White Plate Special

Ruven's Restaurant & Deli Delray Beach

2012-02-08T00:23:00.000-05:00

I tried the Corned Beef/Pastrami Combo

Ruven's is in the Publix shopping center at the NE corner of Jog and Lake Ida in a spot that has been a curse to several restaurants in the past. I have had so many bad experiences in that same location that I was a little reluctant to even try Ruven's thinking that it would be more of the same.

I pulled on my big boy undies and decided I would give it a try and I have been back three more times. My first visit was encouraged by a friend who suggested I should give it a try. He said he heard a lot of good things but had never been himself.........

We had a friendly greeting and we were seated within a couple of minutes. We ordered some drinks which were promptly served along with a complimentary plate of pickles and a bowl of creamy Cole slaw.

We started with a shared bowl of Matzoh ball soup which was delicious and then moved on to some mammoth sandwiches.

I got the pastrami/corned beef combo and Michelle got an off-the-frame turkey wrap. The wrap was great especially with the cranberry sauce dressing.

The pastrami/corned beef combo was one of the largest and best tasting that I have had in this area. Good food, good service, and reasonable prices gives Ruven's my okay!

Miller's Ale House in Boca Raton

2012-02-07T23:47:00.001-05:00

I met Dale, Sherri, Joey and Dylan for a late dinner at this place a few weeks ago. No special occasion. I got there a little early and I only had to wait a couple of minutes before they arrived. They have a few high top tables and a bunch of attached booths which this fat man found way too small.

It's your typical ale house type atmosphere with the addition of a few pool tables. There was a very friendly atmosphere and I chose to wait before ordering anything until the others got there. They have an extensive menu with all the typical sports bar finger type foods with the addition of several more substantial meals including a few steak/seafood/pasta selections so it's easy to bring the family for a nice dinner out.

The place is kid friendly so Dylan and Joey both enjoyed our dinner. I ordered a hamburger and found it to be as good as you get at most places. The fries were good and I really enjoyed the Hank's Diet Root Beer which I haven't found any place else.

This place is worth the trip and I think you will enjoy it. Be sure to tell them that you read about it here.

Gamaroff's Bar and Grill

2012-02-02T12:32:00.002-05:00

Somehow when you go to a newly opened restaurant you get a feeling of whether this place is going to make it or not. When you go to Gamaroff's for the first time you will see that this is not their first rodeo. They know how to do it and how to do it right!

Gamaroff's is located in the high traffic area of Aventura/Hallandale Beach area where they are exposed to an abundance of locals as well as tourists and they know that in order to keep the highly critical local patronage they must offer good food, uncompromising service, and excellent prices. They do all three and do it beyond expectations.

A recent Saturday night had me jonesing for a new place to dine when Michelle suggested that we try Gamaroff's. She had heard several positive comments about it from patrons of her salon in Aventura. I have an aversion to waiting in lines to spend my money and the place was packed but we opted to wait the 20-30 minutes that we were told. Since we were only a party of two we were seated in about fifteen minutes in a "half-and-half." A booth on the wall and a chair on the other side of the table. Works for us!

There was a lovely couple from New Jersey on one side of us and a pair of friendly French Canadian gentlemen on the other. I went to the men's room and asked Michelle to order drinks and an appetizer for us. I was greeted by an ice tea on my return and we started discussing the menu. Before we had even made our choices the onion blossom was served.

Likewise, there was one served to the gentlemen beside us at almost the same time. I tried to break a few of the fried onion pieces off but ended up having to use my fork and knife to cut and release them. The "fried" part was good. Nice texture and good seasoning. But about halfway down there was no coating, just raw onion and it was sickeningly greasy. Only the tops were edible. I offered some to the NJ couple who had already finished their dinner and they tried a few pieces and said that it was good. I would never order it again. Strike one.

The menu has quite a few items that I was interested in trying and the first thing that I noticed was that most items were A la carte. This made the prices seem more friendly than they actually were. Michelle and I decided to split a Greek salad even though the server told us that it did not have any leafy items in it. I said okay but after we got it I wished I had ordered a Caesar or House salad instead. The salad had exactly what the menu said in it. My fault but Strike Two.

I ordered the bone-in ribeye for my entree and if you've read a few of my blogs you know that I like it Pittsburgh medium. It was perfectly cooked and tasted just as good as it looked. Michelle's salmon was also cooked to perfection and tasted great.

Our sides, a giant baked potato for me and quinoa for Michelle, were both delicious.

We ended our meal with a succulent warm chocolate brownie a la mode and coffee. All-in-all I thought the food quality and taste were exemplary. The service was better than would be normally expected and the prices were in line. Because of the a la carte pricing I can see where sharing could make a very economical meal.

I took half my steak and potato home and enjoyed it almost as much the next day. I really liked this place and I am looking forward to a return trip. If you go make sure to plan ahead because on the night we went there was a very long waiting list and from what I understand it is that way most of the time. Be sure to tell them that you read about it here and that I called it a "home run!"

Patron Azteca

2012-02-01T00:30:00.002-05:00

I was really in the mood for a 'Renegade Sirloin' from Longhorn but when we found out we would have about an hour wait to be seated (even with our call ahead) we opted to try the place next door.
We were on Sheridan, in Hollywood and in the next parking lot we saw this place.

"Hmmmm," Michelle said, "how 'bout some Mexican?"

I okayed it and in we went. Patron Azteca is a typical looking Mexican restaurant. Decorated in beiges, yellows and a Mariachi band on Friday and Saturday nights. They have several tables that are comfortably placed to allow plenty of room. You don't feel like you're just an extended part of the table next to you.

We were cordially greeted and seated immediately. It was about 8:30 PM so the prime eating crowd had already passed through. We were served a plate of bean dip, chips and salsa while we gave our drink order and checked out the menu.

The menu was 'gigante' and had too many wonderful sounding items available. It became what I call 'the misery of choice.' Which item to choose. There were so many that I wanted to try. Not only did they have all the traditional Mexican dishes that you can find in every other cantina but they also have many other more obscure dishes which looked and sounded fabulous.

Illona took the Borrego: Mexican lamb shank. Michelle chose a burrito and Steven and I picked the combination plates which come with a plethora of choices, including just about all of the well known favorites with our choice of fillings. Since we are both 'macho' men we had to have the 'macho' combination. Three items with out choice of fillings and two sides. Steve got a beef enchilada, tamale and taco while I chose a ground beef enchilada, a ground beef burrito and a picadillo tamale with sides of refried beans and Mexican rice. While we waited for our entrees Steve and I each tried a cup of the tortilla soup. I overloaded mine with the spicy salsa to kick it up a notch and paid the price with teary eyes and a runny nose afterwards.

We were thoroughly blown away when our dinners were served. The portions were beyond humongous and even dwarfed the oversized 15" platters that they were served on! Steve's double-handed giant taco was a meal in itself. The burritos were at least twelve inches long and a couple of inches thick and the enchilada stretched almost all the way across the plate. As with most Mexican places, we were advised of the hot plates and cautiously dived in.

Everything tasted just as good as it looked. The enchilada was perfect and the burrito was delicious. The tamale was a little different than what I was expecting but still tasted good. Everyone loved what they had ordered. But we had all ordered WAY too much food! The portions were so big there was enough to take home for another meal.

A dessert was in order and we ordered some coffee and tea to go with it. One dessert and four spoons ended the meal. The service was friendly and accomodating but the mariachi band quits at 9pm so we didn't get much of a chance to hear them.

I will definitely return to Patron Azteca in the future. There are about ten items on the menu that I want to try including the Molcajete and the moles. If you see me there be sure to tell me you read about it here.

The Hog Pompano Beach

2012-01-02T22:57:00.009-05:00

We were getting ready for lunch one day last week and Dave said, "I heard there's a new barbecue place that opened up in Pompano called 'The Hog' and maybe we should check it out." It sounded good to Dale and I so we drove over and met Dave outside.

I guess you would call the decor 'rustic with a hint of galvanized steel.' It just screams barbecue and makes the place feel real homey. You walk in past a large billboard that serves as the menu. Make up your mind then step up to the counter and place your order. Take a seat and the food is brought to you!

Dave ordered the pork plate with sides of french fries and collard greens. Dale and I jumped for the "Hog Trough Sampler," a serving of smoked turkey, a sausage link, pork and brisket. Each came with a small side of cole slaw and we split a side of fries. Our drinks were served along with three delicious jalapeno cornbread muffins.

After a few minutes the barbecue appeared. And a few minutes later it disappeared-right into our mouths.

BBQ Pork

The Hog Trough

We all tried some of Dave's collard greens and they were superb! The bbq beef and pork were great as was the turkey and I really enjoyed the sausage link. They had three sauces to chose from and I tried them all. The sweet and spicy went great with the turkey and the bold was good with the beef. But my favorite was the mustard based.

We really liked the food and we'll definitely be coming back for more. The service was quick and friendly and Jen, one of the owners, told me that they have a Monday Special on ribs. Get a bucket of ribs ( 1 1/2 racks) for $9.99. Try 'em out and tell them you read about it at http://www.whiteplatespecial.com/

How Many Martorano's Meatballs Can You Eat?

2011-12-08T01:20:00.002-05:00

Martorano's Masters Meatball Eating Championship will be on 12/10/2011 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood. Starting at 5:00 PM this event will bring nationally rated eating professionals who will be vying for $3,000.00 in cash prizes.

Joey "Jaw" Chestnut will be defending his 2010 title when he finished 43 meatballs to win the championship.

Flakowitz Deli, Bakery, and Restaurant

2011-12-05T03:12:00.003-05:00

I don't know why I have neglected this wonderful place. I go there so often, maybe subconsciously I want to keep the hordes away. It's already bad enough having to wait twenty minutes for breakfast or dinner. But the food really is THAT GOOD!

Over the last ten years that I've lived in the area I don't think a week has gone by without at least one or more visits to this place. And over all those visits, I have tried most of the items on the menu, and I haven't found anything that I would not recommend. My favorites are the omelets for breakfast; the deli sandwiches for lunch; and the beef brisket for dinner.

Some of the best Matzoh ball soup in town

All of there dinners include soup, sides, dessert and drink. They are reasonably priced and there's always more than you can eat. They even have an early bird for additional savings and the service is good, too.

Another scrumptious Deli Reuben sandwich

Once you've finished eating check out the bakery and deli. They have jugs of their homemade soups frozen and ready to go as well as complete dinners and all the deli meat and smoked fish that you can stand. They also have some of the best bagels around.

All-in-all, Flakowitz is my choice for the best value in the area. Stop by and try the brisket dinner, with a potato pancake and side of spinach!

Conca D'oro

2011-12-05T02:31:00.000-05:00

Conca D'oro is located on the N.W. corner of Young Circle in Hollywood. The building has been remodeled and they have added on more space over the years, but the food is still consistently wonderful! Michelle and I stop in several times a year just to make sure that everything is still the same.

On our last visit we were treated to a self accompanied singer who was just wonderful. He crooned many old favorites and with a few glasses of wine it made for a very romantic evening.

As usual the food was magnificent and the service was impeccable. They start with a basket of delicious hot bread and our drinks. The servings are very generous so Michelle and I decided to get an appetizer and a dinner and split them. We started with a beautiful salad.

We split the salad.

The salad was complimented with the appetizer: meatballs with fresh ricotta.

We split the appetizer, also.

The main course came out next. We decided on Chicken Parmagiana which we split. Even split it was too much for us and we ended up taking some home.

This was my half of the Chicken Parmagiana

We were too full for dessert but we had a great time listening to the singer and eating a wonderful dinner. If you are in the East Hollywood area this is a great place to go for a nice dinner.

Direct From Philly Introduces the "Touch Tone"

2011-12-04T14:01:00.012-05:00

I dropped in to my favorite Philly Cheese steak place, Direct From Philly, located inside a Chevron gas station on Military Trail in Deerfield Beach, to pickup a sandwich the other day. The owner, Steve, was there and he informed me that they were now open until 10 pm and he has added an addition grill maestro, Antonio. He also introduced me to Antonio's newest cheese steak creation called the "Touch Tone."

The "Touch Tone" only available at Direct From Philly

The "Touch Tone" starts out like a regular cheese steak sandwich but then Antonio adds his special combination of vegetables and spices and tops it off with several slices of American cheese. I chose to have the cheese chopped up with the meat which made a very unique taste and texture. Every bite explodes with the same flavors coming from all directions at once.

Packaged so it was still piping hot when I got to my office

As usual my take-out order was packaged perfectly so that it was still piping hot when I arrived at my office fifteen minutes later.

You can experience the "Touch Tone" by dropping in to Direct From Philly located at 1201 S. Military Trail in Deerfield Beach, inside the Chevron Station. EAT IN, TAKE OUT or get it DELIVERED until 10 pm Monday thru Saturday; until 8 pm on Sunday. Tell them you read about it at www.WhitePlateSpecial.com

Salt & Pepper Chef

2011-11-17T00:38:00.004-05:00

I found this Latin American grill on a coupon site where they had a $25.00 coupon for $2.00. Quite a deal! Dave, Dale and I went by there for a very late lunch one weekday afternoon to try it out. It was about 3:45 pm when we arrived. No wonder the place was empty and the staff was setting up the tables for dinner. We understood the late time and didn't complain about the lack of silverware or condiments on the table.

This place was formerly called Latin Conga

The place was clean and appeared to be family run. The employees were friendly but there was a small lack of communication because of the language barrier. Dale and I ordered unsweetened ice tea to drink and Dave got his usual diet coke. The iced teas came in huge goblets with over sized straws and looked really murky. I thought maybe it was some exotic special Latin iced tea and remarked the same to Dale. He pointed to the cooler in the corner and said, "Snapple."

This "Exotic" ice tea - Snapple

We checked out the menu, made our decisions, and placed our orders. I also asked for sweet-n-low but it didn't arrive before the food was served when I asked for it again.

Since I had that great coupon I thought I would sample their chicken soup. The soup was good. Highly seasoned with large slices of carrots and either potatoes or yucca. My uneducated taste buds couldn't tell. It also had a half of a chicken thigh: bone and all!

Dave and Dale got house salads and once the plates were cleared the entrees made their way onto the table. Dave ordered the palomilla steak with black beans and white rice. Dale also had the palomilla but with red beans and white rice.

Chicken Primavera

It tastes just as good as it looks

It was quite a gastronomic experience. The food was good although highly seasoned and that might turn off a few people. I think it authentic Latin food and therefore it might be worth the trip just to try it out. I was a little taken aback to pay $2.95 each for a couple of Snapples but that comes with the territory. The Palomilla meals were $9.95 each and the Chicken Primavera was $11.95. Actually it was pretty reasonable for the amount of food. With the soup and Dave's diet coke added in with tax and tip the bill totaled $53.36; less my $25.00 coupon netted $28.36. not bad for a lunch for three, inclusive.

Salt and Pepper Chef is worth a try. I give it three stars out of five. The coupon made it an enjoyable meal. Let me know what you think.

Grand Tavern Delray

2011-11-14T01:49:00.006-05:00

I had my first opportunity to try out the Grand Tavern that recently opened on East Linton in Delray Beach. It is in the old Lucille's Bad to the Bone location. I came across a coupon at Money Saver Coupons for $5 off $25.

It was really noisy when we came in. There was a football game on the tube and several fans were hooting and hollering, so when the host suggested a table outside on this cool 73 degree evening we jumped on it. We ordered our drinks and checked out the menu. Michelle just wanted a salad but I wanted to taste some stuff that I could write about.

Michelle just wanted a salad

I had read online that the Grand Tavern had some breakout burgers and I wish I had the appetite to taste them all. Since I could only try one burger on this visit, I requested the recommendation of our server, Daniel, who we found out is a student at FIU. Daniel, without hesitation, suggested the SmokeHouse Burger: 1/2 lb. burger topped with smoked bacon, melted cheddar cheese & crispy onion rings and a side of homemade potato chips. I agreed and ordered a PBR and an appetizer (in the name of science - taste test.)

Buffalo Chicken Dip

PBR on tap

Yes, they have Pabst Blue Ribbon on tap. A throwback to my college drinking days. To compliment the beer I got the Buffalo Chicken Dip: mixed cheeses and Buffalo style chicken served with toasted pita chips for dipping. The dip was very hot and VERY cheesy. The pita chips were crisp and seasoned perfectly. I wasn't too fond of the dip so after a couple of tastes I asked for a "to-go" box. Michelle commented that her salad was quite fresh and crispy.

Smokehouse Burger with Potato Chips

After a short wait the burger arrived (with another PBR) and it looked stunning! Michelle laughed that there was no way I would get it in my mouth. She was correct so I mashed it down forgetting that I had not yet taken a picture.

The Tastes and Textures Exploded in My Mouth like an Atom Bomb

The burger did not appear to be a freshly hand formed patty, but when I took a bite I really didn't care. I got a full mouthful of flavors exploding on my palate like an atom bomb. Smoked bacon, cheese, burger, onion rings and bun all providing different textures at the same time. It was delicious. I ate half and packed the rest to go and enjoy the next day.

I had a very nice experience at the Grand Tavern and I think you should give it a try. They have only been open a few months and I think the food will get even better over time. Give them a try and tell them you read about it here!

Bru's Room Sports Grill

2011-11-13T23:51:00.003-05:00

When someone asks me where the BEST chicken wings are in South Florida I point them to Bru's Room. They have several locations across Broward and Palm Beach Counties. What makes the wings at Bru's stand heads and shoulders above the rest? You can get them grilled! Even DOUBLE grilled!

Don't get me wrong. I like wings made at several different South Florida establishments but when I'm pushed to pick out the ones I like the most I only think of Bru's. I start out with a basket of "buffalo chips." These are the best tasting homemade potato chips I have ever had. Add a side of the spicy ranch dipping sauce and have them served as an appetizer, before they bring out the wings. Some nice munchin!

The Buffalo Chips are GREAT

Bru's isn't just a wing place. They have a plethora of selections including burgers, sandwiches, and ribs. We were there recently for my grandson Dylan's birthday #8. He and his little brother, Joey like this place because they are "kid friendly." They have a game room for the kids as well as kid sized menu items.

South Florids's BEST wings?

I've been to Bru's easily over fifty times and I've tried many items on the menu, but it's the wings that have me always coming back over and over again. If you have never tried "grilled" wings give Bru's a try. They will probably have you coming back over and over again for more.

Here's A GREAT Offer From Boston Market

2011-11-08T23:06:00.002-05:00

Eat home-style cookin’ anywhere $15 For A $25 Boston Market Gift Card!

Ben's Delicatessen

2011-11-07T23:52:00.001-05:00

Ben's Delicatessen in Boca is a kosher utopia. If you are ever craving that great old New York style real kosher delicatessen food - put Ben's on your list. I've been there enough times to have tapped into my Ben's Friends Card. On my last visit I was accompanied by Sue and Dave, new Boca residents who just moved here from Davie.

It was a summer Friday night, before sunset, maybe 7pm when I arrived at Ben's. The line was already about 25 deep OUTSIDE the door. I couldn't see how many were waiting inside, but almost every new person who showed up assumed the line was for everyone but them because each one methodically skipped the line and headed directly through the door only to be instructed by the restaurant host to get in the back of the line. The "entitled ones" grumbled noncomprehensible expletives as they hung their heads on the way past "we the waiting."

I already knew what I was going to order before I even got in the car heading towards this West Boca location: a corned beef and pastrami sandwich on rye with mustard. We were cordially greeted and immediately seated. Our server was at the table immediately with pickles and cole slaw and took a drink order as we checked out the menu and read all the funny sayings covering the walls.

Our server delivered some pickles and cole slaw

Besides the sandwich, I was eyeing the spinach knish on the menu, so I added it to my order. When I asked about the soup our server suggested the Chicken a la Reine. He hit it right on. The soup was superb. I ate half and packed the rest to take home.

My corned beef and pastrami was extremely large. Half of it was pastrami and the other half was corned beef. Most places stack one on top of the other. When you get it here it's almost as if you're getting two sandwiches. I added the spicy brown table mustard then opened my mouth as wide as it would go and still couldn't get it all in. Both the corned beef and pastrami were the best I've had in ages. The meat was exactly spiced and cooked to perfection. The meat was soft and kind of "melted" in my mouth as I relished each bite.

It's like getting two sandwiches

The knish was a little disappointing. I expected a big flaky spinach filled ball. But what I received looked like half a green melon upside down on a plate.

Spinach knish

I was able to eat all of my sandwich but I left most of the knish. The service was excellent and the server didn't even get upset when I asked for ice cream for dessert; even though he knew that I knew that this kosher restaurant did not have any dairy foods at all.

Ben's is true kosher delicatessen food that is as good as it gets. It's like a throw back to the old days of New York and something everybody needs to experience.

Grande Pizza Co. Boca Raton

2011-10-28T00:07:00.004-04:00

I never would have found this gem if it wasn't for Groupon. They ran a special through Groupon several months ago and since the location wasn't too far off my flight path I thought I'd take a chance. Since my first visit I have been back four additional times. Each time I tried something different.

This is not your typical pizza joint. You walk in past a tall counter behind which sits the pizza ovens and then the place opens up into a large room with a big U shaped bar and several tables. Then when I tasted the food and I KNEW it was different!

Our first test for a new Italian place is the pasta fagioli. We gave Grande's seven fagioli out of a possible ten. Good but not great. The soup was accompanied with a caprese salad. Sliced tomatoes with fresh mozzerella. And we also tried the fried mozzerella.

We always try the pasta fagioli at every Italian restaurant

You rarely see a presentation like this at a pizza joint

I usually don't go to a place this many times before writing about it but somehow Grande was under my blogging radar and I neglected it. The first visit was spent on tasting a couple of entrees. They were good and they were plentiful. We ended up taking more than half home to be enjoyed again the next day!

Michelle ordered a chicken dish on our first visit

Chicken and Mushrooms from visit #2

Chicken Alfredo

The next three trips were strictly for the pizza and on the latest trip I tried the stromboli. You can read more about the pizza at South Florida Eats: Pizza, my sister blog.

We ended the meal with an order of Zepellis, something different that is also not available at most pizza joints.

Grande Pizza Company, Boca Raton, has some great food and good service. The atmosphere isn't much unless you're into watching people picking up pizza orders to go, one right after another.

Five Ideas To Save Money When Eating Out

2011-10-25T01:26:00.004-04:00

In this slow economy eating out on a budget can be extremely challenging. But you can eat out, and for a lot less than you think if you follow a few simple ideas.

I eat out a lot and it can get quite costly. It's not that I have an aversion to eating at home, I know how to cook and sometimes enjoy it! But, being a single guy, it's not important for me to rush home from work and make a healthy dinner. It's easier just to stop at a restaurant along the way for dinner. My friends all ask how can I afford this luxury? It's not hard when you do it my way!

The economy stinks and of all industries I think that the restaurant business has suffered the most. Every week I hear of another restaurant that has closed after years of doing great business. What causes this, you ask? They just aren't getting the flow of customers they need to generate enough sales to cover the overhead. People aren't coming in so they are looking for inventive ways to get your business.

Everyone is looking for ways to cut down on their expenses and eating out seems to be one of the ways people are cutting their spending first. Or instead of going to the "more expensive" places they are frequenting the fast food joints and getting the double ripoff! They are saving a few bucks and trading off for a lot of useless calories and usually substandard food.

Not me! I go to some of the nicest restaurants, get served like a king, and walk out fully satisfied that I have had a good, healthy, filling meal for about what you spend at a fast food joint. Let me explain....

Idea Number One: Never go to a restaurant without a coupon.There are coupons everywhere. Buy one get the second free is a common coupon these days. You can find them all over. Small local free newspapers that you find, ironically, near the front door of some restaurants usually have several coupons for restaurants in the same neighborhood. Look them over and clip the ones you find appealing. Make a mental note of any special times, days, or limitations on the coupons.

Idea Number Two: Learn how to enjoy water.One of the biggest profit makers at a restaurant are the drinks. Forget about alcoholic drinks altogether. If your coupon requires that you purchase a drink with your dinner get the cheapest drink. Otherwise opt for a delicious, thirst=quenching, glass of ice water. If you just can't stand water ask for a slice of lemon, squeeze in a few drops and add a small amount of sugar or sweetener. I started doing this a few years ago and found that now I enjoy drinking water with all my meals.

Idea Number Three: Skip the dessert.Another restaurant moneymaker is the dessert. I have never seen a coupon that specified that dessert must be purchased. When your server comes by and asks about coffee and dessert it's up to you to resist the urge and say "no, thank you." For what you pay here for dessert you could go to the supermarket and buy enough for two weeks.

Idea Number Four: Sharing.Sharing is not a four letter word. Most restaurants give you so much food you could share with your partner and both of you will still be full. Unless your coupon specifies otherwise always think about sharing with your partner.

Idea Number Five: Take home the leftovers.Like I said above restaurants usually give you way more than a normal serving and sharing is an alternative. But don't be shy. Ask your server to pack up the leftovers for another meal the next day. In fact you can share one meal and take the entire second meal home! What a great way to save!

Now you are armed with Five Ideas to save money when eating out. I use them all. Today we ate dinner at an Italian restaurant that we go to almost weekly. We ordered Chicken Cacciatore and Penne with Chicken. Each dinner came with soup or salad and all the garlic rolls we wanted. The Chicken dish was $17.95. The other was FREE (no coupon necessary before 6pm). The whole meal cost $17.95 plus $6 tip, total $24 with enough leftover food for another dinner for one. Three meals for $24 comes out to $8 per meal.

Follow these ideas and you will be saving so much money you will just have to gloat about it to your friends like I do! Send me a note and tell me how you save money by eating out.

Trattoria Da Ciccio Amalfi, Italy

2011-10-17T18:43:00.023-04:00

Authentic Italian

cielo, mare, terra

There is nothing more authentic than dining in an Italian retaurant in Italy. While Michelle and I were touring the Amalfi Coast, our driver, Salvatore, suggested we try out this adorable restaurant. We invited him to join us but he declined and said he would stay with the car.

Salvatore pulled into the driveway where we were greeted by one of the Cavaliere brothers who run the restaurant as did their father and grandparents before them. Salvatore continued down the drive which wrapped around underneath the restaurant. Once inside we were immediately seated. There were only a few tables. Each set up for two or four with starched white tablecloths, beautiful glasses and silverware. There were three people from Texas sitting at a table near us and we found out later that they were also cruising on the Epic.

We checked out the menu and we quickly noticed that there was no lasagna, meatballs or veal parmagiana on it. Our server suggested that we try the "House Special" spaghetti in parchment paper. Michelle ordered the house specialty and I ordered the chicken with herbs and a side of spaghetti. We enjoyed the beautiful view and ambiance as we waited for our order to arrive.

Michelle said that this was the best pasta dish she had ever had. Mine was scrumptious also. After we finished, we were offered an after dinner drink - lemoncello - because this is lemon country. Antonio showed us a neat chemical effect when a few drops of fresh lemon are squeezed into the lemoncello neutralizing the sweetness and alcohol.

It was a most incredible lunch! A most beautiful view of the coastline, the beaches, the boats in the water, the sky, and the rooftops scattered over the hillside. And the ambiance of an exquisite, small, family run eatery. Unbelievably nice people serving delicious food with a smile. You can taste their love for what they do in every mouthful.

If you ever drive the Amalfi Coast, by all means be sure to stop in and see Antonio and his brothers Guiseppi, Marco, and Stefano at Trattoria Da Ciccio and tell them you read about it here. Michelle suggests ordering the "House Specialty," you'll be glad you did!

Scroll down for the rest of the pictures.

Smokehouse Grille and Wingery

2011-10-02T23:56:00.003-04:00

Today I was in West Boca near Clint Moore and 441 and I could smell the aroma of hickory wood in the air. I followed the smell and traced it to the Smokehouse Grille and Wingery. While Michelle had a manicure and pedicure next door, I dropped in at the Smokehouse for a quick lunch.
I was cheerfully greeted at the door by Chelsey, who said she had worked there since this location opened a few month's ago. She informed me that the food was very good and I should try it. Since it was 12 noon on a Sunday the place was practically empty and she led me to a nice table in the center of the restaurant.

The menu was extensive and in my opinion offered way too many choices. I have found that most places that offer an abundance of choices spread their expertise pretty thin and therefore a lot of items they make are just mediocre. I personally think a restaurant is better to offer fewer items and make sure that they all are the greatest!

Sergio, my server, was very informative and made a few suggestions for me to think about. He was also very knowledgeable about the way the meat was smoked and why the barbecue was better than other places in the area. The number one reason being that they actually smoke all the meat right at the location. Hence the great aroma permeating the neighborhood.

Carolina-Style Pulled Pork Sandwich

I chose the Carolina-Style Pulled Pork Sandwich for $7.35. It came with an order of fries and a side of cole slaw. Sergio explained the three different bbq sauces on the table and I tasted them all. My choice for this sandwich was the mustard-vinegar based sauce. It had a very interesting taste: barely tangy with a slight after taste of vinegar.

The sandwich was excellent and the sauce blended with it perfectly. I think the Smokehouse Grille and Wingery is the REAL DEAL and I will be back again soon.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

2011-09-27T18:19:00.007-04:00

If you haven't eaten at The Cracker Barrel Old Country Store you could be in for a treat! If you never heard of this chain you must be living under a rock and should try to get out more.

Cracker Barrel has taken over the highways with easy to access restaurants along side most major interstates throughout the country. Why do so many people stop there? Consistency! Each and every Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores are almost identical.

The food is identical and the service is identical. When you walk through the door you know exactly what you're gonna get for the money. And you're gonna get a lot!

Cracker Barrel Gift Card

While you wait for a seat, you can riffle thru the thousands of amazing items they have for sale in the "store" section. Plenty of candy from the old days and even some clothes touting the local color. The kids love looking thru the toys and it makes waiting more of an enjoyable time.

Sit down and loosen your belt. They have the best country style breakfasts around and a great assortment of lunch and dinner items, too. Just like Aunt Bee (from Mayberry) used to make! For breakfast I love the Sunrise Sampler or the Old Timer's Breakfast. The hash brown casserole is wonderful and be sure to ask for the apple butter. For dinner I like the Fried Chicken Tenderloin and load up on the vegetables. You can't find food like this at many places.

The place is clean, has good service and good food. When your toodling down the interstate and you see their sign you can count on roadside food as good as it gets. Try the ham and egg casserole.

Pete's Cafe Bella Sera

2011-09-26T16:25:00.004-04:00

I purchased a Groupon for Pete's a few months ago and since it is a little off my regular flight plan I had put off using the coupon until a couple of Sunday nights ago. When I finally located the place I discovered that they are closed on Sundays.

A few weeks later I had another opportunity and although it was a Saturday night I thought Michelle and I would take a chance without a reservation. That might not have been the best decision.

When we walked in the place was bustling with patrons. Some being escorted into the dining room and others sitting or mingling in the bar area. The hostess checked her chart and assured us that a table would be available in about 15 minutes.

We luckily caught a pair of seats at the bar and ordered some wine. Pete's is kind of an enigma. Most patrons were dressed smartly for a special Saturday night out. Yet there were women in shorts and men wearing tee shirts. TV's adorned several walls showing football games that were in progress as some of the patrons in the bar area cheered them on. A lot of the customers seemed like "regulars," the bartender greeted them warmly and offered to have a drink with them "later." I asked the gentleman next to me about the place and he said it was terrific!

"The steaks are off the chart," he said, "so is the Chicken Milanese." He was shortly whisked away to his awaiting table and replaced with a super nice couple, Stu and Colleen, from Boca. They were "virgins" to Pete's also but unlike us, they had made reservations.

We waited patiently as fifteen minutes turned into thirty and then forty-five. Michelle was getting a little anxious and prodded the hostess who said our table would be ready in a few minutes. Finally we were led into the dining area.

An open kitchen ran the length of the south end of the restaurant. The black tablecloths gave a quasi upscale feel only neutralized by the four televisions atop the kitchen area. Is this a fine dining place or a sports bar? Waiters, dressed in all black, jutted around the tables taking orders and delivering food. Roberto, our waiter, took our order and brought a few slices of delicious hard crusted bread with a kidney shaped bowl of garlic infused olive oil for dipping. Michelle opted for the appetizer meatballs as her main dish. I chose a large filet mignon with loaded baked potato. We placed our orders and waited. And waited. And waited.

After a long while our items were delivered. Michelle's meatballs were amazingly large. Bigger than baseballs and topped with red sauce and a dollop of ricotta cheese. I cut into my large filet mignon and it was cooked perfectly! Exactly as I like it: Pittsburgh medium.

Michelle raved about the meatballs and how delicious they were. My steak was exquisite. We even swapped a couple of bites to confirm our tastes. There is no doubt that the food was excellent and there was plenty of it. Michelle couldn't even finish one meatball and I only ate half the steak and potato. We asked Roberto to box up the rest and after seeing a few immense slices of carrot cake making their way to other tables, I asked him to put one in a box to go, also.

Michelle and I really liked the food. We were a little annoyed at the long wait to get a table but we didn't have a reservation; our bad. Had the hostess told us it would be 45 minutes to an hour wait we would have gone elsewhere. The place is loud and it is very difficult to have a conversation. People yelling at the televisions only increases the noise level. The live entertainment in the bar area was nice but also way too loud. The service was good but not as good as the prices reflect. The people at the table next to us were upset about something with the waiter and I thought they were going to have a confrontation when the customer jumped up at of his chair. The manager seemed to soothe things over but the patron still seemed to be upset.

We declined coffee and applied our Groupon to the check which made the dinner somewhat affordable. I made sure to tip based on the full amount. We would love to come back. Maybe on a slower night and ONLY with a coupon and a reservation.

If you have been to Pete's, let me know about your experience by leaving a comment.

Cucina Mio

2011-09-03T23:53:00.004-04:00

This was not my first trip to Cucina Mio nor will it be my last. They have the best hook of any restaurant. And the hook is that their food is just unbelievably good! There is usually a pretty long wait during the dining hour but on this Saturday night, when we arrived at 8:45 pm, we were instantly seated.

Michelle tries the Pasta Fagioli at every Italian restaurant we go to

We gave our drink order and checked out the three page menu. In just a minute or two our drinks arrived along with a basket of freshly baked bread. Michelle spotted the "Nuts About Salad" and decided she would start with a bowl of pasta fagioli, have the salad, and a bite of the "Penne Melanie" that I ordered.

Nuts About Salad

Michelle loved the pasta fagioli but she thought it was a little shy on the ditalini pasta and a little heavy on the beans. I took a taste and it was delicious. The "Nuts About Salad" was also great as was my "Penne Melanie." There is no doubt that the food here is top notch. If only the service was top tier also.

Don't get me wrong, the service wasn't bad. It's adequate; pleasant and accommodating. Similar to what you would expect at the Olive Garden, but not what you would expect from a restaurant that serves food of this caliber. I had to ask for additional bread three times and was told "oh, nobody brought it yet?"

At the conclusion of our meal, after the plates were cleared from the table, we weren't even asked if we were interested in dessert or coffee before we were presented with the check. Which made me assume that our server made the decision for us and we went down the road for ice cream. It was near closing time.

Great food, adequate service, and reasonable pricing makes this place I will definitely be back to again. Put it on your list and tell them where you read about it. http://www.whiteplatespecial.com/

Carlucci's Italian Restorante

2011-09-03T15:19:00.004-04:00

Dave, Dale, and I went over to Carlucci's Italian Restorante on N. Andrews Ave and Cypress Creek for lunch. They have some great tasting lunch specials at cheap prices. Our server, Mike, was on the ball and after bringing our drinks he dropped off a basket of some of the best garlic rolls I have ever eaten. He told us to be careful because they were addictive. I tend to agree........

After a few minutes the food appeared. Dale got a salad to start. Dave had a piece of pizza and he and I had a cup of deliciously creamy pasta fagioli.

When we finished the first course the main dish promptly arrived. Dave had a half meatball parmigiana; Dale had the penne and sausage; and I had an off the menu special recommended by Mike, a half muffaletta.

Meatball Parm

Penne with Sausage

The muffaletta was great. Grilled cold cuts topped with fresh mozzarella cheese, tomato, and creamy vinaigrette dresssing (with a little extra on the side).

Muffaletta

I'm sure I'll be coming back to Carlucci's for another dose of their fine frugal fare. Good food, good prices, and good service all add up to a great experience. Check out Carlucci's the next time you need some Italian food and tell them you read about it at http://www.whiteplatespecial.com/

$8 For A $15 Staples Gift Card

2011-09-01T13:43:00.000-04:00

Make back-to-school shopping easy $8 For A $15 Staples® Gift Card — Exclusively For You!

Meyer's Latin Flair

2011-07-25T18:11:00.003-04:00

Coral Springs is not on my regular flight path and when my son, Dale, invited me to dinner celebrating his birthday I had to consult Google for the best route. This restaurant was easy to find in a strip mall currently being reconstructed along University Drive.

Sheree found this place on South Florida Dines and after reading the reviews she thought it would be a great place to go; and she was right. She bought a coupon at a great discount price to help offset the cost of the soiree.

Croquetas

Once we all arrived we ordered a round of drinks and a couple of appetizers to get us going. I wasn't fast enough with my camera though. Before I had a chance to snap a shot most of the beef stuffed potato and ham croquetas had been absconded and most of the nachos were already scoffed up.

Muchos Nachos

The appetizer portions seemed rather small for the money but they were delicioso! The croquetas cam with a small amount of seasoned and grilled onions that were extremely tasty.

Lauren's Muchos Nachos were topped with grilled chicken and the nachos had the perfect blend of ingredients making them quite tasty.

Our server provided a continuous flow of beverages while we savored the appetizers.

Sesame Salmon

After the appetizer plates were cleared from the table, out came our entrees. Larry ordered the Sesame Salmon, crusted with sesame seeds and seasoned with oriental spices.

Chicken Fajitas

Pat chose the Chicken Fajitas which she really enjoyed.

Palomilla A La Plancha

Dave and I both chose the Palomilla A La Plancha, grilled thin sliced sirloin steak with grilled onions, black beans, and rice.

Sheree had the shredded pork, Lechon Asado, marinated with mojo and a blend of spices topped with grilled onions.

Paella De Mariscos

And Michelle. Michelle ordered the Paella De Mariscos. Ever since we went to Las Vegas restaurant on Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Michelle has had a craving for paella. Now was her opportunity and she wasn't going to let ot get away! She ordered the Paella De Mariscos, without the calamari. It comes with Saffron Spanish rice mixed with shrimp, scallops, clams, and mussels.

De Todo Al Carbon

The guest of honor, Dale, had De Todo Al Carbon. A meat lover's platter of char-broiled skirt steak, pork tenderloin, chicken and chorizo.

I couldn't resist this photo op!

The reason I don't eat shrimp

Stallone's Italian Kitchen

2011-07-17T22:24:00.001-04:00

If you're in the mood for some great Italian food and some giant portions take a ride over to Stallone's Italian Kitchen on Glades Road west of the turnpike in Boca. Situated in a small shopping center with Rooms To Go, Stallone's is much more than your local pizza joint.

Our drink order was taken and delicious fresh rolls were delivered to our table as we made up our minds on what to order. Steve ordered chicken parmigiana and I chose spaghetti with meatballs. Michelle and Illona ordered the Italian Feast for two.

We all started with a bowl of pasta fagioli and munched on the rolls while our dinners were being prepared. Once the entrees came we were floored by the quantity of food. Steven had two large chicken breasts over a large mound of spaghetti. My spaghetti, which I ordered fra diavolo, was topped with three meatballs and the girls' Italian feast was just that: Chicken parmigiana, lasagna, spaghetti, meatballs, and sausage with peppers and onions.

Steven had two large chicken breasts over a large mound of spaghetti.

The girls' Italian feast was just that: Chicken parmagiana, lasagna, spaghetti, meatballs, and sausage with peppers and onions.

The food was delicious and we took home enough for another dinner. The service was exemplary and the price was right. When you come to Stallone's remember the portions are large and order accordingly.

My spaghetti, which I ordered fra diavolo, was topped with three meatballs.

Make sure you tell them you read about it at http://www.whiteplatespecial.com/