Sunday, February 28, 2010

Fleur Irisée's Tweets (February 2010)

 
February 2010
Tweets on Twitter by Fleur Irisée
  • 2/27/2010 National Observance: Today is National Kahula Day! I'd love to have a National Centennario Tequila Day!
  • 2/26/2010 National Observance: It's Pistachio Day! Per serving, pistachios have more antioxidants than green tea. http://www.pistachiohealth.com/
  • 2/25/2010 National Observances: 2-in-1 day! National Clam Chowder Day & National Chocolate-Covered Nuts Day (Feb 25th) http://www.thenibble.com
  • 2/23/2010 May 10, 2010: Find Wedding Entertainment for your big night @ Boston's Hard Rock Cafe's Wedding Reception Event! http://bit.ly/HardRockWed
  • 2/22/2010 National Observance: Today is National Margarita Day (Feb 22nd). Tequila is my favorite! http://www.milagrotequila.com/MilRecipeBook0328.pdf
  • 2/19/2010 Shutter Island movie opens today. I can't wait to view it tonight while indulging on a bag of buttered popcorn! http://www.shutterisland.com/
  • 2/17/2010 Off to enjoy some night skiing at Wachusett Mountain! http://www.wachusett.com/TheMountain/Services/NightSkiing/tabid/74/Default.aspx
  • 2/15/2010 National Observance: Today is National Gumdrop Day (Feb 15th) & Susan B. Anthony's Birthday ... so celebrate with the gelatin-based candy!
  • 2/14/2010 Happy Valentine's Day - a day that reminds us to appreciate our family, friends, pets and more! http://bit.ly/VDay_History
  • 2/13/2010 "the driving force behind the steady growth of [outsourcing work]...is the growing burden of rules & regulations for employers" - P. Drucker
  • 2/13/2010 National Observance: It's National Tortellini Day! tor-teh-LEE-nee originated in Bologna. Legend=the shape's a model of goddess Venus' navel
  • 2/12/2010 Movie: The Wolfman opens today, & I was told it's not appropriate for my V-Day "dinner-and-a-movie" night. http://www.thewolfmanmovie.com/
  • 2/12/2010 Girl Scout Cookie Sales! If you don't know any scouts, Feb. 18 & 19, 11am - 6pm, Prudential Food Court http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/
  • 2/10/2010 I will be there on Valentines - I plan to have the fondue, so don't run out! @CityTable http://www.citytableboston.com/
  • 2/10/2010 Harvest Restaurant Review: (Positive) http://bit.ly/atNToa http://www.harvestcambridge.com/
  • 2/9/2010 National Observance: Today is National Bagels and Lox Day (Feb 9th)
  • 2/7/2010 WINNERS!!! Go Saints!! http://www.neworleanssaints.com/
  • 2/7/2010 Super Bowl XLIV, 2010: Yes, I am rooting for the SAINTS!! http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/44
  • 2/5/2010 National Observance: Today is National Chocolate Fondue Day! Get your dipping sticks ready to dunk cake, rice crispy treats, fruits, etc.!
  • 2/3/2010 Movie: From Paris with Love, opens Feb. 5th. It'll be nice to see John Travolta - he's had such a tough yr. http://frompariswithlovefilm.com/
  • 2/2/2010 Groundhog Day: Most local groundhogs did not see their shadows on Groundhog Day 2010, even though Punxsutawney Phil did http://bit.ly/aUDfKb

Sofra Cafe Review

Sofra
My Opinions: I plan on going back and trying everything I can carry! - Food quality is great and, since many of these flavors are not what I typically encounter, it was a surprise party in my mouth with all the new bites. I will not skip the Mezze Bar next time - Staff is knowledgeable and very kind to newbies like myself! - I must admit, I am not a fan of the Turkish Coffee, but I was warned - Seating is limited, but the wait is not too bad and the crowd is eclectic and friendly - It's the younger family member to Oleana Restaurant.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Earthquake Cookie - Egg Sandwich w/Haloumi (yummy cheese) - Turkish Coffee

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 2/27/2010
Amount Visited: 1+
Experiences: Brunch

Address: 1 Belmont Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Website: http://www.sofrabakery.com  Phone: (617) 661-3161
Social Networking:  Facebook /Sofra Bakery & Cafe

Asana Restaurant Review

Asana at the Mandarin Oriental Boston
My Opinions: Another great dinner with a surprise table-visit from their chef,  Chef Nathan Rich, who is not only excellent in the kitchen, but also very pleasant in person ... these personal touches mean a lot in a time where people aren't going out to dinner as much – Service is excellent … attentive with a touch of Asian flair – Food is high-end, fresh and well-prepared – Cleanliness is kept to the highest of standards – Dining room is spacious and relaxing with a great view of Boylston Street – If you have a favorite table, ask the host make a note of the table number and they will try to seat you there every time - Don't forget to ask to get your valet ticket validated for a discount.

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Yellowfin Tuna Tartar - Afternoon Tea - Bento Box – Wild Mushroom Risotto – Floating Island – Pork Dumpling – Eggs Benedict – Brioche French Toast – Asian Roasted Chicken Salad - Cheese Cave Cuts

Most Recent Visit: 2/27/2010
Amount Visited: 30+
Experiences: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Address: 776 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02199
Website: http://www.mandarinoriental.com/boston/dining  Phone: (617) 535-8800
Social Networking: Twitter @MO_BOSTON  -  Facebook /Mandarin Oriental, Boston

Older Asana PostsFebruary 2010  -  January 2010

Friday, February 26, 2010

OM Restaurant and Lounge Review

OM Restaurant and Lounge
My Opinions: They have nice restaurant seating upstairs with floor-to-ceiling windows that look out into Harvard Sq. - Food is very good, but a bit pricey – the lounge area downstairs is great with cushy seating and funky djs on certain nights. They even offer a semi-private room for small parties – To Note: they now offer a special gluten-free à la carte menu including entrées and desserts and some of Om's wine list is organic.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Momos – Sweet Potato Ravioli – Sesame Chicken Skewers – Moulard Paillard – Roasted Chicken – Lamb Ribs

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 2/25/2010
Amount Visited: 25+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 92 Winthrop Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Website: http://www.omrestaurant.com  Phone: (617) 576-2800
Social Networking:  Twitter @OM_Restaurant  -  Facebook /Om Restaurant

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Meritage Restaurant Review

Meritage at the Boston Harbor Hotel
My Opinions: Delicious and excellent as always - the service is great and the food is of the highest quality - Chef, Daniel Bruce does a great job keeping the menu interesting - Great wine list, even if it is a bit pricey - The little bar is cute, but typically empty since there are better bar options close by ... try the Wharf Bar downstairs!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Smoked Salmon – Fricassee of Sweetbreads and Wild Mushrooms – Pheasant – Lamb Sirloin – Wood Grilled Filet Mignon

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Most Recent Visit: 2/23/2010
Amount Visited: 30+
Experiences: Dinner

Address: 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
Website: http://www.meritagetherestaurant.com  Phone: (617) 439-3995
Social Networking: Twitter @MeritageAtBHH  -  Facebook /Meritage

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Rowes Wharf Bar Review

Rowes Wharf Bar @ the Boston Harbor Hotel
My Opinions:  I have always been curious about dining here, and I finally got a chance to after my meeting with Mr. Bovin, the Catering Manager.  I have enjoyed the Sea Grille and Meritage many times, so my expectations were high, and I was pleasantly pleased - The food was fresh and well seasoned; although this was a more casual atmosphere, the service was of the same caliber as in Meritage - Bar seemed very nice and accommodating for the single diner/drinker ... something for me to try in 2010!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Bar Seafood Tasting Plate - Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass - Cheeseburger with Buttermilk Fried Onion Rings - Warm Bartlett Pear Crisp

Most Recent Visit: 2/23/2010
Amount Visited: 1+
Experiences: Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
Websitehttp://www.bhh.com/wharf.htm  Phone:  (617) 439.7000
Social Networking: Twitter @bohaho  –  Facebook /Boston Harbor Hotel

Caliterra Restaurant & Bar Review

Caliterra Bar & Grille at the Hilton
My Opinions: I really enjoy coming here as a single diner/drinker - The staff is great, especially Dragon the bartender! - I just found out they offer a buffet breakfast every morning (yum!). It's something on my "to-try" list for 2010 - The food is surprisingly good, fresh and well prepared. I always start with the Heirloom Tomato Salad – Service is excellent at the bar – The décor is comfortable and basic – Bar scene is hit-or-miss because of the Hilton Hotel, it’s not a typical pick-up spot, but can offer some interesting patron.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Chicken lettuce Wraps – Wild Mushroom Pizza – Pepperoni Pizza – Heirloom Tomato Salad – Filet Mignon Sandwich – Chicken Panini – Turkey Panini

Most Recent Visit: 2/21/2010
Amount Visited: 30+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 89 Broad Street, Boston, MA 02110
Website: http://www.caliterrarestaurant.com  Phone: (617) 348-1234
Social Networking: Twitter @CaliterraBoston 

Older Caliterra Posts: September 2009

Monday, February 22, 2010

Stephi's on Tremont Restaurant & Bar Review

Stephi's on Tremont
My Opinions:  The food and drink is very good, just like it's older sister restaurant, Stephanie's on Newbury - Service is decent - The interior is an attractive setup - I enjoy coming here for brunch and for the outside dining in the warm season ... great people watching and meeting!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Croque Senora – Fresh Fruit Salad – Roast Turkey Club Goes Salad – Arepa con Chorizo – Salty Pretzel Crusted Crab Cake Benedict

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 2/20/2010
Amount Visited: 10+
Experiences: Brunch, Lunch, Bar

Address: 571 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02118
Website: http://www.stephisontremont.com  Phone: (617) 236-2063
Social Networking:

Friday, February 19, 2010

Market Restaurant Review

Market by Jean Georges at the W Hotel
My Opinions: I typically stick to the lobby bar - I like the food, but the dining room service was average and disconnected ... too many people trying to do the same thing - Bar inside the restaurant was convenient, but the lounge in the lobby was more fun and social - I'm curious as to what, if anything, they're going to do with those lounge fire pits in the Summer? They put off a lot of heat. I suggest turning them into a zen flower garden!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Arctic Char Sashimi – Lobster with Basil Butter Lemon Spaetzle - Soy Glazed Short Ribs – Cookies and Confections – MARKET Cheeseburger – Warm Chocolate Cake

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 2/18/2010
Amount Visited: 10+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 100 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116
Website: http://www.marketbyjgboston.com  Phone: (617) 310-6790
Social Networking: Facebook /Market by Jean-Georges

W Lounge Review

W Lounge at the W Hotel Boston
My Opinions:  I like coming here, but the scene is not consistent ... hopefully these are simply growing pains - The bar is the most social section, the tables can be a bit ostracizing, so try to get a spot on the stools early - The valet here is pretty expensive and it's difficult to park close, so if you can take a cab, do so, or help convince them to reduce their valet pricing. Validate for a discount perhaps ... like the Mandarin Oriental.
Some Food/Drink Tasted: Truffle Fontina Pizza – Cookies and Confections – MARKET Cheeseburger – Warm Chocolate Cake ... you can get the Market menu, but it's more fun to enjoy the bite-sized menu out in the lounge.

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 2/18/2010
Amount Visited: 10+
Experiences: Bar

Address: 100 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116
Website: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/boston  Phone: (617) 261-8700
Social Networking:  Facebook /W Hotels

Older W Lounge Posts: January 2010

Jacob Wirth Co. Restaurant & Bar Review

Jacob Wirth Co.
My Opinions:  I have only experienced the bar here, but the atmosphere was surprisingly lively ... the outside looks like an old fashioned shop, not a bar/restaurant, so I never thought of going in to enjoy drinking festivities, but it was well-lit inside with a large amount of space and seating. I haven't tried the food, but I heard there is a lot of meat offered on the menu ... particularly sausages.  Hmmmm

Most Recent Visit: 2/18/2010
Amount Visited: 1+
Experiences: Bar

Patronage Inclination:  Fleeting

Address: 31 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116
Website: www.jacobwirth.com  Phone: (617) 338-8586
Social Networking:  Twitter @JacobWirth

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Wachusett Mountain Review

Wachusett Skiing
My Opinions: I have been skiiing since I was little, and snowboarding since I was in high school, so I try to take advantage of any opportunity to ski in the winter (and golf in all the other seasons) ... I'm an East Coast Resident, so that's what we do!  - The night skiing option is fantastic! It takes me about 45min to an hour to get to the mountain from Boston, so going late in the afternoon is not a bad ride and the discounted ticket helps too - It's not a big mountain, yet they do a good job keeping the trails groomed - The 4-seat chairlifts are nice if you are in a group - the bar at the lodge is decent ... beer is cold! - Definitely try the waffles in the outdoor hut by the lifts, they're delicious!

Most Recent Visit: 2/17/2010
Amount Visited: 100+

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address:  499 Mountain Road, Princeton, MA 01541
Website: www.wachusett.com  Phone: (978) 464-2300
Social Networking: Twitter @Wachusett  –  Facebook /Wachusett Mountain

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Capital Grille Restaurant Review

Capital Grille
My Opinions: I braved the snow storm to eat ... how very "Kristin" of me! This was my first time experiencing the Capital Grille in Burlington, MA and it was very good despite the unattractive location. Every one I have visited, including Denver, CO and Chestnut Hill, MA, has proved to offer a consistent and reliable high-quality of food and service – If you like you waiter you can always request him/her and they’ll do their best to seat you at their table – Top-notch cleanliness – Decent bar scene – If you want something offered at a different Capital Grille (like caviar), you can call ahead of time and they will ship it to your restaurant’s location!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Dry Aged Steak Au Poivre – Calamari – Oysters – Shrimp Cocktail – Wedge Salad – Tomato Salad – Filet Mignon – Swordfish – Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich – Lobster Mac N Cheese – Seasonal Mushrooms – Creamed Spinach – Asparagus – Truffle Fries

Most Recent Visit: 2/16/2010
Amount Visited: 100+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Address: 359 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02115 (multiple locations)
Website: http://capitalgrille.com  Phone: (617) 262-8900
Social Networking:

Older Capital Grille PostsJanuary 2010

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Jer-Ne Restaurant & Bar Review

Jer-Ne Restaurant & Bar at the Ritz Carlton Boston
My Opinions:  So embarrassing, but I came here twice today because it was convenient since I was seeing a movie in the early evening. They do a great job celebrating special occasions, and Valentine's Day was no exception! They even offered up single roses to all that came in (awww) - Also, we all know that brunch is my most treasured meal of the day, and I really enjoyed their breakfast (I still salivate for the brunch at Abe & Louie's and Stephanie's on Newbury) but this brunch was not half bad - I did notice that the brunch services is not as good as the dinner service ... even though neither are excellent - Food is always fresh and of fine quality - Bar Service is good - Really convenient location just across from the Boston Common ... if only they could add windows that opened for the warm season!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Ritz-Carlton Burger – Jer Ne Crab Cakes - Sweet Potato Hash - Egg White Omelet - Seasonal Soup - Chicken Club Sandwich - Chocolate Fondue

Most Recent Visit: 2/14/2010
Amount Visited: 50+
Experiences: Brunch, Dinner, Bar

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 10 Avery Street, Boston, MA 02111
Website: http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/BostonCommon/Dining  Phone: (617) 574-7176
Social Networking: Twitter @Ritz_Carlton

Friday, February 12, 2010

Cigar Masters Bar Review

Cigar Masters
My Opinions:  Another fun experience here. I like this unique experience since smoking indoors is so limited. I have yet to try their snack food options ... stick to the smokes, friendly company and decent wine selections - I do believe the smoking should be kept to the lounge and kept out of the humidor - Bar scene is always fun and social - Cigarettes are sold in the humidor - Since they only serve wine and beer, I like the locker storage VIP option, so you can have your own personal products on hand - The management and staff are very easy to work with for special events!

Most Recent Visit: 2/11/2010
Amount Visited: 50+
Experiences: Bar

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 745 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116 (multiple locations)
Website: http://www.cigarmasters.com  Phone: (617) 266-4400
Social Networking:  Twitter @Cigar_Masters  -  Facebook /Cigar Masters Boston

Older Cigar Master Posts: January 2010

Rocca Restaurant & Bar Review

Rocca 
My Opinions: I had the chance to work with their event's manager on an upcoming baptism dinner, my first planned event placed with this establishment, and she did a great job working with my client's budget and preferences! I would definitely refer another smaller dinner party to consider hosting their meal here - The upstairs dining room is airy and very comfortable. It even hosts another, smaller bar - Don't miss the outside dining during the warm season.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Arugula & Pear Salad – Arugula & Pomegranate Salad – Rigatoni Baked in a Pot – Pappardelle – Sirloin – Braised Short Ribs – Roasted Chicken – Smashed Almond Bark – Roasted Artichokes – Pacciugo di Portofino

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 2/11/2010
Amount Visited: 30+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 500 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
Website: http://www.roccaboston.com  Phone: (617) 451-5151
Social Networking:  Twitter @RoccaBoston  -  Facebook /ROCCA Boston

Older Rocca Posts: January2010

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Woodward Restaurant & Bar Review

Woodward at Ames Hotel
My Opinions: This is a restaurant within the circle of the Morgans Hotel Group ... as in, the Delano that I adore in South Beach, Florida and Mondrian in LA! I was very excited about the opening - My first inkling that this was not going to wow me was that no one from the hotel contacted me after I requested a walk through and intro via email and phone call – I came in for dinner and the service was average at best - the food was good, but not anything special or extremely tasty - the bartenders are the best part of coming here if you spend time at the bar - to nitpick: They could do a better job with their dish and stem wear as well as offering desireable wines by the glass - There are so many other places around here that offer the same atmosphere, but are easier to get to, have more alternative options within walking distance, and have better drinks ... I'm rooting for them to improve!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Short Rib Totellini – Chilled Crab – Roasted Squash Flatbread – Grilled Hangar Steak - Cod

Patronage Inclination: Fleeting

Most Recent Visit: 2/09/2010
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences: Dinner

Address: 1 Court Street, Boston, MA 02108
Website: http://www.woodwardatames.com  Phone: (617) 979-8200
Social Networking:  Facebook /Woodward at Ames

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Oak Room Restaurant & Bar Review

Oak Room at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel
My Opinions:  The service is formal, attentive and courteous - the food is good at both the bar and in the restaurant - I love the traditional decor, but I wish the lighting in the dining room would be dimmed more - Live music nights in the Lounge are a nice treat

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Beet Salad – Shrimp Cocktail – Baby Iceberg Wedges – Tableside Oak Room Chateaubriand – Club Cut New York Steak – Artichoke Dip – Panini – Center Cut Filet

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 2/09/2010
Amount Visited: 20+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 138 St. James Street, Boston, MA 02116
Website: http://www.theoakroom.com   Phone: (617) 267-5300
Social Networking:

Monday, February 8, 2010

Il Casale Restaurant & Bar Review

Il Casale
My Opinions:  I am a huge football fan, and after doing the party circuit with people who weren't cheering on the Saints as much as I was, I needed my full concentration to help them win.  So, I chose to stop by Il Casale during Super Bowl XLIV because I knew the  bar would be pretty quiet as this establishment doesn't have a sports-bar scene. I was right, it was very quiet in there, and I was surrounded by Saints fans, so I knew I picked the right place ... the only unpleasant thing about this visit was that they shut down the kitchen  extremely early without the courtesy of a warning to the few patrons in there - My free Business Development Advice: For places that don't have an active bar scene, their bars especially suffer during popular sporting events because the pubs/sports bars pull the crowds, so it is wise for these places to cater to special events like the Super Bowl and UFC and offer some food sports-specials (and advertise it 3 to 4 weeks beforehand).

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Sfizis – Semplice – Ravioli – Funghi Trifolati – Bistecca

Most Recent Visit: 2/07/2010
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Patronage Inclination: Fleeting

Address: 50 Leonard Street, Belmont, MA 02478
Website: http://www.ilCasaleBelmont.com  Phone: (617) 209-4942
Social Networking: Facebook /Il Casale

Previous PostsDecember 2009

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Tapeo Restaurant & Bar Review

Tapeo Restaurant
My Opinions: It's a casual-romantic atmosphere with a bar downstairs by the entry and a darker dining area off to the right. I like to eat upstairs by the windows that overlook beautiful Newbury Street - the Spanish Tapas Style encourages bonding, conversation and the chance to try a lot of different dishes - Food is delicious - Decent wine list - Table decanters are a nice touch – Their family restaurants include Dali, Bacco and Solea.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Plato Mixto – Ensalada Mixta – Pimientos Asados – Pato Braseado – Costillitas de Vaca – Empanadas – Queso de Cabra Montanes

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Most Recent Visit: 2/6/2010
Amount Visited: 50+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 266 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116
Website: http://www.Tapeo.com  Phone: (617) 267-4799
Social Networking:  Twitter @TapasAtTapeo  -  Facebook /Tapeo Restaurant

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Asana Restaurant Review

Asana at the Mandarin Oriental Boston
My Opinions: This past lunch was great, I really enjoy coming here. I should mention that the Mandarin's Valet is top-notch! They are formal and attentive and really try to make your interaction with them pleasant. Don't forget to get your valet card validated by Asana for a discount  – Service is excellent … attentive with a touch of Asian flair – Food is high-end, fresh and well-prepared – Cleanliness is kept to the highest of standards – Dining room is spacious and relaxing with a great view of Boylston Street – If you have a favorite table, ask the host make a note of the table number and they will try to seat you there every time.

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Yellowfin Tuna Tartar - Afternoon Tea - Bento Box – Wild Mushroom Risotto – Floating Island – Pork Dumpling – Eggs Benedict – Brioche French Toast – Asian Roasted Chicken Salad - Cheese Cave Cuts

Most Recent Visit: 2/06/2010
Amount Visited: 30+
Experiences: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Address: 776 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02199
Website: http://www.mandarinoriental.com/boston/dining  Phone: (617) 535-8800
Social Networking: Twitter @MO_BOSTON  -  Facebook /Mandarin Oriental, Boston

Older Asana Posts: January 2010

Friday, February 5, 2010

Harvest Restaurant Review

Harvest
My Opinions: Service is friendly with the expected casual "Harvard Sq." feel - The menu isn't too creative, but the food quality is good - I like the interior as a nice change of pace from the all the casual places offered in this artsy and scholastic area - the Bar area can be a fun since it pulls a consistent crowd - Sunday brunch breads are the best - The outside patio is very nice in the warm weather
Some Food/Drink Tasted: Griddled Croque Monsieur – Eggs Benedict – Beet Salad - Harvest Charcuterie – Wild Striped Bass – NY Striploin - Chicken Pot Pie

Most Recent Visit: 2/04/2010
Amount Visited: 30+
Experiences: Brunch, Dinner, Bar

Patronage Inclination
: Occasion
Address: 44 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Website: http://www.harvestcambridge.com  Phone: (617) 868-2255
Social Networking:  Facebook /Harvest Restaurant

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Shh, Winter's Brewing


SHH, WINTER'S BREWING


Gentle girl, I hold my breath just thinking about you
And wondering how many people love me.
Passing idle time with nonsense, reading, primping
Filling my environment with objects of distractions.
I should concentrate on my life and friends.

Gentle soul, who feels she can never be understood,
Has vanished without a trace.
All the anger and pain were taken, but left behind the unanswerable
And even prayers at sunrise will not share in its light.

And just what kind of unfairness are you imposing?
Selfishly consuming my breath in the presence of your absence
Time sliding by and reflecting the ever-early darkness around
Just waiting for all the leaves to finally fall from their tree.

Gentle child, eyes so deep, but filled with nothing.
What makes a hole hollow ...
Frozen in memory are details of your face,
And scars of dread tattoo our hearts
Knowing your person is now just a shell, homeless and cold.

Gentle life, a fragile wonder of the universe,
So hard to hold, yet unable to be ignored.
Breath can be just as painful as death.
Love. Love is what makes smiles on our face and tears stream down.
Love makes the cold something to look forward to, but without you ...
Life must go on in loving memory of you.

     - Kristin Kim Haynes

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

The Otherside Cafe Restaurant Review

The Otherside Cafe
My Opinions: This place hasn’t changed much since I started coming here during high school … except they now accept credit cards – don't let the "hipster" decor fool you, the food is delicious and vegan-friendly – very casual, seat-yourself environment of the younger crowd with service to match – They have a bar with some interesting atypical beers available

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Otherside Nachos – Turkey Club Melted Minis – Brie Cheese Sandwich – Buffalo Mozz Salad – Pressed Proscuitto Sandwich – Chocolate Mousse

Most Recent Visit: 2/01/2010
Amount Visited: 30+
Experiences: Lunch, Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 407 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02115
Website: http://www.theothersidecafe.com  Phone: (617) 536-8437
Social Networking:  MySpace /othersidecafeboston

Monday, February 1, 2010

Flat Top Johnny's Restaurant & Bar Review

Flat Top Johnny's
My Opinions:  I went back to this place for the dart boards! They are one of the few remaining places that I know of that still have dart boards - Fun billiards bar that offers pitchers of beer and tables outside in the warmer season - Food is okay ... I would recommend going thirsty, not hungry.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Buffalo Tenders - Greek Plate - Sliders

Most Recent Visit:1/30/2010
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences: Bar

Patronage Inclination: Fleeting

Address: 1A Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA 02141
Website: www.flattopjohnnys.com  Phone: (617) 494-9565
Social Networking:  Facebook /Flat Top Johnny's

National Food Holidays (February)

FEBRUARY 
NATIONAL FOOD HOLIDAYS
Here are some national food holidays that you can celebrate which ever way you see fit. Pick you favorites and put them on your calendar to enjoy! If you are truly passionate about a food that doesn't yet have its day, our President has the authority to grant them, so get a petition introduced by a constituent, trade association or public relations firms and keep your utensils ready.
  • February 1: National Baked Alaska Day
  • February 3: National Carrot Cake Day
  • February 4: National Stuffed Mushroom Day
  • February 5: National Chocolate Fondue Day (FAVORITE!)
  • February 7: National Fettuccine Alfredo Day
  • February 9: National Bagels and Lox Day
  • February 12: National Plum Pudding Day
  • February 13: National Tortellini Day
  • February 14: National Creme-Filled Chocolates Day
  • February 15: National Gumdrop Day
  • February 16: National Almond Day
  • February 17: National Indian Pudding Day
  • February 19: National Chocolate Mint Day
  • February 20: National Cherry Pie Day
  • February 21: National Sticky Bun Day
  • February 22: National Margarita Day
  • February 23: National Banana Bread Day
  • February 24: National Tortilla Chip Day
  • February 25: National Clam Chowder Day
  • February 25: National Chocolate-Covered Nuts Day
  • February 26: National Pistachio Day
  • February 27: National Strawberry Day
  • February 27: National Kahlua Day
  • February 28: National Chocolate Soufflé Day

Kingfish Hall Restaurant Review

Kingfish Hall
My Opinions: It's a bit out of my way, in Faneuil Hall Marketplace, so I haven't been in a while, but may go back sooner than later now that I'm blogging about it - Dine upstairs ... better view, space and seating - The service is fairly good - Food has been consistently good - Decor is funky - Good for dates and groups
Some Food/Drink Tasted: Grand Shellfish Platter – Lobster Curry Bisque – Wood-Grilled Swordfish – Snapper – Wood-Grilled Sirloin

Most Recent Visit:
Amount Visited: 20+
Experiences: Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 188 South Market Building, Boston, MA 02109
Website: http://www.toddenglish.com  Phone: (617) 523-8862
Social Networking: Twitter @ChefToddEnglish - Facebook /Todd English's Kingfish Hall

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar Review

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar
My Opinions: Even though I frequent the Capital Grille, and there is one within walking distance of this LoDo location, I like switching it up a bit ... and, honestly, it's not a huge stretch from what I have come to expect from the Capital Grille - The food, especially their cuts of meet, are high quality and well seasoned - the service is attentive and proper - Interior is what you expect from an upscale steakhoues –  Side Sampler ... Whenever offered on a menu, I always recommend trying it, and this one doesn't disappoint
Some Food/Drink Tasted: Santa Fe Chicken Dip – Lettuce Wedge – New York Classic – Sirloin Oscar – Trio Sampler

Most Recent Visit:
Amount Visited: 2
Experiences: Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 1890 Wynkoop Street, Denver, Colorado, 80202
Website: http://www.kegsteakhouse.com  Phone: (303) 296-0023
Social Networking: