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		<title>‘World’s Most Expensive’ Beer Tasting in Las Vegas</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/worlds-expensive-beer-tasting-las-vegas</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/worlds-expensive-beer-tasting-las-vegas#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:40:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Baltika Lager]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Delirium Tremens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trappist Westvleteren 12]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trappist Westvletern 8]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?p=2512</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This is generally agreed to be the world's best beer.  And due to limited supply and restrictions on resale, it's most expensive.  Well, I got to taste it for myself.


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<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/grilled-beer-chicken' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilled Beer Can Chicken-Easy Dinner Party Recipe'>Grilled Beer Can Chicken-Easy Dinner Party Recipe</a></li>
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<p>John is a beer aficionado.  He drinks a lot of beer, goes to beer tastings and reads about beer.  Which is why I wasn&#8217;t surprised when he told me that he was expecting a shipment of the world&#8217;s rarest &amp; best beer for a private beer tasting.</p>
<div id="attachment_2586" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2215.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2586" title="IMG_2215" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2215-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Trappist Westvleteren 12</p></div>
<p>The Trappist Westvleteren 12 is regarded by many as &#8220;The Holy Grail of  Beers&#8221;, as it is not only just about impossible to buy, but also  is considered  the best beer in the world.  The beer is brewed by Trappist monks, and is  one of only seven Trappist beers in existence. Six of those Trappist  brews are widely available, Westvleteren being the rarest. The beer is so rare, that it is only available for (legal) sale in  Belgium, at two places: the abbey where it&#8217;s brewed or at the cafe<a href="http://www.sintsixtus.be/eng/claustrum.htm"> </a>across the street, which the abbey owns.   John bought this beer from a third party who bought it at the monastery.   Later on, as I read about the beer&#8212;I found out that you&#8217;re not supposed to resell this stuff.  Oh well&#8230;&#8230;</p>
<div id="attachment_2568" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2192.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2568" title="IMG_2192" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2192-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Evening&#39;s Tastings</p></div>
<p>They had 3 other beers at the tasting, besides the &#8216;piece de resistance&#8217;&#8212;&#8211;one was a Baltika #9 Extra Lager from Russia,  a Delirium Tremens which is a strong, pale ale from Belgium &amp; a Westvleteren #8.</p>
<div id="attachment_2570" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2193.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2570" title="IMG_2193" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2193-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Ready to Taste</p></div>
<p>They tried the Baltika first planning to work their way from worst to best.  Or cheapest to most expensive.  Since I was the photographer, I got to taste each one they opened.</p>
<p>I thought the Baltika was just OK.  Very strong at 8% alcohol (remember typical American style beers &#8211;think Coors&#8212;are about 4 %)  with almost a kick to it like Russian vodka.  Corn, malt, yeasty flavors along with a sweetness that was off-putting.  At least to me.</p>
<div id="attachment_2569" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2202.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2569" title="IMG_2202" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2202-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Baltika #9 Extra Lager</p></div>
<p>After the Russian lager, which they finished I have to add, they went for the first Trappist beer.</p>
<p>The Westvleteren #8 .</p>
<div id="attachment_2571" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2209.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2571" title="IMG_2209" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2209-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Westvleteren #8</p></div>
<p>When I got to taste it&#8212;I could see what all the fuss was about.  Lots of malt, a beautiful walnut color and just a hint to brown sugar sweetness.  Wow,  this would be a beer to sip slowly, not chug.  Really good.  And another one at 8% alcohol&#8230;.but so different in taste from the Russian beer.</p>
<div id="attachment_2572" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2205.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2572" title="IMG_2205" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2205-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Main Event</p></div>
<p>The evening&#8217;s grand finale was the Westvleteren #12.  The Delirium Tremens was not even opened because by this time they had so much alcohol in their systems&#8212;downing 1 more beer before the best of the evening would have been a waste for the #12.</p>
<p>This was a dark, creamy beer.  Some call it the &#8216;Holy Grail&#8217; of all beers.  I don&#8217;t know because I&#8217;ve tasted comparatively few&#8212;but, I do know #12 was my favorite.  Tasted very smooth, fruit packed, I had a hard time giving the goblet back to it&#8217;s owner.  I wish I could have had it all.  I can see why this beer has attained it&#8217;s cult status and the alcoholic kick from a 10.2 % ABV was really not that apparent.</p>
<div id="attachment_2583" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2207.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2583" title="IMG_2207" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2207-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">#12</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2585" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2208.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2585" title="IMG_2208" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2208-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">#12</p></div>
<p>The color is beautiful.  This was a eye-opening, palate expending beer tasting that probably, due to the high cost (I think they split the $150 cost)&#8212;won&#8217;t be repeated soon by this trio of beer lovers.</p>
<p>But the memory of that #12 lingers&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;..</p>
<div id="attachment_2738" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/IMG_2213.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2738" title="IMG_2213" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/IMG_2213-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">skål!</p></div>


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</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Grimaldi’s Pizzeria in Las Vegas</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/grimaldis-pizzeria-las-vegas</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/grimaldis-pizzeria-las-vegas#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Sep 2010 20:42:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blue Moon Seasonal Draft]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grimaldi's Pizzeria]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas Pizza]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pizza]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tenaya Creek Pale Ale]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?p=2635</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Who doesn't love pizza?  So when Grimaldi's Pizzeria opened it's second location on the west side of Las Vegas....we were so there.


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<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/grilling-pizza-saturday-night-in-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilling Pizza Saturday Night in Las Vegas'>Grilling Pizza Saturday Night in Las Vegas</a></li>
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</ol>]]></description>
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<p>Grimaldi&#8217;s Pizzeria is a Brooklyn, NY based restaurant chain that makes coal fired oven pizzas with water as chemically close to New York city water as possible.  To give it that authentic &#8216;New York&#8217; taste, I guess.  So far, in Las Vegas, the best pizza, to me, is <a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?s=settlebello&amp;x=30&amp;y=10">Settebello</a> near the Green Valley Ranch casino and hotel.  But I was looking forward to Grimaldi&#8217;s because it was a lot closer to my house.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/images.jpeg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2641" title="images" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/images.jpeg" alt="" width="384" height="124" /></a></p>
<p>They had tables set up on the front outside patio but since it was 105 degrees outside we went in.  Inside,  the bar was to the left with a counter for eating and tables covered with the traditional red &amp; white Italian checks lining up to the right and in back.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2362.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2642" title="IMG_2362" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2362-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>No happy hour prices on Sunday but the beer looked pretty good.  I got a Blue Moon Seasonal Draft and John a Tenaya Creek Pale Ale ($5.00 each).  My Seasonal was dry and crisp, but with a sweet finish and John&#8217;s Tenaya Creek was spicy and citrus-y with a rich malty mouth feel.<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2366.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2643" title="IMG_2366" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2366-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>Beers in hand we ordered two salads to share,  a small Mediterranean salad ($7.00) which turned out to be large enough for two and really pretty good.  Lightly dressed with vinaigrette over crisp Romaine, Kalamata olives, Feta Cheese, cucumbers, red onion and tomatoes.  Everything very fresh.</p>
<div id="attachment_2644" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2368.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2644" title="IMG_2368" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2368-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Mediterranean Salad</p></div>
<p>Then we ordered a  Grimaldi&#8217;s House Salad (small for $5.00) which was big enough for two and came with the above mentioned Romaine, onion, tomato and roasted red pepper, mushrooms plus green olives in a vinaigrette.</p>
<div id="attachment_2646" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2370.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2646" title="IMG_2370" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2370-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Grimaldi&#39;s House Salad</p></div>
<p>This one was also very good, fresh and crisp.</p>
<p>I wanted a plain personal pizza ($9.00) to see how just the crust, cheese and sauce would taste. Very tasty, simple enough so the flavors shone and I appreciated the crispy crust.  Even this small pizza was more than I could finish so I ended up taking most of it home.</p>
<div id="attachment_2647" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2372.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2647" title="IMG_2372" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2372-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Plain &#39;Personal&#39; Pizza</p></div>
<p>John and Vic wanted meat.  Namely the large with pepperoni and sausage ($16.00).   Even though they ate a lot more of it than I ate of mine, they couldn&#8217;t finish it.   They said it was pretty good and liked the crust.</p>
<div id="attachment_2653" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_23751.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2653" title="IMG_2375" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_23751-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sausage/Pepperoni</p></div>
<p>The total bill (including iced tea for $2.50) came to $57.83.   And we took home enough pizza for another meal.  So the value was there.</p>
<p>I guess my only gripe was, although, everything was good&#8212;it wasn&#8217;t that over-the-top greatness of <a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?s=settebello&amp;x=32&amp;y=6">Settebello&#8217;s Pizza</a>.  Where I thought everything was absolutely delicious.  Good, but not great.  But, since it&#8217;s so close, I&#8217;ll definitely re-visit to try it again.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, my pizza craving is satisfied.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2373.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2652" title="IMG_2373" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2373-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>


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<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/grilling-pizza-saturday-night-in-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilling Pizza Saturday Night in Las Vegas'>Grilling Pizza Saturday Night in Las Vegas</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/raw-cafe-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Go Raw Cafe, Las Vegas'>Go Raw Cafe, Las Vegas</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Champagne Cocktails in Las Vegas</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/mary-turns-30-las-vegas-toast</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/mary-turns-30-las-vegas-toast#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 01:01:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Champagne Cocktail]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nothing Bundt Cakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Strawberry Infused Vodka]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?p=2514</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Since this was a celebration of Mary's 30th Birthday--nothing but Champagne and Cake would do.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/cocktails-chaource-lincet' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Cocktails and Chaource Lincet'>Cocktails and Chaource Lincet</a></li>
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</ol>]]></description>
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<div id="attachment_2549" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2128.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2549" title="IMG_2128" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2128-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">A Birthday Bundt Cake</p></div>
<p>One of our church&#8217;s community groups meets at our house every couple of weeks.  People gather, we discuss the morning&#8217;s sermon for an hour and then have food, drink and talk together.  It&#8217;s a lot of fun and a way for us to get to know each other better.</p>
<div id="attachment_2545" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2116.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2545" title="IMG_2116" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2116-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Waiting for Party Time</p></div>
<p>Mary is a member of our group and I heard that she was turning 30 so we decided to celebrate!  Pam brought over a Nothing Bundt Cakes, Bundt Cake and I decided to serve Champagne Cocktails with the cake as a festive way to say, &#8216;Happy Birthday&#8217;.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2118.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2551" title="IMG_2118" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2118-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>I had infused some vodka with ripe strawberries and left the infusion in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks.  The vodka had a beautiful deep pink color and fresh strawberry aroma.   The taste was pure summer.  I decided to rim the champagne flutes in the vodka and some sugar.<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2106.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2529" title="IMG_2106" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2106-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>It was easy to dip the edge of the flute in the infused vodka and then into the sugar.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2107.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2530" title="IMG_2107" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2107-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<div id="attachment_2531" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2109.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2531" title="IMG_2109" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2109-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Rolling in Sugar</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2532" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2110.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2532" title="IMG_2110" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2110-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sugar Encrusted Flute</p></div>
<p>This is what the glasses ended up looking like and then I left them out on the counter for several hours to dry.  I do this so the coating doesn&#8217;t fall off the rim as soon as someone takes a sip.  This coating, after drying, will last through several refills.  Of course, that&#8217;s supposing the drinker doesn&#8217;t lick the coating off first!</p>
<div id="attachment_2544" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_21121.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2544" title="IMG_2112" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_21121-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Finished Flute</p></div>
<p>This was supposed to be a surprise for Mary, so we set out food and drinks as we normally would:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2121.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2546" title="IMG_2121" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2121-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2129.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2547" title="IMG_2129" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2129-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>The cocktail itself was easy, I just used the same strawberry infused vodka to make the drink by pouring about 3/4 oz. of the vodka in the bottom of a flute, topping it with Champagne and garnishing the rim with a strawberry.  Here&#8217;s our Birthday girl with the cocktail in one hand and the beer she was drinking in the other.</p>
<div id="attachment_2548" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2125.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2548" title="IMG_2125" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2125-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Mary Celebrates</p></div>
<p>Some Party&#8230;&#8230;.huh?</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/cocktails-chaource-lincet' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Cocktails and Chaource Lincet'>Cocktails and Chaource Lincet</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-kona-grill' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Las Vegas&#8217; Kona Grill Special Cocktail Prices!'>Las Vegas&#8217; Kona Grill Special Cocktail Prices!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-food-blog-cocktails-charlie-palmer' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Las Vegas Food Blog does Cocktails with Charlie (Palmer)'>Las Vegas Food Blog does Cocktails with Charlie (Palmer)</a></li>
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		<title>Go Raw Cafe, Las Vegas</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/raw-cafe-las-vegas</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/raw-cafe-las-vegas#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 22 Aug 2010 16:27:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Go Raw Cafe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[las vegas dining]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Raw Food in Las Vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Raw Food Las Vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vegan Restaurants]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?p=2445</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Peace, Love and Raw, Vegan Food in Vegas.  Go Raw Cafe...delicious.


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<p>I&#8217;ve been reading about this place ever since I moved to Las Vegas.  And periodically would make a mental note to visit.  It got good reviews and  is the only raw foods restaurant probably in the entire state.  But, never did go&#8212;-.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2131.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2483" title="IMG_2131" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2131-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>Then a Groupon coupon appeared in my email for Go Raw Cafe and I bought it.  This was the impetus I needed and Friday night we drove over and pulled up in front of the restaurant.</p>
<div id="attachment_2484" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2153.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2484" title="IMG_2153" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2153-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Outside Dining at Go Raw</p></div>
<p>It&#8217;s located in the Lakes and one of them is right outside the restaurant so it&#8217;s a pretty location.  Plus I saw some tables which would be great for outdoor dining when it gets a little cooler here.</p>
<div id="attachment_2485" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2133.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2485" title="IMG_2133" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2133-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">60&#39;s Vibe</p></div>
<p>Walking into Go Raw is like taking a trip back in time to the 60&#8242;s.   Peace, Love and  Kum ba Yah.  But it&#8217;s for real here.  They mean it and you do feel peaceful, happy and relaxed after spending some time inside.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s a pretty large menu and it&#8217;s all live, vegan and organic.  Starters, Salads, Soups, Entrees Sushi, Wraps, Pizza and Smoothies, Shots and Desserts.  No flour, no sugar, no salt, no fryer&#8230;..everything advertised as living and healthy for you.</p>
<p>I really wasn&#8217;t sure how this could be that tasty.  No cocktails?  No wine or beer?</p>
<div id="attachment_2488" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2134.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2488" title="IMG_2134" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2134-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Part of the Large House Salad</p></div>
<p>Our waitress urged us to order the Go Raw House Salad because she said everyone loves it.  And she said the full order would be too much, that we should split a half order. ($7.88).  She was right.  Everybody loves it for a reason&#8212;it was delicious.  And big.  We tried but we couldn&#8217;t finish it.  Just a super fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, shredded carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes, sprouts, avocados, onion, nuts &amp; seeds.  With the house dressing.  This was so good.</p>
<div id="attachment_2499" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_21441.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2499" title="IMG_2144" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_21441-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Enchiladas, Half Portion</p></div>
<p>Vic wanted the &#8216;Enchiladas&#8217;&#8212; again, a half portion ($8.88), which were enchiladas filled with a &#8216;cheese&#8217;, salsa and guacamole and served with &#8216;sour dream&#8217;, yam rice, &#8216;beans&#8217; and flax crackers for crunch.  He said it was really great.</p>
<div id="attachment_2501" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_21381.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2501" title="IMG_2138" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_21381-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Mexi-Wrap</p></div>
<p>I had the Mexi Wrap (half portion $6.88) which was a mixture of nuts, seeds, herbs and spices filling collard green wraps.  Topped with salsa and guacamole and served with flax chips.  Unusual, different and very good.</p>
<div id="attachment_2502" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2146.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2502" title="IMG_2146" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2146-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Blueberry Cheesecake??</p></div>
<p>We were both full but I had to see what desserts would be like so I ordered a blueberry cheesecake ($6.48).  How could this, with no dairy or sugar, possibly taste good.  When the waitress brought it, I was surprised.  It looked like something I&#8217;d buy at the 7-11 in the frozen dessert case.  Well, maybe at the <span style="text-decoration: underline;">vegan</span> 7-11.</p>
<div id="attachment_2503" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2149.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2503" title="IMG_2149" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2149-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Cheesecake Side View</p></div>
<p>Then we ate some&#8230;.wow&#8230;delicious.  Creamy, sweet, berry flavors with a crust of coconut, seeds and nuts that was also so tasty.  We quickly finished it up.</p>
<p>So not only is this food excellent&#8212;but you leave feeling virtuous and healthy.  Kind of &#8216;at one&#8217; with the Cosmos.</p>


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		<title>Beef Short Ribs on a Saturday Night</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/beef-short-ribs-saturday-night</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/beef-short-ribs-saturday-night#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 2010 02:10:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA["Two Dudes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cherry Sidecar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas dinner at home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[One Pan"]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Shingleback 2003 Shiraz]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Short Ribs of Beef]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?p=2419</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Braised Short Ribs of Beef and Cherry Sidecars made a delicious Saturday night supper on the patio in Las Vegas.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/grilled-roasted-baby-ribs' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilled &#038; Roasted Baby Back Ribs'>Grilled &#038; Roasted Baby Back Ribs</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/saturday-night-pasta-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Saturday Night Pasta in Las Vegas'>Saturday Night Pasta in Las Vegas</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/grilling-pizza-saturday-night-in-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilling Pizza Saturday Night in Las Vegas'>Grilling Pizza Saturday Night in Las Vegas</a></li>
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<p>We hadn&#8217;t seen Mark &amp; Sharon for about a year, which is a poor excuse since they also live in Las Vegas (on the far east side of town), so, when we invited them for dinner Saturday night, I wanted to pull out all the stops and make our evening as special as I could.  Mark is a newspaperman, working for the Las Vegas Review Journal and <a href="http://www.sharonrandall.com/About_Sharon_Randall.html">Sharon</a> is a syndicated columnist and are both the kind of people that anyone would be happy to spend the evening with.</p>
<p>I&#8217;ve mentioned the cookbook, &#8220;<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?s=Two+Dudes%2C+One+Pan&amp;x=24&amp;y=12&amp;=Go">Two Dudes, One Pan</a>&#8221; before, and said that everything those boys make is delicious.  So, when I knew I wanted to make Short Ribs I looked it up in their book.  Slow cooking main courses are really better if you make them in advance and just let them sit and mellow in the refrigerator for a few days.  Which makes them perfect for a dinner party.  After the ribs were browned and the chopped veggies were browned in the same pan but one at a time; then everything was combined with spices and a bottle of dark beer to cook slowly in the oven.</p>
<div id="attachment_2517" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2154.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2517" title="IMG_2154" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2154-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Ready to Braise</p></div>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Here&#8217;s the menu</span>:</p>
<p><em>Puff Pastry with Gruyere &amp; Prosciutto</em> -appetizer</p>
<p><em>Crab Salad</em> &#8211; First Course</p>
<p><em>Short Ribs of Beef</em>, <em>Pain d&#8217;Epi</em> and Butter, <em>Grilled Asparagus</em> &#8211; Main Course</p>
<p><em>Fresh Strawberry Tart</em></p>
<p>Our Cocktail was a Cherry Sidecar and Mark &amp; Sharon brought two wines over to have with dinner.  The white was a Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009 and the red a 2003 Shingleback Shiraz.  We had the white with our first course and the red with the short ribs.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2226.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2522" title="IMG_2226" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2226-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>The Sidecars were so good.  Cherry infused simple syrup combined with cherry infused brandy combined with fresh lime juice.  Shaken with ice and strained into a martini glass.  Garnished with a fresh cherry and a slice  of lime.  Not too sweet, not overly strong&#8230;fresh cherry flavor with a note of lime.  Wonderful.</p>
<p>With our Sidecars we had the appetizer course.  Puff pastry spread with a little Dijon mustard, then layered with proscuitto and grated Gueyere cheese and baked.  Cheesy, salty and crisp&#8211;we finished every piece while we drank the cocktails.</p>
<div id="attachment_2558" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_22181.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2558" title="IMG_2218" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_22181-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Gruyère Puffs Baking</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2556" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_22231.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2556" title="IMG_2223" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_22231-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Gruyère &amp; Prosciutto Pinwheels</p></div>
<p>The Crab Salad was simply lump crab meat combined with chili sauce, mayonnaise, fresh chives, s &amp; p and lemon juice.   Again, simple but oh, so good.</p>
<dt class="wp-caption-dt"> </dt>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2220.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2523" title="IMG_2220" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2220-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></dt>
<div id="attachment_2524" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2227.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2524" title="IMG_2227" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2227-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Crab Salad with Avocado</p></div>
<p>The Sauvignon Blanc had citrus-y (grapefruit to me) melon flavors and was acidic enough to cut through the creaminess of the Crab Salad.  At about $20 a bottle, this was a great match.</p>
<p>For the main course, of course, the Short Ribs.  Rich and meaty with a sweet undertone from the Star Anise used in the braising liquid.  Everyone absolutely loved this.  The meat was so tender it literally fell of the bone.<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2228.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2560" title="IMG_2228" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2228-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>The Shingleback that we served with it was a strong, fruity, smoky wine.  Plenty of heft to stand up to the strong flavors of the meat.  Priced around $20 a bottle.</p>
<p>I accompanied this with asparagus that I tossed with olive oil, s &amp; p and grilled.</p>
<div id="attachment_2561" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2222.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2561" title="IMG_2222" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2222-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Grilled Asparagus</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2562" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2231.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2562" title="IMG_2231" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2231-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pain d&#39;Epi</p></div>
<p>For a starch we had <a href="http://http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?s=pan+d'Epi&amp;x=45&amp;y=3">Pain d&#8217;Epi</a> which was perfect with the sauce of the short ribs.</p>
<div id="attachment_2563" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_22351.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2563" title="IMG_2235" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_22351-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Main Course</p></div>
<p>Dessert was a Strawberry Tart and most of the components of the tart were made in advance.  I made and baked the tart crust 3 days before and just let it sit in the lower oven.  The strawberry glaze was also made 3 days before and refrigerated. To make the glaze:  I cooked strawberries and sugar together with a little cornstarch and lemon juice.  When it got thick, I strained it and let it cool.  That&#8217;s it.</p>
<p>The pastry cream was also made a couple of days ahead&#8212;just milk, egg yolks, cornstarch, sugar and vanilla.  Cook until thick:</p>
<div id="attachment_2564" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2159.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2564" title="IMG_2159" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2159-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pastry Cream</p></div>
<p>Strain and let cool.  Then refrigerate.  On the day of the dinner, just smooth the pastry cream into the tart shell, decorate the top with freshly sliced strawberries and thickly glaze.</p>
<div id="attachment_2565" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2243.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2565" title="IMG_2243" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2243-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Strawberry Tart</p></div>
<p>Strawberry Tart was the perfect ending to a perfect evening with friends.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/grilled-roasted-baby-ribs' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilled &#038; Roasted Baby Back Ribs'>Grilled &#038; Roasted Baby Back Ribs</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/saturday-night-pasta-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Saturday Night Pasta in Las Vegas'>Saturday Night Pasta in Las Vegas</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/grilling-pizza-saturday-night-in-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilling Pizza Saturday Night in Las Vegas'>Grilling Pizza Saturday Night in Las Vegas</a></li>
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		<title>Las Vegas’ Kona Grill Special Cocktail Prices!</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-kona-grill</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-kona-grill#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Aug 2010 23:39:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Absolut Pear Vodka]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Absolut Pepper Vodka]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kona Grill]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[las vegas dining]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Siracha]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[St Germain Liquor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?p=2368</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Some fantastic drink prices combined with delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere makes Kona Grill in Las Vegas a great place to go.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/lemon-pasta-bronx-cocktail' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Lemon Pasta with a Bronx Cocktail'>Lemon Pasta with a Bronx Cocktail</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-herbs-rye-happy-hour' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Las Vegas’ Herbs and Rye Happy Hour'>Las Vegas’ Herbs and Rye Happy Hour</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/drinks-las-vegas-olive-garden' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Drinks at Las Vegas’ Olive Garden'>Drinks at Las Vegas’ Olive Garden</a></li>
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<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/kona-grill-las-Vegas.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2455" title="kona grill las Vegas" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/kona-grill-las-Vegas.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a></p>
<p>Here&#8217;s another place that&#8217;s great for a Sunday after church lunch (or just for Sunday lunch if you don&#8217;t do church!).</p>
<p>Good prices on specials, great sushi and good service.<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2095.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2454" title="IMG_2095" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2095-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>We sat in the bar instead of outside on the patio where we usually want to sit&#8211;mostly because it was 110 outside and the bar was deliciously cool.</p>
<p>Best reason to go?  Great limited selection drink menu prices.  I don&#8217;t know if this is just on Sunday, or if these prices are good during the week but this was wonderful.   Pair these drink prices with good sushi at reasonable prices and this is a place you&#8217;ve got to visit soon&#8230;.!</p>
<div id="attachment_2456" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 235px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_0029.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2456" title="IMG_0029" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_0029-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Hibiscus Cocktail</p></div>
<p>Maren had hot tea, Vic had iced tea, that left me to man-up to the challenge of cocktails&#8211;and I was ready.  I ordered a Hibiscus first.  At $4.00, this cocktail was such a deal.  You can see the dried hibiscus flower floating in the bottom of the glass.  This drink was Absolut Pear vodka, St Germain liquor and sparkling wine.  It was delicious, light and refreshing with a subtle flavor and at $4.00&#8212;a real deal.</p>
<p>The sushi was all fresh tasting and very good.<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_0044.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2458" title="IMG_0044" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_0044-225x300.jpg" alt="Dragon Roll" width="225" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>They have a page of &#8216;<em>any two items for $8.25</em>&#8216; selections and that&#8217;s what Vic went for:</p>
<div id="attachment_2461" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2096.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2461" title="IMG_2096" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2096-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sushi &amp; Salad Plate</p></div>
<p>Maren and I both stuck, loyally, with the sushi.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_0049.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2462" title="IMG_0049" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_0049-225x300.jpg" alt="Spicy Bloody Mary" width="225" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>My second drink was a Bloody Mary at $3.75.  They used Absolut Pepper Vodka and Siracha hot sauce combined with Zing Zang Bloody Mary mix and it tasted great (except the last 1/8 of the drink got too spicy), garnished nicely with olives, a dill pickle spear, a lime wedge and a long, fresh stalk of celery.</p>
<p>Prices were so good&#8212;I <strong>had </strong>to try another drink.  This one was called a Vine.  For $3.75 it combined Three Olives Grape Vodka, grape syrup, lemon-lime soda and sparkling wine.  Way too sweet&#8212;tasted like a light bodied grape soda.  Next time I order this, I&#8217;ll ask that they leave off the lemon-lime soda and see if that improves it.</p>
<div id="attachment_2463" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2103.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2463" title="IMG_2103" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2103-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Vine cocktail</p></div>
<p>The Sushi was all fresh and delicious.  So was the salad.  Good food + Good prices = Return Visit</p>


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		<title>Enjoying The Yard House at Red Rock Casino</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/enjoying-yardhouse-red-rock-casino</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/enjoying-yardhouse-red-rock-casino#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Aug 2010 03:06:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chimay Triple Belgian Ale]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eating out in las vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Petrus Blond Ale]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Red Rock Casino]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Yard House]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?p=2296</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A vast selection of beer and good food make The Yard House in Las Vegas a great place to eat and drink.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/brunching-kerry-simon-palms-casinohotel' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Brunching with Kerry Simon at the Palms Casino/Hotel'>Brunching with Kerry Simon at the Palms Casino/Hotel</a></li>
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<p>I’ve eaten at The Yard House on the south end of the Las Vegas Strip at the Town Square Shopping Village and liked it a lot.</p>
<p>So when one was opened at Red Rock Casino which is really close to me on the west side of Las Vegas&#8212;I had to try it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1903.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2299" title="IMG_1903" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1903-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a></p>
<p>It was a Monday about 6 PM when we walked up to the supposed entrance inside the casino.  Well, what looks like the entrance, with a big door and a hostess station (with hostess) wasn’t.  We had to walk all the way through the crowded restaurant to the ‘real’ entrance which is off the casino parking lot/street.  Us and several others (who came in the entrance that isn’t) also.  Which is probably why The Yard House has to station an employee, the hostess at the door,  just to tell everyone coming in, that, it’s not the entrance!</p>
<p>Confusion notwithstanding&#8212;the place was packed.  On a Monday night&#8212;packed.  So we waited for a seat after telling the hostess that we’d sit anywhere inside or out.</p>
<p>Even though it’s hot in Vegas now, the temperature was pleasant outside because of the misters that were ringing the edge of the patio ceiling.</p>
<p>Hundreds of beer lines were snaking the ceiling of the restaurant and hundreds of beers taps were spewing beer at the bar.  Suddenly, I wanted a draft!</p>
<div id="attachment_2300" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1889.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2300" title="IMG_1889" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1889-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Chimay Triple</p></div>
<p>They had Chimay Triple Belgian Ale ($7.25) which I’d never had.  What a delicious beer with almost a flowery taste…still, it’s yeasty and after a couple of sips the bitterness of the hops comes through.  This was a lovely beer.</p>
<div id="attachment_2301" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1898.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2301" title="IMG_1898" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1898-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The Sliders</p></div>
<p>I ordered, from the appetizer menu, something called Bernaise Sliders ($10.45).  These were four Angus Beef mini burgers that came garnished with fried onions and a little cup of warm béarnaise sauce for pouring on the burgers or to dip the burgers in.   I did both.  The French fries on the side were crispy and delicious and a kosher dill pickle completed the plate.  Seriously good and more than filling.</p>
<div id="attachment_2303" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1895.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2303" title="IMG_1895" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1895-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Chopped Salad</p></div>
<p>Vic had the Chopped Salad ($7,95) which he loved.  It was filled with tomatoes, bacon, corn, cilantro, cucumbers, celery, onions and served with what they called a Bloody Mary vinaigrette and garnished with a half of a thinly sliced avocado.</p>
<p>After I finished the Chimay, I wanted to try something different so I ordered a Petrus Blond ($7.25).  This ale was a mild tasting light one.  This first half of the glass tasted clean &amp; sweet but the second half turned a little bitter as the beer warmed up.</p>
<div id="attachment_2304" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1902.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2304" title="IMG_1902" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1902-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Petrus Blond</p></div>
<p>So for under $40 we ate and drank well and pleasantly.  This was a great place to go &amp; drink beers that are hard to find elsewhere &amp; eat the food that is designed to taste good with those beers.  Ve&#8217;ll be baaack.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/brunching-kerry-simon-palms-casinohotel' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Brunching with Kerry Simon at the Palms Casino/Hotel'>Brunching with Kerry Simon at the Palms Casino/Hotel</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/worlds-expensive-beer-tasting-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: &#8216;World&#8217;s Most Expensive&#8217; Beer Tasting in Las Vegas'>&#8216;World&#8217;s Most Expensive&#8217; Beer Tasting in Las Vegas</a></li>
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		<title>Pulled Pork Sandwiches &amp; Blue Cheese Slaw</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 22:23:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Block #45 Pinot Noir 2008]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blue Cheese Slaw]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ina Garten]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maker's Mark]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Peach Mint Julep]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pulled Pork]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Peach Mint Juleps and Pulled Pork Sandwiches turned a hot night in Las Vegas into a 'Cool' one.


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<p>Earlier in the week I made a big pot of Pulled Pork.   Sometimes all you need to do is make one main dish and it not only inspires the rest of the menu but suggests the guests who would enjoy eating it.</p>
<div id="attachment_2431" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2087.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2431" title="IMG_2087" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2087-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pulled Pork</p></div>
<p>Case in point&#8212;the Pulled Pork.  I knew Pam &amp; Tim (who by the way makes great Pulled Pork on his own) would be those very guests.</p>
<p>Pulled Pork is simply a pork shoulder or butt that has been slow cooked (oven or crock-pot) for 7-8 hours at a low temperature until it falls off the bone.   Allow the pork to cool in the cooking liquid (it makes it’s own as it cooks), then remove the fat and hand shred the meat.</p>
<p>Then all you have to do is mix it with some bar-b-que sauce and voila…..!</p>
<p>This is the sauce I used since I didn’t want to make my own and it was fine.</p>
<p>I had some dough in the refrigerator from  the “<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?s=Sunday+Lunch+with+Friends&amp;x=21&amp;y=10&amp;=Go">5 Minutes to Artisan Bread</a>’ cookbook, so I formed that dough into rolls and baked those for our buns.<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2086.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2432" title="IMG_2086" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2086-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>Since Pulled Pork is pretty sweet, I knew I didn’t want the traditional Southern type of Cole Slaw that is also kind of sweet.  Ina Garten makes a Blue Cheese Slaw that I thought would provide the right contrast for the soft, sweet pork.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2088.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-2433" title="IMG_2088" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2088-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>I also made her sautéed <a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/grilling-pizza-saturday-night-in-las-vegas">Onion Dip </a>(which is absolutely delicious) to eat with our drinks.</p>
<p>The peaches on our dwarf peach tree were ripe and sweet&#8212;&#8211;very sweet, so I made Peach Mint Julep’s as our cocktail.</p>
<p>For one drink:</p>
<p><strong>Peach Mint Julep</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<div id="attachment_2434" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><strong><strong><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2077.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2434" title="IMG_2077" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2077-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></strong></strong><p class="wp-caption-text">Muddling</p></div>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>10 mint leaves</p>
<p>1 oz simple syrup</p>
<p>½ of a fresh peach</p>
<p>Muddle these together until well combined.</p>
<p>Strain into a cocktail shaker (or a glass bottle with a tight lid like I did), add</p>
<p>2 oz Bourbon (I used Maker’s Mark)</p>
<p>Fill shaker or jar with ice and shake until very cold.  Strain into a serving glass that is filled with crushed ice.  This makes 1 strong drink.</p>
<div id="attachment_2435" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2078.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2435" title="IMG_2078" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2078-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Peach Mint Julep</p></div>
<p>This was good, fruity, sweet, minty….but probably too sweet for my taste due to the sweetness of the fresh peach.  Next time I’ll try adding some lemon juice to put a note of sour in there.</p>
<p>I made a Caprese salad again <a href="http://http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/vegas-patio-dinner-june">(see this post</a>) for our salad course, but, after having that delicious Caprese at the Blue Martini Happy Hour, I marinated and grilled a couple of Portabello mushrooms to add to the salad.</p>
<div id="attachment_2430" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2074.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2430" title="IMG_2074" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2074-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Draining the Tomato Slices</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2426" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2073.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2426" title="IMG_2073" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2073-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Marinating the Mushrooms</p></div>
<p>And it was wonderful first course, with the reduced Balsamic Vinegar/Olive Oil dressing and fresh basil over all.</p>
<div id="attachment_2427" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2061.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2427" title="IMG_2061" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2061-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Reducing the Balsamic</p></div>
<p>We drank a Pinot Noir (a Block #45 2008 from California) and I thought this wine went well with the sweet pork and salty blue cheese flavors of the meal.</p>
<div id="attachment_2423" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2056.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2423" title="IMG_2056" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2056-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Chocolate Ganache</p></div>
<p>For dessert, all I did was make a <em>chocolate ganache</em> (equal parts chocolate &amp; heavy cream gently heated then whisked smooth) and a <em>fresh raspberry puree</em>.</p>
<div id="attachment_2424" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2059.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2424" title="IMG_2059" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2059-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Raspberry Puree</p></div>
<p>The puree was just 2 pints of fresh raspberries whirled in a food processor with 2 t. lemon juice and 4 T. sugar.  Then the sauce was strained and bottled.</p>
<p>I had some vanilla ice cream in the freezer, so I made sundaes.  Creamy vanilla with a rich dark chocolate syrup and the bright fresh flavor of the raspberry syrup.  Just a yummy ending to our summer dinner.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2081.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2425" title="IMG_2081" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/IMG_2081-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/grilled-stuffed-loin-pork' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilled Stuffed Loin of Pork'>Grilled Stuffed Loin of Pork</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/southern-shrimp-cheese-grits-tonight' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Southern Shrimp &#038; Cheese Grits Tonight'>Southern Shrimp &#038; Cheese Grits Tonight</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-happy-hour-blue-martini' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Las Vegas Happy Hour – The Blue Martini'>Las Vegas Happy Hour – The Blue Martini</a></li>
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		<title>Las Vegas Happy Hour – The Blue Martini</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-happy-hour-blue-martini</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-happy-hour-blue-martini#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:39:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blue Martini]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Happy Hour in Las Vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Town Square Shopping Center]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Mid-week Happy Hour at the Blue Martini on the south end of the Las Vegas Strip.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-herbs-rye-happy-hour' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Las Vegas’ Herbs and Rye Happy Hour'>Las Vegas’ Herbs and Rye Happy Hour</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/happy-hour-las-vegas-mastrionis' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Happy Hour at Las Vegas’ Mastrioni’s'>Happy Hour at Las Vegas’ Mastrioni’s</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/pulled-pork-sandwiches-saturday-night' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pulled Pork Sandwiches &#038; Blue Cheese Slaw'>Pulled Pork Sandwiches &#038; Blue Cheese Slaw</a></li>
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<p>The Blue Martini has been a wildly successful Happy Hour hangout since it opened in Town Square Shopping Center on the south part of the Las Vegas Strip about 2 years ago.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/blue_martini_las_vegas.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2341" title="blue_martini_las_vegas" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/blue_martini_las_vegas-300x174.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="174" /></a></p>
<p>Friends have gone there, reviews are done on it, lots of PR is done&#8212;I wanted to see what all the buzz was about.</p>
<div id="attachment_2344" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_20051.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2344" title="IMG_2005" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_20051-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Having Fun</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2342" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2006.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2342" title="IMG_2006" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2006-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Misters keeping patrons cool</p></div>
<p>I met 3 friends for drinks at 6 PM on a Wednesday.  It’s July and Las Vegas is in the 100’s , so I walked around the air conditioned inside of the Blue Martini first, looking for a table.  It was packed and noisy.  Very noisy.  So much so,  that I checked out the outdoor seating because I didn’t want to have to yell all night to make myself heard.</p>
<p>Outdoors was pleasant, due to the misters ringing the patio and pumping out gallons of water per minute&#8230;so I was bathed in mist but it was cool and kind of a fun change from the dry, dry climate.</p>
<div id="attachment_2345" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2010.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2345" title="IMG_2010" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2010-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Personal Drink Shakers</p></div>
<p>I looked at the drink list (drinks were ½ price until 8 PM) and most of them looked pretty sweet (as in lots of sugar).  The <em>Pomegranate</em> looked good , but the server said the cranberry juice was the sweetened kind, so I asked for a <em>Pomegranate</em> with just grapefruit vodka, Pama pomegranate liqueur and Citronge minus the juice.</p>
<p>It came with a sugared rim and was plenty sweet enough with the 2 liqueurs.  Fruity and strong and came with a small Boston shaker that was filled at least ½ way up with more cocktail.</p>
<div id="attachment_2346" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2011.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2346" title="IMG_2011" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2011-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pomegranate Martini</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2347" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2014.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2347" title="IMG_2014" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2014-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Skinny Bitch Martini</p></div>
<p>Roe had a <em>Skinny Bitch</em>&#8212;-stupid name&#8212;which is vodka, fresh blueberries, Truvia sweetener, lemon juice and pomegranate juice.  This drink was good!  Even with the artificial sweetener it tasted good.  Probably as a result of the fresh berries and lemon juice.</p>
<div id="attachment_2348" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2016.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2348" title="IMG_2016" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2016-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Cosmo</p></div>
<p>Lisa &amp; Christina had <em>Goose O Cosmos</em> which they re-ordered so they must have been good.</p>
<div id="attachment_2349" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2013.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2349" title="IMG_2013" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2013-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Caprese</p></div>
<p>The appetizers were OK ranging to dreadful;  with the exception being the Caprese which included a grilled Portobello mushroom with the usual tomatoes, basil and mozzarella.  It was very good and the only appetizer that I’d reorder.</p>
<p>Cheese plate was rather dreadful.  Two kind of processed cheese do not a cheese plate make.</p>
<div id="attachment_2351" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2018.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2351" title="IMG_2018" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2018-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Spinach-Artichoke Dip</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2350" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2019.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2350" title="IMG_2019" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2019-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Cheese Plate</p></div>
<p>The hot Spinach-Artichoke Dip was OK, cheesy and hot.  Not bad, just not wonderful distinct tastes.</p>
<p>The Bruschetta was not so OK.  Soft bread, lackluster toppings.</p>
<p>I left the too sweet drinks with my second martini and ordered the <em>Masterpiece Bleu</em> which was just a vodka martini with 3 blue cheese stuffed olives.</p>
<p>The bill, including tip, was $108.  This was for 8 drinks at $6 each and 4 appetizers at about $10 each.</p>
<div id="attachment_2352" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2025.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2352" title="IMG_2025" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_2025-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Bruschetta</p></div>
<p><strong>Blue Martini summed up:</strong></p>
<p><strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Pros</span></p>
<p>*Strong drinks at a reasonable price (at least during happy hour)</p>
<p>*Outdoor seating lets you get away from the noise</p>
<p>*Misters to cool things down outside</p>
<p>*Service was good</p>
<p>*Small dance floor (but, hey, at least they have one)</p>
<p>Now for the cons:</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Cons</span></p>
<p>*Lots of slutty-looking women &amp; douche-y looking men</p>
<p>*Lots of drunken screaming &amp; laughing from 1<sup>st</sup> group as evening wears on</p>
<p>*Too much noise inside the restaurant if you want a little conversation</p>
<p>*OK to just &#8216;Meh&#8217; food</p>
<p>*High off-Strip prices unless you&#8217;re there at Happy Hour</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/las-vegas-herbs-rye-happy-hour' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Las Vegas’ Herbs and Rye Happy Hour'>Las Vegas’ Herbs and Rye Happy Hour</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/happy-hour-las-vegas-mastrionis' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Happy Hour at Las Vegas’ Mastrioni’s'>Happy Hour at Las Vegas’ Mastrioni’s</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/pulled-pork-sandwiches-saturday-night' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pulled Pork Sandwiches &#038; Blue Cheese Slaw'>Pulled Pork Sandwiches &#038; Blue Cheese Slaw</a></li>
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		<title>Root Beer Chicken Wings for the Men</title>
		<link>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/root-beer-chicken-wings-men</link>
		<comments>http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/root-beer-chicken-wings-men#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jul 2010 17:59:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Susan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Banana Bread]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Men's Prayer Group]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pimento Cheese Spread]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Root Beer Chicken Wings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spring Meadows Church]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.winedinnerparty.com/?p=2167</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Spring Meadows Church Men's Prayer Group meets at our house once a month.  Praying is hard work. Guys get hungry.  Here's what they ate.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/grilled-beer-chicken' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilled Beer Can Chicken-Easy Dinner Party Recipe'>Grilled Beer Can Chicken-Easy Dinner Party Recipe</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/worlds-expensive-beer-tasting-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: &#8216;World&#8217;s Most Expensive&#8217; Beer Tasting in Las Vegas'>&#8216;World&#8217;s Most Expensive&#8217; Beer Tasting in Las Vegas</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/tex-mex-chicken-wing-dinner-party' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Tex-Mex Chicken Wing Dinner Party'>Tex-Mex Chicken Wing Dinner Party</a></li>
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<p>Each month our <a href="http://www.springmeadowschurch.org/">church’s</a> men’s prayer group meets at our house.  A time for the men to meet, share prayer requests &amp; praises with each other, pray for each other and have a time of fellowship together.</p>
<div id="attachment_2213" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1819.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2213" title="IMG_1819" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1819-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Grilling the Wings</p></div>
<p>Usually I’ll make some snacks for them and then clear out of the way for the rest of the evening.  So, the food has to be something that can be prepared in advance, tasty for a bunch of guys, finger food and food that&#8217;s easily served.</p>
<div id="attachment_2222" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1825.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2222" title="IMG_1825" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1825-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pimento Cheese &amp; Crackers</p></div>
<p>This month I made Root Beer Chicken Wings, Pimento Cheese Spread and Banana Bread with chocolate and chrystallized ginger.</p>
<div id="attachment_2214" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1817.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2214" title="IMG_1817" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1817-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Marinating</p></div>
<p>I mixed 2/3 cup of Root Beer with 1 Cup of Soy Sauce and about 4 cups of water in a large bowl and then added the trimmed chicken wings to marinate overnight.</p>
<p>The next day, I grilled them slowly at first and then when they were close to done, I basted them with a bar-b-que sauce  that was laced with minced fresh ginger and more root beer.</p>
<div id="attachment_2215" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1823.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2215" title="IMG_1823" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1823-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Sticky, Sweet &amp; Salty</p></div>
<p>The Pimento Cheese spread was easy.  Just shredded sharp cheddar, pimentos, onion powder, Worcestershire, hot sauce and pepper.  In the food processor until creamy.<a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1806.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2217" title="IMG_1806" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1806-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a></p>
<div id="attachment_2216" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1807.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2216" title="IMG_1807" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1807-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Pimento Cheese Ingredients</p></div>
<p>These were the ingredients for the Banana Bread.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1801.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2218" title="IMG_1801" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1801-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a></p>
<p>And this is what came out of the oven.</p>
<div id="attachment_2219" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1805.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2219" title="IMG_1805" src="http://www.winedinnerparty.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1805-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Banana Bread w/ Chocolate</p></div>
<p>Once everything was ready&#8212;I was free to happily disappear for the evening, content in the knowledge that the ‘guys’ were going to be well taken care of.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/grilled-beer-chicken' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Grilled Beer Can Chicken-Easy Dinner Party Recipe'>Grilled Beer Can Chicken-Easy Dinner Party Recipe</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/featured/worlds-expensive-beer-tasting-las-vegas' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: &#8216;World&#8217;s Most Expensive&#8217; Beer Tasting in Las Vegas'>&#8216;World&#8217;s Most Expensive&#8217; Beer Tasting in Las Vegas</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.winedinnerparty.com/posts/tex-mex-chicken-wing-dinner-party' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Tex-Mex Chicken Wing Dinner Party'>Tex-Mex Chicken Wing Dinner Party</a></li>
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