Pijja Palace, Los Angeles CA

Pijja Palace

Orange Cream – orange, vanilla, mace

Dosa Onion Rings – Lentil Batter, Mango Chutney

Aloo Tiki Hash Sliders – Cheese, Loccha Onion Salad, Hot Spread

Chili Garlic Toast – Garlic Chili Herb Butter, Pepper Jack

Jaggery Tamarind BBQ Wings – House Pickles, Curry Ranch, Yogurt Stilton

Nihari Lamb and Shells – Lamb Shoulder, Fennel, Sumac Yogurt

Kesar Rickshaws – Saffron, Parmesan, Indian Long Pepper

Malai Rigatoni – Tomato Masala, Cream, Coriander

Samosa Pijja – White Korma Sauce, Samosa-Spiced Potatoes, Tandoori Onions, Imli Chutney, Mozzarella, Parmesan, Peas, Mint Chutney

Cookies and Cardamom Soft Serve

Opened early 2022 as part of a Comfort Inn in Silver Lake Pijja Palace is most certainly an “Indian Sports Bar,” but instead of Cricket on a single TV and the same Butter Chicken as everyone else the Food from Miles Shorey and owner Avish Naran taps into “fusion” of the best sort.

Still one of Los Angeles’ toughest reservations, though the addition of Weekend Lunch has helped walk-ins nab a table if they arrive early, it is seated on stools or banquettes that guests peruse a concise menu of Pizzas, Bar Favorites and Pastas plus creative drinks both virgin and alcoholic.

The brainchild of Naran, an LA native who studied restaurant management at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York, Pijja Palace places fans at the center of a dozen or more Televisions and within minutes nearly every table is enjoying Jaggery Tamarind BBQ Wings served with housemade Pickles or cracking slices of Onion fried in Dosa Batter.

Served piping hot and aggressively seasoned, both Aloo Tiki Hash Sliders and Chili Garlic Toast not for the timid, service is “cool” but proficient whether filling water or describing why one would might want the hearty Samosa Pijja instead of Chef Shorey’s more famous Green Chutney version.

Not forgetting ample portions of Pasta, Malai Rigatoni with smoky Tomato Masala arguably over-Sauced but nonetheless delicious, Kesar Rickshaws eat a lot like Mac n’ Cheese with more depth while Nihari Lamb and Shells finds balance in Sumac Yogurt.

Following an embrace of Soft Serve seen from Leopardo to Dana Point’s Truly Pizza, but hear leaning in on the concept with a Rose Water flavor adjacent “Cookies and Cream,” suffice it to say Cardamom makes a big difference in elevating the Ice Cream to something memorable rather than perfunctory.

www.pijjapalace.com

Posted in Bread Basket, California, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Los Angeles, Pijja Palace, Pizza, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Creamo, Los Angeles CA

Creamo by Donut Friend

Churro Shake – Corn Against Ice Cream, Cookie Butter, Cinnamon, Whip, Cherry

Old Fashioned – Vanilla Glaze, Nutmeg

Polar Berry Club – Raised Donut, Lemon Glaze, Berries

Youth Brulee – Raised Donut, Bavarian Cream, Bruleed Sugar

The Promise Ring – Raised Donut, Sugar Glaze

Fritter Seems Forever – Apple Pie Filling, Cinnamon

Angry Samoa – Vanilla Cake Donut, Dark Chocolate, Toasted Coconut, Caramel

Give Up The Toast – Raised Donut, Maple Glaze, Cinnamon Crumb

The Promise Ring – Raised Donut, Maple Glaze

Yellow Carrot – Carrot Cake Donut, Carrot Juice, Kite Hill Cream Cheese Frosting, Candied Walnuts

Considered by most to be the best Doughnut scene in the United States, seemingly an independent mom ‘n pop shop turning out glazed rings on every corner from Pasadena to Venice, Donut Friend plies its trade with old fashioned know-how and seasonal flavors that are entirely plant based.

Created by producer Mark Trombino, the original Highland Park location visited in 2014 and DTLA more recently, Creamo by Donut Friend sees the all-Vegan shop continuing to expand on its mission with creative choices including Ice Creams and Shakes.

At the beginning allowing guests to customize their own fried Dough, now instead doing so via Ice Cream and Toppings near the register, staff proves educated and pleasant while describing everything from an extra crispy Fritter packed with Fruit to “Yellow Carrot” with spiced Cake beneath Cream Cheese Frosting and Candied Walnuts.

Taken best as a ‘Dessert Shop’ rather than a simple Doughnut vendor Donut Friend, much like Sidecar and Blue Star, continues to shine by way of an Old Fashioned perfumed with Nutmeg while fans of fancy stuff will find lots to love in both creamy-crunchy Youth Brulee and “Angry Somoa” that eats like its namesake Cookie but better.

www.donutfriend.com

Posted in Breakfast, California, Creamo, Creamo by Donut Friend, Dessert, Donut Friend, Food, Ice Cream, Los Angeles, Silverlake, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dayglow (3206 Sunset Boulevard,) Los Angeles CA

Dayglow

Vegan Black Forest Hand Pie

Kouign Amann

Coldbrew Decadent roasted by Dayglow

With three, soon to be four, Southern California locations plus spots in Chicago, Boston and New York Dayglow is not only a Roaster but also the importer of many international contemporaries, the Nordic influence evident in everything from Beans to interior design.

Offering no less than twelve styles of Beans, most available as Pour-over but some as Espresso or Coldbrew plus Cocktails, guests are invited to sit inside or outdoors while enjoying their beverages with or without Pastries from the likes of Bakery By Jiyoon.

Owned by Tohm Ifergan and priced appropriate to Silver Lake those who enjoy Colombian Beans will find Dayglow’s “Decadent” smooth with lingering Chocolate notes well-suited to a Vegan Black Forest Hand Pie while the Kouign Amann tries to remedy its flaccid crumb with an exaggerated caramelized Sugar base.

www.dayglow.coffee

Posted in Breakfast, California, Coffee, Dayglow, Dayglow 3206 Sunset Boulevard, Dayglow Coffee, Dayglow Coffee 3206 Sunset Boulevard, Dessert, Food, Los Angeles, Silverlake, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Leopardo, Los Angeles CA

Leopardo

the brown bear neo-white russian

momotaru bloody mary

our ossetra caviar cured with country bacon salt & aged for 6 months, red flint polenta waffle, barbecue corn cob maple syrup, bordier butter

ice-cold oysters with pickled seaweed granita

warm olives in grilled olive leaf oil

giardiniera

hass avocado, tomato acquapazza, embered oil

deer tartare & marrow with sourdough cracker

cali-prese with 18 hour tomatoes, honey vinegar & basil

ocean tilefish crudo, olio santo, pickled chili, caperberry & lemon

classic caesar salad

re-marinara, country ham tomato sauce, wild oregano, olive oil, garlic (side of stracciatella)

margherita, buffalo mozzarella, early girl tomato sauce, olive oil, basil

white pie, preserved artichoke, buffalo mozzarella, olive oil, garlic & lemon

hello satan, spicy tomato sauce, chilis & salumis, wildflower honey, garlic & herbs (side of giardiniera)

grilled whitefish in the lords water

wild boar meatballs

tiramisu 2022

wild blackberry hand-pie with cream

Long departed from Saison, at one time America’s best Restaurant, Josh Skenes reemerged in Los Angeles May of 2024 with Leopardo, the former La Brea Bakery in Mid-Wilshire converted into what the Chef calls “a raw bar with Pizza.”

Always fanatical about Ingredients, this newest venture following his Michelin 3* years in San Francisco plus Angler in its focus on the best natural products available, Leopardo finds Skenes focused on rare terrain that is elegant yet casual with service far outpacing the price point for LA.

Self-described as “unfamiliar takes on the familiar,” a Pavesi Pizza oven capturing attention on entry, it is amidst brick and assorted artifacts that guests are seated to peruse the daily menu while the likes of Phil Collins and Prince play medium-loud overhead.

Only accepting reservations a week in advance so far, though walk-ins are welcomed, most will elect to begin with Cocktails including the two-part Bloody Mary, silky frozen Rose or the sweet yet savory “Neo White Russian” that rethinks the classic in a good way.

Best visited with a group, in this instance enough to share two of everything, starters include everything from Deer Tartare with crisps and spoonable Marrow to a classic Cesar or the “Cali-prese” featuring individually skinned Tomatoes that capture the essence of California Summer.

Also offering Olives, Oysters, Crudo and spicy Pickled Vegetables, plus a faultless Avocado in vibrant gel tinged by smoke, there’s no denying the spotlight nature of Leopardo’s crunchy yet yielding Polenta Waffle awaiting the addition of aged Osetra caviar, Barbecue Corn-cob Maple Syrup and Bordier Butter.

Turning attention to Pizza, four available on the evening after a power outage, Leopardo’s crust is the result of nine Flours plus Wild Yeast and a 48-hour ferment that bubbles big around the cornicione to yield an open web that is crisp yet chewy and ever so slightly sweet.

Predictably taking no shortcuts in terms of toppings, the Sauce canned by Skenes using Early Girls and Mozzarella housemade with Straus Creamery Milk, guests will find a classic Margherita alongside “Re-Marinara” enlivened by Smoked Ham and a sidecar of cool Stracciatella plus an all-new White Pie and “Hello Satan” loaded with Chilis, Salumi, Garlic and a kiss of Honey.

Offered without a Beef entree on Saturday, though Wild Boar Meatballs featuring a smooth grind and lots of complexity are available for carnivores, Tilefish comes grilled tender atop smoky Fish Sauce before concluding in desserts including Soft Serve, feather-light Tiramisu and a golden Blackberry Hand-pie.

www.leopardola.com

Posted in California, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Leopardo, Los Angeles, Pizza, Pork, Tiramisu, Vacation, Waffle, Waffles Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Truly Pizza, Dana Point CA

Truly Pizza

Everything But The Bagel Tomato Carpaccio – Heirloom Tomato, Feta Cheese, Shallot Vinaigrette, “Everything” Seasoning

Classic French Fries – French Fries tossed in Sea Salt, Ketchup, Housemade Herby Ranch

Garlic Pull Apart Bread – Garlic, Butter, Romano Cheese

Sweet & Spicy – California Red Sauce, Fresh Mozzarella, Aged Mozzarella, Soppressata, Stracciatella, Mike’s Hot Honey, Basil

Champion Cheese – California Red Sauce, Semi-dried Dorati Tomatoes, Mozzarella, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sea Salt, Basil

Smoky Vodka – Housemade Vodka Sauce, Fresh Mozzarella, Aged Mozzarella, Semi-dried Marinated Tomatoes, Stracciatella, Pistachio Lemon Pesto, Basil

Dante – Vodka Sauce, Chicken Sausage, Roasted Cippollini Onion, Pickled Peppers

Umami Mushroom – Creamy Onion and Garlic Sauce, Smoked Mozzarella, Marinated Roasted Mushrooms, Toasted Sesame Oil, Sesame Seeds, Green Onion, Bonito Flakes

Industrial – Our Pizza Sauce, Garlic Confit, Sicilian Oregano, Stracciatella, Sea Salt, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sesame Seeds

Straus Creamery Organic Vanilla Soft Serve – Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sea Salt

Spumoni Sundae – Sour Cherry, Pistachio Crème, Chocolate Soft Serve, Amarena Cherry, Pistachio, Pizzelle

Orange Creamsicle – Boylan Bottling Co.Orange Soda, Straus Creamery Organic Vanilla Soft Serve

Opened in 2023 as a collaboration between Metro Pizza’s John Arena and Chris Decker along with Steve Muller and Donna Baldwin Truly Pizza is the realization of a dream, its location in the center of Dana Point almost immediately finding success thanks to a combination of passion and craftsmanship focused around California’s bounty.

Built in an idyllic setting, the ocean breeze cooling a two-story outdoor space designed by Ted Berner & Dayna Lee, it is shaded by Lemon trees that guests are invited to peruse a menu of Pizzas, Salads and Appetizers including specials such as vibrant Tomato Carpaccio decorated by Feta, Shallot Vinaigrette and house-blended “Everything” Seasoning.

Relaxed in terms of setting despite serious ambitions to build a community gathering place, a goal thus far met by great Food and pleasant service, those familiar with Chris or his @everythingbutanchovies Instagram will not be surprised to know that everything is as beautiful as it is delicious from crispy golden Fries to the “Champion Cheese” and its airy cornicione.

“Informed but not bound by tradition” per Arena, a reluctant icon of the industry for 40+ years, Pizzas come round or squared with the latter not-unlike a Sicilian, first bites of “Smoky Vodka” light with a good crunch and tons of complexity while “Sweet & Spicy” ups the ante further via creamy Stracciatella plus Mike’s Hot Honey.

Perfectly suited for Southern California Summer, local Farms making an appearance in Produce as well as Dairy, Decker’s “Umami Mushroom” nods to Las Vegas China Town with spectacular results, and for those lucky enough to receive a nod from the kitchen “Industrial” takes its Sesame Seed Crust in an entirely different direction by charring it beneath simple yet superior Tomato Sauce and molten Cheese.

Turning to Marin County’s Straus Creamery for Dessert, Soft Serve in five styles available until Truly opens a space to make its own Gelato, suffice it to say that excellent Ingredients are again allowed to shine whether simple with Olive Oil and Sea Salt, decorated as organic Spumoni or as the centerpiece of a Float.

www.trulypizza.com

Posted in Bread Basket, California, Dana Point, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Los Angeles, Orange County, Pork, Truly Pizza, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

JD Flannel Donuts and Coffee, San Juan Capistrano CA

JD Flannel Donuts & Coffee

Pure Maple – Raised Donut, Maple Glaze made from Pure dark grade-A Maple Syrup

Chocolate Chipper – Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake Donut, Salted Brown Butter Glaze, Cookie Dough Butter Cream, Chocolate Chip Cookie Crumble

Apple Bear Claw – Raised Donut, Cinnamon Apple Jam, Sweet Cream, Cinnamon Glaze, Cinnamon Crumble

Blueberry Lemon – Vanilla Cake Donut infused with Blueberries, Meyer Lemon Zest Glaze

Buttermilk Old Fashioned – Buttermilk and Sour Cream Nutmeg Cake Donut, Glaze

In So. Cal one is never far from a Donut shop, and although JD Flannel Donuts & Coffee in San Juan Capistrano only opened in 2019 their focus on quality Ingredients plus old-school technique has rocketed them to stardom including a recent ranking as California’s best Donut per Yelp!

A small batch shop in the middle of a Strip Mall, flanked by launderers and vitamins, guests line up before the 7am opening Wednesday through Sunday for seasonal flavors such as plump Blueberries in moist Cake enrobed by tangy Lemon Glaze.

The brainchild of John Miller and Dave Rhode, J and D respectively, it is inside the shop that guests will notice a bakeshop buzzing with activity while servers rush to keep up, though after one bite of a faultless Bear Claw filled with Apples, Cinnamon and Cream any inconvenience is quickly forgotten.

Similarly priced as Sidecar or Blue Star, roughly $5 a piece, fans of Old-Fashioneds will find JD Flannel’s crisp overlying the melt-in-your-mouth center while Pure Maple and Chocolate Chipper range from simply delicious to overly-complicated yet unforgettable.

www.jdflannel.com

Posted in Breakfast, California, Dessert, Food, JD Flannel Donuts & Coffee, JD Flannel Donuts and Coffee, Los Angeles, Orange County, San Juan Capistrano, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pinkbox Doughnuts (West Tropicana Avenue) [27,] Las Vegas NV

Pinkbox Doughnuts

Da Apple Fritter – Glazed Raised Doughnut, Apples, Cinnamon

Don’t Be Salty – Yeast Doughnut, Caramel Cheesecake, Caramel Icing, Vanilla Icing, White Whip, Sea Salt

The Blow Torch – Yeast Doughnut, Vanilla Custard, Caramelized Sugar

Crumb Bum – Vanilla Cake Doughnut, Cinnamon Streusel, Powdered Sugar

Mr. Blueberry – Raised Doughnut, White Frosting, Blueberry Cheesecake, Blonde Oreo Crumble, White Chocolate Chips, Blueberry Glaze

Fudging Love You – Yeast Doughnut, Chocolate Frosting, Chocolate Frosting bottom, Chocolate Whip, Chocolate Cheesecake, Chocolate Chips

Holy Peanut Butter – Raised Doughnut, Chocolate Frosting bottom, Peanut Butter Cheesecake, Marshmallow, Peanuts, Chocolate, Peanut Butter

Butter Face DoughCro – Croissant Doughnut, Chocolate Frosting, Peanut Butter, Marshmallow

Mama’s Tres Leches – Glazed Tres Leches Cake Doughnut, Tres Leches Whip, Cinnamon

Banana Puddin’ – Cake Doughnut, Glaze, Whip, Banana Pudding, Nilla Wafer, Graham Cracker Crumble

Sup Shorty – White Cream, Glazed Strawberries, Glazed Yeast Doughnut

Vegas Cream – Yeast Doughnut, Chocolate Frosting, Bavarian Custard, V Drizzle

Holy Cannoli – Yeast Doughnut, Chocolate Frosting, Cannoli Filling, Chocolate Chips, Powdered Sugar

Smashin’ Apple – Yeast Doughnut, Apple Pie Filling, Streusel, Whip, Caramel Drizzle

Golden Knight – Yeast Doughnut, Chocolate Frosting, White Chocolate Chips, Peanut Butter

John Lemon – Yeast Doughnut, Lemon Filling, Torched Lemon Meringue

Blackjack – Yeast Doughnut, Cookies ‘n Cream Buttercream, Oreo Cookie Crumble, White Frosting

Love My PB&J – Yeast Doughnut, Housemade Raspberry Jelly, Creamy Peanut Butter, Crumble

Gimme S’more – Raised Doughnut, Chocolate Frosting, Marshmallow Creme, Toasted Marshmallow, Graham Cracker Crumble

Located at 9435 West Tropicana Avenue inside Crossroads Plaza Shopping Center and open 24-hours Pinkbox Doughnuts remains Las Vegas’ premier spot for Artisan Doughnuts, just as it has since debuting over a decade ago.

More and more social-media savvy over the years this visit entailed far beyond the usual “OG Classics,” and although PinkBox’s Old Fashioned Cogwheels are still Las Vegas’ best additional traditional choices are mostly as expected making “Fancy Pancy” or “Show Off” choices a necessity.

Often beginning with a Fritter, this day no different and the resulting bite packed with Cinnamon plus Fruit, it was after others made selections that Crumb Bum continued the gluttony, its Cake Crumble and buttery base a 1-2 punch of textures.

Fully committed to clever nomenclature, Roberto Armanino’s famous Caramel Cheesecake now “The Caramelo,” “Love My PB&J” succeeds thanks to Housemade Raspberry Jam and plenty of creamy Peanut Butter while “John Lemon” uses Graham Cracker Streusel for texture atop a Bismarck stuffed with Housemade Lemon Filling.

Replenishing supply as necessary, high volume assuring everything is fresh, “Vegas Cream” and “Mr. Blueberry” each achieve high marks while “Holy Peanut Butter” upgrades the traditional Bismark by way of airy Peanut Cream Cheese beneath a quartet of toppings.

www.pinkboxdoughnuts.com

Pinkbox Doughnuts Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Posted in Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pink Box, Pink Box Doughnuts, Pink Box Doughnuts Spring Valley, Pinkbox, Pinkbox Doughnuts, Pinkbox Doughnuts Tropicana Avenue, Pinkbox Doughnuts West Tropicana Avenue Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Glaze Doughnuts [20,] Las Vegas NV

Glaze Doughnuts

Apple Fritter

The Islander Doughnut

Strawberry Glaze Doughnut

Old Fashion Doughnut

Matcha Green Tea Pistachio Doughnut

Red Velvet Cake Doughnut

Horchata and Churro Doughnut

Sugar Twist Doughnut

Cinnamon Roll

Chocolate with Nuts Doughnut

Vanilla Glaze with Coconut Doughnut

Maple Bacon Doughnut

Family owned and operated from the start, Dominic Sang bringing family recipes from a Texas Doughnuttery to Sin City in October 2015, guests entering Glaze Doughnuts will notice little has since changed about the shop in 8 years while a soft base and creative toppings earn “Best of Las Vegas” accolades annually.

Located on Fort Apache Road, fair prices and friendly service undoubtedly part of Glaze’s appeal, what the shop lacks in selection is more than made up for in quality compared to the likes of Dunkin, Krispy Kream or other spots nearby.

Largely built on Yeast Rings, though undersized Fritters perform admirably, fans of simplicity will find Maple Frosting far more subtle than most while Chocolate and Vanilla Glaze are also of excellent quality with or without additions such as Cereal or Candy.

Not over-the-top, but balanced and complex, Ube and Coconut dazzle atop a fluffy leavened base while Peanut Butter and Jelly do the same, though if one is seeking Glaze’s top choice the decision comes down to Blueberry Cinnamon Toast, Churros and Horchata or Matcha Green Tea Pistachio that delivers sweetness beneath toasty notes.

www.glazedoughnutslv.com

Glaze Doughnuts Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Posted in Breakfast, Dessert, Food, Glaze Doughnuts, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Office Bar, Las Vegas NV

Office Bar

Seasoned Fries – Naked City Fries seasoned with Salt, Pepper and Parsley

Buffalo Chicken Fries – Naked City Fries, Blue Cheese Dressing, Crispy Chicken, Frank’s Red Hot, Mozzarella

Bread and all the Spreads – Sea Salt Focaccia, Butter with Garlic Oil, Chile Oil, Ricotta with Basil, Truffle Oil with Balsamic

Roasted Garlic Buns – Naked City Pizza Sauce

Pizza Egg Rolls – Pepperoni and Mozzarella hand rolled into Egg Roll Wraps. Served with Naked City Pizza Sauce

BBQ Wings, Fries

Guinea Pie – White Garlic Sauce, Spinach, Grandma’s Meatballs, Mozzarella, Ricotta

Buffalo 22 – White Garlic Sauce, Mozzarella, Pepperoni, Sausage, Roasted Garlic Crust, Crispy Garlic, Hot Honey

Forever a favorite for on-site catering, though the Blue Diamond Road “Express” location will soon shutter, it was during Game Seven of The Stanley Cup Finals that four guests sat down at Office Bar to enjoy some of Chris Palmeri’s classic creations from Naked City Pizza.

A smoky Bills Backer Bar with gaming, service predictably catering primarily to guests seated at the counter sipping beer, it was at a center island that menu items were delivered hot and fresh as prepared in the kitchen.

Still slinging Sin City’s best Chicken Wings, ten flats devoured in minutes, Fries remain a necessity whether seasoned or slathered in Red Hot plus Blue Cheese while Pizza Egg Rolls are weighty but delicious as ever.

Recently adding Focaccia to a list that also includes world-class Knots, a quartet of Spreads available highlighted by creamy Ricotta in Basil Oil, no trip to Naked City is complete without Pizza including the sweet n’ savory “Buffalo 22” or Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives famous Guinea Pie featuring White Garlic Sauce and Grandma Palmeri’s Meatballs.

www.nakedcitylv.com
www.instagram.com/officebarlv

Naked City Pizza Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Posted in Bread Basket, Food, Las Vegas, Naked City, Naked City Pizza, Naked City Pizza on Paradise, Nevada, Office Bar, Pizza, Pork, The Office Bar Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Summer House Cookie Bar [8,] Las Vegas NV

Summer House

Oreo Crispy Crispy Treat

Brown Butter Crispy Rice Treat

Chocolate Chunk Cookie

Birthday Cake Cookie

Blondie

Apple Oatmeal Cookie

Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookie

Brownie

Confetti Cookie

Peanut Butter Cookie

Chocolate Cloud Cookie

Oatmeal Scotchie Cookie

Chocolate Walnut 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 a “Cinnamon Roll” Cookie, think fully-glazed Gingersnap with more Butter and less Spice, Summer House’s Apple Oatmeal Cookie reminisces of Autumn Apple Crisp in portable form while the Brownie and Blondie both benefit from excellent Ingredients cooked soft with lots of Butter.

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

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

Wicked Donuts [12,] Las Vegas NV

Wicked Donuts

Cookies & Cream Raised – Vanilla Milk Icing, Oreo Crumble

Lemon Meringue Pie Raised Donut – Lemon Glaze, Pie Crust Crumble, Lemon Curd, Toasted Meringue

Guava Cheesecake Donut – Pie Crust Crumble, Caramel Drizzle

Cannoli Cream Puffernut – Pistachios, Chocolate Chips, Cannoli Filling

Wicked Boston Creme – Chocolate Icing, Bavarian Creme

Caramel Sutra Puffernut – Salted Caramel Glaze, Caramel Crème Center, Caramel Popcorn

PB&J Raised Donut – Peanut Butter Icing, Strawberry Jam

Tiramisu Donut – Coffee, Cocoa, Masarpone Cream, Rum Espresso

Apple Crumble Donut – Apple Glaze, Apple Chunks, Graham Cracker Crumble

Ube Cheesecake Donut – Ube Glaze, Ube Cheesecake Filling

Now serving Sin City for over four years it was via online ordering that Wicked Donuts were picked up on Thursday, execution more dialed-in than prior with a bevvy of new choices.

Offering roughly two-dozen flavors daily, in addition to freshly-fried minis available in a keto-friendly fashion, any discussion of Wicked Donuts should begin with the base, buttery Brioche or toothsome Cake enjoyable beneath tangy Buttermilk or Vanilla Glaze, though upgrading to Chocolate or Maple is highly advised.

First indulging in old favorites, Caramel Sutra continuing to occupy rarefied air as one of Las Vegas’ best Donuts while the Lemon Meringue Pie outperforms many local plated Deserts.

Eschewing Artificial Colors or Preservatives, a fact pertinent to Cream-filled choices including a delightful Cannoli Cream Puffernut, suffice it to say that most will not last long whether it be decadent Tiramisu or the more nuanced Guava Cheesecake.

Executing Ansel’s invention well, available filled or coated in Cinnamon-Sugar, PB&J continues to impress in its subtlety while Ube Cheesecake rides a trend but does so while retaining lightness rarely seen elsewhere.

www.wicked-donuts.com

Wicked Donuts Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Posted in Breakfast, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Tiramisu, Wicked Donuts Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

ShangHai Taste (Southwest) [3,] Las Vegas NV

Shanghai Taste

Sheng Jian

Kao Fu

Shanghai Shrimp & Pork Wonton Soup

Shrimp & Cucumber Xiao Long Bao

Angus Beef Xiao Long Bao

Traditional Shanghai Xiao Long Bao

Crab Yolk Xiao Long Bao

Shanghai Crispy Shrimp

Steamed Mahi Mahi Dumplings

House Fried Fat Noodles with Beef

Beef and King Oyster Mushrooms in Black Pepper Sauce

Signature Fried Chicken

Steamed Chinese Broccoli

Chocolate Xiao Long Bao

Now expanding to Dallas and the Southwest Vegas Valley 4 years after opening, despite growing competition, it was as a party of five that diners enjoyed an outstanding meal at ShangHai Taste on Tuesday evening.

Tucked inside Suite 130 of a complex on Rainbow Boulevard it is upon entry that eyes are immediately drawn to Chinese-born Chefs working inside the restaurant’s glass prep-room, and with Chef Jimmy Li’s time at 3 Villages, 1900 Asian Cuisine and Niu Gu well-known to fans the fact that everything on-site is made from scratch should come as no surprise.

Seating approximately 60 guests from 11:00am until 9:00pm seven-days-a-week it was with warm greetings that twelve items were received, many old favorites but also all-new head-on Shrimp and Shrimp Wonton Soup plus Fried Chicken.

Affordable without skimping on Ingredients, all thanks to Chef Li and Joe Muscaglione’s dedication, a distinctive feel is ensured by the fact that almost every single item on-site is imported from or near Shanghai, and starting with Soup Dumplings, or XLB, fans will be happy to know ShangHai Taste’s set a high standard whether made with Pork, Shrimp, Crab or Beef.

Able to accommodate most dietary preferences, fried Soup Dumplings in two varieties a winner to all but vegans, those eschewing all Animal products will likely gravitate to green Dumplings, though even more interesting bites are found in the form of Cold Bean Curd Noodles slicked in Scallion Oil or springy Kao Fu.

Built on family recipes handed down to Chef Li, his Fat Noodles with choice of Protein always a crowd-pleaser, Dumplings taste wonderful with or without spicy Oil or Soy while Black Pepper Beef rivals the best in town.

www.facebook.com/ShanghaiTasteLV

Posted in Crab, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork, ShangHai Taste, Shanghai Taste Southwest Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Rosallie Catering [23,] Las Vegas NV

Rosallie

Lemon Raspberry Tart

Walnut Pie

Apple Croustade

Almond Raspberry Croissant

Peach Danish

Apricot Danish

Almond Croissant

Custard Danish

Unquestionably Las Vegas’ top choice for French Pastry over the past 8+ years Rosallie Le French Café continues to show well on-site or to-go, a Monday morning delivery finding Pastries carefully arranged with several still warm and both the Croissants as well as the Danishes still the best in town.

www.rosallie.com

Posted in Breakfast, Coffee, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Rosallie, Rosallie 'Le French Cafe', Rosallie Catering, Rosallie Le French Café Catering, Rosallie Le French Cafe Catering Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Magic Donuts & Coffee, San Francisco CA

Magic Donuts & Coffee

Glazed Donut

Blueberry Lime Donut

Raspberry Pistachio Donut

Maple Pecan Donut

Attached to a “luxury living” complex where $3200/mo will get you a 16’x13’ living space Magic Donuts & Coffee comes from Bacchus Management Group, and although Spruce may have lost its Michelin Star the $5-6 Sourdough Donuts here rank among the best citywide.

Part of Potrero Hill, a pastel shop featuring friendly service plus plenty of nearby parking, guests visiting Magic Donuts & Coffee will find Donut Hole samples on entry plus a dozen daily choices listed adjacent several styles of Coffee.

A different type of Donut, the Sourdough base featuring plenty of oomph and chew, suffice it to say simple Glaze lets the natural leavening show while flavors featuring Fruit better quell the Sourdough’s robustness.

Also featuring Lemon Meringue beneath a toasty dollop, or filled Bismarks like Boston Cream, fans of Syrup will find Maple Pecan delightful not only in terms of taste but as a result of textures varying from smooth Custard to Nuts that are candied and toasted.

www.magicdonuts.com

Posted in Breakfast, California, Dessert, Food, Magic Donuts & Coffee, San Francisco, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Loquat Bakery, San Francisco CA

Loquat Bakery

Lemon Poppyseed Cake with Strawberry Jam

Chocolate Tahini Cookie

Cinnamon Date Babka

Pistachio Butter Cookie

Poppyseed Walnut Babka

Halva Brownie

Owned by Tal Mor and Jodi Geren of The Mill and Four Barrel Loquat Bakery taps former Tartine pastry chef Kristina Costa to create a menu that draws inspiration from Mor’s roots in Israel and Eastern Europe.

Located inside the former 20th Century Cafe space in Hayes Valley, a small footprint with just a few tables adjacent the Pastry case and Espresso machine, guests arriving early will find servers pleasant and offerings bountiful whether one seeks sweet or savory.

Skipping Bourekas and opting for the former, prices comparable to other Bay Area artisans, first bites of Lemon Poppyseed Cake prove remarkably moist thanks to Frosting and Jam while Cookies harness Tahini and Pistachio Butter to rein in sweetness.

Not about to miss the celebrated Babka, available in four daily flavors, Loquat’s are served in laminated swirls surrounding Butter and Ingredients such as Cinnamon Date or Poppyseed Walnut while a dense Brownie flecked in Sea Salt sees Halva add nuance.

www.loquatsf.com

Posted in Breakfast, California, Dessert, Food, Loquat, Loquat Bakery, San Francisco, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Pizzeria da Laura, Berkeley CA

Pizzeria da Laura

the g.o.a.t. fried calzone – mozzarella, prosciutto cotto, ricotta, sauce

New York Pepperoni Slice

Detroit style ray j- tomato sauce, mozzarella, thin pepperoni, thick pepperoni, basil, burrata, fermented honey, parmigiano reggiano

Opened late-winter 2023 in an art deco building on Shattuck Square Pizzeria da Laura sees longtime Tony Gemignani collaborator Laura Meyer strike out on her own, and as anyone familiar with the Chef’s Pizza can tell you the results set a high bar for competition across the Bay Area.

A warm space in quirky Berkeley, with Slices available from a separate window until 4:00pm, it was after warming up with a folded triangle balancing char and pliability that guests sat down inside the Restaurant with a view of the NHL Finals on TV behind the bar.

Offering cocktails and a fair-priced Wine list, plus Appetizers and Pasta, the star of the show is expectedly Pizzas in one of four styles plus a “G.O.A.T.” Calzone plump with Cheese and Sauce plus Prosciutto that remains impossibly light despite the fact that its fried.

A veteran of Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, not to mention awards in competition abroad as well as at Pizza Expo in Las Vegas, Pizzeria da Laura focuses mainly on pan-style with the Sicilian admittedly tempting but a Detroit Pie dialed up by Fermented Honey too faultless to resist.

www.pizzeriadalaura.com

Posted in Berkeley, California, Food, Pizza, Pizzeria da Laura, Pork, San Francisco, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Humphry Slocombe, Berkeley CA

Humphry Slocombe

Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream

Boozy Affogato – 2 shots Espresso, Secret Breakfast Ice Cream, Bourbon Caramel

Having first tasted Humphry Slocombe in 2009 while visiting San Francisco it was exciting to learn the brand has since expanded to the East Bay.

Owned by Jake Godby and Sean Vahey, the plain-Jane appearance of their Mission flagship transported to Berkeley with equal nonchalance, it was in perusing twelve flavors with tastes of five that decisions became easy – a single scoop of Cinnamon Roll nearly as good as Jeni’s while Secret Breakfast in Espresso with Bourbon Caramel still sees caramelized Cereal shine through with a yeasty linger.

www.humphryslocombe.com

Posted in Berkeley, Breakfast, California, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Humphry Slocombe, Humphry Slocombe Berkeley, Ice Cream, San Francisco, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dago Bagel, San Francisco CA

Dago Bagel, Antonio’s Italian Pastries, Toscano Brothers

Gold Standard Baguette / Stone Ground Italian Country Ace Pagnotta Bread with Rosemary and Cured Black Italian Olives

Pumpernickel Bagel

Sour Cherry, Maldon Salt, TCHO Chocolate Bâtard

Piattina with Garlic Oil, Black & White Sesame Seeds, Malt, Orange Blossom Honey, Maldon Salt

Everything Bagel, Cream Cheese

Lemon Ricotta Cake

Butterscotch Budino, TCHO Chocolate, Butter Crumble, Whipped Cream

Rainbow Cookies

Debuted at the end of the pandemic in response to an ethnic slur Dago Bagel from Tony Gemignani is one of three concepts inhabiting 728 Vallejo Street, and from Thursday through Sunday beginning at 08:00am guests are welcome to enjoy everything from true New York Style Bagels to housemade loaves and traditional Italian Pastries made with skill and love.

A change of pace for the lauded Pizza maker, a man whose name is nearly-synonymous with North Beach, it is inside the shop that acts as both Bakery and storefront that guests will meet well trained staff and pleasant servers more than willing to discuss products and production at length.

Beginning with Bagels, developed in conjunction with Adam Sachs, Dago’s collection spans from Pride to Everything and from stretchy skin to a dense interior with good chew the “best” is a matter of personal opinion whether toasted with Cream Cheese or plain.

Liberally using Malt and a Cuppone Panettone deck oven imported from Italy, plus stone-ground Flour made on-site, visitors attention is next drawn to Toscano Brothers including “Gold Standard” Baguettes and Organic Sourdough Ace Pagnotta incorporating Spelt, Rosemary and Olives into a 40 year old Sourdough starter.

Trending sweet from here, a Sour Cherry and Chocolate Batard souring local produce and TCHO Chocolate, Tony’s “Piattina” cuts a wide swath of textures and flavors before Antonio’s Italians Pastries rounds things out with classic Rainbow Cookies and world-class Lemon Ricotta Cake plus silky Budino hidden alongside Prosciutto and Mortadella in the cold case.

www.dagobagel.com
www.toscanobrothers.com

Posted in Antonio’s Italian Pastries, Breakfast, California, Dago Bagel, Dessert, Food, San Francisco, Toscano Brothers, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Abacá, San Francisco CA

Abacá

Bibingka Rice Cake, Caramelized Brie, Salted Egg / Ensaymada, Blueberry Cheesecake Filling

Buttered Pandesal, Lobster and Crab Aligue Curry Dip

Dungeness Crab and Spring Vegetable Crepe, Lumpiang Sariwa, Asparagus, Pistachio, Poached Egg

Labeled as “contemporary Filipino cuisine” Abacá pairs the talents of Chef Francis Ang and JBFA nominate Pastry Chef Vince Bugtong to create a menu better viewed as California Cuisine through a Filipino lense.

Located off the lobby of Kimpton Alton Hotel near Fisherman’s Wharf, Mrs. Dian Ang in charge of operations for the organic space with indoor and outdoor seating, guests are ushered to seats by stoic hostesses prior to greetings by servers eager to please.

Hosting Panaderia Abacá inside the Restaurant, a counter open for weekday Breakfast and weekend Brunch, guests are invited to peruse Chef Bugtong’s creations prior to making decisions and although prices trend high both the savory-sweet Bibingka and filled-to-order Ensaymada are exemplary.

Dissimilar from daytime to Dinner, the later focused on skewers and share plates, Brunch features light interpretations of classic dishes loaded with nuance – Pandesal excellent on its own but better smeared with Crustacean Curry and a fresh Lumpiang shining thanks to Summer’s bounty, a runny Egg, lots of Crab and textural components.

www.restaurantabaca.com

Posted in Abacá, Bread Basket, Breakfast, California, Crab, Dessert, Food, Lobster, pancake, Pancakes, San Francisco, Vacation Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Randy’s Donuts (South Rainbow Boulevard) [3,] Las Vegas NV

Randy’s Donuts

Apple Fritter

Bear Claw

Cinnamon Roll

Glazed Crondy

Maple Raised with Churros

Chocolate Glazed Texas Donut with Sprinkles

Vanilla Glazed Pride Donut

Red Velvet Cake

Butter Crumb Raised

Chocolate Crondy

Maple Long John with Cream

Chocolate Long John with Cream

Oreo Raised

Matcha Tea Raised

Coffee Raised

Raspberry Jelly Filled

Strawberry Jelly Filled

Glazed Texas Donut

Fruity Pebbles Raised

Nutella Raised

S’Mores Raised

M&M’s Raised

Located just off the 405 in Inglewood is Randy’s Donuts, this year celebrating its 70th year slinging fried Dough under an iconic 32-foot sign 24/7, and now growing the name globally with 20+ locations stretching to South Korea and Dubai – or in this case Sin City.

Unimpressive in 2015 at the Original, though new outposts trend cleaner without the cash-only policy, Randy’s on South Rainbow Boulevard opened in August 2022, recipes reportedly unchanged since day one though premium toppings and savory items have been added.

Busy at noon on a Tuesday, though a full selection was available, it was in exchange for $50 that two dozen Donuts were received, the Apple Fritter far better than those at Randy’s flagship thanks to crackling Glaze over a soft center while the laminated “Crondy” failed to rival Pink Box or Coco.

Recalling Cake Donuts greasy, Randy’s Red Velvet actually performing well, Maple Frosting is featured abundantly with taste artificial but pleasant in comparison to Chocolate that is undoubtedly cheap and applied too thick.

Doing justice to Jelly Donuts, Strawberry trumping Raspberry or Lemon, Randy’s Bear Claw is something of a hidden gem thanks to good rise and plenty of filling that trends less sweet than many thanks to an abundance of Cinnamon.

Well-priced in the current market, “cheaper-by-the-dozen” offers growing less common, Cereal-topped specials execute as expected while Maple Raised with Churros and a big spiraled Cinnamon Roll both prove worth the cost and calories.

www.randysdonuts.com

Posted in Coffee, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Randy's Donuts, Randy’s Donuts Las Vegas, Randy’s Donuts Rainbow Boulevard, Randy’s Donuts South Rainbow Boulevard Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,