Daily Eats: Tery's Tasty Quickie Classy Turkey on Corn Tortillas
It will take you about 5-7 minutes to prepare.
Here it is fast and easy:Use
Mission Foods soft corn tortillasThin sliced turkey breast
Kraft Shredded Mozzarella CheeseLayer the turkey first on the corn tortilla and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
Put into the microwave for 1 minute or until the cheese is melted to your satisfaction.
Add chopped green leaf lettuce to the top. Garnish with thinly sliced onion and green peppers.
Mix a teaspoon of
Hellmann's Mayonnaise lite with half teaspoon of sweet relish. Add that dollop to the top.
Bravo! You have
Tery's Tasty Quickie Classy Turkey on Corn Tortillas complements of Daily Eats.
I was off to Hendersen, NV after a great weekend in Las Vegas, to visit Al and Sharon Fried. Sharon had a list of places to have lunch and we agreed the Elephant Bar was worth a try. Elephant Bar is nestled in on Village Walk Drive, a lovely place for shopping and browsing.
We ordered cocktails. I had a glass of Kendell Jackson Chardonnay while Sharon and Al had Mai Thais. Much to their disappointment the Mai Thais were made with Grenadine which made them too sweet.
Nevertheless we had great lunch. Al had the Santa Barbara Burger, Sharon the Braised Lamb Shanks, and I enjoyed macadamia nut with Chicken and Shrimp on lima bean and veggie bed.
The icing was the dessert, which was a towering delight we all enjoyed sharing.
Friends, Birthdays, Weddings, Casinos, Food
California Pizza Kitchen in Las Vegas
At the Fashion Show MallI was up and adam Saturday morning, why should I linger in bed in Las Vegas? By 9:30 am I was riding the
LV Monorail from the Stratosphere to the Four Seasons where Bill and Joseph stayed. We couldn't at more opposite ends of the strip. I enjoyed soaking up the spectacular view of Las Vegas from the Monorail.
Arriving at the beautiful quiet Four Seasons at 10:30 am. Bill, Joseph and I discussed the events of the night before. Hopped in a cab and skirted around town, eyeing Steve Wynn's beautiful
Wynn Resort Hotel. Rumor has it Steve Wynn built the Wynn Resort Hotel to honor his wife. She must be an amazing lady for him to spend to billions on her. Steve also says he is proud to put his name on his hotel, and proud he should be the Wynn is a truly magnificent piece of architecture. I'll be back to take for an inside look when it opens.
The cab dropped us off at the Fashion Show Mall. It was time for lunch. After a moment's hesitation we all agreed upon California Pizza Kitchen or fondly known as CPK.
Maria was our dining host and we indulged in soups, pizza salads, and pizza. My tricolor salad was overwhelming in size and great in taste. The pea soup was great tasting but not hot enough. After lunch Bill and Joseph and I parted ways. I had a mission and that was to buy Bill's Birthday gift.
The Fashion Show Mall is awesome. Every hour there is a real fashion show that stirs up excitement and enthusiasm. I spent the majority of the day there and was off again for salon services in the Stratosphere. I concluded there are two types of people who come to Las Vegas the gamblers, and spa/shop folks like myself.
Four Seasons Birthday Bash
We all arrived at the Four Seasons at 8pm sharp to begin a festive celebration. When the door of Bill's suite opened blue and white balloons carefully arranged awed me. They created a special atmosphere.
Appetizing Hors d'oeuvres included 3 types of Tuna, various cheeses, fruit, shrimp and sushi. Champagne flowed to the tune of Dom Perignon and we toasted to birthday wishes to Bill.
The birthday cake was a masterpiece to the eyes with caramelized icing, chocolate accents, and tickled the stomach with anticipation. As anticipate this decadent pastry was wickedly good! Flavored fresh strawberry icing laced the top interior layer of the cake while thick vanilla cream mortared the remaining two layers. The cake itself was rich tasting French vanilla. My tongue moaned with surprise and joy! I do love cake!
In the wonderful and elegant style of Bill a limousine to tour the strip. Our first stop was the Graceland Chapel where friends remarried. The Graceland Chapel hosted many celebrity marriages including Jon Bon Jovi. It was a fun quickie marriage.
Bill whisked us off to the casinos with first stop Paris, Paris where I won $22 and onto the Palms. At the Palms we tied to get into the Ghost Bar but the line went on and on. Do note that people attending the Palms are roughly in their early twenties.
Early Morning Burgers at the Coffee Shop at Mandalay BayIt was now about 2:45 am and we were beat. Not so much by our losses but by over stimulation of the evening from delicious food, to entertaining wedding, to casino high jinx and just being with good friends!
Needing more nourishment we retired to my favorite place Mandalay Bay to the Coffee Shop. Over perfectly grilled hamburgers we quietly discussed our madcap adventures. It was a great ending to a spectacular celebration of Bill's birthday.
Happy Birthday, Bill it was a great celebrating with you and your friends!
Dinner in Las Vegas kicked off the celebration of Bill Firing's Fabulous Birthday. We celebrated at Fix, located in my favorite casino the Bellagio. The architecture of Fix is contemporary in style with stunning ceiling. Music was loud blaring old early nineties late eighties tunes. The smokers who walked by Fix would exhale second hand smoke that would upset the environment and steel from the sensuality of food scents. Regardless we still had an outstanding evening.
Food was beautifully presented. The winner of the evening was the Yellowtail Sashimi Jalapeño, Ponzu topped with thinly sliced jalapeño and one leaf of cilontro, splashed with citrus juice. Pumpkin filled ravioli in a sage butter sauce was very tasty. Scallops "Benedict", wrapped in Apple Wood Bacon, Crab Hollandaise was enjoyed. As was the very beautiful Shrimp "Louis" & Coctail Sauce. The only complaint from our party of 8 was the pork chop was under cooked.
RA Sushi is good
food in a pinch. I found the dining experience to be a bit disappointing, perhaps it was an off day or I was tired. I spent the majority of the day enjoying my walk around the Las Vegas strip and wanted a friendly sit down environment with great food.
It took the hostess a couple of minutes to realize I needed to be seated when I walk in. It wasn't busy at 5p.m. The music was extremely loud, but everything in Las Vegas is extremely loud. I had to ask for the complementary hand towel. I just felt because I was alone I wasn't worth the time and effort. Believe me I'm a great tipper when I have a great dining experience.
My order consisted of Seaweed Salad, which was on the citrus side but very refreshing. California Roll ok nothing too exciting. Eel a little burnt on the edges. The Philadelphia Roll, consisting of smoked salmon, cream cheese and cucumber hit the spot. The sushi chef was pleasant and amusing. I always compare sushi chefs to the one at
The Original IchiBan Japanese Sushi Bar & Restaurant in Tempe, Arizona. He's engaging, puts on a great show that's so much fun, and always buys the house a round of sake bombers. His sushi is out of this world. Imagine in Tempe?
RA an ok place to go in Las Vegas, and has other locations in Phoenix, Chicago, San Diego, Tucson, and Houston.
After the oxygen experience I really needed to eat. Top of The World restaurant provided great food and a spectacular view!
Pauline was my dining host for the 10 a.m. brunch. I sipped my Starbuck's coffee mesmerized by the
ostentatious scene surrounding me I felt at ease with the world. The Top of World dining room rotated 360 degrees every 45 minutes. As the world turned I spied a glorious site: Art masquerading as desserts!
Breakfast was served, a Frittata Italian omelet mixed with zucchini, onions, and potatoes topped with gorgonzala cheese, a very delicious combination. I went a little overboard with the sides mound of bacon strips and rosemary potatoes. It was too much food but very yummy.
The morning was quiet and enjoyable, of course it was still a workday. Service was pleasant even though I was a lone diner. My coffee cup was never dry and I was left to gaze out the window at the magnificent view of the mountains of Las Vegas. Top of The World lives up to their reputation in elevating your taste buds and your senses.
I just landed in Vegas and I'm off and running. It is Bill Firing's Fabulous Birthday Celebration and I'm happy to help celebrate!
So, by pure chance I was in staying at the Stratosphere in Las Vegas and happened upon the Oxygen Bar. I heard a lot of hype about Oxygen Bars over the past couple of years. I always wanted to try out the Oxygen Station at the Healing Center on 57th Street in NYC, but never had time. Since I arrived in Vegas early and my room wasn't ready I could take the time.
I grilled Anya, who works at the Oxygen Bar about the oxygen experience. Normal air consumption contains about 21% oxygen, and the oxygen in the Oxygen Bar offers 90% pure oxygen. She told me it could enhance energy and make me feel euphoric. Always a little skeptical when I'm told something like that, but I am open to new experiences.
Assisted by Anya, who started my oxygen experience off with a Power Shot, which is an all-natural herbal energy shooter with a great taste. Then she squirted a bit of eucalyptus oil into the palms of my hands and had me inhale deeply. That really opened my sinuses. I stretched out in a reclining chair, while an electric chair massager moved up and down my spine. Anya gave me a disposable nasal cannula and helped me put it on. I was plugged into the oxygen station for about 15 minutes. I felt calm almost a little light headed but my tiredness seemed to disappear, mind you I took the 8am flight to Vegas and was up the night before until 1am writing for Daily Eats.
After 15 minutes Anya fetched me. I sat at the main bar where she squired some peppermint into my hands and had me inhale again. There she gave a 5 minute back massage. I felt wonderful and throughout the day I felt great. You don't come to Vegas to sleep so this certainly is helpful. The air quality in the casinos is horrible, so having had 90% pure oxygen put into my lungs before hand was a welcome.
On my Vegas escapades I saw an O2 bar in the Fashion Center Mall where I encourage Bill and Joseph to give it a try. There Josh, a young twenty something year old, administered both the oxygen and the great massage. Wow, I could stay there all day. I asked Bill and Joseph how they felt after the oxygen experience and both confirmed they felted refreshed.
Will I try it again? I think so. Here are some articles if you are thinking about giving Oxygen a try. If you happen to stay at the Stratosphere do dropped by the Oxygen Bar, have Anya hook you up, and tell her Tery sent you.
Articles on Oxygen Bars:
Oxygen Bars: Is a Breath of Fresh Air Worth It? By Linda Bren, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA Consumer magazine, November-December 2002
Oxygen Bars Not a Breath of Fresh Air,
By Jennifer Thomas HealthScoutNews Reporter
Oxygen Bar, Copenhagen Airport
Well, Curry-in-a-Hurry certainly delivers on its name, when you dine in! I tried my favorite dish--palek paneer--on Tuesday, February 22nd at this no-fuss, no-nonsense eat-in or take-out restaurant on the corner of Lexington and 28th Street.
The counter-boys also convinced me to try two chicken kebobs. Well this little meal comes with a all-you-can-eat salad and all-you-can-muster chutney bar for fixin's! And it all comes in around $10.00 (including a Ginger Ale). Not bad!
However, yes folks, there is a "however." The palek paneer was not what it used to be. Yes folks, I used to rave about Curry-in-a-Hurry's palek paneer. But this was back in 1997 when I'd have it delivered for lunch. That time the palek paneer was delicious but the delivery was slow. Of course, they were delivering it completely across town and 28 blocks south of where they were--even in tortential downpours!
Nonetheless, I'd go back to Curry-in-a-Hurry just because it's authentic, it's real, it's New York and it still really was delicous!
From Crepes to Gates
The end of my New York trip comes full circle. Jane and I took the train into New York to meet up with Karen and Richard and see the Gates by Christo.
I left Jane, Karen and Rich at Billy's cupcake went to meet Jennifer Nash at LeGamin. We had a long discussion over hot chocolate and crepes. After crepes we split very yummy French pastries at La Bergamot. Jen was looking as beautiful and sexy as ever. She made a couple hour drive in from Philadelphia to see me.
I met up with Jane, Karen and Rich at Bud's for a taste of Billy's cupcakes before going off to see the Christo's Gates. Billy's cupcakes were just ok in my book. I didn't like the frosting at all it left a funny aftertaste. I've known Karen as long as I've known Jane we met in the New Haven Art community.
Off to the Gates. Oh what an impression presentation! I love the whole concept of the Gates. Christo spent years planning this wrapping of Central Park and raised more than $21 million for it. People from all walks and talks of life passed throught the gates. Each had a personal impression of the experience. I was even more impressed on this freezing Saturday afternoon the park was packed.
I had a great trip saw my fabulous friends, enjoyed some very delicious eats, and spectacular art. Farewell New York and I'll see you again soon.
Daily Eats New York to New Haven
7:30am breakfast with fabulous and handsome Terance Bogan. What a total delight, what a yummy treat to meet with Terance at the Hudson Hotel Cafeteria. Family style dining with lots of European attitude is the atmosphere at Cafeteria. The coffee was rich, my bagel and cream cheese served with tomato great. It was the exciting and engaging conversation with Terance that was the most enjoyable of all.
After breakfast I caught the 9:07am to New Haven to see my Grandmother, Grace Ricciardi and my close friend Jane.
I arrived in Laurel Gardens where my grandmother lives. She already arranged our lunch in the main dining room. My grandmother is looking great for age 91. We had an enjoyable lunch of salmon salad, mushroom soup and pepper and eggs. For dessert Grace had pound cake and I had the apple crisp. We had a delightful conversation about how much I travel and my grandmother's latest art pieces.
After I saw my grandmother I met Jane. I've known Jane for over 21 years. Jane is an accomplished artist and successful promoter of the Connecticut Folk Festival. I was staying the evening at Jane's wonderful tutor home. We dined at Istanbul, my favorite Turkish restaurant located in New Haven.
Salt New York
Daily Eats began its fabulous beginings when Courtney Pulitzer and I would dine out, meet up for cocktails, lunch or breakfast. We would get together to talk about the usual stuff at the best places to eat in New York.
While visiting New York we decided to have dinner at Salt on MacDougal Street. Salt--warm, friendly, family-style seating--opened its arms to greet us. We began with appetizers such as "dates wrapped in bacon glazed with sweet syrup." Courtney described it as "a great date whose bacon really packed a punch!" The spinach salad which was a little over saturated with dressing, but tasty. We also tried the eggplant beet tartar. For dinner we split Cavatappi with duck--rich tasting, but the presentation took away from the taste. As Courtney described what we saw in the bowl "it looked like something served on Reality TV. "
For dessert we opted for Rosemary and Creme Fraiche ice cream with homemade peanut brittle. The Rosemary was an amazingly delightful surprise. I wasn't impressed with the peanut brittle.
Courtney, always the delightful and beautiful dinner partner, talked about the old days of dining out, parties and the industry. We got onto the subject of blogging for food and I am thrilled Courtney agreed to blog for Daily Eats! We will share our fabulous dining experiences and love of food from different parts of the country.
Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktails with Friends
Good Morning Breakfast was in order at The Coffee Shop with Ellen Sragow. I love The Coffee Shop. You can always count you dining to be young future starlet or model. The food is great and kitsch interior is fun. It was great to meet Ellen there. I've known Ellen for over 18 years. She runs an impressive Gallery in New York,
Sragow Gallery She known for her stellar taste in art and predicting art movements. Ellen launched 1930-40's collections which made those artist legendary. I was introduced through Ellen the creme ala creme in art industry.
An afternoon in Time Square visiting the
Hershey's Store. When I was a kid my first introduction to chocolate was through Hershey's. Every year for Halloween I was devise my plan to score my favorite Hersey's chocolate Special Dark. My plan included trading other types of candy with my brothers Tony and Tom for Special Dark. I would hoard those Special Darks for as long as I could.
In the heart of Times Square is a tribute to Hershey's in the form of a The Hershey's Store. I walked in with a child like smile on my face and eyes wide looking for Special Dark. Steve, who gave me a quick tour for the interior, greeted me. I told Steve I blog for Daily Eats and wanted to take photos of the interior of Hersey's Store for tribute to my childhood introduction to chocolate. Steve said he had to ask he store manager. After a couple of minutes he came back with somewhat disappointing news that I couldn't take photos as a constellation he gave me a handful of Special Darks.
I met up for lunch with David Dunne in Times Square. We dined at
Cafe Un Deux Trois. I have fond memories of dining there on a regular basis when I first worked in Times in my first job in the interest back in 1994. David and I talked at length about blogging and exchanged tips on blogging information. Lunch for great and very interesting with David. After seeing David I met up briefly with Renee Edelman. It was great to see Renee, who will be visiting Phoenix in a couple of weeks.
Later that evening I was joined Courtney Pulitzer, Petra Kopt, and Vivian Valenty for a lovely evening with Mary Lou Quilin at the Westin in Times Square. It was a wonderful event in which Mary Lou spoke to over 200 people about the benefits of taking a break for intense work schedules and promoting her leading selling book, "Time Off For Good Behavior".
Great Eats and Dear Friends
After a full day of business meetings dropped by the New York Palace for coffee. It's a $5 cup of coffee that doesn't taste at all like a great cup of coffee. I was disappointed perhaps my disappointed was due to the fact Villard, my favorite place to hang out in Midtown, didn't open until 5pm.
6:30pm I invited friends to join me at for cocktails and perhaps dinner. Druid's, is a lovely Irish bar located on 10 Avenue and 50th Street. It makes the best home cooked dinners in Hell's Kitchen. It has a wonderful comfortable neighborhood atmosphere. I've known Michael the owner for 10 years now. I highly recommend the Rack of Lamb! Very Very Yummy!
It was a heartfelt evening of catching up with dear friends: Courtney Pulitzer, Mike Meyers, David Orbach, Vivian and Jeff Valenty, Quentin English, Steve Filler, Manos Magagiannis, Bonnie Halper, Dan Barry, Jeffrey Kutler, Shakir Farsakh, Larry Aronson, and Angelina Jao. I only wish I was here longer to spend more time with everyone.
New York My Kind of Town
After a long flight from Phoenix to New York I was back into the swing of the city. After being away for almost 6 months it was like riding a bike. I wanted to see all of my dear friends and looking to food, fun and culture.
Tuesday evening I arrived in NYC my hometown. I met Karen at
LeGamin Chelsea my favorite little French restaurant for crepes. Karen and I had a lot of catching up to do. We talked and ate and talked some more over delicious French crepes.
Later that evening I ventured uptown to meet my cousin, Lynn. It was a late evening in Times Square and met at Eurpora. I had a Swiss Hot Chocolate and piece of cake. And Lynn had a quick sandwich. It was great catching up with Lynn. She's an accomplished actress and singer.
I appreciate Bud, Lucy and Jane for putting up with me and putting me up.
Pei Wei is an upscale Asian diner created by PF Chang's. A hostess greets you in line, Jessica was there today, and while meandering through the line pursing the menu there is a beat to the dining room.
A lot of questions came to mind while waiting for my order to be taken. How do they meter the line so that there are enough tables and seats for guests? I nearly panicked thinking my food may be ready before we sat down. But Dennis, the manager assured me all would come together.
After 15 minutes of waiting in line we ordered and were escorted to our table 42 by Dennis. Ah 42 who would have thought our table would be so blessed with the ultimate answer to the ultimate question to the universe. Ala Douglas Adams, who was the ultimate foodie. Btw
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy opens April 29, 2005 I want to have the ultimate party in honor of Douglas Adams, my ultimate hero and author.
My father didn't care much for this type of food experience he prefers to be waited on, his complaints subsided when Dennis bought him a beer. Though my mother and myself really enjoyed the experience. The food was great! We sampled the Crispy Potstickers, Pei Wei Spring Rolls, Shrimp with Lobster Sauce Bowl, Honey Seared Chicken, and Hoisin Explosion.
Blog-go-Rama
It's the ultimate compliment when you blog a blogger and about that blogger's food interest. To be blogged, by the ultimate blogger of all,
Ms. Courtney Pulitzer, who co-conspired with Mark Jeffrey creating an intriguing eatable brew, Popcorn Chowder. I had to call Courtney when I received a copy of her newsletter "Courtney Pulitzer's Cyber Scene" and thank her for the impressive mention yours truly, Tery Spataro. While on the phone I could not resist asking her what her inspiration was to blog about a food blogger? Courtney disclosed her inspiration came from,
"a lunch of Meatballs and Spaghetti with Parmesan cheese, Italian bread, and for dessert I had Heart-Shaped Valentine's sugar cookies, 1/2 a brownie and 1/2 slice of cherry pie!" Now, that's what I call the ultimate power lunch!
Happy Hearts and Flowers, Courtney!
A matter of Silicon Alley Interest:
Join Courtney Pulitzer and all of us who helped build Silicon Alley for the
Silicon Alley Reunion and keep our history alive.
To All You Chocolate Lover's
Happy Valentine's Day from Daily Eats!
We know the true special meaning from a gift box of Valentine chocolates. This is ecstasy in a box! For Valentine's Day my gift to you is my research on organic chocolate. I love chocolate not just any type of chocolate has to be rich dark creamy tasting chocolate. I did research on organic dark chocolate. Whole Foods has six different brands of organic dark chocolate. To qualify for this research the dark chocolate cocoa content has to be a least 50%. An exception was made of Newman's Own Organic because I like what the brand stands for. This is how they stacked up against each other:
1.) Dagoba 59% cocoa
little too bitter and dense and chalky
rated: 7
2.) Green & Black 70% cocoa
lighter tasting, takes awhile for taste to mix
rated: 8
3.) Shaman Chocolates 60%cocoa
very sweet, didn't care for it
rated: 3
4.) Endangered Species, Supreme Dark Chocolate, The Chimpanzee Bar
72% cocoa
excellent, not too sweet, melts nicely in mouth
rated: 10
5.) Newman's Own Organic, Sweet Dark Chocolate
it's ok. My mom loved it. For me too sweet
rated: 7.5
6.) Trader's Joe's 70% cocoa
bittersweet, longer in your mouth it becomes sweeter,
$2.95 for a one pound bar.
rated: 5.5
This unscientific study was broken into two categories: cocoa content and taste. Rated on a scale of 1-10, 10 being the best dark rich creamy tasting chocolate. Discovered Endangered Species Supreme Dark Chocolate rated 10 against the other five brands.
We also found some of the brands we investigated were not only organic in their ingredients but are socially conscience businesses.
Shaman Chocolates profits go to support the Huichol Indians, a small tribe of 15,000 living in Mexico's Sierra Madre Mountains.
Endangered Species Chocolate Company donates 10% of their profits to protect endangered species. That's certainly a double sweet treat.
Newman's Own Organic, Paul Newman donates all of his royalty after taxes from the sale of this product for Educational and Charitable purposes.
Share your favorite organic dark chocolate treats.
I'm off to NYC for a couple days. I hope to bring you Daily Eats from my favorite Manhattan eateries.
Imagine the secrets of Bush Tucker cooking and a mixture of savory native Australian ingredients to tease you senses. Well,
Chef Benjamin Christie brings those wonderful culinary delights from world downunder to us. Celebrated TV chef of Dining Downunder, Chef Benjamin tantalizes our tastes with Australian native foods, recipes, ingredients, cookbooks, and gives us his reviews of Australian restaurants, menu development, and bush tucker cooking.
Chef Benjamin Christie posts the most remarkable
Australian recipes & Bush Tucker Recipes on his food blog. Available for purchase is
Chef Benjamin Christie's latest cookbook.
Photos curiosity of BenjaminChristie.com
Second Saturdays
Second Saturdays, started by Rachel and Bob Woodburn is a wonderful gathering of artistic spirited people. Last night despite the rain some 25 folks from Phoenix and the surrounding areas came out to Rachel and Bob's Foothills estate for evening filled with creative discourse. The charming hosts, Rachel and Bob are both accomplished photographers with a depth and breath of work that impressive works.
The invite I received the other day asked each guest to invite two friends and bring an appetizer. When I arrived in tow in with chocolate brownie bites, heart shaped cookies and yellow roses. I thought since I don't know too many people in Phoenix yet, two appetizers and flowers would make up for lack of friends.
The beauty of their home astounded me. High ceilings, marble floor, and open spaces with clever architectural nuances make a beautiful presentation.
In the room with the lovely spread of inviting appetizers brought by friends, the most interesting conversations were started. The conversations ranged from deep debates about art to idiosyncrasies of technology. There between the chicken wings and egg rolls donning an Apple Green Martini, I met the delightful
Roger and lovely
Jackie Palmenberg. The conversation with Roger turned to my love of technology and new sciences, and with Jackie we talked about the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, in which she leads the charge as executive director.
Later that evening Rachel took out her rather large photo portfolio and took us through a tour of her impressive photography. Large format photos of human life formed solid and subtle images, encouraging the viewers to discover their own stories from what they saw. I instantly loved her photos, for me they were cavernous entryways to mystery and sensuality. Rachel's body of work is mature daring and takes calculate risk with shape, light and shadow. A very impressive mix!
I had an enjoyable evening with Rachel and Bob and meeting their wonderful friends. I look forward to the next Second Saturdays!
Ouch, I have a belly ache ;-(
Well, I hope it goes away so I can write something great about food. I will be attending a wonderful late afternoon gathering at Rachel Woodburn's. Rachel started
Second Saturdays in which she invites friends to her lovely home in Scottsdale. Sounds wonderful and I'm hoping I feel better enough to attend.
Whoa! Is that Mark Jeffrey, author of The Pocket and The Pendent, eating New England Clam "Chowdah" with the lovely
Ms. Courtney Pulitzer? Mark's not just eating NECC alone. There's popcorn in that chowder. It seems some pesky yummy morsels of corn and butter where an unexpected addition compliments of Ms. Courtney.
Popcorn Chowder, an amazing new culinary delight invented by the creative minds and tastes of Courtney Pulitzer and Mark Jeffrey.
The Devine Ms. Courtney Pulitzer drove from Manhattan to New Hampshire for Mark Jeffrey's signing of his new book,
The Pocket and The Pendent at the Barnes and Noble. I admit I read
The Pocket and The Pendent in a week while devouring a whole bag of
Oreo Cookies, I couldn't put the book down nor the bag. This is a delightfully written serious page-turner, which brings you back to childhood wonder. The universe is an amazing place and I'm so glad authors like Mark Jeffrey are here to make it real for us all! I strongly suggest adding
The Pocket and The Pendent to your library and don't forget the bag of Oreos.
I miss those fun days when Courtney and I would visit various NYC restaurants. Next week will be my tribute to those days when I visit NYC and see Courtney and friends! Look out Manhattan!
I admit I am a fan of
Mimis Cafe located on Chandler Boulevard in Chandler right off the 101. I've been there several times and most recently this afternoon for a business lunch with Vivian Valenty. Their big muffins are the best! And today was the beginning of fresh strawberry lemonade. Now who could resist that, I certainly could not, it's delicious and I had two glasses!
Today was light lunch for me, no roll with my cheeseburger but Katie, our lovely and cheerful dining host, brought me plenty of mustard. I had a selection of three different brands, naturally I opted for
Grey Poupon to enhance the taste of my cheeseburger.
I went to Mimis Cafe website and discovered there are 90 stores though out the US. I would never have known because the Mimis's on Chandler Boulevard runs very much like a friendly neighborhood diner. Both the hostess who greeted us at the door and our dining host made our lunch pleasant experience.
Whole Foods has been my designer choice for shopping therapy these days in Phoenix. I've been to several different Whole Foods across the US: Columbus Circle/Time Warner building and Chelsea New York, Chicago, LA, SF and Tempe, AZ. Not all of the Whole Foods have the same traffic pattern. Both New York Whole Foods are a disaster when it comes to traffic patterns. Too confusing and for impatient New Yorkers, there have been a number of grocery carriage bang ups. I enjoyed Chicago's nice traffic pattern especially leading right to my favorite foods: cheese and chocolate.
Tempe has the best traffic patterns with the least amount of stress. I know love to relate and enjoy my grocery shopping, sniffing, taste, pinching take great focus. I would suggest moving the meat department so that meat is the last purchase and it stays cooler longer. Food needing refrigerating spoils quickly in hot climate especially if you are a long way from home.
Shopping in Tempe Whole Foods today, I had promised I would only buy my favorite brand of vitamins and leave. But that didn't happen. An hour or so later after browsing the organic produce and making many organic fruit selections I decided it was time to head over to the cheese bar for a look. I thought only a look, well three cheese purchases later and help from the very pleasant cheese master, Swan from Singapore, I managed to get out of Whole Foods by 2:30 pm and several dollars later.
Well worth the purchase! On the 45 minutes drive home I fantasized about grilled cheese sandwiches. No, I'm not talking about the average American grill cheese. I'm talking about grilling works of art and architecting masterpieces.
Fired up the frying pan and added a two tablespoons of virgin olive oil and went to work.
Sandwich number 1: a combination of chopped tomato, green peppers, onions and one clove of garlic, a dash of salt and pepper, sliced Amadeus cheese on
Mestemacher Sunflower seed bread.
Sandwich number 2: Grilled Emmental with a dab of sweet green relish on Mestemacher Sunflower seed bread.
Sandwich number 3: Slightly grilled Cyprus Grove goat cheese with thinly sliced cucumber on Mestemacher Sunflower seed bread.
The sandwich descriptions are in ordered in best satisfaction.
A couple of close friends of mine enjoy making sandwich art as much as I do. I remember discovering the secrets of Mestemacher bread when I was in Germany last from a dear friend. Upon returning to the US I went directly to Whole Foods bought my first loaf. After making several variations of sandwich I called Pam Riding who lived nearby to sample my delicious creations.
Incidentally, Sandwich was merely an accident while John Montagu was gambling. Named after John Mantagu, the Fourth Earl of Sandwich (1718-1792). Little did the Earl know his quick snack was never to be a fad, but became a standard eating habit for now centuries.
Noteworthy:
The perfect place for my fellow cheese lovers:
Cheese Lover's Paradise
Amadeus Cheese - yes, named after non-other
You have to love food bloggers, we're creative, witty and passionate. Gastronomie encompasses all of these fine traits. This blog takes you on wonderful culinary adventures from the beautiful city of San Francisco to the rest of the world, through bites of chocolate and sips of champagne. As the subtitle implies, you'll discover, Gastronomie is more than just culinary adventure, its a delicious trek across the food universe.
Food is Fuel
I was having a conversation with Perhi Colombatto the over day. Actually she called me from Hawaii the day it snowed there. Perhi and I have been friend since my grad school days at Pratt in NYC in 1986. She wanted to know what I was up to these days. That usually meant am I doing anything creative. Well, now I have a good story to tell her, "I blogging for food." Perhi took a deep sigh I could see her doing this before she began to lecture me, 'You know, Food is like fuel."
She's right we all need to survive. Like petroleum for cars human bodies need food. As she said that, I thought of the millions of men, women and children who don't have food, starving to death. We have such abundance and most of us have been very generous. I encourage you to look to
The World Hunger Organization to learn how to help to reduce hunger.
Super Bowl Sunday, a day of contest and day of great eating!
I can sure say Super Bowl Sundays are my favorite sports days. The game is great, commercials entertaining, and the food awesome. And today was a great day of victory for my favorite team,
New England Patriots. Go Team! Favorite commercial goes to Career Builder! The monkeys were great. Most boring goes to Budweiser. We had enough with the animals. Toyota had a modern take to present the Hybrid car, which was a close favorite.
The preseason cooking prep was fun. Joyce made the brownies, turkey stuffing for nachos, and prepared the vegetables. Tony made spicy chicken wings. I made black bean dip for nachos. We had a tray of fresh vegetables with onion dip. You cannot beat this spread along with the size of the TV for this Super Bowl Sunday.
Where's the Beef from?
It was a lovely shopping therapy day. After shopping we needed our daily lunch and we searched for it like trying to find a needle in a haystack. First we looked for the Asian Diner I spotted one night driving home but couldn't remember exactly where it was located. Then searched for the Mexican restaurant. Couldn't find that either. So we decided lunch at the Trilogy Gold Club at Power Ranch will work. We dubbed it Last Chance Resort Cafe.
It was a busy afternoon in the club with golfers coming in for a quick burger and beer and back out to the course for more rounds of golf. Darrin was our dining host, who hosted us once before. The food was good tried Chimichangas, Chicken Enchiladas, and Taco Salad. All well defined on a large plates. Lot of food but good food.
I have questions. So, where is the beef from? My curiosity tweaked one while driving past the
stinky bovines on Higley Road. I wanted to know if they were beef or diary cows. Darrin enlightened us. He lived here all of his life and knows this region is for diary cows. He also told us the Sysco supplied the meat for Trilogy.
My Florist and Phoenix First Fridays
My Florist
It was a very busy First Fridays for Phoenix. And every restaurant in the gallery goers' path knows it's all about preparation and timing to satisfy patrons. I was eager to have a stellar evening with my posse of food critics.
We arrived at My Florist around 7p.m. Contemporary style open space restaurant all the elements I love in dining atmosphere. Greeted by a line of people waiting for a table, usually a good sign! We were told the wait would about a half-hour and proceed to find sits at the bar. Four of us were served drinks I waited, and waited and made small talk with Jake, one of the dining hosts, about wine. He suggested I try the Glen Carlou Chardonnay. He seemed to sense my tastes for South Africa wine. Funny enough his very suggestion was entered into my Palm Pilot under wines. The busy and crazed bartender came over for my drink order. I decided to break tradition and get the Les Sauces Viognier. Nice and dry crisp fruity to taste. I believe the fruit is pear with a peppery after taste. It would make a nice spring wine. My Florist wine menu reaches many regions and is not too overwhelming.
My Florist hints of the favor of my old haunt Restaurant Florent, 69 Gansevoort Street, in NYC. Restaurant Florent is known for arty, wild and wacky patrons, great menu a place where great conversations are made.
My Florist is known for soups and sandwiches with flair but not what I expected for the price. The shrimp bisque was wonderful, though it could use some sherry to pump it up a little. Joanne noted her Pastrami sandwich with salad was great but weak on the pickle. I love crispy dill pickles not a limp excuse. Scott had turkey and brie on sour dough which he enjoyed. All sandwiches are served on Willo Bakery breads. The rest of the posse tried the crab cake salad special. Nice job on crab cakes but not able to stand completely alone could use a little dab of chunty.
We ordered more cocktails with dessert. Our dining host, Cody, told us that the bartender was really backed up so it will take awhile. As we waited for our beverages the pianist played a brilliant rendition of Dave Brubeck "Take Five". Brought me back to my college days in New Haven Connecticut when I would attend the Jazz festival. When beverages, arrived Joanne commented her Cosmo is great. I concur with her. Break from tradition we shared the fruit tart that was marvelous. Willo Bakery makes a wonderful desserts and breads.
My Florist is not sure if it wants to be an upscale diner or an elegant dining experience. This is not negative criticism; I am simply raising the bar and pushing the envelope. I give My Florist a B for effort and B+ for taste, I'll have to go back and try them again when they are not so busy. Phoenix has heightened its status in the culinary world and there is vast improvement from the first time I live in Phoenix over ten years ago.
Phoenix First Fridays - an Art Scene that is Trying
Where do I get off reviewing art? Well, I was an associate of the best gallery in the hay day of the East Village in NYC in 1980's, that being Sragow Gallery. Ellen Sragow made real artist famous representing Alphonse von Woerkom, Michelle Sharpe, Ida Applebroog and Yolanda Shashaty to name a few. We attended parties with people like Andy Warhol, Larry Rivers, Rudy Burckhardt, and Greg Masters. I am a classically trained artist studying contemporary and primitive art at Paier College of Art CT and Pratt NY. I had over 14 shows in the tri-state area of NY, MA and CT. I believe I know a little something about art industry and the making of great art. Long since traded in my brushes and paint for the power of bits and bytes and the privilege of blazing an entire industry and influencing the world.
So I had some expectations with the Phoenix Art Scene that weren't fulfilled. I saw some pieces I was thrilled with but not blown away by, some gallery spaces that were amazing worthy of recognition, and an art scene that was trying but wasn't there yet. To describe the execution is naïve, the sense of wonderment and exploration throttled back by lack experience and adventure. The Phoenix artist needs to get out of their element see the world. The art world explored every aspect of human orifice and sexuality, to be frank I'm bored by it all. No one can compete with Mapplethorpe, Kloster, Schiele, Kaplan or Lautrec. Sexual art is over with let's move-on, grow up and mature.
I found a couple of artists I liked.
Peri Miller handles watercolor with precision. Her dreamy landscapes can be seen at Red Door. The portrait work of John Avedisian at Icon Studio is worth noting for craftsmanship and daringness. Through his strong gusty works you can hear rich sound of the blues.
To understand a civilization is to see it through the eyes of its artists. The arts have long influenced culture, business and science. Art movements are born to open our eyes to new worlds through the power of the written and visuals props. Phoenix artists have to realize their power in their craft and the influence they have to help grow this wonderful city. My hope for these young artists is they will take a chance go to extreme, and leave their comfort zone. These are the ingredients of great art and memorable artists.
Invited to dinner by the lovely
Vivian Valenty, we chose 98 South Wine Bar and Kitchen as a place to relax and enjoy a friendly evening. 98, the year of Internet Enlightenment, no wonder I like the name of this new swanky restaurant and wine bar located in center of Chandler, AZ at 98 S. San Marcos Plaza. And I enjoyed the total dining experience right down to the live music performed by
Aebi/Coulson and Salzman. Their dreamy lounge sound is a perfect complement to the delicious cuisine. Ron Wojcicki, who should be congratulated for adding wonderful dining experience to the area, owns 98 South.
Vivian and I shared the Roasted Vegetables and Humus appetizer. The humus was perfect for dipping asparagus, onions, baby carrots, and Portobello mushrooms.
On their wine menu they offer tastes of wine, which allow you to sample and it is perfect for those of us who like a sip. I tried the 2001 Goats Do Roam South African Blush, lite almost non-existent taste. I'm use to thick, dark, chocolate South African wine. Letting it sit for a few minutes didn't change but I'm glad I tried it. Liz, our lovely and attentive dining host, suggested I try 2002 Rex Hill Willmentte Valley, Oregon, Pinot Noir. This wine is a treat, very deep red, full body and aroma of cherries and clove with a hint of barrel toast. Spot on! It blended nicely with Pork Tenderloin, bleu cheese potatoes and garlic spinach which I enjoyed eating every bit of. Pork Tenderloin was cooked so perfectly (medium rare), the juices added extended favors.
As I discovered they will cook to order. Vivian, on a salt-free diet, asked to have her Scallops with Forbidden Rice and Blood Orange Sauce as salt free as possible. While we ate she told me the story behind Forbidden Rice, which turns indigo when cooked. The legend says Forbidden Rice was reserved only for the court of the ancient Chinese emperors for its nutritional properties and as an aphrodisiac
#. High in nutritional and medicinal value,
Forbidden Rice is rich in iron and considered a blood tonifier.
My favorite part of dinner is the dessert, that little extra special something to cap off a wonderful evening. Karma, the very pleasant and handsome manager of 98 South, presented us with some very exquisite puddings. The Chocolate Cake, moist and rich surrounded by a river of dark chocolate syrup and topped with vanilla Gelato. Adrian's Chocolate Banana Fritters, hard exterior cookie engulfed lightly grilled banana topped with dark chocolate sauce with a side of vanilla gelato. I asked Liz which dessert wines would she pair with these desserts. She suggested St. Francis Merlot with the Chocolate Cake because of the subtle hint of chocolate. And for Adrian's Chocolate Banana Fritters she let me sample Nivole, Moscato d'Asti. Very delicious and nice mix with the Banana Fritters.
98 South, great for lovely dining with friends, imitate dinner with that special someone, and lounge atmosphere was enjoying drinks.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005 between 6-9pm 98 South is hosting a special fundraiser for Tsunami Victims. "An evening of wine and great food to raise money for Tsunami Victims." Silent auction featuring local merchants, complimentary wine glasses, and live entertainment. $50 per person. 602-418-4866.
#History, Forbidden Rice By Cynthia Kirkeby, Jul 19, 2004, 09:20
The Great Cheesecake Debate
There are cheesecakes and than there is NY Style Cheesecake. NYPD Pizza boasts a NY Cheesecake. Great creamy smooth taste but not the consistency of a true NY Cheesecake, which is thick, thick and very thick and creamy. We all agreed the raspberry cheesecake at NYPD is still great. The Bota Bing Chocolate is very nice thick chocolate cake. Not overdone with sugary chocolate and thoroughly enjoyable!
We washed the desserts from NYPD Pizza down with Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino. Incidentally, on sale at Albertson's for $2.99. Lowfat creamy blend of coffee and milk, but too sugary for my Espresso tastes. I have to admit, if I lost in the desert with only Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino would I drink it? You bet.
I See Pancakes in the Grand Canyon - 020305
I have this thing about seeing food in almost everything I look at. Now that's what I call food obsessed. Mike Buchheit, lustrous
field director of the Grand Canyon Field Institute, was giving a colorful and informative presentation at REI in Tempe on trials and tribulations of Grand Canyon water rafting. Packed full of great slides depicting rafting adventures of the Colorado and Green Rivers.
Mike reenacted historical overview of the first rafting expeditions. He made very clear to us if we were ever to venture into the Canyon either by hiking, mule pack, or rafting that drinking water is essential.
AND, he emphasized that eating is equally important. The REI room was packed with accomplished adventure seekers, first timers, and those who could only hope through Mike's presentation to experience the greatness of the Grand Canyon.
I sat next to Kim Buchheit,
graphic designer extraordinary and Mike's wife. She opened her lovely purse and pulled out chocolate candies and cookies Mike's mother made. She nudged me with open bags indicating I should have one. These yummy treats were a great accompaniment to exciting exposition and adventurous rafting tales of the Grand Canyon Mike related to the spell bound audience. At the end of the presentation I felt like I been on a rafting tour as I looked up at the slide on the screen I swore I saw a stack of pancakes instead of the sandstone plateau.
As we were leaving Kim introduced me to Rachel Woodburn, accomplished artist and instructor at the Scottsdale Community College. Rachel and I had a delightful conversation about the arts in Phoenix. She reminded me I should attend First Fridays, incidentally is this Friday. She also gave a tip on a place to have dinner, My Florist.
After the engaging discussion on Grand Canyon water rafting dinner was encouraged. It was late about 9pm by Phoenix standards. Not many restaurants were open, but
NYPD Pizza in Chandler welcomed us with open arms. Pizza pies and pancakes have a somewhat similar look. Carolyn, our dining host, knew we must be hungry and took our order. Joey's Favorite, vegetarian pizza in which we added anchovies I planned on splitting with my mom. My dad ordered Brooklyn Family consisting of his favorite toppings of pepperoni, sausage and fresh basil and beverage of choice Budweiser. To my surprise they had Stewart's Root Beer, which I love! Even through I grew up with A&W.
Carolyn didn't mess around she brought us Chelsea Chopped Salad quickly. Almonds, bacon, gorgonzola cheese, sun dried tomatoes, mixed greens and NYPD's own dressing that is a mix of house vinaigrette and ranch dressing. It was tasty but I have pet peeve about what mixed greens are suppose to be. When I think of mix greens I think of green leafy lettuce, arugula, roman lettuce but no iceberg lettuce. According to
Food Reference.com "Iceberg lettuce is 90% water and has very little flavor, and almost no nutrients." You can find the complete nutrient breakdown at
Nutrition Data. With a title like Chelsea Chopped Salad, being a former Manhattanite once have an apartment in the center of Chelsea, removing Iceberg and replacing it with lovely fresh greens will upscale the favor all the more and live up to it's name!
While waiting for our pizzas to be served, Earth Kitt was singing C'est Si Bon in the background, we debated the nicely painted NYC cityscape mural. I kept looking and looking finally concluding directional perspective was off. I walked every inch of Manhattan where I live there for over 18 years the skyline is burned in my mind what I was seeing wasn't in realty. Execution of the painting is nice nevertheless.
Seconds after our artistic debate, Carolyn came with pizzas in hand. I sampled both Joey's Favorite and Brooklyn Family it was hard to decide which one I liked best. With all honesty I can say, "It's so good!" NYPD does pizza right! Both crust and sauce rich in favor made me long for home!
We couldn't finish the rest of pizza so it was boxed to go. Carolyn came out with a surprise us to sample later on: New York Cheesecake and The Bada Bing Chocolate Cake. Later on I'll have a tasting while I write the next Daily Eats.
This former New Yorker is proud to say NYPD is a great place for pizza, fun, and of course to debate the history of New York City, Italian culture and the
"families"!
Postscripts:
Hit The Trail Grand Canyon and Southwest - Mike Buchheit
My October 31, 2001
hike at the Grand Canyon with Kim and Mike Buchheit and Tom Spataro, my brother.
12:19 pm I'm hungry for my Daily Lunch
I've already traveled 50 miles back and forth this morning. I had a 9am meeting in Chandler. I have to confess I didn't have a good breakfast, no it was bad breakfast. Now I'm feeling bad, hungry and thinking about lunch. Lunch will probably be salad with fresh cut carrots, red onions, farm fresh tomatoes, all sitting on a bed of mixed greens. And oh my favorite black olives and fresh
Boar's Head turkey lunch meat rolled up and cut down into neat edible pieces. An added touch, something Jackie Sallon turned me on to, is fresh cheese from
Whole Foods Market in Tempe.
While I was visiting London in the spring of last year, I met up with Jackie Sallon who introduced me to
Neal's Yard cheeses. Oh my god that's what I call heaven! Each type of cheese is distinct, favorable, and so fresh there's slight taste grass. Jackie disclosed Neal Yard is sold in Whole Foods much to my happiness. If you happen to visit London do go to Covent Gardens and visit Neal's Yard Dairy, tell them Jackie Sallon sent you! You won't be disappointed.
Well, here begins my love affair with the Neal's Yard and Whole Foods. Now, when I go to Whole Foods I make the cheese department my favorite place to spend time sampling different cheeses. The person behind the cheese counter is knowledgeable and can talk cheese. The best part of Whole Foods is they take the guessing out of what you may think a cheese may taste like by giving you a sample. Just this week I bought three different types of yummy organic cheeses and a Neal's Yard Cheshire.
Additional links:
Everything's Coming Up CheeseOn the subject of cheese...
013105 - Talk of The Town and Inspiration of Mary Lou Quinlan
The Talk of The Town
We were truly the talk of the town at Tott's Asian Diner located in Tempe on Guadalupe and McClintock. Originally, having plans to dine at C Fu, but Vivian Valenty said she had a bad food experience there. Yes, Vivian Valenty of
VB Cosmetics joined Kim and Mike Buchheit, Joyce and Tony Spataro and myself, the chief eater Tery Spataro, for another exciting adventure in dining out for Daily Eats.
Tott's Asian Diner is sparsely decorated don't let the lack of decoration fool you. The portions as we all agreed are enormous and very tasty! Did I say large portions, which you can share? Healthy dining all the way no dreaded M.S.G. added to the cooking, only freshest high quality ingredients are used, vegetables are crispy. No greasy slick left behind after eating. The kitchen is open inviting an audience to view the cooking show. Willing to cook to order as Vivian instructed David, our dining host, that she could no long have salt. I had the Pad Thai noodles with traditional Pad Thai sauce. Did I share with anyone? No way!
Tott's environment evoked pleasant dining conversation from business ventures, to hiking the Grand Canyon, to latest health issues. At the end of our dinner Young Troung, manager of Tott's Asian Diner, greeted us with fortune cookies. We all had good fortune, but mom needed to get a better one so Mr. Troung was nice enough to let her have 2 more because 3 is a charm. We will be back to Tott's.
Inspiration of Mary Lou Quinlan
Instead of dessert we continued our evening to the Changing Hands Bookstore across the street from Tott's. Mike Buchheit and Tony Spataro decided they would ditch us and go to the next door bar for a few beers. Too bad they missed an exhilarating discussion. What an exciting passionate heartfelt evening we had listening to Mary Lou Quinlan talking about her latest book,
"Time Off For Good Behavior" ! Mary Lou Quinlan is a corporate super star, mentor, and model for today's working women, spoke to a packed room at the Changing Hands Bookstore, so packed chairs were flowing out of the room. We can all resonate with her descriptions of the type A good girl, burn out, worker's fatigue, and feeling as though your life is no longer your own. It's that run away worker's train that takes us further and further away from who we are and our purpose to this universe.
Sitting in the back row with Kim Buchheit, we could feel the swell of emotion as the audience nodded in agreement with Mary Lou. One young woman, almost in tears, lamented that she is the major income earner she would not be able to the time off she so desperately needed. She is the manager of a key supply chain for a top corporation in Arizona. We all paused in silence to feel the pain of the young woman. I know her pain; I was a corporate executive, business owner, Internet trailblazer and marketer in fast paced advertising world of New York City. Plane jumping was my specialty, I knew I was lost when I woke up early one morning and could not tell you which city I was in, who I was suppose to see, or most importantly who I was. At that point I thought I have to get out and that's what did.
Mary Lou inspires you to take the plunge seek out passionate and pursue it with love. She encourages us to stop and take a good look at our lives and ask questions are we happy with who we are and ourselves? Do even truly know who we are outside of the work role we play each day? Mary Lou puts forth in
Time Off For Good Behavior her own story and those stories of real women who struggle with determining when they can stop get off the roller coaster and take time to find themselves. Do check-in to the
Time Off For Good Behavior Blog.
Three postscripts:
Visit the
Grand Canyon and ask for Mike and Kim Buchheit. Incidentally, Mike is the field director and
Kim Buchheit is an amazing graphic designer - I highly recommend.
VB Cosmetics are AWESOME! I love them! Hair, skin and body care products are to die for!
Changing Hands Bookstore is a true book lover's treasure! February 14, 5-7pm Changing Hands is hosting an evening with Chocolate and Books! You can bet 70% cocoa I'll be there!
