dee Cuisine

NYC: Qi Bangkok Eatery

2012-01-27T00:06:00.001-05:00

Credit: Qi Restaurant

Qi (pronounced: “Chee”) is a great Thai restaurant just west of Times Square. When I was invited to join a couple friends for dinner at Qi I was a bit skeptical. Good food in Times Square. Is this a tourist trap?

Believe it or not. The food is excellent. The prices are great, especially for the quality of the food you get. And it just looks so pretty inside with the white décor.

The menu is divided in two sections: Bangkok Classic menu and the Bangkok Selection by Pichet Ong, a well known pastry chef.

The appetizers at Qi are delicious. There's so much to try so I'd recommend trying the Assorted Fritters which comes with crispy chicken-shrimp dumplings, Asian chive corn dumplings spring rolls, sesame tofu and blanket shrimps. Served w/ peanut sweet chili sauce. All are delicious, but the best is the sesame tofu.

My favorite entrée was the King Fish Teh–Pho Tumeric Curry. It's a big piece of fried king fish served in a clay pot with spinach, onions, napa cabbage, and lemongrass in a tumeric coconut curry. I've had king fish plenty of times - usually fried drizzled with soy sauce and over rice, but this is a new take I'm glad I've tried.

The Steamed Ginger Chilean Sea Bass in a cast iron pot is another excellent dish to try. Glass vermicelli, bok choy, napa cabbages, celery, Chinese broccoli and shitake mushrooms in
house soy sauce.

For dessert, I highly recommend the Coconut Mousse Cake (pineapple confit, cinnamon, rum milk, toasted coconut) or if you prefer something rich and savory, try the Chocolate Hazelnut Dome (Ovaltine glaze, chocolate chili ganache, macaroon crust, salted bark).

Qi also has another location near Union Square, but I've heard from several people that this is better.

Qi Bangkok Eatery
675 Eighth Ave
New York, NY 10036
Tel: (212) 247-8991
qirestaurant.com

Aureole and American Sommelier’s 12-Session Wine Series

2012-01-26T00:01:00.000-05:00

Charlie Palmer's restaurant Aureole has teamed with American Sommelier – the nation's preeminent wine education organization – to host a monthly series of experiential wine events. The 12-session series will take place at Aureole once a month and is designed to help participants make informed and intelligent wine choices while exploring unique topics.

During each seminar, American Sommelier President and CEO Andrew Bell and Aureole Beverage Director Justin Lorenz will guide attendees through a tasting of 10 wines carefully selected to illustrate the evening’s theme paired with light hors d'oeuvres from Aureole's Executive Chef Marcus Ware.

The price for enrollment is $150 per event. Individuals wishing to attend any five events will receive a 5% discount, while those signing up for all 12 receive a 10% discount.

Image Credit: Aureole

Seminar Schedule
Location: Aureole's Private Halo Room

Sparkle & Shine
February 6th
Sparkling wine of the world from Cava to Prosecco to Champagne and beyond. Learn about the different grapes, regions, laws, and processes. Just in time for Valentine's Day.

Age (Ain't Nothing but a Number)
March 19th
The effects of aging on wine. Learn about what happens over time and how it alters the characteristics of a wine.

Lock, Stock & Barrel
April 23rd
The effects of oak on wine. Learn and taste how species of oak compare, how cooperage works, and how size matters.

A Rosé by Any Other Name Wouldn’t Smell as Sweet
May 21st
A rosé focused seminar. Learn about the different methods for making rosé and the rosé-making regions of the world. Gear up for summer sipping.

For more information and an updated list of sessions, visit www.charliepalmer.com.

Aureole
One Bryant Park
135 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036
www.charliepalmer.com

NYChiliFest 2012

2012-01-25T19:12:00.003-05:00

Image Credit: NYC ChiliFest

NYChiliFest 2012, New York City's Biggest Chili Fest is happening on Sunday, January 29, 2012 at the Chelsea Market. This is the ultimate celebration of chili, beer and all things spicy. At the event you can try chili made by dozens of NYC’s best restaurants and cutting edge chefs, all competing for the Golden Chili Mug 2012 title.

Samuel Adams is matching 4 of their favorite chili-eating beers and will be pouring from several locations in the concourse. There are fewer tickets this year, which means better access to chili and more room to digest, so be sure to grab a ticket while they're still available.

Ticket proceeds go to Food Systems NYC in support of their effort to build a just and vibrant, regional food and farm economy, which promotes human and environmental health, and prevents hunger.

Chili Ticket: $45
Entitles the bearer to all the chili and music you can handle.

Chili+Beer Ticket*: $55
Entitles the bearer to all the chili, Samuel Adams beers, and music you can handle.

* Must be 21 or over to purchase.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit chilifest2012.com.

Mexican fare at Casa Villa in Stamford

2012-01-24T00:02:00.001-05:00

If you're in Stamford and in the mood for good tacos and savory Mexican dishes, head to Casa Villa. Casa Villa has two locations in Stamford on 182 West Main Street and 866 East Main Street.

Casa Villas tacos are made with soft corn tortillas and topped with chopped onions, cilantro and salsa. Tacos cost no more than $3, so you can try a bunch of them and be satisfied. Or, try three along with rice and beans for $8.50. Our favorites:

De Adobada (Chili-marinated Pork)
De Pollo (Chicken)
De Bistec (Beef)
De Chicharron (Pork cracklings) - we love chicharron, and usually eat it with rice. Whenever we see it on the menu, we order some (even additional orders for takeout). Here, you can have it in a taco. They break them up into small pieces, so each bite is crunchy and flavorful.

Bistec a la Mexicana con Arroz Frijoles y Tortillas (Tender pieces of steak with onions, tomatoes and fresh jalapeños. Served w/ rice and beans and Tortillas), is an excellent dish to try, especially if you like your food spicy. Typically when I order dishes with jalapeños, I don't even notice them. That's an exception here.

Other entrées include chicken, pork, beef, and seafood dishes - familiar dishes, and chef specialities, including fajitas and enchiladas. Most dishes come with rice and beans and a side of tortillas, so be prepared to be stuffed.

Casa Villa also delivers, so order online via their website or call in and order some chicharron on the side. It tastes great when you use it as a topping over rice and beans.

Tip: Checkin on foursquare and get special deals like 20% off your bill or a free dessert.

Casa Villa
866 East Main Street
Stamford, CT 06902
Tel: (203) 348-0622
casavillarestaurant.com

NYC's Chocolate Bar sells tasty chocolate treats

2012-01-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

Nowadays there are a lot of chocolate confections made by numerous chocolatiers. Chocolate with pretzels, coffee beans, and even chiles. We've tried a bunch of them, and one shoppe that stands out is Chocolate Bar in the West Village of NYC. Chocolate Bar sells premium chocolates, coffee, teas and baked goods, many produced locally, all created with natural ingredients of the highest standards.

What makes Chocolate Bar so special? Maybe the eye catching chocolate bar wrappers. Maybe the chocolate concoctions. Maybe the great taste. How about all of the above.

Chocolate Bar's Half Pint Chocolate Bars

Shown above is the Half Pint Chocolate Bars gift box, one of the many gift sets you can order. For $21, the box comes with hand-poured Belgian chocolate bars in seven flavors: Milk Nutty, Milk Salty Pretzel, Black & Tan, Dark Chile, Dark Espresso, Dark Salty Pretzel & Milk Crispy.

Milk Salty Pretzel (oops, I cracked it)

Chocolate Bar also sells Fatties (thick layered chocolate bars), brownies, suckers (chocolate lollipops), hot chocolate, chocolate blended tea, and other confections. Not in NYC? Chocolate Bar has an e-boutique where you can buy all their goodies - store.chocolatebarnyc.com. Their treats make great gifts.

Chocolate Bar
19 8th Avenue
between Jane & W 12th
West Village NYC
P: 212-366-1541
Twitter: @chocolatebarnyc
www.chocolatebarnyc.com

Great Pizza at Rizutto's Wood-Fired Pizza Kitchen in Stamford

2012-01-22T00:11:00.000-05:00

Fairfield County has the some of best pizza spots in the Tri-State area. One of them is Rizzuto's Wood-Fired Pizza Kitchen, which has 4 locations in Connecticut: Bethel, West Hartford, Westport, and its recent addition, Stamford. On the menu are antipasti, pasta dishes, specials written on their blackboard, and of course, Neapolitan-style pizza. The pizza are sold in individual sizes (which really is enough for 2 people to share), and in a large size.

Parma Margherita Pizza

Rizzuto's Margherita pizza is made with house-made mozzarella, plum tomato, basil, EVOO and can be served plain or with set toppings, like the "Tony" made with grilled chicken and spinach, or "Rocky," made with shrimp, roasted garlic, and olives. The Parma pizza is a great pie. Slices of Proscuitto di Parma are added right after the pie comes out of the oven. The pizza is thin and crisp. The large chunks of plum tomatoes burst with flavor as you bite into them. And the cheese is perfect...it's one of the key ingredients that makes each bite wonderful. The cheese is rich, and added the right amount of saltiness to the pizza. The crust - one of my favorite parts - had a nice chew to it and was crunchy.

Of the signature pies, We've fallen in love with the Sausage and Potato pizza. It's made with Rizzuto's house-made fennel sausage, slices of potato, broccoli rabe, roasted garlic, and parmigiano. One bite got us hooked. Plus the kick from the red chili pepper flakes added a nice touch.

Sausage and Potato Pizza

Rizzuto's tops our list of the best pizzerias in Connecticut, heck, in the tri-state area. We'll be back. Is it bad we had pizza 3 days in a row?

Parma pizza

Check out Rizzuto's Facebook page for special deals, like 20% off carry out orders and free entrées with purchase.

Rizzuto's
1980 West Main Street
Stamford, CT 06902
Tel: (203) 324-5900
Twitter: @rizzutos
Facebook: facebook.com/pages/Rizzutos-Wood-Fired-Kitchen-and-Bar
rizzutos.com

FIAF Wine Tour de France 2012

2012-01-21T20:32:00.002-05:00

French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF) has announced its wine tasting sessions for the first half of 2012. Presented in partnership with retailer AOC Fine Wines, each tasting offers a variety of wines from their portfolio of well-known to rare wines.

New this year, FIAF has re-imagined the signature Wine Tour de France, making it even more informative and engaging for wine lovers of all levels. Explore wines by region with the first three tastings, and then delve deeper into the art of wine collecting and new trends in wine in the second three.

Below is the full list of tastings.

Classic French Wines

Burgundy
Monday, January 30 at 7pm
With John Ragan, Wine Director for Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group; Formerly of Eleven Madison Park

Rhône Valley
Monday, March 5 at 7pm
With Joe Campanale, Beverage Director/Partner at dell'anima, L’Artusi, and Anfora

Bordeaux
Monday, March 19 at 7pm
With Levi Dalton, Sommelier at Boulud Sud

Beyond the Bottle

Buyers & Cellars: Starting Your Collection
Monday, April 9 at 7pm
With Hristo Zisovski, Beverage Director at Ai Fiori

Green Terroirs: The Organic Debate
Monday, April 30 at 7pm
With Pascaline Lepeltier, Wine Director at Rouge Tomate

Battle of the Bubbles: Champagne vs Sparkling
Monday, June 4 at 7pm
With Alex LaPratt, Head Sommelier at DB Bistro Moderne

Tasting are $95 for FIAF Members; $115 for Non-Members. FIAF also offers special prices for three tastings or for the full six-tasting series. Check the FIAF.org for more information.

Fine Food for a Cause

2012-01-20T17:31:00.001-05:00

Monday, January 30th, 6:30-9:30pm
At: 203 Studios, 112 Southfield Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902

On January 30th, the Stamford Family YMCA will host 'Fine Food for a Cause' to raise awareness and support for their childhood anti-obesity programs. The evening will include signature small plate dishes from fourteen of the areas top chefs and restaurants, celebrity guests and a silent and live auction.

Join us as celebrity honorees, Miss America 2011 Teresa Scanlan and restaurateur and TV personality Joe Bastianich, are honored for their work with healthy living. Scott Wapner, host of CNBC's 'Fast Time Money Report,' will serve as the Master of Ceremonies.

Treat yourself to fabulous food from Barcelona, Columbus Park, Da Pietro, David's Soundview Catering, Forte Gelato, Match, Morton's the Steakhouse, Napa, Strada 18, Sushi Village, Sweet Lisa's, Tappo, Tarry Lodge and Taste by Karla Sorrentino.

All proceeds will help fund a multi-purpose professional teaching kitchen to support the Stamford Family YMCA's youth development and healthy living programs.

For more information and to register for the event, visit stamfordymca.org/finefood.html.

NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2012: The Hurricane Club

2012-01-19T08:34:00.005-05:00

Restaurant Week is the perfect time to discover new restaurants, or to dine at your favorites. The Hurricane Club in the Flatiron District whisks you away to the Polynesian Islands with their decor and cuisine.

The Hurricane Club's dinner menu for Restaurant Week offers a great selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts for $35, an excellent deal. You'll find typical appetizers, like shumai, spring rolls, and dumplings, to unusual items like PB & Guava "J" with Proscuitto and Thai Basil. Our picks: the PB & J and Fiery Pork Dumplings. Items are served as soon as they're plated so the sandwiches arrived first: 5 mini PB & J sandwiches toasted to perfection and topped with a Thai Basil leaf wrapped with a thin slice of Proscuitto. Sounds interesting, doesn't it? It was amazing! Who knew Proscuitto and Thai basil would complement each other? Each bite was savory and made you want more. The pork dumplings were excellent, topped with scallion, shaved Napa cabbage, peanuts and a sweet, yet spicy Hibachi sauce.

PB & Guava "J"

It was hard to make a decision on the main course. Lobster Noodles Fra Diavlo and Wok-seared Filet with Crispy Watercress like great winners, just from looking at what other diners were enjoying. We chose the Cashew Chicken and Sake Steamed Mussels. The chicken aka "stolen Shanghai recipe" was good - large chunks of chicken breast battered and fried and smothered with a chili cashew sauce. The Mussels were excellent. Large PEI mussels cooked in a sake broth made with big chunks of ginger, chilies and cilantro. I've never had mussels prepared this way, but it was delicious, and a big portion.

Fiery Pork Dumplings

We opted for virgin cocktails - their signature fruit juice, which had hints of rose (or in this case, would it be orchids?) and a coconut cocktail served in a coconut. Fun! Both were excellent. Had we known the prices beforehand, we woulda had it with alcohol. The drinks were priced from $10-13 but it was worth it.

For dessert, you only have a few choices: Chocolate Kill-Devil's Food Cake and 2 flavors of soft-serve ice cream - piña colada and Thai coffee. The chocolate cake was savory with a garnish of a crispy caramelized banana. The Thai coffee ice cream was great: light ice cream with ground Thai coffee sprinkled on top. Shame on us. We didn't finish dessert because we were stuffed.

Overall, an excellent dining experience. We sure wouldn't mind getting a couple orders of the PB & J. Yes, it's that good!

The Hurricane Club Winter
2012 Restaurant Week Dinner Menu

The Hurricane Club
360 Park Ave. South
New York, NY 10010
Tel: (212) 951-7111
thehurricaneclub.com

Via Sforza Trattoria in Westport, CT Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

2012-01-17T14:46:00.001-05:00

This year, Via Sforza Trattoria celebrates its 20th year in business. Festivities will take place on their regular first come, first serve basis, and include an Italian guitarist twice in February and a special Valentine's Day menu. They will also offer reservations for an Opera Night Feb. 6.

Image courtesy of Via Sforza Trattoria

Owners Dino and Maria Sforza founded Via Sforza in 1992 when they transformed their pizzeria, Dino’s Pizza, into a family dining establishment, formerly at County Mall in Norwalk.

Dino and executive chef Chris Malagise of Norwalk serve authentic Sforza-family recipes and
other classic Italian dishes they invented over the years.

“A lot of people started acquiring a more sophisticated Italian food taste in the early ‘90s, so we went with the trend and created Via Sforza Trattoria," Dino said. “We started offering Italian dishes like risotto, fresh pastas and brick oven pizzas, with ingredients like porcini mushrooms, saffron, truffle oil, and fresh clams."

Dino and Maria, Westport residents born in Italy, rebuilt their restaurant in its current location in 2005, modeling it after an Italian farmhouse with the atmosphere of a piazza. Most of their staff are family, including Malagise, who married into the family years ago.

Maria said their customers are also like family. As hostess at Via Sforza, she often greets former students of Norwalk High School who ate at Dino’s Pizza after school. Now they bring their families into Via Sforza.

"We have a lot of loyal customers that we look forward to," Maria said. "Hopefully they will be
with us another 20 years."

Via Sforza offers Sunday brunch, private parties, catering and take-out menus, specialty pizzas
from their brick and conventional ovens, five daily specials, and regular Opera Nights.

To make reservations for Via Sforza's Opera Night on February 6th, call (203) 454-4444.

Via Sforza Trattoria
243 Post Road West
Westport, CT 06880
Tel: (203) 454-4444
www.viasforza.com
www.facebook.com/ViaSforza

Lunch at Ciano, NYC

2012-01-16T00:00:00.002-05:00

Ciano was named one of the Top 10 new restaurants in New York City for 2011 by Sam Sifton of The New York Times. I had the opportunity to wine and dine at Ciano's 'Sneak Peek' event when they first opened in October 2010, and recently dined here for lunch.

The menu of Ciano is focused on seasonal ingredients, rather than the specific cuisine of a particular Italian region, so their menu changes often. Offered in addition to an a la carte lunch menu, Ciano has a Lunch Market Menu offering a three course meal for $20.11. Not a bad deal, considering the quality of food you get at this well known restaurant. On the lunch market menu you had a choice of 4 items from the Primi (first course) section, including salads and soups. The second course, Secondi, has set of 4 pasta dishes and sandwiches to choose from. And, finally, there are three Dolce treats.

Off the Lunch Market Menu, I tried the Crespelle and Penne as my savory dishes, and the Panna Cotta as the sweet dish. Crespelle are two savory crepes filled with ricotta spinach, zucchini and swiss chard that are absolutely delicious, and light. The penne was perfectly cooked - al dente with a delicious ragu sauce made with braised veal, proscuitto, and smoked pecorino.

Crespelle: Savory Crepes filled with Ricotta Spinach, Zucchini and Swiss Chard

Penne

The Panna Cotta was smooth and creamy with wonderful hints of vanilla (and you can see the vanilla in each spoonful). The blueberry compote was a nice touch with each blueberry popping with flavor.

Panna Cotta with Blueberry Compote

Though not on the Market Lunch Menu, the Veal Meatballs served with Creamy White Polenta with Herbs and Truffle Pecorino is one of Ciano's popular dishes. For $18, you get 2 large veal meatballs that, quoting The New York Times, have a "texture of down pillows." Most people who dine here get this dish, and often recommend it.

Back to the Market Lunch Menu, it's a great deal for great food...and great combinations.

Ciano
45 E 22nd St
New York, NY 10010
Tel: (212) 982-8422
www.cianonyc.com

Wine Classes at Tarry Wine in Port Chester, NY

2012-01-15T13:54:00.001-05:00

Tarry Wine has announced the next set of wine classes held at their store loft for the months of January and February. The classes will be led by wine author and critic from The Wine Advocate, Antonio Galloni. Each class costs $75 per person, and includes 6 wines, cheese and salumi.

Wednesday, January 18th, 7-8pm
Brunello & Rosso di Montalcino

Wednesday, February 8th, 7-8pm
Barolo & Barbaresco

Wednesday, Febrary 29th, 7-8pm
Amarone & Valpolicella

Tarry Wine
175 North Main Street
Port Chester, NY 10573
Tel: 914.939.7234
info@tarrywine.com
tarrywine.com

The Capital Grille Introduces $18 Plates Winter Menu

2012-01-11T01:04:00.002-05:00

The Capital Grille recently launched its $18 Winter Plates Menu on January 9th, debuting three new selections: Wagyu Cheeseburger with Fried Egg and Crisp Onions, Roasted Pepper Soup and Roasted Root Vegetables. Guests of The Capital Grille can customize their lunch, choosing from nine “plates” offerings – three soups or salads, three sandwiches and three sides – all for $18. For guests with a limited amount of time at lunch, The Capital Grille ensures they can enjoy the personalized service and mouth-watering cuisine that characterize a Capital Grille dining experience and still be on their way in about 45 minutes.

For starters, guests can warm up with a bowl of either Roasted Pepper Soup, a savory soup made with chunks of carrots and puréed roasted pepper, or Clam Chowder, which combines New England's finest, freshly shucked clams and tender potatoes.

Roasted Red Pepper Soup

Clam Chowder

The main course is a choice of three sandwiches and a side. New to the menu is the Wagyu Cheeseburger with Fried Egg and Crisp Onions. According to Executive Chef Matthew Schmalle, the cheeseburger features premium Japanese Wagyu beef blended with the right amount of seasoning, and is the kind of fresh twist on an American classic The Capital Grille is known for.

Wagyu Cheeseburger with Fried Egg and Crisp Onions and Truffle Fries

The Mini Tenderloin is an excellent choice as well. You are served two sliders with juicy cuts of tenderloin, Boursin cheese and grilled mushrooms nestled between a toasted mini brioche. The meat is so tender, you won't even need the steak knife by your plate. Though most people would pair the truffle fries with this dish, I recommend the French beans which were crispy and delicious.

Mini Tenderloin Sandwiches with French Beans

I also recommend trying one of the Capital Grille non-alcoholic drinks. Both the Mint Lemonade and a Grapefruit Soda are excellent choices. They're refreshing and pair well with any dish.

Grapefruit soda and mint lemonade

And for dessert, the Classic Crème Brûlée is my favorite. I've tried almost every item on their dessert menu, and this remains on the top of my list. I always order this because it's made perfectly, with the crisp caramelized top and rich vanilla custard.

Crème Brûlée

Watching the clock, I was able to finish my meal within 45 minutes. Quite surprising for the service and quality of food you get. I highly recommend stopping by for lunch if you're around. This is the best lunch deal in town.

The Capital Grille
230 Tresser Blvd
Stamford, CT 06901
Tel: (203) 517-4039
capitalgrille.com

Brunch at Nicholas Roberts Gourmet Bistro in Norwalk, CT

2012-01-09T22:01:00.003-05:00

In Connecticut? Need ideas on where to go for Sunday brunch? Try Nicholas Roberts Gourmet Bistro, a Modern American restaurant, in Norwalk, CT. Sunday Brunch hours are from 9am - 4pm. On their menu interesting dishes that include a variety of egg burritos, open faced steak sandwiches, and more

Although we originally came for French Toast, we opted for the Devil's Advocate and the Potato Crusted Frittata. The Devil's Advocate is a burrito made with scrambled eggs, lobster, shitake mushrooms, bacon, and truffle oil with a side of fries. Priced at $13.25, it's a great deal, especially for what you get. The combination pairs well, and has a nice earthy taste - thanks to the mushrooms and truffle oil. And if you let the oil drip onto your fries - you've got tasty truffle fries.

Devil's Advocate

The Potato Crusted Frittata, $9.75, is another great choice. I thought I was going to get a cold frittata, but it came out piping hot and did not look like the typical frittata. An interesting twist I must say. Think of it more as an omelet stuffed with chorizo and caramelized onions, topped with a crispy layer of thinly sliced potatoes with a dollop of sour cream and fresh salsa. The flavors married well, and the crunch gave this frittata some character.

Potato Crusted Frittata

When I arrived at NRGB I totally forgot it's BYOB, so if you're here for brunch, you might want to bring your own mixer to make the experience complete. Otherwise, a cup of Zumbach's gourmet coffee or a glass of homemade iced tea will be fine.

Brunch Menu, 01/08/2012

Can't make it for brunch? They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. We'll be back for more.

Nicholas Roberts Gourmet Bistro
75 Main Street
Norwalk, CT 06851
Tel: (203) 229-0035
nicholasrobertsbistro.com
Facebook: facebook.com/NicholasRobertsBistro

Cash Only

NYC Restaurant Week 2012

2012-01-04T10:27:00.001-05:00

It's one of my favorite times of the year: NYC Restaurant Week.

NYC Restaurant Week continues to celebrate its 20th anniversary year with 20 days of prix-fixe menus at more than 300 of the City's most popular fine- dining establishments from January 16 to February 10, Mondays through Fridays. Costs will remain $24.07 for three-course prix-fixe lunches and $35 for three-course prix-fixe dinners (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity). Diners can begin to make reservations starting January 4 at nycgo.com/restaurantweek.

Also, be sure to register your American Express to get a $20 statement credit when you dine at 3 participating restaurants. Registration is limited to the first 15,000 enrollees: https://enroll.amexnetwork.com/US/en/nycrestaurantweek/?cid=nycwrw-q12012-RWHomepageCTA-us

Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

2011-12-26T21:46:00.000-05:00

Spaghetti Bolognese is such a comforting meal, and is very easy to make. Cook time is about 1 - 1 1/2 hours, but the wait is worth it. This recipe is enough to serve 4-5 people.

Ingredients

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp butter, plus 2 tbsp butter for the pasta
1 carrot, peeled (just use the peeler for the whole carrot - no need to dice)
1 medium onion diced
1 rib celery finely diced
About 6 baby bella mushrooms diced (about 1/4 the package)
5 cloves garlic, diced
1/2 lb ground veal
1/2 lb ground pork
1 lb ground beef
1/2 can of tomato paste
1 28 oz can of diced tomatoes
2 dried bay leaves
1 cup milk
1 cup dry white wine
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

Directions

Bolognese

In a 6 to 8-quart, heavy bottomed saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add the onions, celery, and garlic and sweat over medium heat until the vegetables are translucent and soft but not browned, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Add the veal, pork, and beef and stir into the vegetables.
Cook the meat, stirring often to keep the meat from sticking together until browned.
Add the bay leaves, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, milk, and wine and simmer over medium-low heat for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and remove from the heat

Pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions. Make sure it's al dente.
Set aside 1 cup of pasta water and drain the pasta.
Return the cooked pasta to the same pot it was cooked in. Add the butter and toss the pasta.
Add the bolognese and toss so that the pasta is evenly coated by the sauce.
Serve with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Best Global Eats 2011

2011-12-22T22:43:00.004-05:00

Yogur Story's Fat Pig Fried Rice, Red Carpet Waffles, and Cobb Omelet

As the year comes to an end, we thought of sharing a recap of the best eats we've had in 2011. We've travelled to many countries and dined at new local restaurants, as well as our all-time favorites.

Here's a list of what resonates as the best global eats in 2011:

Best Bar
Délirium Café, Brussels, Belgium

Best Breakfast
Cafe Kaila, Honolulu, Hawaii

Best Brunch
Yogur Story, Honolulu, Hawaii

Best Burger - it's a tie
The Beach Burger, Norwalk, CT
Shake Shack, NYC and Westport, CT

Best Cheese Market
Alkmaar cheese market, Alkmaar, The Netherlands

Best Colombian
Memo's Restaurant & Bakery, Norwalk, CT

Best Croque Monsieur
Markt, NYC

Best Croissant
Momofuku Milk Bar, NYC

Best Gyro
Lefteris, Tarrytown, NY

Best Hawaiian Food
Helena's Hawaiian Food, Honolulu, Hawaii

Best Indian Restaurant
Koh-i-noor Indian Restaurant, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Best Macaroni & Cheese
The Capital Grille, various locations - you've gotta try their lobster mac and cheese

Best Moules Frites
Le Petit Moulinsart, Montréal, Canada

Best Musubi
Mana Bu's, Honolulu, Hawaii

Best Panini
Tarry Market, Port Chester, NY - Try their prime rib or porchetta panini served on weekends
Eataly Rosticceria, NYC - Prime rib panini is available daily and the porchetta panini is served on Thursdays

Best Pizza (for 2011)
RéNapoli Pizzeria & Chicago Italian Beef, Old Greenwich, CT

Maison Antoine Pommes Frites

Best Pommes Frites
Maison Antoine, Brussels, Belgium

Best Ramen
Goma Tei Ramen, Honolulu, Hawaii

Best Sandwiches
De Kaaskamer, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Best Shrimp Truck
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, North Shore, Hawaii

Best Surinamese
Spang Makandra, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Best Quiche
Les Tartes de Francoise, NYC

Best Wild Boar
Kauai Wild Boar & Fruit Stand, Anahola, Kauai, Hawaii

Desserts

Best Cheesecake
Les Tartes de Francoise, NYC

Best Macarons
La Maison du Macaron, NYC

Best Mochi
Bubbies, Hawaii

Best Pastries
Wittamer, Brussels, Belgium

Best Hot Chocolate
Chocopologie, South Norwalk, CT

Best Shave Ice
Waiola Shave Ice, Honolulu, Hawaii

Grab a great slice at Harry's Italian Pizza Bar, NYC

2011-12-21T23:38:00.002-05:00

We've fallen in love with the pizza at Harry's Italian Pizza Bar in Rockefeller Center, NYC. Shall we save love at first bite?

The pizza bar opened in late summer 2011 selling square pizzas by the slice or pie, salads, and sandwiches. For about $2.75 - $4, you get a delicious, crispy thin crust slice of pizza available plain, or with a choice of toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or mushrooms.

We're a big fan of the mushroom slice - delicious, flavorful and sweet pizza sauce, real mozzarella that adds the perfect touch of saltiness to the pizza, and of course, and generous portion of sliced mushrooms on top. Two or three slices would make a satisfying meal.

The pepperoni slice is just as good - with thin, crispy slices of it. A little on the greasy side, but hey, that's what you get when you order a pepperoni slice.

The Menu

Pizza By The Slice
Cheese – $2.75
Sausage – $3.25
Pepperoni – $3.25
White – $3
Mushroom – $3.25
Special – $4

Sandwiches
Mozzarella & Tomato – $6.50
Prosciutto, Peppers & Mozzarella – $7.50
Italian Tuna – $7.50
Grilled Chicken, Peppers & Mozzarella – $7.50
Harry's Italian Hero – $8.50

Salads
Mixed Greens – $5.50
Ceasar – $6.50
Arugula – $6.50
Anti Pasto – $6.50
(Add chicken to salads for $2.50)

Harry's Italian Pizza Bar
30 Rockefeller Plaza
Concourse Level
New York, NY 10112
Tel: (212) 218-1450
harrysitalian.com

Hours:
Monday - Friday: 10:30am - 9pm
Saturday - Sunday: 11am - 8pm

Image credit: Harry's Italian Pizza Bar

NYC: La Maison du Macaron

2011-12-20T23:00:00.000-05:00

As what many foodies say, the macaron is the anti-cupcake. A macaron is a French cream-filled sandwich cookie that is light and delicious. My friend recommended I try La Maison du Macaron, as she claimed they made the best macarons in town. And I believe it.

Today I stopped by La Maison du Macaron during my busy lunch break. I was lured by the bright colored macarons on display and a sign saying today's lunch sandwich special was Croque Monsieur, one of my favorites.

As soon as I stepped in, the wonderful aroma of baked goods greeted me. Freshly baked croissants, madelines, French pastries, and macarons were aplenty, and the queue to order wasn't so bad - about 5 or so customers selecting the perfect gift box to place the macarons in. They all looked like kids in a candy store as they pointed at all the macarons they wanted to purchase.

For $2.50, you can get an airy macaron. Choose from a variety of flavors like Nutella, pistachio, speculoos (a caramel gingerbread filling from Belgium), and other exotic flavors.

Macarons also make great gifts. La Maison du Macaron has gift boxes in a variety of sizes so you can find a gift for $7.50 and up, depending on how many your purchase.

Clockwise: speculoos, Nutella, pistachio macarons

Their Croque Monsieur, made with ham and Swiss cheese, was served with a side salad of mixed greens. A great filling meal for under $10. They also have quiche available if you're not in the mood for a sandwich.

Croque Monsieur, $9.25

The macaron menu changes every season, so check their Facebook page for updates.

La Maison du Macaron
132 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10011
Tel: (212) 243-2757
http://www.nymacaron.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/La-Maison-du-Macaron/177936658893601

Also featured in Time Out New York.

NYC: Terakawa Ramen

2011-12-19T22:11:00.002-05:00

Terakawa Ramen is a great ramen spot in the Flatiron/Gramercy area of NYC. They serve ramen, Katsu curry and daily rice bowl specials.

My favorite is the Terakawa Ramen, a pork bone based noodle soup & bamboo shoot, red ginger, roast pork, boiled egg, scallion, and kikurage (a Japanese mushroom). There is so much flavor in the broth so you know that they've spent days making it.

Terakawa Ramen and Gyoza

The tan tan ramen is also another great soup made with minced pork in a spicy sesame broth.

Tan Tan Ramen

On the table are some condiments like fried garlic and sesame seeds, which comes in a grinder. A bottle of chili oil is at your disposal so you can make your broth as spicy as you wish.

If ramen is not your thing, I recommend the tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) served over rice.

If you're having lunch here, beware...getting a side dish (like gyoza) for an extra $2 will make you so full that you might have a serious food coma.

Happy hour is from 5 to 7 with 16 oz Sapporo for $2.50.

Terakawa Ramen
18 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10010
Tel: (212) 777-2939

Cash only.

The Best Hot Chocolate Mixes

2011-12-16T00:14:00.001-05:00

There's nothing better than warming up with a hot cocoa during the winter. We've bought many tins of hot chocolate from gourmet shops to local grocery stores. Here's our list of the top 3 brands of hot chocolate, which can be bought at your local store, or online.

Williams-Sonoma
Williams-Sonoma Hot Chocolate is made with shavings of Guittard premium chocolate rather than cocoa powder. These shavings of bittersweet and milk chocolate produce a rich, smooth cup of hot cocoa when added to hot milk - with no clumps. Definitely a treat to indulge in on a cold day. Also available in peppermint and salted caramel flavors. ($19.95, williams-sonoma.com)

Godiva
Godiva has been one of our favorites for years, and still is on our list of best hot chocolate mixes. It's rich and delicious, just like their chocolate. ($15, godiva.com)

And, we save the best for last...

Jacques Torres
Mr. Chocolate, Jacques Torres, makes the best hot chocolate. The Classic Hot Chocolate, is made with real chocolate - never cocoa powder. The result is a thick, rich, creamy hot chocolate which bursts with flavor. Making about 8-10 servings per tin, a cup of delicious hot cocoa for about $1.80-$2.25 a cup is a great deal. If you like spicy hot chocolate, Jacques Torres sells that too. ($18, mrchocolate.com)

Disclosure: The opinions expressed are my own and I received no compensation or product from any of these brands or their representatives.

Eastchester, NY: Piper's Kilt

2011-12-14T13:41:00.001-05:00

Manhattan Burger

You don't expect good food at a pub. Piper's Kilt claims it serves the best burger in town. But doesn't everyone use that tactic to lure you in?

Surprisingly Piper's Kilt serves great burgers, a variety of them are under $10. Our picks: the Manhattan Burger, topped with Canadian bacon, Swiss cheese, tomato and grilled onions and the Eastchester Burger which includes bacon, cheese, fried onion rings, lettuce and tomato with a side of chili. The Mushroom Burger is also another great choice.

And if you ask around "Have you ever been to Piper's Kilt?" You'll hear "Of course. Best burgers." Now that says a lot.

Brunch is served on weekends from 12 to 3. Nothing extravagant - egg platters with your choice of a Bloody Mary or brunch cocktail. Though they serve the perfect scrambled eggs, I'd opt for a burger instead. After all, I do think they serve the best burger in town.

Piper's Kilt is great for families or hanging out with friends. Casual atmosphere. Friendly staff. And, great burgers.

Side tidbit: Be prepared to wait. It's a small bar/pub and gets pretty packed on certain nights.

Piper's Kilt
434 White Plains Rd Map
Eastchester, NY 10709
Tel: (914) 779-0611

Eataly's Holiday Dine Around

2011-12-13T12:40:00.000-05:00

The Eataly Holiday Dine Around: A Culinary Trip Through Every Italian Region

On Saturday, December 24th, take a culinary trip around the 20 regions of Italy by eating your way through Eataly. They've planned a festive holiday dinner - 6 restaurants, 8 great chefs, 6 dishes, 1 amazing dine around for $180. Seats are limited - only 200, so register early.

Eataly
200 Fifth Avenue
New York, New York 10010

View the menu online, or register: www.regonline.com/Register/Checkin.aspx?EventID=1036432

BiteHunter Partners with LocalEats

2011-12-06T21:38:00.001-05:00

BiteHunter is an app and website that serves as a search engine for dining deals. Groupon, LivingSocial, ValPak, and Restaurant.com are some of the sites that feed BiteHunter. I found it to be a very useful app that saves me time so I don't have to read all the daily deal emails I receive. Just launch the app, specify if you're looking for gift cards, discounts, prix fixe, and other offers and it will pinpoint the deals on a map for you to click through, and possibly take advantage of.

Today, BiteHunter and LocalEats and BiteHunter announced great news for foodies: a new content-sharing partnership.

Here's the press release:

BiteHunter, the first real-time search engine for dining deals, and LocalEats, a top-selling travel app dedicated to helping diners find the best locally owned restaurants in America, announced an official partnership today. The partnership integrates the two mobile apps’ content to bring users a curated guide to the top locally owned restaurants with the best dining deals in real-time.

BiteHunter and LocalEats marry up content from each mobile app – dining deal information and curated local restaurant guide – to deliver the best possible prices at the best restaurants in America. Both apps solve problems in the marketplace, whether that be allowing for consumers to find available deals without registering for daily deal emails and newsletters, or allowing business travelers to find the best eats no matter where they are. Featuring more than 15,000 restaurants in more than 50 markets across the US, LocalEats can now pair up carefully chosen restaurants with the best dining deals.

“We’ve been looking forward to this partnership with LocalEats because we both have a vision of bringing the best of the best to our users,” said Gil Harel, CEO & co-founder of BiteHunter. “LocalEats is a top dining and travel app, and each of our content can only benefit our users. This new integration will take each app above and beyond others on the market.”

LocalEats app users will see BiteHunter's icon in the restaurant detail page, which reveals available deals at that location. When clicking the deal, they will go directly to the deal source. BiteHunter will provide users LocalEats' restaurant synopsis if a deal is from a LocalEats-selected restaurant, helping them to make better restaurant choices.

“Collaborating with BiteHunter gives LocalEats users an advantage when dining out at LocalEats-selected restaurants,” said Shannon Austin, strategic development officer of LocalEats. “Users can check the app at home or on the road and know they’re getting the best deal available at that restaurant on that day. BiteHunter is a pioneer in the deal aggregation space, and their intense focus on the dining space mirrors our own. This partnership can only benefit restaurants as more customers discover them and feel confident they’re getting a great value for their dining dollar."

For more information, visit http://www.BiteHunter.com or http://www.LocalEats.com. To download each app, visit BiteHunter and LocalEats in the iTunes App Store.

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About BiteHunter.com:
Co-founded by Gil Harel and Ido Shillon in 2010, BiteHunter is the first real-time search engine for dining deals. By aggregating deals from thousands of online sources, such as daily deal sites, restaurant web sites, Twitter and Foursquare, BiteHunter provides consumers with a one-stop resource for finding local dining deals. For more information, visit http://www.bitehunter.com.

About LocalEats:
LocalEats is dedicated to providing the best hand-curated restaurant guide in America. While the company began as Magellan Press, Inc., an independent book publishing company which created a popular dining guide for travelers called Where the Locals Eat, the guide went completely digital in 2008. LocalEats was the top paid dining app in the App Store in 2010, according to iTunes. Today the LocalEats iPhone and iPad apps and website are leading sources for the best regional dining information nationwide. With the inclusion of deal aggregation through its partner BiteHunter, LocalEats is now a one-stop resource for finding the best restaurants in America...at the best possible prices. For more information, visit http://www.localeats.com.

Screenshots of BiteHunter on LocalEats:

Chocopologie Popup Store opens in Greenwich

2011-12-06T18:04:00.001-05:00

Chocopologie is opening a popup store in in Greenwich, CT and will celebrate its opening on Tuesday, December 13th. Chocopologie is owned by Fritz Knipschildt, a Danish chef and chocolatier. You may recall seeing him as a contestant on Food Network's TV series Chopped.

We've dined at Chocopologie in Norwalk plenty of times, and we love their chocolate treats (more than their entrees). Their truffles are amazing, so it's definitely worth a visit.

Here's the flyer.