ANDIAMO RESTAURANT - LOS ANGELES HILTON

ANDIAMO ITALIAN RESTAURANT

HILTON HOTEL - LOS ANGELES AIRPORT

When you fly into Los Angeles and fly out the next day you have no choice but to eat at the hotel where you are staying. Upon arrival to Los Angeles I joined some vendors for a very enjoyable dinner at Andiamo at the Hilton. I started with the Classic Caesar Salad. Crisp lettuce and not overly dressed the way I like it. For my entree I enjoyed pasta with prawns, mushrooms and spicy marinara sauce. The prawns were huge. Probably 6 large pieces. I could barely get down three. I liked the sauce but really did not think that the mushrooms fit the dish. This was a large dish of pasta. Probably enough for two. I got through about half. The best thing about this dinner was the company and wine. Great dinner and conversation.

J.W'S STEAKHOUSE - LOS ANGELES MARRIOTT

J.W.'S STEAKHOUSE

LOS ANGELES MARRIOTT HOTEL

During a very recent and quick visit to Los Angeles on business I was treated to a delicious steak dinner at J.W.'s at the Marriott. This hotel was located next door to the Hilton where we were staying. Both hotels are at the L.A. Airport. I ordered the bone in rib eye cooked medium rare. The steak was large and perfectly cooked. Not a lot of taste. Actually needed salt. The saving grace was the grilled onions that are served with the steak. These little onions were sweet and coupled with the steak made the dish. For my starter I tried the Lobster Bisque soup. It was so so. Not much flavor again. I liked the open kitchen where you can watch the chef cook your steak. I was quite amazed that one cook was turning out dozens of steaks on time and cooked correctly. The place was busy and everything seemed calm.

OAHU COUNTRY CLUB GOLF COURSE - HONOLULU, HAWAII

OAHU COUNTRY CLUB

HONOLULU, HI

I love to get invited to the Oahu Country Club. Since I am not a member, everything is free.

This weekend we enjoyed breakfast in the club restaurant. The place is a bit out dated and the waitresses are very old, but the service is excellent and the members are gracious. I have not eaten a Loco Moco which is one of Hawaii's most famous breakfasts for many years. Just not interested in filling my body with all that fat and calories. Well, I was craving a burger and opted for the Loco Moco which is rice, hamburger patty, two eggs covered in gravy. I asked the waitress to make my Loco Moco with Fried Rice. She said she had never heard of that and questioned if the fried rice would go with gravy. I said lets try it and she did.  This was a huge portion. Lots of fried rice, then a large beef patty topped with two sunny side up eggs. Everything was covered in a rich dark gravy. Simply stated; delicious. The breakfast was better than my golf game, but I don't think I will order this dish before playing again. By the second hole, I was going crazy trying to find a bathroom.

OAHU COUNTRY CLUB IS BEAUTIFUL

LOCO MOCO

RAIN OR SHINE IT IS STILL PRETTY NICE UP HERE

LE GUIGNOL FRENCH RESTAURANT

LE GUIGNOL FRENCH RESTAURANT

HONOLULU, HI

I have lived in Hawaii for around 20 years. During this time, I have always wanted to visit

Le Guignol. There is not much advertising or press for this place. In fact, you really never hear about it. I remember hearing about it several times when they changed ownership. Why I never dined here is a mystery. Well last week I was with a business associate and we needed to find a quick lunch. We drove right past Le Guignol and saw lots of street parking. That was it. We ventured in at around 1:30 in the afternoon while most tables were requesting for their checks. The service was a bit slow because there was only one person on the floor. I was interested to see what the menu would reveal. For lunch there are selections of mostly crepes, salads and sandwiches. There also was a nice sounding Frois Gras dish that one day I will try.

I opted for the Beef Sandwich with Gruyere Cheese and Horseradish served with a light salad for around $8. My guest enjoyed a sandwich that was chicken for about the same price. Don't remember what was in his sandwich but he said that it was fantastic. My sandwich was perfect. Great meat flavor, the cheese and a nice bite of horseradish to finish the taste. Served on a perfect piece of french bread. The waiter recovered from the slam and took good care of our table and expedited our check so we could get out on a timely basis. I can't wait to return here for another lunch or better yet dinner. You can bring your own wine too.

HONOLULU, HI

BISTRO CASANOVA - KAHULUI, MAUI

BISTRO CASAVOVA

KAHULUI, MAUI, HI

While in Maui on business, my customer recommended we dine at Bistro Casanova in Kahului because it was just minutes from the airport. This was a great recommendation. Bistro Casanova serves Italian dishes, steaks, tapas and some seafood. I ordered the Caesar Salad ($7) and was amazed when it was brought to the table. The portion was enough for two people. I actually gave half to my guest. The crunchy romaine coupled with a not too heavy dressing and large fresh anchovies made this a really good salad. I enjoyed the Tagliatelle Alla Bolognese ($14) for my entree. Again a huge portion was delivered to my table. This dish features fresh large noodles with homemade meat sauce and three delicious meat balls. I loved the dish. Meaty sauce plus the meatballs that were moist and flavorful. My guests enjoyed the Bouillabaisse ($26). This is a rich seafood and saffron soup with fresh fish, mussels, clams, shrimp, calamari, scallops, potatoes, tomatoes and zucchini served with two garlic crostini. Looked good and there was nothing left on the plate so must have been good. Our other guest enjoyed the Fresh Catch of the day. Fresh Mahi Mahi served over a bed of spinach and some other stuff. He loved it. I am looking forward to returning to Bistro Casanova on Maui. I would order the Tagliatelle Alla Bolognese in a heart beat.

RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE - $39.95 SPECIAL

RUTH'S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE

WAIKIKI, HI

There is a special deal at Ruth's Chris that is totally the best buy of any fine dining steak house. For $39.95 you get an entree, salad, side dish and desert. This is the steak house deal of the year and not to be missed. Me and my friends have enjoyed this special several times during the past few months. Everyone agrees it is fantastic. You need to place your order for this special before 6:00 pm. I like the Ruth's Chris Steak House in Waikiki over the one in Restaurant Row because of the excellent service. We have been getting a table outside the past two visits. You can start your meal here with some free freshly made potato chips at the bar. The chips are crunchy and salty. Perfect with a cold beer. The bartenders here are top notch and go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable and filled with their spirits. For my $39.95 meal, I started with a Caesar Salad. Fresh crisp romaine tossed with Romano Cheese and a creamy Caesar dressing. Topped with shaved Parmesan cheese, tomatoes, croutons and some Parmesan cheese crisps that are delicious. The salad is served chilled and with a chilled fork. Simply perfect. I chose the Petit Filet for my entree. A perfectly cooked filet of beef served on a sizzling plate and covered in butter. My steak was a perfect medium rare. My side dish was grilled Tomatoes lightly salted and topped with brown sugar. They are thick and very tasty. We shared other sides such as Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Sauteed Mushrooms. Both dishes were delicious. For desert I enjoyed a strawberry sorbet while my friends feasted on a Bread Pudding. This is hands down the best fine dining deal in Hawaii. Highly recommend you visit Ruth's Chris Waikiki for this fantastic dinner.
Click links below for more posts on Ruth's Chris;

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2023/03/ruths-chris-waikiki.html

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2022/05/ruths-chris-waikiki.html

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2021/11/ruths-chris-waikiki.html

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2021/07/ruths-chris-waikiki.html

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2021/06/ruths-chris-waikiki.html

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2021/05/ruths-chris-steakhouse-again.html

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2021/05/ruths-chris-steak-house-five-nights-in.html

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2015/01/ruths-chris-steak-house-waikiki.html

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2011/10/ruth-chris-steakhouse-waikiki.html

THE PETITE FILET

THE BBQ STICK MAN

THE BBQ STICK MAN

HONOLULU, HI

We literally stumbled across this little place located on Campbell Street in Honolulu. While parking my car to go to Ricos Tacos, I saw a sign that read "The BBQ Man Behind the Containers". There were containers stacked in a yard. We walked around and found a cute little grub truck with a few tables next to a recycling place and limo company. The BBQ Sticks are $2 each. We tried the steak, chicken and crispy chicken. The sign said to be patient because all of the Sticks are good to order on the grill. We liked the beef and chicken but were not impressed with the house specialty crispy chicken. This place also serves shrimp and plate lunches for around $6.

TACO RICOS

TACO RICOS

HONOLULU, HI

UPDATE: 2012 - TACO RICOS CLOSED.  I CALLED THIS ONE RIGHT.

We have been waiting to try Taco Ricos for months. Located on Kapahulu Avenue we drive by it all the time. The reviews for the tacos here have been pretty good. In fact, one review said they had the best tacos in Hawaii. We entered the place to find two employees behind the counter. The just stared at us as if we were aliens. No hello. No can I help you. No get lost. The menu is hand written on a board above the counter. There are tacos, burritos, nachos and a fish dish. Not much of an explanation on the board. The tacos served are small 4" soft type that are supposed to be like Mexico Street Tacos. We tried the Carnitas, Carne Asada and Cabeza (cheeks). When I ordered the Carne Asada the guy snapped back "burrito, taco or what". Taco I said. Then I ordered the Carnitas and loudly said TACO. Then the Cabeza TACO. The guy had the personality of a pinto bean but the bean would be more dynamic. We ordered the beans and rice. They were served in a cup. I have never seen anything more stupid. There is a cart by the counter where you order filled with cilantro, onions, jalapenos and sauces. The cart has a large sign on it that reads "Not for Tacos. For burritos only". Thought this was a taco joint. Our tacos came quickly served on a single paper plate. The guy said there was a taco bar in the back with condiments for the tacos. The bar lid was closed so it looked like nothing. I opened the lid and found cilantro, onions, jalapenos, hot sauce, avocado type sauce, marinated onions, radish and maybe some other stuff. The hot sauce was not too hot and did not have much flavor. The carne asada tacos were o.k. The carnitas was o.k. The cabeza was not my favorite. Probably will not return to Taco Ricos. The Tacos are about $2 each.

THE WILD BEAN

THE WILD BEAN COFFEE TRUCK

KALIHI

There is a coffee truck parked on the side of the road at the corner of Puahale and Dillingham. Directly across from the prison and next to a small market. Lines of people (mostly men) line up to get this coffee. I just had to see why the Wild Bean has such loyal customers. The coffee must be really good. Or maybe it is the smoothies that attract such a crowd. I tried the Strawberry and Banana Smoothie. Can't remember the price. Tasted bland but was a great experience. Would definitely go back. Why you ask? Because the girls serving the coffee here are dressed (or undressed) in skimpy little underwear. Yes that is the secret here. Best thing is that the girls here are actually "hot". Rockin little packages wearing almost nothing. I have been twice (doing research) and both times the girls were top notch. As you can see in the video, the fresh buns are perfect.

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STEAK AND LOBSTER DINNER

DINNER WITH FRIENDS

HOME

Shirley cooked up some magnificent lobster tails for my friend Greg, his lovely gal Yuko and daughter Paris. I have known Greg for twenty years and it is amazing to see us now with daughters that are 9 and 12 years old. Wow...how the time has passed so fast.  Our dinner began with a light and refreshing calamari salad with cucumber, onion, tomato, fresh mint and a balsamic vinegar dressing. This is a great salad. Shirley is the master of cooking steak and lobster. Her presentations are also fantastic. These large lobster tails were served up with garlic mashed potatoes and french green beans with shallots and bacon. This was the monster meal. I was so full that I could not finish my lobster meat.

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KELI & AUTUMN MAKE PIZZA

KELI & AUTUMN MAKING PIZZA

HOME

These days there is nothing better than staying home with Keli. Watching her learn, grow and have fun is a blessing and the happiest part of my life. One of her best friends from school came over for a sleep over. They made pizza, played and watched a movie. Ahhh. what a joy it would be to be nine years old again. The pizza came out o.k. but the crust was a little soggy in the middle. We need to work on perfecting the made at home pizza.

ROYS' 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION - HAWAII KAI, HAWAII

4TH OF JULY

ROY'S HAWAII KAI

We had a wonderful day of great food, fireworks and friends this 4th of July. Corey, Sarah and Colette joined forces with us to indulge in too much food and just enough wine at Roy's Restaurant in Hawaii Kai. You cannot beat Roy's for the 4th. They offer indoor/outdoor seating directly on the bay where the fireworks go off. We scored a great table under a tree on the front lawn. For $60 you get admission to the restaurant and all you can eat from 5:00 to 9:00 pm. We attended this event last year and were blown away by the food, service and fireworks. This year the service and fireworks were still great, but the food didn't have the bang. We started with three different Poke dishes. All pretty bland and tasteless. Most of them were not eaten after a bite or two. Honestly, you can get better Poke at Foodland. My girls enjoyed some Root Beer and Lemonade as the others made their way into a Cakebread Chardonnay. Yummy stuff. We paired the wine with crab cakes, shrimp skewers, oysters, soft shell crab burger and a lobster hot dog. The lobster dogs kinda sort of taste like lobster, but lack any real taste. Everyone loved the soft shell crab burgers. They were a hit. I wondered around the various food stations and picked up a mini hot dog, lamb burger, meatloaf burger and some ribs. I loved the mini hot dog. The mini lamb burger and meatloaf burger were also good. The Roy's ribs were fantastic. Keli enjoyed cotton candy and a Root Beer Float. We had an apple thing for desert. Shirley got some vanilla ice cream from the root beer float booth and we made a nice little dish with the apple thing and ice cream. The buffet stations also had great corn on the cob, rice, pork, chicken and some other stuff that I never had room to try. Sarah and Colette made the rounds across the street where dozens of booths were set up to sell food, advertise products and promote various political candidates. After the great fireworks display Corey showed up with a cheeseburger. We split it and ended the night so full that we could barely walk out of the place. The fireworks were spectacular and the Roy's location is absolutely the best seat in the house. Once again the service was great at Roy's. They do a really good job taking care of their customers.  Videos below.

https://www.greateatshawaii.com/2013/07/roys-hawaii-kai-4th-of-july-celebration.html

https://www.greateatshawaii.com/2012/07/roys-hawaii-kai-4th-of-july-celebration.html

https://www.greateatshawaii.com/2011/07/roys-hawaii-kai-4th-of-july-celebration.html

https://www.greateatshawaii.com/2010/07/happy-4th-of-july-at-roys-hawaii-kai.html

https://www.greateatshawaii.com/2009/07/roys-4th-of-july-bbq-hawaii-kai-wow.html

CHEF ROY YAMAGUCHI

FATHERS DAY AT HOME 2010

FATHERS DAY AT HOME

HONOLULU, HI

I am a very blessed man. Woke up to the two most beautiful woman in the world today. Had a Eggs Benedict breakfast served with fresh strawberries. After church we came home and worked on the computer, played some volleyball and did some reading. To cap off the day my lovely bride made me a huge lobster dinner with rice, salad and fresh vegetables. This lobster was huge and delicious. I would write more but my girls just presented me with some chocolate covered strawberries.

NICE LOBSTER TAIL FOR DAD

EGGS BENEDICT FOR BREAKFAST

AIR FORCE ONE - REAGAN LIBRARY

AIR FORCE ONE

RONALD REAGAN LIBRARY

SIMI VALLEY, CA

The beautiful Boeing 707 with tail number 27000 dramatically fills an air conditioned space at the Reagan Library. Richard Nixon was the first President to fly aboard 27000. Ford, Carter, Reagan, H.W. Bush, Clinton and W. Bush all used this historic piece of aviation history. The President now flies in a Boeing 747 with tail number 28000. Air Force One was disassembled over a nine week period by a nine-person crew from Boeing. The plane was transported to the Reagan Library by truck and the reassembled in 2003. The Air Force One Pavilion opened to the public in 2005. You can walk through the plane and see where our Commander and Chief conducted business. We could not take photos inside the aircraft. The Pavilion also includes Marine One Helicopter and a replica of a Presidential motorcade complete with Presidential limo, chase vehicle and escort police.

AIR FORCE ONE AT THE REAGAN LIBRARY

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THE OVAL OFFICE - REAGAN LIBRARY

REAGAN LIBRARY

SIMI VALLEY, CA

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley is a must do when in California if you are a Republican and love Ronald Reagan. The library is beautiful set amidst the rolling hills of California. Within the library is an exact replica of Ronald Reagan's Oval Office from the White House.

OVAL OFFICE REAGAN LIBRARY

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WINE STEALS - SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

WINE STEALS

SAN DIEGO, CA

We left the Padre Baseball game and walked around the block to center field. Right near the park was a great little wine bar called Wine Steals. This place is great. It is a wine store and bar/restaurant. You walk the isles and pick a bottle of vino and then belly up to the bar. The bartender (who was fantastic) opens the wine and tells you about it. We enjoyed a great tasting cheese plate and flat bread pizza. Great way to end the evening.

WINE STEALS ROCKS

DRINK AND BUY WINE AT WINE STEALS

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THE CLAIM JUMPER

CLAIM JUMPER

ANAHEIM, CA

We planned a dinner to see my Mom, brother and sister a few days before my mom had some surgery. Turns out 16 family members turned out for a great dinner at the Claim Jumper. I love the Claim Jumper because they have large portions, fair prices, good food and a nice salad bar. Prior to my arrival we called the family to tell them to order some appetizers because we were running late from the airport. The appetizer platters were on the tables when we arrived. The combo platters ($19.95) included chicken wings, potato skins, parmesan Zucchini Spears, Mozzarella Sticks, Onion Rings, Egg Rolls and Fire-Roasted Artichoke with dipping sauces. After that, I was in for only the salad bar ($10.75). The table enjoyed a variety of dishes. The Prime Rib ($26.95), Full Rack of Pork Ribs ($22.95) and Turkey Supper ($13.95) looked really good. Others feasted on Prime Sirloin ($18.95) and New York Steak ($25.95). I did try the Tomato and Basil Pizza ($9.95). It was terrible because there was no red sauce. No sauce equal no flavor in my book. Citrus Serano Shrimp Pasta ($15.95), BBQ Chicken Salad ($10.95) and Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo ($9.95) were also consumed with happiness. My nephew loved the "Widow Maker Burger". Applewood smoked bacon, hand-battered onion rings, avocado, double thick Tillamook cheddar, may and relish on a half pound patty ($10.95). The desserts here were amazing starting with the Chocolate Mother Load Cake ($9.95). This is a twenty two year tradition at the Claim Jumper. Six decadent layers of chocolate cake and rich chocolate fudge icing topped with walnuts. This cake was named one of the five most decadent desserts by the Food Network. I loved it. We tried the Chocolate Chip Calzone ($7.50). Baked fresh in the stone hearth oven with white chocolate and bittersweet chocolate chips, vanilla bean ice cream and homemade whipped cream. The Warm English Coffee Cake ($3.95) had rich brown sugar and date cake nestled in warm toffee sauce with ice cream and whipped cream. Last but not least came the Carmel Apple Cream Cheese Pie ($7.50).  What a great meal with the family. I was able to listen to great stories from my sisters husband Dane and got caught up with my newly retired brother, hard working sister and mom along with their kids.

 

THE CLAIM JUMPER

 

SPLASH MOUNTAIN - DISNEYLAND

SPLASH MOUNTAIN

DISNEYLAND, CA

We had the absolute best trip to Disneyland ever because Keli is now 9 years old and could enjoy all the rides. One of her favorite is Splash Mountain. Watch the video and see the ride. That is not me screaming, probably the guy behind me.

THE BEST PART OF SPLASH MOUNTIAN

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COCINA CUCAMONGA - CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK

COCINA CUCAMONGA

CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK

We had to try the Mexican food at California Adventure Park next to Disneyland. It was actually pretty good for amusement park grub. I had a steak burrito that was full of marinated meat.

COCINA CUCAMONGA STEAK BURRITO

COCINA CUCAMONGA AT CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK

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BIG THUNDER RANCH BBQ - DISNEYLAND

BIG THUNDER RANCH BBQ

DISNEYLAND, CA

Hidden away near the Big Thunder ride at Disneyland is an absolutely great place to eat. I mean really good. Excellent. Fantastic. This place is the bomb for BBQ. While a little pricy at about $20 per person, it is an "all you can eat" deal and the food is GREAT.  The wait staff begins by bringing a bucket filled with bbq ribs and chicken. Then follows with bowls of cole slaw, baked beans and corn bread. The meal includes drinks served in canning jars. I absolutely loved the ribs and chicken. Full of great bbq taste. Looks like they have a dry rub and follow it up with a wet sauce. What ever they did it works. Probably some of the best BBQ I have ever had. The BBQ rib meat falls off the bone. The chicken surprised me because the flavor penetrated deep into the meat and was not only on the skin. Even the beans and slaw were great. Everyone loved the corn bread too. End the meal with crisp slices of water melon and you have one of the best meals you can buy at Disneyland. My only complaint is that I was not that hungry. Wish I could have enjoyed much ...much more.

TASTE OF HAWAII FAVORITE.  

Click below for another post on Big Thunder Ranch BBQ

http://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2011/03/big-thunder-bbq-disneyland.html

VIDEO OF BIG THUNDER RANCH BBQ

RALPH BRENNAN'S JAZZ KITCHEN - ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA

RALPH BRENNAN'S JAZZ KITCHEN

ANAHEIM, CA (Disney Walk)

I really enjoyed our dinner at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen. The conversation with my socialist friend who lives in L.A. couldn't even ruin my appetite. We were seated in the middle courtyard right next to the fountain in the picture. The wait staff was excellent and really kept our food coming. We started with the Bourbon Street Sampler ($15).  This included BBQ pork sliders, Creole Calamari, Coconut Shrimp, Blackened Spring Rolls. The BBQ sliders were delicious. We tried the Filet Mignon Muffuletta ($12). Filet Mignon on a rosemary ciabatta bread, hothouse tomatoes, olive oil and provolone cheese. This was o.k. but nowhere as good as the Muffuletta's served in New Orleans. The BBQ Gulf Shrimp ($11) tasted just like New Orleans. Great peppery sauce and large fresh shrimp. I had the Pasta Jambalaya for my entree ($24). Gulf Shrimp, Andouille Sausage, Roasted Chicken served on a bed of spinach linguine. This dish was the bomb. The pasta was cooked to perfection. Loved the Creole sauce. My socialist friend had the Salmon with Crab ($26). Must have been good because he devoured the entire plate. The Seafood Jambalaya ($27) was too salty to eat. We mentioned this to the waiter but he really didn't seem to care and did not offer an alternative. All in all, the food here was good. I would recommend this place if you are visiting Disneyland or the Anaheim area.

RALPH BRENNAN'S JAZZ KITCHEN

A SLICE OF NEW ORLEANS IN ANAHEM

BAY CITIES DELI - SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA

BAY CITIES DELI

SANTA MONICA, CA

After seeing the "Godmother" sandwich featured on the Food Network as one of the best things between bread, I just had to find the place and have a bite. My GPS took us right from Philippe in Downtown Los Angeles to Bay Cities in Santa Monica. This place is so busy that they have a parking attendant in the lot making sure people get in and out quickly. I liked this place the moment I walked in.  It is actually a deli, bakery and store. While you wait for your sandwich, you can walk the isles and see some really good food items. I took a number and waited at least thirty minutes before my number was called. I approached the counter and ordered the Godmother with The Works - mayo, yellow mustard, dijon mustard, onions, pickles, tomato, lettuce, peppers and Italian dressing. Once I had this prized possession in hand we grabbed one of the outside tables in front of the deli. The first thing you notice is the fresh baked Italian Roll. This is a delicious and chewy bread that just makes the sandwich pop with flavor. I could taste all of the ingredients. The meat, cheese, veggies and great Italian dressing. This is the bomb of a sandwich. I think the sandwich cost around $8 or $9.

THE GODMOTHER IS AWESOME!

BAY CITIES DELI IN SANTA MONICA

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MINNOW CAFE - SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA

MINNOW CAFE

SANTA BARBARA

My Dad and his wife know that my family loves to try tacos whenever we travel. Upon our arrival in Santa Barbara they quickly took us to a great little hole in the wall on a small pier. We tried a steak taco and a fish taco. Both were delicious. What a great spot to sit outside and dine too. I enjoyed both types of tacos and the chips with hot sauce. One tub of hot sauce really had a kick. I could not stop eating it. Minnow is a best kept secret in Santa Barbara according to many web reviews. I would gladly return to this little spot

THE MINNOW CAFE IN SANTA BARBARA

JUST A SMALL PLACE NEAR THE WATER

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PHILIPPE FRENCH DIPPED SANDWICH - LOS ANGELES

PHILIPPE FRENCH DIPPED SANDWICH

LOS ANGELES, CA

Philippe The Original was established in 1908 and is one of the oldest and most well known restaurants in Los Angeles. In 1918, the owner dropped a french roll into a roasting pan filled with juice still hot from the oven. A policeman said that he would take the sandwich anyway and the French Dipped Sandwich was born. The restaurant is quite large when you get inside and the floor is covered in saw dust. You stand in line and then order at the huge deli counter. The staff was very courteous and our food came out quickly. We tried a Beef Dip ($5.75) and a Pork Dip ($5.75). The sandwiches were filled with meat and soaking the "jus". I liked the Beef Dip with the famous Philippe home made mustard. A bit spicy with a kick. The Cole Slaw ($1.15) was really tangy but good. We tried the Chiken & Wild Rice Soup of the Day ($2.35). My girls said it was one of the best they have ever tasted. There are also Lamb, Ham and Turkey Dipped Sandwiches on the menu as well as salads, Chili and Stew. This was a must do for me while in Los Angeles. Just had to go here once to try it. Would love to return someday for another world famous French Dip.

PHILIPPE FRENCH DIPPED SANDWICH 

PHILIPPE FRENCH DIPPED SANDWICH IN LOS ANGELES

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HARBOR RESTAURANT - SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA

HARBOR RESTAURANT

SANTA BARBARA, CA

We hit Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara on a cool summer night at sunset. This is a beautiful part of California and the restaurant overlooks the beach. It does not get much better. We were greeted by a happy and professional staff that set the tone for a wonderful evening. We were seated at a table in the shape of a sail boat and complete with sail. We started with some Fried Calamari ($13). Large pieces of squid battered to perfection. This was followed by Steamed Clams ($15) that were large and flavorful. The next appetizer blew my socks off. It was so good that I have been thinking about it everyday. The dish was Lobster Mac and Cheese ($19). Large pieces of lobster tail served in a not too cheesy but creamy Mac and Cheese. Absolutely the bomb. I would go back to Santa Barbara just to eat this dish. I had a cup of Clam Chowder ($8) that was just delicious. Filled with clams, creamy and delicious. My Nephew had the Prime Rib ($29) and it looked fantastic. He loved every bite. My daughter ordered the Caesar Salad ($9). It was presented like no other I have ever seen. Standing up and tied together with a green onion. Very impressive presentation. The Salmon ($26) and Halibut ($34) were pricey but beautifully presented and I was told very delicious. The Linguini Pescato ($24) with clams, fish and calamari was absolutely delicious. The pasta was cooked perfectly and the seafood was excellent. We ended the meal with a huge Cookie Monster ($8) which was ice cream sandwiched between a really good chocolate chip cookie and covered in whip creme. The absolute bomb of a dessert. The cookie was warm and soft. Not hard like every other place I have had this type of dessert. This was an incredible meal with family. One of the best if not THE BEST of our entire trip. Cannot wait to return. While the prices are a bit high, this is great quality, presentation and service. Could be a TASTE OF HAWAII FAVORITE

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