotherly Loves Food + Drinks: Details.com

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Friday, November 6, 2009

Lola Palooza 11/20/09

This sounds like a fun event at a great place and for charity.  Perfect combo!!


Join the staff and fans of Lola's on harrison for a night of non-stop fun, food and friends. Lola Palooza 2009 is our first annual food and music celebration designed to kick-off the up-coming season, and give thanks for the year past. 



tickets



As we approach our third season here at Lola's on harrison, we have so much to celebrate and give thanks for.  We have been privileged to survive and thrive through these tough times and we owe it all to you, our loyal fans.  So much has changed since we opened in July of 2007.  With the addition of custom sound proofing, a full liquor license, an outdoor bar/patio area and a brand new renovated private dining room that seats up to 50 people- if you haven't been to Lola's- now is the time to check it out-

  • VIP Reception 7pm-8pm
  • 8pm-11pm - Live Music , All You Can Eat and Drink 
  • Live Cooking Demo from Rising Star Chef Michael Wagner 
  • Sample New and Unique Dishes with Craft Micro-Brews & Boutique Wines
  • Meet the Mixologist: Learn Secrets to Our Brand New Signature Artisinal Cocktail Menu
  • Thanksgiving Food Drive - Bring a canned good and enter to win $100 Gift Certificate

Sincerely,

Chef Mike and the Staff @
Lola's on Harrison
(954) 927 9851



Lola's on Harrison 



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