Garden Pizza Review

Lately, I've been tutoring as a side gig and so on one Sunday night, I simply wasn't in the mood to cook. So we hopped on Seamless and ordered the usual - some pizza, an eggplant grinder, and fries. This time around, we decided to check out Garden Pizza.

Sunday Special [$12.99]
Large 2-topping pizza, 2-liter soda
 

There was a Sunday special for only $12.99 - a large 2 topping and a 2-liter. While I love my Sodastream, nothing beats real soda so the GF was excited. But back to the food. We went with pepperoni and breaded eggplant (we really are on an eggplant kick).

The pizza itself was pretty standard - the dough could have been better seasoned and the crust could have been crispier. The breaded eggplant was a bit limp and soggy, though the salty bits of pepperoni were nice. Overall, meh. 

Eggplant Grinder [$6.25]
 

The GF's eggplant grinder contained a glut of cheese, but the eggplant itself was a bit mushy for being breaded. The roll is fresh and airy, but there was a real lack of texture for this sandwich. Definitely prefer Jake's PIzza's eggplant sandwich.

Large French Fries [$3.99] 

We also got an order of fries which was nicely creamy, though not seasoned. While I can forgive the lack of salt (to each their own), I couldn't forgive the lack of crunch on the outside of these fries In a word - limp.

Overall, I'll take a pass on Garden Pizza - there are simply too many other pizza joints that offer better pizza and sides for this place to stand out for me. But if you're looking for an affordable option, it may be worth checking out. Maybe you'll get better execution than I did!

www.gardenpizza.com

Bad Daddy's Burger Bar: Charlotte Douglas International Airport Review

On our way back to Philly from Michigan, the GF and I had a layover at Charlotte Douglas International in North Carolina. We were also in the mood for burgers so decided to check out Bad Daddy's Burger Bar.

Cookies n Cream Spiked Milkshake [$13.49]
Vodka, Kahlua, Baileys, Oreo cookies

We decided to share one of the spiked milkshakes, which was a creamy mix of Oreo cookies and Kahlua and Baileys which always goes well together. You could get a faint whiff of the vodka, but the cookies and cream was definitely at the forefront. Not bad at all.

Fried Pickles [$8.29]
Sliced dill pickles, lightly breaded, ranch dressing
  

And if fried pickles are on the menu, it's probably going to be ordered. These were delicious. Briny - almost to a fault - these were deftly fried and rendered crisp. The ranch dressing offered some respite from the salt at first, but to be honest, brought it over the top. But perhaps I was complaining because I knew what was to come for me. 

Chicken Club Burger [$10.99]
 

The GF went with a ground chicken club burger, which came with the addition of ham, bacon, and cheese. The burger itself was moist and well-seasoned. The ham was a bit much, but who can say no to bacon.

 
Onion Straws
Chipotle ranch dipping sauce
  

She opted for the onion straws, which were delicious, but added to the heavy nature of this particular meal. It came with a chipotle ranch dipping sauce, which again initially tempered the salt and grease, but really brought it over the top.

Bacon Cheeseburger on Steroids [$13.49]
Burger, 3 pieces of jalapeno bacon, 3 pieces of applewood smoked bacon, Monterey Jack, Baconnaise, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onion, pickle

 

And what exactly was I 'concerned' about? I had to get the bacon cheeseburger on steroids - replete with 6 slices of jalapeno and applewood smoked bacon. Baconnaise added to this calorie bomb, with the grease of the burger and bacon resulting in a soggy bottom bun. And first few bites were delicious, the burger itself was overpowered and even I couldn't finish this. Needless to say, I was drinking lots of water for the rest of the day.

Tater Tots
Bad Daddy's sauce

I went with tater tots and couldn't help but enjoy these childhood favorites - crisp on the outside and creamy within, these were on point. 

So if you're looking for a light meal during a layover, do not head to Bad Daddy's. But if you're looking to satiate an urge for mounds of bacon and grease, look no further - they've got you covered, and then some. 

Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
5501 R C Josh Birmingham
Charlotte, NC 28208
(704) 714-4888
www.baddaddysburgerbar.com

Portillo's Hot Dogs Review

This is for a series of posts for a 2014 Chicago trip including Alinea, Giordano's, Bottlefork, Bub City, Portillo's Hot Dogs, Doubletree Hilton: Magnificent Mile, and Garrett Popcorn Shops.

With Hot Doug's closing down, I obviously wanted to make the journey to cased meat Mecca during my recent trip to Chi-town. But alas, my packed schedule didn't allow for such a treat. Undaunted, I went to the next best thing for standard Chicago-style eats - Portillo's Hot Dogs.

Entering into this hot stop for Chicago foodie staples, you're transported into a jarring mix of sights that's not unlike something you'd encounter in New Orleans. It's hard to imagine that you're a few blocks away from the Magnificent Mile.

First things first. We had to try a proper Chicago-style hot dog. Once I saw the neon green relish on the assembly line, I knew we were in the right place. 

Hot Dog [$2.65]
Mustard, relish, freshly chopped onions, sliced red ripe tomatoes, kosher pickle, sport peppers, steamed poppy seed bun 

Immersed in a soft-steamed bun was a dog with sufficient snap. But really, it's the toppings that make each bite. The ripe tomato softened the acidity from the sport pepper and kosher pickle, with the chopped onions offering some bite. But for me, it's the celery salt that makes it. Delicious. Ketchup need not apply.

Chili Cheese Dog [$3.15]
Chili, cheddar, onions

We also got a chili cheese dog, which was a creamy, savory mess (in a good way!), with the bite of onion offering some texture.

Italian Beef [$5.10] with Hot & Sweet Peppers [$1]
Dipped

I also needed to get an Italian Beef, fully dipped of course. The bread was completely soggy by the time I got to it, but despite the lack of texture, the peppery mix of succulent beef with the juxtaposition of both hot and sweet peppers was an explosion in mouth. The giardiniera was the cherry on the top.

Large Cheese Fries [$2.74]
 

The large cheese fries weren't exactly large, but they were certainly crispy, with the crinkle cut texture offering the perfect vessel to sop up the creamy, salty cheese dip.

Overall, Portillo's offers affordable eats and showcases the good, simple food that Chicago is known for. It's unadulterated and delicious.

http://www.portillos.com/portillos/look/

Bub City Review

This is for a series of posts for a 2014 Chicago trip including Alinea, Giordano's, Bottlefork, Bub City, Portillo's Hot Dogs, Doubletree Hilton: Magnificent Mile, and Garrett Popcorn Shops. 

For our first lunch in Chi-town, I was with the GF and her folks in the neighborhood of some of Rick Bayless' restaurants. But due to wait times and the fact that we were starving, we opted to head to Bub City, which was right next door.

Once I saw the whiskey bar on the right, I figured we were home. The atmosphere was a bit cowboy-kitschy and seemed perfect for brunch.

Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hashbrowns [$6.95] + Fried Egg [$1.49]

When I saw burnt ends on the menu, I knew we had to order it. Unfortunately, there was only a pittance of burnt ends actually in this dish. Still, there was a certain creaminess to the potatoes that was magnified by the addition of the fried egg. The scallions added freshness, with the shreds of regular brisket offering some savory bites. Texture was needed here (read: more crispy bits of burnt ends!) 

Giddy Up Fries [$12.95]
Pulled pork, cheddar, jalapeno, sour cream
  

We saw another table with a huge platter of waffle fries topped with a smorgasbord of nacho toppings. So we had to get the giddy up fries as well. This is the better bet - there was plenty of pulled pork, cheese, peppers, and jalapenos, on top of crispy waffle fries. Definitely a good dish to share with a couple of drinks.

El Paso Chopped Salad [$9.95] + Fried Chicken [$3.95]
 

The GF went with the fried chicken chopped salad, which offered fresh greens, tomatoes, beans, corn, cucumber, and a chopped egg. The fried chicken came sized as nuggets, but were still moist and juicy. 

Fried Chicken & Waffles [$14.95]
Bacon-jalapeno honey, country gravy
  

The fried chicken on my dish were similar. The accompanying country gravy was thick, heavy, and savory - just what you need after a late night. The bacon jalapeno honey could have used more kick from the jalapeno and bacon. The waffle was no point though - crisp, light, offering a great contrast in texture. 

Overall, Bub City seems to be a fun place to grab brunch with friends. The wheel isn't exactly reinvented here, but that's alright. I'll definitely need to check out the straight up BBQ next time I come around town.

www.bubcitychicago.com

Doubletree Hilton: Chicago - Magnificent Mile Review

This is for a series of posts for a 2014 Chicago trip including Alinea, Giordano's, Bottlefork, Bub City, Portillo's Hot Dogs, Doubletree Hilton: Magnificent Mile, and Garrett Popcorn Shops. 

During a recent trip to Chicago, I booked some rooms at the Doubletree Hilton a block away from the Magnificent Mile. In addition to offering Northwestern alum discounts, they were at the center of all the tourist attractions the GF's family was looking to explore.

At first glance, we were a bit unnerved by the fact that there were buckets in the middle of the lobby, catching water dripping from the ceiling above. But luckily, everything was fine by the next day.

As with all Doubletree Hilton locations, we were welcomed with a warm cookie and some bottled water. Who can complain about that? 

There's also a bar at this location, which seemed to be a prime spot for people to get drinks before going out. And because the World Cup was on during this time, there was definitely a crowd here during the game. 

In addition to the location, one of the main reasons we decided to stay at the Doubletree Hilton was the supposed view of the lake and the rooftop pool.

Alas, despite being on the upper floor, there were quite a few buildings that restricted a true view of the lake. 

And the rooftop pool? It's on the roof of the lower tower - not an exactly an escape.

The bathroom was the biggest disappointment - definitely hasn't been renovated since the 90's and the water pressure was lacking.

On the other hand, the 24 hour gym was just fine. They had free weights and several machines.

And for your daily cardio, there were plenty of treadmills and ellipticals. 

Overall, if location is key, the Doubletree Hilton will suffice. It's a bit dated if you're looking for a luxury experience, but when it's only $175 per night, it's got pretty much everything you need.

Doubletree Hilton: Chicago - Magnificent Mile
300 E. Ohio Street
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 787-6100
http://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/illinois/doubletree-by-hilton-hotel-chicago-magnificent-mile-CHIMMDT/index.html

Giordano's: Rush Street Review

This is for a series of posts for a 2014 Chicago trip including Alinea, Giordano's, Bottlefork, Bub City, Portillo's Hot Dogs, Doubletree Hilton: Magnificent Mile, and Garrett Popcorn Shops. 

Regular readers know that despite being a New Yorker, I've got a soft spot for Chicago deep dish. And despite the competitors, Giordano's reigns supreme to me, though it's likely due to having a location in Evanston, where I went to school. So when I recently returned to Chicago, I knew I had to make a pit stop. 

I was showing off the sights of Chicago to the GF and her folks so during the requisite walk down the Magnificent Mile, we decided to grab dinner at the Rush Street location.

Be warned, this location is packed. There are no reservations here so plan ahead. By that, I mean plan to do some shopping after you drop off your name and number with the hostess. Or grab a drink at a nearby bar. Why not a drink at Giordano's? Its bar will likely be packed as well. 

In fact, we were told 'only' 45 minutes, but the wait was actually twice as long. That left a bad taste in my mouth, but I knew the taste of Chicago deep dish would likely satiate both my appetite and annoyance.

Ripe Tomato Bruschetta with Mozzarella [$7.50]
Diced tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil, garlic toast, balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella
 

And with a Yelp check-in, we received a free appetizer. So we opted for the bruschetta to whet our appetites. It was a bit cumbersome to eat because the toppings simply slid off the toast points. However, each bite was still offered the fresh flavors one comes to expect from what was essentially a caprese salad bruschetta. Nothing novel, but tasty nonetheless. 

Chicken Carbonara Rigatoni [$13.95]
Chicken, bacon, peas, mushrooms, Alfredo sauce
  

The GF was in the mood for pasta, so she went with the chicken carbonara rigatoni. It was more of an alfredo with a thick cream sauce sans egg. Still, the pasta was cooked al dente and the bacon accented the cheese sauce, with the mushroom and peas providing earthy elements to the dish. 

Large Chicago Classic [$32.75]
Pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, green peppers
  

But really, the show stopper was the deep dish. I think the real reason I love Giordano's so much is the fact that there is a huge mound of cheese in each bite. And this pizza did not disappoint. The cheese was littered with bits of salty pepperoni, tempered by the mushrooms, onions and green peppers. The tangy tomato sauce atop provided the perfect foil for each bite. And the buttery crust? Nothing gets left behind.

Despite the long wait, service was good and the pizza was even better. It took everything I had not to fill my suitcases with frozen pies to go. And despite the high premium to get these bad boys shipped to the East Coast, I know that another Giordano's pie is in my near future.

www.giordanos.com

2014 Best of Philly Bash Review

Courtesy of Yelp and Philly Magazine, I was provided with two tickets to this year's Best of Philly Bash. Complimentary drinks and tastes from some of the city's best restaurants? Set at Citizens Bank Park, the home of the Phillies? You know I'll be there!

General Admission - $90 pp [6:30 - 9PM]

VIP - $150 pp [5 to 9PM]

Needless to say, there were a variety of sponsors on hand for an event of this magnitude. This included Mercedes-Benz, which offered comfortable lounge seating for VIPs who tired of alcohol and food. So anyone not me.

Despite the rain, you couldn't help but admire the fact that the stands weren't filled with fans - and not just because the Phillies did so poorly this season.

The Philly Phanatic was still on hand, dancing with guests and Ciroc girls alike, to the cover-band tunes of Speaker City.

Yellowtail was offering their wines, but there was also plenty of open bars throughout the stadium, offering Crown Royal, Ciroc-spiced snow cones, and fresh lemonade mixers.

Firefly
 

Firefly Moonshine was a big hit as well, offering several cocktails and shots to sample.

Bloody Mary

Jerry's Bar

Best City Brunch, 2014

  

Jerry's bar offered a standard, yet effective take on the Bloody Mary, complete with cocktail shrimp and cornichons.

Tuna Cornette 

Alma de Cuba

Best Girls Night Out, 2010

But really, it's all about the food for me. And while I'm a fan of Alma de Cuba, the tuna cornettes were a bit limp, though had decent seasoning. A sad nod to Thomas Keller's cornettes perhaps?

Ahi Tartare on Endive / Salmon with Yuzu

CoZara / Zama

Best Replacement for the Wall at the Palm, 2011  

The sister restaurants offered light fare, with the salmon being one of the GF's favorites.

Tuna with Black Sesame Cracker

Sbraga

 Best General Manager, 2014

The most refined dish was definitely from Sbraga - tuna was fresh and well seasoned, and the black sesame cracker offered nice texture. 

Mortadella, Cornichon, Frisee

Brahaus Schmitz

   Best Potato Pancakes, 2014

While Brahaus Schmitz won for best potato pancakes, they brought forth a mortadella salad, which had mustard seeds to make each bite pop. Still - I love me some latkes ... womp womp.

 Panzanella Salad with Summer Vegetables

Alla Spina

 Best Late-Night Happy Hour, 2013

Alla Spina offered a refreshing take on this classic Italian salad, replete with summer veggies and crisp house-made croutons.

 Naengmyun 

Cheu Noodle Bar

 Best Wings, 2014

Cheu Noodle Bar offered up what seemed to be a take on Korean neng myun - refreshing and light, with bits of tame kimchi to offer up some spice.

Thai Lettuce Wrap

Hip City Veg

Best Salad, 2012

 

Hip City Veg brought forth an even lighter bite, that was still substantial - wouldn't expect anything less.

Corn Sformatto

Garces Trading Company

Best Deep Dish Pizza, 2013 

  

GTC's corn sformatto was almost flan-like in consistency, with the sweet flavors of corn accented by the acidity of the tomato - really nice.

Ratatouille Soup, Goat's Milk Panna Cotta

Pub and Kitchen

 Best Gourmet Burger, 2014

Pub and Kitchen's ratatouille soup offered deep flavors, lightened up by the milk panna cotta beneath.

 Ceviche de Camarones

Distrito

 Best Mod Mexican Restaurant, 2010

Distrito's take on shrimp ceviche was fresh and had some bite to it.

Pan-Seared Pierogies, Brown Butter, Creme Fraiche

Aramark Pierogie Station

Surprisingly, Aramark was on hand and while they seemed to be missing the bacon lardons, the brown butter pierogie was on point - creamy and delicious. 

Iced Coffee

La Colombe

Best Liquid Breakfast, 1997

Despite not being a coffee drinker, La Colombe served as a great pick-me-up.

Pretzels and Dips

Philly Pretzel Factory

Best Soft Pretzel, 2008

Philly Pretzel factory was on hand to provide you with all your carbo-loading needs, replete with an abundance of different dips, including my favorite spicy - oh so spicy - mustard!

Pizza

Slice

Best Pizza, 2007 

The weakest offering of the night (if you can call it that) was from Slice - the pizza was cold and inedible - tasted like it was from 2007 - sorry, had to go there.

Tomato Pie

Santucci's

 

On the other hand, Santucci's tomato pie was divine. Despite being delivered from their restaurant, the pizza was hot and crusty, with the tang of the tomatoes providing a great foil for the thin layer of mozzarella beneath. I'm not going to lie - I might have had 3 of these.

 Meatball

Gennaro's Tomato Pie

Best New York Style Pizza, 2013 

Gernnaro's offered a moist meatball, topped with pecorino.

 Samosa, Chickpeas, Tamarind Chutney & Drums of Heaven

IndeBlue

 Best New Indian Restaurant, 2009

IndeBlue was definitely a favorite, offering a duo of their drums of heaven specialty and samosas. Well-spiced!

Shrimp Roll

Luke's Lobster

 Best Seafood on the Cheap, 2013

  

Luke's Lobster was a crowd favorite as well - the shrimp rolls were so buttery and the servers were machines, churning them out quickly, despite having one of the longest lines of the event.

Tasso, Granny Smith, Cheese, Crostini

Plenty Cafe

Best Ham Sandwich, 2014

Who can say no to tasso? The apple provided a nice balance for the cured ham.

Brisket Sausage Taco

Citron + Rose

Best Cocktail Suburbs, 2013

 

Citron + Rose's brisket sausage taco was creamy and rich.

Truffle Chicken Boudin, English Pea Puree, Sherry Vinegar 

Le Cheri

Best French Restaurant, 2014

   

Le Cheri showcased some technique with their offering - clean and light. 

Stone Fruit Parfait, Mascarpone, Almond

Matyson

Best Tasting Menu, 2014  

Moving on to the desserts of the night, Matyson had a stone fruit parfait, which was light, creamy, and sweet.

Fromage Blanc Raspberry Swirl

Shake Shack

   Best Milkshake, 2013

Shake Shack was on hand to offer up their rapsberry swirl custard - not overly sweet.

Ciroc was dishing out shades. Perhaps for the night's finale?

Bellies full and drinks imbibed, fireworks lit up the night as the event came to a close. So for 2015, if you're looking to get a taste of Philly's restaurant scene, what better way than to attend Philly Mag's Best of Philly Bash.

2014 Best of Philly Bash

Citizen's Bank Park

1 Citizens Bank Way 

Philadelphia, PA 19148

http://www.phillymag.com/bestofphilly/