We went to Hawaii the only way we knew how, with lots of help from friends. When we got there we were told a number of places to go and looking back they probably got kickbacks for driving traffic to the restaurants since they were mostly over priced and nothing to really write home about.
A little fed up with the whole situation we had almost decided to go to the grocery store and make our own food for the remaining week we were there. Fortunately we wre steered toward the Aloha Mixed Plate.
Growing up on the coast we know that just because a place doesn't have a roof doesn't mean it's bad food. They just have something better to spend their money on than rain protection. This was the case here although in reality they did have a roof of sorts. Ther were large shade covers that stretched across the sitting area, not that it ever rained while we were there.
The food was really good and full of flavor. We always got the mixed plate which was a choice of meats accompanied by a side of rice and macaroni salad. I have done my best to imitate their macaroni salad but I still don't think I have it down quite right. No matter what meat you get they were all good.
I would suggest staying somewhere close to it's location since parking is spotty at best. We walked there in general but it was a hike. It gave us a chance to see more though anyway and it truely is a nice place to walk around.
We usually got out of there for $15 or so but prices have gone up in the last few years since we went. Even so, the prices are cheaper than most anywhere else around it and well worth the cost.
The surroundings were typically clean and well kept up. It is outside so it's hard to keep everything from blowing by. Plant material and a few birds occasionally will grace the area. There aren't a lot of birds though and they weren't a bother.
I would definitely go again if I was already in the area. Getting there is another matter.
Hours: 7 days 8-10
Location: 1285 Front Street, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii
Website: http://www.alohamixedplate.com/
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Monday, August 27, 2012
Lost Dog Cafe, Folly Beach, South Carolina
We went out to Folly Beach looking for a nice beach to go splash around in and take pictures of the sun rise. There aren't many places open at that time of morning but there were plenty of surfers riding the waves so we asked one of them where a good place was that we could have some breakfast.
Apparently at that time of day there was only one place we could go. This didn't seem like it was going to go well for us, seeing as we had tried many places so far in South Carolina and had thus far been disappointed, but we walked the several blocks as directed and came across the Lost Dog Cafe. It's not hard to find being just off of the only main road in town. You have to get there early though since they close at 3:00 on most days and 2:00 on Sunday. You guessed it, no dinner.
There were a few cars in front and not much room for many more, parking can be a little difficult but seeing as we were on foot having parked at the beach, a pay parking lot, we didn't mind. The next couple times we went it was a little more crowded and barely found a spot to park.
The cafe is pet friendly and even has complimentary dog biscuits at the door but the first thing you will notice is that the walls are covered with pictures of dogs, and one cat. After the initial blast of canines you will be seated either inside or outside. Either way it has a very comfortable feel to the place. The locals eat there as well as tourists who have found it either by accident or by word of mouth. The couple we were staying with just outside Charleston had never heard of the place.
While in the area we tried both breakfast and lunch. We were pleased with everything we had and even gave jealous stares at some of those around us who seemed to have something even better. I had to try the burger which I use to base any restaurant off of. If you have a burger on the menu then you should make it well and they did. The wife had some wrap. I don't remember which one but she thoroughly enjoyed it.
If you have ever been to South Carolina then you would know that the area was clean. Even on the most back of back streets people kept things clean. If something hadn't been clean then it would have stuck out like a sore thumb.
The prices were reasonable for what I would usually expect. For the area though they were cheap. Again I had been experiencing some less than par places and spending quite a bit more. The burger at the Lost Dog was $8.50 and even though the fries were extra we got out of there for just over $20. Breakfast was a little cheaper but I really like muffins and we go out of there for just over $10.
In summary, the Lost Dog Cafe is a nice place to eat. The staff was very friendly and attentive and seemed to enjoy working there. The locals were also friendly and didn't mind chatting while eating and of course all the dogs here and there who are just waiting to be petted.
Location: 106 W Huron Ave, Folly Beach, SC
Hours: M-Sat 6:30-3, Sun 6:30-2
Website: http://lostdogfollybeach.com/index.html
Apparently at that time of day there was only one place we could go. This didn't seem like it was going to go well for us, seeing as we had tried many places so far in South Carolina and had thus far been disappointed, but we walked the several blocks as directed and came across the Lost Dog Cafe. It's not hard to find being just off of the only main road in town. You have to get there early though since they close at 3:00 on most days and 2:00 on Sunday. You guessed it, no dinner.
There were a few cars in front and not much room for many more, parking can be a little difficult but seeing as we were on foot having parked at the beach, a pay parking lot, we didn't mind. The next couple times we went it was a little more crowded and barely found a spot to park.
The cafe is pet friendly and even has complimentary dog biscuits at the door but the first thing you will notice is that the walls are covered with pictures of dogs, and one cat. After the initial blast of canines you will be seated either inside or outside. Either way it has a very comfortable feel to the place. The locals eat there as well as tourists who have found it either by accident or by word of mouth. The couple we were staying with just outside Charleston had never heard of the place.
While in the area we tried both breakfast and lunch. We were pleased with everything we had and even gave jealous stares at some of those around us who seemed to have something even better. I had to try the burger which I use to base any restaurant off of. If you have a burger on the menu then you should make it well and they did. The wife had some wrap. I don't remember which one but she thoroughly enjoyed it.
If you have ever been to South Carolina then you would know that the area was clean. Even on the most back of back streets people kept things clean. If something hadn't been clean then it would have stuck out like a sore thumb.
The prices were reasonable for what I would usually expect. For the area though they were cheap. Again I had been experiencing some less than par places and spending quite a bit more. The burger at the Lost Dog was $8.50 and even though the fries were extra we got out of there for just over $20. Breakfast was a little cheaper but I really like muffins and we go out of there for just over $10.
In summary, the Lost Dog Cafe is a nice place to eat. The staff was very friendly and attentive and seemed to enjoy working there. The locals were also friendly and didn't mind chatting while eating and of course all the dogs here and there who are just waiting to be petted.
Location: 106 W Huron Ave, Folly Beach, SC
Hours: M-Sat 6:30-3, Sun 6:30-2
Website: http://lostdogfollybeach.com/index.html
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Tipping Etiquette
I don't know who came up with the rules for tipping and who decided to change them in the last ten years but I hold to the older rules for tipping and suggest everyone do the same. It only changes if you let it.
No Service - 0% - When there is literally no servce such as at Wendy's or Taco Bell or when the service is to the point where you wonder if there was supposed to be service and you just don't see any.
Horrible Service - 0% - When you know there is service but it seems like you've been forgotten or when the service is so poor that you wish you could just walk out without even eating the food which wasn't right in the first place. Also held for the times when you notice the server paying special attention to another table and poor attention to yours. If the server argues with you.
Poor Service - 5% - The server can't seem to get things quite right although they're tried. The server may not be cut out for this kind of job and it shows.
Normal Service - 10% - The server is ok but not good. You may have to wait a little for a refill but the food is right. Nothing special but nothing too bad.
Good Service - up to 15% - The server is pleasant and helpful, has refills before you are ever out and the visit runs smoothly. If a problem comes up you don't have to wait to have it resolved. You would want this server again next time you visit.
Exceptional Service - No limit - This is where you have been treated really well and everything you could ask for was done. It may feel like they're reading your mind. Be mindful of the restaurant you are at though. High class restaurants should feel this way normally and I would still only tip 10-15 in these cases but at $80 a plate I don't think that's a big problem.
Just be aware that you are the one being served and that a tip is how much you appreciate it. Don't be afraid of making it show either good or bad. One of the best things you can do in any case is letting the manager know how you liked the service. This is of course on top of the tip but has the effect of really hitting home with them what kind of service they are providing and in any case motivates them to try harder.
No Service - 0% - When there is literally no servce such as at Wendy's or Taco Bell or when the service is to the point where you wonder if there was supposed to be service and you just don't see any.
Horrible Service - 0% - When you know there is service but it seems like you've been forgotten or when the service is so poor that you wish you could just walk out without even eating the food which wasn't right in the first place. Also held for the times when you notice the server paying special attention to another table and poor attention to yours. If the server argues with you.
Poor Service - 5% - The server can't seem to get things quite right although they're tried. The server may not be cut out for this kind of job and it shows.
Normal Service - 10% - The server is ok but not good. You may have to wait a little for a refill but the food is right. Nothing special but nothing too bad.
Good Service - up to 15% - The server is pleasant and helpful, has refills before you are ever out and the visit runs smoothly. If a problem comes up you don't have to wait to have it resolved. You would want this server again next time you visit.
Exceptional Service - No limit - This is where you have been treated really well and everything you could ask for was done. It may feel like they're reading your mind. Be mindful of the restaurant you are at though. High class restaurants should feel this way normally and I would still only tip 10-15 in these cases but at $80 a plate I don't think that's a big problem.
Just be aware that you are the one being served and that a tip is how much you appreciate it. Don't be afraid of making it show either good or bad. One of the best things you can do in any case is letting the manager know how you liked the service. This is of course on top of the tip but has the effect of really hitting home with them what kind of service they are providing and in any case motivates them to try harder.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Joe's Family Restaurant, Mansfield, Texas
Joe's is a nice little hometown restaruant located just off of Broad Street on Mitchell road near US 287. You might not even think to go there unless someone told you it was there since it's not in with any shopping center or mall and it's not widely publicised. I went with the office a couple times but they're only open for breakfast and lunch and promptly close at 3:00 pm which gives them plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the day.
The menu is what you would expect from a diner, breakfast foods, sandwiches, burgers and a few extras for good measure. They aren't really known for anything particular until you get to the dessert. The merangue pies are as good as it gets. Soetimes that's all we would get from there and just have someone pick up a pie for the office. These things are about half merangue and half pie.
If you really want food though I would suggest the burger. It's nothing really special but it's a good burger for a reasonable price. I wouldn't get a drink there though since it's creeping up on two bucks but I don't like spending where I don't have to, Mansfield's water is pretty good.
They keep the area really clean inside and out, again not being in a shipping center or right by other restaurants really helps with this. The staff is pretty nice too. I never felt rushed and the atmosphere was nice. Parking wasn't a problem and I don't expect it will be.
You can easily get out of there for under ten dollars unless you splurge and get the extras, and that's tip and all.
Overall I'd have to say it's a nice place to have lunch or breakfast if you have the time. Dinner is right out since they are't open that late. Definitely a place to try if you're looking for a bite in the area.
Location: 310 N. Mitchell Road, Mansfield, TX
Hours: M-Sat 6-3, Sun 7-3
Website: http://www.joes-mansfield.com/
The menu is what you would expect from a diner, breakfast foods, sandwiches, burgers and a few extras for good measure. They aren't really known for anything particular until you get to the dessert. The merangue pies are as good as it gets. Soetimes that's all we would get from there and just have someone pick up a pie for the office. These things are about half merangue and half pie.
If you really want food though I would suggest the burger. It's nothing really special but it's a good burger for a reasonable price. I wouldn't get a drink there though since it's creeping up on two bucks but I don't like spending where I don't have to, Mansfield's water is pretty good.
They keep the area really clean inside and out, again not being in a shipping center or right by other restaurants really helps with this. The staff is pretty nice too. I never felt rushed and the atmosphere was nice. Parking wasn't a problem and I don't expect it will be.
You can easily get out of there for under ten dollars unless you splurge and get the extras, and that's tip and all.
Overall I'd have to say it's a nice place to have lunch or breakfast if you have the time. Dinner is right out since they are't open that late. Definitely a place to try if you're looking for a bite in the area.
Location: 310 N. Mitchell Road, Mansfield, TX
Hours: M-Sat 6-3, Sun 7-3
Website: http://www.joes-mansfield.com/
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Potager Cafe, Arlington, Texas
We ran into the owner of this restaurant while at the farmer's market in arlington. When she said she owned a restaurant near by we dedided we should check it out.
We didn't understand what she was talking about at first but when we got there you could see the food being made right there at the counter and you could ask for as much of whatever as you wanted. Everything was a la carte. The price was a little different. As the owner said it was a pay what you think it's worth scale, although on the wall was what they think it's worth near where you drop off your money. Some of the prices I thought were a little high and others a little low so I guess in the end what I though was pretty close to the board. I'm still not sure about tipping there.
The menu changes daily and even hourly. One minute there can be a nice quiche sitting there and by the time you decide you really wanted a piece it's gone. Don't worry too much though because something else is there that you probably didn't realize you wanted just as much. Save room for dessert. I don't know what it will be but save room anyway. It's all made fresh daily and at the whim of the chefs. The one constant is fresh bread, you have to try it to appreciate it. The only thing you don't have to get up to get is water which is conviently located on each table in pitchers.
When you're done you put your plates up and put what you think the meal was worth in an empty seed packet and place it in an old watering can. Needless to say it's cash only. As far as a cost here it really depends on how you eat and what you think it was worth. I've gotten out of there for $6 before and felt satisfied while another time I spent over $30, probably because the dessert was so good, twice.
It's always clean in there. I think the owner would fall over if it wasn't and with her energy that's saying something. There's also plenty of parking on the side and out back.
Overall a nice restaurant with good healthy food to fit any size budget. As far as I know there isn't anywhere close to compare it to.
Finding the place and making sure it's open when you want to go is a little trickier. The place isn't really big and it's nestled in the middle of a short block on the east side of the street. Even though it does have a large sign, I've missed it more than once.
Location: 315 S. Mesquite, Arlington, TX
Hours T,W 11-3, Th-Sat 11-9
Website: http://www.potagercafe.com/
We didn't understand what she was talking about at first but when we got there you could see the food being made right there at the counter and you could ask for as much of whatever as you wanted. Everything was a la carte. The price was a little different. As the owner said it was a pay what you think it's worth scale, although on the wall was what they think it's worth near where you drop off your money. Some of the prices I thought were a little high and others a little low so I guess in the end what I though was pretty close to the board. I'm still not sure about tipping there.
The menu changes daily and even hourly. One minute there can be a nice quiche sitting there and by the time you decide you really wanted a piece it's gone. Don't worry too much though because something else is there that you probably didn't realize you wanted just as much. Save room for dessert. I don't know what it will be but save room anyway. It's all made fresh daily and at the whim of the chefs. The one constant is fresh bread, you have to try it to appreciate it. The only thing you don't have to get up to get is water which is conviently located on each table in pitchers.
When you're done you put your plates up and put what you think the meal was worth in an empty seed packet and place it in an old watering can. Needless to say it's cash only. As far as a cost here it really depends on how you eat and what you think it was worth. I've gotten out of there for $6 before and felt satisfied while another time I spent over $30, probably because the dessert was so good, twice.
It's always clean in there. I think the owner would fall over if it wasn't and with her energy that's saying something. There's also plenty of parking on the side and out back.
Overall a nice restaurant with good healthy food to fit any size budget. As far as I know there isn't anywhere close to compare it to.
Finding the place and making sure it's open when you want to go is a little trickier. The place isn't really big and it's nestled in the middle of a short block on the east side of the street. Even though it does have a large sign, I've missed it more than once.
Location: 315 S. Mesquite, Arlington, TX
Hours T,W 11-3, Th-Sat 11-9
Website: http://www.potagercafe.com/
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Old School Pizza and Suds, Arlington, Texas
We've enjoyed seeing this old house go from sandwich shop to coffee house as well as a few others that didn't last more than a month or two and now finally it's a pretty decent pizza place. It's located conviently on the north side of the university on Abram Street right next to the McDonalds. We were at Thrift Town when we were discussing where to eat and the cashier said her daughter worked there and we should go. We talked about going weeks earlier and had forgotten about it so we decided to try it out.
The parking hadn't changed. If it's busy then you might as well keep going or park at McDonalds. I don't think they like it but I doubt they will complain, still park at your own risk. If it's not too busy then parking is still interesting at best. Last time we parked between two trees out back of the place. There is live music back there on the weekends uaually local bands, a few of which are from the university. One of the bands is a Beatles cover band which I hear is pretty good.
When you go in you have to be a little careful. As mentioned it's an old house and the floors aren't always level. That being said it's a neat place to sit and eat. Aslo the chair may or may not wobble slightly, still not too bad.
We ordered a large pizza to split. The crust was thick but not deep dish and generously topped with pretty good stuff. It's been a while so I don't remember everything we had on it but we weren't disabpointed. They boast many beers on tap and if I was a beer fan I would be pretty happy. It's unusual what people get upset about though. While we were there another patron got upset that his beer request, which I had never heard of, wasn't available. The wall is only so big. Of course there's also soda and tea (for those of you out of town it's sweet tea, we're in Texas).
Even with the slightly uneven floors they keep it pretty clean and neat. Occasionally there's trash blowing by but that's everywhere in Arlington, no trash cans allowed on trash day. The building is in good repair and as far as I can tell they should be there for some time to come.
They are a little pricier than their competition but their product is a little higher quality too. They take the time to make a really nice looking and tasting pizza and it shows. i believe we got out of there for womewhere between $18-$20 for two people.
Overall I thinik this is a good place to have a pizza. Especially if you like thick crusts, I'm a total fan of this. They have other selections such as subs but for a place with pizza in the name I would suggest starting there and working your way.
Location: 603 West Abram Street Arlington, TX
Hours: Sun-Th 11-11:45, F Sat 11-2
The parking hadn't changed. If it's busy then you might as well keep going or park at McDonalds. I don't think they like it but I doubt they will complain, still park at your own risk. If it's not too busy then parking is still interesting at best. Last time we parked between two trees out back of the place. There is live music back there on the weekends uaually local bands, a few of which are from the university. One of the bands is a Beatles cover band which I hear is pretty good.
When you go in you have to be a little careful. As mentioned it's an old house and the floors aren't always level. That being said it's a neat place to sit and eat. Aslo the chair may or may not wobble slightly, still not too bad.
We ordered a large pizza to split. The crust was thick but not deep dish and generously topped with pretty good stuff. It's been a while so I don't remember everything we had on it but we weren't disabpointed. They boast many beers on tap and if I was a beer fan I would be pretty happy. It's unusual what people get upset about though. While we were there another patron got upset that his beer request, which I had never heard of, wasn't available. The wall is only so big. Of course there's also soda and tea (for those of you out of town it's sweet tea, we're in Texas).
Even with the slightly uneven floors they keep it pretty clean and neat. Occasionally there's trash blowing by but that's everywhere in Arlington, no trash cans allowed on trash day. The building is in good repair and as far as I can tell they should be there for some time to come.
They are a little pricier than their competition but their product is a little higher quality too. They take the time to make a really nice looking and tasting pizza and it shows. i believe we got out of there for womewhere between $18-$20 for two people.
Overall I thinik this is a good place to have a pizza. Especially if you like thick crusts, I'm a total fan of this. They have other selections such as subs but for a place with pizza in the name I would suggest starting there and working your way.
Location: 603 West Abram Street Arlington, TX
Hours: Sun-Th 11-11:45, F Sat 11-2
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Nizza Pizza, Arlington, Texas
We stumbled across this place after moving to the area. It's located on the south side of the university on Cooper Street and at the time was catering to college and high school students, the high school being across the street to the south.
Originally it had no waitress, you just picked up the pizza yourself and brought it to the table as well as getting your own drinks.
The original owner sold that location to his brother-in-law and opened a new location a few miles down the street in the next city, Mansfield, but has since moved to the Grandbury area and has two locations in that area. Since then they've hired a waitress or two probably because they're not the most polished of folks as far as southerners are concerned, you get used to that, and went up on their prices, currently having gone up again and not so reasonable. They've also expanded the building to include the outside seating inside.
The pizza is similar though, thin but not crispy thin. You can also get an assortment of other things, pasta, salad, dessert and garlic bread. They used to have bread knots which I thought were way better. They take a little longer to make but with business booming they have to trim the time down somewhere. Their subs are ok. On a down side I wouldn't suggest the dessert, it's not great and for the price not worth it.
Parking isn't always very easy. The parking lot is a bit of a mess to get around especially with the many other businesses around it and few parking spots specifically for Nizza. They do an ok job of keeping the restaurant and area around it clean. It's not spotless and being on a corner of two busy streets gets a lot of trash blown by and caught.
Inside the restaurant they keep the tables wiped down pretty well and it's comfortable to hang out and eat your meal. I've never felt rushed although it does take a little while sometimes to get your food.
Overall it was a nice place to have lunch. Their pizza is easy to split and on average would run up toward $15 with toppings. Drinks were reasonable and subs were a good option if no one can agree on what pizza they want. Parking can be iffy but inside is comfortable.
Caution: They recently went up significantly on prices and are pricing themselves out of the student market. It's on the high end of the scale for the product and the ambiance doesn't support it. As of 9/17/12 the online menu still hadn't reflected this change and is deceptive. What should have been about an $18 order was quoted at $26, about 40% higher. For the price there are better options.
Location: 1430 S. Cooper, Arlington, Tx
Hours: Sun-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11
Website: http://www.nizzapizza.net/
Originally it had no waitress, you just picked up the pizza yourself and brought it to the table as well as getting your own drinks.
The original owner sold that location to his brother-in-law and opened a new location a few miles down the street in the next city, Mansfield, but has since moved to the Grandbury area and has two locations in that area. Since then they've hired a waitress or two probably because they're not the most polished of folks as far as southerners are concerned, you get used to that, and went up on their prices, currently having gone up again and not so reasonable. They've also expanded the building to include the outside seating inside.
The pizza is similar though, thin but not crispy thin. You can also get an assortment of other things, pasta, salad, dessert and garlic bread. They used to have bread knots which I thought were way better. They take a little longer to make but with business booming they have to trim the time down somewhere. Their subs are ok. On a down side I wouldn't suggest the dessert, it's not great and for the price not worth it.
Parking isn't always very easy. The parking lot is a bit of a mess to get around especially with the many other businesses around it and few parking spots specifically for Nizza. They do an ok job of keeping the restaurant and area around it clean. It's not spotless and being on a corner of two busy streets gets a lot of trash blown by and caught.
Inside the restaurant they keep the tables wiped down pretty well and it's comfortable to hang out and eat your meal. I've never felt rushed although it does take a little while sometimes to get your food.
Overall it was a nice place to have lunch. Their pizza is easy to split and on average would run up toward $15 with toppings. Drinks were reasonable and subs were a good option if no one can agree on what pizza they want. Parking can be iffy but inside is comfortable.
Caution: They recently went up significantly on prices and are pricing themselves out of the student market. It's on the high end of the scale for the product and the ambiance doesn't support it. As of 9/17/12 the online menu still hadn't reflected this change and is deceptive. What should have been about an $18 order was quoted at $26, about 40% higher. For the price there are better options.
Location: 1430 S. Cooper, Arlington, Tx
Hours: Sun-Th 11-10, F-Sat 11-11
Website: http://www.nizzapizza.net/
Friday, August 10, 2012
Tandoor Indian Restaurant, Arlington, Texas
Tandoor is on Fielder Road just north of Randol Mill Road. I went here not expecting much. I wasn't really fond of trying lots of new things at the time but indian food soon grew on me. I grew up eating spicy hot food on and off and currently I don't like tons of spicy hotness. This doesn't look good for this restaurant eh? Fortunately for them the food tastes so good I suffer through any heat they put into it. The key for me at least is water and naan, really good bread. If you like spicy hot then you may think I'm being a little whimpy. They are open regular business hours for lunch and dinner and I've been there for both. There's plenty on the buffet for everyone's taste.
I would recommend the samosas, which we always get at least one order of, and the lamb vindaloo. I know it's spicy but at some point you stop caring that your tongue is going numb. The chicken tikka masala is also a nice dish and less numbing. Of course if you haven't been and have no clue what you would order I would suggest the lunch buffet. It doesn't have everything but it's a good selection. In short though I can't think of anything they don't make well.
Peraonally I'm a rice guy, a white rice guy. It's not that their rice is bad but basmati rice has a different flavor to it. With the sauces they make you can't really tell so I guess it's not that important just know that this isn't your mamma's rice, unless you happen to have grown up eating indian food at home.
The atmosphere there is nice. the darker colors are relaxing and you can watch them make the naan through a window so there's a little entertainlemt while you wait. That's not to say the service is slow, they do pretty well gettting the food out to you.
Parking is not an issue. It's in a shopping center although you wouldn't know it once you get inside.
Food is $10-$15 a person depending on what you get and drinks which are reasonably priced unlike many restaruants these days who want to treat your drink as if it were an appetizer. They have a nice little selection of sodas as well as indian drinks.
I have to say this is one of the nicer places to go in the area.
Location: 1200 N. Fielder, Ste 532, Arlington, TX
Website: http://tandoorrestaurant.net/
I would recommend the samosas, which we always get at least one order of, and the lamb vindaloo. I know it's spicy but at some point you stop caring that your tongue is going numb. The chicken tikka masala is also a nice dish and less numbing. Of course if you haven't been and have no clue what you would order I would suggest the lunch buffet. It doesn't have everything but it's a good selection. In short though I can't think of anything they don't make well.
Peraonally I'm a rice guy, a white rice guy. It's not that their rice is bad but basmati rice has a different flavor to it. With the sauces they make you can't really tell so I guess it's not that important just know that this isn't your mamma's rice, unless you happen to have grown up eating indian food at home.
The atmosphere there is nice. the darker colors are relaxing and you can watch them make the naan through a window so there's a little entertainlemt while you wait. That's not to say the service is slow, they do pretty well gettting the food out to you.
Parking is not an issue. It's in a shopping center although you wouldn't know it once you get inside.
Food is $10-$15 a person depending on what you get and drinks which are reasonably priced unlike many restaruants these days who want to treat your drink as if it were an appetizer. They have a nice little selection of sodas as well as indian drinks.
I have to say this is one of the nicer places to go in the area.
Location: 1200 N. Fielder, Ste 532, Arlington, TX
Website: http://tandoorrestaurant.net/
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Pickett House, Woodville, Texas
Another place that has very limited hours is the Pickett House. Again, I can't complain about not wanting to work 40 hours a week and still make a decent living. I'm all for that. These folks have it down to a science, 11-2 (3 hours) for lunch Monday through Friday but they are open until early dinner on Saturday and Sunday staying open until 6, unless it's a holiday in which case go home and eat with your family, they are.
To the food!
Do you remember eating great home cooked food growing up? Somehow they've saved a few pots from back then and have heated them up and amazingly it's still fresh. Everything is served boarding house style. If you don't know what that means then let me explain. Put it all on the table and serve yourself. We don't have a maid. Actually scratch that, I did have maids growing up, well one relative had a cleaning lady and another had a cook, but that's besides the point. When you've cleaned the platters don't worry more is coming unless you say otherwise.
The fried chicken is still some of the best I've ever had, crispy skin and juicy on the inside, full of flavor. The chicken and dumplings on the other hand were not crispy but the sauce was excellent and the dumplings nice and thick.
They also have several veggies to choose from, I tend to lean toward the mustard greens and fresh cooked beets. It's been a while but I remember corn and green beans as well.
The biscuits are as home made as they get. Spread a little butter on them and you're good to go. If you aren't in the mood for a biscuit when you enter you soon will be. They also have cornbread as an option in case you have had your fill of biscuits, they're moist and crisp on the outside, not crunchy, that would be entirely different.
There's an assortment of drinks but I recommend the sweet tea. They're southerners and one sip of the tea will confirm it. You can't get this kind of tea anywhere around the metroplex.
Dessert is included and again they don't skimp on the quality. They have cobbler made fresh, not always the same fruit inside, it depends on what they had a hankering for.
It's located in Heritage Village which boasts being a living museum of pioneer history. An interesting place to look around after eating so your food can settle. This makes parking a little easier since there is so much of it but you might have to walk a little. The fact that it is in this area also dictates that the appearance is kept clean and nice.
Again it's been a while so I can only guess on the cost but I believe it was around $16 a person but it was worth every penny.
On a side note, you have to bring the plates up to a window and drop them off so they can be cleaned. Again, no maid.
Location: 190 west of Woodville, TX
Hours: M-F 11-2, Sat-Sun 11-6
Website: http://www.heritage-village.org/pickett-house.htm
To the food!
Do you remember eating great home cooked food growing up? Somehow they've saved a few pots from back then and have heated them up and amazingly it's still fresh. Everything is served boarding house style. If you don't know what that means then let me explain. Put it all on the table and serve yourself. We don't have a maid. Actually scratch that, I did have maids growing up, well one relative had a cleaning lady and another had a cook, but that's besides the point. When you've cleaned the platters don't worry more is coming unless you say otherwise.
The fried chicken is still some of the best I've ever had, crispy skin and juicy on the inside, full of flavor. The chicken and dumplings on the other hand were not crispy but the sauce was excellent and the dumplings nice and thick.
They also have several veggies to choose from, I tend to lean toward the mustard greens and fresh cooked beets. It's been a while but I remember corn and green beans as well.
The biscuits are as home made as they get. Spread a little butter on them and you're good to go. If you aren't in the mood for a biscuit when you enter you soon will be. They also have cornbread as an option in case you have had your fill of biscuits, they're moist and crisp on the outside, not crunchy, that would be entirely different.
There's an assortment of drinks but I recommend the sweet tea. They're southerners and one sip of the tea will confirm it. You can't get this kind of tea anywhere around the metroplex.
Dessert is included and again they don't skimp on the quality. They have cobbler made fresh, not always the same fruit inside, it depends on what they had a hankering for.
It's located in Heritage Village which boasts being a living museum of pioneer history. An interesting place to look around after eating so your food can settle. This makes parking a little easier since there is so much of it but you might have to walk a little. The fact that it is in this area also dictates that the appearance is kept clean and nice.
Again it's been a while so I can only guess on the cost but I believe it was around $16 a person but it was worth every penny.
On a side note, you have to bring the plates up to a window and drop them off so they can be cleaned. Again, no maid.
Location: 190 west of Woodville, TX
Hours: M-F 11-2, Sat-Sun 11-6
Website: http://www.heritage-village.org/pickett-house.htm
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
North Main BBQ, Euless, Texas
North Main BBQ is just where you would think it would be, just off the highway north on Main Street. I went there expecting something pretty good, after all it's a BBQ place in Texas. It's only open three days a week which I wish I could do. No problem there. When I called them they told me the price for the buffet was fifteen dollars. I went in expecting to pay tax on that but inistead it was exactly fifteen dollars after tax which makes their life easier.
The selection of meats was about what you would expect, ribs of course, brisket, and what was called bird. I can only guess that the last on was chicken since the man behind the counter would not say one way or the other. This white meat bird however was the best thing I ate there. That's not to say the other food was bad. The brisket was pretty good. I don't know how on Earth or what judge they had to bribe to win a contest but the ribs were not that great. They were what I would call ok. When it came to sides they were sorely lacking. The only thing that could be called a veggie was the cole slaw, not even a green bean. If you want bread there is sliced white bread out of a bag. Dessert was soft serve ice cream and the machine either wasn't working quite right or something was wrong with the mix. I couldn't bring myself to try it, it just looked wrong. On a positive note, drinks were included.
The inside of the restaurant was in decent condition, nothing major wrong with the tables or chairs and there was plenty of condiments and utinsels if needed. Parking wasn't so good. the parking stalls were not wide enough and possibly not up to city code. They should check into that.
Unless it's someone's most favorite place to go and I'm in the group trying to figure out where to eat, I won't be going back.
Breakdown of my decision is as follows:
$30 for two people, a little pricy.
No good bread.
So-so meats, except for the white meat bird.
No veggies, and no I don't count cole slaw since I don't really like it.
Bad parking.
Better choices in the area:
Spring Creek BBQ, no I'm not paid for this.
Dickey's BBQ
For the price and quality these are much better.
Location: 406 N Main, Euless, TX
Hours: F-Sat 11-9, Sun 11-4
Website: http://www.northmainbbq.com/
The selection of meats was about what you would expect, ribs of course, brisket, and what was called bird. I can only guess that the last on was chicken since the man behind the counter would not say one way or the other. This white meat bird however was the best thing I ate there. That's not to say the other food was bad. The brisket was pretty good. I don't know how on Earth or what judge they had to bribe to win a contest but the ribs were not that great. They were what I would call ok. When it came to sides they were sorely lacking. The only thing that could be called a veggie was the cole slaw, not even a green bean. If you want bread there is sliced white bread out of a bag. Dessert was soft serve ice cream and the machine either wasn't working quite right or something was wrong with the mix. I couldn't bring myself to try it, it just looked wrong. On a positive note, drinks were included.
The inside of the restaurant was in decent condition, nothing major wrong with the tables or chairs and there was plenty of condiments and utinsels if needed. Parking wasn't so good. the parking stalls were not wide enough and possibly not up to city code. They should check into that.
Unless it's someone's most favorite place to go and I'm in the group trying to figure out where to eat, I won't be going back.
Breakdown of my decision is as follows:
$30 for two people, a little pricy.
No good bread.
So-so meats, except for the white meat bird.
No veggies, and no I don't count cole slaw since I don't really like it.
Bad parking.
Better choices in the area:
Spring Creek BBQ, no I'm not paid for this.
Dickey's BBQ
For the price and quality these are much better.
Location: 406 N Main, Euless, TX
Hours: F-Sat 11-9, Sun 11-4
Website: http://www.northmainbbq.com/
Premise
I feel I should start out by saying that I'm not out to disuade you from trying these places on your own but I don't feel like these places have been properly represented. My wife loves the Food Network and doesn't think a bad word should be said about anything in fears that it will cause "problems". What these problems are isn't really clear so I figure I'll just make a new area for my observations. I have sevral other blogs not linked here to help keep her worries down to a minimum.
I don't plan to dog restaurants here. I plan to give my honest opinion of them in hopes that they will see it and possibly mull the comments over and see if they agree and want to do something about them. Also customers can come and see what an honest opinion free from media and ties to a restaurant are like. If a restaurant wants me to come see what they have I will be more than willing to do so but I will come like any other customer. I have done mystery shopping for years and have never been spotted. I will then write what I really think about their food and hopefully I won't be disapointed.
I will follow in the steps of the famous Guy Fieri for a start and have done so already with several places near where I live. Sit back and relax as you look through the restaurants I will post here and enjoy.
Feel free to add anything to the comments as I'm sure they will be widely varied. The comments will be moderated for vulgar or otherwise offensive or illegal language but not for content. Disagree all you want.
I don't plan to dog restaurants here. I plan to give my honest opinion of them in hopes that they will see it and possibly mull the comments over and see if they agree and want to do something about them. Also customers can come and see what an honest opinion free from media and ties to a restaurant are like. If a restaurant wants me to come see what they have I will be more than willing to do so but I will come like any other customer. I have done mystery shopping for years and have never been spotted. I will then write what I really think about their food and hopefully I won't be disapointed.
I will follow in the steps of the famous Guy Fieri for a start and have done so already with several places near where I live. Sit back and relax as you look through the restaurants I will post here and enjoy.
Feel free to add anything to the comments as I'm sure they will be widely varied. The comments will be moderated for vulgar or otherwise offensive or illegal language but not for content. Disagree all you want.
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