The gizzards are coming, the gizzards are coming....
Passing down Orange-Olive Road in Orange this Saturday, a "broaster chicken" sign caught my eye. It was in front of the Hida'way restaurant. I hung a u-turn and pulled in. The Hida'way had been closed down for a few years, now it's been re-vamped and is open for business.
Walking in the front door I saw a 8-piece broasted chicken (4 breasts/4 wings) for $9.99. A bargain if you consider by the piece it's $2.49 a breast. The place looked clean and the smell of chicken permeated the air. A young couple ahead of me asked if they were still serving breakfast, "sure" was the reply "until 2:00pm." Wow, you mean I can tie one on Friday night, sleep in and still not miss a great breakfast after sleeping in on a Saturday! Nice.
I was greeted at the counter by whom I assume was the owner, he was nice & polite and even offed me a free drink (soda that is, for now, until they get their liquor license..) Nah, I said, he smiled nodded his head and said "it's on the house"....ok, ok...thanks "Mr Hida'way!
After ordering chicken and onion rings I sat back and took the place in...nice, simple,..uhh, a "hida'way" if you will. I asked the counter girl if they offered chicken gizzards or livers?? "No, but ask the owner". He said, they were going to start serving them next week, seems "Mr Hida'way" has some prior experience in the "chicken biz" and even in the sales of good old fashioned gizzards....Say it ain't so, since the old extinct "Pioneer Chicken" closed down years ago, gizzards and livers are hard to come by.......
As I grabbed my box of chicken and rings I looked at the owner and stated "I'll be back" (in my best "terminator" voice) as I thought about the possibility of a cold beer and mini bucket of gizzards and livers.....Ah, as I drove off, I thought "LG" baby, life is good!
I have a feeling this little restaurant is gonna be packed full of chicken loving people in the near future. I recommend everyone to try it!
Food - A
Service - A
Setting - C (for location), A (cleanliness)
Hida'way Restaurant
2117 N. Orange Olive Rd
Orange, CA
714-998-6756
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Z Pizza / Anaheim Hills
Ahhhhh, Pizza....Z-Pizza to be exact. Tucked away in a shopping center at Imperial Hwy & Santa Ana Canyon Rd lays Z-Pizza...Sounds trendy and all. Maybe a franchise out of Westwood or Beverly Hills. The upper class in A.H. should eat this up (pardon, the pun...) Conveniently located in the FoxFire center, c'mon you know where I'm talking about.
Ok, so I get this coupon for a free 10" pizza (with a $5 purchase) I can do this, sounds good right? I go to their website, and complete the online ordering system, now set my watch for 15 minutes and head down and pic it up....NOT!
I hold off drinking my first beer (safety first my little astronauts..) and drive down at the designated time (per my online order..) I was greeted at the counter by a kid who stated, "Hmm, it didn't come through..." but after taking another look, yes it had, they just didn't start the order yet. Ok, so here I sit on a Friday night, sober, 8 o'clock waiting for an order I "onlined" (is that a word??) in, going on 30 minutes now. Now, all I could do is stare out the window, waiting for my order, watching the ummm, older "hipster" crowd starting to crawl into the Foxfire.
Maybe they'll upgrade me to a large due to their mistake...not a chance kiddo. I left with my 10"......pizza...and a slight scowl on my face.
Now the good part, Z-Pizza's food is quite tasty, I had the Thai pizza, and a "pollo latino" (can girls order those too?? wouldn't it be a pollo latina?? Dos anos espanol buddy...) It's a crazy lime chicken sandwich that's A-ok, complete with avocado....me like it!
So, Z-Pizza is good, just make sure you either call in your order or confirm it so you're not out standing in the cold waiting, watching, and wondering why you're seeing your mom all dolled up walking towards the Foxfire...Yikes....
Food - A
Service - D (due to their online ordering or staff not paying attention..)
Prices - Great (with a coupon)
Z-Pizza
5745 Santa Ana Canyon Rd
Anaheim Hills, CA 92807
714-998-4171
www.zpizza.com
Ok, so I get this coupon for a free 10" pizza (with a $5 purchase) I can do this, sounds good right? I go to their website, and complete the online ordering system, now set my watch for 15 minutes and head down and pic it up....NOT!
I hold off drinking my first beer (safety first my little astronauts..) and drive down at the designated time (per my online order..) I was greeted at the counter by a kid who stated, "Hmm, it didn't come through..." but after taking another look, yes it had, they just didn't start the order yet. Ok, so here I sit on a Friday night, sober, 8 o'clock waiting for an order I "onlined" (is that a word??) in, going on 30 minutes now. Now, all I could do is stare out the window, waiting for my order, watching the ummm, older "hipster" crowd starting to crawl into the Foxfire.
Maybe they'll upgrade me to a large due to their mistake...not a chance kiddo. I left with my 10"......pizza...and a slight scowl on my face.
Now the good part, Z-Pizza's food is quite tasty, I had the Thai pizza, and a "pollo latino" (can girls order those too?? wouldn't it be a pollo latina?? Dos anos espanol buddy...) It's a crazy lime chicken sandwich that's A-ok, complete with avocado....me like it!
So, Z-Pizza is good, just make sure you either call in your order or confirm it so you're not out standing in the cold waiting, watching, and wondering why you're seeing your mom all dolled up walking towards the Foxfire...Yikes....
Food - A
Service - D (due to their online ordering or staff not paying attention..)
Prices - Great (with a coupon)
Z-Pizza
5745 Santa Ana Canyon Rd
Anaheim Hills, CA 92807
714-998-4171
www.zpizza.com
The Sandwich Box / Tustin
I had heard about "The Sandwich Box" (yeah, that's what I said...get your mind outta the gutter..) and it's fried green tomato sandwich righteously called "The Southern". We pulled through old town Tustin (pretty quaint if you will...) and arrived at lunchtime at "the box", Ok, "The Sandwich Box"...... It's in what looks like a newly remodeled little corner strip mall off 1st St & Prospect.
We were greeted at the counter, and my better half had to take her time to choose a sandwich, would it be "The Cuban"(Listed as Miami's favorite with oven roasted pork, ham & swiss) or perhaps "The New Yorker" (with shaved pastrami, sauerkraut & swiss) Hey, what about "The Italian" (A sub just like little Italy...) Well I bet you can guess "the box" has a wide variety of old classics and specialty sandwiches.
I had "The Southern" (fried green tomatoes & ham.....) she had the cashew chicken. We both upgraded to a combo (with chips & a drink) for $1.99 more. Hey, c'mon, I'm not a cheap date....
We were given our cups and pointed to the soda dispenser in the corner, Within a couple minutes or sandwiches were ushered to the table. Ahhhh, the fried green tomatoes peeked out among with the ham & lettuce. It was goooood..& did I say a bit messy.....I finally ate the remainder with a fork. My better half's cashew chicken was awesome (yes, I had a bite of it..I gotta write the review you know..)lots of chicken & celery..It was a foot long...guess I'll be eating some tonight.
The joint was clean, the small staff friendly, and not a bad locale. I give it a thumbs up and a must try if you're around the Tustin area...even if you're not.
But do me a favor, try "The Southern" you'll love it. Makes me feel like jumpin' in a Trans Am, popping a Hamm's beer and heading out to the dirt track races........
Food - A
Service - A
Place - B
the sandwich box
139 w. first st
tustin, ca 92780
714-734-9300
We were greeted at the counter, and my better half had to take her time to choose a sandwich, would it be "The Cuban"(Listed as Miami's favorite with oven roasted pork, ham & swiss) or perhaps "The New Yorker" (with shaved pastrami, sauerkraut & swiss) Hey, what about "The Italian" (A sub just like little Italy...) Well I bet you can guess "the box" has a wide variety of old classics and specialty sandwiches.
I had "The Southern" (fried green tomatoes & ham.....) she had the cashew chicken. We both upgraded to a combo (with chips & a drink) for $1.99 more. Hey, c'mon, I'm not a cheap date....
We were given our cups and pointed to the soda dispenser in the corner, Within a couple minutes or sandwiches were ushered to the table. Ahhhh, the fried green tomatoes peeked out among with the ham & lettuce. It was goooood..& did I say a bit messy.....I finally ate the remainder with a fork. My better half's cashew chicken was awesome (yes, I had a bite of it..I gotta write the review you know..)lots of chicken & celery..It was a foot long...guess I'll be eating some tonight.
The joint was clean, the small staff friendly, and not a bad locale. I give it a thumbs up and a must try if you're around the Tustin area...even if you're not.
But do me a favor, try "The Southern" you'll love it. Makes me feel like jumpin' in a Trans Am, popping a Hamm's beer and heading out to the dirt track races........
Food - A
Service - A
Place - B
the sandwich box
139 w. first st
tustin, ca 92780
714-734-9300
Monday, March 24, 2008
Mikey's / Fullerton
Now this is the place. When my old WWII vet dad kept talkng about the awesome sandwiches at a place called "Mikey's" over in Fullerton I knew I had to try it.
Close to the cross streets of Yorba Linda Blvd & Placentia Ave, this place is really tucked in a corner and you gotta look for it. You figure if an old guy (sorry dad...) gets his eats here it must be pretty mundane...Not the case for Mikey's. As we neared the entrance, you pass thru a small patio areas (for the smokers in your crowd) and on thru the door.
As we passed by the small groups of what apperaed to be locals, we were greeted by a cheery & cute bartender/waitress...(Hmmm, now I think I know why my dad goes there, he may be old, but he ain't dead....) It's a cool crowd with no tension in at all. Beer was flowing and so was the good eats. I ordered a "Knucklehead" sandwich (hey, wha'd you call me?...) and my wife had a french dip......Mikey's knucklehead dip is a combo with roast beef, turkey and pastrami, also sauerkraut. Good food, me like!
Well pops was right, the sandwiches were incredible! And the prices didn't kick my ass. The lunch special includes two sandwiches, two sides, and two drinks for $10.95! What a deal.......
I heard Happy Hour rocks...and so does the pool table and shuffleboard.
I don't care if you're 12 yrs old or 100, Ya gotta try Mikey's, #1 in our book.
Prices - A
Service - A
Looks of the Server - A+
Food - A
Mikey's
3159 Yorba Linda Blvd
Fullerton, CA
714-528-9150
Close to the cross streets of Yorba Linda Blvd & Placentia Ave, this place is really tucked in a corner and you gotta look for it. You figure if an old guy (sorry dad...) gets his eats here it must be pretty mundane...Not the case for Mikey's. As we neared the entrance, you pass thru a small patio areas (for the smokers in your crowd) and on thru the door.
As we passed by the small groups of what apperaed to be locals, we were greeted by a cheery & cute bartender/waitress...(Hmmm, now I think I know why my dad goes there, he may be old, but he ain't dead....) It's a cool crowd with no tension in at all. Beer was flowing and so was the good eats. I ordered a "Knucklehead" sandwich (hey, wha'd you call me?...) and my wife had a french dip......Mikey's knucklehead dip is a combo with roast beef, turkey and pastrami, also sauerkraut. Good food, me like!
Well pops was right, the sandwiches were incredible! And the prices didn't kick my ass. The lunch special includes two sandwiches, two sides, and two drinks for $10.95! What a deal.......
I heard Happy Hour rocks...and so does the pool table and shuffleboard.
I don't care if you're 12 yrs old or 100, Ya gotta try Mikey's, #1 in our book.
Prices - A
Service - A
Looks of the Server - A+
Food - A
Mikey's
3159 Yorba Linda Blvd
Fullerton, CA
714-528-9150
The Clubhouse Restaurant / Costa Mesa
Ahhhh, the good life. Situated at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. My wife was dying to try it, so I figured "what the hey", lets do it! I gotta admit I was a little intimidated at first, It is South Coast Plaza you know. Me in my t-shirt and jeans, we were enthusiastically welcomed upon entry (Maybe they thought I was some burnt out rock star, or musician...) whatever the case were were escorted to the back door...(just jokin') We were escorted to a cozy table for two, and the specials were explained to us.
Oh course I started with a Guiness on tap which was by all means GOOD. Looking around you could tell there were some power players, soccers moms, and just ordinary joes. It was a cool crowd buzzing with conversation (no, not me buzzing, the crowd..)
I had The Clubhouse Garbage Salad (see, I told you these were down to earth people), it had grilled chicken, egg, cheese, tomato, green onion, bacon + more......Good, and not too filling. My wife had the roasted jalapeno jack burger. She was in heaven...
The food was great, prices not bad, and the service was class "A". End result, A Winner!
Pull up your Benz to the valet parking and check out The Clubhouse Restaurant the next time you're at South Coast Plaza looking for that new Rolex.
Prices - B
Service - A
Food - A
The Clubhouse Restaurant
333 Bristol Street
Costa Mesa Ca. 92626
714-708-2582
Oh course I started with a Guiness on tap which was by all means GOOD. Looking around you could tell there were some power players, soccers moms, and just ordinary joes. It was a cool crowd buzzing with conversation (no, not me buzzing, the crowd..)
I had The Clubhouse Garbage Salad (see, I told you these were down to earth people), it had grilled chicken, egg, cheese, tomato, green onion, bacon + more......Good, and not too filling. My wife had the roasted jalapeno jack burger. She was in heaven...
The food was great, prices not bad, and the service was class "A". End result, A Winner!
Pull up your Benz to the valet parking and check out The Clubhouse Restaurant the next time you're at South Coast Plaza looking for that new Rolex.
Prices - B
Service - A
Food - A
The Clubhouse Restaurant
333 Bristol Street
Costa Mesa Ca. 92626
714-708-2582
The Counter / Irvine
Well ladies and gents, "The Counter" in Irvine is a mecca for you hamburger buffs out there. Situated off of Sand Canyon Road & Irvine Blvd, The Counter is tucked away away close to the L.A. Fitness. A little upscale, but hey it is Irvine......right?
The concept is simple, you're given a clipboard and a check list to design your own gourmet creation. The Counter boasts 312,120 different combos available. It's somewhat like ordering sushi, but easier.
You choose the bun (or none at all and have it served on a bed of greens), the meat, the portion (up to a pound burger) and all the toppings. Then kick back and sample one of their many beers availble and wait for your creation to be delivered to your table.
Now the fun part, getting it in your mouth.....open wide 'cause it comes several inches high. Food quality is great, and lots of it. Try the sweet potato fries....yummy...(did i just say that...)
Prices aren't too killer for the selection avaiable, the place is real clean with an industrial like look to it.
They have several locations, so check one out.....you be glad you did!
Prices - B
Food - A
Service - A
The Counter
Woodbury Town Center
6416 Irvine Boulevard
Irvine, Ca 92620
949-336-7272
http://www.thecounterburger.com/
The concept is simple, you're given a clipboard and a check list to design your own gourmet creation. The Counter boasts 312,120 different combos available. It's somewhat like ordering sushi, but easier.
You choose the bun (or none at all and have it served on a bed of greens), the meat, the portion (up to a pound burger) and all the toppings. Then kick back and sample one of their many beers availble and wait for your creation to be delivered to your table.
Now the fun part, getting it in your mouth.....open wide 'cause it comes several inches high. Food quality is great, and lots of it. Try the sweet potato fries....yummy...(did i just say that...)
Prices aren't too killer for the selection avaiable, the place is real clean with an industrial like look to it.
They have several locations, so check one out.....you be glad you did!
Prices - B
Food - A
Service - A
The Counter
Woodbury Town Center
6416 Irvine Boulevard
Irvine, Ca 92620
949-336-7272
http://www.thecounterburger.com/
Saturday, February 16, 2008
The Auld Irisher Pub & Restaurant / Orange
"Top of the morning to ya" or afternoon as it was when we visited "The Auld Irisher, Irish Pub & Restaurant" in Orange.
Having been open for only a few weeks this pub restaurant is sure to be a hit in the sea of everyday restaurants. We were greeted by the barmaid and we chose a patio seat. The pub is quite a sight, having much of the decor brought over from Ireland. It no doubt took many leprechans to get the stuff over......I think I saw one as I finished my thrd Guiness (leprechan that is....)
I had the "Ploughman's Platter" which consisted of cheese meats. Deemed an appetizer on the menu, I made it my lunch along with several fresh Guiness ales! Not cheap at $12.95, but was tasty to try the selections. The "Coleman's" mustard is HOT (can you say horseradish...) yet awesome. My better half had the "Roasted Turkey Sandwich" which looked delicious, and must have been as she ate it all. The only drawback, was in trying to be authentic they sprinkle it with curry powder, which some may or may not like. Just ask if you don't want it added.
They say it gets pretty happening on weekend nights with "live" bands....I gotta check that out. While it gets crowded, the barmaid assured me there's always somewhere to hid away in quiet ( or somewhat quiet, if you will)
A must to check out for lunch, dinner or drinks and fun!
Service - A
Food - A
Prices - B
The Auld Irisher Irish Pub & Restaurant
1547 W. Katella
Orange, CA
714-633-3192
www.auldirisher.com
Having been open for only a few weeks this pub restaurant is sure to be a hit in the sea of everyday restaurants. We were greeted by the barmaid and we chose a patio seat. The pub is quite a sight, having much of the decor brought over from Ireland. It no doubt took many leprechans to get the stuff over......I think I saw one as I finished my thrd Guiness (leprechan that is....)
I had the "Ploughman's Platter" which consisted of cheese meats. Deemed an appetizer on the menu, I made it my lunch along with several fresh Guiness ales! Not cheap at $12.95, but was tasty to try the selections. The "Coleman's" mustard is HOT (can you say horseradish...) yet awesome. My better half had the "Roasted Turkey Sandwich" which looked delicious, and must have been as she ate it all. The only drawback, was in trying to be authentic they sprinkle it with curry powder, which some may or may not like. Just ask if you don't want it added.
They say it gets pretty happening on weekend nights with "live" bands....I gotta check that out. While it gets crowded, the barmaid assured me there's always somewhere to hid away in quiet ( or somewhat quiet, if you will)
A must to check out for lunch, dinner or drinks and fun!
Service - A
Food - A
Prices - B
The Auld Irisher Irish Pub & Restaurant
1547 W. Katella
Orange, CA
714-633-3192
www.auldirisher.com
Domo Sushi / Anaheim Hills
"Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto" (Styx '75)
Stashed in a little strip mall (No, I didn't say strip club..) hidden away in Anaheim Hills is the best little sushi joint I've been to in years.
Domo Sushi is next to a denist's office and tropical fish store....off Santa Ana Canyon & Weir Canyon. Behind Burger King, geez if you can't find it by now, put in in your GPS.....
Domo is small, yet very clean and has two of the best sushi chefs around. We went for lunch, it wasn't too crowded, we were seated and our order taken in minutes. The "Poki Bowl" is awesome, and always a favorite as I saw many people order it.. Yeah, I've had these at different places but it's especially good here at Domo.
They offer a $6.95 lunch special that includes soup, salad, chicken teriyaki, potstickers, rice AND your choice of a sushi roll. That is GREAT! I think it's only M-F but you can check to make sure....
Their "Oh My God" roll is my buddys favorite. It's a meal in itself. Of course they have a wide variety of Japanese beers that are ice cold mind-you.
They offer a wide selection of scumptious rolls that include an "Anaheim Hills" roll (what's that, a roll that acts like it's from Newport Beach??)
Have a few beers, relax, enjoy the fresh sushi and you might just forget you're between a fish store and a denist.
Try it, You'll like it! DOMO Rocks!
Service - A
Food - A
Prices - A
Domo Sushi
8285 E. Santa Ana Canyon Rd, Suite #120
Anaheim Hills, CA 92808
714-974-7719
Stashed in a little strip mall (No, I didn't say strip club..) hidden away in Anaheim Hills is the best little sushi joint I've been to in years.
Domo Sushi is next to a denist's office and tropical fish store....off Santa Ana Canyon & Weir Canyon. Behind Burger King, geez if you can't find it by now, put in in your GPS.....
Domo is small, yet very clean and has two of the best sushi chefs around. We went for lunch, it wasn't too crowded, we were seated and our order taken in minutes. The "Poki Bowl" is awesome, and always a favorite as I saw many people order it.. Yeah, I've had these at different places but it's especially good here at Domo.
They offer a $6.95 lunch special that includes soup, salad, chicken teriyaki, potstickers, rice AND your choice of a sushi roll. That is GREAT! I think it's only M-F but you can check to make sure....
Their "Oh My God" roll is my buddys favorite. It's a meal in itself. Of course they have a wide variety of Japanese beers that are ice cold mind-you.
They offer a wide selection of scumptious rolls that include an "Anaheim Hills" roll (what's that, a roll that acts like it's from Newport Beach??)
Have a few beers, relax, enjoy the fresh sushi and you might just forget you're between a fish store and a denist.
Try it, You'll like it! DOMO Rocks!
Service - A
Food - A
Prices - A
Domo Sushi
8285 E. Santa Ana Canyon Rd, Suite #120
Anaheim Hills, CA 92808
714-974-7719
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Texas Loosey's / La Palma
Don't let the address fool you, this place is about 10 feet from Buena Park conveniently located off the 91 freeway at the Valley View exit.
Yee-haa little doggies.....(Ok, a bit corny to start off...Just had to get ya in the mood.....)
We were lucky enough to be invited to a "pre" grand opening of the new Texas Loosey's Chili Parlor & Saloon this weekend. It was kind of a "test" night if you will, to work out any kinks before opening to the public. From what we experienced there were no kinks to work out and the food was awesome!
From what I heard, the building was gutted so everything is new, fresh and clean, from the 26 tv's inside (yes, I said 26 fella) to the stained glass light fixtures.
After being seated by our lovely hostess (thanks Shannon, looking good...) we settled in for some good grub.
The first thing I have to say is this place has a wide, wide variety of items on the menu, from burritos to steaks to pasta (you'd be hard up not to find something that everyone can enjoy).
We started off with the ceviche. It was AWESOME! That, along with my ice cold beer and I was in heaven. Not too many places offers ceviche, and they gave you a big portion at a modest price (I love this place...)
My better half had the BBQ Tri-Tip sandwich which said was very tasty. I, on the other hand had the Top Sirloin. Good meat, Me like! (I think I was a caveman in another life...) This came with a dinner salad and loaded baked potato.....and several more ice cold brews (did I mention they were cold???) Why I say this is because there's nothing worse that a nice steak with not-so-cold beers. Whatever they did here, they did it right 'cause the brews are mighty icey (is that a word?)
It was a casual relaxed atmosphere and the bar looked inviting with it's mega tv's. They even have a tv in the bathroom for pete's sake (be careful though, it takes a while for that spot on your pants to dry when you're not paying attention.........)
Can't wait to go back and sample the burritos and other cornucopia of foods they offer.
Also, got a sneak preview of the uniforms the waitresses will be wearing....Yikes, it's like Hooter's on steroids! Check it out, I know you'll have a great time!
Service "A"
Food "A"
Prices "A"
Texas Loosey's Chili Parlor & Saloon
40 Center Point Dr
(corner of Valley View/Orangethorpe
La Palma, CA
714-739-2500
www.texaslooseys.com
Yee-haa little doggies.....(Ok, a bit corny to start off...Just had to get ya in the mood.....)
We were lucky enough to be invited to a "pre" grand opening of the new Texas Loosey's Chili Parlor & Saloon this weekend. It was kind of a "test" night if you will, to work out any kinks before opening to the public. From what we experienced there were no kinks to work out and the food was awesome!
From what I heard, the building was gutted so everything is new, fresh and clean, from the 26 tv's inside (yes, I said 26 fella) to the stained glass light fixtures.
After being seated by our lovely hostess (thanks Shannon, looking good...) we settled in for some good grub.
The first thing I have to say is this place has a wide, wide variety of items on the menu, from burritos to steaks to pasta (you'd be hard up not to find something that everyone can enjoy).
We started off with the ceviche. It was AWESOME! That, along with my ice cold beer and I was in heaven. Not too many places offers ceviche, and they gave you a big portion at a modest price (I love this place...)
My better half had the BBQ Tri-Tip sandwich which said was very tasty. I, on the other hand had the Top Sirloin. Good meat, Me like! (I think I was a caveman in another life...) This came with a dinner salad and loaded baked potato.....and several more ice cold brews (did I mention they were cold???) Why I say this is because there's nothing worse that a nice steak with not-so-cold beers. Whatever they did here, they did it right 'cause the brews are mighty icey (is that a word?)
It was a casual relaxed atmosphere and the bar looked inviting with it's mega tv's. They even have a tv in the bathroom for pete's sake (be careful though, it takes a while for that spot on your pants to dry when you're not paying attention.........)
Can't wait to go back and sample the burritos and other cornucopia of foods they offer.
Also, got a sneak preview of the uniforms the waitresses will be wearing....Yikes, it's like Hooter's on steroids! Check it out, I know you'll have a great time!
Service "A"
Food "A"
Prices "A"
Texas Loosey's Chili Parlor & Saloon
40 Center Point Dr
(corner of Valley View/Orangethorpe
La Palma, CA
714-739-2500
www.texaslooseys.com
Bubba Gump / Anaheim/Disney GardenWalk
Run Forrest.......to Anaheim's GardenWalk..........
My better half wanted to check out the new Bubba Gump restaurant in the Anaheim Disney GardenWalk. Me, never to turn down a meal jumped at the chance.
We checked out their website before going and everything looked good, but something was misssing...the prices...Hmmm, I'll tell you why a little later....
Bubba Gump's in Anaheim is very new but they have locations across the country, even in Cancun. The building is very cool even with Forrest's park bench outside. You're greeted by an employee with ping-pong paddles ushering you inside. Here by the "Stop Forrest" sign is where you wait to be seated. The inside is filled with Forrest Gump memorabila and sayings.
Our waitress was prompt, attentive and filled us in on all the specials and treats about the place (thanks Leslie...), even asking us trivia about the movie. This was very nice, but if you were in the middle of a meeting or getting serious with a gal, it wouldn't be that cool. I guess you could say "Scram Forrest, Scram"......I thought we were special but heard the waitress at the other table giving the same spiel......oh well, I felt special for a second....
They had a pretty good selection on the menu, including alot of specialty theme drinks, but the shrimp was the highlight of most of the dishes. We ordered "Bubba's Far Out dip", an artichoke dip with tortilla chips to start off with. My better half thought it was the best, I thought it was ok........After alot of questions reference the menu to the waitress, I settled on something I hadn't even asked about, the "Fish-wish", a char-broiled fish sandwich if you will. It was good, came with cole slaw and worth the $10 price tag. My better half ordered the Chipotle Shrimp. The minute it arrived I knew I should have ordered it. It smelled great and tasted even better. Creamy sauce and shrimp over rice with a bit of a kick. She didn't go for the trade when I offered her the fish-wich for it.....my bad.
Although the Chipolte Shrimp was very good, the price of $17 would even have Lt Dan thinking twice.
All in all it was a fun place, I went in a little grumpy, and came out happy and full. Weird how a good meal does that for you.........
If you have out of town guests or want to spoil yourself with some great seafood, check it out!
Service A+
Prices C
Food A
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
321 W. Katella, Suite 101
Anaheim, CA
714-635-GUMP
www.bubbagump.com
My better half wanted to check out the new Bubba Gump restaurant in the Anaheim Disney GardenWalk. Me, never to turn down a meal jumped at the chance.
We checked out their website before going and everything looked good, but something was misssing...the prices...Hmmm, I'll tell you why a little later....
Bubba Gump's in Anaheim is very new but they have locations across the country, even in Cancun. The building is very cool even with Forrest's park bench outside. You're greeted by an employee with ping-pong paddles ushering you inside. Here by the "Stop Forrest" sign is where you wait to be seated. The inside is filled with Forrest Gump memorabila and sayings.
Our waitress was prompt, attentive and filled us in on all the specials and treats about the place (thanks Leslie...), even asking us trivia about the movie. This was very nice, but if you were in the middle of a meeting or getting serious with a gal, it wouldn't be that cool. I guess you could say "Scram Forrest, Scram"......I thought we were special but heard the waitress at the other table giving the same spiel......oh well, I felt special for a second....
They had a pretty good selection on the menu, including alot of specialty theme drinks, but the shrimp was the highlight of most of the dishes. We ordered "Bubba's Far Out dip", an artichoke dip with tortilla chips to start off with. My better half thought it was the best, I thought it was ok........After alot of questions reference the menu to the waitress, I settled on something I hadn't even asked about, the "Fish-wish", a char-broiled fish sandwich if you will. It was good, came with cole slaw and worth the $10 price tag. My better half ordered the Chipotle Shrimp. The minute it arrived I knew I should have ordered it. It smelled great and tasted even better. Creamy sauce and shrimp over rice with a bit of a kick. She didn't go for the trade when I offered her the fish-wich for it.....my bad.
Although the Chipolte Shrimp was very good, the price of $17 would even have Lt Dan thinking twice.
All in all it was a fun place, I went in a little grumpy, and came out happy and full. Weird how a good meal does that for you.........
If you have out of town guests or want to spoil yourself with some great seafood, check it out!
Service A+
Prices C
Food A
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
321 W. Katella, Suite 101
Anaheim, CA
714-635-GUMP
www.bubbagump.com
Friday, February 1, 2008
Amazon Brazilian BBQ / Fullerton
Here's a hidden jewel in the Fullerton / Anaheim area.
Amazon features a Churrascaria style Brazilian BBQ buffet. if your a meat lover then this is you mecca!
The outside of the restaurant is a little deceiving looking a little drab. As you enter you're greated by a Brazilian theme complete with waterfall and South American decor.
You're seated then free to roam the buffet which features such South American treats like fried bananas, ox-tail and couscus. The sald bar portion features many salads as well as tofu, sushi rolls, and asparagus just to mention a few items. You could have a feast on just the buffet alone....BUT don't fill up too much or you won't be be able to eat the varieties of meats that are brought by your table every few minutes. Lunch meats include, chicken, top sirloin, garlic steak, turkey wrapped bacon + more......Did I say this place was great or what?? I felt like a caveman feasting straight off the fire.
You can opt for lunch without the meat option or for a few dollars more, go for it all. I recommend the meats also.
Although I haven't been there at night, I heard dinner meats feature exotic meats such as alligator and quail.
The price isn't cheap at $15.95 for lunch and $25.95 for dinner, but if you like meats this place is well worth the cost of admission!
Highly recommended for the "caveman" in all of us!
An added bonus is the service, it's A+, you can't get your drink down below a half before it's refilled again and again!
Service A+
Food A+
Decor A
Amazon Brazilian BBQ Buffet
1445 S. Lemon St, Fullerton
714-447-1200
www.amazonbbq.com
Amazon features a Churrascaria style Brazilian BBQ buffet. if your a meat lover then this is you mecca!
The outside of the restaurant is a little deceiving looking a little drab. As you enter you're greated by a Brazilian theme complete with waterfall and South American decor.
You're seated then free to roam the buffet which features such South American treats like fried bananas, ox-tail and couscus. The sald bar portion features many salads as well as tofu, sushi rolls, and asparagus just to mention a few items. You could have a feast on just the buffet alone....BUT don't fill up too much or you won't be be able to eat the varieties of meats that are brought by your table every few minutes. Lunch meats include, chicken, top sirloin, garlic steak, turkey wrapped bacon + more......Did I say this place was great or what?? I felt like a caveman feasting straight off the fire.
You can opt for lunch without the meat option or for a few dollars more, go for it all. I recommend the meats also.
Although I haven't been there at night, I heard dinner meats feature exotic meats such as alligator and quail.
The price isn't cheap at $15.95 for lunch and $25.95 for dinner, but if you like meats this place is well worth the cost of admission!
Highly recommended for the "caveman" in all of us!
An added bonus is the service, it's A+, you can't get your drink down below a half before it's refilled again and again!
Service A+
Food A+
Decor A
Amazon Brazilian BBQ Buffet
1445 S. Lemon St, Fullerton
714-447-1200
www.amazonbbq.com
Sunday, January 27, 2008
TAPS Fish House & Brewery / Brea
Hit Taps Fish House & Brewery a few weeks ago for a nice sit down lunch. We planned on going around the noon hour on Friday, but our plans got kicked back a few and we ended up getting there around 1:30pm. We pretty much had the place to ourselves (which was nice, I am kinda "anti-social" you know) there were a couple "late lunches" going on but they were far enough away to give us ample space.
Upon being greeted by the hostess I announced it was our first time ("virgin" TAP go'ers if you will) she politely nodded and seated us in a roomy booth. The waitress was prompt and attentive and I started out with one of their micro-brews (hey, it was 1:30pm ok...) after I few more samples we settled down and ordered the fish & chips and BLATT (bacon,lettuce.avocado,turkey & tomato...whew, I said it...) sandwich. The fish & chips were awesome with a unique batter which made it, well, unique! The BLATT sandwich was fresh, good tastin' and on toasted ciabatta bread (I said the bread was toasted, not me, even though I had a few more micro-brews...) We had side salads which were ala carte.
The atmosphere is charming with the brewery look and classy decor is quite impressive. Almost forgot, the oyster bar looks good although I saved it for next time.
The waitress brought us a complimentary dessert (creme brulee) that was quite tasty. That, along with the lunch and service made this a memorable "first time".
I here the place gets rockin' at nice with live music and their "cigar friendly" patio. Valet parking is also the norm on weekends. It's not cheap but well worth the price (the food not the valet dummy...)!
TAPs gets a big "A" from us and we'll definitely be back!
TAPS Fish House & Brewery
101 E. Imperial Hwy
Brea, CA 92821
714-257-0101
http://www.tapsfishhose.com/
Upon being greeted by the hostess I announced it was our first time ("virgin" TAP go'ers if you will) she politely nodded and seated us in a roomy booth. The waitress was prompt and attentive and I started out with one of their micro-brews (hey, it was 1:30pm ok...) after I few more samples we settled down and ordered the fish & chips and BLATT (bacon,lettuce.avocado,turkey & tomato...whew, I said it...) sandwich. The fish & chips were awesome with a unique batter which made it, well, unique! The BLATT sandwich was fresh, good tastin' and on toasted ciabatta bread (I said the bread was toasted, not me, even though I had a few more micro-brews...) We had side salads which were ala carte.
The atmosphere is charming with the brewery look and classy decor is quite impressive. Almost forgot, the oyster bar looks good although I saved it for next time.
The waitress brought us a complimentary dessert (creme brulee) that was quite tasty. That, along with the lunch and service made this a memorable "first time".
I here the place gets rockin' at nice with live music and their "cigar friendly" patio. Valet parking is also the norm on weekends. It's not cheap but well worth the price (the food not the valet dummy...)!
TAPs gets a big "A" from us and we'll definitely be back!
TAPS Fish House & Brewery
101 E. Imperial Hwy
Brea, CA 92821
714-257-0101
http://www.tapsfishhose.com/
Friday, January 11, 2008
Tony's Little Italy Pizza / Placentia
Geez...what do I say. this is an Orange County classic in my book. Tony's been around since 1978 (a classic year for the chevy camaro if I may add..) Yikes, that's makes 30 years in 2008! He's gotta be doing something right.....
Check out any OC review and it'll probably have Tony's Pizza in it. His stuffed pizza is "the best", hey "forget about it"....( guess you had to be there..) Anyway the stuffed pizza is loaded with authentic ingredients (not processed stuff like at certain franchises....get what I'm talking about) Fresh cheese, homemade sauce......THE BEST.....hands down.
I finally, after many years of going there, ordered something besides the pizza. The "Spaghetti a La Caruso" is to die for...if you like liver and mushrooms (yeah, it's good for you, just like your mom said..) and fine sauce you're in...
I most always get take-out but if you get a chance, eat-in at Tony's, he treats you like you're at his house, eating at his table. You won't be disappointed.
I feel like I'm going back in time from my high school days as Tony's hair color hasn't changed since then....hmmmmm.....All in all, this guy kicks *&^* in his italian cooking. An OC favorite!
Check out any OC review and it'll probably have Tony's Pizza in it. His stuffed pizza is "the best", hey "forget about it"....( guess you had to be there..) Anyway the stuffed pizza is loaded with authentic ingredients (not processed stuff like at certain franchises....get what I'm talking about) Fresh cheese, homemade sauce......THE BEST.....hands down.
I finally, after many years of going there, ordered something besides the pizza. The "Spaghetti a La Caruso" is to die for...if you like liver and mushrooms (yeah, it's good for you, just like your mom said..) and fine sauce you're in...
I most always get take-out but if you get a chance, eat-in at Tony's, he treats you like you're at his house, eating at his table. You won't be disappointed.
I feel like I'm going back in time from my high school days as Tony's hair color hasn't changed since then....hmmmmm.....All in all, this guy kicks *&^* in his italian cooking. An OC favorite!
Service - A+ (Tony and family treat you as part of "the" family)
Prices - A (A large pizza with homemade ingredients for under $20, Rocks!)
Food - A+ ( "Forget-about-it")
Tony's Little Italy Pizza, 1808 Unit B. N. Placentia Ave, Placentia 714-528-2159
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Esther's Taco House / Yorba Linda
Here's a hide-away you shouldn't miss. With two locations we decided to try the Yorba Linda location. Tucked away off La Palma Ave in the Ice Palace center, it's easy to miss if you blink.
Truthfully we found out about it during a visit to another diner.
Pulling up in the parking lot the windows are pretty tinted and you really don't know what awaits you inside. Once inside we were cheerfully greeted and seated in a cozy booth with a view of the bar area.
The waitress, was attentive and prompt with our drinks, chips & salsa and order. I had the a wet ground beef burrito with green chile sauce, my date (ok, my wife...) had the breakfast burrito. The portions were huge, and I had to struggle to eat it all (I know tomorrow I'll have to struggle getting my pants on though...) The salsa was fantastic (two styles, one with a little better "kick" then the other........The food was GREAT!
As we ate we saw locals drifting in taliking among themselves, obviously its a locals favorite.
Looking at the beer flowing (at 9:30am...) couldn't help but make me jealous as I thought of all the work I had to get done around the house. But we will return to test the "Happy Hour" waters if you will.................
Whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner check it out. I think you'll love it!
Service - A+ (couldn'ta ask for better)
Prices - B (my wet burrito was $7.00 & the breakfast burrito was $4.75)
Food - A+ ( can you say "tasty")
Esther's Taco House
23741 E. La Palma Ave, Yorba Linda
714-692-7777
Truthfully we found out about it during a visit to another diner.
Pulling up in the parking lot the windows are pretty tinted and you really don't know what awaits you inside. Once inside we were cheerfully greeted and seated in a cozy booth with a view of the bar area.
The waitress, was attentive and prompt with our drinks, chips & salsa and order. I had the a wet ground beef burrito with green chile sauce, my date (ok, my wife...) had the breakfast burrito. The portions were huge, and I had to struggle to eat it all (I know tomorrow I'll have to struggle getting my pants on though...) The salsa was fantastic (two styles, one with a little better "kick" then the other........The food was GREAT!
As we ate we saw locals drifting in taliking among themselves, obviously its a locals favorite.
Looking at the beer flowing (at 9:30am...) couldn't help but make me jealous as I thought of all the work I had to get done around the house. But we will return to test the "Happy Hour" waters if you will.................
Whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner check it out. I think you'll love it!
Service - A+ (couldn'ta ask for better)
Prices - B (my wet burrito was $7.00 & the breakfast burrito was $4.75)
Food - A+ ( can you say "tasty")
Esther's Taco House
23741 E. La Palma Ave, Yorba Linda
714-692-7777
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