alohameisha

Folio Weekly Bite Club: Crabcake Factory

2011-09-01T21:34:00.001-04:00

I was excited to receive my invite for this month's Bite Club for three reasons (1) I love seafood and (2) I heard wildly different comments from friends who had been to the Crabcake Factory and (3) I had yet to go myself.

I arrived and the bar was large and open with natural light, it's important to those stuck inside an office all day. I started my evening with an local brew, Intuition Ale Work's People's Pale ale and even commented to Jay Magee that beer is an excellent pairing with seafood especially crab.

The appetizers were passed as we mingled at the bar.

The Jumbo Lump Crabcake Napoleons with tropical fruit salsa were not just pretty the crab "dome" was moist and crabby not bready. Whatever they use to bind it is pretty genius because it doesn't overtake the crab. It was better than the homeade crab cakes I make for myself last weekend and I thought they were pretty good but no compared with this. The fruit salsa gave it a nice tang.

The Ahi tuna and jumbo lump crab meat timbale has all my favorite ingredients; seaweed salad, lump crab and ahi and I could make a meal of these alone. At this point I'm realizing the Crab Cake Factory is back to the glory I heard so much of. The seafood is really fresh, crab and ahi can taste can get fishy if not fresh enough or stored properly this was not the case at all of all the foods I sampled.

The buffet portion of the evening featured;

Cream of crab bisque
Louisiana seafood gumbo
Tossed mixed greens served with homemade champagne vinaigrette

The champagne vinaigrette was delicious and really tasted great with the strawberries on the salad. I enjoyed all the fresh veggies and was happy it wasn't calorie-laden with croutons and cheese. If this is the house salad I'd be happy to get it instead of the iceburg lettuce-shredded carrot-substandard dressing that a lot of places like to call a house salad.

Check out the crab claw in that gumbo! While it would be too messy for me to eat crab like this the claw adds a lot of flavor. For fear of filling up I took a small bit of the gumbo broth and was impressed the roux was great flavorful not watery not oversalted and had a nice spicy kick.

For dinner we didn't have to choose we had a selection of main dishes on one plate;

Sea scallop with lemon beurre blanc, jerk Mahi mahi and Crab stuffed shrimp with mashed potatoes and asparagus. The mahi seemed to be overcooked but the rub was tasty. The scallop and crab stuffed shrimp were delicious and the sauce was light, lemony and divine. The mashed potatoes and aspargus also had the sauce drizzled on top.

I didn't really have room for dessert but I ordered the bread pudding and the caramel sauce it was served with forced me to finish the whole thing!

Knowing that Chef and his son Christopher are back to return the Crab Cake Factory to the glory people spoke so highly of makes me feel this is just the sort of place that can do really well in Jacksonville. Good location for beach dwellers, specials nightly, fresh seafood, great homemade sauces and a friendly atmosphere should help them bring business back through the door. If I lived closer it would be a nice place to grab a drink and some apps and I hear the brunch is a must to try. The grand reopening is coming soon so check the website for details.

Folio Weekly Bite Club: Uptown Market

2011-05-31T20:48:00.001-04:00

I was so excited to see the Bite Club was going to be on a Friday and at Uptown Market I had to sign up right away. I had been to Uptown Market for breakfast and lunch and enjoyed it very much. I was curious to know what they'd be serving for bite club since it was dinner time. The menu turned out to be unlike anything they normally serve but it was delicious. It felt exta special because Uptown was closed to the public. Enabling Chef Eddie and Marco to interact with us about Uptown Market and the food being served and Chad Munsey founder of vingevity wines talked about the small production wines that were being served.

Menu

Hors d'oeuvres: small Canapes (smoked salmon, Shrimp ceviche, spanish tortilla)

The shrimp ceviche was served with gazpacho elements on a asian soup spoon. I absolutely love these flavors and had at least two spoonfuls! I would buy this ceviche gazpacho by the quart to go or for lunch.

I can never go wrong with smoked salmon especially paired with creamy cucumber it' classic fresh and light. I admit I did not try the spanish tortilla because I have been eating so many eggs lately.

The pinot grigio paired nicely with the two appetizers I tried. Very tasty with the acidity of the ceviche and the smokiness of the salmon.

Black Hog Organic Field Greens and Heirloom Tomatoes, Crispy Prosciutto and Champage vinaigrette, dinner rolls and butter.

A great start to dinner I really enjoyed the tomatoes and crispy prosciutto

This Cuvee de Blanc was sweeter than the first glass I had but not too sweet. I remember Chad comparing it to a Reisling or Gewürztraminer .

Entrees;
Duck cooked two ways. Mandarin roasted duck legs with asian vegetables and seared duck breast served med rare with citrus sauce.

Moroccan Lamb Tagine served with cous-cous. Braised lamb with apricots and roasted vegetables served with lemon scented cous -cous.

Black Hog Farms Organic Chicken cooked in Riesling. Pan seared chicken on the bone, braised with chicken stock, riesling, tarragon and cream served with pan roasted vegetables.

Chicken looked lovely and I had a taste but I really enjoyed the duck & lamb much better

Loved these root veggies

I was last in line and the fingerlings were gone I'm sure they were great but I'm glad because I had plenty on my plate

The lamb sauce was very rich and the cous cous soaked up the juice perfect with it

Before I even tasted it I guessed the lamb would be the star, maybe because it happens to be a favorite of mine

The lamb's glamour shot

I choose the duck, a small piece of chicken, lamb, root veggies and the cous cous it paired well with the syrah. The lamb and duck were outstanding!

I skipped dessert and went with a second glass of syrah!

If you go for breakfast get my favorite the huevos rancheros, if you go for lunch get the fried green tomato mozarella salad but if you get invited to a moroccan fantasy at Uptown Market run don't walk! I'm curious to see if they will start doing dinner it was a nice atmosphere on a Friday night.

James Beard Foundation Dinner: A Dream Team Assembled

2011-05-01T11:00:00.003-04:00

James Beard Foundation Dinner

April 9, 2011

My husband and I have stayed at One Ocean multiple times, it is our "close to home" escape. This year's occasion was our second wedding anniversary and I saw this James Beard Foundation Dinner was the very same weekend. At $125 a person some say it was a bit pricey however when I thought of the five chefs who would be cooking and the five courses that would be perfectly paired with wine I knew it was a steal! Not to mention we found out that Jacksonville hadn't hosted a James Beard dinner before so we were all to happy to be part of history.

The table setting was gorgeous and unique no table cloth just a silver finished table and bunch of white hydrangeas

First Course Seared Day Boat Scallop and Sweet Pea Puree paired with 2008 Sebastiani "Unoaked" Chardonnay, Sonoma County California

A perfectly seared scallop with this light pea puree so bright and fresh and spring. This dish was Chef Tom Gray from Bistro Aix

Before each dish the chefs spoke about the dish from the kitchen while the sound and image was shown in the dining room this really gave it a very intimate feel.

Second Course Pork Belly, Poached Egg, Pumpernickel, Bacon Shards Ynez Valley California

How do you make bacon fat powder? Have you had many poached eggs for dinner? I can't answer these questions but I can tell you it was delicious the pumpernickel with sherry vinegar cut the fatty pork belly and the egg was creamy. This screams Orsay to me not that this is on the menu but the three pork elements and great use of egg is something that I notice on the Orsay menu when I visit.

Third Course Cepe Mushroom Agnolotti in white truffle emulsion paired with 2008 Lincourt Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills California

I have to admit this was the one dish I had no idea what it was going to be. I didn't know Agnolotti was a type of pasta. I will say this dish was fantastic and even thought is was light in color the mushroom and truffle (you can never go wrong with truffle) were great with the Pinot. This dish was Matthew Medure.

Fourth Course Spring Lamb Loin paired with 2007 Kuleto Estate Syrah, Napa Valley California

I love lamb! This perfectly rare lamb was paired with baby corn and fava beans and a spring salad that kep things light since we were at the fourth course.

Fifth Course Fresh Strawberry Tart Basil IceCream paired with Chalk Hill Semillion, Sonoma County California

After all this food you realy need a light fresh dessert and this was exactly that. The tart strawberries and ice cream were delicious satisfied a sweet tooth and a great ending to the evening.

These delightful chocolates were passed to each table and looked beautiful however I couldn't possibly have another bite I felt terrible to waste them so I took pictures to preserve them. I would have loved a little favor box or bag that I could have packed these up for later. I have no idea where they are from so if you know please send me a message.

Wine Footnote: I apologize for not talking about the wine paired with each course more. The fact is they were all perfect and it is exactly the purpose of a chef's menu paired with wine it is what I can't do at home without some assistance from my friends at wine warehouse. The pairings were great and I appreciated that each course was mindful of the next not too heavy, not a bunch of the same flavors.

One Ocean is always great. This time the dinner was really something special to mark a special occasion and it became a special occasion itself. We lucked out by having fun foodies Maria Coppola & Jon Cummins as table mates. I couldn't have asked for anything more.

Pastiche 2.0: Pastiche is now the Patio at Pastiche

2011-04-27T12:05:00.064-04:00

Pastiche has always held a special place in my heart I've celebrated some fantastic occasions with their food present; a friend's wedding shower, another's bachelorette dinner, my first dating anniversary with my now husband and they also catered our wedding. There have also been countless lunches just because so when I heard that Pastiche was closed my heart sank. The bad news is they aren't open for dinner right now but the good news is plenty; they are open for lunch again, have gourmet take away, an airconditioned enclosed patio and still provide top notch catering. I have been back four times since they reopened about three weeks ago!

One of the new items I love is this fried rock shrimp salad. The fry batter is light the rock shrimp are sweet and the avocado is plentiful and everything is on soft bibb lettuce with a slighly spicy asian dressing. Truely one of the best salads I ever had!

This tart has fresh strawberries, blackberries, orange zest and a creamy vanilla filling. The surprise? a white chocolate coating in crust that keeps it from getting soggy. These are available at your table or in the gourmet to go case.

My work friend got this unique cobb salad with deviled eggs I can't speak for taste but she assured me it was fantastic and the presentation was impressive.

I used to love the hot ham and cheese with apple that was on the lunch menu but I remember it being a little salty. I spoke with my waiter who was knowlegable enough to tell me the ham had been switched out and it was no longer salty. Also this sandwich does not include the apple but the fig mustard that they are using more than makes up for it! It is so good I may ask about buying it the next time I am in.

Gourmet to Go

I need to get this soup and try it I love cold soup and I think the horseradish that they use will give it just the right zing.

As I write this I wish I was eating this! They offered this as an appetizer on the old menu and I have gotten it will friends many times to share over wine. A nice selection of cheese paired with honeycomb, dates and nuts.

These bleu cheese stuffed dates wrapped in bacon should be in my oven right now I think this combo would be delicious.

I hope you can make it to Pastiche soon and if not at least drop by and pick up some goodies to go.

First Trip to the Riverside Arts Market this Season

2011-03-12T17:32:00.000-05:00

RAM opened last weekend but I wanted to make sure to visit this weekend because Toyota's Farm to Table Tour kicked off at our very own Arts Market! There were herbs giveaways, Prius test drives and cooking demos. I was lucky to walk up to a chef table where I saw Brian the Chef from Orsay passing out the most delicious pork sliders with sauteed onions -- Delicious. I carried it around for an hour and a half so my husband could have a bite.

These were my other highlights today and are already added to my shopping list for next week;

Happy Trails Stepping Stones

We bought one of these stones last year for Matt's parents it is beautiful and will buy more from them. The website doesn't include all the designs that they have available. They also shipped it to New Hampshire for us so we didn't have to mess with it.

Brown Owl Designs

Has adorable onesies, blankets and headbands. I already regret not getting one of her headbands today but I guarantee it is on my shopping list for next week.

JD Beef

Farm fresh free range all natural angus beef, those eight words should leave most people salivating. I am beyond excited that this farm in Georgia takes orders and you can get your beef right at the art market. Their quarter side of beef runs between 120 -150 lbs and has approximately;

8 t-bones

4 ribeyes

2 sirloins

4 cube steaks

4 round steaks

7 roasts

1 boneless brisket

32- 2lb packs of ground beef

If you buy this much you get it for an insane $4.oo a lb! The good news is they have smaller packages available since the quarter listed above almost fills most stand alone freezers. How exciting farm to table not just for the professional chefs.

Tres Leches Desserts

The desserts at this table looked so unbelievable and fresh. I'm dying to go to their storefront in Springfield. I saw them cutting this Dark Chocolate Raspberry cake and it looked like flourless cake. There was also tres leches and a chocolate marquise that she decribed to me as cookies and cream. Not having tried anything I can't say but judging from the smells, sights and crowd around this booth everything tastes as good as it looks. Now to decide what to order from here!

The Ponte Vedra Soap Shoppe

This soap smells so wonderful when I turned into the aisle I could smell them four booths down. Fresh, clean and natural! They supply soapmakers and aromatherapists with supplies but for those of us that are lazy they also make & sell glorious handmade soaps

Just look at this List of Fresh Handmade Soap

• I Love My Oats
• Sexy Beast
• Lemongrass
• Pumpkin Pie
• Jasmine & Rose
• Blue Ice
• Cocoa Clay Facial
• Goatsmilk & Eucalyptus
• Goatsmilk & Lavender
• Indigo Lavender
• Honey Love
• Nori Seaweed
• Rose Soap
• Panache "The Fig"
• Olea Clay Facial Soap
• Rosa Clay Facial Soap
• Pomegranate
• Calamine
• Choc-O-Mint
• Dirty Hippie
• Flower Child
• Demonoid
• Snowflake
• Cocoa Clay Facial Soap
• Love My Hair - Solid Shampoo Bar
• Heads Zup - Solid Shampoo Bar
• Lemon Iceburg
• Lilac
• Grapefruit Toot
• I'm Too Sexy for My Dirt
• Secret Happiness
• The Man Soap
• Mango-Nana
• Rosemary Me
• Coconut Cream
• Amore'
• Lavender & Oatmeal

Last but definately not least this last company is coming to the Art Market every Saturday from Clearwater, Fl a four hour trek each way!

Brooklyn Knish
Armed with coolers and a small oven this booth was turning out hot amazing looking pastries. I had one look at the menu and asked about the appetizer sized knish. I will be calling Monday and having them make me 25 Ruben and 25 Artichoke, Spinach, Parmesan Cheese & Chive appetizer sized knish that I can pick up at next Saturday's Art Market. I'm having a party and while it doesn't exactly fit the theme I know they will be a hit. I'm especially excited about the Ruben since I was informed they age their own corned beef.

Menu
Aged Cheddar Cheese & Potato $4.00
Beef Brisket Knish $4.50
Breakfast Knish - Bacon $4.50
Breakfast Knish - Plain $4.50
Breakfast Knish - Sausage $4.50
Broccoli, Cheddar & Potato $4.00
Chicken Pot Pie & Potato $4.50
Classic Potato $3.50
Corned Beef & Potato $4.50
Hebrew National Hot Dog & Potato $4.50
Jalapeno, Cheddar Cheese & Potato $4.00
Kasha $3.50
Spanakopita $4.00
Spinach, Mushroom & Potato $4.00
Sweet Potato Knish $3.50
Sweet Potato, Pumpkin & Spice $3.50
Artichoke, Spinach, Parmesan Cheese & Chive $4.00

So I told myself I wouldn't go around impluse buying everything I saw but I found some wonderful unique products that I HAVE to go back for... is it Saturday yet?

Sandollar Restaurant & Marina

2011-02-05T21:00:00.001-05:00

Oh man this takes me to a happy time growing up on the West Coast of Florida in the retirement capital of the world. The place is decorated with pelicans and all sorts of beach gargae sale items. The food is great and generous and reasonability priced, especially lunch. Try the cashew crusted grouper in curry sauce is so good and so are the green beans. I also tried the grouper palafox on another occasion and I love the buffalo oysters and peel and eat shrimp appetizers. My mom and Matt both enjoyed too so I know it is not just me. The view is great as well.

I'm not crazy about chain or italian restaurants but Maggiano's won me over

2010-12-21T00:07:00.000-05:00

I got a giftcard for Christmas so Matt and I ventured out to the town center as a treat on a Monday. Even on a Monday @ 6:30 the wait for a table was one hour. The reason? This place is actually good quite good and super reasonable if you make the right choice. We were able to nab two seats at the bar and it was perfect because we had a bartender that made excellent wine, food and drink suggestions.

We went for the Classic Pasta selections because they offer a deal that can't be beat. It makes it almost more expensive to eat at home.

The Classic Pastas are $12.95 and you get one to eat and one is packaged to take home! That is less than $6.50 a serving.

See the selections here
http://www.maggianos.com/en/Pages/Menu.aspx#

The wine pictured below is the Ruffino Salute Amico, Red Blend Bottled exclusively for Maggiano's by the world-renowned Ruffino winery in Italy. It is delicious and is reasonably priced by the bottle.

I got the eggplant which was wonderful and I got the vodka sauce gnocchi to take for lunch the next day. I loved the eggplant, the gnocchi was ok but the eggplant was just so outstanding.

Matt got the Mom's Lasagna with meat sauce for both of his portions and he loved it. I tasted a bite and it was quite good.

Frozen Bellini Swirl

ABSOLUT RASPBERRI, Lunetta Prosecco, Peach Puree, Gabbiano Chianti
Signature Cocktails

This peach bellini was drizzled with chianti and blended perfectly together it came recommended from our fantastic bartender.

I'm no Italian food expert but I really enjoyed Maggiano's and especially loved that I could get a high end experience in a beautiful setting and pay fast food prices.

Dieses Essen ist fantastisch - This meal is fantastic!

2010-12-14T18:06:00.001-05:00

I tend to lean toward spanish and asian flavors but the recent lows in the 20's sent me looking for the Dutch and German food of my youth.

In what can only be described as a perfect storm Jodi Kasten www.eatjax.com made a fantastic sausage from turkey and other thanksgiving leftovers and I was lucky to get some to sample. I also received oxheart cabbage and green onions from Veggie Bin http://theveggiebin.weebly.com/ this week. My brother in law works for a beer distributor and was kind enough to throw this insane Sierra Nevada Pale Ale mustard in the mix.

I browned the sausages in a frying pan (too cold to grill) then I added a can of beer and let them simmer. I sauteed the green onions with dried penzy thyme in a dutch oven. At the same time I boiled the cabbage in a cup apple cider vinegar and a cup of water for 10 minutes. After draining I added the cabbage to to the onion and thyme mixture. I boiled some wholewheat shells and made a cheese sauce from equal parts of shredded cheddar and evaporated milk. The sausage was topped with the Sierra Nevada mustard. We ate this meal Monday & Tuesday for dinner and I credit it with warming our bones, nothing but scotch or whiskey could do a better job.

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Eating New Hampshire

2010-12-12T22:58:00.000-05:00

We went to New Hampshire in early December to surprise my in-laws and see our niece for the first time. For the past five years, everytime we go clams, lobster, harpoon and fried turkey are enjoyed this year Chi Chi and Gingerbread houses were added to the list of must haves.

Cold enough to keep your Harpoon cold. We were 45 minutes from Harpoon's Vertmont location in May we took the tour they had great food and fantastic beer of course.

We are planning to go up in July for the New England BBQ Championships and also in October for Octoberfest. They have a great beer garden menu

http://www.harpoonbrewery.com/index.cfm/pid/28596/cdid/29340

No surprise the Vermonter Panini is delightful.

I love going where food is made I have been to Stoneyfield Farm Yogurt in NH, Ben and Jerry's in VT, Hershey in PA.

Frying Turkey

Chi Chi

This drink will be the stuff of legends soon! I'm planning on debuting it at our friends Sip and See Party once her baby is born.

You may make yours right now if you'd like. Be careful it tastes non alcoholic but your toes will be tingling after one.

1/5 100 proof vodka
1 can CoCo Lopez
Large Can Pineapple Juice
frozen lemonade (made to package directions)
frozen orange juice (made to package directions)

Blend all ingredients and freeze for at least two days. When ready to serve scoop into a glass and add 7up or sprite (I would use diet since the frozen mix is quite sweet) 50/50 ratio

After my Chi Chi the Turkey was done.

Lobsters are so insanely cheap our plane tickets practically pay for themselves. I wonder what TSA's policy is on lobster transport.

Wicked fresh steamers. Boil the clams and serve with a bowl or cup of broth and melted butter. dip your clam in the broth to wash any sandy bits and follow with butter. These clams are huge compared to any I've seen in the Southeast.

Decorated my first gingerbread house.

Foodie Beer Dinner

2010-12-08T16:57:00.001-05:00

This orientation problem sure does make a case for my easy blogger driod updates, never had this happen with my regular camera. I've reloaded multiple times and am considered computer savvy but I'm over it so sorry about the pictures below.

Cari food lover, world traveler, food blogger cari_viCARIous who also now works as Business Manager for Intution Ale Works had the brilliant idea of getting food bloggers together for a potluck and beer tasting. When food lovers get together lookout! We ate food, we talked food and we enjoyed the People's Pale Ale and I-10 IPA (I forgot to have a glass of this, so I must put it on the to do list.) I was least impressed with my own creations of swiss chard with sunday bacon and curried pumpkin soup. My taste buds much prefered tasting everyone elses offerings.

These bravo potatoes were fiery. I believe they had red pepper, garlic, beer, peppers and potatoes.

Nancy's Pork and Chiles was incredible spicy but not overwhelming. I was lucky enough to be able to take some home and the next day paired it was a slice of the slightly sweet guiness bread. YUM and perfect for this frigid weather we are so not used to.

Organic swiss chard with unccured applegate sunday bacon. Next time I would make it right before serving and use let bacon. It ended up quite soggy but lucky bacon cures most ills.

Fredrick made this guiness bread and I for one will hunt him down for the recipe. He said there was a bottle of guiness in each loaf. It had a touch of sweetness but wasn't a dessert bread. This must make an appreance at our St. Pat's potluck!

The guiness beef stew was also Frederick's creation and it was delicious I have made mine in a very long time so I don 't know if my recipe is as good. It would probably be wise for me to compare the recipe before I make it again. I thought my liquid was more like gravy and his more like au jus.

Great tablescape at Cari's

Awesome cheese plate; hard cheese, stinky chesse, creamy cheese and goey sweet topped cheese!

Datil Pepper jelly from Bistro de Leon (I need to get a jar asap), guava paste, honey comb and marcona almonds

Jodi made the most wonderful stout chocolate cakes I eat it so fast it didn't get it's picture taken. I would also love to request the recipe these would make a great St. Pat's addition.

Those that had the stout cakes at Cari's had it served with ganache, pepita brittle and sorbet!

Follow these food lovers

Nancy_White krischislett cari_viCARIous intuitionale findingfl jaxfinedining eatjax

i love veggie bin

2010-12-02T18:40:00.001-05:00

I got my delivery from veggie bin and I was excited to cook kohlrabi for the first time. I sliced mine thin with my mandoline and then juliened the pieces. I sauteed it down until soft and slightly carmelized added salt, pepper, red pepper flakes and two cloves of garlic . It was delish

Also in this batch were juicy satsuma oranges, radishes, broccoli, argula and some great kale that I plan on sharing with some fantastic foodies at the beer pairing dinner Tuesday.

I love getting weekly fresh local fruits and veggies delivered! You can too http://theveggiebin.weebly.com/

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palm valley fish camp - scallop basket

2010-11-30T22:53:00.002-05:00

This is fantastic but Palm Valley sources such great seafood it seems like waste to have it fried. I do remeber I was hell bent on this day for fried seafood on account of a skipped breakfast. I have not had a meal a Palm Valley that I have not been impressed with.

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palm valley fish camp - clam bellies!

2010-11-30T22:50:00.002-05:00

Until a few years ago I had no idea what a clam belly even was but since marrying my husband who is from New England I won't touch a clam strip. A good clam belly remind me of a good fried oyster but not as large chewy and meaty and delicious. A clam strip just seems to be all fry and no clam. Clam bellies are hard to find this far south aS far as I know only Palm Valley and sister restaurant Marker 32 carry them. An appetizer portion will run you about $12 pretty expensive but worth it if you got the batch I got this day.

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palm valley fish camp - seared tuna salad

2010-11-30T22:47:00.002-05:00

My mom gets this salad everytime we go. The tuna is seared perfectly the avocado is creamy and the sauce on the plate is sweet (eel sauce) and spicy (wasabi).

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palm valley fish camp - grilled octopus & white bean salad

2010-11-30T22:46:00.001-05:00

This is such a fantastic dish ! The octopus is chewy and slightly crispy oh my. The white beans are large and I've never had any fresh beans like this. I put the datil vinegar that is on the table on my white beans I eat all the octopus first. The only other octopus I've had that I like as much is from 13 gypsies.

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Palm Valley Fish Camp on Urbanspoon

Matthew's - Escargot

2010-11-30T22:44:00.001-05:00

Candy and I were at Matthew's for the Jacksonville Magazine party and we couldn't leave without sitting in the lounge and enjoying this creamy escargot removed from the shell. As of late Matthew's and Orsay are my go to places if I need as escargot fix.

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Matthew's - Duo of Beef

2010-11-30T22:43:00.001-05:00

I am blessed with the gift of ordering what is usually the best thing on any given menu. A great restaurant makes it easy because chances are they aren't serving anything you aren't going to love if you pick something with ingredients you like. This was also ordered from the Lounge the same night Candy and I split the escargot. The filet was awesome the short rib outstanding!

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Karma -Folio Weekly BiteClub

2010-10-05T20:14:00.000-04:00

Spaghetti alla puttanesca literally whore's spaghetti

2010-09-25T19:14:00.000-04:00

Matthew's Catering Preview

2010-09-24T19:02:00.000-04:00

Candy's Birthday at Spy Sushi and Saketini Lounge

2010-09-21T17:59:00.000-04:00

Spy Sushi and Saketini Lounge on Urbanspoon

Bistro de Leon

2010-08-21T22:02:00.000-04:00

Bistro de Leon on Urbanspoon

Orsay to celebrate the new job

2010-08-10T20:23:00.000-04:00

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Orsay on Urbanspoon

St. Pete / Tampa Trip

2010-07-31T21:28:00.000-04:00

Hamburger Mary's for Bill & Tavia's Baby Shower and Drag Queen Bingo

Made an awesome omelet in a wok

Ceviche

Ceviche on Urbanspoon

Chew

2010-07-23T21:24:00.000-04:00

Salt Life

2010-07-17T21:21:00.000-04:00

Taverna

2010-07-03T21:07:00.000-04:00

A Top 25 To Do List

2010-06-20T13:08:00.000-04:00

Jacksonville Magazine publishes a Top 25 (and other notable eateries in the area)every year. I decided I needed to see how many places mentioned in the article I have yet to visit. I'll have to update when they post the 2010 edition in September.

Yet to try;
619 Ocean View
aqua grill
95 cordova
avile's
juliette's bistro
salt
blackstone grill
dwight's bistro
marker 32
mezza luna
nineteen
eleven south
ocean 60
beech street grill
espana
sarnelli's
sorbello's
joe's second street bistro
opus 39
present moment cafe
plae
bistro de leon
collage
the reef
blu grotto
river city brewing company
zaitoon
morton's
the row
capital grille
sorrento
beach road chicken dinners
chizu
o'steens
giovanni’s
charthouse
hilltop
homestead
wine cellar

Tried;
north beach bistro
bistro aix
mitchell's
shula's 347
roy's
bonefish
ruth chris
melting pot
13 gypsies
cantina laredo
b.b's
biscotti's
blue bamboo
azurea
orsay
pastiche
brick
lemongrass
chew
matthew's
29 south
thai garden
whitey's fish camp
bono's
ragtime

Full article
http://www.jacksonvillemag.com/pdfs/JM_46-57lo.pdf

The Trek to French Pantry

2010-05-15T18:43:00.000-04:00

French Pantry on Urbanspoon

The Best Pizza & Salad You Probably Haven't Tried Yet

2010-05-05T19:03:00.000-04:00

Arte Pizza on Urbanspoon

I love produce markets

2009-09-03T11:20:00.000-04:00

Jacksonville has many produce markets and the costs are usually cheaper than your local grocery store. Here are just a few!

• Jacksonville Farmers Market (Beaver St.) pre-dawn to dusk, all 365 days of the year http://www.jaxfarmersmarket.com/default.asp
• Hemming Plaza Market 10am-2pm, Every Friday. (Subject to weather.) http://www.downtownjacksonville.org/things-to-do/downtown-vision-events/hemming-plaza-market
• St Johns Town Center Every Friday from 3pm -8pm http://www.sjtcfarmersmarket.com/Welcome.html
• Riverside Arts Market Saturday, April to December 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM http://www.riversideartsmarket.com/index.html
• Beaches Green Market Every Saturday 2- 5 PM http://beacheslocalfoodnetwork.web.officelive.com/greenmarket.aspx
• Mandarin Local Farmers Market at Whole Foods Market Sundays 2:00pm to 6:00pm http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/jacksonville/storecalendar.php
• Pecan Park Flea and Farmers Market (unsure of hours please contact them directly) http://www.pecanparkrvresort.com
• Fernandina Farmers Market Every Saturday, 9am - 1pm http://www.fernandinafarmersmarket.com/

Pinegrove Deli

2009-07-13T17:09:00.000-04:00

This tiny place is in my neighborhood not even on the main drag it's been around I believe 40 years. The reason is it is GOOD! Not fancy, not big, just good and the owner and his family are so friendly. I have enjoyed everything I got there but today I tried the cuban.(insert harp chords)

I saw a chef who listed the cuban as an "interest" on Facebook and I said if he likes it that much it must be good. No lie I got the small version and was disappointed at the size then I unwrapped and saw the most amazing cuban. More meat then bread! Slow roasted pork oozing out the sides. Toasted on the outside but still soft and not hard. Genius! And the price with tax no drink, no sides $6.41 sweet

Ted's Montana Grill

2009-07-12T23:07:00.000-04:00

I've been twice and got bison burgers both times. The burgers are great and the toppings are imaginative. Avocado, Monterey Jack, Green Chilis wonderful! However, both times it took 30 minutes+ to get our food. I will say the food is worth it but just don't go in expecting to eat quick and you'llbe fine.

High Tide

2009-06-28T16:36:00.000-04:00

Nopales with mushrooms is all I have to say (in a soft taco). I can't get cactus anywhere else yum! I also got it with the medium salsa verde and churro beans to combat any blandness that I heard off. Yes they charge you extra for chips but so what they are good chips.

The torta looked great as well but I myself have not tried it plus I wasn't in the mood for all that bread.

My Wedding Menu -- Catering

2009-04-11T10:42:00.000-04:00

- Coconut Curry Shrimp Rolled in Crushed Banana Chips and Macadamia Nuts
- Pulled Flank Steak with Caribbean Barbecue Sauce on Hawaiian Rolls
- Tangerine-Ginger Glazed Sides of Salmon with Snow Pea Jicama Slaw
- Key West Black Bean Salad with Hominy and Chick Peas
- Island Jerk Chicken Skewers with Mango Relish
- Citrus Scented Cous Cous with Mint, Sweet Corn, and Smoked Almonds

We also had passed assorted sushi a coworker of Matt's made for us.

One of my favorite restaurants, Pastiche did the Catering and they were awesome
http://www.mypastiche.com

Azurea @ One Ocean

2009-04-06T08:47:00.000-04:00

I took my mom for her birthday the first week in April and we both got salads. I got the seared tuna grilled pineapple salad and my mom got the seafood cobb. Both generous portions and quality seafood plus we sat outside and the weather was awesome and I got a tan while eating which never hurts. The service was great and not stuffy @ all.

We also ordered a lot of room service the two times we stayed at the hotel. They do it all well from simple, grilled cheese and tomato soup to sophisticated, lobster benedict. I love bendicts and I was impressed to taste a hint of lime and cayenne in the hollandaise.

Save money on a vacation stay at One Ocean!

Orsay

2009-02-25T16:51:00.000-05:00

My new favorite

Matt had the foie gras filet mignon and I had the rabbit enough said! We also were so very impressed with all the speciality cocktails. Especially the jalepeno pear margarita and the strawberry fields. We also had a fantastic raw bar sampler of calamari salad, raw oysters,poached shrimp & mussels. Worth every cent and dangerously within walking distance from the house! I want to go back soooo bad but am busy with wedding plans but after it is open season!

Taco Lu's

2009-02-05T14:25:00.000-05:00

I have many favorite Mexican / Fresh Mex / Southwestern places but I have different things that I like at each place. I heard Taco Lu's was great but I was scared I love the Tacos from Burrito Gallery and I didn't want that to change. Good news I love the Taco Lu tacos (we got a couple of each kind to try at the table) but all the insides are totally different from Burrito Gallery. Taco Lu's is out of my way but if I need a bangin' shrimp or lamb taco I'm gonna make that drive stat.

Here is a summary of some of my favorites in the same genre
MossFire seared ahi tacos or buffalo shrimp toastada
Tijuana Flats Dos Tacos beef and black bean crunchy shell bjolts(jalenpeno, onion, lettuce, tomato, sour cream)I have no clue about that b
Burrito Gallery my new favorites are terayaki tofu (this comes in a burrito too!) or black bean tacos (also love the steak, carnitas and shrimp)
Cantina Laredo top shelf guac and the CAMARON POBLANO ASADA

Ruth's Chris Steak House

2008-06-29T12:56:00.000-04:00

We love steak so when I took my husband here I knew it would be good. In fact it was great. The intense heat they use with the seasoning is excellent and also reminds me this is what they are know for, steak is in the name. I always get a filet mignon because the size and tenderness whenever I order steak and it was indeed wonderful. However we got a bit more imaginative with Matt's order. I asked them what cut of steak did they have that was different that not every place has. That my friend is when we learned of the Cowboy Ribeye. Oh my it is the ribeye with the bone in. It gives it such an intense great flavor. It was so awesome Matt wanted to pick up the bone and chew on it which I said he really should not do at this lovely establishment. However this is such a phenom that they had bone doggie bags so Matt could munch at home and then give said bone to our dog.

13 Gypsies

2008-05-25T16:56:00.000-04:00

We went for Mandy's birthday soon after they opened. Just the girls and some wines and we all ordered different tapas to share. It was wonderful angry bull and blackened octopus were my favorites.

Now I get to pop in for lunch when I can and the double cow of hot roast beef is great. I also like whatever soup is cooking.

If you are set on going here you may want to make reservations (even for lunch) the place is tiny. It is worth it though and Kiki and Chef deliver very person service.

Matthew's

2007-08-17T14:47:00.000-04:00

This is a great place and you should really treat yourself to the chef's tasting menu with the wine flight. You will drop some money but it will be very worth it. I suggest this too because not many places have a course menu with wines so it makes the experience. You can find other establishments that have the entrees in the same price range but go for it! It was a great experience. Our waiter and the sommelier were very knowledgable about the wine and the food.

Pattaya Thai Restaurant Try the dinner specialties

2007-07-09T16:01:00.000-04:00

I had been here for lunch and found everything to be quite good. When I went for dinner I got a real treat. We ordered the house specialities offered on the first page of the menu. I had the shrimp pineapple curry bowl. So good! Served in a hollowed pineapple with an orchid to decorate shrimp, curry, pineapple, and red and green peppers. Wonderful and it didn't come with a bunch of rice to bog you down I am sure I could have asked for some but I didn't want it. My fiance also choose from this menu area. He got grilled shrimp and veggies. The shrimp were huge the veggies were great with a ginger sauce. Also no rice to bog us down. The entrees were more expensive but definately worth it.

Bb's

2007-06-15T16:36:00.000-04:00

Rock Shrimp Salad + Calamari appetizer

Insanely wonderful! The asian touches in these two dishes are spot on. Without being too heavy even though the shrimp and calamari are both fried. Oh and the crossiant bread pudding is great I didn't even know I like bread pudding... I do now.

Arte Pizza Fernandina

2007-06-04T16:20:00.000-04:00

THE BEST PIZZA EVER

I guess that depends on what you are looking for but me personally I like thin crust pizza my favorite in the area is Al's and Pizza Palace. They are good but this was so fantastic and authentic and wonderful. Super thin wood fired pizza they have a great menu but the two times I went I decided on the pizza of the day. The one time was for shrimpfest and I got a shrimp, lives and avocado pizza. Yummy! Next I went back a few weeks later and got a garlic, ricotta, meatball and pepperoni number. Super Yummy! I will be back for sure.

Green Lake Chinese Restaurant

2006-12-13T16:21:00.000-05:00

Chinese usually takes a back seat to all of my asian favorites. It never seems fresh. Not true at Green lake the place is very small so I recommend take out. Everthing is fresh. Looks like a typical Chinese take out but I think you'll taste the difference.

West Inn Cantina This used to be my Cheers

2006-12-01T15:28:00.000-05:00

Yes West Inn Cantina a home away from home. Live music Wed- Friday. A drive-thru package liquor store. Friendly wait staff and food that is way above the bar food standard. Fresh specials every night as well. Sit outside on the patio and you'll get less of a bar feel. Regulars always adorn the bar and for good reason. It is a place you want to keep coming back to. I met my boyfriend (now husband 4/11/09) there a year and a half ago and we now have a dog named Monty. (the place used be called Monty's and people still refer to it that way)

Bistro Aix A Mixed Bag

2006-11-30T15:00:00.001-05:00

Everyone raves so I had to go. The first time I went I had the pear salad and escargot and maybe I wasn't feeling to great that day but I was not impressed. The pear was not ripe the dressing was undetectable and the escargot had a dirt flavor and was in a sweet instead of savory puff pastry. Yipes

However, Bistro Aix and I had a rematch two Saturdays ago and I was very pleased! Our whole party of 15 enjoyed their meals and that says something with all the picky eaters out there. I choose Salmon as my theme. I had the Salmon Tartare which was delicious followed by the smoked salmon, caviar and creme fraishe pizza. I only had two small sized pieces since it was so big and I was already full from the tartare. I ate it later and it was just as wonderful.

Despite my mixed experience I would go back but have not had the chance since finding so many other places to try.

Lake Shore Produce Market BEST Produce and Price hands down!

2006-10-13T15:15:00.000-04:00

Sugar plums, berries, spinach, nuts, tomatos that taste like tomatos, flax sees, nut better, salad dressings, local eggs, local milk, local bread, local sausage, buffalo. Way better than the outdoor produce stands where everything is dirty. If they sold toilet paper and stoneyfield farm yogurt I could eliminate the grocery store altogether! I love this place.

Cool Moose Coffee Company Inexpensive and relaxed with good food to boot

2006-08-15T15:55:00.000-04:00

As you may see from my reviews I do the brunch thing quite often. This is one of my favorite places. Casual enough to roll in pajamas. The have a standard menu but have some really cool specials as well I have blue corn grits with andoille sausage my mom enjoyed banana foster pancakes before. My new favorite is the hello which is a toasted everything bagel with garlic, onion, smoked salmon and cream cheese. When you are broke and need a bite... They have eggs, cheese, meat sandwiches that are barely more expensive than BK or MCD and I would much rather eat here. My boyfriend loves there coffee I don't drink coffee but it is supposed to me good. I think it is green mountain brand and self serve.

The Costa Rica breakfast special is awesome when you are there beg them to add it to the menu

Sliders Seafood Grille THE BEST STEAMED OYSTERS

2006-07-01T15:30:00.000-04:00

Get bushel you will kick yourself if you just get a dozen. The bushel is steamed. If you prefer raw you can get them by the dozen. Or try the Oyster Rockefeller or Casino. Lots of other good stuff on the menu but I just focus on oysters here. Wonderful on a Sunday after the beach. You can go in sandy or sit outside very laid back.

Burrito Gallery $7 for three of my favorite tacos on the planet!

2006-06-29T15:09:00.000-04:00

It says burrito in the name and they are good but I love the tacos they are soooo fresh. I like the mahi or carnitas or shimp or steak. No problem you can order one of each. It is like $7 for three tacos! The chimichurri sauce and homemade salsa verdi are fantastic. It does not come with stupid beans and rice to fill you up. There is also have a cool bar out back. I had my birthday and a friends engagement party here we had a blast. Music is usually going on in the back. If you go on an artwalk wednesday it is packed.

Biscotti's

2006-05-13T16:32:00.000-04:00

Rock Shrimp Pizza -- Mango Chicken Quesadilla

I have had several items from the menu but these are my favorites! Also a great place for brunch. A nice selection of high end teas and coffees. Grab the paper and read it cover to cover. It is usually pretty busy but a wonderful atmosphere to relax in. I love BB's on the other side of the river too!

Mantra Boston, MA

2006-03-15T16:15:00.000-05:00

Mozzarella and Green Chili Naan
Yum I cam still taste this! I popped in a business trip alone I just snuck into the bar and had some great apps and wine. Wonderful!

Brick for Brunch

2006-01-15T16:46:00.000-05:00

Tour De Brunch

Several friends said they didn't enjoy the food that much when they went. Perhaps it was right after they first opened. I have always enjoyed what I ordered for dinner. The brunch to me though is the reason for coming. My favorite rendition of huevos rancheros ever!. A tortilla, poached eggs, fresh avocado, black beans and wonderful! They also have a selection of Benedict's that are superb ...crab cake, tenderloin, regular. The outside seating is nice. I wanted to add we actually did a tour de brunch when Lance was doing the tour de france. This was a stop as well at Biscotti's, Metro Diner (San Marco) and Cool Moose.

Mossfire Grill

2005-11-30T16:28:00.000-05:00

It's not mexican it is not fesh mex it is it's own breed and Mossfire does it right. Even my picky eater friends dig this place. Some of the faves are ... buffalo shrimp salad, seared ahi tuna, and the chicken empandas. There selection of tequila is insane too.

Pastiche

2005-09-15T16:50:00.001-04:00

French Country Yummy

Very nice quiet place. It is my favorite for my b-day or an special occasion. I love the cheese appetizer which is three chesses, nuts, figs and raisin bread. The crab soup is also to die for. I have tried almost everything on the menu and have never been disappointed. They catered my friends wedding and it was great they will cater my wedding! The menu changes all the time so you never get board. I will be working over in this neighborhood soon and I can't wait to make it there for lunch as well. Very nice but not snobby.

Baleen - Paradise Point Resort San Diego, CA

2001-02-15T16:12:00.000-05:00

Wonderful individual cottage type rooms set in thousands of bird of paradise right on Mission Bay. The restraunts were great and the place was beautiful.

I had the whole friend snapper and lobster martini it was delicious!