June 18, 2013

Dead Chefs at The Residency, UMAMIcatessen, Downtown L.A.

I had the privilege of being invited to try Chef Micah Wexler’s “Dead Chefs” series at The Residency, located within UMAMIcatessen in Downtown L.A. As part of this series, each chef develops a menu with a historical culinary figure in mind. At my tasting we were graced with the inspiration of Maestro Martino di Como, known as the legendary “Prince of Cooks” in Italy. Our 5 course meal was absolutely incredible and I highly recommend you reserve a seat for this experiential meal which changes on the weekly.

We started with the Sgombri con Zucchini e Finocchi: mackerel, summer squash, wild fennel sauce. The freshness of the fish, paired with crisp vegetables and dill was a beautiful start to the meal. The flavors were so bright that I found myself wanting to lick the plate to savor every ounce of the dish. On to course 2, Zanzarelli con Fava e Zafferano: bread soup, fava bean, and saffron. Though it was difficult to capture the glory of this soup with a photo, I must attest the fragrance was rich and the broth felt hearty while maintaining a lightness when consumed. The snap of the fava bean in my mouth was a pleasant surprise when I was fortunate enough to find one in my spoon. I’d love to learn how to make this soup in my very own kitchen! Course 3, Tagliarini Genovese: fresh pasta, arugula, mozarella, parmigiano was bold, made with argula pesto rather than the usual basil. The pasta was legit, but I found myself wanting to add salt to my bowl to cut the bitterness of the arugula. It was certainly beautiful to play with but had me wanting just a little something else.

The pièce de résistance was undoubtedly Maialino da Latte Arrosto: roasted suckling pig, garlic, herbs, offal sauce. This bad boy made us squeal with delight (pun intended) when he was delivered to the carving station. Micah was proud to pose with the pig and we all eagerly awaited our very first bite of the perfectly cooked white meat. The flavor was on point, the meat moist and the crispy outer layer of skin is what dreams are made of. I had a chance to choose some extra pig parts and I went straight for the crispy ears – an absolute delight! To conclude this glorious experience they brought out course 5, dessert. Crostata di Madorle: almond tarte, date, coffee. I was almost beyond stuffed at this point but not too much to enjoy a few bites of this delectable sweet treat topped with crème fraîche.

UMAMIcatessen, 852 Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Dead Chef's at The Residency Roasted suckling pig

The Residency at UMAMIcatessen

Dead Chef's at UMAMIcatessen

The Residency at UMAMIcatessen

Chef Micah Wexler

The Residency at UMAMIcatessen

UMAMIcatessen dessert

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June 12, 2013

Via Mar, Highland Park

It feels like summer has arrived in L.A. which means my ceviche + fish taco game has just been elevated. Those in my inner circle know that Ricky’s makes my favorite fish taco, followed closely by Tacos Baja Ensenada in East L.A., but another heavy weight contender is Via Mar, holding it down in Highland Park. What makes Via Mar pop off is that they have a diverse menu of fresh fish, ample seating al fresco, and the prices are friendly for all budgets. On my last visit to this eastside gem, my lunch date and I settled down with the following: tacos de camaron (shrimp), tacos de pescado (fish), toastada de jaiba (crab) y a toastada de camaron. Paired with a jamaica agua fresca (hibiscus) and you have yourself a perfect summer meal. Their ceviche is fresh and when doused with chile, combines the beautiful sensation of both hot and cold. Via Mar’s shrimp tacos offer a crunch that makes each bite a burst of flavors, paired with crema, cabbage + tomatoes. A hearty meal that leaves you feeling light and if you pretend hard enough, you can almost see the beach.

Via Mar, 5111 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA. 90042

Via Mar Crab Tostada

Via Mar Highland Park

Via Mar Seafood Restaurant

Los Angeles Fish Tacos

Via Mar Ceviche

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June 11, 2013

Juicy J at the House of Blues

Academy Award Winner Juciy J is a veteran, a seasoned professional. This was my third time seeing him perform in the past year and last time we were in the same room I found myself on stage breakdancing and catching ones. I had anticipated a great show considering my previous experiences and my expectations were exceeded! Guest performers included Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean and Miley Cyrus, who took time out of her busy schedule to twerk for us. Although it was a “Zip & A Double Cup”, “Bandz a Make Her Dance” and “Show Out” that got the crowd the most turnt, Juicy maintained at 100 the entire show. As a performer Juicy does not utilize the entire stage, nor dance much, but instead maintains a steady bounce that is really quite charming. His shows are usually seamless, with little to few missteps and always packed with high energy – I confidently recommend him live because I know he’ll give you what you want.

I am eagerly awaiting the release of Juicy J’s upcoming Album Stay Trippy. It feels like we’ve been waiting forever. If my gut feeling is correct, Juicy treats live shows like a career, so we can look forward to many more tours in our time. Stay trippy mane.

Now listen to Juicy J here.

Juicy J and Wiz Khalifa at The House of Blues

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Juicy J Big Sean at The House of Blues

Wiz Khalifa HOB

Miley twerks at Juicy J

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June 7, 2013

Lil B at The Observatory

Seeing Lil B perform live should immediately be added to your list of things to do before you die.

I was first put onto the Based God back in 2011 while shopping in Atlanta with the former bae, but didn’t really submerge myself in his music until earlier this year. Since my life is all about the positive vibes, Lil B has been inspiring my Twitter timeline for a minute and if you check his following, you’ll see that this genius is a pure internet professional. When I received word that the young Based God was finally putting on a Southern California show, I was one of the first to buy a ticket! A drive down to Santa Ana was no big thang, because I had a feeling I was about to be charmed. The last time I was at The Observatory I was backstage for Danny Brown and it was a strange feeling to be back and among the crowd. Mostly surrounded by teenage boys with ridiculous attitudes – seriously, one wanted to fight me – and young ladies who appeared to be dragged by their boyfriends, I wasn’t feeling the based vibes I was hoping to, but that all stopped when Lil B took the stage. His presence, his aura, his everything, completely enthralled me and I was completely his for the next hour and forty-fives minutes. Though I had not memorized everything in his oeuvre, he still managed to have me going nuts for every song: twerking, screaming, and sweating, which is often difficult to maintain at a rap show. The passion was there, the love was evident and the Based God had us feeling like family. We chanted “I love you” and “I love the Earth”, and he encouraged us to hug our neighbor. Lil B created a church of positive vibes that evening and I was listening to his sermon.

Now listen to Lil B. here

Lil B at The Observatory

Lil B at The Observatory

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June 5, 2013

La Casita Mexicana, Bell

Mexican brunch was what we were feeling so I put the fam onto La Casita Mexicana, located in Bell. I had been to the restaurant a few times prior but going with a larger group finally allowed me the opportunity to sample a variety of dishes offered. Like any Mexican sitdown with our gang, our meal started with Queso Fundido con Choirzo. Melted Mexican cheeses, generously sprinkled with fatty pork and paired with fresh corn tortillas – this is what dreams are made of. Take note, this is a must order on their menu!

I consider myself a lover of beverages and at La Casita they’re killing the game with their Lemonade with Chia Seeds and Melon Agua Fresca. Both refreshing and perfectly sweet, it’s too difficult to choose which one is my favorite. Thankfully my sister came with, so we got to have a taste of both. Hands down the star of the table was the Three Mole Flautas with Chicken, smothered in mole poblano, red pepián and green pepián. The moles were rich, vibrant, and awakened the taste buds with each bite. Believe it or not, this Mexican-American girl did not grow up with mole in her home, so I love having the opportunity to taste the incredible flavors when I’m out discovering my city. If you are looking for something bold, go with one of their mole dishes.

People really love the chilaquiles at La Casita so I opted for the Divorciados, which combines both red and green chilaquiles. Red being made with special red tomato and Cascabel sauce and Green with a tomatillo and chile Serrano sauce. I have come to realize that I’m not crazy about chilaquiles. Not to say these weren’t good, but I just found myself dreaming about the moles the whole time I was eating them. I must not forget to mention some of the BEST churros I have had in L.A. are found here. Filled with cajeta (caramel), these crunchy babies are so delicious you cannot help but eat them while pipping hot. You might even find yourself fighting for the last one!

La Casita Mexicana, 4030 Gage Avenue, Bell, CA 90201

La Casita Mexicana Queso Fundido

La Casita Mexicana, Bell

La Casita Mexicana, Bell

La Casita Mexicana

La Casitas Mexicana

La Casitas Mexicana Churros

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May 29, 2013

Craftsman & Wolves, San Francisco

An evening stroll after a delicious dinner in San Francisco usually calls for something sweet. My sister and I were devastated when we realized Tartine closed at 8p, so I hit my phone, looking for bakeries in the Mission open into the later evening. My search suggested Craftsman & Wolves and after a text confirmation from the homie A Cozy Kitchen, it had been decided we would land there for dessert.

Craftsman & Wolves is a contemporary pâtisserie that boasts a diverse menu of pastries, desserts, confections and unique treats. We were thankful to hear they recently extended their hours because this allowed us to linger inside, reading the menu extensively and getting the low-down from their super helpful staff. There was no struggle in deciding what to choose because the Strawberries + Cream Cake Bar immediately called out my name. Made with pain de genes (almond cake), topped with sablé breton (French butter cookie), strawberry cremeux, strawberries, raspberry shavings and flower petals, this was one of the most beautiful creations I’d ever laid eyes on. I was even happier when I began eating this baby, as it tasted just as good as it looked. Not too sweet and smooth with every bite, this strawberry treat hit the spot.

I cannot wait to a return so that I may try Craftsman & Wolve’s famous muffin-like “The Rebel Within” — asiago, sausage, green onion, with a soft cooked egg in the center, which I was informed usually sells out by noon. Now added to my must eat list!

Craftsman & Wolves, 746 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Craftsman and Wolves Desserts

Craftsman & Wolves

Craftsman and Wolves Sandwiches

Craftsman and Wolves

Craftsman & Wolves

Craftsman & Wolves Bakery

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May 22, 2013

Delfina Pizzeria, San Francisco

This past weekend I had a romp in San Francisco and with any travels of mine, whether it be short or long, the first thing on my itinerary is “where to eat.” Delfina Pizzeria has long been on my list of places to grub and the internal hype I built for this culinary outing was not done so in vain. My sister + I threw our name up on the chalkboard waiting list and eagerly awaited to be called after seeing pie after pie of delish thin crust pizza come out the door. The wait wasn’t too long but when we finally pulled up a seat al fresco, our stomachs acted as if we hadn’t eaten in weeks. We were about to go in.

Since we were down for the cause, we wanted to sample a bit of everything. We started our order with a plate of fresh Belfiore Burrata (made in Berkeley), paired with arugula and crispy toast. Next out was the life changing creation known as Saffron Arancini, which were fried saffron risotto balls with cheese. Just image a faded night in front of the tv popping these bad boys – they were a revelation! On to the pizza, because I’m sure some of you are on the edge of your seat. Love me some thin crust and this baby came correct, topped with Prosciutto di Parma, mozzarella, panna and arugula. To round out our meal – yeah we’re still eating here – we chose the Stuffed Shells, packed with ricotta, anchovy, tomato and escarole. Good food, good vibes. Perfect.

Delfina Pizzeria, 3611 18th St San Francisco, CA 94110

Delfina Pizzeria Stuffed Shells

Delfina Pizzeria San Francisco

Delfina Pizzeria Fried Risotto

Delfina Pizzeria Burrata

Delfina Pizzeria Pizza

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May 20, 2013

Burger Joint at Le Parker Meridien Hotel, NYC

The moment I peeped Anthony Bourdain order up some juicy red meat while on The Layover in NYC, I added it to my list of places to eat while on my next romp in the city. He was speaking about Burger Joint, found in the lobby of Le Marker Meridien, located in Midtown Manhattan. This spot possessed all the charm I seek in a hole-in-the-wall burger stand, while being encapsulated in a luxury hotel. Fun times could only await!

I rolled up with my pal Nigel around 7pm, beating the insane crowd (something I’m good at) and it didn’t take long to decide what to order as the menu is pretty cut + dry. I chose a cheeseburger, he choose a burger and we shared some French fries. If you don’t order you burger rare or medium-rare, you can expect major side eye from me. Make sure you’re ready when you reach the register as you will be sent to the back if you’re not! The menu choices are easy, so it shouldn’t be problematic. Our burgers were juicy, so much I needed to be told that I was dripping it all over our seats and a half an inch from my pants. I’m also known for that, just call me Young Stainz. The burgers are classic – how I like – and although not at Shake Shack levels for yours truly, I enjoyed every single bloody bite. Added bonus was that Burger Joint’s fries were my preferred cut and fried to crispy perfection!

Burger Joint, 119 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019

Burger Joint at LE PARKER MERIDIEN Hotel New York

Burger Joint Menu

Burger Joint NYC

Burger Joint NYC

Burger Joint Neon Sign

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May 16, 2013

Eataly, NYC

Have you ever walked into a gourmet market and started crying? I have. Eataly was so incredibly beautiful that my senses immediately became overwhelmed and I didn’t know what to do with myself. Thank goodness my pal Nigel was down for the cause, because watching me totally lose my mind over artisanal breads, fresh pasta, fragrant cheeses and everything in between had to be a site to see. True or False: I asked my friend to take a photo of sliced prosciutto on my face.

No fronting, I am not easily intimidated but the magnitude of this giant space was a force to be reckoned with. I had to quickly decide which direction we were going to take, because getting lost seemed like it could be a legit problem. Eataly encapsulates the phrase “hustle and bustle”, which fills me with positive vibrations, but if you’re looking for something intimate or slow, do not step inside this space. Eating was top priority and the various restaurants were calling our names. It was decided that we’d go for pizza and pasta – making the afternoon a piece of classic NYC. The anticipated wait was 35 mins but we were gucci as time allowed us to pick up some prosciutto, moscato grapes, olives and some Italian sodas for a pre-lunch snack. This tiny meal, despite eating an amazing lunch, satisfied my taste buds most of all; the prosciutto was off the chain and the grapes were the best I’ve ever eaten.

We landed at La Pizza & La Pasta which boasts a menu packed with fresh Neapolitan style pizza. Our meal began with some anitpasti, the Misticanza Salad to be exact, prepared with arugula, radicchio, endive, radish, pickled vegetables and lemon vinaigrette. The greens were fresh and cleansed our palette. My eyes bulged when I saw our pipping hot Massese Pizza hit the table. Topped with mozzarella, tomato sauce, soppressata piccante and extra virgin olive oil, this beautiful creation was light while remaining savory. Nigel (a real pizza man) gave it the thumbs up and I was all smiles with the creation. To round out our meal – can you believe we’re still eating – we chose the Linguine al Pesto Trapanese made with housemade pesto of tomato, basil, almond, garlic, chili flakes and pecorino. I cannot tell you the last time I ordered pasta at a restaurant because I’m not usually about that life, but I managed to savor every bite of the al dente noodles. I was eating like I was on vacay and having a bomb food companion only made the dining experience that much better.

Eataly, 200 5th Ave New York, NY 10010

Eataly Pizza

Eataly Menu

Eataly Mixed Greens Salad

Nasty Nigel Eataly

Eataly Pasta Lunch

Eataly Produce

Eataly Prosciutto

Eataly Pasta

Eataly NYC

Eataly Bread

Eataly Cheese Selection

Eataly NYC Desserts

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May 14, 2013

Momofuku Noodle Bar, NYC

The time had finally come for me to get my slurp on at Momofuku Noodle Bar. On my last trip to NYC I opted for Ippudo over Momo after some cool peeps said it was my best bet in the city. As you may know, ramen is one of my favorite dishes so I was beyond psyched to finally try the spot that I had heard so much about. Typically I’d lead with a bowl of ramen, but I was so impressed with these fried pig tails accompanied by pickled Asian pear, chili, and scallion that it had to be the jump off. I was actually enjoying the pig parts so much that I it took me a few bites until I realized I was also eating the bone/cartilage – whoops! My favorite element of this dish is that the combination of fried pig and pickled pear evoked the familiar taste of pickled pigs feet, a childhood fave of mine.

Like any meal with a boy who hasn’t eaten much outside of The Chicken Shack, I took the reigns of the menu. We started off with a “snack” called the soy sauce egg, topped with crispy shallots, chive, and Maldon. My love for hardboiled eggs knows no bounds and seeing a slightly runny yolk put emjoi hearts into my eyes. No lie, this egg which had been soaked in soy sauce, might be one of the tastiest things to ever pass my lips. Even my lunch companion who was afraid to give it a try, claimed it was poppin, once he had a taste. If you order anything off the menu, let it be this egg, especially if you love all things salty like I do. So how was the ramen? Is what you’re probably asking. Went with the classic and ordered the Momofuku Ramen, which was packed with pork belly, pork shoulder and a poached egg. The broth was flavorful + hearty, the pork delicious and although it was a tasty bowl of noodles, I couldn’t help but think of all the others I loved more than it. Being a rameniac is sometimes a curse because it’s difficult not to judge what you’re eating with the ones that came before. Sounds a little bit like my love life. Momofuku Noodle Bar, 171 1st Ave. New York, NY 10003

Momofuku Pig Tails

Momofuku Noodle bar NYC

Momofuku Soaked Egg

Momofuku Noodle Bar Menu

Momofuku Ramen

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