Vinue Bar Review

VINUE

Desirability: 6 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions:  Vinue opened in the late summer of 2011, right around when I moved to Denver ... coincidence? I think not! I am thrilled that this wine bar is here in Cherry Creek. It is just what this neighborhood needs to stay classy-chic and modern. You can pick from almost 70 types of wines and champagnes, in 3 different pour sizes, from a lot of impressive wine dispensing machines. And, yes, they do offer a full bar complete with specialty cocktails. They also offer food from charcuterie platters, to tapas, and even dessert!

It's always fun to introduce people to this venue, especially wine lovers, because they are like a kid in a candy store. I came here for a casual business meeting tonight, and the cushy lounge atmosphere relaxed everyone and encouraged great conversation.

The owners are fantastic - I can't wait to host an event here!

Most Recent Visit:  2/08/2012
Amount Visited:  10+
Experiences:  Lounge, Bar

Address: 2817 E. 3rd Avenue, Denver, CO 80206
Website:  denverwinebar.net  Phone: (720) 287-1156
Social Networking: Facebook /Vinue Food & Wine Bar
- Twitter @VinueWineBar

Panzano Restaurant Review

PANZANO

Desirability:  5.5 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions:   I had another great dinner here. I was glad to see that it was busy, even in the earlier part of the evening on a Monday. The crowd here is as eclectic as the food, which makes the vibe comfortable and energetic.

I should mention that it is a bit expensive to dine here, but it's worth it. There are a lot of positive points about Panzano: they use local and organic ingredients as much as possible - their extensive gluten-free options taste great - they have a fantastic wine list - the service is formal and attentive - atmosphere is inviting and great for friends, business meetings and dates - they are conveniently located next to a parking lot - oh, and I've enjoyed almost everything I've eaten here. To be fair, one suggestion I have is to ease up on the use of olives.

I still haven't had time to try their daily happy hour between 2:30-6pm in their lounge, but I will!

To Note: They have event space downstairs, but the 'wine room' is a bit contrived, the chairs and linen are outdated, and the ceilings are low. A thorough revamp should do the trick.

     Try:  Pappardelle alla Bolognese

     Skip:  Pancetta Avvolta Radicchio

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Crespelle ai Funghi - Anatra Mousse - Pancetta Avvolta Radicchio - Zuppa di Giorno - Jewel Lattuga - Caesar - Pesce Fresco - Costole Breve - Pappardelle alla Bolognese - Carbonara a la Panzano - Patate Dolci - Risotto - Sweet Potato Mash - Tiramisu

Most Recent Visit:  2/06/2012
Amount Visited:  5+
Experiences:  Dinner

Address:  909 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202
Website:  panzano-denver.com  Phone: (303) 296-3525
Social Networking:  Facebook /Panzano

Previous Posts:  December 2011

Golden Saigon Restaurant Review

GOLDEN SAIGON

Desirability: 6 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions:  This is the best Vietnamese restaurant I have ever been to. The food is delicious!

This restaurant is tucked away in an unassuming location, so it's like a hidden gem even though they've won Aurora's Best of the Best 2010 Award. I was thrilled to find it on a hunt for a lunch spot ... now I eat here at least once a week. The seating in the restaurant is comfortable, you can order sake, beer and wine here, and the people who work at Golden Saigon are kind and efficient. 

Other reasons why I like this restaurant, is because they only use fresh ingredients, which you can notice in the quality of the dishes, they are generous with their portions, and have reasonable prices (especially for their lunch specials). Don't forget to request a 'spicy' addition to any dish for heat-seekers. 

If I could give them a suggestion: Offer a delivery service

     Try:  Curry Chicken (spicy) - Chicken with Vegetable

     Skip:  n/a

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Shrimp with Vegetable - Chicken with Vegetable - Mongolian Beef - Curry Chicken - Sesame Chicken - Hot and Sour Soup - Crab Cheese Wonton - Fried Dumpling - Egg Flower Soup - Egg Rolls

Most Recent Visit: 12/19/2011
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences  Lunch

Address: 2648 S. Parker Road, Unit 2, Aurora, CO 80014
Website:  GoldenSaigon.com  Phone: (303) 671-7100
Social Networking: Facebook /Golden Saigon Restaurant

NoRTH Restaurant & Bar Review

NoRTH

Desirability:  4.5 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions:  Tonight, I stopped by for drink and snack at the bar. There was a decent crowd tonight, though I've seen better on a Thursday. This is one of the more pricey Cherry Creek neighborhood gems. The atmosphere and food here is their strength. The atmosphere is chic and spacious, and their food is very tasty. Their service could use some work on being attentive and polite, and I'd still like to see them do an overhaul on their wine list (especially by the glass), but I would still come here for a bite or take-out.

To note: They have a Happy Hour menu during the week (only until 6pm), and the outside tables are a nice option that I want to try once it gets warmer.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Roasted Mushrooms, Cipollini Onions, Rosemary Pizza - Heirloom Beets, Arugula, Apple, Hazelnuts, Lemon Crème Fraiche Salad - Caprese, Mozzarella Burrata, Tomato, Arugula Pesto Salad - Tagliatelle - Short Rib “Osso Buco” - Sea Bass - Chicken Parmesan - Nutella Desert

Most Recent Visit:  12/17/2011
Amount Visited:  5+
Experiences:  Bar, Dinner

Address: 190 Clayton Lane, Denver, CO 80206-5675 (multiple locations)
Website: foxrc.com/north.html  Phone: (720) 941-7700
Social Networking: Facebook /Fox Restaurant Concepts  -  Twitter @debbieporterfrc

Previous Posts:  March 2010

Panzano Restaurant Review

PANZANO

Desirability:  5.5 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions:   This is one of my favorite restaurants to dine at in Denver. There are a lot of positive points about Panzano: they use local and organic ingredients as much as possible - their extensive gluten-free options taste great - they have a fantastic wine list - the service is formal and attentive - atmosphere is inviting and great for friends, business meetings and dates - they are conveniently located next to a parking lot - oh, and I've enjoyed almost everything I've eaten here. To be fair, one suggestion I have is to ease up on the use of olives.

I'm looking forward to trying their happy hour offered 7 days a week, 2:30-6pm in their lounge (after all, they were voted Best Happy Hour Deal in 2010). 

To Note: They have event space downstairs, but the 'wine room' is a bit contrived, the chairs and linen are outdated, and the ceilings are low. A thorough revamp should do the trick.

     Try:  Pappardelle alla Bolognese

     Skip:  Pancetta Avvolta Radicchio

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Crespelle ai Funghi - Anatra Mousse - Pancetta Avvolta Radicchio - Zuppa di Giorno - Jewel Lattuga - Caesar - Pappardelle alla Bolognese - Carbonara a la Panzano - Patate Dolci - Risotto - Tiramisu

Most Recent Visit:  12/09/2011
Amount Visited:  3
Experiences:  Dinner

Address:  909 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202
Website:  panzano-denver.com  Phone: (303) 296-3525
Social Networking:  Facebook /Panzano

Churchill Bar Review

CHURCHILL BAR @ THE BROWN PALACE

Desirability: 6 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions: This is my favorite cigar bar in Denver (though I am eager to try Del Frisco's in Greenwood Village). I don't typically like mixing smoke and food, but they keep this place well ventilated, so it's acceptable for a bite when it's not too crowded. They use the Ship Tavern's Menu which offers decent food with classic American menu options.

I don't come here for the food though; I come here for the service, full bar, and very good cigar menu (they even sell a small selection of cigarettes). Yes, the cigars and wines are a bit over-priced, but the ambiance and staff are worth it. They work hard to make you feel welcomed,and unhurried. The cushy seats and plush couches are nice touches - plus, they have all the smoking accouterments you'd want to enjoy your smokey pleasure.

Additional Note: You can access free wireless internet here. On occasion, I'll even come here to do work or host a business meeting - it's always a hit!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Calamari - Tavern Club - Quesadillas - Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Most Recent Visit:  11/11/2011
Amount Visited:  25+
Experiences:  Bar

Address: 321 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202
Website:  brownpalace.com  Phone: (303) 297-3111
Social Networking: Facebook /The Brown Palace  -  Twitter @BrownPalace

Hodsons Bar & Grill Review

HODSONS BAR & GRILL

Desirability: 5 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions:  This is a standout restaurant in the Streets at SouthGlenn that boasts great food, friendly and attentive staff, and a sleek interior. It doesn't hurt that there is a ton of parking just across the street, a huge movie theater for entertainment, and a daily happy hour from 3-6pm and from 9pm to close.

They opened up their doors tonight to help benefit the wonderful non-profit I am the Chair of Board for, Learning Ally (formerly RFB&D). For all tables that dined here on behalf of Learning Ally, Hodsons pledged to generously donate 25% of the proceeds to our organization. The owners even dined here tonight to show their personal support (what a classy touch!).

This restaurant will definitely be a go-to for me.

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Spinach & Artichoke Dip - Calamari - Rotisserie Chicken Salad - Portabella Napoleon - Penne Hodson - The Hodson (Buffalo) Burger - Lobster & Bacon Macaroni & Cheese - Sweet Potato Fries - Warm Oatmeal Cookie Bar - Pressed Chocolate Cake 

Most Recent Visit: 11/07/2011
Amount Visited:  5+
Experiences:  Dinner

Address:  6851 S. Gaylord Street, Centennial, CO 80122
Website:  hodsonsbarandgrill.com  Phone: (720) 457-3852
Social Networking:  Facebook /Hodson's Bar and Grill  - Twitter @HodsonsBarGrill

Washington Park Grille Bar & Restaurant Review

WASHINGTON PARK GRILLE

Desirability: 2 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions: Last time I was here, I had a bad dining experience. I was finally encouraged to give this place another try, and thankfully I had a much better experience. The food was still not great, but it didn't turn me off! I sat in the lounge section (to the left of the bar, pictured above), and it was quite nice. The seating was comfortable and the atmosphere was cozy. The staff was friendly and approachable, per usual. 

The prices here are expensive for what you get, but I do like their spirits selection, and discovered that they are slightly better priced (I had the Oban) than their wine list.

Happy Hour Deals: They have great specials like half off premium wines on Wednesdays, $3 Thursday Ladies Nights drinks, and more!

     Try:  n/a

     Skip:  Brie & Artichoke Dip

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Crispy Calamari - Lump Crab Cakes - Sliders - Bruschetta Sampler - Baked Brie, Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Most Recent Visit:  11/02/2011
Amount Visited:  2
Experiences:  Bar, Dinner

Address: 1096 South Gaylord Street, Denver, CO 80209
Website:  washparkgrille.com  Phone: (303) 777-0707
Social Networking: Facebook /Washington Park Grille  -  Twitter @WashParkGrille

Previous Posts:  August 2011

Capital Grille Restaurant Review

 

CAPITAL GRILLE, DENVER

Desirability: 6 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions:  I've been to this Larimer Sq. location a few times, and this evening was one of my best dinning experiences. The dinner special I had was delicious and the staff was extremely accommodating and attentive.

This chain restaurant has been able to maintain a high-end boutique steak house feel in every location I've dined at. I've been impressed at the chain's consistent and reliable fresh quality food, excellent service, and impressive wine list. If you like you waiter, remember to get his/her name as you can request them for future seatings.

Also, a nice insider tip: if you want something offered at a different Capital Grille (like caviar or particular bottle of champagne), you can call ahead of time and they will ship it to your restaurant’s location.

     Try:  Dry Aged Steak Au Poivre - Lobster Mac N Cheese - Seasonal Mushroom Medly
     Skip:  Creamed Spinach

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: 10/27/2011
Amount Visited: 100+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 1450 Larimer Street Denver, CO 80202 (multiple locations)
Website: thecapitalgrille.com  Phone: (303) 539-2500
Social Networking:  Facebook /The Capital Grille  -  Twitter @capgrillelsq

Previous Posts:  January 2010

Chinook Tavern Restaurant Review

CHINOOK TAVERN

Desirability: 3 of 6 acclamations

My Opinions: I was first impressed with the spacious bar/lounge, restaurant and additional private room. The super high ceilings, the airy feel, uplifting light wood tones, and interesting lighting. Once seated, I went from feeling intrigued to feeling a bit exposed and lonely - there was no one in the restaurant!

I ordered and waited, and waited ... and waited for some dinner rolls. Then, I waited, and waited ,and waited for my salad. Then, it's repeat the same for my entree, coffee and dessert. I like a relaxing meal, but I didn't plan on it lasting 3 hours. The food was good, but skip the dessert (a bit dry) and coffee (a bit weak).

The bar section is quite attractive (pictured above), so it'd be great for an after-work happy hour drink. Also, the space is accommodating for a large private cocktail function - just make sure the contract ensures it's staffed appropriately.

Most Recent Visit: 10/23/2011
Amount Visited: 1
Experiences:  Dinner

Address: 6380 South Fiddlers Green Circle, Greenwood Village, CO 80111 (multiple locations)
Website: chinookdenver.com  Phone: ‎(720) 266-6000
Social Networking: Twitter @ChinookTavern  -  Facebook /Chinook Tavern

Corridor 44 Bar Review

CORRIDOR 44

My Opinions: We all know that I love the bubblies ... especially in the Rose family. Tonight, I  quenched my thirst with their flight of 3 sparkling roses - the presentation was enticing ... my drinks set on a wrought iron spiral flute holder, and the pours all complimented each other.

This place was packed, yet the bar service was still attentive and friendly - nice work! The crowd was an "interesting" mix of 70% classy, 25% tawdry, and 5% sloshed, but it wouldn't be a good Friday night without some amusement, right?! Also, the prices are quite fair, especially for their bottles, so I will be back to try some more flights, some more bottles, and maybe even something from their food menu.

Most Recent Visit: 10/21/2011
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences: Bar

Desirability: 5 of 6 acclamations

Address: 1433 Larimer Square, Denver, CO 80202
Website: corridor44.com  Phone: (303) 893-0044‎
Social Networking: Twitter @Corridor44  -  Facebook /Corridor 44

Previous Posts:  November 2009

Washington Park Grille Bar & Restaurant Review

WASHINGTON PARK GRILLE

My Opinions: Though this places looks more upscale, I'd opt for the brother restaurant, Wash Park Tavern. The Wash Park Grille's bar section was surprisingly dingy/dive-like, but offered a good selection of libations, so I'd come back for a drink. 

Upon getting seated outside, I had the chance to try some starters, and decided not to try anything more because the food was a turn off ... especially the baked brie, spinach and artichoke dip. The ingredients did not seem fresh, the flavors tasted off, and the dishes were not well prepared. On the upside, the staff is friendly and approachable. 

The prices here are expensive, especially for what you get (including the wines by the glass and bottle list). I have heard this place is decent, so perhaps I just caught the chef on a bad night. We shall see!

Desirability: 2 of 6 acclamations

     Try:  n/a

     Skip:  Brie & Artichoke Dip

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Sliders - Bruschetta Sampler - Baked Brie, Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Most Recent Visit:  8/10/2011
Amount Visited:  1
Experiences:  Bar, Dinner

Address: 1096 South Gaylord Street, Denver, CO 80209
Website:  washparkgrille.com  Phone: (303) 777-0707
Social Networking: Facebook /Washington Park Grille  -  Twitter @WashParkGrille

W Lounge Review

W LOUNGE @ W HOTEL BOSTON 

My Opinions:  The bar scene is quite fun (even after all these months) and boasts an interesting mix of well-dressed local professionals, travelers, and socialites.

The drinks are decent with a stocked bar of all the higher-end bottles, and the service is great if you sit at the bar, but expect to wait if you're at one of the lounge tables or couches. The food is tasty, and it's nice that you can order Market's restaurant menu in addition to the bar bites.

To note: the valet pricing has become more reasonable! Make sure you get your ticket validated if you eat here for a reduced price.

Desirability: 5 of 6 acclamations

     Try:  Salmon Sashimi - Scallop Sashimi
     Skip:  Desert

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Shrimp Salad - Salmon Sashimi - Scallop Sashimi - Lobster Pizza - Cheddar Fritters - Truffle Fontina Pizza – Mozzarella Pizza - Rice Tuna - Cookies and Confections – MARKET Cheeseburger – Warm Chocolate Cake

Most Recent Visit: 6/11/2011
Amount Visited: 50+
Experiences: Bar

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

Older Posts:  April 2010  -  February 2010  -  January 2010

Outside Dining Picks in Boston (2011)

Now that the warm weather is here and it's staying lighter out later, all people want to do is shed clothing layers, people watch and dine outside. Open windows/doors are great, but here, I'm only talking about my favorite outside dining spots that have it all - delicious food, beautiful views, attentive service, and me!

Eastern Standard  :  528 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 02215 (617) 532-9100 (easternstandardboston.com)
     Because: It's opened year round, has lots of tables, hosts fun social events, and attracts a classy professional crowd.

Ristorante Fiore's Roof Deck  :  250 Hanover St., Boston, 02113 (617) 371-1176 (ristorantefiore.com)
     Because:  The best roof deck spot in the North End that has a bit of everything - outside dining tables, bar high-tops, a dedicated bar, and an assortment of naturally infused spirits.

Gaslight Brasserie du Coin  :  560 Harrison Ave., Boston, 02118 (617) 422-0224 (gaslight560.com)
     Because:  For lunch or an after-work drink this is a popular South-End spot. The free parking and occasional social events are an added bonus.

Hamersley's Bistro  :  553 Tremont St., Boston, 02116 (617) 423-2700 (hamersleysbistro.com)
     Because:  You'll feel like your in a Parisian Bistro. They usually have happy hour events, they do a great job with the layout (adorned with lights and greenery), and the service is still as good as it is inside.

Rowes Wharf Sea Grille at the Boston Harbor Hotel  :  70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, 02110 (617) 856-7744 (roweswharfseagrille.com)
     Because: Blues Barge is one of the biggest things I look forward to in the summer that provides fabulous entertainment and cultivates a very fun crowd.

Sam's at Louis  :  60 Northern Ave., Boston, 02110 (617) 295-0191 (samsatlouis.com)
     Because: The beachy-feel with a view of Rowes Wharf is wonderful ... especially at sunset!

Stephanie's on Newbury  :  190 Newbury St., Boston, 02116 (617) 236-0990 (stephaniesonnewbury.com)
     Because:  It's a classic spot with the best people-watching perches around.

The Yard at the Liberty Hotel  :  215 Charles St., Boston, 02114 (617) 224-4000 (libertyhotel.com)
     Because:  This is the place to mix, mingle and shine. It's one of the few places Bostonians still get dressed up to go to and I love that! The chic lounge furniture is a nice add-on too.

Radius Bar & Restaurant Review

RADIUS

Notables:
* Formal	* Excellent Service	* Excellent Food & Wine
* Pricey	* Valet	* After-Work Hot Spot

My Opinions: This is one of my choice bars to enjoy an after work drink at! During the week, from 5-7pm, you'd think it was Saturday night - the places fills as quickly as it empties though, so plan to get there around 5 for optimal mingling.

I was able to snag a lounge table and enjoy some great dishes ... the burger is amazing (with multiple food awards to backup my opinion), but the oysters on the half shell and cheeses were not my favorite. I was pleased that the service in the lounge was just as good as in their dining room. And, I enjoyed their mixed drinks tonight (strong & fresh ingredients) just as much as I enjoy their impressive wine/bubblies list.

Radius remains to be a Boston-Classic in the Financial District, and one of my favorite restaurants around. The service is impeccable complimented by excellent food quality and elegant flavors. An added plus is the sexy rotund room layout, simple/clean decor, and private room option downstairs.

I'm a big fan of Via Matta and Altastrada (MGM Grand location) as well, members of Michael Schlow's restaurants, so try them all!

Desirability: 6 of 6 acclamations

     Try:  Burger - Seared Cod

     Skip:  Cheese Plate - Rice Pudding

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Radius Burger - Tuna Sashimi - Cheese Plate - Steak Tartare - Buffalo Mozzarella Salad - Pan Seared Cod - Lamb Ravioli - Maine Crab Salad – Sweetbreads – Foie Gras – Chilled Maine Lobster – Bass – Organic Chicken – Rib Eye - Loin of Lamb - Boston Creme Donuts - Cookie Plate - Sorbets - Chocolate Cake - Oysters on the Half Shell

Most Recent Visit: 5/12/2011
Amount Visited: 80+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 8 High Street, Boston, MA 02110
Website: www.radiusrestaurant.com/  Phone: (617) 426-1234
Social Networking:  Facebook /Radius Restaurant Group  -  Twitter @RadiusBoston

Older Radius Posts:  March 2011  -  July 2010  -  March 2010  -  November 2009

Mellow Mushroom Bar & Restaurant Review

MELLOW MUSHROOM - CENTENNIAL 

Notables:

Casual	Trivia Nights	Good Bartenders
Moderately Priced		Gluten Free Options

My Opinions:  So glad we gave this place another try ... but we will only sit at the bar from now on (I'm still cringing from my first, and last, dinner in the dining room). As always, the bartenders were friendly, efficient and fun. The food came out hot and tasted delicious. I really enjoyed the regular pizza and my family enjoyed the gluten free option. Though gluten free dough is healthier for you, but I had to try the regular crust. I'm glad I did because  it was fluffy and flavorful.

To Note: This restaurant hosts trivia nights often, which is fun, but be warned that the room gets loud.

     Try:  Spinach Artichoke Dip - Spinach Salad

     Skip:  Field Green - Steak & Cheese Hoagie

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Spinach Artichoke Dip - Caesar Salad - Field Green Salad - Spinach Salad - Gluten-Free Pizza - Pepperoni Pizza - Meatball Hoagie - Steak & Cheese Hoagie

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 5/11/2011
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences:  Bar, Dinner

Address: 2154 East Commons Avenue, Centennial, CO 80122 (multiple locations)
Website: mellowmushroom.com/centennial  Phone: (720) 353-4300
Social Networking:  Facebook /Mellow Mushroom - Centennial  -  Twitter @MMCentennial

Previous Posts:  April 2011

Black Horse Tavern Restaurant & Bar Review

BLACK HORSE TAVERN

My Opinions:  What a pleasant surprise to find this new restaurant in Winchester (my hometown) conveniently located by the commuter rail stop. It opened in August of 2010, and seems to be thriving! I couldn't believe how busy it was today ... and it was only lunch time. 

I had a great experience at the bar chatting with the owner, enjoying a good meal with a glass of cabernet, and loving the comfortable ambiance. (I loved that they had golf playing on the big screen!) I only wish I discovered this town hot spot earlier this winter so I could sit by their gas fireplace ... I guess the large opened windows letting in the warm spring air was a decent consolation prize for me.

You will find generous food portions of refined tavern fare at average prices, a good wine and beer selection (along with a full bar), friendly people, and lots of parking. To note: Lunch is not served every day, I believe it's only available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, so give them a call before you plan an afternoon meet-up here.

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Chicken Picatta

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit:  5/06/2011
Amount Visited:  1
Experiences:  Lunch

Address: 32 Waterfield Road, Winchester, MA 01890
Website: blackhorsetavernwinchester.com  Phone: (781) 369-1620
Social Networking:  Facebook /Black Horse Tavern Winchester  -  Twitter @BHTavern

Broad Street Bistro Review (Formerly Caliterra)

BROAD STREET BISTRO @ the Hilton

My Opinions: CH-CH-CH-Changes. Oh to list the changes they have made would be to highlight the things that have made me fall out of love with this place.

To be fair, it's not all bad, but here's what I will miss most:

1. Wine Glasses: They have substituted their tall, delicately clinking, swirling-friendly stemware with tiny chintzy glasses (one size fits all) that have an obvious marker to guage the size of the pour.
2. Wine list: I guess to compliment the cheaper glasses, they had to get cheaper wines ... no more Louis Martini Cabernet for me.
3. Menu: How I will miss the delicious herloom tomato salad and spinach tortellini the most. 
4. Bottled Water: I always looked forward to being refreshed by a large bottle of Pelligrino - now I dread a glass of water carbonated by a machine that pumps in bubbles bigger than marbles.
5. Salt & Pepper: I liked the grinders, and sea salt is all the rage now because its healthier and tastes better, but those are gone and you're stuck with small plain shakers.
6. Napkins: Watch out for the lint ... the white cloth got all over my black pants ... and stuck on my lips (gross).
7. Breakfast: Say goodbye to the nice buffet spread they hosted every morning.
8. Portion Size: It went from satisfactorally-filling to guess-I'm-being-forced-to-diet.

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Breakfast Buffet - Sliders - Cheese Fries - Spinach Tortellini Pasta - Chicken lettuce Wraps – Mediterranean Pizza - Wild Mushroom Pizza – Pepperoni Pizza – Heirloom Tomato Salad – Filet Mignon Sandwich – Penne with Shrimp - Chicken Panini – Turkey Panini - Cookies & Ice Cream - Tiramisu - Strawberry Shortcake

Patronage Inclination:  Fleeting

Most Recent Visit:  5/03/2011
Amount Visited: 75+
Experiences:  Breakfast, Dinner, Bar

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

Older Caliterra Posts:  February 2011  -  January 2011  -  December 2010  -  August 2010  -  June 2010  -  March 2010  -  February 2010  -  September 2009

Kupel's Bakery Review

KUPEL'S BAKERY

My Opinions: When on the hunt for some Kosher food, this place is IT. Though small and unassuming, and ignoring that I was relentlessly hit on by the employees (my appetite went down a bit), the baked good were delicious!

I did have a bagel, and, yes, they are good - moist and flavorful with a large variety of cream cheese options. The coffee was decent, but you should only go out of your way to come here if you want some traditional baked goods. I am looking forward to my next bagel run!

As a plus: they had some pastry for sale that supported Breast Cancer Awareness Month through Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer!

Some Food/Drink Tasted:  Poppy Seed Homentaschen - Apricot Homentaschen - Raspberry Homentaschen - Cinnamon Bubkie - Chocolate Muffin - Black and White Half-Moon - Everything Bagel w/Plain Cream Cheese - Chocolate Chip Rugallah

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit:  5/03/2011
Amount Visited:  1

Address: 421 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Website kupelsbakery.com  Phone: (617) 566-9528
Social Networking:  Facebook /Kupel's Bakery  -  Twitter @Kupels

Menton Restaurant Review

MENTON 

My Opinions: Before dinner, I really like stopping by Drink bar, below next door - it helps me get my appetite going before the foodfest in Menton begins.

Tonight, the service was perfectly formal (per usual) and the food was delicious. They have added another layer to their pre-fix. Now you can choose from a 3, 4 or 7 course dinner. The 4-course plus cheese plate is the perfect pick for me. And, they have a wonderful wine list complete with a hearty champagne section - I have been very pleased with all the bottles I've tried. I must note that the desserts are getting better, but still an afterthought that I taste but never finish.

I had a tour of the Chef's Table before dinner and thought it was "okay". To have a seating here, you need to meet a customary food/beverage minimum, but it doesn't seem like there's much room to customize your dinner menu, which is disappointing. I had all unique dishes prepared for my dinner party at Asana's Chef's Table, an element that made it truly special. You will get a decent view of the action going on in the kitchen, but there's a lot of space to the right that you don't have a clear view of from the table. I found the room a little bland, and I didn't like the long rectangular layout for conversational/mingling reasons. Also, I was surprised that the chairs lining half of the long table were not as nice as the ones out in the main dining room (they didn't even have seat cushions). Hmmm, I'm not going to go out of my way to book this room, but I certainly wouldn't complain if I ended up here either.

     Try:  Kataifi Wrapped Langoustines - Cheese Plate
     Skip:  n/a

Most Recent Visit: 5/01/2011
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences: Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Address: 354 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210
Website: mentonboston.com  Phone: (617) 737-0099
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Older Posts:  February 2011  -  November 2010  -  April 2010