81539 US Hwy 111
Indio, CA 92201
We stopped at Sloan's after a long day driving and were hoping for a decent dinner. What we received far exceeded our expectations.
We had hardly been seated when our waitress arrived with menus and offering to take drink orders. Not only were the drinks brought quickly, but were refilled as often as necessary during our meal.
The menu is large and looks extremely appetizing. I especially appreciated the creativity in their dishes. Instead of the same tired items that one finds on most menus, they have added spices, or ingredients to liven them up.
I chose the special of the night, which was a beef stroganoff made with prime rib. Companion ordered the pork chop which came with two sides.
In due course, a large plate appeared that was filled to the top with my stroganoff. Instead of mixing the sour cream into the gravy, they chose to put he gravy and meat on top of the noodles, and then placed a large dollop of sour cream as the crown. As crazy as it may sound, the meat was real prime rib, cut into good sized chunks, and plenty of it. I enjoyed the sour cream as an accompaniment to the dish instead of having the whole dish swimming in it.
Companion had a nice pork chop, with homemade garlic bread, mashed potatoes, and corn.
Portions are very large, and good sanitation was very apparent. Food was seasoned perfectly, and service was quick and always with a smile.
While I may have gained a pound eating this meal, it was well worth it. Highly recommended.
5 Stars
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Black Bear Diner #1 - Mt. Shasta
We were passing through Shasta, California and the opportunity to eat at Black Bear Diner number one was presented. With the wait for a table, I decided to avail myself of the restroom. There are two, and they are both unisex. The previous user was a man, and he left his calling card all over the floor and on the seat. I was forced to clean up with a paper towel from the dispenser, but the trash can was overflowing, and I had to add to the pile on the floor.
On exiting, our table was ready and we were seated at a sixtop instead of a normal table. Drinks were ordered, and the waitress brought the wrong drinks. She said she could not remember what was ordered for drinks, so she just brought what she thought might have been ordered.
Next, main courses were ordered. I ordered a patty melt with coleslaw, and companion ordered a small steak with mashed potatoes and green beans.
The patty melt was brought out after an interminable wait and not only was the bread burnt but so was the patty. There was absolutely not one drop of seasoning on the patty melt. As for the coleslaw it had no dressing on it. The waitress finally brought out a dish of a sweet pink substance she called dressing. I also asked for some mayonnaise to make the dressing more palatable. In all the years I have done tastings, (more than 17) I have never before had coleslaw with a pink dressing on it. Essentially my meal was almost inedible. When the waitress was asked about the lack of seasoning, she retorted that some customers don't like seasoning, so they don't use any anymore!
As for companions steak, it was left unfinished because it was dry and overcooked and once again had absolutely not one drop of seasoning on it. Companions mashed potatoes were literally dumped on the plate and smothered in a gravy that was supposed to be beef flavored but created many doubts. It was gelatinous and did not look at all appetizing. The green beans were flaccid and dark green having been sitting I'm sure, in a pot for hours.
Service was extraordinarily slow by any standard. As far as sanitation goes, companions silverware appeared to have been used by someone else first, and had to be replaced twice because the replacement was also dirty.
I have evaluated many Black Bear Diners and most of them have been given either three or four stars. For this one I can only give a rating of one star. Perhaps it is time to close down Black Bear number one and turn it into a museum or something else. The food here is not on par with any other black bear I have ever eaten in. I cannot recommend people eat in this establishment.
On exiting, our table was ready and we were seated at a sixtop instead of a normal table. Drinks were ordered, and the waitress brought the wrong drinks. She said she could not remember what was ordered for drinks, so she just brought what she thought might have been ordered.
Next, main courses were ordered. I ordered a patty melt with coleslaw, and companion ordered a small steak with mashed potatoes and green beans.
The patty melt was brought out after an interminable wait and not only was the bread burnt but so was the patty. There was absolutely not one drop of seasoning on the patty melt. As for the coleslaw it had no dressing on it. The waitress finally brought out a dish of a sweet pink substance she called dressing. I also asked for some mayonnaise to make the dressing more palatable. In all the years I have done tastings, (more than 17) I have never before had coleslaw with a pink dressing on it. Essentially my meal was almost inedible. When the waitress was asked about the lack of seasoning, she retorted that some customers don't like seasoning, so they don't use any anymore!
As for companions steak, it was left unfinished because it was dry and overcooked and once again had absolutely not one drop of seasoning on it. Companions mashed potatoes were literally dumped on the plate and smothered in a gravy that was supposed to be beef flavored but created many doubts. It was gelatinous and did not look at all appetizing. The green beans were flaccid and dark green having been sitting I'm sure, in a pot for hours.
Service was extraordinarily slow by any standard. As far as sanitation goes, companions silverware appeared to have been used by someone else first, and had to be replaced twice because the replacement was also dirty.
I have evaluated many Black Bear Diners and most of them have been given either three or four stars. For this one I can only give a rating of one star. Perhaps it is time to close down Black Bear number one and turn it into a museum or something else. The food here is not on par with any other black bear I have ever eaten in. I cannot recommend people eat in this establishment.
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Zinburger
Zinburger
344 N Gilbert Rd
Gilbert, AZ 85234
We had 6:00 reservations, and on our arrival noted that the place was packed and people were waiting in line. Our reservation time was honored and we were seated within a few minutes.
Zinburger is a chain of over 200 sports bars across the nation. While a bit noisy, as many sports bars are, service was excellent and the food was quite good. It has the appearance of an old garage complete with roll up doors (which were open on this night), and has seating both inside and on t he patio. This is a very "hip" joint!
Companion #1 had a birthday, and ordered the Wagyu burger, which was cooked exactly as ordered.
Companion #2 and #3 chose from the Arizona Restaurant Week menu. Companion #2 ordered the Zinburger cooked medium well, and instead of being like cardboard, it came out perfectly cooked and with juices running down their arm.
Companion #3 wanted the burger rare, and that is exactly how it came out. The burger was so juicy that it had to be eaten in a napkin to catch all the juice from it along with a second napkin to keep the fingers clean!
I ordered the Caesar Salad, which was quite tasty and nicely made.
It should be noted that all portions served are large. Among the sides ordered were onion rings and breaded and fried zucchini. Neither of them was finished because of the quantity. Onion rings were served with ketchup and barbeque sauce, which was a bit unique.
While most drinks ordered were soft drinks, one Yuzu/Lime Margarita was ordered and shared around the table for tasting. We all agreed that the cocktail was very good, but even better without the salt on the rim of the glass. Drinks were replaced with fresh ones as soon as they got half empty.
Noteworthy was that our server kept checking back with us to see if we needed anything and to make sure we were happy with our meals.
Also noted was that management hired employees that were not afraid to express their lifestyle with their dress and/or looks, and I give kudos to them for that. In this day and age, employees should not have to be afraid that their lifestyle won't allow them to make a living.
While I normally reserve 5 stars for very upscale restaurants, I give 5 stars to this one for service, excellent food, and fantastic human relations.
Highly recommended
344 N Gilbert Rd
Gilbert, AZ 85234
We had 6:00 reservations, and on our arrival noted that the place was packed and people were waiting in line. Our reservation time was honored and we were seated within a few minutes.
Zinburger is a chain of over 200 sports bars across the nation. While a bit noisy, as many sports bars are, service was excellent and the food was quite good. It has the appearance of an old garage complete with roll up doors (which were open on this night), and has seating both inside and on t he patio. This is a very "hip" joint!
Companion #1 had a birthday, and ordered the Wagyu burger, which was cooked exactly as ordered.
Companion #2 and #3 chose from the Arizona Restaurant Week menu. Companion #2 ordered the Zinburger cooked medium well, and instead of being like cardboard, it came out perfectly cooked and with juices running down their arm.
Companion #3 wanted the burger rare, and that is exactly how it came out. The burger was so juicy that it had to be eaten in a napkin to catch all the juice from it along with a second napkin to keep the fingers clean!
I ordered the Caesar Salad, which was quite tasty and nicely made.
It should be noted that all portions served are large. Among the sides ordered were onion rings and breaded and fried zucchini. Neither of them was finished because of the quantity. Onion rings were served with ketchup and barbeque sauce, which was a bit unique.
While most drinks ordered were soft drinks, one Yuzu/Lime Margarita was ordered and shared around the table for tasting. We all agreed that the cocktail was very good, but even better without the salt on the rim of the glass. Drinks were replaced with fresh ones as soon as they got half empty.
Noteworthy was that our server kept checking back with us to see if we needed anything and to make sure we were happy with our meals.
Also noted was that management hired employees that were not afraid to express their lifestyle with their dress and/or looks, and I give kudos to them for that. In this day and age, employees should not have to be afraid that their lifestyle won't allow them to make a living.
While I normally reserve 5 stars for very upscale restaurants, I give 5 stars to this one for service, excellent food, and fantastic human relations.
Highly recommended
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Flemings Chandler
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Chandler, AZ 85226
Companion and I arrived at 5:30 and were seated immediately. Our waiter Byron introduced himself and took our drink order. An Iced Tea and a Shirley Temple. Bread was brought out along with two small cruets, one with salt butter and the other with a house made cream cheese spread with caramelized onions and possibly a touch of Balsamic in it. Delicious!
Even though there was a menu provided for Arizona Restaurant Week, we decided to order off the menu. Companion started with a bowl of Lobster Bisque and I started with the Caesar Salad. Companion had pieces of shell in the bisque, which if nothing else proved it was from a real lobster.
Some dishes should never be tampered with, and my Caesar Salad was one. In all my years reviewing restaurants this was the first and only time I declared a salad inedible and sent it back. It had a very strange flavor and was in no way reminiscent of a Caesar Salad. It was replaced by a bowl of the same Lobster Bisque. It was quite adequate, but could have done with the addition of a bit of sherry or cognac at the table. Companion and I differed on the lobster pieces with myself preferring an actual piece of lobster and companion enjoying the shredded lobster on top. C'est la guerre!
We decided to share an order of Sweet Chili Calamari, which was one of the highlights of the meal. The sweetness was offset by pickled onions and slices of red sweet pepper. A truly great tasting dish. The calamari was nicely tender, but unfortunately, we were brought the calamari and no dishes to eat it off of.
For main courses, companion ordered the Ribeye Steak, done very rare, and I ordered the Pork Tomahawk which is a fat pork chop with a long frenched bone. Sides were Creamed Spinach, Grilled Asparagus, and Mac and Cheese.
Companion did not enjoy the Ribeye because of sinew running through it, though the meat itself was cooked perfectly as ordered.
My Pork Tomahawk was cooked beautifully and was nicely seasoned. It was served according to the newest guidelines that say pork can now be served pink. No more cardboard pork chops! I often order pork chops as a test of the chef's ability to cook to order, as many chefs overcook it until it turns to shoeleather. This chef knows his stuff.
Sides were adequate, though the asparagus could have done with a bit of hollandaise of some fleur de sel on it. I carry my own tin of Maldon Sea Salt for these occasions. Creamed Spinach was topped with shaved parmesan cheese and was acceptable, but no competition at all for Lawry's creamed spinach which is the gold standard. Companion enjoyed the Mac & Cheese stating that this did not come out of a box but was made in house.
As it should be, everything was perfectly clean.
Dings - My pet peeve, that steakhouses should not serve serrated knives because they tear the fibers of the meat. For what this meal cost, steak should be perfectly tender and easily cut with a sharp knife.
Portions were good sized and doggy bags were asked for,.
3 stars for excellent service and decent though not great food
Chandler, AZ 85226
Companion and I arrived at 5:30 and were seated immediately. Our waiter Byron introduced himself and took our drink order. An Iced Tea and a Shirley Temple. Bread was brought out along with two small cruets, one with salt butter and the other with a house made cream cheese spread with caramelized onions and possibly a touch of Balsamic in it. Delicious!
Even though there was a menu provided for Arizona Restaurant Week, we decided to order off the menu. Companion started with a bowl of Lobster Bisque and I started with the Caesar Salad. Companion had pieces of shell in the bisque, which if nothing else proved it was from a real lobster.
Some dishes should never be tampered with, and my Caesar Salad was one. In all my years reviewing restaurants this was the first and only time I declared a salad inedible and sent it back. It had a very strange flavor and was in no way reminiscent of a Caesar Salad. It was replaced by a bowl of the same Lobster Bisque. It was quite adequate, but could have done with the addition of a bit of sherry or cognac at the table. Companion and I differed on the lobster pieces with myself preferring an actual piece of lobster and companion enjoying the shredded lobster on top. C'est la guerre!
We decided to share an order of Sweet Chili Calamari, which was one of the highlights of the meal. The sweetness was offset by pickled onions and slices of red sweet pepper. A truly great tasting dish. The calamari was nicely tender, but unfortunately, we were brought the calamari and no dishes to eat it off of.
For main courses, companion ordered the Ribeye Steak, done very rare, and I ordered the Pork Tomahawk which is a fat pork chop with a long frenched bone. Sides were Creamed Spinach, Grilled Asparagus, and Mac and Cheese.
Companion did not enjoy the Ribeye because of sinew running through it, though the meat itself was cooked perfectly as ordered.
My Pork Tomahawk was cooked beautifully and was nicely seasoned. It was served according to the newest guidelines that say pork can now be served pink. No more cardboard pork chops! I often order pork chops as a test of the chef's ability to cook to order, as many chefs overcook it until it turns to shoeleather. This chef knows his stuff.
Sides were adequate, though the asparagus could have done with a bit of hollandaise of some fleur de sel on it. I carry my own tin of Maldon Sea Salt for these occasions. Creamed Spinach was topped with shaved parmesan cheese and was acceptable, but no competition at all for Lawry's creamed spinach which is the gold standard. Companion enjoyed the Mac & Cheese stating that this did not come out of a box but was made in house.
As it should be, everything was perfectly clean.
Dings - My pet peeve, that steakhouses should not serve serrated knives because they tear the fibers of the meat. For what this meal cost, steak should be perfectly tender and easily cut with a sharp knife.
Portions were good sized and doggy bags were asked for,.
3 stars for excellent service and decent though not great food
Friday, August 9, 2019
Lisa's Rum Cake
Lisa's Rum Cake
219 S Dillard Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85233
My spouse and I decided to get married and I only gave Lisa 1 weeks notice that I would need a two tier wedding cake. Instead of saying no, as most places will on such short notice, they said yes and we sat down with a book of gorgeous cakes that they have made for others. After going through page after page of pictures we finally settled on a pretty white cake with some touches of purple on it. It wasn't hard to select the type of cake, as Lisa is the daughter of Cathy, the inventor of the original Cathy's Rum Cake. Ours also included a layer of fresh strawberries in it. Having purchased a number of cakes from Cathy's, we were sure that this would be a wonderful cake and we were not disappointed. Lisa's even arranged to have the cake delivered at the appointed time, and once again there was no disappointment. Before leaving we took home a number of "cuts" which are pieces of different cakes. One of them didn't even make it home it was so good.
Everyone at the wedding raved about the cake, and even though it was a small wedding, almost no cake was left, and leftovers were gone in a day.
If you need a terrific cake, even something not a wedding cake, I suggest you run - not walk, to Lisa's. You will never be disappointed.
5 stars for incredible cake and service
219 S Dillard Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85233
My spouse and I decided to get married and I only gave Lisa 1 weeks notice that I would need a two tier wedding cake. Instead of saying no, as most places will on such short notice, they said yes and we sat down with a book of gorgeous cakes that they have made for others. After going through page after page of pictures we finally settled on a pretty white cake with some touches of purple on it. It wasn't hard to select the type of cake, as Lisa is the daughter of Cathy, the inventor of the original Cathy's Rum Cake. Ours also included a layer of fresh strawberries in it. Having purchased a number of cakes from Cathy's, we were sure that this would be a wonderful cake and we were not disappointed. Lisa's even arranged to have the cake delivered at the appointed time, and once again there was no disappointment. Before leaving we took home a number of "cuts" which are pieces of different cakes. One of them didn't even make it home it was so good.
Everyone at the wedding raved about the cake, and even though it was a small wedding, almost no cake was left, and leftovers were gone in a day.
If you need a terrific cake, even something not a wedding cake, I suggest you run - not walk, to Lisa's. You will never be disappointed.
5 stars for incredible cake and service
Wednesday, July 10, 2019
Boulders on Southern
A group that I belong to has been meeting regularly at this location. I have eaten there several times now, and I must say the food is excellent.
Today, I had two fish tacos, which were excellent and came with a small salad also. That along with a bottomless iced tea plus tax, tip, and license plate came to $17, which was quite reasonable.
I am also very fond of their fried artichokes as well as their shishito peppers with Canadian bacon and goat cheese.
They have no problem splitting dishes between two people, including cutting one of their enormous burgers in half and splitting it along with the fries between two people.
I have not tried the pizza yet, but from what everyone says, it is delicious.
For smokers, they have a smoking area out on the patio complete with ashtrays. Its a bit warm in the summer, but delightful the rest of the year.
Their beer list reads like a who's who in the world of brewing, and while I have not counted, it looks like they have over 40 beers available.
The place is clean and amiable.
I suggest you run, don't walk to this great place. It's informal and the food is great.
4 stars for atmosphere, cleanliness and quality food
Today, I had two fish tacos, which were excellent and came with a small salad also. That along with a bottomless iced tea plus tax, tip, and license plate came to $17, which was quite reasonable.
I am also very fond of their fried artichokes as well as their shishito peppers with Canadian bacon and goat cheese.
They have no problem splitting dishes between two people, including cutting one of their enormous burgers in half and splitting it along with the fries between two people.
I have not tried the pizza yet, but from what everyone says, it is delicious.
For smokers, they have a smoking area out on the patio complete with ashtrays. Its a bit warm in the summer, but delightful the rest of the year.
Their beer list reads like a who's who in the world of brewing, and while I have not counted, it looks like they have over 40 beers available.
The place is clean and amiable.
I suggest you run, don't walk to this great place. It's informal and the food is great.
4 stars for atmosphere, cleanliness and quality food
Sunday, May 19, 2019
The Capital Grill
The Capital Grill
2502 E Camelback Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Companion and I arrived for a dinner reservation at 5:30 and were seated immediately. We were
immediately brought warm bread and lavosh along with butter lightly salted on top. Drinks were ordered.
Companion ordered a Pink Squirrel, which we were surprised that the bartender knew how to make. I ordered a Beefeater martini very dry with a double olive. Both libations were well made.
Companion ordered Lobster Bisque, which came out like a deep pink pool of elegance sporting nice immediately brought warm bread and lavosh along with butter lightly salted on top. Drinks were ordered.
Companion ordered a Pink Squirrel, which we were surprised that the bartender knew how to make. I ordered a Beefeater martini very dry with a double olive. Both libations were well made.
pieces of lobster in it. Dry Sherry was nicely poured over the top as a finishing touch. I ordered a crab
meat cocktail, which was adequate but nothing to brag about.
Next came main courses. Companion ordered the Porcini rubbed Bone In Ribeye, cooked rare. It
arrived perfectly cooked rare, but not blue. For myself, I ordered the Broiled Lobster, which also came
out cooked to perfection. It is easy to ruin a lobster by undercooking or overcooking it, but this was
carefully watched. It was served with lots of melted sweet butter, which apparently all restaurants are
now doing. I added my own salt to it which brought out that buttery flavor that I sought.
arrived perfectly cooked rare, but not blue. For myself, I ordered the Broiled Lobster, which also came
out cooked to perfection. It is easy to ruin a lobster by undercooking or overcooking it, but this was
carefully watched. It was served with lots of melted sweet butter, which apparently all restaurants are
now doing. I added my own salt to it which brought out that buttery flavor that I sought.
Side dishes were Wild Mushrooms and Creamed Spinach. The shrooms were nicely cooked, and while
not necessarily wild (the same are available in most markets) nonetheless had good flavor. The
creamed spinach was adequate. It lacked finishing flavor and the requisite creaminess. Perhaps they
could get the recipe from Lawry’s Prime Rib for there's, which is the standard yardstick for comparison.
not necessarily wild (the same are available in most markets) nonetheless had good flavor. The
creamed spinach was adequate. It lacked finishing flavor and the requisite creaminess. Perhaps they
could get the recipe from Lawry’s Prime Rib for there's, which is the standard yardstick for comparison.
On to dessert. This was the one area that the meal failed totally in expectation. Companion ordered
Creme Brulee, which is not a difficult dessert to create. The first thing noticed was that the dish was
warm. The creme was eggy and lacked vanilla. Worse, it had never properly set, and was watery.
Probably as a result, the crystalized sugar top was very thin, and had no snap or crunch, which is a
signature of this dish. If this is the best the pastry chef can do, perhaps its time to look for another one.
For myself, I ordered vanilla ice cream with strawberries and aged balsamic vinegar on top. The
“homemade” ice cream had an odd flavor and while I know that an aged balsamic is costly, I had to
wonder if they could spare it.
Creme Brulee, which is not a difficult dessert to create. The first thing noticed was that the dish was
warm. The creme was eggy and lacked vanilla. Worse, it had never properly set, and was watery.
Probably as a result, the crystalized sugar top was very thin, and had no snap or crunch, which is a
signature of this dish. If this is the best the pastry chef can do, perhaps its time to look for another one.
For myself, I ordered vanilla ice cream with strawberries and aged balsamic vinegar on top. The
“homemade” ice cream had an odd flavor and while I know that an aged balsamic is costly, I had to
wonder if they could spare it.
Overall service was excellent and attentive. The premises were spotless and the restrooms were
properly maintained with good sanitation.
properly maintained with good sanitation.
With the exception of the dessert, the meal was excellent and had the dessert been up to snuff,
would have been given 5 stars.
would have been given 5 stars.
4 Stars for excellent meal except dessert, excellent service and excellent cleanliness.
Thursday, March 21, 2019
Happy Bao
66 S Dobson Rd
Ste 112
Mesa, AZ 85202
3 of us stopped in for a quick lunch. They have an assortment of bao's including soup bao's from Shanghai.
We were seated as soon as we walked in. An assortment of soft drinks was ordered, though I opted for water.
The Xai Long Bao was nicely made, but I found that they stuck to the plastic sheet placed in the steamer pot, and as a result, a lot of the liquid filling did not make it to my mouth. Perhaps they will abandon the plastic for the traditional leaves that are usually used and which the dumplings don't seem to stick too very much.
One of our party ordered the fried rice and pronounced it well made and satisfying.
I ordered the pork belly, and noticed the flavor of 5 spice was fairly obvious, but the taste was really up to snuff. Both myself and another in our party ordered the Xai Long Bao. While the flavor was spot on, the lack of soup was noticeable and was truly missed.
The place was small, but reminded me of numerous shops both in Hong Kong as well as in Shanghai, where there are huge dumpling houses.
This is a nice addition to the mall, and I wish them success in their venture. I will return and re-rate this business.
3 stars for nice service, cleanliness, and tasty food
Monday, February 25, 2019
Mora Italian 3rd review
This is my third review of Mora Italian.
Is Mora starting to slip? I find myself wondering, as I have taken away one star this time.
We ordered a melange of items with the idea of trying some old favorites as well as seeing what is new on the menu.
First up was the bread board and the salumi with cheese. The bread board was nothing like it used to be, and the salumi was sparse to say the least. Not a good start to our meal. Fortunately, the Sangria Mora has not changed and is still excellent.
Next was the Lobster Gnudi, the Fritto Misto, and the Pomodoro. In my previous review I described the Gnudi as ethereal and what I would love for my last meal. Unfortunately, these were heavy and gluey. The Fritto Misto was totally different. The octopus was vile and our waiter informed us that they were going back to the original recipe because they had complaints about this interpretation. I gladly added my complaint to the list. The pomodoro too had changed, as the seasoning in the sauce was not the same. Instead, it seemed like an ordinary pomodoro and not the super sauce that was originally with it.
Eggplant Parmigiana was adequate as was the Torchio. The cauliflower was nice, and the potatoes were perfect.
Desserts were Apple Cheesecake (ordinary), Budino (excellent) and Gelato.
Scott was nowhere to be found. I am hoping that this is not going to be a case of absentee ownership, as a meal that cost $226 plus tip should live up to its reputation. The food has definitely changed and not for the better. Portion sizes seem smaller and the attention to detail that was there when Scott was in the restaurant seems to have vanished. I'll check in again in the future to see what is happening in this restaurant.
4 stars
Is Mora starting to slip? I find myself wondering, as I have taken away one star this time.
We ordered a melange of items with the idea of trying some old favorites as well as seeing what is new on the menu.
First up was the bread board and the salumi with cheese. The bread board was nothing like it used to be, and the salumi was sparse to say the least. Not a good start to our meal. Fortunately, the Sangria Mora has not changed and is still excellent.
Next was the Lobster Gnudi, the Fritto Misto, and the Pomodoro. In my previous review I described the Gnudi as ethereal and what I would love for my last meal. Unfortunately, these were heavy and gluey. The Fritto Misto was totally different. The octopus was vile and our waiter informed us that they were going back to the original recipe because they had complaints about this interpretation. I gladly added my complaint to the list. The pomodoro too had changed, as the seasoning in the sauce was not the same. Instead, it seemed like an ordinary pomodoro and not the super sauce that was originally with it.
Eggplant Parmigiana was adequate as was the Torchio. The cauliflower was nice, and the potatoes were perfect.
Desserts were Apple Cheesecake (ordinary), Budino (excellent) and Gelato.
Scott was nowhere to be found. I am hoping that this is not going to be a case of absentee ownership, as a meal that cost $226 plus tip should live up to its reputation. The food has definitely changed and not for the better. Portion sizes seem smaller and the attention to detail that was there when Scott was in the restaurant seems to have vanished. I'll check in again in the future to see what is happening in this restaurant.
4 stars
White Spot
White Spot
45373 Luckakuck Way
Chilliwack, BC V2R 3C7
Canada
Companion and I stopped in to have breakfast here.
We were seated immediately and given menus as well as cups of coffee to warm up with.
Companion ordered the Bacon, Broccoli and Cheese Scramble and asked for a substitution of fruit for the potatoes.
I ordered the Eggs Benedict and instead of the endless hash browns, asked for them to substitute fruit.
It was nice to see that there was no problem substituting fruit for the hash browns. Items were brought relatively quickly and were properly served.
The premises were clean and service was good.
3 stars
45373 Luckakuck Way
Chilliwack, BC V2R 3C7
Canada
Companion and I stopped in to have breakfast here.
We were seated immediately and given menus as well as cups of coffee to warm up with.
Companion ordered the Bacon, Broccoli and Cheese Scramble and asked for a substitution of fruit for the potatoes.
I ordered the Eggs Benedict and instead of the endless hash browns, asked for them to substitute fruit.
It was nice to see that there was no problem substituting fruit for the hash browns. Items were brought relatively quickly and were properly served.
The premises were clean and service was good.
3 stars
A & W
A & W
45801 1st Avenue
Chilliwack, BC V2P 1R3
Canada
As an American, I thought I had eaten in most of the fast food places around, and had never thought much of A&W in the states. The rootbeer in the U.S. was not particularly exciting or memorable to drink anymore.
What a difference!
This A&W has become my favorite fast food restaurant in Chilliwack.
Let's start with cleanliness. The place is clean enough to eat off the floors, though I wouldn't recommend it!
Their burgers are amazing, and cooked to order. Actually, everything there is cooked to order and comes to you piping hot.
Then there is the rootbeer. Nothing like what is served in the states. This is the rootbeer I remember having as a child - served in a frozen mug it is outstanding. Even the diet version is excellent.
While they also serve breakfast, I had yet another burger for breakfast. They also now have a vegetarian (vegan) burger that is just as wonderful as their beef burger.
Best of all, they raise their own beef, grow their own veggies, and are wonderful people to deal with.
Right on the edge of getting 5 stars, I can only give 4 to a fast food place.
45801 1st Avenue
Chilliwack, BC V2P 1R3
Canada
As an American, I thought I had eaten in most of the fast food places around, and had never thought much of A&W in the states. The rootbeer in the U.S. was not particularly exciting or memorable to drink anymore.
What a difference!
This A&W has become my favorite fast food restaurant in Chilliwack.
Let's start with cleanliness. The place is clean enough to eat off the floors, though I wouldn't recommend it!
Their burgers are amazing, and cooked to order. Actually, everything there is cooked to order and comes to you piping hot.
Then there is the rootbeer. Nothing like what is served in the states. This is the rootbeer I remember having as a child - served in a frozen mug it is outstanding. Even the diet version is excellent.
While they also serve breakfast, I had yet another burger for breakfast. They also now have a vegetarian (vegan) burger that is just as wonderful as their beef burger.
Best of all, they raise their own beef, grow their own veggies, and are wonderful people to deal with.
Right on the edge of getting 5 stars, I can only give 4 to a fast food place.
Ricky's All Day Grill
Ricky's All Day Grill
45389 Luckakuck Way
Unit 100
Chilliwack, BC V2R 3S9
Canada
Companion and I at breakfast at this location. We were seated immediately and were given our menus.
Companion ordered a Brekkie Bowl, which contained potatoes with peppers and onions, scrambled eggs, tomatoes and green onions, with toast on the side. Companion opted not to have the sauce on top, and there was no problem having it that way.
I opted to have an omelet, and selected the Mega Mushroom and 3 cheese. It was a lovely omelet, properly cooked and served. All this was accompanied by some excellent coffee.
The place was clean, service was good, and the food was properly prepared.
3 stars
45389 Luckakuck Way
Unit 100
Chilliwack, BC V2R 3S9
Canada
Companion and I at breakfast at this location. We were seated immediately and were given our menus.
Companion ordered a Brekkie Bowl, which contained potatoes with peppers and onions, scrambled eggs, tomatoes and green onions, with toast on the side. Companion opted not to have the sauce on top, and there was no problem having it that way.
I opted to have an omelet, and selected the Mega Mushroom and 3 cheese. It was a lovely omelet, properly cooked and served. All this was accompanied by some excellent coffee.
The place was clean, service was good, and the food was properly prepared.
3 stars
Almost Home Restaurant and Steakhouse
Almost Home Restaurant and Steakhouse
3310 Market ST NE
Salem, Oregon 97301
Companion and I were traveling from Canada to the lower U.S. and stopped in for dinner.
I will preface this review by saying that anytime I am in this area I will make it my business to come here for my meals!
This is a small diner with a big heart. No matter what you want to eat, if it is on the menu it will be beautifully made and served hot and perfect. I felt like I was eating at home the food was of such character.\
Companion ordered the turkey dinner at regular price. Our server informed us that there was a special on for the turkey dinner and our bill would be reduced if it was ordered. The dinner included even more food as well as dessert for a lower price!
I ordered the apple-cranberry pork, and was amazed at how wonderful the flavor was as well as the more than adequate portion size.
For dessert, even though we were both stuffed, we had homemade pie which was absolutely delicious.
Probably best of all was our waiter. Not only was he knowledgeable, but was so wonderful in his service. He was working multiple jobs at once, yet showed no sign of being tired or of being lazy.
Because of his excellent service, I left him a very big tip. He not only helped make our meal with his service, but he is such a terrific asset to the restaurant.
4 stars for cleanliness, excellent food, and terrific service.
3310 Market ST NE
Salem, Oregon 97301
Companion and I were traveling from Canada to the lower U.S. and stopped in for dinner.
I will preface this review by saying that anytime I am in this area I will make it my business to come here for my meals!
This is a small diner with a big heart. No matter what you want to eat, if it is on the menu it will be beautifully made and served hot and perfect. I felt like I was eating at home the food was of such character.\
Companion ordered the turkey dinner at regular price. Our server informed us that there was a special on for the turkey dinner and our bill would be reduced if it was ordered. The dinner included even more food as well as dessert for a lower price!
I ordered the apple-cranberry pork, and was amazed at how wonderful the flavor was as well as the more than adequate portion size.
For dessert, even though we were both stuffed, we had homemade pie which was absolutely delicious.
Probably best of all was our waiter. Not only was he knowledgeable, but was so wonderful in his service. He was working multiple jobs at once, yet showed no sign of being tired or of being lazy.
Because of his excellent service, I left him a very big tip. He not only helped make our meal with his service, but he is such a terrific asset to the restaurant.
4 stars for cleanliness, excellent food, and terrific service.
Voila French Bistro and Wine Bar
10135 E Via Linda
Ste C120
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Companion and I went to this Bistro for dinner. Personally, I felt that I was at a small Bistro in Paris near the Champs Elysees.
I started with a dish of piping hot escargot. They were loaded with lots of garlic and parsley and were wonderful. Some have complained that the snails are on the small side, but the small ones are much more tender and flavorful than the giants. I used some of the wonderful hot bread they brought to soak up the liquid in each divot and washed it all down with a lovely glass of Beaujolais. Companion enjoyed a big bowl of onion soup with croutons on top as well as a goodly amount of melted cheese.
For my main course I had assorted seafood and fish in choucroute. For those who don't know, choucroute is actually of German origin and comes from the Alsace-Lorraine region. It is characterized by serving your order with sauerkraut. Unlike typical American sauerkraut, this is much more delicate and compliments the food well.
Companion had a nice plate of boeuf bourguignon, which was a special of the day. Companion stated that the meat was so tender than no knife was needed.
Dessert was also special. I had a Grand Marnier souffle that was so light as to be considered to be ethereal. You took some to your mouth, and it just disappeared. Companion had a apple crumble with ice cream.
I don't know what kind of coffee they use, but it was delicious and was a finishing glory to this wonderful meal.
Service is unrushed and everything is clean. Needless To Say, the food was outstanding.
I give out very few 5 stars, but this was definitely one of them.
C-Lovers
C-Lovers
7670 Vedder Road
Chilliwack, BC
I have had the pleasure of eating here numerous times. It
is a smallish restaurant that serves an assortment of fried items.
Their special of $14.99 for all you can eat fish and
chips runs all day every day, and cannot be beat! If you prefer a different
type of fish other than white fish, they have Cod, Haddock, Halibut, Salmon,
Prawns, Oysters, and Chicken. I’m pretty sure this will satisfy just about any
fish lover.
Also on the menu are Onion Rings (a huge plate of them)
Zucchini Sticks, Battered Mushrooms, and my favorite, Deep Fried Pickles.
Available sides are a creamy coleslaw, mushy peas, chowder, and for the young
crowd a deep fried hot dog.
The all you can eat includes all the pop you can drink,
or for a few dollars extra you can have a sleeve of beer with your meal. Also
available are assorted beers both domestic and imported.\
I like my fish with malt vinegar, and it was no problem
for them to provide it to me.
The place is clean, service is excellent, and food is hot
and excellent value.
4 stars
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