tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7623406062536193782024-02-07T21:13:20.784-08:00The Nom Nomfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-20912853263944998122009-12-29T15:22:00.000-08:002009-12-29T15:35:07.234-08:0024 Diner: Where to take a break from dieting<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I mean what I say and I say what I mean. I stopped into <b>24 Diner</b> before Christmas when my anticipated romantic date of ice-skating at Whole Foods fell-through. *Sigh* Instead, I chose to eat my heart out at 24 Diner which is located pretty much across the street.<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">After perusing the menu ... debating between cheeseburgers, hamburgers, sandwiches, breakfasts ... I decided, to hell with it! Why eat healthy?! I'm not on a diet ... at least not for the next hour and a half. I shall order the <b>Pork Belly Sandwich</b>! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj7HBCN2bzlLs-SxxZ2K-S-7XbJrAhbrBW9d8cS5-PO4b7rLY8Bquo6BFI18siGNFky9aJBbBXcObiA33Jj5FQ8DqEV1NvGaL9AJYb74EqWa0Bhwvxr5ae1GqH6OiDbSuXDu2vnDG3yaNg/s400/IMG_2349.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420803609217627922" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And that I did do with a side of house fries. The pork belly was nicely tender topped interestingly enough with some pickled cabbage. Is this a pork belly banh mi?! Maybe. The pork belly is already a pretty thick and meaty flavor to get lost in ... having the crunchy, distinct pickled taste of the cabbage gave the sandwich a nice kick. This plate was ginormous ... I only ate half. And thankfully, they use normal ketchup. GOD, the Highball uses "homemade ketchup" which pisses me the hell off. Who gives a damn if you use homemade ketchup. I want my Heinz, damn it. It's like telling me you have some homemade Dr. Pepper. Kind of.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Anyway, I want <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">to go back and try some of their breakfast options. The french toast looks out of this world. I'm still awed at Galaxy Cafe's ... </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">24 Diner</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(82, 59, 64); line-height: 17px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">600 N. Lamar<br />Austin, TX 78703</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#523B40;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 17px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Open 24 hours</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:130%;color:#523B40;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 17px;font-size:14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">x,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Franny</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-26835650849962799572009-11-24T23:42:00.000-08:002009-11-25T00:12:10.515-08:00The Hearty Vegetarian: Mr. NaturalIt took a lot of kicking and pulling to persuade my boyfriend to come to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mr. Natural</span>. I think a lot of people immediately assume that when a restaurant is purely vegetarian or vegan, then the food must be bland or at least ... not as good as if it had meat.<br /><br />This has obviously been proven wrong, not only in their case but with so many other Austin restaurants: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Daily Juice, Mother's, Veggie Heaven, Bouldin Creek</span> ... it must obviously taste good if the demand is high enough to open this many unique vegetarian/vegan restaurants.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Us_vLZJ7GbbDyM7nDJYBcmcxG8buDbUX-S87JcASsuxgBB5xpJ8Q0yPNzXw7-uZTsxwDqtcjfu8ntrODTwbNktC6mnhVGO2EiaXH4eIqfyS5W0qecAJAFUi974HpP3LsZur9zHzLfFdH/s1600/natural1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Us_vLZJ7GbbDyM7nDJYBcmcxG8buDbUX-S87JcASsuxgBB5xpJ8Q0yPNzXw7-uZTsxwDqtcjfu8ntrODTwbNktC6mnhVGO2EiaXH4eIqfyS5W0qecAJAFUi974HpP3LsZur9zHzLfFdH/s400/natural1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407947249791341570" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mr. Natural</span> is a mexican-focused vegetarian restaurant, but many of its pastries and entrees carry influence from elsewhere. They make AWESOME pastries, as you can see in the pictures below. They had stacks of fresh-made apple pies that were still warm by the entryway. Seriously, they are pros at pastries.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekb_P09SG-xhspvOx-s1nM1Xd-NDiE24Ewy0GlUyQl-jl2Ovvo_fwHTq9v_vcMo0xIhYKOFHU99p1YVAqSFMaS8TeN-3bpm9wdb3GJzFuVVr3-BMRW0TaGGoJvKNKV6ZFl-FELQnPEWDC/s1600/natural2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekb_P09SG-xhspvOx-s1nM1Xd-NDiE24Ewy0GlUyQl-jl2Ovvo_fwHTq9v_vcMo0xIhYKOFHU99p1YVAqSFMaS8TeN-3bpm9wdb3GJzFuVVr3-BMRW0TaGGoJvKNKV6ZFl-FELQnPEWDC/s400/natural2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407947245715357202" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZ_qL8VV6slAibQmjCD8WVr0jx8wuMYw2IFl_xoGGZf3fUQYKYqleUas0zcoYDjD9vTcFJuBTvbJwnOwdKwBXwbmQRjeUOmnyniBMq91RHNE94FnmlisEK_TiA3Mx6-e6uz8Z9T42kB5S/s1600/natural3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZ_qL8VV6slAibQmjCD8WVr0jx8wuMYw2IFl_xoGGZf3fUQYKYqleUas0zcoYDjD9vTcFJuBTvbJwnOwdKwBXwbmQRjeUOmnyniBMq91RHNE94FnmlisEK_TiA3Mx6-e6uz8Z9T42kB5S/s400/natural3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407947245359297186" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRzcTHetnSU_1VMzw2P3vcVeJYkzKTVMlhCYNNIJXdYHOOtUloo_KI50Xr6wY1QsTG3QNZ6LNVo2kjgHkVCiJGQ8ZStPHclcSjso89d5df2uVgucVHlLXssEW9_z5LpDewmmRRfZHQb_Pw/s1600/natural4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRzcTHetnSU_1VMzw2P3vcVeJYkzKTVMlhCYNNIJXdYHOOtUloo_KI50Xr6wY1QsTG3QNZ6LNVo2kjgHkVCiJGQ8ZStPHclcSjso89d5df2uVgucVHlLXssEW9_z5LpDewmmRRfZHQb_Pw/s400/natural4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407947239587755266" border="0" /></a><br />Their empanadas look unreal. Like someone picked the moon from the sky and stuffed it with some pumpkin and baked it. They offer tons of vegan baked goods too. I had a vegan cupcake on my birthday at work from here, and it was bomb. Vegan cake tastes like normal cake, folks!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9bJEFEIhj95HgDv_uVRmOph628kg4w8gZ5NK6H3suUkmfgho4ISBR3SkIdAxmcFRWlgN2NqPLv32ZJDsugbDGQDQIRKAcgcC83qh7c9Bx_8Kki0Sj0DhnkoaXACvaXdMnPFPw4yZ2csq/s1600/natural5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9bJEFEIhj95HgDv_uVRmOph628kg4w8gZ5NK6H3suUkmfgho4ISBR3SkIdAxmcFRWlgN2NqPLv32ZJDsugbDGQDQIRKAcgcC83qh7c9Bx_8Kki0Sj0DhnkoaXACvaXdMnPFPw4yZ2csq/s400/natural5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407947233927105858" border="0" /></a><br />Alas, what I came to Mr. Natural for was a good hearty meal and I found it. I tried their <span style="font-style: italic;">Tofu Migas</span> and they truly encompassed the hearty vegetarian meal. Actually, I think this dish is vegan. It's crispy tortilla strips cooked in ranchero sauce and scrambled tofu. I've generally liked dishes that substitute egg with tofu. It's a pretty genius idea, since the texture of a scrambled egg is pretty similar to that of crushed soft tofu. Another place that uses this replacement is <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jo's</span> ... where you can get the <span style="font-style: italic;">No-Egg Tofu Salad Sandwich</span> which is one of my favoritest sandwiches in Austin. As for possibly being the best migas in town ... these definitely are high up on my list now. They are definitely the best vegetarian/vegan migas in town. I tried Cafe Mundi's awhile ago and it was ... gross. Mr. Natural's were awesomely spicy and I forgot ever needing meat in my life for a second.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zpYiW7iukzMzgM9Vez3c6fvHCCJkKg-ldYRVy3gLfk-1EyARwAGPp0kF0hDm343NLX_IAhx8u_zCKHN4CxSkMz-t00DDkv_6AKbL4Kqr7XLa2f8xNodfN2fxmV2K_acwf5_AZkPKZtmF/s1600/natural6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zpYiW7iukzMzgM9Vez3c6fvHCCJkKg-ldYRVy3gLfk-1EyARwAGPp0kF0hDm343NLX_IAhx8u_zCKHN4CxSkMz-t00DDkv_6AKbL4Kqr7XLa2f8xNodfN2fxmV2K_acwf5_AZkPKZtmF/s400/natural6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407947423778171938" border="0" /></a>Finally, a <span style="font-style: italic;">pumpkin empanada</span>. Not my favorite ... and it's not because it wasn't a good empanada. I think it would have been better with another filling. I'm not the biggest fan of pumpkin, but it wasn't bad. For those pumpkin lovers out there, this is probably the pastry for you. In addition, they make fresh pumpkin pies as well. Perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas!<br /><br />Besides all of this good food, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mr. Natural</span> has a section of their restaurant dedicated as a health food store. They sell supplements, herbs, etc. They also have a weekly yoga class at the E. Cesar Chavez location.<br /><br />I am definetely a fan of this place. It's got great ambiance and so much to offer!!! I almost want to be vegetarian to be a legit Mr. Natural fan, but I like chicken too much.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mr. Natural</span><br />East Location:<br />Monday - Saturday<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Open from 8 A.M. - 8 P.M.</span><br /> <span style="font-size:85%;">1901 E. Cesar Chavez<br /> Austin, TX 78702</span><br /> <b><span style="font-size:85%;">Phone - 512-477-5228<br /><br /></span></b><span class="smallbold">South Location:</span><br />Monday - Saturday<br /> <span style="font-size:85%;">Open from 8 A.M. - 8 P.M.<br />2414- A South Lamar<br /> Austin, TX 78704</span><br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-83848971957862043032009-11-18T23:10:00.000-08:002009-11-18T23:34:51.717-08:00How to Die Happily on S. Lamar on a Full Stomach After LunchWell, first, you need to drive to S. Lamar circa lunchtime... and hit up <a href="http://www.myspace.com/lulubssandwiches">Lulu B's</a> first.<br /><br />It has been a while since I've revisited Lulu B's ... and thanks to Dishola's 10% off twitter deal that day, I decided I had no excuse. I don't know why I don't come here more often. I get really excited whenever I tell anyone about it or hear someone talk about it. I think it's the best banh mi in a reachable distance if you're a student or you live in central/downtown Austin. Plus, who doesn't love a foodstand?! It's like we love sitting outside of a foodstand on a cold, windy day with napkins flying everywhere ... why? Maybe it makes us think we're tougher...? Yes, that is precisely why I go to foodstands (not). <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTxt5xlAdidqrobZkXB_7SrZUlRqgNhB8YSV01enyaOE5r7WsmEDScNGM-yClv0Gg5LswMKKc3HdieopNXbQ-mt5MeiJMgtayGObEIuFxrd3yr6bcqXkDvKTYIg6HrPnSXY29MFcy8WIy/s1600/silhouette5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTxt5xlAdidqrobZkXB_7SrZUlRqgNhB8YSV01enyaOE5r7WsmEDScNGM-yClv0Gg5LswMKKc3HdieopNXbQ-mt5MeiJMgtayGObEIuFxrd3yr6bcqXkDvKTYIg6HrPnSXY29MFcy8WIy/s400/silhouette5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405709196002245666" border="0" /></a><br />Lulu B's looking it's finest with a true Austinite and his road bike perched outside the window. Aww.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWW5Hhu-jroNcW2fKzxEI0feeQB-uTIpMO5um_nGn_kFLZX7Ef7IEVf1OVFml_ojY7Qx5J-k43xJaZgmoKDqFSG7RmZrFXmpjoNzymkXDTofzJkM6J81HFG17BWZiOniHbwRTCcntNQaxN/s1600/silhouette6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWW5Hhu-jroNcW2fKzxEI0feeQB-uTIpMO5um_nGn_kFLZX7Ef7IEVf1OVFml_ojY7Qx5J-k43xJaZgmoKDqFSG7RmZrFXmpjoNzymkXDTofzJkM6J81HFG17BWZiOniHbwRTCcntNQaxN/s400/silhouette6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405709193710547410" border="0" /></a><br />Unfortunately it took too long for these babies to come out, but once they did... they were devoured. Freshly made <span style="font-style: italic;">summer rolls</span> with excellent spicy peanut sauce.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7zJVe7YIpTaFD9FdpHphNzfrwruiqdzCMs-WeUpfVfya_MKr66OqnJ8532fwsdgfQsMfkKvNk-1kTxzRaEhMqhlZGvhScmlWOER0g-3OCnUUEU8s8w9o9DgnN0kl_z5KW3cW-zmynyuW/s1600/silhouette8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7zJVe7YIpTaFD9FdpHphNzfrwruiqdzCMs-WeUpfVfya_MKr66OqnJ8532fwsdgfQsMfkKvNk-1kTxzRaEhMqhlZGvhScmlWOER0g-3OCnUUEU8s8w9o9DgnN0kl_z5KW3cW-zmynyuW/s400/silhouette8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405709188110200626" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Chinese barbecue pork banh mi</span>. This picture just brings about such warm, happy feelings. This sandwich is maybe the best thing ever? I'm pretty sure I'd be satisfied with a good plenty of things once I smother it in sriracha, but I mean ... the toasted bun, all of the crunchy veggies, the bbq pork ... and sriracha ... AHHHH, i die... but not yet.<br /><br />Why can't you be open 24 hours? That's my only suggestion.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfH7Q8d6JDvBxEX-tESXcQPvsavjuNQfU8OdmD5W_KyJA3H-u0qiraWJVU90GVgwzbU_G4zRBTl5shqN3VTvPX2YVJptRdCbuze1-Pgm7Yte9PlLveOCgsO7p6eBSRTDcVbUE2wqhHt8K/s1600/silhouette9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZfH7Q8d6JDvBxEX-tESXcQPvsavjuNQfU8OdmD5W_KyJA3H-u0qiraWJVU90GVgwzbU_G4zRBTl5shqN3VTvPX2YVJptRdCbuze1-Pgm7Yte9PlLveOCgsO7p6eBSRTDcVbUE2wqhHt8K/s400/silhouette9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405709183957688562" border="0" /></a><br />Guess where we went next. Can you believe that there was any room left in our stomachs?! We went to none other than buzzworthy <a href="http://www.gourdoughs.com/">Gourdough's</a>. Gour[met] Dough[nuts]. After splitting huge summer rolls and eating an entire banh mi. My picture only showed you half.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEhHTvh9W_Xa2ulLaROxI9IJWsDqCduPSukdDxl6iig9YdORi2qfQLHmDjpkNIGH9DIQBLcp_i0P1Bnbsn7N2ENp34GUMSPok1QHZTj8lHfIa8lB7p5pIAcMm9VpDjA-oNocwMdBzJT2R/s1600/silhouette9a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEhHTvh9W_Xa2ulLaROxI9IJWsDqCduPSukdDxl6iig9YdORi2qfQLHmDjpkNIGH9DIQBLcp_i0P1Bnbsn7N2ENp34GUMSPok1QHZTj8lHfIa8lB7p5pIAcMm9VpDjA-oNocwMdBzJT2R/s400/silhouette9a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405709179199320290" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Part of their extensive gourmet menu. We decided to get something that was easily splittable, so we settled on the <span style="font-style: italic;">ODB</span> pictured below:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cEOeJcs1rBvKkT8hLeu-f7kmAOEZSbVWYcRRy8honQV79-DgD0px_Z2YxFzzIhdYUTjuq6vchbjldkkNMFOUeA_8xPpjE7wmG8XxvnY0GIZFn2bM5tis7e0_QQc0ZebzA4ltumCqGY_m/s1600/silhouette9c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cEOeJcs1rBvKkT8hLeu-f7kmAOEZSbVWYcRRy8honQV79-DgD0px_Z2YxFzzIhdYUTjuq6vchbjldkkNMFOUeA_8xPpjE7wmG8XxvnY0GIZFn2bM5tis7e0_QQc0ZebzA4ltumCqGY_m/s400/silhouette9c.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405709393728677122" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UDL2IZYnZh1I0Wl53PkuEAkkmNMZXcjkZU2Dx6tDfpqD2XjPkfMijKRc4muoz7-dVXlxoKkfhiWnOnO5A8fLHYC74qbxWOT35kM8OOvjpRn8O28L04kKxPkj0r5iJHa48WaMTRK3dRbh/s1600/silhouette9b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-UDL2IZYnZh1I0Wl53PkuEAkkmNMZXcjkZU2Dx6tDfpqD2XjPkfMijKRc4muoz7-dVXlxoKkfhiWnOnO5A8fLHYC74qbxWOT35kM8OOvjpRn8O28L04kKxPkj0r5iJHa48WaMTRK3dRbh/s400/silhouette9b.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405709393529272082" border="0" /></a><br />Think funnel cake 7.0. Like, someone made a funnel cake and improved it 7 times and finally, it became the <span style="font-style: italic;">ODB</span>. This genius plate-like setting of doughnut holes filled with cream, covered in icing, and then topped with coconut. Yeah you think you're dead... because this seems a lot like heaven, doesn't it? Ahhh...<br /><br />But anyway, to really die, you need to come to the realization that you've eaten an amazingly cheap and tasty lunch at 2 awesome S. Lamar food stands. You're at 95% risk now of having a heartattack... so you might as well go stand in the middle of the road... because there will be Lulu B's and Gourdough's in heaven... I hope.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lulu B's</span><br /><span class="street-address">2101 S Lamar Blvd</span><br /><span class="locality">Austin</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="postal-code">78704</span><br /> <span id="bizPhone" class="tel">(512) 921-4828</span> <div id="bizUrl"> <br />Hours:<br />Tue-Fri. 11:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.<br />Sat. 11:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Gourdough's</span><br /><span class="street-address">1219 South Lamar Blvd.</span><br /><span class="locality">Austin</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="postal-code">78704<br /><br />Hours:<br /></span>Mon-Sun. 12:00 p.m. - <span style="font-style: italic;">2:00 a.m</span> (woohoo!)<br /> </div><br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-51156994260749193972009-11-15T20:54:00.001-08:002009-11-15T21:29:37.434-08:00Dishola's Dish-for-Dish CampaignAs one of Dishola's Ambassadors, we've been working like crazy for this campaign ... why? For every meal that is reviewed on the website unti 11/30, <a href="http://www.dishola.com/">Dishola.com</a> and Whole Foods will donate a meal to Meals on Wheels. It's such a great cause and it really takes no effort on your part.<br /><br />You basically just have to blabber out your thoughts on what you've eaten (who doesn't want to do that?) and post a photo and voila! We're basically helping you be a more active foodie... the latest and greatest trend, don't you know?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.dishola.com/dishfordish"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 250px;" src="http://www.dishola.com/img/Dishola_Dish-for-Dish_2009_300x250.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />We've been in talks with so many beloved local Austin restaurants to participate in daily Twitter deals that will make your taste buds jump for joy! <a href="http://www.dishola.com/dishes/index/Austin%2C+TX+78745/q:cornucopia">Cornucopia</a>, One Taco, Lucky J's, and <a href="http://www.dishola.com/dishes/view/2851">Maki</a> have already participated in the past few days.<br /><br />But this is just the beginning ... I'll give you an idea of some restaurant Twitter deals coming up: Lulu B's, Fricano's Deli, Uchi, Sugar Mama's, Polka Dots, Portabla... and that's not even everyone!<br /><br />So definitely keep your eyes peeled.<br /><br />Follow Dishola on Twitter here <a href="http://twitter.com/dishola">@dishola</a> and happy dish-for-dish deals will be floating your way.<br /><br />Eating makes you a better person, especially in this occasion. :) Dine, Dish, and Donate!<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-14363142835830037622009-11-05T20:56:00.001-08:002009-11-05T21:16:11.622-08:00Fricano's Deli: Everything You've Been Looking ForThis is the place you've been waiting to find. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fricano's Deli</span> is that secret cult of elite sandwich eating people that you've been hoping to stumble upon. Fortunately for me, I live within 30 seconds walking distance of it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQzkeXAg-MORE7ry6-tz0XXwHMHNcNmBfMjcfazJRAAOshIW7fwJHXVSW-ra26K502_iU0V0xwj-KjNgNkHdmQfWBS2xCUCpNE1BYRpVWK9nudS3dRa7b3kUZzot2m8pI6hmn5UPyeZIak/s1600-h/fricanos1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQzkeXAg-MORE7ry6-tz0XXwHMHNcNmBfMjcfazJRAAOshIW7fwJHXVSW-ra26K502_iU0V0xwj-KjNgNkHdmQfWBS2xCUCpNE1BYRpVWK9nudS3dRa7b3kUZzot2m8pI6hmn5UPyeZIak/s400/fricanos1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400850388348586194" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwX6lXeRvJZjr7ZhvAeZA7wsQJwYkzmxAx4JlK0ktKN_BMgUMeIcTXt5dCM0tHz-hfkKGo_rAppHAEEICY_Iayhagow0j-txCRqD2Kc2QJ947xmjFgh_rNY1mu-vwRgCSLqvaHgeIigl8/s1600-h/fricanos2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwX6lXeRvJZjr7ZhvAeZA7wsQJwYkzmxAx4JlK0ktKN_BMgUMeIcTXt5dCM0tHz-hfkKGo_rAppHAEEICY_Iayhagow0j-txCRqD2Kc2QJ947xmjFgh_rNY1mu-vwRgCSLqvaHgeIigl8/s400/fricanos2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400850386198869090" border="0" /></a>This place is so tiny and it's always packed at lunch time. I felt like I was standing in someone's kitchen... it was awesome. They're super friendly, accommodating, and affordable.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PcJnM7bwhn0qo8IrPFUVcq3WmGgqxroET7-gh9d91gkH7JNUmb3TTpnJFa0mEChSCRaQOPHnDlFxARls65EiQCdF8M7-6eSu441VNUox-Mb5X1DsbLHZ5kR5Cc5nF1FO4U-DqjVJ_v84/s1600-h/fricanos3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4PcJnM7bwhn0qo8IrPFUVcq3WmGgqxroET7-gh9d91gkH7JNUmb3TTpnJFa0mEChSCRaQOPHnDlFxARls65EiQCdF8M7-6eSu441VNUox-Mb5X1DsbLHZ5kR5Cc5nF1FO4U-DqjVJ_v84/s400/fricanos3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400850383103355154" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMy8a2gI_6aq9mJx_e1Aeelc8mzqeYAc_7tUe5CpUEX5qz5BnWiBXZ-aM7N7z2LWfgnE4TFvHZcsfnezMz5J9bMuo3KVGNm4OxFVSHM1S5Y3nhmde4KpZEaswJdj5LMCMB_0V1IUiBI_7/s1600-h/fricanos4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMy8a2gI_6aq9mJx_e1Aeelc8mzqeYAc_7tUe5CpUEX5qz5BnWiBXZ-aM7N7z2LWfgnE4TFvHZcsfnezMz5J9bMuo3KVGNm4OxFVSHM1S5Y3nhmde4KpZEaswJdj5LMCMB_0V1IUiBI_7/s400/fricanos4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400850382872022866" border="0" /></a><br />All of their ingredients are fresh and they have a pretty extensive sandwich menu along with homemade spreads. They even have a sandwich where they literally put every meat and topping they have on it. I think that's going to be what I get next time. And then on top of that, they also have side salads, soups, and desserts... which I think some are vegan.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIC6hyphenhyphenjPVVjt4L7QOjcSWN3BghnuGeKAiJGkRvQZcXZM21JpN9Yu_uR24wfkZYDYcl2_JPlHNnURj7KDNwcwiQWlzBeY5TBvNSF3jDh0Pzjxy-9W4XnzcIa5ves45tYMifyhHmDla60CN/s1600-h/fricanos5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIC6hyphenhyphenjPVVjt4L7QOjcSWN3BghnuGeKAiJGkRvQZcXZM21JpN9Yu_uR24wfkZYDYcl2_JPlHNnURj7KDNwcwiQWlzBeY5TBvNSF3jDh0Pzjxy-9W4XnzcIa5ves45tYMifyhHmDla60CN/s400/fricanos5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400850378619693122" border="0" /></a><br />And my sandwich: The Turkey Special with Jalapeno Spread and Italian Rustic Bread. I love sandwiches with sprouts and the cucumber gives it an extra crunch. Then to top it off, you've got avocado mixed with the spicy jalapeno spread... and the soft rustic Italian bread. Awesome.<br /><br />If you want to be in the elite sandwich eating club, this is where to go. Just sayin'.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.fricanosdeli.com/Fricanos.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 545px; height: 369px;" src="http://www.fricanosdeli.com/Fricanos.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-2420287045615351672009-10-28T23:29:00.000-07:002009-10-28T23:51:56.367-07:00El Chilito: Sunshine and Frozen SangriaOh food stands shmood shtands (jk I ruv food stands). You know who really made walking up to a window and eating outside in Austin a trend? <span style="font-weight: bold;">El Chilito</span>, my friends. The spin-off of El Chile that lures us with its yummy treats across 35 to the land of Manor. I find myself there when I am at a loss for where to eat and it always makes me happy. I refuse to ever let go of this addiction. There would be serious withdrawal.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErE5QoIl9nrLxl6I-HwNMoCQwgLCQcrfxesir2MC3QZdhMsymzqJmLlMSGqGz5edxF57x4E5-isfIMpNlbtelUPZW1O4DeagC0NKa_THWOk51o7MFRQ3r3feZS9kjU2dro_v_JYXOGsrw/s1600-h/chilito1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErE5QoIl9nrLxl6I-HwNMoCQwgLCQcrfxesir2MC3QZdhMsymzqJmLlMSGqGz5edxF57x4E5-isfIMpNlbtelUPZW1O4DeagC0NKa_THWOk51o7MFRQ3r3feZS9kjU2dro_v_JYXOGsrw/s400/chilito1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397905998018441314" border="0" /></a>El Chilito with it's awesomely retro sign. Wow, it's such a trendsetter. No, but really, I do like their sign.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenjfEHfKhT7jUYTFfbggWQhiCLd9PPIowSxa-3omceSg-zAyHubmLOy4ZQhbdjMl90Qw7kxlwgDRbsHSfdtVbZNRv9EULS7Cy-UaxQO2YP9as3N7AGoremq_lGmoe-rtwIt3F0TkBgZqD/s1600-h/chilito2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenjfEHfKhT7jUYTFfbggWQhiCLd9PPIowSxa-3omceSg-zAyHubmLOy4ZQhbdjMl90Qw7kxlwgDRbsHSfdtVbZNRv9EULS7Cy-UaxQO2YP9as3N7AGoremq_lGmoe-rtwIt3F0TkBgZqD/s400/chilito2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397905993242183218" border="0" /></a>And the window where you order from that is fly-free, yay. Not to mention their menu consists of many tasty delights which I have yet to explore. I would really like to try some of their paletas with interesting flavors ... like ... horchata, lucas (?), and pickle (?!).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_ANvcf3kBcxbI03TVQc1N1wrVHrv1Eaq10D0E0alA6DmYl3KZMqFomL1111jnjRRyMvrm71yuIlhDJcqdsAlGZH6U8Qx8EYQ3yHfIUhkPUQPcDjpUYtP143uKj0G2gcO8oEQAGvWltEH/s1600-h/chilito3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_ANvcf3kBcxbI03TVQc1N1wrVHrv1Eaq10D0E0alA6DmYl3KZMqFomL1111jnjRRyMvrm71yuIlhDJcqdsAlGZH6U8Qx8EYQ3yHfIUhkPUQPcDjpUYtP143uKj0G2gcO8oEQAGvWltEH/s400/chilito3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397905982566695570" border="0" /></a><br />Hey, but when it comes to frozen treats on a nice sunny day in Austin, TX ... it's hard to pick a paleta over El Chilito's famous <span style="font-style: italic;">frozen sangria</span>. Yeah, this thing will last you your whole burrito and you will feel great afterward. You can also get it to go, which I feel is illegal, but ... anyway, you can get it to go.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsBEBiJeL0ic5EeW65Zp8pNR8GXxS9BvpBBC9WsrcN0nsv9LxFOEImlFyshZPK9t3V7CV4pd-JWiOiFcCp_UHGFZO12uXu1U0CZySaIKSTdvQAiAkF9YfvegnSkQg7br_mp8a8sQgsJLO/s1600-h/chilito4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsBEBiJeL0ic5EeW65Zp8pNR8GXxS9BvpBBC9WsrcN0nsv9LxFOEImlFyshZPK9t3V7CV4pd-JWiOiFcCp_UHGFZO12uXu1U0CZySaIKSTdvQAiAkF9YfvegnSkQg7br_mp8a8sQgsJLO/s400/chilito4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397905984780875362" border="0" /></a><br />On to the food ... I'm not the biggest fan of their salsa. It's too mole-y for me. If I want mole, I'll eat mole. But when I want salsa, I want spicy-ass salsa for my chips. But their guacamole is great. So get that instead! Unless you really like mole and want it on your chips.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh556JKV9-P6x6U1FLmR5Yv1wfzlkdwCiOR8o82O1Ezr3iPlWU6u4x_V9bnffv3h4fu_zyR68Sh6z5oUY4e3hU2qegb3Ono1mJafZJQ53CX1saYauQRSnGrmkrwgmFKmCKP66PnDWqvM5qb/s1600-h/chilito5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh556JKV9-P6x6U1FLmR5Yv1wfzlkdwCiOR8o82O1Ezr3iPlWU6u4x_V9bnffv3h4fu_zyR68Sh6z5oUY4e3hU2qegb3Ono1mJafZJQ53CX1saYauQRSnGrmkrwgmFKmCKP66PnDWqvM5qb/s400/chilito5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397905977379799874" border="0" /></a><br />Finalmente, the <span style="font-style: italic;">Tinga de Pollo</span>. This is my favorite burrito there. I've tried some others and this one still reigns as my fav. It's described as a "braised chicken in a chipotle tomato sauce." Definitely tasted the tomato and the chipotle together which was really great. The chicken is always nicely shredded and tender so you don't have awkward chunks falling all over the place.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWI-u_WTslt5p48B23X7C8xl1sb6BjeXhrNJe0YEN0PyhAVvbUc8V60mn1ji89PRHRzx7N58wxsKHcYFRtW1caHS9bKeyw5mNYpEXh-d3S5aL-ye99hwqYNIMBY1HsSk5p9BRRof7roIE/s1600-h/chilito.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWI-u_WTslt5p48B23X7C8xl1sb6BjeXhrNJe0YEN0PyhAVvbUc8V60mn1ji89PRHRzx7N58wxsKHcYFRtW1caHS9bKeyw5mNYpEXh-d3S5aL-ye99hwqYNIMBY1HsSk5p9BRRof7roIE/s400/chilito.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397909578955753378" border="0" /></a><br />Lastly, as an added bonus ... if it does get cold in Austin, El Chilito offers blankets. This was taken in January '09 ... and see, I'm still drinking my frozen sangria like it's not 40 degrees. No worries.<br /><br />Highly recommended if you are new to the Austin area and in search of easy-to-like-pretty-authentic Mexican. Well, no. I take that back. Highly recommended to anyone. When was the last time you went there? You should go back.<br /><br />El Chilito<br />2219 Manor Dr. (there is also another location on Barton Springs)<br />Austin, TX 78722<br />512 382 3797<br /><a href="http://www.elchilito.com">www.elchilito.com</a><br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-43948108996377438792009-10-13T22:42:00.000-07:002009-10-13T22:58:25.644-07:00Galaxy Cafe: French Toast that is OUT OF THIS WORLD.I apologize for my lack of food updates. To be honest, I have had an embarrassingly copious amount of great food in the past 2 weeks. My excuse: my 21st birthday, endless amounts of schoolwork, and jobsearching.<br /><br />I will post about one of the restaurants I had over my birthday weekend: Galaxy Cafe. Surprisingly this one stood out from all of the restaurants I tried over the weekend which included: Eastside Showroom, Korea Garden, and Uchi. You must be wondering... why?!?! I don't know, maybe I was just in the mood for something a little less pretentious. Something that I could feel less compelled to evaluate... food for the sake of food, right? Like... I just wanted breakfast, haha. I didn't want to go to this restaurant because there was a "buzz" ... and it ended up for the best. :)<br /><br />Our breakfast drinks: <span style="font-style: italic;">Mimosas and Iced Coffee.</span><br />.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHig5Gk0-HodEYxxMEbA56z4S1KiDkMC04vZ3cpIRP1VNqu_FNTkTO_gjF1vu7XgtcLxDnyYUP28_eCN38gPRVfETOSEEOTA-bc8xAOddXEN7comO9gJvCTqkAHbbYloccreCu9fsDcc_6/s1600-h/galaxy1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHig5Gk0-HodEYxxMEbA56z4S1KiDkMC04vZ3cpIRP1VNqu_FNTkTO_gjF1vu7XgtcLxDnyYUP28_eCN38gPRVfETOSEEOTA-bc8xAOddXEN7comO9gJvCTqkAHbbYloccreCu9fsDcc_6/s400/galaxy1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392328415545633154" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7PdgoG_wid0rti4uVE00aQPvqMcQI9NaHhpYjpUEzxWoumFJoS5GqEsKEvTu7nshgLIUm7UqrJLFvu_x0CGapnZdrRQrhrlnMODMZs6mXDE03f4i19kw_rs1dvCyRdzKC4QkVSfKfKq_/s1600-h/galaxy2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7PdgoG_wid0rti4uVE00aQPvqMcQI9NaHhpYjpUEzxWoumFJoS5GqEsKEvTu7nshgLIUm7UqrJLFvu_x0CGapnZdrRQrhrlnMODMZs6mXDE03f4i19kw_rs1dvCyRdzKC4QkVSfKfKq_/s400/galaxy2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392328423263046754" border="0" /></a><br />Yeah if you know me, I am ADDICTED to anything related to coffee. Off topic, someone get me some of that Iced Cafe Bustelo in a can please. Where do you find that canned goodness?!??! As an iced coffee guru, I would say that Galaxy's was a bit creamy for me. It was like in between the Mojo from Epoch and the Turbo from Jo's ... but more on the Mojo side of the spectrum. Jo's Turbo is a little overkill for me ... especially if you ask them what the hell is in that glass of a heartattack.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1d_z9kwP7171M7tztZmVBVpaTKOYqdtOhCrZlErYcA19ZGzEZkvbiyet6eo0ubsPUaX9BcOCqRDEQzHTcHy7ddWlRGX1NgVwc2ohuELGelLhP-jGs5Z7K9pmQ-Byw7XYoOtNMRKGrX2n/s1600-h/galaxy3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1d_z9kwP7171M7tztZmVBVpaTKOYqdtOhCrZlErYcA19ZGzEZkvbiyet6eo0ubsPUaX9BcOCqRDEQzHTcHy7ddWlRGX1NgVwc2ohuELGelLhP-jGs5Z7K9pmQ-Byw7XYoOtNMRKGrX2n/s400/galaxy3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392328432540155218" border="0" /></a><br />Speaking of heartattacks ... um, FRENCH TOAST DELUXE, let's be friends forever!!! This reminds me of all of the breakfasts I've had at "nice brunch places" ... like Russell's or Magnolia ... where the one thing that would have really been the icing on the cake (or in this case, the strawberries on the french toast) ... would have been super FRESH FRUIT. I don't want mediocre fresh fruit. I don't want canteloupe-tasting strawberries. I don't want mushy watermelon. Give me these beautiful gigantic sliced strawberries PLEASE. And and and thank you for a huge non-soggy french toast... generously covered in powdered sugar. It was awesome. The bread was the cinnamon-y kind of unsweet ... which is perfect because you want your sweetness to come from the garnishings. And garnishings they did provide. Sigh.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLFfUCLOKdS_NDkb2FEjF3SBndfPg6ZS_QOkjdcDbOtjV4KJkg0biOWtaMimZOoDruJLm7idUdxqATArrL_837Z-kMZhlwzearlrye0q6MMrhBKn6jEN8xcw3M4RP5asnioAZkxFBP4ar6/s1600-h/galaxy4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLFfUCLOKdS_NDkb2FEjF3SBndfPg6ZS_QOkjdcDbOtjV4KJkg0biOWtaMimZOoDruJLm7idUdxqATArrL_837Z-kMZhlwzearlrye0q6MMrhBKn6jEN8xcw3M4RP5asnioAZkxFBP4ar6/s400/galaxy4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392328437312649346" border="0" /></a><br />And of course, MIGAS! Yeah, still on the search for Austin's best migas. These weren't Austin's best migas... unfortunately. I still have yet to find those, but they were decent. Would have been better with chorizo and black beans. That seems to always be my recommendation, huh. Why give refried beans when you can give black beans? That's all.<br /><br />Galaxy Cafe<br />1000 W. Lynn St.<br />Austin, TX<br />512 478 3434<br />www.galaxycafeaustin.com<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-53518907688280143632009-09-28T22:53:00.001-07:002009-09-29T07:27:50.415-07:00Eddie V's for Go Texan Restaurant RoundupEddie V's, what say you...?<br /><br />Well, I am not the biggest fan of dim-litted, stuffy upscale steak/seafood restaurants, but... the food was pretty good.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMV03wRH1gzxSmhSdlkajEAD5eUgp1TPtEojkbc5qr07ZiXGsCtR_WT7NMf_b65zGS9QDgMe_V9IolwZBbrz293YVYDWEGMdz4CvH23djaVgKoSXchvQXipMk8KrXOgGcv4eWrI76NKW59/s1600-h/eddievs1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMV03wRH1gzxSmhSdlkajEAD5eUgp1TPtEojkbc5qr07ZiXGsCtR_WT7NMf_b65zGS9QDgMe_V9IolwZBbrz293YVYDWEGMdz4CvH23djaVgKoSXchvQXipMk8KrXOgGcv4eWrI76NKW59/s400/eddievs1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386766129563494370" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Swordfish Steak<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span>Hm. <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span>Thought the swordfish was pretty tender, but could have been even a little bit more rare. It was definitely still fabulous though and I ate the whole thing. It came with a nice, light garlic butter sauce and sauteed wild mushrooms. So, some Go Texan trivia... according to our waiter, this swordfish comes from the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Cool! The fries were a fun modern side, but I still feel like something could have been added to all of this.<br /><br />I think the fish would have been interesting with a different sauce. Has anyone here tried 3-ingredient chicken that is cooked in China? That sauce is amazing and I think something with that taste, but lighter... would be amazing. Or even some kind of berry compote, because I am so into that right now...<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPT1Hi5cAG3FpYAeTZMAABCGSV42UwEKd42jDI7AeZPWi9gutdIos6vu8TPh-xljM4jMP0OZGeT8ejZ5iDEORoS5KloLzY1VnSHP_mqTs-ps4MtTW19o3S-iaiBOzignc4gov7JmQzO3I4/s1600-h/eddievs2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPT1Hi5cAG3FpYAeTZMAABCGSV42UwEKd42jDI7AeZPWi9gutdIos6vu8TPh-xljM4jMP0OZGeT8ejZ5iDEORoS5KloLzY1VnSHP_mqTs-ps4MtTW19o3S-iaiBOzignc4gov7JmQzO3I4/s400/eddievs2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386766139487258626" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Truffled Macaroni and Cheese<br /><br /></span></div>Mmm... the famed mac & cheese. Now, this was awesome. I didn't have much room for it, and the majority of it is sitting in my fridge. But what I did have, I loved. A lovely comfort food dish. Hard to dislike.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgchy7jOMQS5vBKSWfn1zk0xHF9-oS4uV7mXtimLEhWF9zL3XzHAUWy536DWRgdYr6RU-9Jte4YD87Eb5X1wOigQk9EHPeAQpBRaVUQu3TF8bI5wlxlzpFNz3UOhcV5sNI6xp47RQSbaNXZ/s1600-h/eddievs3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgchy7jOMQS5vBKSWfn1zk0xHF9-oS4uV7mXtimLEhWF9zL3XzHAUWy536DWRgdYr6RU-9Jte4YD87Eb5X1wOigQk9EHPeAQpBRaVUQu3TF8bI5wlxlzpFNz3UOhcV5sNI6xp47RQSbaNXZ/s400/eddievs3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386766146437689858" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Chocolate Chip Cake with Ice Cream<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Any kind of dessert that involves a warm chocolate pastry with cold ice cream usually is a 10 in my book. I really should branch out and try something different, but this one sounded so appetizing ... and it was!<br /><br />So anyway, Eddie V's, I thought your food was a little ordinary, but still very good. I think you need to change the way your restaurant looks and feels. It makes me feel like an old person with old money. Which I definitely am not. I think you should use more fusion in your menu ... I did see the Kung Pao Calamari ... curious to try that next time! I think you should keep those awesome chocolate mints at the hostess stand. Last but not least, your waitstaff is great!<br /><br />Eddie V's<br />301 E 5th St<br />Austin, TX 78701<br />(512) 472-1860<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /><br /></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-67999701057006193012009-09-28T22:15:00.001-07:002009-09-29T22:49:00.348-07:00Kerbey Lane for Go Texan Restaurant Roundup<span style="font-weight: bold;">Kerbey Lane</span> was never one of my favorite places. Why? Well, what comes to mind is a dirty, fluorescent lit restaurant on The Drag at 3 am with a retarded wait, dirty floors, and somewhat rightfully rude staff.<br /><br />But then I went to the newer location on 183 and it might as well have been a different restaurant with a different name! Dark wood, more of a family atmosphere, cleaner ... I wish the one on The Drag was like this one, but totally understandable since college students don't care about these kinds of things.<br /><br />Anyway, I had the pleasure of meeting the executive chef, Joel Welch, who really changed my perspective on the whole Kerbey experience through the dishes he concocted for Go Texan.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-P5UUZ75IL3qQMdnLzQAdsOofxUSQnY6pHIh_CB8pdIcXPeOdu99kBPddSLexs2uNS0nlu9Ts0-UXaduBXdJ3OyHjZzsErGPw9-p0OIKkm2-UycXtBLCqnl0UMCz4rORA55qOsw7iLBkq/s1600-h/kerbey2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-P5UUZ75IL3qQMdnLzQAdsOofxUSQnY6pHIh_CB8pdIcXPeOdu99kBPddSLexs2uNS0nlu9Ts0-UXaduBXdJ3OyHjZzsErGPw9-p0OIKkm2-UycXtBLCqnl0UMCz4rORA55qOsw7iLBkq/s400/kerbey2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386754004979122098" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >Eggplant Tartine</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Loved this! It reminded me a lot of Counter Cafe's Veggie Sandwich ... but as a pizza. I absolutely loved the red pepper pesto and eggplant with the cheese. I highly recommend getting it! I think it's something a lot of people would enjoy but may shy away from it because of the unfamiliar name.<br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSjXsJFR6EPuDu2epRlw4W64gwUEQQDHOjR8Tfn1wtQvYhuKVGGcQD2V96eXEtg1FXIFtZ7-xRc0g0Zc-y8bVaN3xAhpXNJ3jaVKkiDKIV0d2bXOz2kqquDsdTTr_mfMh97Lben2nTCHPt/s1600-h/kerbey1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSjXsJFR6EPuDu2epRlw4W64gwUEQQDHOjR8Tfn1wtQvYhuKVGGcQD2V96eXEtg1FXIFtZ7-xRc0g0Zc-y8bVaN3xAhpXNJ3jaVKkiDKIV0d2bXOz2kqquDsdTTr_mfMh97Lben2nTCHPt/s400/kerbey1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386753997227659154" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Bison, Antelope, and Lamb Sliders<br /><br /></span></div>We also tried these sliders that included the like of bison, antelope, and lamb. All three of these animals, I've generally been uneasy eating. Actually, I'm generally uneasy eating any kind of game-like meat and most shellfish. But, I figured, might as well try it someday. So, here's what I thought coming from a first-time game-r... haha. The lamb? I have had lamb before, generally in kebabs. But this as a slider was great... it was mixed with feta and other spices which gave it less of a meaty taste and more of a meatloaf-y taste. Really good. The bison? My favorite. I think this one had jalapeno in it or some kind of pepper. It's slipping my mind right now, but anyway it was spicy just the way I like food to be. Finally, the antelope. Not my cup of tea. I don't know if it was just my palate, but I felt like it just left a strange aftertaste. It was a bit smoky, which was something I expected. It just was not a taste that I've acquired.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Edit: Ok, so after looking at the menu to make sure that this all was correct since the 3 looked very much the same, apparently the antelope was the one with jalapeno and the bison had parmesan and tomato. So I'm wondering if it was the bison that I didn't like so much? I know it was the slider with the red toothpick. Sigh. Oh... game...</span><br /><br />Overall though, a very positive and eye-opening experience. I never knew that Kerbey held much talent beyond queso and pancakes. Definitely try it out this week if you are looking for an affordable, tasty dinner. In addition, in light of the Go Texan Roundup, many of these restaurants participating are donating to food banks. Awesome!<br /><br />Go Texan: <a href="http://www.gotexan.org/restaurantroundup/">here</a><br /><br />Kerbey Lane<br /><span class="street-address">13435 Hwy 183 N<br />SE Corner Anderson Mill & 183 N</span><br /><span class="locality">Austin</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="postal-code">78750</span><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-27161667615284550632009-09-24T22:37:00.000-07:002009-09-26T19:44:22.656-07:00Eastside Cafe: Literally Homegrown<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAy3J09b8sD9rF94yJp_5_nzZ4hKGK1dRqaeOXEoKEUt9uRVoqDjLjEhTMxQTLmkwVe_hTQ23TePvpgYP5lW08U-KM6CFYzj4kZN_NsLQtROR55rLUurmxYznMAg1z7XN2J0-4kZm4yLuN/s1600-h/eastsidecafe5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAy3J09b8sD9rF94yJp_5_nzZ4hKGK1dRqaeOXEoKEUt9uRVoqDjLjEhTMxQTLmkwVe_hTQ23TePvpgYP5lW08U-KM6CFYzj4kZN_NsLQtROR55rLUurmxYznMAg1z7XN2J0-4kZm4yLuN/s400/eastsidecafe5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385281481529608306" border="0" /></a>This "east/eastside" terminology that has been getting a lot of buzz lately focuses moreso on the newer establishments of those East of I-35 and not so much on a lot of those that were already there. In my opinion, that side of Austin is probably my favorite... old or new. To be honest, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Shangri-La</span> is probably where I go to drink with friends every weekend, <span style="font-weight: bold;">El Chilito</span> is my go-to for frozen sangria, and of course ... <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tacos Selene</span>, come on now!<br /><br />But all this eastside buzz ... Eastside Showroom, Justine's, Shuck Shack, Cheer-up Charlie's ... what about good ol' <span style="font-weight: bold;">Eastside Cafe</span> that's been sittin' on Manor for a good while longer?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6w7NMs3MBmzjWknkC-dR3Pm90jEkqpZyhJ36uIwU0M6qo8L4m86N2XBCKwgAHES-w4tx9Q9mNusm5m3NUtllalBU8rzlZXBHmvbp04RDksQ0uTiklhsLd7mMa3i_rqaBACst_AEqQxZCD/s1600-h/eastsidecafe1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6w7NMs3MBmzjWknkC-dR3Pm90jEkqpZyhJ36uIwU0M6qo8L4m86N2XBCKwgAHES-w4tx9Q9mNusm5m3NUtllalBU8rzlZXBHmvbp04RDksQ0uTiklhsLd7mMa3i_rqaBACst_AEqQxZCD/s400/eastsidecafe1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385281449340934850" border="0" /></a>In my experience, I had heard of this place mostly in the organic context, but I never spotted it everytime I drove past it. It's because it looks like someone's house, seriously. It's this cute little renovated house with a side "guest room" per se ... that houses their side project <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pitchforks and Tablespoons</span>, which is basically the coolest place to fun household trinkets for friends.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3ZjwGjo4iygPdOi5XyW50Io4jjcK-5iHCfZ3tSwTwbTQMiIwUzBA7-QdI1buKMaPiFCOuaDU-T1DTCpDcnwt3YKF3NNe81_mmmZVNOZcVVOnJu2pozXcIYprt6N0hPsRVWnymynFokhE/s1600-h/eastsidecafe4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3ZjwGjo4iygPdOi5XyW50Io4jjcK-5iHCfZ3tSwTwbTQMiIwUzBA7-QdI1buKMaPiFCOuaDU-T1DTCpDcnwt3YKF3NNe81_mmmZVNOZcVVOnJu2pozXcIYprt6N0hPsRVWnymynFokhE/s400/eastsidecafe4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385281471978374754" border="0" /></a>And then they have gardens everywhere full of herbs, vegetables, etc which they use in a lot of the dishes on their menu.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30TESnVO5Ji3WrjyoUD9iIHmu2JYKZy9_tiPdpB8rBLkG7NcWKcvmItdZUi8CscUGmGVmDEfmhC_HXnk3JOJ3PE6RWp_OKfgRUTun6kBdjh8TQiXzqMRlVJkhyphenhyphenNVo4mKvvYsXZyv4PXj1/s1600-h/eastsidecafe2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30TESnVO5Ji3WrjyoUD9iIHmu2JYKZy9_tiPdpB8rBLkG7NcWKcvmItdZUi8CscUGmGVmDEfmhC_HXnk3JOJ3PE6RWp_OKfgRUTun6kBdjh8TQiXzqMRlVJkhyphenhyphenNVo4mKvvYsXZyv4PXj1/s400/eastsidecafe2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385281457914342866" border="0" /></a><br />Onto the food! Did it taste as good as we expect "organic, homegrown" food to taste?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj22OsA9HEQR0rQkOuNn9wUd2EdnnlAxWSq-0CwMtcSG2arwg_CZaF-t10gHvXRUWvrErbCksQSMGfi8gudl7ZFQoR-NvX8gooyVqC-bXViopHc5ACPnPAzGqXEhYqNKs2OcfNtCLQLIxhZ/s1600-h/eastsidecafe6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj22OsA9HEQR0rQkOuNn9wUd2EdnnlAxWSq-0CwMtcSG2arwg_CZaF-t10gHvXRUWvrErbCksQSMGfi8gudl7ZFQoR-NvX8gooyVqC-bXViopHc5ACPnPAzGqXEhYqNKs2OcfNtCLQLIxhZ/s400/eastsidecafe6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385282620940074354" border="0" /></a>Well, first things first. Everyone loves<span style="font-style: italic;"> jalapeno cornbread</span>, organic or not, especially when they are in the shape of miniature muffins.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdzMEtTQPUjNiVKR6CobeZ7MEnytcK1FmF-YvxEv0UD96niYTXSrukSew78cJfqORa4-JstUjdhaIpUST94FEUgKuyd8NX216XiCCotJvjhgR6ACLBLEm4cpwjPGsZOeC26eK8h7ftlpF4/s1600-h/eastsidecafe7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdzMEtTQPUjNiVKR6CobeZ7MEnytcK1FmF-YvxEv0UD96niYTXSrukSew78cJfqORa4-JstUjdhaIpUST94FEUgKuyd8NX216XiCCotJvjhgR6ACLBLEm4cpwjPGsZOeC26eK8h7ftlpF4/s400/eastsidecafe7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385282611940154770" border="0" /></a><br />This <span style="font-style: italic;">chicken, artichoke, and mushroom soup</span> was delicious. Especially in this rainy weather, it definitely hit the spot. I love anything involving mushroom and cream, but adding chicken and artichoke was awesome. I feel like if you made this into a sauce and put it on a pasta, I would probably die. Taking a picture of a white soup in a white bowl in low-lighting is not easy, by the way.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8H02wcg_aO0WaaCsCiBt9Xoos7U2Nl8GxM0kRrqdjwIXGPliwEn_3ZvZONIUiJq9NXgiEOjk0oSo1iV24hxbscKdw73U0szmDWq8sdfMcAV0l_9v5qThg8BByCsnWSA-i8wvbUzwkNuE/s1600-h/eastsidecafe9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8H02wcg_aO0WaaCsCiBt9Xoos7U2Nl8GxM0kRrqdjwIXGPliwEn_3ZvZONIUiJq9NXgiEOjk0oSo1iV24hxbscKdw73U0szmDWq8sdfMcAV0l_9v5qThg8BByCsnWSA-i8wvbUzwkNuE/s400/eastsidecafe9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385282819758634578" border="0" /></a>A side of <span style="font-style: italic;">acorn squash with sesame ginger sauce</span>. Interesting pairing. Especially at a restaurant that seems to focus more on American and Italian influenced dishes. Squash is a very American vegetable ... it makes me think of Thanksgiving. But squash is actually a pretty bland vegetable, I feel like. It's like sweet potatoes. The slightest hint of flavor ... but once paired with the sesame sauce, I thought it was pretty tasty. Very interesting. And fun presentation.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpQTS5DEN299QDuDTVxHbAsffVIZSJeiitlzV8GMaNgLzmUOPRm1VtkriNFKUfOoWNJeN362qIKyVBA528T_vC-Xh2INX6DpbsUG836H9pRWX1J1Gn26QRoVUfRLhmMieIiPd5AMVE585/s1600-h/eastsidecafe8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpQTS5DEN299QDuDTVxHbAsffVIZSJeiitlzV8GMaNgLzmUOPRm1VtkriNFKUfOoWNJeN362qIKyVBA528T_vC-Xh2INX6DpbsUG836H9pRWX1J1Gn26QRoVUfRLhmMieIiPd5AMVE585/s400/eastsidecafe8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385282606208303378" border="0" /></a><br />Finally, the <span style="font-style: italic;">artichoke manicotti</span>. A lot of artichokes today. I don't know why, it's not like I really like artichokes or anything. In my opinion, I thought this dish was too cheesy. I would have liked more sauce, but I thought it was still good. I think mushroom and artichoke would have been good. But then, that's pretty much my soup as a pasta.<br /><br />But anyway, you should check it out if you are into eating locally and organic. They have daily specials and I'm sure their menu is affected by what's in season and what they can grow in their garden, which can be interesting and fun.<br /><br />And that cat at the top was in their store. He is awesome.<br /><a href="http://www.eastsidecafeaustin.com/"><br />Eastside Cafe </a><br />2113 Manor Rd.<br />Austin, TX 78722<br />512-476-5858<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-78212844864445756342009-09-21T09:23:00.000-07:002009-09-21T09:42:31.137-07:00Russell's Bistro: A Classy BrunchRussell's is no Kerbey or Magnolia in the fact that the setting is just so much nicer and it seems so much cleaner. And the prices are still pretty much the same, although the menu options are more limited.<br /><br />The only thing I'm really going to complain about was the service, which itself wasn't really that bad ... it was just the fact that they seem heavily understaffed or just incapable of handling the brunch rush in a timely fashion. Our waitress did bring us out 2 free snickerdoodles which was really nice and I completely understood that it was the kitchen's fault, not hers. But literally, we got there before noon and didn't leave until after 2 pm. I think that's a little ridiculous.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJMrZB3j7F4aXmiHM3qk7MmMTGB8mNMYZZICltrmS0QT8O0Sef2S8W8VZfKiVow-B15xboGLZ_7L_9_8mzLb08tLBHuWdAd-KYppfEJFfWJ777nvjgcZ52hhg1-fgZVYIPe8c23PCpPWx/s1600-h/russells1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJMrZB3j7F4aXmiHM3qk7MmMTGB8mNMYZZICltrmS0QT8O0Sef2S8W8VZfKiVow-B15xboGLZ_7L_9_8mzLb08tLBHuWdAd-KYppfEJFfWJ777nvjgcZ52hhg1-fgZVYIPe8c23PCpPWx/s400/russells1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383957765559454482" border="0" /></a><br />This is the outside with their fairly large patio. I wish we had the other waiter who kept bringing his tables mimosas to help them forget about the fact that they had been waiting an hour for their food, haha.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJC229I2cxSdIiLxUtRyKnps7zy6171YMPORbbYIrLt-BCJUGlsomTyFM7N8uraJ1C2Nmo7sm6Uv6ktIZvGCA6d7JNeGPmWiDPM6sQwWNJBvtPhCPCG_59M5CfZZVMov2XeieTVohbi7f/s1600-h/russells2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJC229I2cxSdIiLxUtRyKnps7zy6171YMPORbbYIrLt-BCJUGlsomTyFM7N8uraJ1C2Nmo7sm6Uv6ktIZvGCA6d7JNeGPmWiDPM6sQwWNJBvtPhCPCG_59M5CfZZVMov2XeieTVohbi7f/s400/russells2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383957749326002514" border="0" /></a>They have an amazing bakery that you can shop from and you can also sit down and eat. You can also find some of their baked goods at local coffee shops, such as Bennu.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaZFCvzgJ6_Io-t8V1jHtABiZXNRkp_ED2dCECTnlM-7VWUy31L_i2iDypnTizR51SwmISFJaw26In0WbNHPPeGt8jRJk8BcWrqxz5w-3oebwUuRWs0GJI-XDZB81JsiWCr_7Bi9idJAl/s1600-h/russells3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaZFCvzgJ6_Io-t8V1jHtABiZXNRkp_ED2dCECTnlM-7VWUy31L_i2iDypnTizR51SwmISFJaw26In0WbNHPPeGt8jRJk8BcWrqxz5w-3oebwUuRWs0GJI-XDZB81JsiWCr_7Bi9idJAl/s400/russells3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383957741458863202" border="0" /></a><br />Not to mention, they have packs of day-old baked goods. All 4 of these muffins cost $3. Well, actually for me they were free due to the circumstances, haha. But in a normal scenario, that is really a steal seeing how the fresh muffins cost more than double the price of 1 day-old muffin ($0.75)!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2swmluTcV7PTTzX4k5M9gBxZc6y-bMpN4uyLublBbW_AgWCeFmv0QyP3wSRLAnNRefpF8xh5yAUZDLe4uvkqyBcxcmOkjgQvembOueGqD6YwXTCCjyhGfRKDQTMC-4rlemKQ1rGWZtI7D/s1600-h/russells4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2swmluTcV7PTTzX4k5M9gBxZc6y-bMpN4uyLublBbW_AgWCeFmv0QyP3wSRLAnNRefpF8xh5yAUZDLe4uvkqyBcxcmOkjgQvembOueGqD6YwXTCCjyhGfRKDQTMC-4rlemKQ1rGWZtI7D/s400/russells4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383957731246887714" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Bistro Omelet<br /><br /></span></div>And finally, my brunch came out, although I was already full from snacking on my snickerdoodle and a little bitter. Nevertheless, the presentation of everything was excellent. The omelet itself was very tasty... I loved the mushrooms. The avocado was good, but could have been more fresh. I liked the potatoes, but in the end I was too stuffed to eat them. The croissant came with strawberry butter which reminded me of Quack's pink vanilla bean buttercream frosting but much much much lighter. It was good! Very interesting idea. And then some fresh fruit on the side that also was not very fresh. I always suggest never using cantaloupe because it never looks fresh. It just looks like mushy goop and it makes all the other fruit taste like cantaloupe.<br /><br />Yeah, okay so if my experience had occurred in a more timely fashion I think this would have been a much more positive entree. I think Russell's definitely has the potential to be an A+ brunch place, if you don't think it is already. They just need to get in the swing of things during the brunch rush and not let the stress cause them to make mediocre food.<br /><br />Russell's is located at:<br />1601 W. 38th St.<br />Austin, TX 78731<br />www.russellsbakery.com<br /><br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-58549422614777111812009-09-16T23:47:00.000-07:002009-09-17T00:06:35.051-07:00Bess Bistro: Cute Name, Okay Food?My coworker that I interned with at Sweet Leaf Tea recommended this place to me a while ago when I was looking for a good place to have a nice, affordable dinner with my boyfriend. She said Bess was really cute with a cozy feel, not to mention it's owned by Sandra Bullock.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQX8lrhKyUSj1gvgK2RNh0xo_HHMQ_mimB1fY2SnS2u-NLekQksvEciEB4jFAK0Juw0Wt6bIlw4HEoCbuIuHfTZ58VEFQ3UyQ5Z6ec_hs7NY-tRdwuEU4QXPMOwgdVzYBxIKwDB-JlK-s/s1600-h/bess4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQX8lrhKyUSj1gvgK2RNh0xo_HHMQ_mimB1fY2SnS2u-NLekQksvEciEB4jFAK0Juw0Wt6bIlw4HEoCbuIuHfTZ58VEFQ3UyQ5Z6ec_hs7NY-tRdwuEU4QXPMOwgdVzYBxIKwDB-JlK-s/s400/bess4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382324954741036290" border="0" /></a><br />So after snagging like a bajillion gift certificates last week on Restaurant.com when they had their 90% off sale to celebrate 9/9/09 ... my friend and I decided to use it at Bess for <a href="http://www.restaurantweekaustin.com/">Austin Restaurant Week</a>. We were going to go to Parkside, but we though parking might be an issue ... but I've been <span style="font-style: italic;">dying</span> to go there, so hopefully one day! Bess is in a much easier location to park at that's not quite in the middle of all the hustle and bustle.<br /><br />My friend Rachel and I joked about how surreal it would be if Sandra Bullock were there when we went in ... but then laughed it off saying yeah right, that will never happen! And lo and behold, she was sitting at the bar!!! It was nuts. We were glad we chose Bess before we even stuck a fork in our mouths.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHeNKjvFSXEVERpEkBBfNgsfklq985sQY1C9xTUjT5E7v6SanoMotW5XQNLXM5UHQ6oa5hxCXfn5I5VQDxSuIGABewLG7NVlJPczSrkkMVtJgG7rPFt4S8SpBTh4A8CiIhyphenhyphentdXf5c4LCsU/s1600-h/bess1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHeNKjvFSXEVERpEkBBfNgsfklq985sQY1C9xTUjT5E7v6SanoMotW5XQNLXM5UHQ6oa5hxCXfn5I5VQDxSuIGABewLG7NVlJPczSrkkMVtJgG7rPFt4S8SpBTh4A8CiIhyphenhyphentdXf5c4LCsU/s400/bess1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382324929883649634" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Soup du Jour: Summer Squash</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I enjoyed this soup. I love vegetable soups and this one was very colorful and flavorful. I liked the extra added spiciness to it. It went along very nicely with the bread. I imagine the oysters were probably a better deal though. Unfortunately, oysters scare me.<br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHvssyLbkGxdoNA6jWrfh15yNWM8q5kSZ4xd-dkAuDmzMB9tcvgG32vEYuQmuidk1Crak5UWo5OmhnXQE1dNAiWEGPP2WKmIl64M_ahcUP5U-kvQRBzdSsg-VNI9OKPKChEPkPH26OVFn/s1600-h/bess2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHvssyLbkGxdoNA6jWrfh15yNWM8q5kSZ4xd-dkAuDmzMB9tcvgG32vEYuQmuidk1Crak5UWo5OmhnXQE1dNAiWEGPP2WKmIl64M_ahcUP5U-kvQRBzdSsg-VNI9OKPKChEPkPH26OVFn/s400/bess2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382324935110841106" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Bone-in Pork Loin</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This was great! My first experience with a berry sauce on a grilled meat was at Breadwinners in Dallas. They have this <span style="font-style: italic;">amazing</span> chipotle raspberry chicken sandwich that is just to-die-for. This reminded me a lot of it! The tender pork was topped with a blackberry compote that made your taste buds jump for joy. I was kind of indifferent about the grits. I'm not the biggest fan of grits. I'm a much bigger fan of mashed potatoes.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnXLUEW-NajT-H_PT92MVLA_xdJStOrA-6x-MtOWG8ZbNNPM-Pwucgmo-1U_LxiNpwtDdHLHDwcdEkKUsNI95hMuhBAELb0kDXNNbndgxNJ-5Z5WRBhC85X2wK_s7RcZit0Ly1PE-lIgfa/s1600-h/bess3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnXLUEW-NajT-H_PT92MVLA_xdJStOrA-6x-MtOWG8ZbNNPM-Pwucgmo-1U_LxiNpwtDdHLHDwcdEkKUsNI95hMuhBAELb0kDXNNbndgxNJ-5Z5WRBhC85X2wK_s7RcZit0Ly1PE-lIgfa/s400/bess3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382324947816317234" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Summer Risotto with Scallops</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Rachel ordered this dish for her main course. All I tried was the risotto because I am a huge huge huge risotto fan. Who isn't? It was far too lemony. Very distracting. Not my favorite.<br /><br />Lastly I had the <span style="font-style: italic;">Chocolate Torte</span> which is pictured first for dessert. It was ... not the best dessert I've ever had. Let's just say, it tasted like stale brownie/cookie dough or something. It didn't feel, taste, or look fresh at all. I might as well have left some fudgy ice cream rotting in the fridge and turn all rubber-y and then slap it in a tart shell ... Ok, that might be a little harsh. But anyway, don't get the chocolate torte.<br /></div></div><br />Bess does have great deals besides Austin Restaurant Week. Once a week they have a couples dinner for $40 total. That's a 3-course meal for 2 people for $40. That is a steal. That is an even better deal thatn Austin Restaurant Week!<br /><br />Bess Bistro<br />500 W. 6th St.<br />512-477-2377<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-33167233942877414372009-09-15T21:56:00.000-07:002009-09-15T22:14:01.927-07:00Titaya's Thai Cuisine: Totally TantalizingRemember that day last week that it was pouring? Oh wait, that was like everyday last week. Well, in my case, rain makes me want food that makes me feel warm on the inside. For me, Thai food generally hits the spot. It's hearty, fresh, and so full of flavor. Perfect for a rainy day. Well, perfect for any day really.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6JYZ-Fp9pnuXMzrx669DJ8pwN9dkKqRIRqQQ9d4EGzb5jDBb5LzlnnIdNr_WWF4_Aka0kcev5HaaO4STY9FnR6r18xv7CcE_Nn8jIt6QpNGT7yfpIMZs5f2JnS2qUAFDHGbHkQCiWpKq/s1600-h/titayas1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6JYZ-Fp9pnuXMzrx669DJ8pwN9dkKqRIRqQQ9d4EGzb5jDBb5LzlnnIdNr_WWF4_Aka0kcev5HaaO4STY9FnR6r18xv7CcE_Nn8jIt6QpNGT7yfpIMZs5f2JnS2qUAFDHGbHkQCiWpKq/s400/titayas1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381926436299181714" border="0" /></a><br />I had heard a lot about <a href="http://titayasthaicuisine.com/default.aspx">Titaya's</a> through word of mouth and I had driven past it multiple times since I live near there and frequent that Half Price and Goodwill pretty often. My friend Charlene and I decided to give it a shot!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVKpYUUoupbOhJh_ammA7zQdoQBZwgvAA0uLWOfGCCKUWAdIbYV4qLTMEl3yX47BJ6XPeokFNNnc6xuT7xQwAe7j8htMASK0UhAyZz9YjmVuV5405dh3T4qbqBALvRhKTRA6sYrGNeTKd/s1600-h/titayas2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVKpYUUoupbOhJh_ammA7zQdoQBZwgvAA0uLWOfGCCKUWAdIbYV4qLTMEl3yX47BJ6XPeokFNNnc6xuT7xQwAe7j8htMASK0UhAyZz9YjmVuV5405dh3T4qbqBALvRhKTRA6sYrGNeTKd/s400/titayas2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381926446384755602" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Fresh Shrimp Spring Rolls $3.50</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Mmm, what a steal. Look at the size of those. It was pretty much like getting 4, because the 2 spring rolls were cut in half. (We had already eaten 2 before I remembered I should probably take a picture.) I never know if I should dip it into the peanut sauce or sriracha, though. I'm so addicted to sriracha, it blurs my judgment. Thankfully, I stuck with the peanut sauce and the whole combination was lovely. I actually had to tell myself to stop eating them so I would have room left for the main dish.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzcsc1Gy6_t-UrmjZXnmo-cd4njWhbBiRO4jFm4vrzM5lRmo9EdLYxHLHLajsSjSgwEEF_wS5jdAeB0Tt28RwObKLVu7bEtHtfynS_Nm4EJ_ZQNxI4omGGkIoNYgFQ59M821ngiuK7KvW/s1600-h/titayas3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzcsc1Gy6_t-UrmjZXnmo-cd4njWhbBiRO4jFm4vrzM5lRmo9EdLYxHLHLajsSjSgwEEF_wS5jdAeB0Tt28RwObKLVu7bEtHtfynS_Nm4EJ_ZQNxI4omGGkIoNYgFQ59M821ngiuK7KvW/s400/titayas3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381926448223514802" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Pad Kee Mao w/ Chicken<span style="font-style: italic;"> $8.50<br /><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Ahhhh I love spicy and I love Asian. This really hit the spot. I am a loyal fan to Pad See Eew, so I took a little baby step and got Pad Kee Mao... which I totally love even more! I loved all of the different peppers and chilis involved mixed with the fresh basil. It was a huge portion and I took half of it home.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Overall, I loved Titaya's. Our waiter was very helpful and attentive, I was impressed! Not to mention, you get so much <span style="font-style: italic;">good</span> food for your dollar, it's a great deal and could probably last you 2 meals.<br /><br />Titaya's is located at:<br />5501 N Lamar Blvd # C101<br />Austin, TX 78751-1086<br />(512) 458-1792<br /><br />Nom nom nom nom.<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /></div></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-31007397980073726202009-09-10T00:23:00.000-07:002009-09-10T00:43:16.525-07:00Cisco's Restaurant and BakeryI've been on a search for my most favorite migas in Austin ... and I have yet to say the search is still ongoing! This past weekend I went to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cisco's</span> with a few of my friends to get out of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Juan in a Million</span> routine... sometimes it's fun to be a LITTLE more creative!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OFFr2NuP5d4GrnXMevo8tsp_IR3mNB9hB7NRxqYmFbxDt9hM_24Q1pLKF-PO32dGNG99A4VzKmmCjPnduDDWofPICh9Sb_JpZt_pmKwfvsfMVoVdhQbpoZfmrfMIOXoXfvITKHfROjXB/s1600-h/migasciscos.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OFFr2NuP5d4GrnXMevo8tsp_IR3mNB9hB7NRxqYmFbxDt9hM_24Q1pLKF-PO32dGNG99A4VzKmmCjPnduDDWofPICh9Sb_JpZt_pmKwfvsfMVoVdhQbpoZfmrfMIOXoXfvITKHfROjXB/s400/migasciscos.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379736850881576498" border="0" /></a><br />When it comes to Cisco's migas, I have to say they were above average, but not perfection. I wish the sausage had been cut up and mixed in with the migas. Also, I always prefer black beans over refried beans. These migas do come with tortillas and this humongous biscuit which are definitely added bonuses. You could probably fit a small animal in that biscuit they give you.<br /><br />I think what took away from the experience was the service. I've actually never had a bad experience any other time I have been to Cisco's but this time they were extremely short-staffed and it took forever, not to mention the wait just to get seated.<br /><br />Nevertheless, I love the atmosphere much better than Juan's. They have lots of old-man quirky things around the restaurant including old pictures of "Cisco" himself, a gun holder made of hooves (comforting...), hilariously sarcastic drawings by their cash register, and of course ... the unmistakable logo with Cisco and his cigar:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/175/418301583_37482a3ef9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/175/418301583_37482a3ef9.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">flickr: viajante<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">I must also mention that Cisco's is celebrating their 70th (!!!) anniversary this year and they have been posting coupons in the Statesman's XL for buy-one-get-one free Migas and/or Huevos Rancheros. I, unfortunately, did not get to use it, but you should be smart and save a buck!<br /><br />But really, I urge you ... if you are trying to expose yourself to more "authentic" Mexican restaurants ... a good first step would be Cisco's. Next would be the taco stand at 6th and Chicon (Yeah I'm never going to shut up about that place. It's going to be the next blog post I promise).<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /></div></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-34296880628894160672009-09-02T22:40:00.000-07:002009-09-02T23:22:27.020-07:00Aux Anciens CanadiensMy family and I visited <a href="http://www.auxancienscanadiens.qc.ca/Homeang.html">Aux Anciens Canadiens</a> in Quebec City ... it's a tourist haven, but that's because it's actually really good with real historical value. The food is inspired by food that was eaten by the first Canadian settlers, much of it focusing on game. I'm really weird about eating strange meat usually, but I step outside my comfort zone every now and then when I feel that it's necessary!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVLQxJPAg523nuvGVOqMhUIp2SvgYlq9oFWlBeyRtEQ_WxO0fwu-GpOXlIdv6bY-rB155-X6Oyi4yKXBvVStA9Z5iyQxahXHjBpVK1rG5_tx9lIeIOaWEdta_DISdPnaSiAzMJ5FO74zo/s1600-h/canada9z5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVLQxJPAg523nuvGVOqMhUIp2SvgYlq9oFWlBeyRtEQ_WxO0fwu-GpOXlIdv6bY-rB155-X6Oyi4yKXBvVStA9Z5iyQxahXHjBpVK1rG5_tx9lIeIOaWEdta_DISdPnaSiAzMJ5FO74zo/s400/canada9z5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377113608900058594" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Country Platter (Quebec meat pie, meatball ragout, salt pork grillades, baked beans)</span><br />My favorite part of this dish was the Quebec meat pie. I think the meat pie was made of lamb meat, but I'm not positive. They served it with a fruit relish that kind of tasted like syrupy canned fruit, pretty much. That paired with the meat pie was this amazing explosion of flavors in my mouth that I never imagined possible. It was SO good. The soft, fibery texture of the meat with the flaky crust paired with the sweetness of the fruit was awesome. I feel like this would make an amazing empanada. A peaches and minced meat empanada. It sounds gross, but I promise... once perfected, it will be empanada gold.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqigbLSsujIAZmgSxMGYgXfCs5p0ANXIJnXNgVsv44cMV4Nn-dqNR3kwKZI-BRiV4vujzO6BcLHo9SKJAXT8HwhnmkvnDgbFUmUerTg0GCEv8JMPw37u5npX1ayDstyrDC4qOwkVkzqov/s1600-h/canada9z6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqigbLSsujIAZmgSxMGYgXfCs5p0ANXIJnXNgVsv44cMV4Nn-dqNR3kwKZI-BRiV4vujzO6BcLHo9SKJAXT8HwhnmkvnDgbFUmUerTg0GCEv8JMPw37u5npX1ayDstyrDC4qOwkVkzqov/s400/canada9z6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377113614015048754" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Maple Syrup Pie w/ Fresh Cream<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span></span>I was afraid this would be way too sweet, but it actually wasn't too bad. The filling had a little crunch to it that reminded me of the top of a creme brulee. <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBliV6YFhNJc3Ie8Klrd1sDkxw_vJRTOBLGIl5qODmE3PZRNQqiCAnsParsyZg0A83hdYkGwO6K1cIo37ayXtyh5mwOjVn0EA9UNkBxcZ610xmTgtuxaVhoukipKarKzAkF_JkQeoAgGfi/s1600-h/canada9z7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBliV6YFhNJc3Ie8Klrd1sDkxw_vJRTOBLGIl5qODmE3PZRNQqiCAnsParsyZg0A83hdYkGwO6K1cIo37ayXtyh5mwOjVn0EA9UNkBxcZ610xmTgtuxaVhoukipKarKzAkF_JkQeoAgGfi/s400/canada9z7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377113623513061618" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Grandmother's chocolate cake with sweet cream</span><br />Is it possible to have a bad chocolate cake? Especially one that looks like this? That's all I have to say about it. Haha.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Anyway, I hope to be updating soon about more local restaurants now that I'm back in Austin! I'm pretty busy with school and work and my internship and life ... but I can always make time for food! :) I want to try <span style="font-weight: bold;">Justine's</span> and I also found out yesterday that I won a gift certificate to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Eddie V's</span> ... so I'll probably be making a trip there soon as well. Plus <span style="font-weight: bold;">Austin Restaurant Week</span>... what's the news on that?<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /></div></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-80520998325843391092009-08-30T13:34:00.001-07:002009-08-30T13:52:06.519-07:00Mother's Dumplings - just like mommy'sI've recently just come back from a trip to Canada and whilst I was there ... I found an awesome hole-in-the-wall place in Toronto's Chinatown: <a href="http://www.mothersdumplings.com/">Mother's Dumplings</a>. I don't know where all the foodies in Canada go and didn't really know how to find out either. Anytime you searched anything in Google with any tag words similar to: food, Toronto, good, popular, local, etc. it always came up with some tourist crap. Therefore, our stomachs ended up fending for themselves... thankfully because we found Mother's Dumplings, hurrah!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2662/3856987285_bf1fa4e829_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 533px; height: 800px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2662/3856987285_bf1fa4e829_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>This restaurant was a tiny and pretty much underground. I don't think most people would go there if they were tourists wandering around Chinatown. Most would probably go to some 24 hr Dim Sum place named Golden Dragon or Lotus Pearl... but let me tell you, the real treasure is at 79 Huron St. where you can find yourself some good homemade traditional Chinese cooking. It truly is hard to find dumplings in a restaurant that aren't previously frozen... so this is a winner.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2481/3856987207_6829ed766c_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2481/3856987207_6829ed766c_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Boiled pork and chive dumplings<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span><br />Nice and juicy dumplings that were just the right size. The dough was perfectly cooked ... usually you can tell if it is undercooked because the dough will be chewy. It should pretty much just melt in your mouth and fall off of the meat when you bite into it... releasing the flavor and juice. Once dipped in some soy sauce or chinese vinegar mixed w/ sriracha, you're golden.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2523/3856987161_2dbc8a2b4a_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2523/3856987161_2dbc8a2b4a_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Green onion pancake</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have come across 2 different kinds of green onion pancake. One kind is really huge and flat and greasy w/more of an onion flavor. The other is thicker and cakey like this one with more of a doughy flavor rather than onion. I prefer this kind because its not as messy and it's easier to dip into other things (I like dipping mine into warm sweetened soy milk). Not my most favorite green onion pancake ever, but still very very good.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2489/3856987105_edff8f017e_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2489/3856987105_edff8f017e_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Steamed vegetarian dumplings: bok choy, mushroom, and tofu</span></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">These were my favorite dumplings that we ordered. I don't normally appreciate vegetarian dumplings because a lot of the time they use spinach and then it just tastes like a bunch of soggy spinach... but they used different ingredients in this variation and it had great texture and taste.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Definitely check this place out if you live in that area or find yourself visiting!<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /></div></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-16503687816208628062009-08-17T18:38:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:02:54.676-07:00Gumbo'sSo my new internship comes with certain perks, including going to these fun food blogger events such as this one hosted by Gumbo's.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOFjwSU_0z-e9E813q9zFAXDIW04CB0i0OdGLZyvlrDue2yh992FTfyc9wJ1yG3IOUmYCNsois-ByNuHHafx0iL4azPapntateHRIqQKJCJ33Sj2XOna5Vobu8v51VTNmHC2oUpJh7O72/s1600-h/gumbos3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOFjwSU_0z-e9E813q9zFAXDIW04CB0i0OdGLZyvlrDue2yh992FTfyc9wJ1yG3IOUmYCNsois-ByNuHHafx0iL4azPapntateHRIqQKJCJ33Sj2XOna5Vobu8v51VTNmHC2oUpJh7O72/s400/gumbos3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371112514580656578" border="0" /></a><br />This martini that I can't remember the name of was way too strong for my taste. In addition, the sugar encrusted rim was distracting and annoying. I think this is a good example of presentation overkill.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxZnw7aw5981tiKlX-pFmfC8IVDBKx26ZuZKuO5K4f_8Kq8wISDDXSYo_VMUB_CyVJGsrCaV3CXaAJlZv684n92JG30PnSfRJ6RJ0UjFAg5MGOTSJCDiPPaoTm1Brqiw5KApnBeYiE4Zd/s1600-h/gumbos1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxZnw7aw5981tiKlX-pFmfC8IVDBKx26ZuZKuO5K4f_8Kq8wISDDXSYo_VMUB_CyVJGsrCaV3CXaAJlZv684n92JG30PnSfRJ6RJ0UjFAg5MGOTSJCDiPPaoTm1Brqiw5KApnBeYiE4Zd/s400/gumbos1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371112617398746434" border="0" /></a>This crab cake was great! The sauce reminded me of the spicy mayo that many sushi places use. I'm wondering if it is the same thing ... generally, they use Japanese mayo mixed with Sriracha. It looked and tasted the same. I thought it was great with the crab cake.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuElQKgpcdlN7_6QE7oGYyHdflW47muAVz020a6MVq5QZ6mGJTKV9_-D_e2wV36fRt7lDuDbtfpbDrG8ikOXKb8L2EKnccibb0ZhoWZUXqGJCJYVWRzxJSyPApYMfEdWa7fbM4Iti94Dc9/s1600-h/gumbos2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuElQKgpcdlN7_6QE7oGYyHdflW47muAVz020a6MVq5QZ6mGJTKV9_-D_e2wV36fRt7lDuDbtfpbDrG8ikOXKb8L2EKnccibb0ZhoWZUXqGJCJYVWRzxJSyPApYMfEdWa7fbM4Iti94Dc9/s400/gumbos2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371112521054212082" border="0" /></a><br />I generally don't like mussels or oysters but this was really good. The oyster was barely noticeable, which is the way I like it.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaCdQLBQ27KsBM_JJwvFVoZPkG6ZntQBBDJrx5dwyZoU3g5SWYkB9K2CoZFbFRv6i-V7YWT5009s_BEZHhzO04lHTj1OPozxcPs6A4cu_2qQr0oZub9gSspOstUXaus3u7fVM_c-EJfh6/s1600-h/gumbos4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 247px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRaCdQLBQ27KsBM_JJwvFVoZPkG6ZntQBBDJrx5dwyZoU3g5SWYkB9K2CoZFbFRv6i-V7YWT5009s_BEZHhzO04lHTj1OPozxcPs6A4cu_2qQr0oZub9gSspOstUXaus3u7fVM_c-EJfh6/s400/gumbos4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371112505471029314" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">It seemed that the grand consensus on this dish was the excellence of the sauce. It was excellent, haha. The redfish itself was rather bland and forgettable. Not to mention, I just feel like blackened foods is probably the worst thing you can do to food (sorry, I'm at a Cajun restaurant... obviously this should be expected, but whatever)... why would you want to slightly burn food? I would only do that to a smore.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcevHUecCUS6SlmCBXr_9lJxXWTlBjYlNJB0fM0WYh5weD7cWpaK1dmUjMoeqBXbnbuuVP1fd9P30aNvqFquA9-Ky5iNnTWAM3dXR3FaOuDKaTgAiJwC5IanlKPkjdU6BiDPRuoIisOYJX/s1600-h/gumbos5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcevHUecCUS6SlmCBXr_9lJxXWTlBjYlNJB0fM0WYh5weD7cWpaK1dmUjMoeqBXbnbuuVP1fd9P30aNvqFquA9-Ky5iNnTWAM3dXR3FaOuDKaTgAiJwC5IanlKPkjdU6BiDPRuoIisOYJX/s400/gumbos5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371112489488776594" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This slice of steak was really good, except for the fact that I only had a fork that couldn't cut this large slice of meat... so I had to stuff it in my mouth and look like a complete pig in front of a bunch of other elite foodists ... great for them, bad for me!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_PEzLA-hz30AdbaEZcCxq6mrzgZx-BA6eok2Io2CRv8zBBeuVNlyv6lXXYpWdO4FbH02YbH91O7-R1EnQYzN5xgqPUy67_hv_gMM55JI3sqf5FJq0IBK_0KrE9ZIAy3WYZd_wjaTO_ixC/s1600-h/gumbos6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_PEzLA-hz30AdbaEZcCxq6mrzgZx-BA6eok2Io2CRv8zBBeuVNlyv6lXXYpWdO4FbH02YbH91O7-R1EnQYzN5xgqPUy67_hv_gMM55JI3sqf5FJq0IBK_0KrE9ZIAy3WYZd_wjaTO_ixC/s400/gumbos6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371112481247135074" border="0" /></a><br />Great bread pudding, but how can you really make bad bread pudding. I mean, if you make bread pudding and keep it warm and put some ice cream on top, I think anyone will like it unless they're retarded.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Those are my thoughts. If you want Cajun, definitely go check this place out because I'm not sure where else to go in Austin! I've heard of the opening of Shuck Shack on E. Cesar Chavez, but have yet to hear much else about it! I'm excited to try it out when I get back from maple leaf land.<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /></div></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-77734661917184655512009-08-10T20:10:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:02:54.676-07:00We Fuse is Le Fresh!I went with my friend Karinne to WeFuse last Friday before going to the Drafthouse to catch Julie & Julia, which was adorable by the way ... and we caught them before they closed! Turns out Jon, the owner, is Karinne's friend and he treated us to some pleasingly fresh dishes. I forget how good fresh fruit and veggies are. Why?!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3509/3803138410_67e6a188dc_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3509/3803138410_67e6a188dc_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Karinne ordered this Pear, Walnut, and Blue Cheese salad ... I had a few nibbles and wow. First of all, all the salad is definitely a bang for your buck. Second of all, the pairing of all the flavors topped with balsalmic vinaigrette (probably my favorite salad dressing) was awesome. I don't think of salads as healthy options. I think of them as real deal meals cuz they are darn good!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3499/3803138348_405fd489fa_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3499/3803138348_405fd489fa_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I ordered the Tuna Tataki with Avocado, Cucumber, and Seaweed Salad. Wow! Do you see that red sliver of sauce? Yeah, that's right ... it's Sriracha. And as all humans should know, Sriracha is an ingredient that should be integrated into everyone's diet. Why? Because it makes everything taste that much better, seriously. But anyway, the seaweed salad was just right. The cucumbers added a nice crunch to the softness of the fresh tuna. And the avocado was a nice textural balance as well ... kind of like sushi without the rice and seaweed paper ... and much bigger. Ha.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3569/3802322839_4919b0c600_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 533px; height: 800px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3569/3802322839_4919b0c600_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />And finally, a non grape sangria! It's watermelon grapefruit sangria! Yeah, dude. This is gold. I think they make different fresh fruit juices/sangrias/concoctions every now and then ... and I'm not sure if they are on the menu or if they are free or if they are just ... secret? But yeah, definitely ask and see if they have this when you go!<br /><br />Anyway, We Fuse is open generally for lunch. He said it gets packed in there, so I'd go early and snag a seat as the place isn't that big. It's located downtown at 2nd and Brazos. Get it.<br /><br />--<br /><br />PLEASE listen to this. It's amazing. This band is.<br /><a href="http://www.daytracing.com/storage/songs/KingTuff-SunMedallion.mp3">King Tuff - Sun Medallion</a><br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-36872328154661068262009-08-02T19:36:00.000-07:002009-09-03T21:33:08.865-07:00Where is the spiciest salsa in Austin?<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKZ0t4NH-VWcjxvqMcxA2X9eo0_TxzldrH9QIgL2jeiCs5-VMaKgV3XqOJjcWBtFMLMoFuIkM_PLZqB5nPEmUB2NePXUUiDepgwl8h9ZhjeRh6QnXGlMNu2B03FjubHGEX4sTE8tvXTNz/s1600-h/aug9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKZ0t4NH-VWcjxvqMcxA2X9eo0_TxzldrH9QIgL2jeiCs5-VMaKgV3XqOJjcWBtFMLMoFuIkM_PLZqB5nPEmUB2NePXUUiDepgwl8h9ZhjeRh6QnXGlMNu2B03FjubHGEX4sTE8tvXTNz/s400/aug9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365561619706641282" border="0" /></a>The English translation for this dim sum dish doesn't sound very appetizing (turnip cake).<br />But it is the best! This one is from Get Sum Dim Sum on N. Lamar.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHbFO7WJTMLHbfDPM24jgkq0Zfi28u5dg4Ci25vHm7q_uuOhmMJpbc4vnh4LESydfusBYncN0hCD_7YcnrUddlouqaXXuVcXnprbB8K9xiVpZMivUt9JCYtJgAqfDqYqaHpr2q1WBLFD_/s1600-h/aug5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHbFO7WJTMLHbfDPM24jgkq0Zfi28u5dg4Ci25vHm7q_uuOhmMJpbc4vnh4LESydfusBYncN0hCD_7YcnrUddlouqaXXuVcXnprbB8K9xiVpZMivUt9JCYtJgAqfDqYqaHpr2q1WBLFD_/s400/aug5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365561613657255986" border="0" /></a><br />Tacos Selene on 7th & Chicon has THE spiciest salsa. it is the green creamy salsa.<br />Tacodeli has nothing on this salsa... nothing. Not to mention, this place is extra close to all those<br />hip new bars on the East side, especially Liberty. It's open until like 3 am and it is amazing. Love. Cash only, obviously.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibgTvJOPAxyVkmcehE2PsQR9d82b5QxHTQwe629h0oujyvfwI5pBe0239uyHLWt5LPxk0csKjWuUaItC0-7wSf1XSME98uSlhwM0Iadhb8d_AAJtqLx2CfUaeAuHPysNi0ji6AT0y9qcr6/s1600-h/aug4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibgTvJOPAxyVkmcehE2PsQR9d82b5QxHTQwe629h0oujyvfwI5pBe0239uyHLWt5LPxk0csKjWuUaItC0-7wSf1XSME98uSlhwM0Iadhb8d_AAJtqLx2CfUaeAuHPysNi0ji6AT0y9qcr6/s400/aug4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365561612159498722" border="0" /></a>Thinking of putting my cat on the South Beach Diet.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9legQTJr2Jeqz86WJJ2mZ5UrUyPT-J9aSPmVDVgBwd43dV2FKs3POIKMJ95jpNw1ed_CAOkB_3B4gQ4ji3t-oxT_KokRZH5FHnSUS1-155oLIwOBExoK-gAaAB1ukAJgqxyZhlI03luM/s1600-h/aug3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9legQTJr2Jeqz86WJJ2mZ5UrUyPT-J9aSPmVDVgBwd43dV2FKs3POIKMJ95jpNw1ed_CAOkB_3B4gQ4ji3t-oxT_KokRZH5FHnSUS1-155oLIwOBExoK-gAaAB1ukAJgqxyZhlI03luM/s400/aug3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365561601547396530" border="0" /></a><br />I get bored when I go home to Plano. This is my old room I had in high school. Yeah, wow. But I am in LOVE with these amazing Samantha Pleet shorts I got from Buy Definition. They are amazing. And the creme crop top is also my favorite new article of clothing from AA.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE38w_44AkOQ20qqqaIoyFkaINVZeo51-xX4uQgWtaeexQtpVfeK1qIXZ4yl9uegPG_44hv3jJ2tN3CUZ4zQ10CRr3jqO-ot0rmW9QWACVrD9OEb_CB2bUwIYCVqqirsatJJAwjYTjomgp/s1600-h/aug1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE38w_44AkOQ20qqqaIoyFkaINVZeo51-xX4uQgWtaeexQtpVfeK1qIXZ4yl9uegPG_44hv3jJ2tN3CUZ4zQ10CRr3jqO-ot0rmW9QWACVrD9OEb_CB2bUwIYCVqqirsatJJAwjYTjomgp/s400/aug1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365561600319872866" border="0" /></a>Pretty flowers, yay. :)<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /><br /><br /></div></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-89204196238078479982009-06-25T23:55:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:02:54.676-07:00Frozen Bananas and Kitties<br></br>All this rage about frozen bananas plus the 105 degree Texas weather inspired Kathryn and I to make our own fro-nanas.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3415/3661471733_d0bf531ee0_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3415/3661471733_d0bf531ee0_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Dip it in the chocolate...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3662/3662271652_5851a3871d_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3662/3662271652_5851a3871d_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Sprinkle on the toppings...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3372/3661471703_ee7f6ce2ae_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3372/3661471703_ee7f6ce2ae_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Kathryn's frozen banana<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3412/3661471745_fb3f886e9d_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3412/3661471745_fb3f886e9d_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>My frozen banana. Looks like a pee pee hehe.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3411/3662271624_7ec0bb42f3_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3411/3662271624_7ec0bb42f3_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Charlie.<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-45801128146430370792009-06-22T21:47:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:02:54.677-07:00San Francisco in a NutshellAfter having woken up at 4 am on Friday to catch our flight, we treated ourselves to an excellent brunch at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brenda's French Soul Food</span> while we waited to check in at our hotel. I pretty much found all the restaurants we planned to eat at through Yelp, which is based in San Francisco. I think working for Yelp would be an ideal job for me ... hm ... I can see it now.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3366/3653215610_c8748110a9_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3366/3653215610_c8748110a9_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3414/3653215626_87596283c1_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3414/3653215626_87596283c1_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Anyway, Brenda's is supposed to be famous for their hearty breakfasts, especially their grits. But to be honest, what swept me off my feet was the biscuit! It was so fluffy/flaky/buttery/crumblinginyourfingers/meltinginyourmouth ... perfection of a biscuit. We were very pleased. :)<br /><br />We decided to be touristy and go to Fisherman's Wharf ... which was actually kind of fun.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2468/3652418735_93481b3a56_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2468/3652418735_93481b3a56_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Anyone who knows me well knows I have a fascination with pigeons/seagulls/dead birds.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2439/3652418709_8ce685f32e_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2439/3652418709_8ce685f32e_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Mmm, fresh calamari.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3357/3652418845_7208af3221_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3357/3652418845_7208af3221_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Sea lions. So strange.<br /><br />Then we head up to the Marina District ... pass through the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Exploratorium</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Crissy Park</span> (what is that place?) ... and then hike up to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Golden Gate Bridge</span> ... on Kris's request. I was merely his slave. I probably burned more calories that day than I ate ...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2482/3653215080_fa9988563a_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2482/3653215080_fa9988563a_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Cold water!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3365/3652419205_44904ed215_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3365/3652419205_44904ed215_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Still so far to go ...<br /><br />The night ended with dinner at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sushi Zone</span> in the Castro... it supposedly has the best sushi in SF and it's all reasonably priced. $5.50 for most rolls? Yes? And we saw Thao Nguyen there! We waited more than 2 hours but it was worth it. I recommended the Hawaiian Roll. Who knew macadamia nuts could taste so good on sushi?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3569/3652419323_71f69e01c2_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 533px; height: 800px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3569/3652419323_71f69e01c2_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Chinatown on Saturday after eating a decent lunch at <span style="font-weight: bold;">R&G Chinese Restaurant</span> and getting some BBQ Pork buns and Chinese style rice krispies. Yummy.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2460/3653215344_b6a08c4dee_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2460/3653215344_b6a08c4dee_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>On the trolley down to Union Square for some shopping.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3612/3652419393_e4acacb924_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3612/3652419393_e4acacb924_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Dinner at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Little Star </span>in the Mission. Supposedly the best thin crust pizza? Seemed like most people were getting deep dish though. I think pizza in Austin is better. Buscemi @ Eastside Pies. Yes. And Conan's. Yes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3391/3652419435_1bf234ba61_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3391/3652419435_1bf234ba61_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>On the way to do some thrifting and eat lunch at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Taqueria Can-Cun</span> we see Frances Hotel! Yay. Then we head over to do some more shopping in the Haight Ashbury area ... no pictures oops. And then we got some excellent shabu with my cousins at Mr. Shabu ... which was mmm.<br /><br />Vacation over.<br /><br />Boo.<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-59802784405269145582009-06-15T15:41:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:02:54.677-07:00Tamale House: Recession Migas<br></br>After reading reviews on this joint via Yelp, I had to go check it out with my friend Kathryn. Someone described them as having the best migas in town ... and I had to go see for myself. Besides that, they have super super super super cheap breakfast tacos. I mean $.85 a taco. And they get them out fast.<br /><br />So alas, my migas...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2425/3630677116_cd6c8de19d_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2425/3630677116_cd6c8de19d_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3368/3630677156_d9fff87fbd_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3368/3630677156_d9fff87fbd_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />I call them Recession Migas because they came with 3 tortillas, and after making 3 migas tacos out of that, my plate still looked like the above pictures. I barely made a dent and I was stuffed. At first they weren't my favorite because they were a little soupy ... and I like my migas drier. I also prefer black beans to refried beans ... but those were still good. And the potatoes were nice and peppery. But after eating them as leftovers, I decided they tasted a lot better than I remembered ... not that they ever tasted bad. Maybe I was just hungrier? Or maybe it was just too hot outside? Or maybe I was just too shocked by the gargantuous amount of migas handed to me the first time around. Anyway, they are recommended. Still not my favorite ... but a great cheap filling brunch for sure.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3415/3630677188_2df736a5f3_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3415/3630677188_2df736a5f3_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: justify;">To make the experience sweeter, this guy came up and gave Kathryn a cupcake ... thanking her for her beauty, hahaha. This wasn't a cupcake he made himself, don't worry. Tamale House sells homemade cupcakes as well, ha.<br /><br />Where should I go get migas next?!<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-35577398001716115482009-06-13T10:21:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:02:54.677-07:00Mamboberry: SoCo's foodstand cure for heatstroke<br></br>Austin has been swept with froyo... forget TCBY on MLK ... who goes there anymore? That is fake froyo. I'm talking about real froyo like Yogurt Planet and newly opened Swirll on The Drag. But you know what has been around the longest? None other than <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mamboberry</span>! I first caught wind of this place from my coworker at Sweet Leaf last semester while I was interning there ... but never got the chance to check the place out. Now that they've permanently planted themselves on South Congress next to the other foodstands such as Hey Cupcake! and The Mighty Cone and it's goddamn hot outside ... I decided to give them a try.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3357/3622761074_1dfb473fae_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3357/3622761074_1dfb473fae_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>our Mamboberrys ... I got green tea w/ cap'n crunch, blueberries, and chocolate chips. She got tart w/ cap'n crunch and strawberries.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3663/3622761034_eaa657b746_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3663/3622761034_eaa657b746_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>the Mamboberry menu ... they have tamales too?! yep. And if their no egg tofu salad sandwich is the same as Jo's, I can vouch for its goodness.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3302/3621943199_48b3eac79d_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 533px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3302/3621943199_48b3eac79d_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Do you see that ungodly amount of toppings? Do you want to know why? It's because if you mentioned their twitter, you got unlimited toppings. yes!<br /><br />Follow them <a href="http://www.twitter.com/mamboberry">@mamboberry</a> and get amazing deals such as free toppings, $1 off, combo deals<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I'm definitely going to be going to this place a ton more now that I work down there almost everyday during the week ... score. I heart you Mamboberry!<br /><br />x,<br /><br />Franny<br /></div><br /></div>franceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-34438400439951798272009-06-06T19:16:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:02:54.677-07:00Tacodeli<br></br><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3641/3602463652_fae41b9781_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3641/3602463652_fae41b9781_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>mmm, good saturday.<br /><br />but is tacodeli better than torchy's? i'll have to try it again to make a real decision.<br /><br />x,<br /><br />frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762340606253619378.post-19570839673460678232009-05-25T10:53:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:02:54.677-07:00Detouring America With Horns<br></br><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTY15pBrKlAF4RakbYA5gZ_rsf6cqNkx9LM5R9y-aAzbbAA183yYe_S_gQKnVy42BSHaxOE_1StE_6drF1zD8dNLIs2h3jk7KtX5XqGvrEcG6OvwubB5PTfQpQ5ZAOgLvJFSDYF6iTpbdC/s1600-h/moonshine8.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTY15pBrKlAF4RakbYA5gZ_rsf6cqNkx9LM5R9y-aAzbbAA183yYe_S_gQKnVy42BSHaxOE_1StE_6drF1zD8dNLIs2h3jk7KtX5XqGvrEcG6OvwubB5PTfQpQ5ZAOgLvJFSDYF6iTpbdC/s400/moonshine8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339822612366372226" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Mb9SyeeIblQnXKPol83Fw9iBrem2GAVT4ungeIrealeGCsyD5ZvAz9nyyAMehGGYPpNuB09cT-wvW-n4d5dvidnh1RYnODe4gDJ5df4Tblb6cZrw9XjMM8M_T7O4v3sJYd1UI2AUQ6WI/s1600-h/may1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Mb9SyeeIblQnXKPol83Fw9iBrem2GAVT4ungeIrealeGCsyD5ZvAz9nyyAMehGGYPpNuB09cT-wvW-n4d5dvidnh1RYnODe4gDJ5df4Tblb6cZrw9XjMM8M_T7O4v3sJYd1UI2AUQ6WI/s400/may1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339822606447130706" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLq9tqlq5r0g1evDmxK7v8KYoGq4ESLtOjWwh2sV27Qq9VeK3v0ZMHKH5Oc6HQoT8JBrFTNtEQYXhg9PhMsnAZfUF5Wox5w2fwFTk88kgKWp7cXApZYTAtkY8PcZexf79h-tUsyhnYDvQ/s1600-h/may2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLq9tqlq5r0g1evDmxK7v8KYoGq4ESLtOjWwh2sV27Qq9VeK3v0ZMHKH5Oc6HQoT8JBrFTNtEQYXhg9PhMsnAZfUF5Wox5w2fwFTk88kgKWp7cXApZYTAtkY8PcZexf79h-tUsyhnYDvQ/s400/may2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339822601434290610" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWF1SJzdoV9JARxZrYT92zCM2WVefDbO7sORdFM2QPnAlzZ0K14yyV-aABAHCGWNfvlE27r1LyExGQRFmU-4U7y54MlR5BYtczmJwkaf8wB7E5cBmFvXa-WAS-BTd-0qQrF5myj9eXBljY/s1600-h/may3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWF1SJzdoV9JARxZrYT92zCM2WVefDbO7sORdFM2QPnAlzZ0K14yyV-aABAHCGWNfvlE27r1LyExGQRFmU-4U7y54MlR5BYtczmJwkaf8wB7E5cBmFvXa-WAS-BTd-0qQrF5myj9eXBljY/s400/may3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339822168951977634" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KG3-S0RgbXjrSQ_jFh610kXKM7PkFrIBdcERO85mVPRDowTgVMqtVGV6Z0W7MHucBGDG57itxC3fqwHlg5o5VD50nnQ-leX99P-UxucpkS_7z546P3lbNruhI66cCE9kUbbIZ8NvjET3/s1600-h/may4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KG3-S0RgbXjrSQ_jFh610kXKM7PkFrIBdcERO85mVPRDowTgVMqtVGV6Z0W7MHucBGDG57itxC3fqwHlg5o5VD50nnQ-leX99P-UxucpkS_7z546P3lbNruhI66cCE9kUbbIZ8NvjET3/s400/may4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339822162269043186" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAyyvJryeoUFh9FrlKBScuoxzZXDAOj975xyvTWUVVU5AjzUc4mmbrLfN0HMKftROZgVCyYZOWZsAh-PpDkAt6UlP4bM8ZwiyYkOiRvuY9IMOS6OKf2yAn58j5g_NPyvTaEN_GGKiGfrLy/s1600-h/may5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAyyvJryeoUFh9FrlKBScuoxzZXDAOj975xyvTWUVVU5AjzUc4mmbrLfN0HMKftROZgVCyYZOWZsAh-PpDkAt6UlP4bM8ZwiyYkOiRvuY9IMOS6OKf2yAn58j5g_NPyvTaEN_GGKiGfrLy/s400/may5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339822160988559074" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvs9GluMvha9kZQU4H-xP7lWbRD52AF73BVckHXsH3VNtZXQtslaVGlceEoZFMxfejjuDscLdwv8-7TCctwP3o-O6iagQ7ZHsDqEcJwLqa2Wx8zsC9lU6fJK8BLYhXipajlomlGzw3GkUp/s1600-h/may6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvs9GluMvha9kZQU4H-xP7lWbRD52AF73BVckHXsH3VNtZXQtslaVGlceEoZFMxfejjuDscLdwv8-7TCctwP3o-O6iagQ7ZHsDqEcJwLqa2Wx8zsC9lU6fJK8BLYhXipajlomlGzw3GkUp/s400/may6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339822155167941746" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QJzNaR3vBWOqUsuSe6zHQpR8u60hRW_kB9fINk2SyHOKaOAhxQjCV-0I_SVYs7xJPtava2tvBoMr9uz0KOS7jdFoqP7QlDFV_xcGVLZcS2TSpxEouwFOIr9ZC0QdBnh5PK6W_023Zneo/s1600-h/may8.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QJzNaR3vBWOqUsuSe6zHQpR8u60hRW_kB9fINk2SyHOKaOAhxQjCV-0I_SVYs7xJPtava2tvBoMr9uz0KOS7jdFoqP7QlDFV_xcGVLZcS2TSpxEouwFOIr9ZC0QdBnh5PK6W_023Zneo/s400/may8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339822149643798226" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">flamingos // charlie high on catnip // seoul garden soup dumplings, kalbi, korean pancake // le mixmaster // sensual pool at hotel saint cecilia // fishtank at el gallo</span><br /><br />x,<br /><br />frannyfranceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16362469290383711614noreply@blogger.com0