The Daily Chow

Growing Up

2013-05-14T12:22:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid (teen years included because hey to anyone under 40, we're all kids..) I had this definition in my head as to what growing up meant. Portions of it included independence, formulated self worth through success, not being broke, and hopefully at some point an "AH HAH" moment where everything makes sense, and I'd know exactly what I was supposed to do.

I turned 32 this year and to my younger family members, I'm one of the adults now, and to my aunts, uncles and parents, I'm still a kid. To me? I think I'll always be a kid figuring things and being playful, while other times dealing with life, in the most adult way I can.

My mom always told me that my perspective on birthdays and aging would change each year, and I have to say when you're 25, partying throughout the month and supposedly "living big".. it's hard to believe you'd ever want it any other way.

Maybe it's because I was on a 7 month, living out of my suitcase, travel mode, or maybe it's because I'm recovering from a few impediments so that I can compete in a weightlifting competition in June, or maybe it's the zen yoga side of me that came out.. but this year I wanted my birthday to be less about myself and more about my surroundings and the people.

I got a couple friends and the mr, we didn't party the night before, woke up early to join Hale Holistic for a 2 hour charity yoga session (amazing cause for HOPE benefiting the treatment/research of HIV, Cancer & Diabetes), had a healthy brunch, and spent the day in the sun.

This weekend was a lot about family visiting, eating together, playing video games, being out in the sun and just enjoying company at a slow pace.

I also got some amazing presents :D My friends pitched in to print a 3x2 copy of my Addy award winning digi painting, onto brushed stainless steel. It was hard to capture the texture, but the highlights are incredible. Flowers, pretty necklaces and a very appropriate card to also brighten up the house and make me smile.

My mom gave me the most adorable mini Orchid plant, that I'm going to try my best to keep alive and grow through the years.

On the otherside, for mother's day, some family birthdays and more, everyone got fitness gear. Yoga cloths, mats and etc. Because the theme this year is spreading being active, which is funny because my mom also got me new pants to run/squat in :D

I'm off to Google IO, and I can't believe the year is almost 1/2 way done. It was an awesome b.day and thank you to everyone for the amazing wishes, whether you reached me through Facebook, twitter, phone, email, in person, and pix from SF up next :D

Dear Anonymous

2013-05-10T17:16:00.002-07:00

I received the above criticism on my blog yesterday and wanted to take some time to write an open letter back, since the user didn't leave an email address or method of contact. That's the thing with the internet, whether via a blog, email, comment or other social outlets, it's easy to voice out a thought, without really engaging in conversation. The writer took the time to compose cohesive criticisms and pose valid questions, which despite it's context, I do appreciate and want to address the best I can.

About my blog and my approach to what I write about or showcase. I try to keep the blog lighthearted and geared towards sharing first hand experiences, from the photos I take, to the places I go and more. If you look through the entire body of content, rarely do I put specific businesses on "blast", that's what Yelp is for, and even my Yelps have more positive reviews than bad.

If anything, I prefer sharing about amazing restaurants, businesses and individuals, who do it right.

While true, my opinion may pale in comparison to many other big fish, you're mistaken in thinking that the intent of this space is to garner some sort of success or stardom out of it. It's my hobby and yes.. I can also make a dish and a cocktail. (btw slightly callow assumption and dig, don't you think?)
---------------------
With that said, I have a hunch that this comment on my blog was in response to a recent unfavored Yelp review I wrote, due to the odd timing and other messages I've been receiving.

I take what I write seriously, and in this case, visited the nearby business quite a few times before forming an "opinion."

But, because they left it anonymous.. i'll leave the detail of the business out.

Enough with the bad, I promise there's lots of good posts of some amazing San Diego places on the way.
^_^ Chow!

Perk Me Up

2013-05-08T18:09:00.001-07:00

Today was one of those Wednesdays that felt like one of those Mondays.. where it's not as if anything tragic happened, it was just a bit dreary and in need of life, sun and color.

Then surprise surprise!

I came home to an awesome care package, a collection of fair trade goodies from Klout and @ByMDesserts. A mix of various dark chocolates, gluten free cocoa & cayenne cupcakes, Numi Jasmine tea, Cafe La Duena coffee and Badger's chapstick. I can't wait to try baking/cooking up some breakfast and dessert noms with these and integrating some coconut oil/flour, honey and more.

A little perk me up for a night of creative work. Thanks Klout!!!

Sous Le Ciel De Paris! France | London Photo Diary

2013-05-03T21:07:00.001-07:00

We didn't wait in line to go up the Eiffel tower. I didn't set foot inside the Louvre, despite spending a monumental amount of time around it. We didn't even see the inside of Notre Dame in its entirety or splendor.

What we did do..

Walked the city streets when it rained. Re-discovered the French language, that I thought was lost to me. Sat under the Paris night skies, watching the clouds, while people were sleeping. Woke up just in time to see the sun set, every museum close, and drink espresso. Made friends with Italians at a nearby table, to discuss the beauty in Neopolitan pizzas. Discovered a French/Jamaican dive bar with 5 Euro Stellas. Had every type of Pate. Discovered that baked pastries, croissants in particular, are marvelous for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Listened to music and slow danced under the stars on the lover's bridge.

Became inspired to eat, read, create, shoot, draw and paint again.

It's taken me way too long to finally sort through the photos and pick out my favorites. It's funny, because while editing and looking through the photos, I could almost hear the melodies, bustle of the streets and smell the familiar scents again from the trip.

Although I was only in London for two days, it was a blast meeting new friends, walking the streets and of course playing Tchaikovsky's overture in front of Parliament.

I miss Nice, the water, the air, the food. The entire trip was magical and I truly can't wait to go back.

The blog has been quiet over the past couple months and that's because I've been training, working and neglecting my camera.

It's nice to be back.
Chow.

The Sweet and Heavy: Weighlifting Competition Photo Diary

2013-04-21T13:12:00.001-07:00

"Professional athletes are in many ways our culture’s holy men:

They give themselves over to a pursuit, endure great privation and pain, to actualize themselves at it and enjoy a relationship to perfection that we admire, reward and love to watch.

Even though we have no desire to walk that road ourselves…." ~David Foster Wallace

While many of us that train in a specific practice, aren't professional athletes, we can bare witness and revel in the time, pursuit, pain and disciplines that lead up to that rewarding glory that takes place in just those magnificent few seconds of success.

Last year, I wrote about how "it's that moment right before the curtain opens, before the action takes place, that is the most humbling and strengthening all at the same time.

...the split second before the gunshot or before you even put your hands on the barbell, that truly sets the pace for what will happen next." The true moment of greatness.

Yesterday, behind the camera, I got to get up close and see these moments happen, but experience more of the atmosphere surrounding the athlete, prior to them even walking up to their curtain call.

It was humbling, witnessing the power of support, confidence in solidarity, humility in both success and failure, and knowing that whether these athletes left with a medal or just their pride in personal achievements, they'll still wake up tomorrow and continue to train and apply discipline to their practice.

People always ask me, "why weightlifting?", and while there are other sports I love and will add to my training regimen, there's something about the grit and focus surrounding moving something incredibly heavy, that is gratifying, freeing, confidence driving and in many ways stands as a metaphor for succeeding in many other things in life. Ultimately.. not being lazy haha. AND IT'S FUN

More important than the practice itself, what I admire most is the dedication and progress that some people make, and how a few them, seem to make the impossible quite possible.

These are a few of my favorite photos from yesterday, I'll upload the rest soon enough. Ahh the joyful pains of having too many to sort through :)

Like the poptarts last year, this year more sweetness magically appeared with some amazing chocolate chip cookies.

Happy Sunday.

Featured in the photos
Fortius Weightlifting
Squat More Weightlifting

Chaplos, a New Neighbor

2013-03-18T16:49:00.000-07:00

It seems that my favorite frequent dining habitats, become so as a result of fortunate accidental discoveries.

When I moved out of Hillcrest and into Downtown, it wasn't so much leaving my old place that made me feel sad, but it was leaving all the great places we'd walk to for great food, like Au Revoir (probably the best French restaurant in SD) I discovered Chaplos, similarly to how I did Au Revoir. One intended direction, diverted by an interesting sight in the window, in this case a giant floating spoon, and that was it.

SO! Imagine my surprise when I sat down at Chaplos and saw one of my favorite people from Au Revoir now working there, my darling Marie from Bordeaux. I heard her voice behind our table, turned and nearly yelped her name. Hugs, talks, smiles all exchanged and then it was on to the food.

I've actually waited to dine here a few times before writing about it.

There's something quite bizarrely interesting about Chaplos, the decor is brilliantly well designed, but the atmosphere completely changes from the front of the restaurant to the back.

Some of what we've ordered over the past few times. Lamb chops, Ceviche, Calamari, Fries, Hanger Steak, Clams/Mussels, Asparagus wrapped in Prosciutto, Pork ribs, eggplant flatbread, the house wine and sangria. I think the Lamb chops and the Ceviche are their two standout dishes.

I usually request sliced lettuce to have the ceviche on and it tastes better than the chips. I would avoid the Sangria (Cafe 21 and Cafe Sevilla are better), the asparagus was overcooked and the bue cheese is overpowering, and the pork ribs are melt off the bone good, but I think i'll get much less sauce next time.

I still haven't decided if this place is my beloved stomping ground yet (like Au Revoir was), because each visit has been quite different.

The first time, the lamb and other meats were perfectly cooked, the second and third time, we had to send dishes back because they overcooked or burnt them.

Most of the staff are incredibly nice. I think the only awkward moment we had, was when we were paying one day and working out a discrepancy on the bill, the man who works the bar, walked over and firmly reminded us that they were closing, then walked away.

Despite the overcooked meat, overall I really like this place though. There's something about it that has me saying "I'll check it out again."

Chasing Blues: Cafe 21

2013-03-09T13:13:00.001-08:00

I've been finding lately that when my first impressions of a restaurant aren't quite so impressive, for some reason the second time around is quite the charm.

Friends and I gathered to Cafe 21, a few weeks prior, for Sunday pre-rager noms and while I loved the atmosphere, the house Sangria and the amazingly friendly staff, the food I had just felt like sustenance.

You know when food is just food for energy, but it doesn't quite hug your soul or make you experience something momentarily magical or memorable?

Fortunately, on another Sunday, when the clouds were out and the pitter patter of rain drops started matching the steps of my feet, I was right by Cafe 21, and a glass of Sangria sounded quite nice.

They had a special menu with a new item on it, ground lamb and turkey wrapped in Chard. There's this host there who's always so charming, funny and friendly. When I told him I couldn't have dairy, he suggested their house pesto and salsa to pair the dish with.

It was a beautiful meal.

I love when the food stars align. The playlist, the food, the staff, the seat and the whole experience, was just what I needed as a "pick me up" on that sub-par gloomy day.

with noms,
Chow.

Noms for the Mind

2013-03-03T16:55:00.001-08:00

Sometimes I get so regimented in my routines with training and working, that I forget that a little playtime feeds the mind and soul, like a good meal does my tummy.

My girlfriends and I bought a Livingsocial deal for aerial yoga, and it's taken me months to schedule a session because I always feel like time doing other things, takes away from time where I could be lifting.

My usual lazy Sunday morning started out more hectic than usual, and I almost didnt go, but I'm so glad I did.

Like a glass of wine or a yummy dessert, on this day, floating upsidedown, swinging in the air, stretching while suspended and being nestled in a hammock was just what was needed.

The Yoga Factory in Hillcrest has one of the nicest and relaxing studios I've been too.

Happy Sunday, and happy nomming!

Fishy Funny Friends

2013-03-02T12:58:00.001-08:00

If breakfast is the most important meal of the day, then there's no reason why it shouldn't also be the yummiest one.

Eggs, waffles, and the miraculous bacon are great, but when your favorite fish monger messages you on Facebook letting you know that Yellowtail collars are in... you jump out of bed and prep for a seafood morning feast. (Hello Kitty PJs and all)

It's been a while since I've visited Catalina Offshore Products and man have I missed out. They've remodeled, redecorated the kitchen station, and vamped up how they display their seafood selection.

Whenever I visit, I always hunt down Tommy to say hi, then I pow wow around the cooking station, catching up with Chef Ken, getting new recipes and being the first in line to taste the fresh fish he cooks up.

One visit to Catalina and you'll know why you can never buy seafood at Costco or anywhere else again.

What we picked up: Live Ama Ebi WITH ROE!!!, fresh caught oysters, salmon fillet, bay scallops, Yellowtail collars and lots of love.

We just got done shucking the oysters, which tasted incredible. Thank you Chef Ken for the awesome shucking knife.

On my list to do, get his curry and papaya salsa recipe.

Happy Eating!

omnomnoms,

Chow.

Dinner With Frank

2013-02-28T16:32:00.000-08:00

There are a few rituals that I hold quite sacred and eating is definitely one of them. I'm all about the experience, sensations and details, when it comes to the eating ceremonies, from when I start cooking, to when I sit down and take the first bite.

Last night we finally got to grilling and roasting some lamb and chicken that has been marinading for 48 hours and man I'm going to make a conscious effort to be patient and allow for proper marinading time from here on forth.

The layers of flavors were amazing.

The lamb'sicles were bathed in a blend of olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt and pepper, and the chicken in balsamic vinegar, honey and soy sauce. I got the easy and amazing idea for the lamb from another foodie pal from "Dinner With Friends."

As I was preparing my dish, Frank Sinatra's "Come Fly With Me" came on, and it was the perfect soundtrack to a wonderful meal.

So after a night of training, before an evening of more work, there was a nice little vacation with different flavors.

Come on fly with me, we'll float down in the blue......

Cooking With Love

2013-02-24T23:02:00.001-08:00

When in Paris.... you eat like you're in Paris. Sometimes that means Croissants for breakfast, pastries for lunch, pate for dinner with four baguettes and did I mention Croissants?

But one can only live off dough and coffee for so long.

I'm finally settled into the new place, NO that does not mean all the boxes are unpacked, but that means my main love, the kitchen, is all set up for making some magic! For those thinking about other magic.. get your mind out the gutter, this isn't that kind of blog :P

For some reason, eating clean again and focusing on lifting/training, is a big catalyst for me to pour more thought into my cooking and really get creative to make some wonderful eats.

I picked up these Paleo waffles from Cavegirl Confections and they're the perfect English muffin replacement. I re-toasted them with some coconut oil on the pan, fried up an egg, added some bacon and paired with some RAWRberries (chow talk for strawberries) and some of her dark chocolate granola. It was a pretty scrumptious breakfast.

We spent a lot of the weekend enjoying some espresso on the balcony, while listening to jazz and just basking in the marvelousness of doing nothing.

After a massive Sunday of errands, I wanted to spend the evening making some good eats for the next few days.

What was cooked up? Hainan chicken (poached), the stock was then turned into a soup and I added these seaweed/yam Shirataki noodles (grain/gluten free), marinaded some lamb for grilling tomorrow and best of all W. made his epic garlic sauce.

Although the prospect of a new home is always exciting, moving is a miserable experience... and unpacking is even worst.

I can't describe how lovely it is to be able to cook up noms now.

Noms is love and to love is to noms.
Happy Sunday!

Espresso for One

2013-02-17T11:05:00.005-08:00

Lazy Sunday mornings are one of my favorite times during the week.

Where the soreness from a week of training is still apparent but feels much better, and I get to sit on the couch by the window and listen to some Led Zeppelin, while enjoying my coffee.

2013 feels like a rapid chaotic trip playing in slow mo. So much has happened yet other tasks, like unpacking and training consistently, seems to be taking forever to get started.

For now I'll enjoy my salted grapefruit and enjoy some more quiet time before going about my day.

Cheers.

PS I miss football

Intermission

2013-01-27T23:56:00.000-08:00

Unlike and like many, I chose to skip the New Years resolutions. Instead I set this intention of consistency, to continue the practices and routines I had disciplined, except to execute them better.

The countdown was a formality and the first of the month...just another day to either lift a barbell, work on a design and/or stay on top of the many minute tasks that I seem to always procrastinate on. (I like to call procrastination, a higher level of patience towards completion)

That's the funny thing about a plan to not make plans, just like regular plans, the details can always change.

Fast forward through 27 days and I've now arrived at this corner, somewhat unraveled, unsure and unnerved as to how to take the next few steps.

What's nice though, is while I won't teleport or be carried through what's to come, I'm thankful to have good company to walk with. Great..now I'm a "Footprints" poem on a bookmark.

This next inevitable step is one that I've taken before, yet it never gets easier. Saying goodbye to a loved one.

Looking back on an older entry I wrote when experiencing a loss, I find myself holding onto many of the same sentiments. http://www.thedailychow.com/2011/04/48-hours.html

My posts are rarely this few and far between, but I've found myself at a lost for words as of late. Every so often though, an intermission usually leads to inspiration...

till then much love!

Chow.

Unpacking Postcards, Closing Out 2012

2012-12-30T15:03:00.000-08:00

Man oh man, what a year it's been! Sorting through photos, unpacking remnants of travel items, looking at my training log, going through projects and trying to remember each detail in order by looking through my Google calendar has me in an "OMFGWTFBBQSAUCE" type whirlwind.

I can't believe it's been that good and crazy of a year...

In no particular order, these are some postcards from travels of 2012.

This year was a huge turning point in so many ways, lifting gains, amazing work projects, meeting new people, learning about new foods, living out of my suitcase and just incredible memories made with friends, family and ❤.
A biggest thank you to all the friends/readers for following the blog for another year.

Wishing all of you the best possible 2013 and HUZZAH we survived and triumphed over another year.

L'Ovale a Meaty Oasis

2012-12-05T19:05:00.000-08:00

When I walked into the restaurant to find that it's named, themed and designed after the shape of a football, I knew I was in for an interesting dining experience.

The funny thing is that aside from the "oval" reference, L'Ovale serves up pure French cuisine, with a classic warm ambience and that sidewalk dining that is seen everywhere, no sports references at all.

Dining in Paris has been a complete hit or miss. One day it was amazing curry chicken street crepes and beautiful coffee, the next it was over priced roasted chicken that went down like sandpaper.

So for our first night in Nice, all I wanted was a great unique experience with honest food to comfort the soul.

L'Ovale did all of that and more.

My french is still rough, so ordering is always a fun mystery box experience. Thank goodness when it comes to languages, I pick up food terms first and there's epic camera apps like "World Lens" to help with the more complex translations and getting a slightly better idea of what I'm going to get.

We ordered one Proscitto appetizer (called jambon here), the Charcuterie board of cured meats and Foie Gras from our prefix menu selection.

When each of these items came out, our eyes and jaws opened wide in joyful disbelief.

It was like a small glimpse at what it must be like to sit at Thor's table, in Asgaard, for lunch. Geeky reference, I know, but I always allude to his epic table flip in the movie that and/or reference eating like a Viking or Thor.

Usual charcuterie boards have a few sample slices of a few selections.

Our board came out with multiple tangled links of cured Salami, pig head cheese (not cheese spread but more a gelatin like deli meat made from various parts of the head), 2 types of pâté, a cured sausage made from beef liver/kidney and another liver like spread I couldn't make out.

When we asked "umm do we eat all this?" our server mentioned to freely cut and eat what we want. What we don't finish of the salami, they take back.

The prosciutto came out on a big plate with salad and balsamic reduction dressing.

The Foie gras, never been an obsession of mine, was quite the generous amount.

Oh and all served with a fresh baked baguette.

This by the way was before our main dinner.

Dinner was equally as incredible. I had the beef carpaccio with a pesto sauce over mixed greens and W. ordered the Cassoulet (duck, lamb, sausage) and it was the best I've ever had. They had this crisp crust over the entire dish that just gave the savory beans, the perfect amount of texture.

The servers were friendly, they play great music, their pricing is beyond fair and the food is really fantastic.

Oh and their expresso is nicely deep, rich and bold.

Man I'm going to miss French coffee when I go back home.

The plan, to probably eat here almost every day and try different dishes.

One of the things I love most about dining in France is that the ceremony of eating is about enjoying the experience of the food. I love that servers don't touch the plate or even bring out the next dish till you're done.

Our hotel is right on the coast and walking distance to the main square, where they're having a grand Noel festival, and to lots of great eats.

It's been less than a day here and I'm already in love. The pace is slower than Paris, the architecture is classic, yet they have amazingly modern public transportation and the festive decor everywhere has my holiday spirits singing.

It's 4am and my sleeping patterns have been awful.

Time to try to zzzz. Happy nomming.
Chow

Hello

2012-12-02T10:37:00.000-08:00

I danced on the bridge, over the river yesterday evening, to the lights of Paris and the view of the Eiffel tower.

Just like in NYC, Parisians are unphased by a little bit of dancing craziness.

Whenever I travel, I've never been the type to wake early, jam pack the day with plans and try to see everything I can. If anything we've been sleeping in, walking slow and spending lots of time sitting in random places to drink a little Vin Chaud (hot wine), eating more street food and enjoying people watching.

I'll upload the dancing video when I can add the appropriate song.

It's off to more walking, taking pictures, eating and finding the Le Pont des Arts bridge.

Side note, after eating salami and chorizo from a butcher that cures his own meat, even the grocery packaged salami was paltry in comparison.

It already feels like Christmas here, not because of the Noel street market or the typical abundance of store marketing, but just the lights, sounds and crisp air make it feel festive.

Cheers!
I can't wait to load the slr cam photos.

Postcards from Paris: All In

2012-12-01T01:18:00.000-08:00

Day 1 was quite amazing, fun and ramdom.

My first experience in France? Getting into a physical altercation with a crooked cabbie, trying to hold our luggage hostage because we were refusing to pay the full amount, due to him taking us on a crazy detour. Thank goodness for GPS and Google maps, oh and weightlifting, because there was no way he was going to get my luggage from my grip of death, without being checked into the wall and tossed aside by us.

Our hotel is situated in a nice area, less than .5mi from Bastille and it's not a touristic area at all.

We learned that at 10am and within our 10 city blocks, a petits déjeuner (small lunch) is quite small, a coffee, croissant and juice.

Solution? Walk into a random Middle Eastern bar for beers. The guy there was cool, when we asked if he served food, he told us to go pick up some from the bakery and bring it back.

Every bakery here looks delicious and I almost drooled over the giant macarons. I also picked up some great cured meats at the local butcher. That's another great thing here, there are lots of small corner stores selling fresh meats, rotisserie chickens, seafood and veggies.

I walked in and it was such a charming experience listening to the butcher talk to the woman in front of me, grabbing her usual.

My french is quite rusty, so it was funny when I asked for a bit of salami and he replied "which I have 5..."

We ate, drank and slept for most of the day, then spent the evening along the various streets surrounding the main loop of Bastille.

Highlights, crepes at a carnival like street vendor, getting a giant Paris lollipop, having a 2.5 hour dinner, making friends with 2 Italians, and finding ourselves at a Jamaican bar playing awesome French reggae music.

Today we'll head closer to the river, check out the Christmas market, take pictures and try to find more street food.

I shouldn't be surprised, but I can't help marveling at how stylish and chic Parisians are. Men with their tailored blazers, cashmere scarves and varying slim fit trousers, women with their wool coats, cute boots and dresses.

It's chilly but not as cold as people think. I find it utterly charming that even in December, people sit outside with their wine and friends to laugh and chat.

Paris really is the city of love, everywhere we walk people openly express their affection for one another and it's quite beautiful.

Cin cin! Till next time...
Chow. ❤

A Smoking Goat Pre Thanksgiving Dinner

2012-11-24T15:36:00.001-08:00

This is one of those amazing little semi hidden places that had me wondering, why the hell it took me so long to finally try the food.

A few fellow foodie friends raved to me about the bone marrow, knowing it's my favorite, but alas the night we went it wasn't on the menu.

I like an ever changing menu though, so I'll just have to check back in often.

The place has this charming rustic feel and there's an open kitchen in the dining area of the second room. I love when chefs and restaurants have that transparency and allow for everyone to see heat and magic that takes place while preparing the meal.

It makes for a more inviting and intimate dining experience and creates this extended connection to the food.

What we ordered:
Veal sweetbreads (good but not quite as good as Au Revoir's)
The ribeye steak
Quail over spinach and stuffed with wild rice (AMAZING)
Cassoulet (a bowl with a medley of duck, lamb, sausage and more)

It was a nice dinner before flying out and having more noms of Thanksgiving proportions.

I hope everyone has had a great Thanksgiving weekend. There's been a lot of driving, sights, sounds and food. Tomorrow we head into downtown San Francisco and spend our last couple days there.

Yann Sweet Somethings

2012-11-15T17:16:00.005-08:00

When it comes to gifts, it really is the thought that counts... especially when your friends think about great things that they'd love for you to try and eat.

I'm not a big dessert person and I most definitely have more of a savory tooth, than that of a sweet one. I do however appreciate unique treats.

While I was in Calgary, my good friend clued me into a "Haute Patisserie" by the name of Yann and he swore by their Macarons. He picked me up some and before even opening the chic, wood textured package, I was in love.

As a designer, I have a huge appreciation for people who put thought into the presentation of their goods. It adds to the experience and we do eat with our eyes first.

From the array of flavors my favorites were the Rose & Lychee, Orange Blossom & Grand Marnier, Irish Coffee and Pistachio. <3 div="div" nbsp="nbsp">

Visit Yann here
http://yannboutique.com/

a Little Sugar in My Bowl: Edmonton, Canada

2012-11-09T16:30:00.000-08:00

I think Nina Simone was onto something when she sang about a "bit of sweetness down in her soul." It was a brisk winter day in Canada and a few of us tucked into a small bar/restaurant to catch up, have a couple drinks and share some laughs, while watching the snow fall.

I think the gentle snowfall and white landscape is what added charm to this semi hipster yet cottage like place. The wood furnishings, close up rock concert photos adorned on the wall, open kitchen and well stocked bar was perfectly cute and cozy. You know, the type of place you want to spend the afternoon away in.

It was exactly the charming atmosphere that had me torn between ordering coffee or having a beer. Fortunately, good friends share.. so I had both :)

What came highly suggested and something I always have to order, when I see it on a menu, is the chicken and waffles. The waffles were divine. Slightly crisp upon biting, the batter was nice and sweet and the inside warm and fluffy. The maple butter, a bit dense and sweet but a fork drizzle amount, was tasty.

The chicken.. ahh the chicken.

I wanted it to be good, I wanted to love it, and it wasn't bad but just not quite there. The batter was quite scarce on the chicken breast, and I'm a firm believer that chicken and waffles should always have either the whole chicken or at least the legs. It was also a bit dry. I was also unsure what to do with the vegetables, as putting maple butter on a spring mix salad would be dense and awkward.. and I wouldn't really pair it with the waffles.

Now the lamb burger, that was something else. Flavorful, not too gamey (although we like that) and perfectly cooked. I didn't eat the bun, but tasted the patty. The person who ordered said, it may very well be one of the best lamb burgers he's tried.

This was one of those places that I'd love to go back to, especially for the waffles and atmosphere. Their beer selection was impressive and house coffee not too bad either.

I'm off to another city this weekend, so follow my twitter for updates on noms and fun. Happy Friday and when I'm back, I'll post the remaining NYC travel diary, a few more from Canada and hopefully a few local SD restaurants before taking off again.

NYC Photo Diary: MOMA'ing Around

2012-11-06T00:22:00.000-08:00

I've been told that when it comes to travels, I'm not good at sticking to the plan. I'd like to believe though, that it's not due to a lack of regard for time established events, but more so due to that when I'm in another city, I like to let the day dictate how things will transpire.

I always seem to meet the most amazing people and stumble upon the coolest adventures when I'm trying the least to dictate what I should see.

On my second last day in NYC, I took the F train to 57th and decided that I would spend the day around and at the MOMA moseying around.

The museum wasn't open till around 10, so I plugged in my headphones, listened to music and with a bounce in my step, danced around the area while snapping pictures.

That's the cool thing about New York, you can sing & dance your heart out, act a fool and no one really minds or cares that you're crazy.

After a couple hours of checking out the art, hunger kicked in and I ended up at "The Modern" at a small table by the bar.

What was intended as a quick bite and some water, turned into a 2.5hour afternoon of beautiful conversation with the couple next to me. They work in the fashion industry as purveyors of bespoke designs and were so incredibly charming and free spirited.

Over the course of a few Manhattans (seriously one of the best I've had in quite some time), an amazing spicy steak tartare with a quail egg and a delightfully fresh salmon dish, we laughed, shared heartfelt stories, became inspired and most importantly.. connected in a city that most people stereotype as unfriendly.

After the wrapping up the MOMA, I headed over to the top of the Rock to do a handstand and watch the sunset.

Just another small epic part of my trip to NYC. As always more to come.

Fire Kirin: Front Row to Where the Magic Happens

2012-11-02T08:43:00.000-07:00

I've come to find that love and passion for any particular thing, especially something as enjoyable as food, can sometimes lead to a bit of snobbery.

We/I fall victim to predisposed notions of what makes certain foods authentic and stereotypes of how certain dining experiences should be.

I've often shied away from restaurants who's menu is described by the combination of words, contemporary and Chinese. Mostly because in my experience, contemporary often means upscale and when this is combined with Chinese food, for some reason the flavors seem.. dare I say.. un-authentic?

But this is what eating is all about, because once in a while you find that one place that takes what you "think you know about food" and turns it around.

While visiting Calgary, Canada, a fellow noodle enthusiast (whom I often hunt for restaurants serving home made noodles with) suggested Fire Kirin. If you call 2 hours ahead of time (because home made noodles are not on the menu), the chef can personally prepare hand pulled noodles for you.

I was lucky enough to be invited back into the kitchen to watch Chef Ken work his magic first hand. He had the dough made, where he then rolled it out, added oil and then began pulling, tossing and stretching the dough in the most beautiful ways.

There were quite a few shots I missed just because I was so enamored with the fluidity of the movement. More than anything though, what I loved witnessing and what these pictures don't capture enough, is the Chef's joy and love for what he does. While working the dough, he shared stories of his noodle making days and various expositions he's done.

In addition to the noodles (which came with the most incredible sauce), we ordered a soup, Luc Lac beef dish, green beans and lamb skewers (which were my second favorite). He surprised us with a delightful treat, a lychee gelatin dessert.

In comparison to all of the home made noodles I've ever tried, the sauce on this dish is probably ranked the best, I would have liked if the noodles were thicker/firmer, but that's all based on personal preference.

The pricing at this restaurant is fairly reasonable and the decor and lighting make for a chic and ambient atmosphere.

What I experienced that night is what made me fall in love with eating/blogging in the first place. Going beyond just the walls and tables of a restaurant and really getting to know the people behind the food, discovering their passion and appreciating their craft.

Fire Kirin
#500-12101 Lake Fraser Dr. SE
Calgary AB, T2J-7G4

PizzArte: NYC Diary Prologue

2012-10-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to believe that there are very few things that good eats and a nice glass of wine can't make better.

Finally finishing sorting through my NYC photos, my biggest trouble is deciding how to share all of it (I disklike the typical Facebook photo dump). There's enough content for at least 5 blogs, based on just food alone. So the next few will highlight some of my favorites and then I'll post a massive photo diary, like I did for Chicago.

PizzArte! This was one of those unintentionally visited places. *note plan for this day was to see a friend, visit the MOMA and then go to the ballet, all plans derail* Getting off the train on 57th, I found myself amidst a giant flea market and meeting with an old friend for a quick lunch.

Looking for a place to eat, I saw this chic, two story place, with a catchy name. In we went. The modern decor, Italian speaking folks and beautiful bar definitely set the mood for a nice lunch over wine.

Sadly my friend had already eaten and was sick, but that just meant more for me, huzzah! What was ordered:
- Bruschetta with truffle, cherry tomatoes, greens and Prosciutto (AMAZING!)
- Pollipetti Alla Luciana (baby octopus, Sicilian capers and Gaeta Olives (one of the most tender octopus dishes I've ever had)
- Cavatelli con Piselli (home madepasta with green peas and pancetta) Have I mentioned I'm a sucker for home made noodles?

The food was reasonably priced for what you receive and the quality of the ingredients. I love random discovered good eats.

In typical fashion I made friends with the table behind us, a New York author who writes about pups and loves her dog, and a Norwegian fellow fitness buff.

That's the next best thing about travelling, meeting new people and creating conversation over eating.

Sending love from the cold north

Chow.

Sweat, Iron, Pop Tarts and Pizza

2012-10-21T11:36:00.005-07:00

Have you ever stepped right to the edge of something that both excited, calmed and terrified you all at the same time?

Whenever I speak to performers, athletes, competitors of sorts and adrenaline junkies, it's that moment right before the curtain opens, before the action takes place, that is the most humbling and strengthening all at the same time. Often times, it's that split second before the gunshot or before you even put your hands on the barbell, that truly sets the pace for what will happen next.

I like to think of this second, as the true moment of greatness.

I went to an Olympic competition yesterday to shoot and support fellow lifters move massive iron, where I got to witness a lot of these making and breaking moments take place.

As usual I have a massive amount of photos to sort through, but my favorite ones are the ones that captured the intensity the athlete had with the bar, just moments before even attempting to move it.

Watching some of the individuals lift was like pure poetry. Their rhythmic breathing breaking the silence of the room, chalk falling from their hands, sometimes a little prayer and then the last bit of tension being pulled out of the bar before the big explosion.

Drive Pop PUNCH as my coach would say :)

I'm not sure if it's pure coincidence or not, but every time the lifters get together, a box of pop tarts magically appears. During the break I got to noms down some pizza and wings at Pizza Port.

Just finished the breast cancer 5k and a fun burpee box jump WOD, time to go eat, but I wanted to share a few of my favorite moments. The rest of the photos, NYC posts and more to come.

Much love, happy NFL Sunday

Chow.

shout out to my favorite online place to hang out. Lift Big Eat Big!

p.s
I'm so bummed that photo #13 is so badly composed w/ his hands cut off. This pic actually happened by accident when I was adjusting the settings and hit the shutter. But his expression was so epic, I had to include it.

Frenemies, Football and Food - Postcards from Chargers vs Broncos

2012-10-17T00:57:00.000-07:00

I've been told many times that "some people will just never get along." Especially when it comes to sports. In fact, at times it feels as if the borders that separate the fans of different sports teams, are even more vast than those that separate countries.

Other times, all it takes are a few drinks, a bucket of popcorn and the same burning fury of passion for a particular sport, to make friends among enemies. In this case, a few Broncos, Vikings and Charger fans.

After a heavy dose of NFL AM, Sportscenter and NFL All Access, my poor little heart can no longer handle re-living how yesterday's game went. Despite watching my team epic fail, I had a great time.

Conversations of food, travel & other sports thrived, in-between the incessant amounts of "OMFG, OMG" and profanities being yelled.

Some of my favorite moments included seeing the team kneel in the endzone praying and gathering thoughts before the game, the planes flying by right after the national anthem, the endless popcorn, fellow fans showing team spirit nearby and the teams kneeling with one another after the game.

After a long lineup to take the train home, we ended the night ranting about football and enjoying Thai food.

NYC is still being edited and will probably be multiple posts because there was just so much goodness there.

Happy Day and I still love my Chargers.