The MET Back Bay, 279 Dartmouth St., Boston, MA (@Newbury Street)

The Met Back Bay is located in the historic townhouse building which previously housed Joe's American Bar & Grill, the not-so-average restaurant which hosted numerous historic figures and folklore. NOTE: Joe's has only moved up the street to Exeter and Newbury at the old Friday's site...awesome in the warmer months for open air dining.
A few changes were obvious....most notably, to the bar area on the main level.  The bar is now more intimate and closed in versus the previous open area design.  Otherwise, not much has changed, except perhaps one sequins-encumbered hostess...which I found a bit tacky.

The Met restaurants are well-known for their contemporary cuisine and variety of dining experiences from the low-key/sports bar feel of their Dedham (Legacy Place) locale, the swanky bar/restaurant feel and daily special ( http://www.travelingfoodie2006.blogspot.com/2011/12/best-weekly-restaurant-events-under.html ) at the Chestnut Hill location, to the posh Back Bay locale. 

I spent Valentine's evening with none other than an ex-boyfriend/friend so we unfortunately avoided the prixe-fix lover's menu (chuckle), but I thought the menu was well thought out.  It featured entrees for two and lover-themed desserts such as red velvet ice cream with a red hots caramel drizzle...very romantic idea.

My amazing meal consisted of the lobster bisque, a beautifully prepared medium-rare filet mignon + a side of Boston Béarnaise, creamy mashed potatoes, and curried cauliflower 'salad' and a couple of glasses of champagne and St. Germain.

The lobster bisque did not impress.  I found it thin, heavy on the cream, lacking enough sherry for my taste, with a hint of truffle (which you may have learned is my kryptonite).  Strangely enough, it was garnished with a seared scallop encased in a puff pastry ring.

Moving along...you should interpret the "Met Salads", both cold and hot, as side dishes.  The actual large, dinner salads are under "Large Standards".  The curried cauliflower blew me away!!! The cauliflower was cooked in a mildly aromatic, contemporary, island curry...primarily featuring delicate spices such as nutmeg, and ginger (maybe anise or fennel?) really rocked my world...so much so that I had to take some home for lunch the following day!!!  Chef Winer always appeals to my cauliflower obsession!

My friend started with the French onion soup which both of us found to be overwhelming in the onion department...so much so that I asked out server to inquire about the recipe in the back of the house.  We were informed that for every  30 gallons of base, 100 medium-sized onions are added!
I was disappointed with the fact that the dish was not baked, as is traditional, but that it was torched, as would be a crème brûlée.
For his entree he ordered the Back Bay Burger topped with a thin piece of fried cheese (marvelous) and melted Vermont extra sharp cheese, port wine infused onion, and smoked bacon on a sesame bun.  The burger was served with fantastic hand cut steak fries.

Overall, it was the atmosphere I expected and there are tons of items on the menu which I plan to try very soon!

Intercontinental Hotel & Resort, San Jose, Costa Rica

Costa Rican Nights

Those who know me or follow my travel blog are aware of my loyalty to certain hotel chains.  Intercontinental Hotels are always great places to stay anywhere in the world.

The Real Intercontinental Hotel & Club Tower in San Jose, Costa Rica did not disappoint!  If you can request the upgrade to The Tower, definitely do!  You will have access to your own concierge, be in close proximity to the Salon & Spa and the Fitness Center, as well as nightly 'cocktail hour' featuring complimentary amuse-bouche, aperitifs, cocktails, beer, and wine.  There are also complimentary buffet breakfast daily.

Service was magnificent at the Real Intercontinental...from the concierge assisting with day trips and dinner reservations, to the fantastic spa team and services, and the four on-property restaurants. 

Real Intercontinental

Looking over San Jose

Definitely sign up for Full Day and Half Day trips!  The concierge will help you choose and book these trips...

Must sees are Braulio Carrillo National Park.  Driving through the park on the two lane road (Limon Highway) cutting through the middle is amazing.  The park spans an impressive 117,580 acres of land and includes several ecosystems, including rain and tropical cloud forests!

There's so much history and many sights in Costa Rica.  I recommend trying each coast (Pacific and Carribean) as they are very different in culture and scenic value.

INBioparque 

11,000 feet above sea level...Heading up to Irazu

The Irazu volcano (pics below), the highest peak in Costa Rica.  The Irazu has four craters and you can see the Carribean and Pacific plains.

          A typical photo of Irazu Volcano. Credit: Daniel Vargas

My shot of Irazu

Poolside

 
The Hotel Restaurants:

Azulejos serves an amazing brunch buffet!  The spread was like nothing I've seen before.  There were so many selections, it's almost overwhelming...fresh seafood, pastas, carving stations, and decadent desserts.


Factory Steak & Lobster serves fantastic steaks and even juicy burgers.  They have an area overlooking the pool area as well.

Nau Lounge served impressive sushi and sashimi.  The ambiance is super sleek and sexy.


We didn't try Alfredo's, the Italian restaurant.
 

Heading to Cocktail Hour

 White nosed Coati attempting to hitch a ride from Irazu

Sucio River near Braulio Carrillo National Park. I couldn't get a good shot of this from the vehicle.
http://iclc.ws/gallery/displayimage.php?album=24&pos=3

Chefs for Obama Fundraiser @Cyclorama-Boston Center for the Arts, South End

A Gastro-Democrat's dream!

Chefs for Obama was one of the best fundraisers I've been to...a cooking competition and food tasting judged by Governor Deval Patrick, First Lady Diane Patrick, Chef Ming Tsai (Blue Ginger), State Treasurer Steve Grossman, and one lucky event attendee.

Top Boston area food artists displayed their great talents all in support of a second term for Obama-Biden.







The chefs all utilized healthier alternatives for some or all of their ingredients in keeping with First Lady Michelle Obama's platform.  Many of the chefs were quoted (in the Massachusetts Chefs for Obama cookbook) sharing their concerns about healthy eating, especially for children.



My favorite cold dish:
Chef Tiffani Faison of Sweet Cheeks (http://www.sweetcheeksq.com/ , Fenway) and Bravo's Top Chef (Season 1) prepared a lovely cooled roasted and raw brussels sprout salad tossed in olive oil and champagne vinegar with cooked farro, hazelnuts, and cut red grapes and topped with grated parmesan.  After a few bites, I suddenly realized I'd never eaten brussels sprouts.  I consider myself lucky to experience them for the first time prepared by this amazing chef.  Sweet Cheeks' table also had the best energy.  Tiffani and her staff were especially upbeat and inviting.

My favorite hot dish:
Chef Marc Orfaly of Pigalle and Marco (www.pigalleboston.com, Theater District/http://www.marcoboston.com , North End) absolutely blew me away with his rich, creamy, and simply amazing butternut squash mac and cheese.  THIS, people, is comfort food at its very core!  Topped with panko crumbs and made with three cheeses (grana padana, comté, and pecorino), this mac and cheese just may have surpassed B. Harris' (sorry grandmother...love you!)
Those who know me or have visited my yelp page (www.devotedfoodie.yelp.com) and discovered my Mac n' Cheese list, understand my obsession with this baked classic.
The healthy alternatives:  whole wheat pasta, 2% milk, squash...

The sweet dish:
After about 6 savory dishes, Chef Brian Reyelt of Franklin Cafe (http://www.franklincafe.com/, South End, Southie, and Cape Ann),  Citizen (http://www.citizenpub.com/, Fenway)/ and his latest venture,Tasty Burger (http://www.tastyburger.com/ , Fenway) drew me in with a torch...

The "Great Lawn S'mores" were delectable!
The Cookie:
Oatmeal and flax seed with toasted coconut.
The Toppings:
Homemade marshmallow (torched table side), carob dark chocolate drizzle, and "Peanut Butter Snow"= agave-coated roasted peanut brittle.
I have never been a s'mores gal simply because I am not a fan of marshmallows, but this treat changed my mind in an instant.



My truffled nightmare...
One ingredient that will never move me is truffle and truffle oil.  Two dishes of the evening featured truffle oil and my palate found this unforgivable.  The winning dish of the evening was my least favorite (purely because of my repulsion for truffle oil)...Chef Evan Deluty of Stella (www.bostonstella.com , South End)
came in first place with his whole wheat pizza with a trio of mushrooms and white truffle oil.  This dish looked amazing and it was just my luck that I was handed two pieces : / ...oh the irony.
The toppings: pecorino romano cheese, crimini, shitake, and oyster mushrooms, white truffle oil, and arugula salad...and more truffle oil.

Chef Rebecca Newell of The Beehive (www.beehiveboston.com , South End) served her grandmother's truffled potato and cheese pierogi recipe, which was darling, but I could have done without the truffle oil.  Chef Rebecca was friendly and personable so that made up for my personal intrinsic disappointment.  I am a fan of her menu at The Beehive, so it was nice to finally meet her!

The most aesthetic and creative dish:
Chef Christopher Coombs of Dbar (www.dbarboston.com , Dorchester) and Deaxave (http://deuxave.com/ , Back Bay) presented a beautiful plate.
A pan-seared diver scallop resting atop black quinoa in the center of a delicata squash ring.  The plate was garnished with a piece of crispy pork belly and thin honeycrisp apple 'straws'.  The maple aioli was a nice touch.
Chef Coombs served the type of dish that you see on a television cooking competitions and envy the judges!  It was simple but layered and beautiful with complimentary components.

The healthy AND environmentally friendly dish:

Chef Seth Morrison of The Gallows (www.thegallowsboston.com/ , South End) was openly praised by Governor Patrick and others for serving his amazing squash spaghetti in a compostable ladel-like spoon dish...not one plastic utensil or paper plate was in sight.

My favorite new thing is pasta made from something unexpected!  Chef Morrison served a dish using spaghetti squash topped with a mushroom bolognese.  I absolutely adored this dish!

The first time I experienced "non pasta pasta" was at Chef Jay Santos' Blue, Inc Boston where he created pasta made from shredded calamari topped with a pastrami bolognese...it was terrific (See my review: http://travelingfoodie2006.blogspot.com/2011/10/131-broad-st-boston-ma-02110-financial.html )
Just as an aside...you may remember Chef Santos as the blue-haired finalist  on Chef Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen!


Chef Maiden of Hungry Mother (www.hungrymothercambridge.com , Kendall Sq. Cambridge) presented grilled catfish tacos with halved grape tomato and collard greens kimchi ...all in keeping with his style of cooking...having a southern 'twang'...an elevated twist on deep southern cuisines and ingredients.
I've never been much of a catfish girl, even after 9 years of undergrad and veterinary medical school in Southeast Alabama.  I actually think I may suffer from what I've coined "Regional fish snobbery"...I was born and raised in Northern New Jersey which means my family's Friday night fish frys featured whiting and porgies. After almost 4 years living in New England, I still cannot appreciate cod or haddock the way the locals do.  Most of my immediate family have migrated to South Florida over the past 10-15 years and grouper is another fish with which I haven't necessarily fallen in love...
But I digress...Chef Maiden's collard greens kimchi/slaw was delicious and I was overall pleased with the dish and the concept behind it.

Chef Barbara Lynch of No. 9 Park (www.no9park.com , Dwtn Xing)/Drink (www.drinkfortpoint.com )/The Butchershop (www.thebutchershopboston.com , South End), etc. etc...served a lovely tomato basil soup with grilled cheese french country bread submersed in the cup.  It was delicious and a perfect palate cleanser!

Honorable Mentions:
Chef Gordon Hamersley served pan-seared duck breast over an autumn salad.  The duck was cooked perfectly and it was fun to tease him about how impressed I was that he traveled sooooo far for the event. (literally 4 doors down on the same block).  Hamersley Bistro, www.hamersleybistro.com , South End)

Chef Jamie Bissonnette of Coppa (www.coppaboston.com/ , South End) and Toro (www.toro-restaurant.com , South End) served fresh shucked oysters with a refreshing citrus foam.


Ironically, I did not try the 2nd or 3rd place winners' dishes.  Second place went to Chef Jody Adams of Rialto (www.rialto-restaurant.com , Harvard Sq. Cambridge)/Trade (www.trade-boston.com , Waterfront/Financial District) with a spiced cornish game hen with figs and orange.  Third place went to Chef Ting Wen Yen of Oishii (oishiiboston.com ,South End) with his shiitake sushi, tuna sushi, Kobe beef maki and Japanese yam tempura maki.  I was able to try the tuna sushi as this was all that was left by the time I reached their table.

Boston was the inaugural city for the Chefs for Obama campaign.  Word on the street is that Miami, NYC, and other cities will soon follow suit.  I think this is a grand idea!

20 Awesome Beach Front Hotels Under $200

http://www.caribbeantravelmag.com/articles/20-awesome-beachfront-hotels-under-200?cmpid=enews012612&spPodID=020&spMailingID=4359321&spUserID=MTk0MzE1NjUxMDES1&spJobID=261526341&spReportId=MjYxNTI2MzQxS0

(Now Closed) Petit Robert Bistro (French Cuisine), 1414 Commonwealth Ave, Brighton, MA

Petit Robert French Bistro is a fantastic neighborhood gem!  It's almost unheard of for restaurants in the Boston area to offer free valet parking!  That's a major plus.

Hors D'oeuvres

I enjoyed the fresh oysters on the half shell served with mignonette sauce.
We also enjoyed the tender escargot served in sizzling parsley butter.
The lobster bisque was terrific.  It was surprisingly spicy.  I enjoyed the little punch.

Entrees


The Cassoulet was amazing!  Moist lamb, tender navy beans, red bell peppers, and stewed tomato topped with a succulent duck leg quarter (confit) and pork sausage.  I ordered a side of sauteed spinach which was a perfect complement to this perfect dish.
NOTE:  Petite Robert has a decent list of champagne by the glass. 

My friends both ordered salmon dishes.  The grilled salmon special was good, served with a creamy dill sauce, grilled endive (which was awesome), mediocre mashed potatoes, and a sprig of fresh dill.

The Salmon Cordon Bleu was different; stuffed with  the perfect amount of Swiss cheese and endive, served with broccoli and those mediocre mashed potatoes.  Both dishes are a must try!


Desserts

The Mousse au Chocolat was just so-so.I enjoyed the vanilla wafer accompaniment better.
The vanilla creme brulee was fantastic!  Rich and creamy with a perfect torched sugar topping. 
I'm dying to try the Grand Marnier souffle!

The service was great!  Kudos to our server Brendan on ending his first week on a high note!

Did I mention FREE VALET?

www.petitrobertbistro.com
NOTE: This is the old Jacky's Table location.

Yankee Lobster Fish Market, 300 Northern Ave, Boston (Seaport District)

 I checked out Yankee Lobster after the Boston Wine Expo.  Yankee is one of those places you hear about from the moment you move to or visit the Boston area.


I decided (as is usually the case with me) to host my own "Tasting menu".  I ordered the following:  A small lobster bisque, small clam chowder, one crab cake, one clam strip roll, one fried lobster roll.  Both rolls were served with cole slaw and fries.

My review:


The lobster bisque was less than mediocre.  It was heavy on the cream, light on sherry, and lacked pretty much everything I love about lobster bisque...such as...lobster!
On to the clam chowder...  Now, we all know EVERY spot serving clam 'chowdah' in New England claims to be The Best.  Yankee Lobster actually served up a unique New England clam chowder.  For starters, this chowder was the heartiest I've every had featuring generous amounts of clam and potatoes.  The twist on this chowder was the smoky component.  It almost tastes wood smoked.  Though I suspect liquid smoke, I did enjoy the flavor.


The crab cake:  Now I remember reading on Yelp that "this was the best crab cake ever".  I soooo feel bad for this yelper!  This crab cake was indeed large, but mostly filler.  The coating was soggy and the seasoning was lacking.  The 'remoulade' sauce was the best thing on that platter and even that was mediocre at best.


The rolls:  I am usually not one to indulge in fried lobster.  I believe this lovely crustacean should always be served steamed.  I'm not a fan of grilled lobster either.  In saying this, Yankee Lobster served a pretty good fried lobster roll.  I prefer my lobster rolls to be hot (usually steamed with lots of butter), so I wasn't ready to dive into Yankee's well known cold lobster roll.  Fried lobster was my first choice on this day and I really enjoyed it.  Yankee did not disappoint on serving size and I had two lobster claws amongst the other chunks of tail.  The bread was good.  The lettuce were sparse, but who cares about roughage when you are enjoying lobster.  The clam strips roll was tasty as well, nothing spectacular; just about what you would expect a clam strip roll to taste like.  I did enjoy their tartar sauce which was heavy on the pickles.
The fries were nice...very crispy and thick cut.
The cole slaw was watery and not that appealing.




www.yankeelobstercompany.com/

St. James Room @ Fairmont Copely Place Hotel

I was disappointed when a few weeks ago I stopped by the Oak Room for the much desired (at least by me) Oysters Rockefeller only to find them closed.  Last weekend when I took an out-of-town friend there and they were still closed, I asked the doormen what was going on.  Unfortunately The Oak Room will reopen in the summer...

So I was forced to walk around to the St. James room.  I was not totally disappointed.
The floor manager/hostess was pleasant and even checked with the chef to see if he was able to make the oyster for me that evening.
NOTE: If you are going alone and not in a social mood, I would recommend checking out another place in the area.  The bar does not have stools for individuals to sit.  Instead it is surrounded by a 'lounging scene' with table and chairs set for 2 or more guests.

The bartender and general manager were friendly and accommodating.  Our drink orders remained simple: Black Label and a Champagne with St. Germain.

We started with a hearty crab cake served over a roasted red pepper coulis.  The cake was large, meaty, and seasoned well, but the binding could use some work.  It fell apart almost immediately.  I was NOT a fan of the lobster roll.  I can usually deal with cold lobster rolls if there is a rich mix/dressing/sauce on the meat and the bread roll stands out.  In this case, the lobster was fresh and tasty, but the dish overall left much to be desired.  The salmon entree was lovely.  The salmon was perfectly cooked and seasoned and served with a grilled garlic clove and a gravy boat of the roasted pepper coulis that came with the crab cake.  The coulis was unnecessary as the salmon was seasoned to perfection.

The atmosphere in the lounge area and the more formal small dining area is pretty low key...dark and intimate.  Though on this particular evening, the Patriots were beating Denver to a pulp and the crowd (spilling over from a wedding reception) was loud and rambunctious at times...I chocked it up to being the Boston way!

Brunch @ Eastern Standard Kitchen & Drinks, 528 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (Kenmore Square)

ES has always been a fabulous place to meet up to sample their classic and signature cocktails around their beautiful expansive bar.

My first Brunch here was amazing!
The quiche of the day was a mushroom, spinach, and feta quiche served with a fresh arugula salad.  The crust was thick but flaky and buttery.

The slow roasted brisket hash was delightful!  Tender portions of brisket, home fried potatoes, roasted red bell peppers, in a light jus with a poached egg atop.  This dish was great!  It was served in a small skillet.

My companion had the pancakes and cheddar omelet with bacon on the side, which he seemed to enjoy.

With our meals, we had brunch cocktails from either side of the spectrum.  Him, with a classic Irish Coffee (just Jameson, no Baileys and of course no whipped cream).  Me, with a modern cocktail called the Corio Coupe described as an aperitif cocktail of apricot vodka & bubbles.  It had a nice kick and beautiful color, garnished with a slice of apricot.

We both finished with classic whiskey smash (bourbon muddled with mint and lemon garnished with a sprig of mint).

The hostess and wait staff were fantastic as per usual.

I recommend adding Eastern Standard to your list of favorite Boston brunch spots as I have!

Also check out their great dinner and late night menus!

http://easternstandardboston.com/
Eastern Standard accepts reservations via www.Opentable.com

Best Weekly Restaurant Events UNDER $40/PERSON (Tastings, Themed, Quick Bites, etc.)

WHERE ARE YOUR FAVORITE INEXPENSIVE BOSTON AREA  AFTER WORK SPOTS?

HERE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVORITES AND A FEW I'D LIKE TO CHECK OUT SOON...

MONDAYS 

Cheap Date Night @ Myers + Changs

(Monday and Tuesday)

$40 per couple, 5:30 p.m

Chef Chang prepares a 3 course meal meant to be shared by couples

1145 Washington St., Boston

http://www.myersandchang.com/

NOTE:  Myers + Changs also hosts a Dim Sum Brunch every Saturday and Sunday!

Sibling Rivalry's Monday Night Rivalry

$29 per person

Sous Chef vs. Head Chef.  Both create unique dishes using the same ingredients. 

 525 Tremont St., Boston (South End)

www.siblingrivalryboston.com

Punch Drunk Mondays @ Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar

~ 5pm-2am, A la carte

$4 glasses of "seasonal punch", $2 cans of Budweiser

1310 Boylston St, Boston (Fenway)

http://www.citizenpub.com/

Burger Mondays @ The Metropolitan Club

~6pm- 10pm

$4.99 each...Hefty sliders (three varieties: The DC, Manhattan, and Mexico City as conceived by Chef  Winer)

1210 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill

http://www.metclubandbar.com

Steaks for a Steal @ Mooo (Steakhouse)
(Sundays and Mondays)

~Evenings

$35 Prix fixe meal (Starters: Lobster bisque, Caesar salad.../Entree Options: Sirloin, Cornish hen, Grilled salmon.../Desserts: chocolate brownie sundae, chocolate cheesecake...

 15 Beacon Street, Boston (Beacon Hill)
http://www.mooorestaurant.com/home.html

TUESDAYS

Taco Tuesdays @ La Verdad
~After 5 pm
$1.00 Tacos (unlimited)
1 Landsdowne Street (Fenway)
http://www.laverdadtaqueria.com

Grilled Cheese Tuesdays at dante

~ Classy Cheese Sandwiches ($2) after 5:30 p.m.

40 Edwin H. Land Blvd., Cambridge, MA  

http://restaurantdante.com/

Taco Tuesdays @ The Metropolitan Club

~5-10 pm (at the bar)

$6 for a trio 

Fillings such as: beef short rib with onion, coca cola and jalapeno, and pork carnitas with pineapple, chipotle and cilantro

1210 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill

http://www.metclubandbar.com

WEDNESDAYS

Tavolo's Pasta Tour

~Tour pasta dishes from around Italy.  $20 per person. No Reservations Required

1918 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, MA

http://tavolopizza.com/ 

 Twin Lobster Wednesdays @ The Metropolitan Club

~Twin Lobsters

$24.99 for two freshly steamed lobsters

1210 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill

http://www.metclubandbar.com

Late Night Raw Bar @ Sel de la terre (Long Wharf location)

~10-Midnight

$1 freshly shucked oysters

255 State Street, Boston
http://www.seldelaterre.com/

Thursday

Taste Thursdays @ Bond  (Langham Hotel)

~9pm-1am 

FREE as you listen to the DJ

250 Franklin Street, Boston
http://www.bondboston.com/

 

The Soul Spot, 302 Atlantic Avenue, (Brooklyn, NY , Boerum Hill)

I'll start this review with one tip:  "Possibly getting to this spot earlier in the day is best"

Now, not that the food was not fresh, but I'm sure the presentation and selection are better around lunch time.  We arrived for a late night (~9:30 or 10 pm) bite.

The locale:  Boerum Hill is a fantastic part of Brooklyn with multiple small ethnic restaurants, art galleries, places of worship, boutiques, cute brownstones and newer condominiums...just the type of neighborhood I'd choose if I lived in the borough!



The restaurant is a simple, small storefront style establishment with a handful of tables set for dining in.  The dishes are kept warm over steam and behind glass. Overall, the place was neat and clean.  The staffer taking orders was not necessarily personable, but polite.

Our meal: Inexpensive.
The 'buffalo wings' weren't very impressive.  They were friend wing dings (expected) with the only seasoning simulating 'buffalo' being random splatters of hot sauce (weird).  They were a bit dry, as were the black eyed peas and rice, but again, I think it could have been due to poor timing...though not an excuse for the business.

For the "Chicken Two Ways" combo, I ordered the fried and baked chicken.  The fried chicken was pretty good and the baked chicken was seasoned well, and fall-off-the-bone tender, but far too greasy for me to enjoy completely.  I'm sure it would be perfect for a hang-over sufferer, but just didn't do it for this sober gal!  The mac n' cheese was pretty tasty also, not amazing, but at least not bland or lacking cheese as most places that attempt the dish.  The collards were a bit too sweet for my liking.

After tasting everything, I was super excited to dive into the peach cobbler.  I thought the filling was great, but the crust was too thick and therefore was a bit undercooked and doughy.

I will have to check Soul Spot out for lunch next time I find myself in Brooklyn.  Better review next time I hope!

Bar Breton, 254 Fifth Avenue, NYC

**Update** (4/2012)  Chef Cyril Renaud, former chef at Fleur de Sel, re-open Bar Breton as La Quenelle back in February 2012.  Some of the Bar Breton menu items will remain (especially lunch items), but the menu in general is more upscale!
 My review of Bar Breton is below.
_______________________________________________________________________________

Perfect Sunday brunch with a french twist:

I was very impressed with everything at Bar Breton from the interior design to Chef Renaud's menu which consisted of a beautifully-inspired modern twist on French cuisine.

The Decor declares: "Bienvenue! Bienvenue!"

Bar Breton's decor is simple,warm, and inviting.  Clean lines and dim upon entry where the hostess stand, parlor (bar), and two-top booths are located. The walls are lined with simple yet beautiful uniformed shaded lamps. The bar stools look like dark-stained beach wood, tying the rest of the restaurant's theme (in my view) together.  As you walk towards the back, the space opens up into a kind of summer beach house dining area feel with deep ocean blue walls, off white trim, white wood cupboards (filled with ceramic and glassware used by the staff) and other earthy-toned furnishings.  Diners at one particular corner table near the kitchen are privy to a faux fireplace...I imagine that patrons seated here may feel as if they're hosting an intimate, private  dinner or brunch party...very quaint.

Hanging in the center of the back dining area, looms a beautifully whimsical, avant garde chandelier made of classic colorful aperitif and other classic stemmed cocktail glasses (>200 I've heard!) I wish I could've captured a picture.

Image credit: http://www.celiacchicks.com/restaurants/new-york/glutenfree-restaurants-nyc-bar-breton.html

$25.00 Brunch with complimentary mimosa ($3 after the first) and my fave Le Paris (champagne topped with St. Germain!) Yummy!

We were offered a lovely fresh puff pastry (Brittany Pain au Chocolat)...airy and buttery pastry filled with rich, creamy dark chocolate.
 

The French toast was interesting, though my dining companion, a fan of classic (read: #boring) dishes was disappointed with the presentation.  I, on the other hand, was delighted!  This was NOT your average egg batter dipped soggy French toast.  This was thick cut with a crisp (well…toasted) exterior and sweet center drenched in a caramel ganache!   

Syrup? What’s that?  This toast was accompanied by fresh berries (black and blue), whipped cream, and a berry coulis.  I loved it!

Beware:  A side of apple smoked bacon here is massive!  Now I’m not sure if this was because my companion appeared to be dissatisfied with his meal so they piled it on, but in any event…who doesn’t love bacon? So I didn’t complain.

I love cauliflower, so I get excited when chefs offer creative dishes using this veg!  The Cauliflower gratin at BB did not disappoint.  It was served piping hot is a skillet!

The Hangar steak and eggs:  The eggs were creamy and fluffed and the steak cooked perfectly as ordered (medium rare), but the highlight of this dish was definitely the Yam and Potato gratin!! It was the perfect combination of sweet and savory!  The jus and pesto/herbal oil(?) drizzle went well with the entire dish.

All-in-all, I’ve already convinced a few friends in and around the city to check Bar Breton out!  I would love to visit again soon for dinner!

Bar Breton accepts reservations via Opentable.com

http://barbreton.com/

The Elephant Walk (Cambodian-French Fusion), 900 Beacon St Boston (Fenway/Brookline Area)

This brief review is well overdue.  I will also update very soon:


The Rouleaux were amazing and perfectly crisp & full of flavor with a beautiful crushed roasted peanut-laced dipping sauce.


The Somlah Machou was fresh and absolutely irresistible.


The Salade de Timbale au Chèvre was a perfect balance of sharp fried goat cheese and sweet Bartlett pears with a slice of grapefruit and balsamic reduction!


The Poulet à la Citronnelle and Pork tenderloin entrees and the mushroom+ stuffed puff pastry were disappointingly underwhelming...after which we brought home the passion fruit mousse and Le Péché au Chocolat.


The service is fantastic!  Sitting at the bar alone or with another person is great also.


The location was in walking distance from my home and the service was fantastic...I think I've found a new staple!


www.elephantwalk.com


The Elephant Walk also delivers through diningin.com and accepts reservations through www.opentable.com

Turks & Caicos...Eating my way from one Bay or Cay to the next!!! (Birthday #32)

Hemingway's Restaurant @ Sands Resort, Grace Bay

Hemingway's was my first treat upon landing in Provo.  The staff were fantastic!  Greeting all customers with smiles and cheerfulness.  The staff even gave out a few hugs here and there to the regulars (of which my host was one)!  Carolyn provided excellent, attentive service.

There were scattered showers, so we sat under the hut near the main bar.  However, umbrella-shaded tables were available out on the deck closer to the oceanfront.

I started with a rum punch which was refreshing after experiencing a 40 degree increase in temperature and huge spike in humidity.  I went with the Spinach salad with grilled chicken.  I mixed a bit of the raspberry vinaigrette (which was tasty but a bit too sweet for me) with their thick Caesar dressing.  The match worked!  The salad was topped with crumbled bleu cheese, red peppers, walnuts, pear, tomato, cucumbers, carrots, and a large grilled chicken breast.  It was fresh and delicious.  My friend enjoyed a salad as well, topped with jumbo grilled shrimp and a grilled chicken breast.  

DINNER:

Hemingway’s deck dining in the evening is divine.  Expect for one cute property cat to be your guest.  He may even climb a palm tree for your amusement!  The goat cheese and spinach stuffed chicken breast was fantastic.  Served over peas and rice and topped with a rosemary and herb infused champagne cream sauce, this meal is sure to please!  The Thai stir fry with chicken was o.k, but not spectacular.  Again, the rum punch is great, but will sneak up on you so sip slowly :0)

Dinner #2:
I enjoyed the curry chicken dish on my last evening in town.  The chicken was cooked perfectly and the curry sauce drizzled over it was divine.  This dish was served with steamed mixed veggies, peas and rice, and fried plantains.  I also tried a green "Rasta" cocktail which contained rum, pineapple juice, grenadine, and blue curacao.  Yummy!

Hemingway's quickly became a favorite dining destination for me, having dined there 3 times in 7 days!

Mango Reef Restaurant at The Alexandra Resort & Spa

The view at Mango Reef…AMAZING!!!  We dined on one of the decks overlooking the beautiful turquoise water.  Of course many of the properties I visited throughout the week provided beachside dining, yet the view at The Alexandra was spectacular!  The area was shaded by modern horizontal criss-crossed shades above the dining area versus more traditional individual umbrellas per table.   Service was quick and polite.  We started with the Sweet Chili wings which were crispy and perfectly sweet, spicy, and saucy.  My oxtails!!!!.....what can I say?  I was blown away!  Now, I’ve had oxtails before, but nothing like this dish.    The oxtails were huge and very meaty, bathed in an perfect thickened jus and vegetables (snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, and corn).  It was served with moist peas and rice which soaked up the jus nicely.  This large portion was perfect for splitting between lunch and dinner.  My friend had a shrimp pasta (fettuccine) with tomato-based sauce.  This dish was also available with a cream-based sauce. The shrimp were jumbo and the sauce was accented with fresh herbs.

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Luna Sea Pool Bar/Grill @ The Somerset Resort on Grace Bay

The sunken in pool bar was quaint, the service was so-so, and the grill behind the bar smelled as if it could use a good cleaning.  The smoke was a bit distracting when you’re out enjoying the fresh air. The conch in the fritters was a bit too chewy for my liking.  The fritters tasted microwaved vs. newly deep-fried.  I did enjoy the spicy remoulade dipping sauce.  The chicken club sandwich was good.  Not much could go wrong there.  The chick breast was moist and the shoe string fries served hot.  The menu here is pretty plain but I enjoyed my light lunch nonetheless.

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 Vino Tiempo Wine Bar, Grace Bay:

Came here for a late night cocktail and tapas with friends after a beautiful birthday party in the penthouse of the Seven Stars Resort, Grace Bay

Lobster empanadas!  So fantastic!  The crust was perfectly flaky and not greasy at all…the spicy lobster filling was fantastic….fresh and seasoned well.  The beef patties also delighted my palate; served with a sriracha-based dipping sauce, these really hit the spot.  The hummus was so-so, served with disappointingly cool and hard pita bread triangles which upon request were replaced with room temperature crostinis.  Maybe it was the late hour, but this was at least the only disappointment I experienced at Vino Tiempo.

Our service was pretty good and the crowd was upbeat with a good mix of ages.  Vino Tiempo is a great place for a small gathering with friends in a lounge setting with decent music.

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Parrot Cay (Private Island/Resort)

The boat ride over is a thrill in and of itself!  Passing other private islands on the way and having a personal tour guide (Thanks Captain Marley!) to key you in on the property owners such as Donna Karan, Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, etc. was a kick.

 

Lunch: Grilled spiced salmon over cauliflower, quinoa, and pomegranate tabbouleh with a smoky eggplant puree.  Fresh, fresh, fresh.  This was listed on the Spa Menu (along with other healthy choices such as: zucchini, tomato and pine nut “ricotta” lasagna, pumpkin and macadamian nut crusted pizzeta with mango, tomato, avocado, pineapple, and basil, and a 7 grain veggie burger with tomato and avocado salsa, sprouts, and spa slaw.

The grilled salmon was flavorful, moist, and delicate; perfectly cooked over quinoa, chopped cauliflower, pomegranate seeds, and few red onions.  The eggplant puree was wonderfully smoky and a perfect accompaniment to this super refreshing light dish.  In keeping with the refreshing lunch, I had a Cucumber-tini made with Absolut vodka and Sake; garnished with vodka-infused cucumbers.  Delightful.  I also had a bite of the veggie burger.  It had great flavor and texture on a soft bun.  The tomato + avocado salsa was a nice touch.

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 Opus Restaurant @ Ocean Club East Resort

Opus was a visually spectacular property with dim lighting and candles indoors and every tree wrapped in white lights outdoors.  The service was fantastic and consisted of mostly very young, very polite staff.  Opus features a live band on the outdoor patio nightly as well.  They offer complimentary bruschetta to start which is a nice change from your basic dinner roll or Italian bread.

The lobster fettuccine with tomato sauce was excellent.  The sauce was rich and full of chunky stewed tomatoes, red and green bell peppers, and sweet onion.  There was a generous portion of lobster meet throughout.  The dish could have had a bit more fettuccine, but all in all, this was a fantastic meal!

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Local Fare!

Middle Caicos Café:

This family owned café featured large portioned specials such as oxtails, curried chicken, pork or chicken souse and sides such as cole slaw, backed macaroni & cheese (Caribbean style of course).  I indulged on a baked chicken which was so tender and moist, it practically fell away from the bone; served with peas and rice and traditional Caribbean-style baked mac n’ cheese.  If you are not familiar with Caribbean-style baked mac n’cheese, you are in for a treat once you try it.  It’s nothing like your soupy American restaurant macaroni and cheese.  This mac n’ cheese has a bit more flair…featuring vegetables and herbs baked in. It usually is pretty dry, but not unappealingly so. 

I washed this meal down with Bambarra Rum (Reserve) with a splash of ginger ale.

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A Hole in the Wall

Another local’s watering hole worth diving into for lunch or dinner.  Here the oxtails were pretty good, but not nearly as flavorful as those at Mango Reef, nor as plentiful.  The peas and rice here were a bit dry, but not a terrible disappointment.  Service was slow, but polite once you received it.   The potato salad was creamy and potatoes cooked well.  It was actually pretty good!  My friend had the chicken soup, which was actually more like a chicken stew with its thick curried base, potatoes and dumplings.  I had to take an order to go!

They have a full bar at which local men and women were ordering red stripes and winding down from a hard day’s work.  They also have outdoor dining on an open deck area. The indoor dining boasts about ten to twelve tables and a flat screen in the corner.

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All-in-all TCI is a beautiful place to visit, if only to see the majestic turquoise ocean meeting the beautiful white sand!  

The people are kind and warm, the culture rich, the landscape breathtaking!

I want to thank my good friend and fabulous host Ms. Shenique Higgs, #1     professional make-up artist

(www.shequemakeup.com ) in TCI and abroad for showing me such a great time!  I'll be back!!!