Beer & Wine for Sale. Come check it out!
Benefits http://theregoesmyhero.com
Showing posts with label Baltimore. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Baltimore. Show all posts
Friday, July 8, 2011
Tonight Baltimore's First Food Truck Rally!
Beer & Wine for Sale. Come check it out!
Benefits http://theregoesmyhero.com
Friday, January 7, 2011
Dining at The Dogwood
Enjoyed a fabulous celebratory meal at Dogwood and thought I would share some highlights of the meal including the drinks!
First thing you should know is that 5-7 is OYSTER HAPPY HOUR! And--- it is progressive. How you ask? Well, it is a brilliant money making idea. At 5 ---the featured type is available for $.55, each half hour the price goes up until 6:30 when then reach $1.25. Even better it is not restricted to the bar!
So, my dining companion enjoyed 4 Oysters and we each had a glass of the featured paired wine. A new one for us at $7 a glass. It was one of the best surprises in wine I have found in a while - dining out.
A 2008 Antech Reserve Brut - Blanquette De Limoux.
Another special for Thursdays is the Fried chicken which of course was ordered. Every Thursday night you can enjoy their Natural Buttermilk Fried Chicken sourced from Lancaster County (PA) piled high atop cheddar mashed potatoes, al dente veggies du jour & a Southern style biscuit. Lightly smeared in chicken gravy for only $17. Which is a steal in my mind - especially when you think of the effort it takes to coat and fry your own at home.
I enjoyed a series of "small" plates which were not truly small but man oh man so delicious. I would be remiss in mentioning that I had wonderful, delicate braised Escargot tossed with cremini mushrooms, squash roasted garlic cream sauce, apple-pumpkin relish all served on top a slice of Acorn Squash, $12.50. I do not want the description leaving you thinking thick white looking sauce in fact it tasted a good bit of garlic and sweetened vinegar not heavy rich cream. I state this because we dug in and didn't stop forgetting to take a photo of it - it was that good! The snails were small, plump and about 8 on the plate. It was going just for this dish!
The next two and final plates were the following:
Sautéed Kennett Square Mushrooms
served on on parsnip-potato rosti, shiitake, oyster, hen of the woods mushrooms, chive-parsley nage $12.50
This dish as you can see is not so "small." Very light in flavors but hearty, meaty mushrooms. I did not see any shiitake on my plate - most were hen of the woods and I did not complain. Dense, chewy, earthy partners to the rosti. I did have to ask for a pinch of salt as well as a side of fresh creme or sour cream that I noticed was being featured with their smoked salmon because the rosti needed it. This dish was good but the flavors were flat and one dimensional. They happily brought us an herbed sour cream and salt shaker. This addition for the rosti - much improved the overall balance.
Seared Cape May Sea Scallops
sage roasted spaghetti squash with local apples, smoked bacon, pumpkin seed pesto $15.50
From the photo it is difficult to tell but the mound in the center concealing a plump scallop is the bacon and spaghetti squash with diced apples. The scallops were large, moist and seared crisp on the edges. Though I enjoyed the pumpkin sauce - I am not sure what was "pesto" about it. Pesto is and always will be a blend of herb, seed or nut with oil and spices. Even if this had pumpkin seeds in it - ground and then strained- no evidence or a toasted seed. From the photo you can tell the sauce was creamy smooth. I almost think they used the Vegan Pumpkin soup of the day made with apple cider as the sauce. Majority of the flavor was from the smoky bacon. Focal point was the scallop and the flavors did mesh well but I would say the menu markets the dishes or takes some liberties that most diners may not appreciate. I didn't complain because after all it was good!
Of course there was wine with this meal. Thursday also happens to be 20% off any Rhone region bottle. Can't beat that. We tried Syrah - Cotes-Du-Rhone, Mon Coeur. Full body and aroma - Chewy but with a medium level of flavor - not over powering. Spicy with hints of cherry - well to me.
Cheers!
First thing you should know is that 5-7 is OYSTER HAPPY HOUR! And--- it is progressive. How you ask? Well, it is a brilliant money making idea. At 5 ---the featured type is available for $.55, each half hour the price goes up until 6:30 when then reach $1.25. Even better it is not restricted to the bar!
So, my dining companion enjoyed 4 Oysters and we each had a glass of the featured paired wine. A new one for us at $7 a glass. It was one of the best surprises in wine I have found in a while - dining out.
Another special for Thursdays is the Fried chicken which of course was ordered. Every Thursday night you can enjoy their Natural Buttermilk Fried Chicken sourced from Lancaster County (PA) piled high atop cheddar mashed potatoes, al dente veggies du jour & a Southern style biscuit. Lightly smeared in chicken gravy for only $17. Which is a steal in my mind - especially when you think of the effort it takes to coat and fry your own at home.
The next two and final plates were the following:
Sautéed Kennett Square Mushrooms
served on on parsnip-potato rosti, shiitake, oyster, hen of the woods mushrooms, chive-parsley nage $12.50
This dish as you can see is not so "small." Very light in flavors but hearty, meaty mushrooms. I did not see any shiitake on my plate - most were hen of the woods and I did not complain. Dense, chewy, earthy partners to the rosti. I did have to ask for a pinch of salt as well as a side of fresh creme or sour cream that I noticed was being featured with their smoked salmon because the rosti needed it. This dish was good but the flavors were flat and one dimensional. They happily brought us an herbed sour cream and salt shaker. This addition for the rosti - much improved the overall balance.
Seared Cape May Sea Scallops
sage roasted spaghetti squash with local apples, smoked bacon, pumpkin seed pesto $15.50
From the photo it is difficult to tell but the mound in the center concealing a plump scallop is the bacon and spaghetti squash with diced apples. The scallops were large, moist and seared crisp on the edges. Though I enjoyed the pumpkin sauce - I am not sure what was "pesto" about it. Pesto is and always will be a blend of herb, seed or nut with oil and spices. Even if this had pumpkin seeds in it - ground and then strained- no evidence or a toasted seed. From the photo you can tell the sauce was creamy smooth. I almost think they used the Vegan Pumpkin soup of the day made with apple cider as the sauce. Majority of the flavor was from the smoky bacon. Focal point was the scallop and the flavors did mesh well but I would say the menu markets the dishes or takes some liberties that most diners may not appreciate. I didn't complain because after all it was good!
Of course there was wine with this meal. Thursday also happens to be 20% off any Rhone region bottle. Can't beat that. We tried Syrah - Cotes-Du-Rhone, Mon Coeur. Full body and aroma - Chewy but with a medium level of flavor - not over powering. Spicy with hints of cherry - well to me.
Cheers!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Annabel Lee Tavern
Annabel Lee Tavern
601 South Clinton Street, corner of Fleet.
Open 4pm - dinner only
Not new to the Canton scene by any stretch. In fact if you want to dine in- call ahead and make a reservations, few days in advance for weekends - possibly a few hours on week days because seats are few and far between. Warm and cozy. Not pretentious. Great local beer selection - yes, of course featuring as many Brewer's Art beers as possible as well as other micro brews. I was thrilled to see another place selling $5 glasses of sparkling!
Menu does change and the list of nightly specials is shocking. Add about 8 additional items. Don't be shocked to see many revolving around Crab meat.
Some of the top items to try:
Any sandwich is served with amazing blue cheese cole slaw and sweet potato fries - you can upgrade to Duck Fat fried fries but the Cajun spiced, maple glazed sweet potato fries are addictive sweet heat!!!
Crab Cake Sandwich
Grilled Ahi Tuna Panini (Beware the flat bread called focaccia has cheddar cheese baked onto it underneath and is cold not hot?)
Roasted Orange Roughy Tacos (2)
Rosemary Beef Tenderloin Gyro
Special - Kobe taco beef on top Nachos
601 South Clinton Street, corner of Fleet.
Open 4pm - dinner only
Not new to the Canton scene by any stretch. In fact if you want to dine in- call ahead and make a reservations, few days in advance for weekends - possibly a few hours on week days because seats are few and far between. Warm and cozy. Not pretentious. Great local beer selection - yes, of course featuring as many Brewer's Art beers as possible as well as other micro brews. I was thrilled to see another place selling $5 glasses of sparkling!
Menu does change and the list of nightly specials is shocking. Add about 8 additional items. Don't be shocked to see many revolving around Crab meat.
Some of the top items to try:
Any sandwich is served with amazing blue cheese cole slaw and sweet potato fries - you can upgrade to Duck Fat fried fries but the Cajun spiced, maple glazed sweet potato fries are addictive sweet heat!!!
Crab Cake Sandwich
Grilled Ahi Tuna Panini (Beware the flat bread called focaccia has cheddar cheese baked onto it underneath and is cold not hot?)
Roasted Orange Roughy Tacos (2)
Rosemary Beef Tenderloin Gyro
Special - Kobe taco beef on top Nachos
Gringo's Guide to Mexican Food in Baltimore
Mexican? Salvadorean? Ecuadorean? Dominican? Honduran? Where can I get Mexican in Baltimore?
There are many choices in Baltimore City for "Mexican" according signs, websites and even menus but where is the real deal? Truth is in Baltimore, we have more from Central American countries then we do Mexico. However, each area restaurant has its specialty worth exploring. Baltimore does have some very good, authentic Mexican dishes throughout the city you just have to know where to look.
Below I will try my best to keep you a detailed list of what to try where.
La Tortilleria Sinaloa - 1716 Eastern Ave.
Best Fresh Homemade Corn Tortillas- Real Deal!
Los Mariachis - 3233 Eastern Ave. (410) 522-0266
Open 7 days/week.
Small establishment, sit down or carry out. Family run. Huge Menu with English "loose" translations. Staff does not speak fluent English- my kinda of joint! Average menu price $7-10.00
The influence here is of Puebla - not many in Bmore can say that. Therefore, you are going to want to try the
Chilaquiles, Pozole, Sopes and Huaraches.
If you have never tried Huaraches - highly recommend it - very simple dish but better than pizza to me. I wish I could have these while watching Sunday football!
It is a thin doughy base much like a sope dough (think pita like consistency) but shaped like a large shoe -hence the name. It is grilled on a flat top and then topped with shredded lettuce, the infamous white cheese, crema, and meat of your choice- chicken is quite good or no meat at all.
Make sure no matter what you order you ask for the "red" and "green" sauce- giant squeeze bottles will appear at your table and you will be pleased! These homemade salsas are medium and hot respectively. Smooth in texture, cool in temperature and add just the right amount of depth to any dish.
There are many choices in Baltimore City for "Mexican" according signs, websites and even menus but where is the real deal? Truth is in Baltimore, we have more from Central American countries then we do Mexico. However, each area restaurant has its specialty worth exploring. Baltimore does have some very good, authentic Mexican dishes throughout the city you just have to know where to look.
Below I will try my best to keep you a detailed list of what to try where.
La Tortilleria Sinaloa - 1716 Eastern Ave.
Best Fresh Homemade Corn Tortillas- Real Deal!
Open 7 days/week, 7am, closes at 6pm accept for Friday & Saturday
(410) 276-3741
Both English & Spanish are spoken. Owners are native to B-more but the staff is from Sinaloa, Mexico (west coast) and they are the magic behind the menu!
Both English & Spanish are spoken. Owners are native to B-more but the staff is from Sinaloa, Mexico (west coast) and they are the magic behind the menu!
Do not be offended by the loud, squeaking piece of machinery behind the counter. This monstrosity cranks out the tortillas steadily everyday.
Known for their tacos which are accompanied by lime wedges, avocado sauce, and salsa (hot- very hot)
Counter seating - less than 8 people total but when you are bellying up to enjoy 3 tacos you don't need a ton of room.
Kilo of fresh, warm tortillas are $1.90
You can purchase their taco meats (Barbacoa, Chicken, Steak, Pork, Tongue etc...) ~$14-16.00/lb.
Cash & Credit accepted.
La Guadalupana Restaurante y Tienda
500 South Wolfe Street, corner of Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21231-3008
(410) 276-2700Spanish speaking, some English. Recently underwent a face lift inside and out.
Grocery and Restaurant!
When dining in - try the Torta! One of the best in town and served on the authentic roll from Ramos panaderia y pasteleria next door. Yes, you can buy sweets & savory baked goods here.
Looking for special Mexican or general Latin ingredients - this is your place from plantains to cheeses.
Los Mariachis - 3233 Eastern Ave. (410) 522-0266
Open 7 days/week.
Small establishment, sit down or carry out. Family run. Huge Menu with English "loose" translations. Staff does not speak fluent English- my kinda of joint! Average menu price $7-10.00
The influence here is of Puebla - not many in Bmore can say that. Therefore, you are going to want to try the
Chilaquiles, Pozole, Sopes and Huaraches.
If you have never tried Huaraches - highly recommend it - very simple dish but better than pizza to me. I wish I could have these while watching Sunday football!
It is a thin doughy base much like a sope dough (think pita like consistency) but shaped like a large shoe -hence the name. It is grilled on a flat top and then topped with shredded lettuce, the infamous white cheese, crema, and meat of your choice- chicken is quite good or no meat at all.
Make sure no matter what you order you ask for the "red" and "green" sauce- giant squeeze bottles will appear at your table and you will be pleased! These homemade salsas are medium and hot respectively. Smooth in texture, cool in temperature and add just the right amount of depth to any dish.
 | |||
| Normal Huaraches which means cheese no meat |
 |
| Chicken Sopes |
 |
| Pozole |
 |
Pozole on right, fixings on left |
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Ethiopian Food- Eat with your hands & get messy!!!
Baltimore has 2 good options available for your dining pleasure.
Dukem & Ethiopian Delight
For sit down lunch or dinner Dukem is your best bet.
This intimate setting is locating very close to University of Baltimore & the Opera House and a perfect meal before class or a show!
Best for sharing, try any one of the combination platters.
Did you know that Ethiopian vegetarian foods are also always vegan? They use vegetable oil to prepare veggie dishes versus clarified butter for meat dishes. Only dairy is the fresh made cheese from buttermilk - which can be avoided.
Looking for a new experience? Try their Kitfo - served as a sandwich here - is mixed with warmed clarified butter cooking the raw tenderloin just a bit. Mitmita seasons meat and Awaze is served on the side. Very high quality.
Metered street parking is available.
Located 1100 Maryland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21201-5510
Also has location in D.C.
(410) 385-0318
Hours: Daily 11-11pm
If you are looking for a high end Ethiopian experience - try Washington D.C.'s U&9th street corridor often referred to as "Little Ethiopia" - try Etete (DC's best eats), Elfegne, Dukem (market attached), Little Ethiopia (Traditional seating)
Ethiopian Delight is a stand at the Waverly Saturday Farmer's Market Only.They sell very few items but what they do have is delicious!
Three different (wats) made of lentils - Mild, Medium & Hot. The heat comes from the traditional Ethiopian spice blend Berbere. The owner brings this from family in Ethiopia and no she does not sell it - I asked.
2 types of stuffed breads are offered- one sweet and one savory.
"Sandwiches" are offered which is really the Ethiopian version of a wrap - one of the wats smeared in to fresh made injera - rolled up in foil.
You can purchase the injera only which is a fabulous treat- it freezes well.
Waverly Farmer's Market
Open every Saturday - year round - 7am-until sell out or Noon whichever comes first
Dukem & Ethiopian Delight
For sit down lunch or dinner Dukem is your best bet.
This intimate setting is locating very close to University of Baltimore & the Opera House and a perfect meal before class or a show!
Best for sharing, try any one of the combination platters.
Did you know that Ethiopian vegetarian foods are also always vegan? They use vegetable oil to prepare veggie dishes versus clarified butter for meat dishes. Only dairy is the fresh made cheese from buttermilk - which can be avoided.
Looking for a new experience? Try their Kitfo - served as a sandwich here - is mixed with warmed clarified butter cooking the raw tenderloin just a bit. Mitmita seasons meat and Awaze is served on the side. Very high quality.
Metered street parking is available.Located 1100 Maryland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21201-5510
Also has location in D.C.
(410) 385-0318
Hours: Daily 11-11pm
If you are looking for a high end Ethiopian experience - try Washington D.C.'s U&9th street corridor often referred to as "Little Ethiopia" - try Etete (DC's best eats), Elfegne, Dukem (market attached), Little Ethiopia (Traditional seating)
Ethiopian Delight is a stand at the Waverly Saturday Farmer's Market Only.
Three different (wats) made of lentils - Mild, Medium & Hot. The heat comes from the traditional Ethiopian spice blend Berbere. The owner brings this from family in Ethiopia and no she does not sell it - I asked.
2 types of stuffed breads are offered- one sweet and one savory.
"Sandwiches" are offered which is really the Ethiopian version of a wrap - one of the wats smeared in to fresh made injera - rolled up in foil.
You can purchase the injera only which is a fabulous treat- it freezes well.
Waverly Farmer's Market
Open every Saturday - year round - 7am-until sell out or Noon whichever comes first
Friday, May 28, 2010
Week of May 23rd- FRESH SPRING PEAS!
Already shelled. Buy by the pound (~$3/lb). Get there early to get in line!
So sweet -eat them raw like candy! Maybe a touch of sea salt.
Try them blanched, run threw food mill and mixed with coconut milk for a creamy twist on fresh pea soup.
Increase the craveability with a hint of ginger and/or lemongrass.
In season for approximately the next 3 weeks, weather pending. Get'em while you can!
Where to buy these lovely, bright green pearls?
Farmer Tom
Bmore's 32nd Street (Waverly's) Farmer's Market on Saturdays
Baltimore's Farmer's Market (Downtown under 83) on Sundays (Now opens 7am officially).
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