Bites from the Road

Sage American Grill & Oyster Bar

Lucky us, who live in Connecticut, to be able to sit and dine by the water. For one there's Sage American Grill & Oyster Bar on the water in New Haven harbor.  It's one of my favorite Sunday summer places to go as they have live Reggae music on the deck starting on Sunday, May 26, Memorial Day weekend, with the reggae band INITY from 3-6 pm and the following week will be JAH Movement. Those bands will alternate every other week, weather permitting, of course. This time, though, I went with a friend for dinner, arriving early enough for the sun to still be reflecting off the water. We [...]

By |2017-08-31T15:40:21-04:00May 26th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Market St, Rhinebeck, NY

After our visit to Coach Farm, we headed to Rhinebeck just for lunch (and to, of course, shop in all the small privately owned stores!) As I walked through the door of Market St, I inhaled the smoky aroma from the wood oven and decided right then that we had to order one of their pizzas. We sipped the crisp, citrus-scented Gavi di Gavi (Cortese), Tenuta Olim Bauda, Piemonte, 2011 ($44)  while perusing the menu, deciding which pizza to order. Since one of our group is a vegetarian, we chose the margherita ($12)— mozzarella, oregano and basil atop a fresh tomato sauce on a crisp crust. The kitchen sent us [...]

By |2017-08-31T16:19:25-04:00May 23rd, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Henry’s at the Farm, Milton, New York

I traveled recently to the Hudson Valley to visit Coach Farm and decided to stop by Henry's at the Farm, where I had been invited to dine. This destination restaurant (previously Henry's Farm to Table) named after the owner's young son — is at Buttermilk Falls Inn + Spa on the 75-acre estate along with a Millstone Farm a 40-acre working organic farm. The farm provides the restaurant with vegetables, berries fruit, herbs, honey and eggs. I can only comment on the restaurant as they had no one to show me around the facilities. We started with warm salt-topped brioche-like rolls and crusty slices bread with a fruity olive oil [...]

By |2017-08-31T16:19:25-04:00May 20th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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ordinary…far from it!

Caseus-owner Jason Sobocinski is also one of the owners of ordinary, in the former Richter’s spot on Chapel Street. Jason’s one of this community’s favorite sons — he could have opened up a McDonald’s franchise, and people would have applauded. Luckily he didn’t. He teamed up a couple of other nice guys and opened ordinary. So, here's the quick and dirt …not because it doesn’t deserve more…but because the place itself is simple and direct but yet far from… ordinary. Think colonial, dark wood, beef and meat pies. Same layout as Richters – bar in front and seating in back — but woodwork has been completely cleaned and re-finished with [...]

By |2017-08-31T15:40:21-04:00May 19th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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briq, New Haven

Early this year, special correspondent Robbin Seipold reported the opening of briq in the former bespoke location on College Street. I decided to try a nibble there on my way to opening night of "Clybourne Park" at Long Wharf. I enjoyed a glass of Felsner Gruner Veltliner (available both by glass $8, and bottle $34) while deciding what to order. Our server raved about the "burrata pasta pillow," a vegetarian option of fresh-baked semolina pasta stuffed with a Wisconsin BelGioioso burrata and grana padano, and topped with a fresh tomato sauce. Sounded like such a good idea, but not. It's a truly ordinary dish, consisting of a thin crepe-like pasta [...]

By |2017-08-31T15:40:21-04:00May 18th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Village Pizzaria Bayside

I was amenable when a friend suggested we stop by the Village Pizzaria on the bay on Coronado island for a light lunch.  I realized I was in trouble when I ordered the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc listed on their menu and they served a California one without mentioning it. (Yes... the waitress did just poured the wine, never showing us the bottle nor giving us a taste!) At least the anemic Greek salad was edible with crisp lettuce, red onion, a couple of kalamata olives, some banana peppers and cucumber chunks all sprinkled with feta cheese in an ordinary Greek vinaigrette ($10.99).  The chicken parmigiana sub sandwich was so overcooked [...]

By |2017-08-31T16:19:25-04:00May 14th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Montclair Food and Wine Festival

The Montclair Food and Wine Festival will take place on Saturday, June 1 through Sunday, June 2 at the Woman's Club of Upper Montclair (200 Cooper Avenue, Montclair, NJ). On Saturday from 6:00 - 10:00pm guest will participate in the Grand Tasting, sampling culinary offerings from many of the state's finest restaurants along with an eight-foot raw bar provided by FIN. Gary's Wine and Marketplace will be providing wines and spirits from around the world. The Gala Dinner will be held on Sunday from 5:00 - 10:00pm with a wine pairing dinner prepared by numerous chefs. Tickets range from $95 to $165  are available online.

By |2017-09-01T15:00:21-04:00May 8th, 2013|USA, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Miguel’s Cocina, Coronado

Some folks I met on Coronado said that I must go to Miguel's Cocina as it had the best Mexican food in the country. Hyperbole for sure, but since I was so close to Mexico, I thought the food might be decided. I decided to try it. I discovered Miguel's is part of the Brigantine family of restaurants that also includes Brigantine Seafood next door in Coronado and The Steakhouse at Azul in La Jolla. While looking over the menu the waitress brought out fresh made tortilla chips and two salsas - a creamy fresh hot cheese one and the typical tomato-based one, the salsa fresca. Both amazingly good. So [...]

By |2017-08-31T16:19:25-04:00May 6th, 2013|Bites from the Road, USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Madden’s Gastropub to Open, New Haven

Madden’s Gastropub is opening soon at 175 Humphrey Street.  A location that has seen many bar/restaurant incarnations come and go in the past several years, it will always be known to long standing locals as Humphrey’s  - the original.  Back in its heyday of the 80’s and 90’s – it was THE place to gather for burgers, beers and fun. Norbert Ponte, owner of Madi & Mia’s sandwich shop on Orange Street, will be opening the location as Madden’s Gastropub featuring American food. They have done extensive renovation work to both the front and back areas room – as well as adding a new awning out front. They have a [...]

By |2017-08-31T15:40:21-04:00May 4th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|1 Comment
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Bodega Taco Bar Celebrates Cinco de Mayo

Bodega Taco Bar gears up for a Cinco de Mayo celebration weekend at their two Connecticut locations, 1700 Post Road, Fairfield and 980 Post Road, Darien. On Saturday May 4, from 12pm-12am and continuing Sunday May 5, 12pm to 8pm, the indoor / outdoor festivities include Bodega’s signature fare, tequila tastings, cocktail specials, live music and dancing. Sunday afternoon offers a mariachi band and a “guacamole slapping” demonstration that the whole family will enjoy. In addition, you can enjoy many of Bodega’s signature dishes, as well as a Pig Roast, and their first ever taco eating contest! - guest contributor

By |2017-09-01T15:00:41-04:00May 1st, 2013|USA, USA Restaurants, xyz misc|1 Comment
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Kapalua Wine and Food Festival

The 32nd Annual Kapalua Wine and Food Festival will be held at the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Maui June 6 - 9, 2013. There will be a Sparkling Wines & Cheese Tasting seminar, Festival Golf Tournament, Celebrity Chief Cooking Demonstrations/Lunch, and much more! Culinary seminars will feature wine-makers, chefs and culinary stars. You may participate in one or more of these events or buy a 4-Day Festival Pass. The passes range from $650 to $750. The individual events range from $40 to $150 each. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

By |2017-09-01T15:00:53-04:00April 27th, 2013|USA, xyz misc|1 Comment
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10,000 Acts of Kindess Earn Locals Free Cheeseboy

In honor of National Grilled Cheese Month, Cheeseboy: Grilled Cheese To Go – America’s first quick-service grilled cheese franchise concept – is identifying and rewarding 10,000 individuals demonstrating acts of kindness throughout the Northeast in April. During the month, Cheeseboy will surprise individuals or groups doing something kind for others or their communities with free grilled cheese sandwich vouchers. Each person caught in an act of kindness will receive one voucher to keep and one to pay it forward to someone else engaged in a selfless act. In addition to surprising groups and individuals in the Northeast through various volunteer events and programs, Cheeseboy has empowered each employee within the [...]

By |2017-08-31T16:19:26-04:00April 24th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Mikro Beer Bar, Hamden, CT

Mikro, features craft beer, many on tap plus a large bottle list. The beer-centric menu of this  gastropub — a small space in a tiny strip mall on Whitney Avenue in Hamden — highlights foods that pair well with beer. One night my dining companion  devoured the plump PEI Mussels with shallots, chili flakes, oranges and herbs steamed in white ale along with fries ($15). I tried the pan-roasted Atlantic salmon ($20) with a truffled parsnip puree, spinach, roasted golden beets  a balsamic glaze. Although it was a tad overcooked, it was still tasty and impressive. On my next visit one friend had the grilled cheese sandwich on whole grain brioche, [...]

By |2017-08-31T15:40:21-04:00April 22nd, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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New Haven Restaurant Week

Once again showcasing the city’s array of remarkable culinary talents, New Haven will host the 10th installment of the popular bi-annual New Haven Restaurant Week presented by Bank of America from April 21 – 26, 2013. Patrons can whet their palates with a variety of mouth-watering menu options from 29 of the city’s most sought-after restaurants. Participating restaurants will offer three-course prix fixe menus for both lunch ($18) and dinner ($32) comprised of an appetizer, entrée and dessert. Prices do not include beverage, tax or gratuity (some restrictions apply). Advance reservations are recommended. Park New Haven is offering parking at the Temple Street Garage or Crown Street Garage for a [...]

By |2017-08-31T15:40:21-04:00April 17th, 2013|USA Restaurants, USA Travel, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Walmart Steak-Over Challenge: Atlanta

On Saturday, April 20, local Atlanta firefighters Danny Pinto and Jeff Schultz compete in the Walmart Steak-Over Challenge to determine who has the best steak-grilling chops in town. Attendees will have the chance to join in the festivities, taste Walmart USDA Choice Premium steaks, sample Dr. Pepper and A.1. steak sauce, and cast their vote for best steak. The even, which runs from 11am - 4pm is free at the Walmart on 1550 Scenic Highway N, Snellville, GA. Grilling begins at noon with the winner announced at 2 p.m. For more info, click here.  

By |2017-08-31T14:08:45-04:00April 14th, 2013|USA Travel, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Spring Lamb Dinner at elm restaurant with Craft Butchery of Westport

Enjoy a five-course feast of head-to-toe cooking at elm restaurant with a celebration of spring lamb on Thursday, April 18th at elm restaurant,  73 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT 0684; 203-920-4994. Local Butcher and owner of Westport’s Craft Butcher, Ryan Fibiger, will discuss the many characteristics, history and values of all his locally spring lamb and other quality meats, along with the menu and wine pairing For additional information, click here. - guest contributor

By |2017-09-01T15:01:06-04:00April 13th, 2013|USA, USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Il Fornaio, Coronado, CA

On Coronado Island I walked with some friends to Il Fornaio, an Italian restaurant with views of the bay and the San Diego skyline. We ordered the Capricciosa  — a thin crusted, house made pizza ($15.99) topped with mozzarella from Italy, ham, artichokes, mushrooms and kalamata olives — to nibble while we decided what to order. The five of us decided to share three salads and three pastas, family style. We had a hard time finishing it all! We had the Insalata di bietole ($10.59) with organic red and golden beets atop wild arugula and toasted walnuts covered with a slice of Asiago cheese in a lemon-olive oil dressing. We [...]

By |2017-09-01T16:54:13-04:00April 13th, 2013|USA Restaurants|0 Comments
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Chef Waldy Malouf Turns up the Heat

High Heat Burgers & Tap is located on Bleecker Street just minutes away from all of the major downtown subway stops. It's the newest place from Chef Waldy Malouf, long-time chef of Beacon, Rainbow Room and Hudson River Club. Aside from a fast casual, laid back atmosphere splashed with artful graffiti, High Heat is a comfortable place to spend an hour or two. From the natural wood tables and counter tops to the iron and rustic stone details, you will feel the essence of a natural environment, matching the honest food offered. The ‘tap’ portion is named after the 8 wines and 8 beers (as locally sourced as possible) that [...]

By |2017-08-31T14:11:00-04:00April 12th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Thai Awesome, Hamden

I've been living in Hamden for decades, but it was only last week I tripped over and decided to try Thai Awesome restaurant on Dixwell Avenue, right next to KFC. While I was waiting for my friend Claire to arrive, I watched a line up of people coming in for take out and was the only person in the restaurant. I wondered whether had made a mistake in selecting this place to meet. We began with the summer rolls overflowing with fresh vegetables, shredded lettuce and shrimp wrapped in rice paper with a just spicy enough peanut sauce  ($5.99).  We followed that with bowls of Tom Yum Goong soup -- the [...]

By |2017-08-31T15:40:21-04:00April 10th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|0 Comments
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Bronx Burgers + Ride The Tiger at Long Wharf

Before attending opening night of the powerful Ride the Tiger by William Mastrosimone at Long Wharf last week, we stopped by the just-opened Bronx Burgers located where Goodfellas used to be. (Goodfellas moved up the street to 702 State.) The restaurant offers a few apps, burgers and sides. You'll find make-your-own 8-ounce prime certified, Angus beef burgers ($9.50) where you select the type of bread, toppings ($1 each) and/or cheeses ($1 each) and a couple of specialty burgers. All come with lettuce, tomato and fries. I chose the babe burger, topped with guacamole, 2 strips bacon, a fried egg, jalapeños and Monterey Jack cheese ($11). What was I thinking! The burger  [...]

By |2017-08-31T15:40:22-04:00April 7th, 2013|USA Restaurants, xyz misc|3 Comments
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