Endo Edibles

February 3, 2017
6:57 PM
by: Uhockey

Yun Nan Garden, Las Vegas NV

Yun Nan Garden

White Rice

Szechuan Dan Dan Noodle

Yunnan Style Dried Beef

Ma Po Tofu

Lamb with Cumin

Eel Sauteed with Dry Pepper

Eggplant in Garlic Sauce

Chopped Smoked Duck

Chongqing Spicy Chicken

Tucked away behind the Kim Long Mall, near Chinatown Plaza, and doing the spicy thing in Las Vegas long before Chengdu Taste rolled into town, it was on the suggestion of a friend that five adults and two children sat down at Yun Nan Garden for a meal of *red star* specials that did little to dissuade even the timid thanks to the sort of spice focused on flavor rather than scorching the tongue tasteless.

Named for the Southwestern China Province of Yunnan, an area revered by practitioners of Eastern Medicine thanks to its diversity of plants and herbs, diners visiting Yun Nan Garden are quickly met by a golden Buddha on walking through the doors, a dining room featuring tables of varied sizes spread out to seat perhaps one hundred comfortably, and all that space to be filled on a Friday night by 6:45.

Providing English-friendly menus and forks, but otherwise as traditional as anyplace on Spring Mountain from its service structure to the clientele, it was at a rounded-table with a rotating center that decisions were made with a focus on a variety, most the choices denoted as spicy, though a more detailed look would prove that the warning was present on almost 50% of Yun Nan Garden’s Cuisine.

Struggling for water and dishes at first, but oddly finding the service improving incrementally as the restaurant got busier, it was with a flood of plates that the table was suddenly alive with color and bold aromatics, the dried Beef which arrived first eating much like Jerky with a mild numbing effect while the Ma Po Tofu featured a heaping portion of soft cubes bathed in an oil-based Sauce that carried the spice straight to the sinuses without the more expected effect of leaving the lips and tongue tingling.

Turning next to stir-fry, the noodle-like Eels pleasantly slippery in a tangle of Onions and dried Chiles, Lamb with Cumin proved to be the nights most fragrant dish with both the tender bits of Meat and Peppers picking up a lot of earth and nutty notes, the Eggplant in Garlic Sauce similarly submitting to the flavors around it while still maintaining a fibrous, springy texture.

Turning up the temperature with Dan Dan Noodles served Szechuan style, the combination of the region’s eponymous Peppers and a whole lot of Garlic best taken in moderation for those moving from plate to plate, chopped Duck was a complete change of pace from everything else with a great bit of smoke and bones that are navigable, the Chongqing Spicy Chicken a return to Yun Nan’s strike zone that mostly tastes like really good double-fried Chicken…unless of course one chooses to chew up a few of the accompanying Peppers that almost immediately renders the palate tone-deaf and mouth watering.

FOUR STARS: Doing the ‘hot’ thing right, not just trying to torch mouths but instead focusing on flavor, Yun Nan Garden is a hidden gem removed from the main drag that is Spring Mountain Road, the service better than many similar spots and everything from the tables to the restrooms also much cleaner.

RECOMMENDED: Yunnan Style Dried Beef, Chongqing Spicy Chicken, Chopped Smoked Duck, Chongqing Spicy Chicken.

AVOID: Due to the Garlic and heavily spiced oil the Dan Dan Noodles are best eaten in small bites to avoid overwhelming the palate.

TIP: Yun Nan Garden gets busy after 6:30, though those not wanting to wait are invited to order take-out from the menu or a warming counter where off-cuts like Duck Heads and Chicken Feet are sold.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Yunnan-Garden/117617094930437

Posted in Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Yun Nan Garden, Yunnan Garden

January 28, 2017
6:10 PM
by: Uhockey

Andre’s Bistro & Bar, Las Vegas NV

Andre’s Bistro & Bar

Creamsicle – Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Cream

Blackberry Rickey – Organic Blackberry Syrup, Mint, Lime Juice, Soda Water

Pretty G&T – Hayman’s Old Tom Gin, Tonic Syrup, Soda Water, Hibiscus

French Baguette – Salted Butter

Charcuterie Board – House Mustard, Onions and Cornichons, Speck, Pork Rillette, Pork and Pistachio Pate, Mission Figs, Tomato Jam

Lyonnaise Salad – Frisee, Smoked Lardons, Poached Egg, Warm Sherry Vinaigrette

Roasted Vegetable Terrine – Goat Cheese, Parsley Oil, Black Olive Vinaigrette

Crispy Calamari – Spicy Salt & Pepper, Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

Seared Foie Gras – Crème Anglaise, Candied Almonds, Cinnamon Apples, Port

Duck Fat Garlic Fries – Ketchup

Golden Trout Amandine – Green Beans, Beurre Noisette

Roasted Chicken Breast – Mushrooms, Bacon, Pearl Onions, Fingerling Potatoes, Natural Chicken Jus

Artisanal Sausages – Spicy Lamb, Pork-Garlic, Duck, Warm Potato Salad with Smoked Lardons

Braised Lamb Shank – Orzo Pasta, Tomato Concasse, Lamb Jus

Grand Marnier Souffle – Crème Anglaise

Saturday Sundae – Caramel, Fudge, Strawberries, Vanilla Ice Cream, Peanuts, Whipped Cream, Cherry

Apple Tart Tatin – Vanilla Ice Cream

Chocolate Pot de Crème – Cookie Tuille, Sweet Cream

Classic Milkshake – Strawberry, Malt

Lemon Tart – Raspberries

Root Beer Float – Vanilla Ice Cream

Chocolate Walnut Gateau – Crème Anglaise

Crème Brulee – Seasonal Berries

Double Espresso – Ice

Shuttering as a result of The Strip’s incessant need to recreate, the kitchen that has given rise to some of Las Vegas’ most skilled Chefs soon to be part of a food fantasy-land from New York, it was as a silver lining that Andre Rochat and his team led by Joe Marsco and Mark Purdy promised a reinvention of their own, Andre’s Bistro & Bar debuting on January 14th, instantly upgrading the Southwest Community’s dining scene.

Installing itself in the former DW Bistro, the bones still recognizable though the décor has changed extensively from the beautiful bar out to a dining-space decorated in wood, statues of Chickens and artifacts brought to remember the past, patrons are greeted at a small podium by smiling faces as music plays loudly, the days of The Rat Pack unfortunately lost in favor of everything from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Rihanna and Calvin Harris.

Seeing several familiar faces in the kitchen, Chef Rochat working the line right next to Purdy, Marty Red DeLeon Lopez and Jon VanHusen while Tammy Alana continues to head-up Pastry, the menu at Andre’s Bistro & Bar cuts a wide swath through French classics as well as some more American ideas including everything from a Burger or Root Beer Float to spicy Calamari.

Dining as a party of three, another prominent local restaurateur taking a moment away from his growing empire to see what newly launched Stacked Hospitality has created, it was with drinks from a list ranging Hi to “No-Proof” that the night got underway, both the Creamsicle and Blackberry Rickey showing a keen-eye towards balance without Booze while a Pretty G&T packed quite a punch for something so smooth alongside two other iterations titled “Pure” and “Piney.”

Far more wallet-friendly than its former self, Appetizers ranging $10-18 while Entrees top-out under $30 for a ten-ounce New York Strip, it was in four courses that an a la carte order was served by a team led by Mr. Marsco and Assistant General Manager Marc Boutiron, the pace leisurely but appropriate with presentations already quite good for a place opened so recently.

Happily tearing into a warm Baguette with good Butter, a standard-bearer rivaling Bardot for the city’s best, it was alongside a tray of housemade Mustard and Pickles that the nightly Charcuterie Board arrived featuring Speck, Rillette and a chunky Pate plus Figs and Tomato Jam, each item just as good as what is found in Europe, as too was the classic Lyonnaise Salad and a vibrant Vegetable Terrine topped in Goat Cheese, Parsley Oil and bright Vinaigrette.

No doubt ordering an unlikely pair to follow, the Salt & Pepper Squid with Jalapenos and Chef Lopez’s Thai Chili Sauce tasty albeit a bit out of place, the Chef’s-Selection Foie Gras took a decidedly “Andre’s” spin by way of Crème Anglaise, Candied Almonds, Port and stewed Apples – the price of $18 an absolute steal considering both the portion and the quality.

Passing on a Choucroute Plat du Jour, though housemade Sausage was prominently featured in a substantial dish from which all three Encased Meats burst with flavor around warm Potato Salad, suffice it to say that the roasted Chicken is a surprise stunner with crisp skin and pronounced juiciness, the Lamb Shank perfectly cooked and portioned generously, though in need of a bit of finishing Salt to accentuate the Meat’s natural flavor.

Enjoying entrees with a side of fresh-cut Potatoes fried in Duck Fat with a touch of Garlic, the filet of Trout sent out gratis almost as good as Rochat’s famous Dover Sole alongside Green Beans and Hazelnut Butter, it was with a Double Espresso in hand that the table was prepared for a parade of sweets, Chef Alana’s Soufflé and Crème Brulee identical to those previously served on Las Vegas Boulevard at a fraction of the price.

Happily embracing both the Bistro and Bar concept, a classic Tart Tatin with perfect edges and a lot of Butter pacing step-for-step with a Soda Fountain Sundae or Strawberry Malt with three straws, more great bites were found in the zippy Lemon Tart while the Pot de Crème should satisfy even the most ardent Chocoholic, though the Chocolate Walnut Gateau undoubtedly steals the show with a complex interplay of Ganache and roasted Nuts folded in golden Pastry.

FOUR STARS: In many ways a departure from the past, though at the same time a sort of return to the technique-based cooking that makes French food great, Andre’s Bistro & Bar is off to a good start at a price-point now unencumbered by inflated Casino pricing, the days past undoubtedly important to Las Vegas’ culinary heritage with the future also appearing quite bright.

RECOMMENDED: Creamsicle, Charcuterie, Vegetable Terrine, Foie Gras, Roasted Chicken Breast, Artisanal Sausages, Apple Tart Tatin, Chocolate Walnut Gateau.

AVOID: The Braised Lamb Shank was underseasoned and although the Calamari is good, it simply feels out of place…as does the music which plays far too loudly at the center of the space.

TIP: Open Daily Monday through Friday, Lunch 11:00am – 3:30pm, Happy Hour 3:30pm – 6:00pm and Dinner 4:30pm – 10:00pm. Weekend Brunch from 10:00am – 3:30pm, Happy Hour 3:30pm – 6:00pm and Dinner 4:30pm – 10:00pm. Reservations available by Opentable with To-Go options listed online.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

https://www.andresbistroandbar.com/

Posted in Andre's, Andre's Bistro & Bar, Andre's Bistro and Bar, Bread Basket, Coffee, Dessert, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork, Souffle

January 28, 2017
2:08 PM
by: Uhockey

Off The Hook Fish N’ Chips, Las Vegas NV

Off The Hook Fish N’ Chips

Cajun Catfish Bites – 8 Crispy Cornmeal Breaded Catfish Pieces with Awesome Sauce

Hushpuppies – 6 Golden Deepfried Hushpuppies with Awesome Sauce

1 Chicken Strip with Ranch

1 Piece Cod, 1 Piece Whitefish, 1 Jumbo Buttterfly Shrimp with Tartar Sauce and Cocktail Sauce

Loaded Mahi Mahi Fries – Grilled Mahi Mahi, Chips, Garlic Aioli, Pico de Gallo, Guacamole

Key Lime Pie – Vanilla Ice Cream

Noted during a disappointing visit to KoMex Fusion, the sign simply reading Fish N’ Chips from the road, a little research showed favorable opinions predominating for Off The Hook Fish N’ Chips at Flamingo Village, the locally-owned and operated store turning out freshly fried planks of Wild-caught Alaskan Cod alongside some more unexpected stuff.

Located at 4155 S Buffalo Dr, a weekend line at Babystacks only absent because arrival at the shopping plaza was after the breakfast hot-spot closed, entry to Off The Hook was greeted by a young man stationed behind a short counter in front of the open kitchen, “Dine-In or To-Go” given as options, the former selected as quiet IHeartRadio played overhead, just two-other tables filled as a driver from Uber-Eats arrived to take an insulated bag just a few miles up the road.

Hand-breading and frying a wide variety of choices to order, the laminated menu augmented by blackboard specials as well as weekday deals, it was largely a la carte that a collection of eight different items were selected at a cost of just $33.48, an online coupon slicing the cost nearly in half and generating nearly sub-Long John Silver’s pricepoint for far superior food.

Soon joined by an entire team of Little Leaguers and their parents, the small storefront immediately filled past capacity, it was as if sensing the sudden surge that the entirety of the order was brought forth, first taste of the Cornmeal-crusted Catfish bites proving flavorful even before a bath in “Awesome Sauce” that added a lightly acidic zip and just a hint of heat.

Sparsely decorated and low-ceilinged, thus prone to getting pretty noisy when filled by a dozen pre-teens plus a continuous flow of traffic coming and going with orders, Hushpuppies unfortunately featured too much surface area compared to center to avoid tasting oily, no such issue found in two small Chicken Tenders substituted for one, though the flavor of the Breast was lacking compared to spots focusing on Poultry instead of Seafood.

Turning attention to the main event, the Gluten-free Batter with little more than a touch of Salt and Pepper perceivable as seasoning frying up golden around moist Whitefish with flaky Wild-caught Cod deserving of the $2 upcharge, Butterflied Jumbo Shrimp seem a bit overcharged at $2.99 a piece, though those opting for one of the Combination Platters will assuredly score a far better deal.

Liberally adding Malt Vinegar, though others may prefer to spice things up with one of two Hot Sauces or to veer American by way of Ketchup, Tartar or Cocktail Sauce, Off The Hook’s “Chips” see a significant upgrade by way of the “Loaded Mahi Mahi” special, even a half-order presenting a substantial amount of fried Spuds topped in grilled Fish, Garlic Aioli and Tomatoes with a sidecar of creamy Avocado.

Not particularly craving Fair Food, both Oreos an Twinkies available battered and deep-fried, dessert consisted of a small triangle of Key Lime Pie with a small cup of Ice Cream, the bright Citrus mellowed by an all-butter crust plus a ribbon of Whipped Cream.

THREE AND A HALF STARS: Featuring neither a fee-per-appearance celebrity Chef name nor a multi-million-dollar floorplan, Off The Hook Fish N’ Chips feels far more ‘British’ than anything dreamed up by Harrah’s or MGM Resorts to target tourists, the menu generally successful even when taking some chances while also offering a whole lot more value and less parking hassle.

RECOMMENDED: Wild-caught Cod, Loaded Mahi Mahi Fries, Cajun Catfish Bites.

AVOID: Hushpuppies, Chicken Strips.

TIP: $15 off $30 coupons available at Restaurant.com.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.offthehooklv.com/

Posted in Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Nevada, Off The Hook, Off The Hook Fish N’ Chips

January 28, 2017
6:32 AM
by: Uhockey

Donut Mania [2,] Las Vegas NV

Donut Mania

Apple Fritter

Glazed Classic Cake

Glazed Chocolate Cake

Buttermilk Bar

Cereal

Raised & Glazed

Maple Longjohn

Strawberry Sprinkles

Boston Cream

Wafer Banana Cream

Raspberry Filled

Lemon Cream

Key Lime

Strawberries & Cream

White Cream

Chocolate Cream

Cookies N’ Cream

The Nevadan – Coconut, Caramel, Cream

Visited early on, an adverse experience with ownership delaying a second, better, trip to the Henderson store, it was largely because of location that Saturday featured a return to Donut Mania on South Durango, the selection far less creative than what was expected with some inconsistency in the dough but generally good execution.

Now serving residents in the Southwest for two years, a short stint supplying Pawn Donuts ended by the predictable closing of such a misguided idea, it was just prior to Seven o’clock that the smell of flour and yeast greeted the nostrils as some twenty choices sat looking out from behind glass, the Fritter available in only one flavor while the rest ranged from classic to novel flavors.

Staffed by just one young lady, her pleasant demeanor enlivening a small space that still feels a little worn, it was as result of a coupon offering ten bucks off a twenty dollar purchase that nineteen selections were made, a double order of the Strawberries & Cream fortuitous as the wispy raised base was one of the best as Whipped Cream contrasted with smooth Vanilla Pudding innards.

Unfortunately finding the un-filled Yeasted collection erratic, some such as Homer Simpson’s favorite light and fluffy while the Longjohn and Cereal were undercooked and oily, respectively, Donut Mania’s Cake choices were highlighted by the Classic version as a Buttermilk Bar lacked the expected sour notes while the Chocolate one had lingering finish that tasted too much like unsweetened Cocoa Powder.

Finding improvement in the filled options, though the Chocolate Cream suffered similarly to the Cocoa Ring, better bites were found particularly amidst the Fruit choices, the Wafer Banana Cream a spot-on representation of the Southern Pudding in a portable pocket while both Key Lime and Lemon were tangy without overdoing it thanks to both the filling itself and the well-thought condiments on top of them.

Finding the Apple Fritter far too greasy, though admittedly more dense with Fruit than most local competition, Donut Mania’s “Nevadan” once again proved worth both the calories and getting out of bed early for as the sticky Caramel topping pairs well to the toasted Coconut and Custard within.

THREE STARS: Slipping a bit compared to my Henderson experience, the consistency a serious issue considering the fact that there were no previously-unseen choices available, Donut Mania remains a good choice for those nearby looking for novelties, though Pink Box has upped their game considerably while also continuing to innovate as Ace continues to set the bar high for classics.

RECOMMENDED: The Nevadan, Strawberries & Cream, Key Lime, Wafer Banana Cream, Glazed Classic Cake.

AVOID: Mostly anything Chocolate and Unfilled Yeasted/Raised Rings.

TIP: $10 off $20 purchase available via Restaurant.com while Social Media Check-Ins also offer deals.

www.donutmanialv.com/

Posted in Breakfast, Dessert, Donut Mania, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada

January 21, 2017
6:31 PM
by: Uhockey

Charcut Roast House, Calgary AB

Charcut Roast House

Melted Cheese and Bread with Raclette, Housemade Butter Rolls

5oz Charcut Sausage Share Burger with Cheese Curds, Fried Egg, Beer Battered Onion Rings and Bone Marrow

Poutine with Truffle Gravy, Cheese Curds

Roasted Heirlooom Carrots with Yogurt, Dill Feta Cheese

Salted Caramel and Milk Chocolate Pudding Crunch

Warm Sticky Toffee Pudding with Bourbon Gelato

Driving back to Calgary from Edmonton it was with mixed feelings that I looked at my upcoming meal at Charcut Roast House, the restaurant considered Calgary’s best Steakhouse surely a nice place for dinner under most circumstances, but considering the last several days of great dining and a hometown where Steakhouses reign supreme a bit of a risk in terms of its ability to impress.

Booked several weeks in advance, the Flames versus Oilers Hockey Night In Canada Matchup well known to be the sort of event packing the restaurant full, it was at 5:55pm that I arrived for a 6pm seating, a tight table barely big enough for two-plates suggested as adequate with cold air from the doors wafting in occasionally and the loud hostess station providing a lot of noise, much to my chagrin.

Understanding the need to maximize capacity, though better two-tops are found throughout the restaurant including an elevated area with a good view of the kitchen, it was with menu in hand and Cocktails declined that I waited, and waited, for service – the young woman assigned to the section clearly stressed out by the pre-game rush while a tall, thin man wandered about with pursed lips and a look that could not have been interpreted in any way as indicative of pleasant guest service.

Not particularly blown away by the offerings, a lack of interesting cuts, Wild Game or Offal a bit different from what a perusal of old reviews suggests, it was after a bit of contemplation that an appetizer, two sides and an entrée were ordered, the former heard inappropriately and served after a lengthy delay by the tall man who visibly got more frustrated after he was informed of the error, storming away without a word and leaving me sitting again with nothing but water.

At this point half-debating walking out, the young woman returning with an apology and a pot of melted Cheese that would be stricken from the bill, the combination of Raclette and Parker House Rolls proved every bit as rich those familiar would expect from so much Milk Fat, the dish definitely something best to be shared and ideally alongside something to refresh the palate between bites, such as a Salad.

Told that Charcut’s house-blend Burger is something of a signature, the “Share Burger” sold by the ounce made of spicy Ground Pork on a robust Bun with stretchy Cheese Curds and an Egg, sides are added a la carte and offered Family-style, the thick-cut Onion Rings tossed with nuggets of Liquid Marrow definitely the most interesting choice while the Poutine and Carrots were both fine, though the majority of the Fries were limp.

Focused on a few signatures for dessert, a jarred Cheesecake the least intriguing of three choices, it was with rapidity that two selections arrived just as the restaurant began to clear-out for gametime, the Salted Caramel and Milk Chocolate Pudding Crunch essentially a Pot de Crème topped in Cocoa Pebbles Cereal while the Sticky Toffee Pudding arrived with Gelato already half-melted, the Booze doing a nice job of balancing the sweetness though the addition of raw Oats remains puzzling.

http://www.charcut.com/

Posted in Alberta, Bread Basket, Calgary, Canada, Char Cut, Char Cut Roast House, Charcut, Charcut Roast House, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Pork, Truffle, Truffles, Vacation

January 21, 2017
2:47 PM
by: Uhockey

The Donut Mill, Red Deer AB

The Donut Mill

Butter Tart

Apple Fritter

Orange Creamsicle

Vanilla Oreo

Ferrero Rocher with Nutella Whipped Cream

Maple Rolo

Rainbow Dip

Located in the small town of Red Deer, and difficult to miss thanks to an enormous windmill between Calgary and Edmonton on a road affectionately known as Gasoline Alley, The Donut Mill was bookmarked as a noteworthy pit stop on the way south on Saturday, the homey diner stylings found inside precisely what one might expect while the baked goods speak of a kitchen that has been doing their thing for a long time.

Technically sporting an address of 123 Leva Avenue, the more common nomenclature based on the fact that there is not much else to be found in terms of fuel during a three hour drive often fraught with snow, Saturday afternoon found The Donut Mill approximately 1/3 full just past 2:30, the fried dough surprisingly still being replenished as I stood behind an indecisive man ordering two dozen, a panhandler apparently well known to the staff asking every patron for spare change at the door and even entering and approaching tables, something that the locals seem to find humorous while those unaccustomed are left feeling rather uncomfortable.

Selling staple diner foods from the kitchen, the majority of them either fried or sandwiched in order to be taken on the road, it should come as no surprise that the focus of the restaurant is prominently placed in clear view of the door as patrons enter, a total of twenty-eight options including the Fritter available that day with additional housebaked goods offered near the register.

Taking time to weigh the options, staff exceedingly friendly even by Canadian standards, it was with six choices boxed plus a warm Butter Tart in hand that a seat was selected near the doorway, the Donuts quickly unboxed and photographed as a group before teeth cracked through a buttery shell and crunchy topping into the soft Sugar Custard that was just barely set on the inside.

Known more for their raised Donuts than Cake, the selection pretty consistent saved for a monthly special and occasional seasonal inspirations at the Holidays, it was with the simple Rainbow Dip that an opinion was originally formed on Donut Mill’s base, a wispy Brioche that does not pick up much grease and thereby remains light whether filled or glazed, the Frosting pretty basic stuff with quite a bit of sweetness.

Allowing the Apple Fritter to leaven more than most, the texture almost like Monkey Bread as nuggets packed with Fruit and Cinnamon were plucked off without much resistance, filled choices ranged in quality from the Orange Creamsicle with an artificial Tang-reminiscent aftertaste to the elegant Maple Rolo that paired mild Caramel Cream to Maple Fondant, the Vanilla topped Oreo-fluff pocket eating far lighter than one would expect while the Monthly Special was based on Italy’s famous Ferrero Rocher with grated Hazelnuts on top and a center packed with Nutella Whipped Cream.

http://www.donutmill.ca

Posted in Alberta, Breakfast, Calgary, Canada, Dessert, Donut Mill, Edmonton, Food, Red Deer, The Donut Mill, Vacation

January 21, 2017
11:10 AM
by: Uhockey

Cured Wine Bar, Edmonton AB

Cured Wine Bar

Panini – Focaccia, Slow Roasted Duck Confit, Pate, Cured ‘Signature’ Bacon and Cheddar with Tomato-Corn Bisque

Weekly Pancakes – Buttermilk, Dark Chocolate, Toasted Marshmallows, Graham Cracker Crumble, Maple Syrup

Located in an industrial marketplace south of Edmonton, the high-ceilings, laminate floors and porcine décor feeling a bit forced-hip, it was just past 11:00am that the rental Car’s GPS led me to Cured Wine Bar in a dense snow-fog, the weekend-only brunch service seeing the restaurant completely empty over the course of ninety-minutes, the servers very obviously bored yet still inattentive as the Bartender chatted with the Server while water sat unreplenished.

Open now for just a year-and-a-hallf, the morning meal a relatively new offering that sees the popular maker and purveyor of Charcuterie make the strange choice of all-but-eliminating its showpiece, it was after the server confirmed that only Jerky and a few slices of Pork were available that I half-heartedly decided on Soup and a Sandwich plus the weekly Pancake, the three dishes served simultaneously after what is still a mystery 45-minute wait.

Playing IHeartRadio overhead at a volume that might be ‘loud’ if more patrons were present, it was with Facebook and Instagram that the time was passed, the food that eventually did arrive set down with no description and a “can I get you anything else?” followed by a quick nod at the water glass.

Hoping the food was at least worth the wait, the prices admittedly a deal for food with great visual appeal and ingredients reported to be house-made, first bites of the pressed-Sandwich yielded the rich sapor of shredded Duck with crunchy bits blended to smooth Pate and slices of Bacon while the cup of Tomato-Corn Bisque was faintly sweet and left just short of velvety smooth thanks to golden kernels of Sweet Corn added at the end.

Admittedly lured in by the pictures of fluffy Flapjacks, the triple-stack of Buttermilk this week themed after a campfire favorite, Cured unfortunately makes the fatal mistake of serving the topping only on the very top, the added Maple Syrup helping a bit to make the soft bites beneath a bit more interesting since neither the thick Ganache or tiny toasted Marshmallows were easily moved from top to bottom while the Graham Cracker ‘crumble’ was more like a powder, and quite sparse.

http://www.curedwinebar.com/

Posted in Alberta, Breakfast, Canada, Cured, Cured Wine Bar, Dessert, Edmonton, Food, pancake, Pancakes, Pork, Vacation

January 21, 2017
8:45 AM
by: Uhockey

Moonshine Doughnuts, Edmonton AB

Moonshine Doughnuts at Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market

Hibiscus Rose

Pineapple Coconut

Blueberry Cinnamon

Birthday Cookie Crumble

Disappointed by Jelly Modern and the $5CAD Donas at Native Tongues in Calgary, Tim Horton’s Maple-stranglehold on Canada’s fried dough scene almost seeming like a monopoly by my ninth day in Alberta, it was with high hopes that I parked at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market and wandered seeking a small table labeled Moonshine Doughnuts, owners Matthew and Simon smiling behind a stack of boxes amidst locals shopping for Organic Produce and locally raised Meats plus several others selling baked goods.

Now in the business for almost five years, the couple as pleasant as can be in describing their passion for creating the best Doughnuts possible in small batches, Moonshine Doughnuts follows a unique business model that sees only four flavors offered each day with no singles, just boxes featuring one of each, for ten Canadian Dollars.

Obviously putting a lot of thought into their product, the Cake-based rounds and largely similar save for the glaze, this particular Saturday saw the duo offering flavors that were surprisingly bright considering the Sub-zero Celsius Temperature outdoors, the Hibiscus Rose tasted first as I assumed it would be cloyingly floral, a mistake on my behalf as sweetness was brought to the forefront with only a light perfume of Rosewater left to linger on the lips.

Toothsome, but not greasy, the Blueberry Cinnamon a minor exception as it seemed to have been exposed to the oil a bit longer than the rest, more subtle flavoring was found amidst the tropical Pineapple Coconut concoction featuring thin flakes that were un-sweetened and un-toasted, the Birthday Cookie Crumble saved for last everything that was expected of it with buttery bits of a rainbow colored Sugar Cookie embedded in a Glaze reminiscent of Buttercream Frosting.

http://www.moonshinedoughnuts.ca

Posted in Alberta, Breakfast, Canada, Dessert, Edmonton, Food, Moonshine Donuts, Moonshine Doughnuts, Moonshine Doughnuts at Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, Moonshine Dounuts at Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, Vacation

January 21, 2017
7:59 AM
by: Uhockey

Sugarbowl, Edmonton AB

Sugarbowl

Coffee

Cinnamon Roll

Cornbread

Chicken & Waffle – Buttermilk, Spice marinated Chicken Breast, Waffle, Maple Butter

French Toast – Brioche, Berry Compote, Whipped Cream

Located on 88 Avenue NW, truly an all-day eatery that is frequently filled to capacity from 8am until the calendar turns over to the next day, it was just minutes prior to opening on Saturday that I joined at short line in front of Sugarbowl, a number of idling cars occupying nearby street parking choosing to wait things out in comfort as temperatures hovered just below freezing.

Taking up a small space just south of the North Saskatchewan River, a lot of wood and exposed brick giving the room a rustic yet homey feel, it was immediately as the clock struck eight that doors were unlocked to welcome patrons, the bar at room’s center popular amongst regulars that were greeted by name while a tight two-top against the left wall is what myself and many others opted for.

Clearly knowing their clientele, several Cinnamon Rolls already lined up at the pass and ready to go, it was with pleasant greetings from a young woman that a menu was presented, the Bread Pudding offered at dinner not available during early morning making decisions simple, strong Coffee poured quick and refilled consistently throughout the meal.

Taking the opportunity to maximize the sampling, though limiting the order due to more dining plans to follow, it was with one of the restaurant’s signature Rolls plus a side of Cornbread that the meal was quickly underway, the latter which is intended to be served as part of a Benedict unfortunately a bit too dry without Butter and Honey while the unfrosted Loaf with a knife sticking out of it eats more like Coffee Cake than a spiral of Brioche, the Cinnamon-Sugar on the outside baked into a crust that penetrates deep down to the middle.

Impressed by the speed at which the kitchen works, the noise-level kept to a minimum compared to the dining room where bare walls reverberate every sound, it was only ten minutes after ordering that two sizable plates were presented with a “hope you’re hungry,” the French Toast decorated in stewed Berries and canned Whip immediately disappointing as the bread was not well-saturated with Custard and thus not significantly different from Bread out of the toaster while the Chicken & Waffles fared better thanks to the quality of the brine and spicy Batter, though the Waffles themselves were flaccid and no more compelling than the famous store-bought version from Kellogg’s.

http://thesugarbowl.org/

Posted in Alberta, Breakfast, Canada, Coffee, Cornbread, Edmonton, Food, French Toast, Sugarbowl, The Sugarbowl, Vacation, Waffle, Waffles

January 20, 2017
4:28 PM
by: Uhockey

Ampersand 27, Edmonton AB

Ampersand 27

Nibbles Board – Rabbit Rillettes / Foie Gras Torchon with Pistachio and Grape Gastrique / Bison Tongue / Elk Terrine with Cherries and Walnuts / Brie Cendre Des Pres / Cherry Moustarda / Cendre de Lune / Rainbow Carrots / Curry Cauliflower and Onions / House Rye Sourdough with Olive Oil

Gnocchi – 5 Meat Bolognese Sauce, Roasted Bone Marrow

French Press – House Blend Light Roast

White Chocolate Cheesecake – Pistachio, Poached Pear, Sponge Toffee, Oreo

Warm Apple Raisin Cake – Apple, Raisin, Salted Caramel, Sage Chantilly Cream

Toqued by Fan Zhang, the departure of Gold Medal Plates Award winner Nathan Bye for greener pastures apparently a theme on a Friday in Edmonton that featured lunch at Wildflower, it was just prior to five o’clock that I sat down in the spacious confines of Ampersand 27, the high ceilings decorated with twinkling lights, a fireplace and voluptuous furniture adding an organic element to a room designed to be sexy, particularly at night.

Attached to a hotel, and thus featuring a well-appointed bar where several gathered to chat and watch hockey games already underway out East, it was at a cozy table near the hearth that seating was offered as the dining room was as-yet quite empty, the service charming and casual, yet attentive, with a menu that offers plenty of choices whether the diner is interested in a full meal or just a few bites.

Breaking things down to Nibbles, Pizzas and Shared Dishes, the priciest item a $45CAD 12-oz Sirloin, most sitting down at Ampersand 27 will find eyes drawn to the central section offering a pick ‘em of Cheese, Charcuterie, Pickles and Bread listed by price and portion, an easy way to rack up costs though everything is housemade or well-sourced, the smooth Rabbit Rillettes and Elk Terrine studded with Nuts and Berries particularly noteworthy as items not seen often while the Canadian Triple-Cream Cheese was smooth and a bit more funky than versions from France with the light yellow Cauliflower also quite great.

Enticed by a Charcuterie topped Pie, Buttered Eggplant and Poutine, but unable to resist tender Potato Dumplings intermingling with roasted Bone Marrow topped in a rich Ragu made from Veal, Boar, Bison and more, it was with slow bites that I indulged slowly while debating more savories versus dessert, the three sweets offered and limited time before a game at Roger’s Place eventually leading to two of the latter alongside a French Press of Coffee that was brightly acidic with a linger of Stone Fruit.

Deconstructing one dish and veering surprisingly simple with the other, the round of Cheesecake a Choose-your-own adventure experience highlighted by warm Pears and Toffee that eats like Honeycomb Candy, those looking for a restaurant-worthy Quickbread will feel justified in dropping $11CAD on an Apple Raisin Cake that is nearly as moist as a steamed Pudding, the addition of fragrant Chantilly and a pool of Salted Caramel working nicely together to really make the flavors pop.

http://ampersand27.com/

Posted in &27, Alberta, Ampersand 27, Ampersand27, Bread Basket, Canada, Coffee, Dessert, Edmonton, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, Gnocchi, Pork, Vacation

January 20, 2017
11:31 AM
by: Uhockey

Wildflower Restaurant, Edmonton AB

Wildflower Restaurant

Elk Fettuccine – Braised Elk, Housemade Fettuccine, “Perfect” Egg Yolk, River Spinach, Natural Jus

Bacon & Bison Meatloaf – Alberta Bison, Goat Cheese, Bacon, Buttery Mashed Potatoes, Cauliflower, Snap Peas, Grand Marnier Demi

Sticky Toffee Pudding – Brulee Banana, Warm Toffee Sauce, Callebaut Chocolate, Espresso Ice Cream

Fancied as a power lunch spot by many of Edmonton’s best businesses, the recent rebrand from “Grill” to “Restaurant” better suited for a menu of New Canadian cuisine that focuses on modern technique and recipes that range from inspired comfort food to pan-European dishes with subtle Asian flourishes, a noontime meal at Wildflower Restaurant at 107 Street NW was enjoyed in relative tranquility on Friday, the volume of FoH chatting with the kitchen staff a minor quibble in the setting of some good dishes.

Located inside a boutique hotel and doing its best to lure diners in with lunch specials and a local-seasonal menu, award winning Chef Nathan Bye’s departure for Ampersand 27 in 2014 yet to see the restaurant find a culinary voice as pronounced, it was after warm greetings at the podium that I was tucked into a two-person booth along an interior wall gazing towards the bar, the menu brief and allowing for choices, though the descriptions seem a bit loose when they include items like a meaty Pasta or fried Chicken under the heading of “lighter fare.”

Thankfully not bombarding patrons with loud music, but at the same time doing little by way of the hard woods and laminate floors to dull sounds from around the room, a brief wait for course one was spent perusing floral paintings from a local artist hung along walls, the aforementioned noodles soon to arrive with handmade ribbons of Fettucine topped in braised Elk plus a slick Egg Yolk with a few leaves of raw Spinach, the later doing little but adding a visual contrast and actually quite distracting when added to the hearty tangle.

Setting aside some of the unique dinner plates for a daily special, the dish described as Bacon and Bison Meatloaf featuring a good grind that saw a typically lean Meat fattened up for two indulgent slices, fans of the comfort food classic will be heartened to know that Wildflower’s version features both a crisp edge and moist center imbued with the brininess of Feta while the accompanying Vegetables including blistered Tomatoes do a nice job of balancing the richness of a dark Demi.

Told by the server that their Sticky Toffee Pudding was ‘legendary,’ a bit of hyperbole for a dish that is not featured on the online menu where the Strawberry Shortcake is called “signature,” it was with those words in mind that a small round topped in melting Espresso Ice Cream was dug into, the room-temperature skillet clearly just used for plating with the Popcorn and Blowtorched Banana proving a nice textural juxtaposition to a centerpiece that was sweet enough, but unfortunately a bit overcooked and dry in the middle.

http://www.wildfloweredmonton.com/

Posted in Alberta, Canada, Coffee, Dessert, Edmonton, Food, Ice Cream, Pork, Vacation, Wildflower Grill, Wildflower Restaurant

January 20, 2017
9:17 AM
by: Uhockey

La Boule Bakery, Edmonton AB

La Boule

Ginger Cookie

Spiced Apple Éclair

Almond Croissant

Apricot and Hazelnut Croissant

Cinnamon Brioche

Wild Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish

Filling a gap in South Edmonton, an area locals have suggested to be long in-need of culinary revolution, it was a disappointing visit to another Bakery & Café that saw me point the GPS straight to Jennifer Stang’s recently opened La Boule on 101 Street NW where a nine o’clock opening still did not see shelves stocked, several items still in preparation while the rest sat on a counter in back without labels.

Generally leery of late-opening eateries that seem unprepared for business, this situation further evident as both young women at the counter fumbled to properly describe pastries as one was being trained to use the register, it was with smiling patience that I stood focusing on a story in the local paper about Chef Stang’s training and relationship with her mother while I waited, the six items selected carefully boxed up and taken elsewhere to be eaten.

Taking the French term for Bread and applying it to everything from Viennoiserie to Brioche, with a particular fondness for Choux, those visiting La Boule early will find a wide variety of Eclairs and Croissants joined by Cookies, Danishes and small Tarts, the Gingersnaps featuring a strip of the candied Root atop a soft base impressively spicy with sweetness imparted by the surface sprinkled in Granulated Sugar.

Next turning attention to an Éclair, one of nearly a half-dozen flavors available that day, ample notes of Cinnamon and Fruit came across beneath light Cream and Pastry that broke cleanly, the Cinnamon Brioche unfortunately a bit dry on the interior despite a good amount of butter, a small misfire that makes one wonder whether that particular batch had been exposed to a bit too much time in the oven that morning.

One-upping the Cinnamon Roll dramatically with other laminated pastries, the high quality of their fillings no doubt credited with an assist, eschewing Frangipane for ground Almonds sees La Boule offer Edmonton’s best Almond Croissant by a significant margin as the outside shatters to yield soft layers packed with sweetness and Butter, the Apricot-Hazelnut version going one step further by adding Fruit compote that still yields no sog while the Wild Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish eats a bit softer, though the high quality of the small Berries speaks volumes about the owner’s commitment to excellence and the strong likelihood that this place will only continue to improve.

http://laboulebakery.ca/

Posted in Alberta, Breakfast, Canada, Croissant, Dessert, Edmonton, Food, La Boule, La Boule Bakery, Vacation

January 20, 2017
7:49 AM
by: Uhockey

District Café & Bakery, Edmonton AB

District Café & Bakery

Cinnamon Roll with a Side of Icing

Blueberry Almond Muffin

Molasses Cookie

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Pain au Chocolate

Warm Rice Pudding with Coconut Milk, Orange Zest, Sauteed Strawberries, Blueberries

Located near the Capitol, where trees still-hung with Christmas lights greet early morning commuters to a traffic jam and prohibitive parking rules, District Café & Bakery was an easy choice for breakfast after its sister Little Brick provided some excellent French Toast and Rice Pudding just 21-hours prior, the baking here much improved compared to the Café and General Store concept, though the office building space lacks the charm.

Owned by Nate Box, both his cadre of local restaurants and the floorplan of District Café & Bakery recently expanded, it was with several suits enjoying Lattes along with the daily news that I entered the lengthy space with a long counter of Pastries and to-go choices, dine-in orders placed through a hirsuit young man in flannel before taking a seat, the five baked goods quickly placed before me with another comforting bowl of warm Rice Pudding soon to arrive, this time with fresh Berries as opposed to Little Brick’s Apples.

Seeing cookies fresh from baking sheets being placed on shelves as I’d waited in line, and thus happy to give them a chance even though the Oatmeal-Chocolate Chip failed to wow before, this version was slightly improved by way of more Chips and a softer center, the richly spiced Molasses round far more successful as it offered a whole lot of stretch beneath the exterior lightly dusted in granulated Sugar.

Generally pleased by a Pain au Chocolate, the still-warm center gooey while laminated layers packed a lot of butter but not much flaky crunch, District’s Blueberry Almond Muffin trumped the Scone from Little Brick in terms of texture expectations, though it was still slight on Fruit, while the Cinnamon Roll served with a sidecar of frosting featured a moist Brioche without a lot of intrinsic sweetness, thus allowing diners to customize it to their liking.

www.districtcafe.ca

Posted in Alberta, Breakfast, Dessert, District Café, District Café & Bakery, District Café and Bakery, Edmonton, Food, Vacation

January 19, 2017
8:18 PM
by: Uhockey

Block 1912, Edmonton AB

Block 1912

Brownie Cream Puff

Plum Crumble

Caramel Maple Pecan Tart

Located not far from The University of Alberta, a fact that is fairly obvious as throngs of 20-somethings pack the tables from opening until late night, Block 1912 seems a more polarizing place amongst those serious about food, an eight o’clock Thursday evening visit showing the well-stocked Dessert case genuinely appealing as relates to looks, though perhaps a bit less so in terms of taste.

Located on trendy 82 Avenue NW, the free-after-18:00 metered parking around it full of those visiting clubs, restaurants and lounges nearby, it was following a brisk walk in the chilly night air that I found myself perusing rows upon rows of Cakes, Cookies and Puddings, three of them more appealing than the rest with a small table near the library luckily opening up just as a smiling young server completed the plating.

Unable to warm items from the case without a wait, the space admittedly packed with just two women pulling triple duties as cashier, server and barista, it was not long after pictures were snapped that a fork pierced boiled frosting surrounding a pile of stewed Plums and buttery Streudel, the flavor unfortunately trending more sugar than fruit while the “Brownie Cream Puff” was an across-the-board failure, the base thick with low-quality chocolate while the Choux had turned soggy.

Told that Tarts were Block 1912’s highlight by a server elsewhere, the options ranging from Matcha to S’mores, it was with hopes of saving the best till last that I cracked through a crunchy Praline lattice atop a mound of smooth Maple Cream, the base a gooey pile of toasted Nuts and Brown Sugar that was downright decadent – a proper restaurant-quality dish for just seven Canadian dollars.

http://block1912.com

Posted in Alberta, Block 1912, Block1912, Canada, Dessert, Edmonton, Food, Vacation

January 19, 2017
7:08 PM
by: Uhockey

RGE RD Untamed Cuisine, Edmonton AB

RGE RD Untamed Cuisine

I’m a Doctor – Victoria Oaken Gin, Lillet, Honey, Lemon, Fresh Thyme, Rhubarb Bitters

Wood Oven Baked Whole Wheat and White Bread – Herb Butter

Grizzly Gouda & Potato Pierogies – Boar Bacon, White Onion Cream, Warm Cabbage Slaw

Goose Rillette Tart – Mascarpone Cheese, Grilled Pear, Roasted Onions

Hunter’s Stew – Bison Meatballs, Goose Offal Sausage, Potato Gnocchi, Mushrooms, Tomato, Wilted Greens, Brown Bread

Kitchen Board – Bison Sausage, Alberta All-Beef Corn Dogs, House Butchered and Cured Ham, Sylvan Star Gouda, Picked Carrots and Potatoes, House Mustard, House BBQ Sauce, Flatbread, Whole Wheat Bread

Scorched Honey Pudding – Canele and Butter Crumble

Pouding Chomeur – Skillet Cake, Honey-Caramel Sauce, Raspberry Ice Cream

Describing a restaurant as Untamed brings about a certain idea – images of Wild Game, Offal and Stews cooking over an open flame or in cast iron, for example – and it was with those thoughts in mind that dinner was booked at RGE RD Thursday evening, the space decorated in wood, brick and furs turning out good food, even though none of it is actually ‘wild.’

Opened by Chef Blair Lebsack in 2014, and garnering accolades as one of Canada’s best places to eat ever since, RGE RD began as a series of Farm Dinners that continue to be offered during warmer weather and despite going brick and mortar the focus of the concept remains whole-animal butchery and the region’s best produce, the nightly “RGE RD Trip” Carte Blanche expanding boundaries further, though the menu on this night seemed a bit too Coastal, thus giving added appeal to an a la carte order.

Featuring a refined-casual manner of service, the middle-age gentleman serving banquets along the wall clearly a veteran with extensive knowledge about the food and restaurant’s build-out, it was with warnings of “overordering” ignored that three plates plus housemade Breads and a board of Charcuterie were requested, the Maple burning around 380°C imparting a great bit of smoke in White and Wheat slices served with Herb Butter.

Explaining that even “wild” game in Canada must be farm raised, worries of contamination during dressing of field Meats as much a concern up North as it is back home, it was with an appropriately named Cocktail rife with herbal notes that the first appetizer arrived, two creamy pockets of locally produced Gouda and mashed Potatoes in a stone bowl with crispy Boar Bacon bathed in the creamy essence of Onions with next to lightly sweetened purple Cabbage.

Passing on a daily special of Kidney Pie due to the more appealing prospect of roast and shredded Goose Thigh plus its Liver in a crisp shell atop Mascarpone with Pears, my idea of what ‘untamed’ means was part-met by Hunter’s Stew served in a wide-rimmed white vessel, the lean orbs of Bison playing off funky sausage, melt-in-the-mouth Dumplings and a lightly acidic Broth with a small hunk of Rye Bread for dunking.

Not holding back on the Kitchen Board, a $29CAD wooden tray served after a brief tour of the Meal locker and kitchen, those looking for a sharable starter are strongly encouraged to inquire about nightly offerings, the big links of Bison Sausage and Alberta All-Beef Corn Dogs enough to provide a few bites of each to a party of four, though the house-butchered Ham was unfortunately a little overwhelmed by its Barbecue Sauce topping.

Unable to choose just one dessert, but cutting myself off at two due to one more restaurant visit planned for later, it is only in retrospect that I regret not going all-in for all five sweets as the Scorched Honey Pot de Crème with a slightly spongy Canele was very good, while the steamy Pouding Chomeur was the best dessert enjoyed during eight days in Alberta.

Home

Posted in Alberta, Bread Basket, Bread Pudding, Canada, Canele, Dessert, Edmonton, Foie, Foie Gras, Food, Gnocchi, Ice Cream, Pork, RGE RD, RGE RD Untamed Cuisine, Vacation

January 19, 2017
12:49 PM
by: Uhockey

Rostizado, Edmonton AB

Rostizado

Veggie Fundido – Sweet Potatoes, Portabello Mushrooms, Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Cream Cheese with Housemade Corn Chips and Flour Tortillas

Rosti-Puerco – Roasted Potatoes, Corn Tortillas, Pickled Vegetables, Chimichurri, Tomatillo Salsa

Pastel de Tres Leches – Butter Sponge Cake, Three Milks, Coffee Gelee, White Chocolate Shavings

Defying assumptions regarding the popularity of traditional Mexican food more than 4,000km from the border, first at Calgary’s Native Tongues Taqueria and then at Rostizado near the newly built Roger’s Place, Canada’s position as a cultural melting-pot even better blended than The United States was confirmed during a lunch gazing out on Edmonton’s ‘Neon Museum’ the lunch crowd surrounding me showing that the local population does not fear a bit of spice.

Opened by the same team behind local favorite Tres Carnales, the splashy space brightly decorated in Latin American style amidst reclaimed wood and bare brick extending back from the door, diners at Rostizado will quickly notice the restaurant’s focus on being ‘hip’ by way of youthful servers eager to explain the concept and how best to order, the ‘small plates’ and ‘everything is meant to be shared’ lingo truthful, though daily specials were omitted except for those who knew to ask.

Trending a bit more expensive than Native Tongues or traditional Mexican Spots, though not moreso than upscale concepts around America, it was with upbeat Mariachi playing that the menu was perused with three items ordered, the Veggie Fundido starter selected over its meaty counterpart thanks to the promise of four Cheeses and marinated Mushrooms with the flavor creamy yet robust whether atop housemade Chips or store-bought warmed Tortillas.

Passing on Tacones and desirable Molcajetes due to size, the Chicken on a Mole Torta missed out on thanks to the aforementioned issue with ‘daily specials,’ an entrée of meltingly-soft rotisserie Pork served with wrinkled Potatoes proved a bit less flavorful than one would hope even with the addition of Chimichurri or spicy green Salsa, the sopping wet quartet of Sponge Cake slices a far more impressive dish with sweetness curtailed by Espresso-scented Gelatin and a dusting of White Chocolate.

http://www.rostizado.com/

Posted in Alberta, Canada, Coffee, Dessert, Edmonton, Food, Pork, Rostizado, Rostizado by Tres Carnales, Vacation

January 19, 2017
9:22 AM
by: Uhockey

Little Brick, Edmonton AB

Little Brick

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Blueberry Lemon Scone

Rice Pudding – Organic Coconut Milk, Orange Zest, Almond Milk, Apples

Potted French Toast – Soft Molasses Whip, Maple Syrup, Fresh Apples

Located in a restored home in Riverdale, everything around it residential with ample street parking available, save for all the snow, Little Brick is owned by the group behind District, Burrow and Elm Cafés, the layout one part counter-service and kitchen with the rest offering cozy seating and a general store.

Utilized as everything from an event space to an outdoor patio offering escape from the world outside, the walled-off space featuring an organic Herb Garden during warmer months, patrons visiting Little Brick find themselves led around back to enter a wood and white room lined with locally crafted items, the menu a well-culled list of simple, delicious fare.

Embracing local-seasonal concepts, those ideas admittedly limited when the temperature outdoors is sub-zero Celsius, it was after brief perusal that two pastries plus a bowl and a plate were selected, the Scone unfortunately more of a Drop-Biscuit without a lot of Fruit or Butter pockets while the Oatmeal-Chocolate Chip Cookie also lacked for mix-ins, though the crisp rim and soft center were nicely done.

Known for the Breakfast Sandwich and intriguing with house-cured Gravlax, it was nonetheless that sweeter things were selected to better suit my personal preferences, the Rice Pudding a creamy concoction perfumed with sliced Apples and Citrus that was so good I ordered it again at District the following day while “potted” French Toast was actually served in a large bowl Bread Pudding-style atop a pool of pure Maple Syrup and heavy Cream whipped with Molasses.

http://littlebrick.ca

Posted in Alberta, Bread Pudding, Breakfast, Canada, Edmonton, Food, French Toast, Little Brick, Vacation

January 19, 2017
8:37 AM
by: Uhockey

Portuguese Canadian Bakery, Edmonton AB

Portuguese Canadian Bakery

Baccala Fritter, Chicken and Vegetable Ball, Shrimp Fritter

Portuguese Egg Custard

Coconut Sweet Bun

Tradicional Nanaimo Bar

Peanut Butter Nanaimo Bar

Apple Fritter

Bolo de Balacha

Caramel Custard

Orange Pastry

Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake

Serving an ethnic community on the outskirts of Edmonton since 1996, Portuguese Canadian Bakery on 118 Avenue NW does double duty as a grocery store for popular ingredients both imported and domestic while turning out a wide variety of Breads and Pastries shoppers will rarely find anywhere else.

A spacious store with a small seating area, the bulk of its retail space lined with shelves and refrigerators containing everything from Cereal to Salt Cod as the area not visible turns out nearly sixty baked Pastries and Breads daily, those willing to lose themselves in curiosity will be tempted to over-order by a large amount, the servers happy to explain traditional choices though English is limited.

Offering a few hot dishes and sandwiches, perhaps not everyone’s style at 8am but irresistible to others, Breakfast began with three Fritters packed with Meat including one with buttered Shrimp and another stuffed with shredded Baccala, the Chicken unfortunately fried for a bit too long and thus coming across a bit oily.

Assuming early arrival would be beneficial, and proven correct by a jiggly Egg Custard in Puff Pastry that was still warm to touch, the savory notes extended to the Coconut Sweet Bun that had a light salinity beneath the Glaze, a Fritter chock-full of Apples soft but not greasy, almost like a fried Danish, clearly crafted for those seeking more Canadian sorts of indulgence.

Showing dual-citizenship by way of a Custard, Cream and Chocolate Nanaimo Bar, plus several additional flavors that replaced Vanilla with everything from Peanut Butter Cream to Mint, the Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake unfortunately tasted a bit bitter with a spongy dryness throughout, the layered Bolo de Bolacha far more successful with crunchy Maria Cookies divided by creamy Coffee Cream and Cinnamon flavors.

Rounding out the morning with two dense discs that resemble Egg Custard without the Crust, one labeled as Caramel and the other Orange, those who are fans of Flan should seek these out as they are a little starchier but still just as luxurious, the orange especially memorable thanks to the natural poignancy of its flavor.

https://www.facebook.com/portuguesecanadianbakery/

Posted in Alberta, Breakfast, Canada, Coffee, Dessert, Edmonton, Food, Portuguese Canadian Bakery, Vacation

January 18, 2017
6:50 PM
by: Uhockey

The Hardware Grill, Edmonton AB

The Hardware Grill

Warm Bread and Olive Oil

Crispy Duck Confit – Yukon Gold Sweet Potato Hash, Twice Smoked Bacon, Mushrooms, Sage Cream, Veal Jus

Bacon-Wrapped Elk & Slow Braised Beef Rib – Potato- Bacon Pie, Butternut Squash, Beet Chutney, Cabbage, Raspberry-Ermite Reduction

Warm Prairie Gingerbread Cake – Rhubarb-Saskatoon Berry Compote, Mango Ice Cream, Warm Caramel Sauce

Celebrating twenty years amidst the top tier of Restaurants in Western Canada The Hardware Grill from Chef Larry Stewart is a veritable institution for locals and visitors to Edmonton, the progressive Canadian Cuisine with a focus on roast Meats contributing to a theme of hammers and other toolbox items that neither contributes nor detracts from the upscale dining environment.

Clearly taking notes from similar restaurants throughout North America, the lighting muted and woods heavy with a sizable display kitchen, diners at The Hardware Grill will promptly find themselves greeted by servers that are rapid-fire and almost a bit ‘shticky,’ the Peter Luger style of selling guests on their opinion of what is ‘best’ treated as more important than personal preferences.

Priced commiserate to other Steakhouses throughout the area, a three-course meal without wine just under $100CAD including tax & tip, it was after some debate over Foie Gras vs a heavier entrée that decisions were made to begin with Confit Duck, the sizable Leg and Thigh crisp and succulent over a pile of crispy Potatoes studded with Bacon, the salt-content further concentrated by Veal Jus with only a touch of levity added by way of the seared Mushrooms and smooth Sage Cream.

Tempted by Duck once again as an entrée, but opting instead to go with the ‘signature,’ Chef Stewart’s Bacon-Wrapped Elk & Slow Braised Beef Rib continued the trend established earlier by way of a layered wedge of Potatoes and Bacon served as a supplement to the lean Loin and meltingly-tender Rib, the Chutney and Cabbage helping to refresh the palate between bites as the salting is, again, quite heavy.

Talked out of Butter Cake by the word ‘dry,’ something one would usually not associate with a dish regularly proceeded by the ‘gooey’ descriptor, it was on the recommendation of the server that Warm Prairie Gingerbread Cake was selected as an alternative, the thick wedge certainly not lacking for moisture but slipshod in its plating next to a pile of Rhubarb-Saskatoon Berry Compote with Mango Ice Cream that seemed completely out of place perched atop a now-frozen Sugar Cookie.

www.hardwaregrill.com

Posted in Alberta, Bread Basket, Canada, Dessert, Edmonton, Food, Hardware Grill, Ice Cream, Pork, The Hardware Grill, Vacation

January 18, 2017
4:15 PM
by: Uhockey

Bar Bricco, Edmonton AB

Bar Bricco

2013 Alois Lageder Gewurztraminer

N’Duja & White Anchovy Crostini, Fennel, Parsley, Red Onion

Eggs Moliterno ‘Cacio e Pepe,’ Black Truffle, Crostini

Fonduta Agnolotti Dal Plin, Sage Butter, Parmigiano

Housemade Porchetta with Rosemary, Garlic and Fennel with Grissini, Focaccia and Warm Bread

Owned and operated by Daniel Costa, a man whose Corso 32 has topped the list of Italian restaurants in Canada for years, Bar Bricco was added to an overpacked agenda thanks to strong praise from chefs and servers at Pigeonhole and Anju, respectively, the swanky Wine Bar on Jasper Avenue proving a perfect environment for some early evening snacks.

Rooted in Italian heritage, both that of its Chef and many of the Meats and Cheeses used to craft its plates, entrance to the long 30-seater any time after sunset sees diners immediately immersed in a bustling environment with music thumping, the two bartenders largely charged with taking orders and doling out wines by the glass as Sputini and some larger plates slowly trickle from a kitchen in back.

Built with a focus on sharing, the lighting subdued and capable of making everyone look a little more glamorous, it was on the notes of bold and citrusy that a glass of 2013 Alois Lageder Gewurztraminer was suggested, slow sips seeing it pair well with a starter of spicy Calabrian Sausage and sliced Anchovies on Bread with shaved Fennel, Red Onion and Parsley.

An oddly paced restaurant, plates coursed out with significant gaps even before the space really starts hopping, it was unavoidably eavesdropping on two Women discussing the complexities of dating while pursuing a career in Law that nearly thirty minutes passed before the arrival of plate two, the airy pudding of Eggs Moliterno served with grated Cheese and Black Pepper further embellished by Winter Truffles while simultaneously served naked Cheese Agnolotti were cleverly served ‘fondue-style’ with a sidecar of herbal Butter designed for dipping.

Impressed by the affordable Wine List and imported ingredients, but far more intrigued by items made in-house, it was after sizing up the menu at my subsequent dinner reservation that a plate of Housemade Porchetta was added, the room temperature meat served with Bread warm from the oven offering a perfect ratio of fat and protein with a hefty endowment of Rosemary and Garlic.

www.barbricco.com/

Posted in Alberta, Bar Bricco, Bread Basket, Canada, Edmonton, Food, Italian, Pork, Truffle, Truffles, Vacation

Yun Nan Garden, Las Vegas NV

Andre’s Bistro & Bar, Las Vegas NV

Off The Hook Fish N’ Chips, Las Vegas NV

Donut Mania [2,] Las Vegas NV

Charcut Roast House, Calgary AB

The Donut Mill, Red Deer AB

Cured Wine Bar, Edmonton AB

Moonshine Doughnuts, Edmonton AB

Sugarbowl, Edmonton AB

Ampersand 27, Edmonton AB

Wildflower Restaurant, Edmonton AB

La Boule Bakery, Edmonton AB

District Café & Bakery, Edmonton AB

Block 1912, Edmonton AB

RGE RD Untamed Cuisine, Edmonton AB

Rostizado, Edmonton AB

Little Brick, Edmonton AB

Portuguese Canadian Bakery, Edmonton AB

The Hardware Grill, Edmonton AB

Bar Bricco, Edmonton AB

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