Adventures In Eating & Drinking

El Paragua - On the Trail of Comida Real - Espaniola, NM

2010-07-03T16:12:00.000-07:00

Unbeatable Vietnamese Food in Boulder, CO

2010-06-25T10:15:00.000-07:00

Vietnamese food is always a nice break from Chinese or Japanese, especially for lunch. My brother, who works in Boulder, mentioned that Chez Thuy would be a great lunch option after my early morning hike in Sanitas Park.

Chez Thuy is located near 28th & Valmont in a newer building. We arrived shortly before noon and it was a good thing because the restaurant was stormed with hungry patrons, soon thereafter. The decor is contemporary, with references to the Happy Buda and of course, air conditioned.

We launched into the appetizers, featuring pork egg rolls with lettuce, bean sprouts and savory dipping sauce. I thought it tasted very nice. We then had the fried soft shelled crab, which was also quite nice. Then for a final tasting, we split an order of the sizzling spicy peanut seafood platter - far from poo poo my friends! This plate had a nice spricy peanut and coconut milk finish to it; the shrimp prawns were also quite tasty!

sombreroeatinganddrinking highly endorses Chez Thuy for lunch or dinner.

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High Country Restaurant & Saloon - Chama NM - An Oasis of Taste in The High Country

2010-06-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

Tucked away in the High Country region of New Mexico is a little town with a great eatery - It's called the High Country Saloon and they have a chef, not just a camp cook. If I'm within a hundred miles of Chama, Sombreroeatinganddrinking stops here. I have eaten here at least 4 times and each experience was equally brilliant.

As you can see, The High Country is well equipped.

For starters, they have a great selection of beer on ice, as well as a refrigerator with back-up selections as well. The HCS is also fully stocked in decent Tequillas, if that strikes your fancy. Moving on, they have great salads and in terms of entrees, I recommend a nicely grilled steak or the seafood pasta, one of their signature dishes. I should mention that these guys have a great old 1880s vintage "architectural" saloon bar, which is where I usually sit and mingle with the local heros.

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High Country Restaurant and Saloon
Intersection of US 84 / 64 and NM 17
Chama, NM 505-756-2384

Galisteo Bistro - Santa Fe NM ... Try the Chipotle Shrimp!

2010-06-18T22:46:00.000-07:00

I've walked past this establishment numerous times and decided it was time to dine at the Galisteo Bistro, located in Santa Fe, NM. There are many great eateries in Santa Fe, so I suggest trying all of them, but you'll want to put Galisteo Bistro on your short list. I had a nice light meal, consisting of the Chipotle Shrimp appetizer and mixed green salad.

The ambiance is nice, featuring an open fire-grilled kitchen and the staff very friendly and timely. Bread and butter (always a great indicator) homemade and tasty.

Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Tucson, AZ --- WOW!

2010-06-15T09:40:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, located just north and east of Tucson, AZ. A friend of mine mentioned how exceptional this property was, so I had to see it for myself. Immediately, one is impressed by the Resort's almost seamless integration into the landscape; did Frank Lloyd Wright design this phenominal sanctuary? As you peruse the photos below, imagine immersing yourself into the tranquil Tucson desert, golfing on those glorious greens, or sunning yourself by the aquamarine pool.

The abundant 360 degree views here will astound you!

Your pilgrimage to The 80 foot waterfall is an LVR requirement!

This is an exemplary view of one of many trails that encircle the Ventana property.

You can see how the LVR is so well integrated into its natural surroundings.

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Loews Ventana Canyon
7000 North Resort Drive
Tucson, AZ 85750
520-299-2020
800-234-5117

Fine Dining In Silver City - Diane's

2010-06-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

We're still covering Silver City NM eateries. I was forced to eat at Diane's under duress, due to the fact there were no other restaurants open at the time. However, Diane's looked nice and smelled great upon entering this fine establishment. I ended up having the Tomato Bisque and caper sauced Chicken breast. Both items were outstanding and my guess is that most, if not all items were worth sampling. Again, Silver City is not as well known as Taos and Santa Fe, but Silver City is a fun little town, has art galleries and great places to eat.

Diane's Restaurant and Bakery

We are located at 510 N. Bullard, Silver City, NM 88061
575-538-8722

LUNCH
Tuesday through Sunday: 11a.m. to 2 p.m.

BRUNCH
Saturday & Sunday: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

DINNER
Tuesday through Saturday: 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Nancy's Silver Cafe - Silver City, NM

2010-06-11T23:19:00.000-07:00

Silver City, NM is not necessarily a household name, but it is an interesting artsy little Town. I usually pass through there about once every year or so, but, when I do, I like to take my breakfast at Nancy's. They have a great green chili sauce (red as well, if that's your preference) complimenting any egg dish, especially the huevos rancheros.

Nancy's Silver Cafe

Cappucino or Any Sort of Caffeine in Taos?

2010-06-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

World Cup Cafe 102 Cam Del Paseo Pueblo Norte, Taos, NM 87571-6096 (575) 737-5299‎

"Require only strong coffee and no froufrou atmosphere at breakfast?" - nytimes.com ... "I got a few bumper stickers saying "Do you know where you food comes from?" - tripadvisor.com ... "Very good friendly service and ambience, don't miss it" -

If your like any normal human being, you crave some sort of caffeine in the am, right? Well, if you're in Taos, NM, check out the World Cup Cafe.

One of My Relatives...The SteakSmith, Santa Fe, NM

2010-06-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, I went to Santa Fe, NM and asked some locals where I might find a decent eatery. More than one person suggested The SteakSmith, so, inevitably, I ventured over there. The restaurant is out of town (take Rodeo Rd. from Cerillos, which is the most direct).

All beef dishes are awesome, most notably the NY Strip Peppercorn. Also, one should not leave the SteakSmith premises without trying their world famous Shrimp appetizer.

Lunch is served Monday thru Friday from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Dinner services is 7 days a week. Lounge opens at 4:00 p.m. for light meals & appetizers. Dinner served from 5:00-9:30 p.m. •

Why has the Steaksmith been Santa Fe’s favorite for steak and seafood for 30 years? Simply put, it is the premier restaurant for value, consistency, friendly service and is known as a well-run establishment. Steaksmith lounge and restaurant, open for lunch Monday thru Friday 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, and open for dinner 7 day a week from 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Steaksmith serves choice aged beef, the highest quality seafood, the tastiest ribs, and a limited but adventurous range of other delicious items to meet most everyone’s needs. Everything is homemade. It is a truly wonderful place to dine. Steaksmith’s lounge is renowned for an extensive appetizer and light meal menu. Both lounge and dining rooms are family friendly, yet Steaksmith maintains its status as a special occasion, fine dining restaurant. We offer a team approach to service that has been famous throughout the city since 1973. Everyone is treated in high style from start to finish. Please come and enjoy the best Santa Fe has to offer.

Steaksmith’s lounge and bar offer a more casual dining experience and less expensive fare. Choices include light meals and appetizers, entree style salads, soups and daily specials. Our friendly and attentive lounge staff will serve you anything from fresh lime juice margaritas to a full meal of baby back pork ribs, grilled shrimp and Cobb salad. Perfect for meeting friends for drinks and appetizers or dining out with the whole family. Come join us soon.

Site Created by EDWARD E. BUCKLEY

Pinconning, MI : Third Street Deli - Do Not Pass Go, Without Stopping Here!

2010-05-29T15:25:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon! If you're traveling the eastern highways and byways of Good Ol' Lower Michigan, do make an attempt at passing by the Third Street Station Deli, located on M-13, in Pinconning, MI. I have pasted their menu here. They have excellent sandwiches and Bar-B-Q after 4pm Fridays.

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Third Street Station
305 South Mable (M-13)
Pinconning, MI 48650
989-879-1236 & fax 989-879-1238

http://3rdstreetstation.com/files/3rd_st_deli.pdf

The Northwoods Steakhouse - A Must Do Restaurant in East Tawas, MI!

2010-05-29T15:11:00.000-07:00

1222 East U.S. 23
East Tawas, Michigan 48730
(989) 362-5321

Northeast Michigan's Finest Dining

The Northwoods Steakhouse Maps and Directions

The Northwoods Steakhouse is located next to the Tawas Bay Big Boy Restaurant at the intersection of U.S. 23 and Tawas Beach Road in East Tawas, Michigan.

Approaching from the South: From Standish, Michigan, take U.S. 23 north approximately 37 miles. The Northwoods Steakhouse is on your right, 1.8 miles from the intersection of M-55 and U.S. 23 in Tawas City.

Approaching from the West: take M-55 East to the end at U.S. 23, then East (left) on U.S. 23 1.8 miles to the Northwoods Steakhouse on your right.

Approaching from the North: take U.S. 23 South to the City Limits of East Tawas then continue approximately ¾ of a mile to the Northwoods Steakhouse on your left.

Approaching from the East: come around Tawas Point and park your boat at the East Tawas State Dock. Proceed along the bike path/sidewalk on U.S. 23 at a bearing of 77.4° for 8/10ths of a mile to Latitude 44° 16' 55.22" North, Longitude 88° 28' 31.87" West.

Hours of Operation
Friday and Saturday: 4:30pm-11:00pm
Wednesday and Thursday: 4:30pm-10:00pm
Sunday: 3:00pm-9:00pm
Closed Monday and Tuesday

Winter Schedule: Open Thursday 4:30-9:00pm, Friday and Saturday 4:30-10pm

More Great Mexican Food - Edwardos, WestCliffe, CO.

2010-05-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

I see that most of my recommendations have covered Mexican restaurants. Well, here's another one...."Edwardo's" in WestCliffe, Colorado. I would allow 2.5 hrs from Denver. Take I-25 to Colorado Springs, then follow the signs to Florence then CO HWY 67 to Wetmore, then WestCliffe. From Florence, WestCliffe is about 30-45 minute, depending on how scenic you want to make the drive.

I've only had the chili rellenos there, but they were awesome. If I had to base my appraisal solely on the Relleno plate, I would say 10 thumbs up! Go there and check em out! I usually have a margarita or two to help enjoy the small-town atmosphere.

Interestingly, WestCliffe is on the scenic byway route to Taos NM and the Sangre De Christo Mtns. The scenery here will rock your world, so be prepared for a great journey.

Edwards - 216 Main St, WestCliffe , CO
approx 2.5 hr south of Denver, CO

Another Great Mexican Restaurant - "El Forastero" Canon City, Colorado

2010-04-04T20:18:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks! Been a while since I posted a new eating establishment here. I wanted to mention El Forastero Restaurante of Canon City, Colorado because it deserves mention and I want to see it crowded with people that will eat here again and again, once they discover it. The great thing is that El Forastero offer breakfast all day, especially on those days when you get a late start (wonder why?). I highly recommend the breakfast burrito with sausage and hash browns inside. Every meal is cooked fresh and you will not be disappointed. Jose`and the staff are very friendly and efficient. The restaurant is clean with a feel of Mexico. Of course they have your favorite Mexi Cerveza as well.

El Forastero is centrally located at 401 Main Street, Canon City, Colorado ph: 719-269-3530

Wow! Wow! Wow! Great Mexican Food in North Denver

2009-06-17T19:11:00.000-07:00

I was making my usual work rounds in North Denver, whereupon I spied an interestingly painted Mexican Taqueria; the vibrant yellow-orange paint scheme is very reminiscent of captivating edifices in Mexico. Anyway, this place is in the barrio, so you'll feel safer by day over on Pecos and 38th.

The name of the restaurant is Los Carboncitos. They have a large menu, so I'll have to revisit this page and elaborate on all of the dishes I haven't had yet. Today, being the incipient leap into this fantastic oasis of south-of-the-border cooking, I was amazed at how many dishes they have with camarones, which are shrimp. I had the skewered shrimp, grilled with a spiced butter sauce; Of course the dish came with beans, rice and great corn tortillas.

Everything tasted home made and that suited me just fine. I also appreciated the 4 different salsas on the table, just in case I wanted a dose of liquid fire - there is a salsa for every threshold at Los Carboncitos!

Los Carboncitos Taqueria
3757 Pecos Street
Denver, CO 80211
303-458-0880

Washington Park Grille - "Wash Park Grille" Is what the Locals call it.

2009-06-17T18:49:00.000-07:00

The Wash Park Grille is a great place to hook up with friends, business associates or for a romantic night out on the Park with a date. The WPG is conveniently located in Denver, near the namesake "Washington Park," which is only a few blocks away. Aside from the great food there, one will also be charmed by its European Cafe` society atmosphere and accompanying architectural detail and ambiance; rarely does a restaurant deliver on both levels.

Now, down to business - I like the Wash Park Grille for steak or seafood entrees and don't forget to order their famous Calimari Fritti with a nicely chilled pino gregio or succulent chardonnay. Incidentally, The creme brulee at WPG is a great way to top off your experience at this fine Denver eatery.

The Washington Park Grill is located on the corner of Mississippi & Gaylord Streets...

1096 South Gaylord Street,
Denver, CO 80209
303-777-0707
www.washparkgrille.com

GB Fish 'N Chips ... Wow! Bangers & Mash, Anyone?

2009-06-05T21:56:00.001-07:00

What a great recommendation I received!!! Someone told me about "GB Fish 'N Chips" and I fell for the tip. Went there for lunch with some friends and everybody was pleasantly surprised on the upside! This is no doubt a casual eating and drinking establishment of the true British variety. Since it was my first outing at GB, I tried the cod. Great batter and fried of course, with "chips" aka french fries. GB is very central in Denver, located at the corner of Louisiana and Broadway, just south of I-25 and Broadway exit.

I'm guessing this will be a great place to meet friends for happy hour, given their decent selection of British Ales. Two thumbs up! Go there and enjoy!

GB Fish N Chips
1311 South Broadway
Denver CO., 80210
720-570-5103
www.GBFISHANDCHIPS.COM
11am -9pm Daily

Duke's Steakhouse, Castle Rock, Colorado

2009-05-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

"Well I wanna tell ya pardner," Duke's Steakhouse is a great roadside stop, if you're looking for a place to grab some good grub along the I-25 trail. Duke's is located on the frontage road, just south of the southernmost Castle Rock exit (mile marker 180). Go south on the east frontage road until you see the big Duke's Steakhouse sign.

One of my favorites is the crab leg appetizer. It is reasonably priced and you get a generous quantity. Obviously, the steaks are the #1 attraction here and they are cooked on the grill - charcoal and real flame. If I'm not in the mood for meat, I usually have the grilled chicken Caesar salad. Every appetizer and entree has been great here and this is one of my regular stops, on the way to the Ponderosa. All dishes are reasonably prices and you get a generous sized serving - great flavor and great value at the Duke's!
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Duke's Steakhouse
960 S. Frontage Road
Castle Rock, CO 80104
303-814-2487

Mid Eastern Food is Always a Nice Change

2009-05-06T19:47:00.000-07:00

If you ever get tired of your normal repertoire of restaurants, try some Mid Eastern cuisine at Ali Baba Grill, just north of the City of Golden, CO. You will be pleasantly surprised to find out that these are friendly, hard-working people trying to make an honest living and they cook great food. I usually get the Gyro sandwich, but if you like swarma or other dishes, I'm sure you will be glad that you made a pilgrimage to this west-side Mecca of Mediterranean meals. I actually happened upon this place by mistake, but what a wonderful mistake it was. I am including some photos, which I hope do the lavish Mid Eastern interior some level of justice.

Ali Baba Grill is located in a shopping mall center, just north of the City of Golden, off Highway 93. The exact address is:
109 Ruby Drive, Unit F
Golden, CO 80403
303-279-2228

Who Doesn't Like Pizza & Calzones? How Can You Not?

2009-04-26T19:32:00.000-07:00

Again, I ask you, who doesn't like great pizza or calzones? If you like a more New York pizza (thin crust), Johnny's New York is the place, only you don't have to drive to New York to get it. Drive to Lakewood, Colorado instead. Johnny's is located on Wadsworth Blvd., one block north of Mississippi, on the east side.

If Johnny is there, he will greet you with a nice hello, albeit with a New Yawk accent (no offense, Pizza God! - Hopefully none taken!). Anyway, what makes Johnny's special is the crust. Their sauces and cheeses are great, but the bread must have a secret ingredient or something. I would also recommend Johnny's Calzones and Strombolis.

This restaurant is very hard to drive by without patronizing! Give it a shot and say "Hi" to Johnny!
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Johnny's New York Pizza
1000 South Wadsworth Blvd
Lakewood, CO
303-935-8818

French Food, Anyone?

2009-04-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

I have been to just a handful of French restaurants between here, Canada and France, so if you're in Colorado and you don't want to bother with the airfare or hassle, Le Central is a great and convenient bet. Located in a very Central area (hence the name), this cozy restaurant humbly occupies the corner of 8th and Lincoln. I like the simple provincial architectural exterior as much as the cozy interior of the various dining rooms. Many of the staff are international in origin and do in fact speak French, if you want make an attempt with "the" language of gastronomy.

Food and Wine - that's what it's all about at Le Central. I've eaten here at least 10 times and like all components of the menu. If you like pate`s and cheeses, you will be right at home. If you like great baguette bread and super creamy butter, Le Central is a must. In the entree section, please make an attempt at one of their great mussel dishes, which I doubt you will find as varied or as accessible in the Denver area. In the wine department, Le Central will please even the most discriminating of wine connoisseurs in both French reds and whites. As a side note, I asked for a nice heavy California Cab. Moments later, the server brought a tempting glass back. I sipped, it tasted great, BUT it was a hearty Bordeaux, which she appropriately switched out - I hope I didn't insult them by even asking for a Cali Cab in the first place - after all, we are talking about a French restaurant, right?

Well, "did you save room for desert?" I did! Usually, I cannot leave Le Central without retasting their amazing creme brulee. This dish is otherworldly and I'm guessing that many of the other pastries are as equally engaging.

Le Central bills itself out as "the" affordable French Restaurant in town - their economic pricing lives up to their slogan. As such, I would strongly recommend that your party makes reservations or go a bit earlier than main meal times and I bet you'll get a seat. Le Central is usually quite crowded because it does boast a well deserved reputation in the culinary arts. Bon chance!
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Le Central - "The" Affordable French Restaurant
Corner of 8th & Lincoln
Denver, CO
303.863.8094
www.lecentral.com

Mojitos Cuban Bistro - New in Denver

2009-04-16T22:32:00.000-07:00

It was time for a beer after the movie I had just seen at the Esquire Movie Theater... Or, so I thought. The restaurant formerly known as Chives, then Piscos, then Mel's is now "Mojitos Cuban Bistro." Although I'm usually skeptical of anything too trendy, I thought that this eatery/drinkery was quite nice and will handily serve as a stopping point, before or after a movie at the Esquire. I want to say that the Mojito poured by a very competent and affable barkeep was second to none, that being a Havana original. I also kept myself distracted with a Bohemia beer and some empanadas as an appetizer. If the empanadas are indicative of the entrees there, I am definitely going back and soon.

You might find Mojitos on www.restaurant.com, which is also on my travel website, www.aztecmundo.com.

Ambiance was tastefully Caribbean and staff exceptionally friendly - Please give this establishment a taste!

Mojitos Cuban Bistro
1120 East 6th Ave
Denver CO 80218
303-777-8222
info@mojitosdenver.com
www.mojitosdenver.com