Modo Mio Rustic Italian Kitchen, Newport Coast CA

Modo Mio

Bread – Olive Oil, Balsamic

Marinated Mushrooms – Olive Oil

Bee Sting – Bar Hill Gin, Liquid Alchemist Ginger, Honey, Lemon, Bee Pollen

Short Rib Ragout – Short Rib Ragout cooked in Burgundy Wine Sauce, Handmade Pappardelle

Lasagna Carne – Handmade Spinach Pasta Sheets, Bolognese, Sausage, Herbed Ricotta, Marinara Sauce

Pignoli – Penne Pasta, Free Range Chicken, Broccoli, Sun dried Tomato, Pine Nuts, Modo Mio Sauce

Shrimp Scampi – Prawns sautéed in White Wine, Lemon, Garlic, Grilled Tomato, Arugula, Spaghetti

Osso Bucco – Veal Shank Braised in Red Wine Reduction, Saffron Risotto

Tiramisu – Ladyfinger Cookies soaked in Espresso, Kahlua, Mascarpone Cream
Lemon Cheesecake – Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake, Graham Cracker Crust
Spumoni – Chocolate Gelato, Cherry Gelato, Pistachio Gelato, Chocolate Shell

Espresso

Part of the Crystal Cove Promenade Modo Mio Rustic Italian Kitchen has gained popularity amongst locals for health-conscious Northern Italian cuisine made without the use of Butter or Cream, owner Gian Franco Bertolino having unfortunately failed the same concept in Pacific Palisades.

Attended for a post-engagement dinner with fifteen guests, a lingering party delaying entry for several minutes, it was at a long table in the window that the party was seated to complimentary Bread and Mushrooms presented by an affable staff.

Crowded but inviting, the sort of place it seems Real Housewives might dine at lunch, Appetizers and Entrees tread fairly basic terrain though prices seem quite fair for things like jumbo Shrimp Scampi or Lasagna featuring Housemade Pasta and convincing Bolognese Sauce.

Less impressed by Short Rib Ragout, a lack of complexity despite tender Beef and the reported us of Burgundy Wine, better bites come from Penne with Chicken and Broccoli in Tomato-tinged Pesto plus Saturday-only Osso Bucco over creamy Risotto.

Not offered a Dessert menu, the attendees of honor instead given three sweets on a platter that was passed around, none were particularly impressive though the Ricotta Cheesecake did match well to the remaining sips of a modernized Bees Knees.

www.modomiorusticitaliankitchen.com

Posted in Bread Basket, California, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Italian, Modo Mio, Modo Mio Rustic Italian Kitchen, Newport Beach, Newport Coast, Orange County, Pork, Tiramisu, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hans’ Homemade Ice Cream, Santa Ana CA

Hans’ Homemade Ice Cream

Vanilla Caramel Wafer Ice Cream, Butter Pecan Ice Cream, Waffle Cone

Serving Orange County from their Santa Ana location since 1972 Hans’ Homemade Ice Cream prides itself on making every flavor on-site, a use of Cream from local dairies imparting good density in classic flavors one is unlikely to find at spots like Wanderlust or Jeni’s.

Unfortunately not offering tastes, arrival just past 1:30pm finding two staff members baking Cookies without any other patrons present, $7.70 yielded two scoops including Butter Pecan with less sweetness than most plus Vanilla Caramel Wafer that adds bits of textural variance to traditional swirl.

www.hanshomemade.com

Posted in California, Dessert, Food, Hans' Homemade Ice Cream, Hans' Homemade Ice Cream Santa Ana, Ice Cream, Orange County, Santa Ana, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Quán-Mii, Fountain Valley CA

Quán-Mii

Rice Paper

Cafe Den Nong & Lanh – Vietnamese Coffee

Cuon Tom Thit – Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Bánh Xèo Dặc Biệt Quán-Mii – Crepe, Pork, Shrimp, Squid

Located on Brookhurst in Fountain Valley, the original location part of Bolsa Mini Mall in Westminster, Quán-Mii specializes in Turmeric-spiced Rice Batter Crepes known as Bánh Xèo in a bustling but sparse space frequently found with a line.

A recipe born in the streets, though in Orange County most consider Quán-Mii the best, guests can expect brisk service after a short wait where most patrons order in Vietnamese and plates arrive in less than fifteen minutes.

Awarded as one of the 100 best bites in Orange County, the eponymous Bánh Xèo Dặc Biệt arriving full of Sprouts, Pork, Shrimp and Squid, first bites show-off the light sweetness of Coconut Milk before delivering a complex blend of textures and flavors.

Not forgetting better-than-average Spring Rolls, a side of housemade Sauce igniting the palate, Iced Vietnamese Coffee proves well-suited to cleanse the palate between bites whether one chooses to indulge with a fork and knife or to roll the Crepe and its fillings into soaked Rice Paper with included Herbs and Vegetables.

Posted in California, Coffee, Food, Fountain Valley, Orange County, Pork, Quán-Mii, Quán-Mii Fountain Valley, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Tacos Y Birria “El Guero” (West Edinger Avenue,) Santa Ana CA

Tacos Y Birria “El Guero”

Horchata

Carne Asada Taco, Al Pastor Taco, Chorizo Taco, Tripa Taco, Suadero Taco

Quesabirria Taco

Begun as a Food Truck, but now brick-and-mortar with four locations in Santa Ana, Tacos Y Birria “El Guero” has been offering a taste of Michoacán in Southern California since 2002.

Owned by Rosalba Flores and Auden Lucarero, their location on West Edinger Avenue frequently sold out of signature Birria de Chivo by noon, guests line up in a space nearly exclusively operating in Spanish where counter-orders are followed by a brief wait with trays called out by number.

Priced appropriately for Orang County, $3-$4 per Taco, options include juicy Suadero or crisp Tripe loaded onto double Corn Tortillas, though the best bites come from fragrant Al Pastor and soaked Goat Meat sandwiched by melted Cheese.

Posted in California, Food, Orange County, Pork, Santa Ana, Tacos Y Birria "El Guero", Tacos Y Birria "El Guero" West Edinger Avenue, Tacos Y Birria El Guero, Tacos Y Birria El Guero West Edinger Avenue, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Fat Sal’s Deli (Fremont Street,) Las Vegas NV

Fat Sal’s

#1 Shake – Chocolate ice cream, peanut butter, marshmallow fluff, roasted peanuts, sea salt

#2 Shake – Coffee ice cream, shaved dark chocolate, smashed pretzels

Cannoli Fat Shake – pistachio ice cream, chocolate-dipped cannoli, cannoli cream, crumbled cannoli shell, chopped pistachio, whipped cream

Fat Sal – Thinly sliced ribeye steak, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, fries, brown gravy, mayo, garlic hero

Fat Banh Mi-Ki – Sweet & spicy soy-marinated thinly sliced ribeye steak, onion rings, pickled vegetables, Szechuan slaw, tomato, jalapeños, cilantro, teriyaki glaze, sriracha, mayo, garlic hero

Pepperoni Pizza Burger – provolone, grilled pepperoni, mozzarella sticks, marinara sauce, garlic buttered bun

Stromboli Fries – ham, pepperoni, salami, provolone, mozzarella, marinara

Philly Cheesesteak Fries – Philly cheesesteak, grilled onions, cheddar, mozzarella

Fat Cookie – salted chocolate chip cookie, red velvet cookie stuffing, cream cheese frosting

Referencing New York roots, but born out of LA, Fat Sal’s offers outlandish Sandwiches, Shakes and Fries in a casual environment now slowly expanding to Sin City and additional major metropolitan areas.

Owned by friends Josh Stone and Sal Capek, with financial backing by Jerry Ferrara of HBO’s “Entourage” since 2010, the group’s first Las Vegas location recently debuted on Fremont in the midst of all the madness near the East end.

Debuted on 9/11/24, a soft-opening preceding, it is inside a shared space with rap blasting that guests are invited to choose overstuffed Shakes, Fries and overstuffed Sandwiches ranging from an $18 Fat Sal to the $99.99 Big Fat Fatty featuring thirty inches of Burgers, Steak, Pastrami, Bacon and more.

Open daily at 11:30am, till midnight on weekdays and 2:00am on weekends, service is friendly albeit new and Food comes out hot whether it be a Pizza Burger on its Potato Bun or the exceptional riff on a Bahn Mi using Ribeye with Onion Rings.

Less impressed by fried Potatoes, mostly limp even in areas not buried by toppings, fans of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” may consider The Fat Jerry before ending their meal with a thick Milkshake or Fat Cookie that stuffs Chocolate Chip Dough with Red Velvet and Cream Cheese Frosting.

www.fatsalsdeli.com

Posted in Coffee, Dessert, Fat Sal’s, Fat Sal’s Deli, Fat Sal’s Deli Fremont Street, Fat Sal’s Fremont Street, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Purple Potato Bakery [25], Las Vegas NV


Purple Potato Bakery

Pistachio Chocolate Strawberry Brioche Donut

Pistachio Brioche Donut

Ube Coconut Cashew Brioche Donut

Butterscotch Brioche Donut

Almond Yema Brioche Donut

Leche Flan Brioche Donut

Ube Burnt Cheesecake

Berry Burnt Cheesecake

Ube Custard Pie

Young Coconut Pie

Cheese Ensaymada

Ube Ensaymada

Risen like a phoenix from the ashes of Ramir Bolanos DeCastro’s beloved Purple Potato it is as a Bakery that the former Yonaka Chef’s legacy continues to grow via Donuts, Cookies, Ube-based treats and Filipino Pastries.

Previously offered for delivery or takeout only, but now brick and mortar at 6370 W Flamingo Rd #20, it was Tuesday that fifteen items were procured for tasting and shared by a group during workhours.

Never actually gone from the local food scene, the rebranding of Yonaka and Purple Potato followed by a consulting gig at McCarran, Chef DeCastro’s current lineup continues with Croissant, Ring and Polvoron Bismarck Donuts, this day featuring a dozen varieties ranging from Pistachio to Butterscotch and several styles featuring Flan.

Also bringing back the Ube Coconut Cashew Brioche for cooler weather, plus new items for each holiday, fans of Cake will be delighted to know Ramir recently added Ube Basque Cheesecake as well as a version topped with Berries.

The only place in town for Ensaymada, traditional Cheese or Ube Cream, additional specials such as the Tres Leches Cake and Cookies sell out early for good reason even though the Buko Pie remains Purple Potato’s best item.

www.purplepotatolv.com

Posted in Breakfast, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Purple Potato, Purple Potato Bakery, Purple Potato by Chef Ramir, Purple Potato by Yonaka, Purple Potato Sweets, Purplee Potato Sweets Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Florentine Cafe [2,] Las Vegas NV

Sgrizzi Ristorante & Bar by Chef Marc

Sfogliatelle

Crookie

Almond Cornetto

Pan Suisse (Brioche Svizzera)

Pistachio Danish

Anyone familiar with dining in Las Vegas will know the name Marc Sgrizzi, his original location giving way to Pizzerias followed by a Trattoria and even a hotel venture prior to a new eponymous venture located on South Rainbow.

Self-taught, with over four decades of experience, Sgrizzi Ristorante & Bar promotes itself as a traditional Italian eatery while an attached market offers everything from import specialty goods to handmade Pasta and Desserts from Pastry Chef Roman Ritz.

Open for Dinner Tuesday through Sunday, the recent addition of Sunday Brunch from 9am to 2pm perfect for NFL football at the bar, it was on a Thursday prior to noon that a collection of Pastries were enjoyed and whether one selects better-than-average Cornetti or impressive Pan Suisse the real star are Sfogliatelle with faultless layers and lemony filling nearly as good as those in Naples.

www.sgrizzilv.com

Posted in Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Florentine Cafe, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Sgrizzi Ristorante, Sgrizzi Ristorante & Bar, Sgrizzi Ristorante & Bar by Chef Marc Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mama Surang Thai Kitchen [3,] Las Vegas NV

Mama Surang Thai Kitchen

Thai Iced Tea

Fresh Thai Spring Rolls – Rice Paper, Romaine Lettuce, Spinach, Cucumber, Carrot, Basil, Cilantro, Peanut-Hoisin Mayo

Thai Beef Jerky – Lettuce, Carrots, Soy, Garlic, Tamarind Sauce

Chicken Satay – Lettuce, Carrots, Peanut-Hoisin Mayo

Silver Noodle Salad – Glass Noodle, Chicken, Tomato, Onion, Carrot, Cilantro, Green Chili, Yam, Lime Dressing

Tom Kha – Lemongrass, Kaffir Lime Leaf, Galangal, Coconut Milk, Onion, Cabbage, Cilantro, Mushroom, Chili, Yam, Lime Juice, Shrimp

Chicken Yellow Curry – Turmeric, Cumin, Coconut Milk, Potato, Onion, Carrot

Beef Brisket Panang Curry – Fresh Chilis, Dried Chilis, Coconut Milk, Thai Basil, Green Beans

Crispy Fish Delight – Flounder, Red Curry Paste, Lime, Ginger, Bell Pepper, Green Beans, Basil

Tableside Wagyu Crab Khao Soi – Wagyu Beef, Crab, Coconut Milk, Soy Sauce, Fish Sauce, Egg Noodles, Crispy Noodles, Cardamom, Ginger, Turmeric, Dried Chilis

Basil Beef – Green Bean, Onion, Bell Pepper, Basil

Cashew Chicken – Onion, Green Onion, Bell Pepper, Dried Chili, Cashew Nut

Beef Pad Se Ew – Wide Rice Noodle, Broccoli, Egg, Soy Sauce

Shrimp Pad Thai – Rice Noodle, Bean Sprout, Green Onion, Egg, Peanut, Sweet & Sour Tamarind Sauce

Sticky Rice with Mango – Strawberry, Coconut Milk, Peanut

A longtime resident of Sun West Promenade Surang’s Thai Kitchen changed hands in Autumn 2023, the new name “Mama Surang Thai Kitchen” paying homage to its founders while cookery is now in the hands of a native of Thailand who worked with Alex Stratta and Guy Savoy.

Now back from their homeland after the pandemic, a husband and wife team with their children frequently helping out around the Restaurant, Mama Surang Thai Kitchen is found on Fort Apache between Hacienda and Russel with minimal signage but a welcoming atmosphere.

Far from lavish, minimal décor and a few tables filled by locals, Surang’s menu focuses on traditional Thai flavors with just a hint of fusion utilized to accentuate flavor without compromising high quality Ingredients.

Cooked to order in a small kitchen, take-out occasionally delaying service, guests are invited to begin with Iced Coffee or Thai Tea with Cream plus appetizers such as fresh Spring Rolls filled with crunchy Vegetables, Thai Beef Jerky or traditional Chicken Satay

Intended such that “every plate serves an experience,” a bowl of Tom Kha richer than that of Lotus of Siam or Weera, Surang’s Silver Noodle Salad at spice “Level 5” finds diverse textures accentuated by acid while fried Spinach is oilless and light.

Next offered “Crispy Fish Delight,” Flouder flash fried and teaming with Red Peppers amidst Beans with sharp notes of Ginger, Surang’s “Entrees” offer good depth of flavor whether Cashew Chicken or Basil Beef.

Making several styles of Curry each day, Chef’s suggestion of Panang with spoon-tender Brisket an absolute delight in terms of taste and texture, Yellow comes across a little flat by comparison while Pad Thai executes well without reinventing the wheel.

Impressing with Pad Se Ew, ribbons of Rice slicked in Soy with Beef and Broccoli, Tableside Wagyu Crab Khao Soi is a $35 “Chef Special” bargain while Dessert stays traditional featuring faultless Sticky Rice and a ripe Mango out of Mexico.

www.mamasurangthaikitchen.com

Posted in Crab, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Mama Surang Thai Kitchen, Nevada, Pork Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Leafs and Grounds, Las Vegas NV

Leafs and Grounds

Double Espresso

Bacon Empanada

Sausage Empanada

Cinnamon Apple Scone

Banana Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Scone

Maple Pumpkin Scone

Vanilla Chai Scone

Cream Cheese Danish

Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish

Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

Located in the shadow of Southern Hills Hospital Leafs and Grounds opened at the end of 2022, their popularity slowly growing by word of mouth attesting to Sin City’s best Scones and a locally grown feel that taps into Pacific Northwest Coffee culture.

A novelty in Las Vegas, the shop slowing things down compared to Dutch Bros or Starbucks and doing things their own way without a slew of influencers, guests arriving Tuesday through Sunday from 6am until 3pm will find a family owned spot with plenty of room to linger, work, and read.

Using Lavazza for a variety of Lattes and specialty Coffees, a proper grinder and Espresso machine attesting to doing things the right way, Pastries are made on-site by the Mother and children with a duo of Empanadas fully loaded beneath a golden shell while Danishes are so flaky that a fork and plate are mandatory.

Onward to Scones, flavors announced daily on Instagram, suffice it to say these aren’t the typical British rounds in need of Clotted Cream or Jam, but rather something like a layered Southern Biscuit loaded with Butter and complex flavors ranging from Maple Pumpkin to Vanilla Chai.

www.leafsandgroundscoffee.com

Posted in Breakfast, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Leafs and Grounds, Nevada, Pork Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Prince St. Pizza [2,] Las Vegas NV

Prince St. Pizza

Spicy Spring – Fra Diavolo Sauce, Pepperoni, Fresh Mozzarella, Pecorino Romano

Meat Lovers – Marinara Sauce, Pepperoni, Oven Roasted Sausage, Fresh Mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, Garlic

The Original Prince – Original Pizza Sauce, Shredded Mozzarella

Now with eleven locations and a twelfth coming soon Prince Street Pizza debuted in 2012, the New York outpost still standing where the Morano family first started slinging slices including their now-famous Spicy Spring.

Known for Neapolitan wedges and Sicilian “SoHo” Squares, the latter praised by many as amongst the best in Manhattan, it was late 2023 that Spring Street opened as part of Durango Casino’s “Eat Your Heart Out” food court with lines present ever since.

Available whole or by the Slice, prices ranging $4.95 to $6.50 each well above the average for a location so far from the Strip, it was after a brief wait that fifteen slices were loaded into a branded box and eaten warm so that quality wouldn’t be compromised beyond time on the rack.

Reportedly using “a water filtration process that replicates the water used in New York” to improve consistency, a dubious claim to anyone who understands science and the difference in humidity between Sin City and the East Coast, Spring Street’s Crust suffers from a lack of leavening and underdeveloped flavors covered up by housemade Sauce.

Starting with Spicy Spring, a dish that earns its name with fiery Fra Diavolo Sauce and thick-cut Pepperoni, the Morano’s Marinara unfortunately trends a bit too sweet in the case of Meat Lovers while The Original Prince compares favorably to other mid-level Pizzerias that get a lot less praise.

www.durangoresort.com/eat-and-drink/prince-st-pizza/
www.princestreetpizza.com/lasvegas/

Posted in Food, Italian, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pizza, Pork, Prince St. Pizza Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Summer House Cookie Bar [11,] Las Vegas NV

Summer House

Cold Brew Coffee

Birthday Cake Cookie

Chocolate Chunk Cookie

Apple Oatmeal Cookie

Lemon Cookie

Cookie in a Cup

Confetti Cookie

Brown Butter Crispy Rice Treat

Peanut Butter Cookie

Oatmeal Scotchie Cookie

Chocolate Cloud Cookie

Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookie

Despite signage suggesting Summer House Santa Monica the location inside Durango Casino & Resort is actually Lettuce Entertain You’s first branch of the “California-inspired Restaurant” out west, and regardless of what might be inside the Cookie Bar out front is a sight for sore eyes.

Taking a Spago-esque approach to Market-fresh fare, think Pizzas and Pastas plus plates from an all-wood grill, it is for roughly $5-6 each that guests will find a dozen or more daily baked good including everything from classic Chocolate Chip with big dark chunks to Rice Crispy Treats with or without bits of Oreo in the mix.

A natural feeling space bathed in light, Rockwell Group taking on LEYE’s first off-Strip venture, guests not fond of Cocoa will find “Birthday Cake” far outpacing crumbl’s famous Frosted Cookie while both glazed Lemon and Peanut Butter eat soft and chewy within a gently crisp rim.

Recently impressing with an Oatmeal Scotchie, think crispy but sweet with just a bit of flex, Summer House’s Apple Oatmeal Cookie reminisces of Autumn Apple Crisp in portable form while the “Cookie in a Cup” offers bite-sized bits of the whole collection.

www.durangoresort.com/eat-and-drink/summer-house

Posted in Coffee, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Summer House, Summer House Cookie Bar Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Cookie Bar [6,] Las Vegas NV

The Cookie Bar

Monster Brownie – Chocolate Brownie, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cookies

Cinna-Doodle – Snickerdoodle Cookie, Cinnamon Cream Cheese

Birthday Cake – Vanilla Cookie, Homemade Vanilla Buttercream, Confetti Sprinkles

Beer Brownie – Guinness Stout infused Dark Chocolate Brownie, Irish Cream Frosting

Turnt Up Banana – Banana Cookie, Rum, Whipped Vodka Buttercream Frosting, Nilla Wafer

Snickerdoodle – Cinnamon, Pink Sugar

Suga Suga – Sugar Cookie, Vanilla Buttercream

Chunky Junky – Chocolate Cookie, Chocolate Chips, Chocolate Drizzle

Twisted Krispie – Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treat, White Chocolate, Wedding Cake Vodka, Sea Salt

Limoncello – Lemon Sugar Cookie, Limoncello, Lemon Buttercream

Crème Brulee – Sugar Cookie, Buttercream Frosting, Caramelized Sugar

The Nookie – Chocolate Chip Cookie, Pecans, Caramel Filling

Big Ohh – Oatmeal Raisin Cookie, Cinnamon

Buzz Kill – Chocolate Chip Cookie, Dark Chocolate Chips, Milk Chocolate Chips, Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

Tipsy Velvet – Red Velvet Cookie, White Chocolate Chips, Wedding Cake Vodka, White Chocolate Drizzle

Booze Munch – Rum infused Caramel coated Puffed Corn

Oreo Kitchen Sink – Chocolate Chip Cookie, Double Stuffed Oreo, Chocolate Brownie

PB Kitchen Sink – Chocolate Chip Cookie, Peanut Butter Cup, Chocolate Brownie

Chocolate Mojito – Chocolate Chip Cookies, Andes Mint, Chocolate Drizzle

A one time a Cannery West kiosk now turned online business The Cookie Bar continues to march on, Wendy Baumgartner’s passion for baking undeterred by the pandemic and her current collection full of more kitschy yet delicious creations than ever.

Available via online apps, Food Truck or at Special Events, the options easily customized online, Thursday featured nineteen options delivered to the office with individual packaging quickly discarded and a bag of buttered-sweet Booze Munch quickly gone in a few handfuls.

Featuring both virgin and kicked-up riffs on classic American confections, Big Ohh adding granulated Sugar to the top of an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie for texture, both ”Kitchen Sink” cubes deliver about 6oz of decadence with a Cookie and Brownie sandwiching Oreos or Reese’s.

Adding Wedding Cake Vodka to Tipsy Velvet and a heart-shaped “Twisted Krispie,” the later a masterpiece thanks to Sea Salt and soft notes of Cocoa, The Cookie Bar’s Sugar Cookies eat like crisp Shortbread with nuance added by Citrus in the case of Limoncello and torched Sugar atop Crème Brulee.

Going classic with Buzz Kill, while Chocolate Mojito’s Mint takes Chocolate Chip in a different direction, “The Nookie” stuffs soft Caramel into a Pecan-studded Chocolate Chip round for just $3 – the same bargain cost charged for “Turnt Up Banana” with a chewy Banana base infused with Rum and topped with Vodka Buttercream Frosting.

As homegrown (or perhaps homebrewed) as it gets, both a Cinna-Doodle and Monster Brownie new and decadent, the Baumgartner’s Cookie Bar should be on any the short list for anyone with a sweet-tooth and all the more so for those looking to support local businesses.

www.thecookiebarlv.com

Posted in Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, The Cookie Bar Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

El Tiempo Cantina (Navigation,) Houston TX

El Tiempo Cantina

Tortilla Chips with Salsa

Choriqueso

Corn Tortillas

Las Vegas Plate – Refritos, Cilantro Rice, Cheese Enchilada, Crispy Beef Taco, Chicken Fajitas

Born from the memories of Mama Ninfa’s Tex Mex the first El Tiempo Cantina on Richmond avenue opened in 1998, Ninfa’s son Roland Laurenzo and his own son Domenic having since expanded to twelve locations plus a thriving catering business.

Now with more than sixty years of experience defining Tex Mex cuisine, the space on Navigation Boulevard amongst the largest and most popular, it is inside that guests will find lively music playing amidst family photos, stained glass, wood and brick.

Offering an expansive menu, their Fajitas legendary across Texas, El Tiempo makes both Corn Tortillas as well as Chips on-site and although filling up on either would be easy a tableside presentation of stretchy Cheese with or without spicy Chorizo should not be ignored.

Visited solo at noon, Margaritas ignored this time around, instead of investing all remaining space in a sizzling plate of Fajitas the “Las Vegas Plate” instead delivered juicy Chicken Breast with Peppers and Onions alongside a hard-shell Beef Taco, sauced Enchiladas, Beans and Rice.

www.eltiempocantina.com

Posted in El Tiempo Cantina, El Tiempo Cantina Navigation, Food, Houston, Pork, Texas, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Original Kolache Shoppe, Houston TX

The Original Kolache Shoppe

Sausage & Cheese Kolache

Strawberries & Cream Cheese Kolache

Peanut Butter Cookie

Serving Houston since 1956 The Original Kolache Shoppe stakes its claim as “the birthplace of the Houston Kolache industry,” and under third-generation leadership from Kevin Dowd the small space in Bellfort continues to churn out fresh-baked Czech Pastries daily.

Fitted with limited parking and less indoor seating, a friendly staff taking orders then bagging goods and ringing-up guests seamlessly, it is at fair prices that most emerge with at least two yeasty Buns and Coffee from Zeppelin, though a jumbo Cinnamon Roll and Cookies are also offered.

Scratch made with nearly seven decades of experience it comes as no surprise The Original Kolache Shoppe nails the basics, dough carefully proofed and baked golden brown whether wrapped around Pork and Cheddar or supporting a puddle of Fruit in Cream Cheese.

www.originalkolache.com

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Koffeteria, Houston TX

Koffeteria

Mango Sticky Rice Danish

Black Sesame Mochi with Salted Egg Yolk

Double Thicc Chocolate Chip Cookie

Located in the former Vietnam Town section of Houston, now dubbed ‘Eado,’ Koffeteria from Chef Vanarin Kuch suggests it’s pastry to be influenced by the diversity of downtown even though a gay man born of Cambodian refugees is not likely the first thing most envision when thinking of Texas.

Famous after television appearances on Top Chef, plus success in New York and Chicago, Chef Kuch opened his first stand-alone space in 2019 and since that time accolades have continuously accrued for Pastry tuned to a global palate but fueled by a classic skill set.

Making waves with Hot Cheetos Croissants and Pho Kolache, a JBFA semifinalist nod soon to follow, Labor Day found Koffeteria off to a fast start with several items gone despite the website inexplicably failing to offer online ordering the day prior.

Limited to just three items despite an 8:30am arrival, the “Double Thicc” Cookie earning its name by way of Dark & White Chocolate plus a dash of Salt, fans of Hawaiian Mochi will find Kuch’s version featuring Coconut and Sesame a whole new take while a Mango Sticky Rice Danish defies logic by remaining crisp and flaky despite chewy rice and ripe Fruit at the center.

www.koffeteria.com

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Theodore Rex, Houston TX

Theodore Rex

TOMATO TOAST

SOURED PORK SAUSAGE, CHORIZO SPICES, GARDEN CUCUMBERS, LIME LEAF

SFORMATO OF HOUSE-MADE RICOTTA, BLOOMSDALE SPINACH, NUTMEG, CHARD, EGG YOLK

TAGLIOLINI WARMED IN CULTURED BUTTER, SEASONED WITH GULF OYSTER LIQUOR, MIGNONETTE

AGNOLOTTI STUFFED WITH RICOTTA, WARM CREAM, ‘MUSCADINE’ GRAPES

FROZEN DARK CHOCOLATE MOUSSE, MUSHROOM, MAPLE, LEMON ZEST

Although James Beard Foundation Award winner Justin Yu shuttered tasting menu-only Oxheart in 2017 his cooking remains innovative and exciting in its current form at Theodore Rex, named after the Chef’s nephew.

Located just off the highway in a converted building, Houston’s “warehouse district” living up to its name with few signs of activity Sunday evening, it is inside 1302 Nance Street that guests will find exposed brick and minimal adornment surrounding just twenty-eight seats.

“Relaxed fine dining” by design, Chef Frank Hermosilla overseeing an open kitchen that works in silence, Theodore Rex changes its menu frequently with Foo that is aggressive yet accessible and exotic despite its roots in local Ingredients.

Smartly staffed such that Chefs and servers all contribute to an experience best enjoyed at the counter, a 22% autograt assuring fair pay, most diners will begin with Yu’s famous Tomato Toast that spins “pan con tomate” as Butter-soaked Pain de Mie that’s brushed with Garlic and topped with Tomato Fondant plus a Salad of fresh Tomatoes.

Gulf-focused with Asian elements, Sour Sausage spiced like Chorizo balancing Cucumbers and subtle Citrus, Yu’s Ricotta finds itself lightened as crustless Quiche perfumed with Nutmeg atop chlorophyll alongside a creamy Yolk.

Less interested in large-format proteins than small-plates, though Toast-crusted Redfish ordered by a neighbor received raves, T.Rex’s Pastas shine brightly whether long ribbons flavored like dressed Oysters or filled beneath Cream and native Grapes.

Torn as relates to Dessert, a female server allowed to break the tie, fans of rich flavors need look no further than Mousse that eats lighter than expected thanks to flecks of earth and sour on a bed of thick Syrup.

www.trexhouston.com

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Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams (375 West 19th Street,) Houston TX

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

Bastani Sonnati, Burnt Orange Dreamsicle, Waffle Cone

From humble beginnings in the North Market to calculated nationwide expansion Jeni’s will always hold a special place in the heart of this Buckeye, every visit since senior year of college offering something new and delicious and on this sunny Sunday highlighted by Persian Saffron Rosewater juxtaposing a tart Push-Up Pop.

www.jenis.com

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Parlor Doughnuts, Houston TX

Parlor Doughnuts

Raspberry Pistachio

Churro

Vietnamese Coffee

French Toast

Known for their “Layered” Doughnuts, something along the lines of a Fritter made of Brioche, Parlor Doughnuts has rapidly expanded via a franchising from Evansville Indiana where the original opened in February 2019.

A concept from Darrick Hayden and Josh Tudela, the Heights location debuted late-2023, it is inside a room bathed by natural light that guests will discover fair prices and friendly service atop a menu able to accommodate most dietary restrictions or preferences.

Neither yeast nor cake, the pull-apart Dough more akin to a Croissant, each Parlor Doughnut is a lumpy mound topped by flavors running the gamut from bittersweet Vietnamese Coffee or fragrant Raspberry to sweeter Churros or best-selling French Toast.

www.parlordoughnuts.com/shops/houston-tx

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Hugo’s, Houston TX

Hugo’s

Coffee

Chicken Tamale with Green Sauce, Chiles Rellenos, Quesabirria, Corn Pudding


Hurachito with Brisket, Duck with Mole Poblano, Mushroom Soup, Snapper Ceviche, Palm Salad

Flan de Queso, Concha, Banana Pudding, Tres Leches, Arroz con Leche, Churros, Macaroon, Alfajores

Chicken Skin, Huitlacoche Quesadilla, Chicken Enchilada in Tomatillo Sauce, Chicken Chilaquiles, Brisket, Carnitas

Part of the Houston dining scene since 2002 Hugo Ortega’s eponymous Restaurant remains one of the Texas’ most highly regarded, the Beard Award winner and recurring nominee for Outstanding Restauranteur having expanded his reach without forgetting about the space that lunched his career.

Located in Montrose, an eclectic area full of galleries and vintage shops, it is on Sundays that Hugo’s converts from upscale dining to a Buffet Brunch complete with live music and no less than thirty savory options alongside an equal number of sweets.

Casting a wide net across the border, everything from fresh Snapper Ceviche to Duck Legs beneath smoky Mole replenished as necessary by the kitchen, service is friendly yet efficient whether refilling coffee, cleaning tables or describing Cocktails.

Home to a world-class cellar and Tequila selection, though Coffee proved prudent after a long day, highlights include Tamales made with house-ground Masa plus Birria de Chivo tucked inside cheese-lined Corn Tortillas.

Also impressed by silky Mushroom Soup, though a largely Hispanic crowd seemed more drawn to Chilaquiles and stuffed Peppers, fans of Texas Barbecue will find Ortega’s Brisket on par with most whether on its own or chopped atop a Masa base.

Housed in a restored 1925 building, two rooms packed to capacity, it was after three Vegetarian Quesadillas kissed by Corn Smut that the Dessert table shined thanks to Rice Pudding, tiny Alfajores, Pan Dulce and Tres Leches crowned by toasted cream with a texture like Meringue.

www.hugosrestaurant.net

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Truth BBQ, Houston TX

Truth BBQ

Brisket, Duroc Pulled Pork, Pork Ribs, Burnt Ends Boudin

BBQ Sauce

Corn Pudding

Pickles

Onions

Banana Caramel Cake

Olive Oil Cake

Banana Pudding

Originated in Brenham in 2015 many will cite Truth BBQ as the best in Houston, its current rank of #3 on Texas Monthly’s statewide list suggesting something even more from pitmaster Leonard Botello’s smoked Meats served from a sprawling space in The Heights.

Both traditional and inspired, Saturday’s Whole Hog taking notes from Carolina while Tater Tot Casserole and Corn Pudding step away from Beans, Mac’ and Slaw, savvy guests will make use of online pre-order to skip lines over an hour – though personal experience suggests front-of-house issues.

Homey despite the success, guests in gameday attire expected on College Football opening weekend, it was just past 2:30pm that staff was found struggling to keep pace, the pre-paid Tres Leches “sold out” and Brownies from the website “not made in months” leading to a bag packed with alternatives and minus a side of Casserole.

Unpacked on an indoor table, modern country at a dull roar overhead, it was after snapping a few quick photos that first bites thankfully showed why people line up as Truth’s Brisket packs a lot of Pepper around rendered fat and supple flesh while Ribs and Duroc Pork are each flavored well enough to be enjoyed without housemade Sauce.

Not forgetting Brisket Boudin, a Cajun masterpiece balancing Garlic with Burnt Ends inside a snappy Skin, sweets come from Janel Botello and baker Laquita Wilkins, the Banana Pudding offering unrivaled texture thanks to thick Cream while Olive Oil Cake (offered to replace more expensive Tres Leches) fell far short of Banana layers divided by Frosting and Caramel.

www.truthbbq.com

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