Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Outback Steakhouse
It is meh, with a side of giant freaking onions.
Don't waste your time with their uninspired food, and if for some reason you do end up there, take up as much space on the booth as you can so your server won't be able to sit down with you to take your order. It degrades us all.
Yowdah!
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Sushi Tango
First let me say that the name of this establishment was very misleading. Although there was sushi, there was very little tango to be had.
I suppose that wasn't really the point. I'll move on.
During the course of the meal I had a jar of hot sake with Chambord in it, which I though was quite good: it was a mix of traditional and non-traditional resulting in something better than either. I think this pretty much the best way to describe my experience with Sushi Tango in general.
Sushi Tango's menu offered a wide selection of fine fish dishes, and we decided to sample a variety of items. Off the top of my head I remember we had Unagi (eel), Red Snapper, several forms of tuna, an oyster thing, quail eggs, a strawberry-eel roll (sounds odd, but good), and a fried shrimp on a stick. There were probably several other fishes that entered my gullet that night that I do not remember.
The Unagi and shrimp were very good. Both were quite hot and delectable. The problem was that none of the other dishes seemed very well cooked. This surprised me greatly, I mean, I know that they were understaffed, but that hardly allows them to put raw fish out in front of us and expect no complaint! This is especially true for fish! Who knows what parasites are burrowing into the lining of the stomach!
...
Hold on.
...
I have recently been informed that this "sushi" is supposed to be largely uncooked.
Never mind. Everything was delicious anyway.
There were small imperfection in the meal unrelated to my bumpkinry, however. One of the Unagi dishes was a little undercooked, for real this time, and the bones weren't entirely gelled, and the red snapper tasted a little too much of lime. Overall the meal was delicious and I imagine these were merely minor flukes that will probably never happen to me again. Also, their tea tasted like old sock water, and I doubt that will change.
At some point we were served deep-fried fish heads. Those were good too. They were a nice surprise that really helped out the overall presentation of the meal.
The atmosphere of Sushi Tango was slightly incongruous with my expectations. First, the waiter was white. I forgive him of this, but next time it had better not happen. Equal opportunity employment is good, but it seems to lead to disappointment. Second, the music in the establishment was along the lines of "She Blinded Me with Science" and "Electric Boogaloo." Again, it just isn't right.
On one hand, little touches like this really made the whole place much more low-key and inviting compared to many up-scale sushi places. While many places have geisha serve you while every moment you expect to duck under the table to avoid a sword fight or gun play like some John Woo action flick, Sushi Tango offered much more comfortable environment. On the other hand, geisha and highly choreographed gun battles are welcome too.
Sushi Tango was reasonably priced while offering quality fish stuff. Go there for a relaxing night of raw fish on rice.
Website: Sushi Tango
P.S. Does anyone else think the guy on their logo look like something cold just got stuck up his ass?
Many minor edits have been made to this post when I re-read it and realized I was rambling slightly more incoherently than I typically go for.
I suppose that wasn't really the point. I'll move on.
During the course of the meal I had a jar of hot sake with Chambord in it, which I though was quite good: it was a mix of traditional and non-traditional resulting in something better than either. I think this pretty much the best way to describe my experience with Sushi Tango in general.
Sushi Tango's menu offered a wide selection of fine fish dishes, and we decided to sample a variety of items. Off the top of my head I remember we had Unagi (eel), Red Snapper, several forms of tuna, an oyster thing, quail eggs, a strawberry-eel roll (sounds odd, but good), and a fried shrimp on a stick. There were probably several other fishes that entered my gullet that night that I do not remember.
The Unagi and shrimp were very good. Both were quite hot and delectable. The problem was that none of the other dishes seemed very well cooked. This surprised me greatly, I mean, I know that they were understaffed, but that hardly allows them to put raw fish out in front of us and expect no complaint! This is especially true for fish! Who knows what parasites are burrowing into the lining of the stomach!
...
Hold on.
...
I have recently been informed that this "sushi" is supposed to be largely uncooked.
Never mind. Everything was delicious anyway.
There were small imperfection in the meal unrelated to my bumpkinry, however. One of the Unagi dishes was a little undercooked, for real this time, and the bones weren't entirely gelled, and the red snapper tasted a little too much of lime. Overall the meal was delicious and I imagine these were merely minor flukes that will probably never happen to me again. Also, their tea tasted like old sock water, and I doubt that will change.
At some point we were served deep-fried fish heads. Those were good too. They were a nice surprise that really helped out the overall presentation of the meal.
The atmosphere of Sushi Tango was slightly incongruous with my expectations. First, the waiter was white. I forgive him of this, but next time it had better not happen. Equal opportunity employment is good, but it seems to lead to disappointment. Second, the music in the establishment was along the lines of "She Blinded Me with Science" and "Electric Boogaloo." Again, it just isn't right.
On one hand, little touches like this really made the whole place much more low-key and inviting compared to many up-scale sushi places. While many places have geisha serve you while every moment you expect to duck under the table to avoid a sword fight or gun play like some John Woo action flick, Sushi Tango offered much more comfortable environment. On the other hand, geisha and highly choreographed gun battles are welcome too.
Sushi Tango was reasonably priced while offering quality fish stuff. Go there for a relaxing night of raw fish on rice.
Website: Sushi Tango
P.S. Does anyone else think the guy on their logo look like something cold just got stuck up his ass?
Many minor edits have been made to this post when I re-read it and realized I was rambling slightly more incoherently than I typically go for.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Krua Thailand, Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Riesling (2005), Hartford Zinfandel (2005), and Fritz Windisch Huxelrebe Beerenauslese (2003)
Krua Thailand has become one of my favorite local restaurants since I was first inspired to go there my an article in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine. Since then, I probably end up there an average of 1-2 times/month. The restaurant holds many memories for me of good food, conversations, and experiences.
At any rate, last night's visit was lovely, as usual. Krua Thailand is located on University Avenue in St. Paul, MN just a few blocks east of Dale. If you don't know what you're looking for, there's a good chance you'd miss the spot. The space itself is small, but smells wonderful and feels cozy. The walls are lined with decorations, antiques, and framed articles and accolades. Despite all of the positive press the restaurant has received, I have never been there at a time when it was any more than 1/2 full.
The food is absolutely divine. I have been told by people who would know that it is the only place in Minnesota to get truly authentic Thai food. These people have also said it is possibly the best Thai food in the US. If one is going there for the first time, the pork sausage is an absolute must as an appetizer. It is handmade by the family and is indescribably good. The Pad Thai is the best anywhere, and if you're a person who normally doesn't like curries, have theirs, you will like it. After that, keep going back and go through the rest of the menu items. I have not had a disappointing dish there yet.
Service at Krua Thailand is generally slow and casual, but for a place like this it really doesn't matter. The restaurant isn't trying to be anything but casual. Go there enough, and the service is very sweet and personable.
Krua Thailand does not have a liquor license but is very accommodating if you wish to bring your own bottles. Corkage is between USD 3-4 (for the entire table, not per bottle!) depending on how many bottles you bring. I personally love bringing in my own wines when I go there for a meal. It is not only more cost effective but it is much easier to cater to a group's tastes. It also makes a casual night out with friends feel even more personal.
Last night was a special night, a friend and I made a date to have a bottle of 2005 Hartford Zinfandel that had been gifted to us by a generous acquaintance we made last time we were at Krua together. Below are the reviews of the wines we had.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Riesling (2005)
Most everyone is familiar with the Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Riesling, it is a standard and was part of my "Value Wines" write-up. The Indian Wells line is simply a better Riesling, however normally a premium is charged. This wine happened to be on sale for US 10.99 at The Cellars Wines and Spirits in Roseville, MN. It normally sells for USD 18.99.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery is of course located in the Columbia Valley of Washington.
The nose is lightly floral with hints of sour apple. The body is tart and slightly astringent with melon at the tip of the tongue, more sour apple, and a long, pleasant, slightly nutty finish.
This is a better wine to pair with foods than the Columbia Valley, however I am not certain that I would be willing to pay full price for it when the Columbia Valley is regularly available for between USD 9-11. That said, it was a fantastic deal for the sale price and was perfect with spring rolls.
Hartford Zinfandel (2005)
This was the centerpiece wine of the meal. It was possibly the best red wine my companion or I had ever had. Hartford Family Winery is located in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County, California.
The nose was quite rich with dark fruit flavors, mainly plum and black currant. The body was also very rich. Flavors were fruit forward, with plum and blackberry. There were lots of tannins, but they were very soft. There was also a bit of chocolate in the body and spicy notes of black pepper, clove, and tobacco. The body was generally rich and full, my companion likened it to the feel one gets eating a flour-less cake. The finish was long and pleasant, with reminders of the body and a hint of coffee.
I don't know how much this wine was since it was a gift and I have no intention of looking up how much it was. I will say this though - it is probably more than I would normally spend on a bottle of wine, but worth it for a special occasion. It paired wonderfully with beef in sweet peanut red curry and a fried tilapia.
Fritz Windisch Huxelrebe Beerenauslese (2003)
Our dessert wine for the evening was a lovely little Beerenauslese. Beerenauslese is a German wine designation meaning the grapes must be individually hand-picked and the must weight must meet a designated minimum. Grapes are generally affected by Noble Rot which leaves us with an intensely sweet and flavorful juice.
The nose was surprisingly generic for the complexity in the body. The body gave flavors of lychee, melon, nectarine, dried pineapple, and sweetness of pure cane sugar. The finish reminded one of golden raisins.
This wine has a very low acid content. If one was just having one glass it would be fine, more than one the wine ends up slightly cloying. For USD 17.99 (500 ml) at The Cellars Wines and Spirits in Roseville, MN this is a wine to be sharing among a few friends rather than splitting between 2 people. It is also a great price for a Beerenauslese as they often command very high prices.
Websites:
http://www.ste-michelle.com/indian_wells_riesling.cfm
http://www.hartfordwines.com/wines/zinfandel/
At any rate, last night's visit was lovely, as usual. Krua Thailand is located on University Avenue in St. Paul, MN just a few blocks east of Dale. If you don't know what you're looking for, there's a good chance you'd miss the spot. The space itself is small, but smells wonderful and feels cozy. The walls are lined with decorations, antiques, and framed articles and accolades. Despite all of the positive press the restaurant has received, I have never been there at a time when it was any more than 1/2 full.
The food is absolutely divine. I have been told by people who would know that it is the only place in Minnesota to get truly authentic Thai food. These people have also said it is possibly the best Thai food in the US. If one is going there for the first time, the pork sausage is an absolute must as an appetizer. It is handmade by the family and is indescribably good. The Pad Thai is the best anywhere, and if you're a person who normally doesn't like curries, have theirs, you will like it. After that, keep going back and go through the rest of the menu items. I have not had a disappointing dish there yet.
Service at Krua Thailand is generally slow and casual, but for a place like this it really doesn't matter. The restaurant isn't trying to be anything but casual. Go there enough, and the service is very sweet and personable.
Krua Thailand does not have a liquor license but is very accommodating if you wish to bring your own bottles. Corkage is between USD 3-4 (for the entire table, not per bottle!) depending on how many bottles you bring. I personally love bringing in my own wines when I go there for a meal. It is not only more cost effective but it is much easier to cater to a group's tastes. It also makes a casual night out with friends feel even more personal.
Last night was a special night, a friend and I made a date to have a bottle of 2005 Hartford Zinfandel that had been gifted to us by a generous acquaintance we made last time we were at Krua together. Below are the reviews of the wines we had.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Riesling (2005)
Most everyone is familiar with the Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Riesling, it is a standard and was part of my "Value Wines" write-up. The Indian Wells line is simply a better Riesling, however normally a premium is charged. This wine happened to be on sale for US 10.99 at The Cellars Wines and Spirits in Roseville, MN. It normally sells for USD 18.99.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery is of course located in the Columbia Valley of Washington.
The nose is lightly floral with hints of sour apple. The body is tart and slightly astringent with melon at the tip of the tongue, more sour apple, and a long, pleasant, slightly nutty finish.
This is a better wine to pair with foods than the Columbia Valley, however I am not certain that I would be willing to pay full price for it when the Columbia Valley is regularly available for between USD 9-11. That said, it was a fantastic deal for the sale price and was perfect with spring rolls.
Hartford Zinfandel (2005)
This was the centerpiece wine of the meal. It was possibly the best red wine my companion or I had ever had. Hartford Family Winery is located in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County, California.
The nose was quite rich with dark fruit flavors, mainly plum and black currant. The body was also very rich. Flavors were fruit forward, with plum and blackberry. There were lots of tannins, but they were very soft. There was also a bit of chocolate in the body and spicy notes of black pepper, clove, and tobacco. The body was generally rich and full, my companion likened it to the feel one gets eating a flour-less cake. The finish was long and pleasant, with reminders of the body and a hint of coffee.
I don't know how much this wine was since it was a gift and I have no intention of looking up how much it was. I will say this though - it is probably more than I would normally spend on a bottle of wine, but worth it for a special occasion. It paired wonderfully with beef in sweet peanut red curry and a fried tilapia.
Fritz Windisch Huxelrebe Beerenauslese (2003)
Our dessert wine for the evening was a lovely little Beerenauslese. Beerenauslese is a German wine designation meaning the grapes must be individually hand-picked and the must weight must meet a designated minimum. Grapes are generally affected by Noble Rot which leaves us with an intensely sweet and flavorful juice.
The nose was surprisingly generic for the complexity in the body. The body gave flavors of lychee, melon, nectarine, dried pineapple, and sweetness of pure cane sugar. The finish reminded one of golden raisins.
This wine has a very low acid content. If one was just having one glass it would be fine, more than one the wine ends up slightly cloying. For USD 17.99 (500 ml) at The Cellars Wines and Spirits in Roseville, MN this is a wine to be sharing among a few friends rather than splitting between 2 people. It is also a great price for a Beerenauslese as they often command very high prices.
Websites:
http://www.ste-michelle.com/indian_wells_riesling.cfm
http://www.hartfordwines.com/wines/zinfandel/
Friday, November 16, 2007
Little Szechuan (2nd visit)
Went back to Little Szechuan, this time on a Thursday evening. There were still doing decent business but were not overly busy.
If you remember in my last write-up, service on a Friday night was absolutely awful. It was so awful in fact that I was considering not going back.
The food brought me back. This visit was sweet and sour scallops and beer duck. Both were phenomenal in their own ways.
I am happy to report that besides being slow, which one is used to on University Avenue, the service was fine.
This does bring up some thoughts though. Little Szechaun clearly wants to be considered a nicer restaurant than the others on the road. This is evident in the space, lighting, uniformed serving staff, and a liquor license. The level of service simply does not meet the seemingly high aspirations this place has. It causes a bit of dissonance, if the service is going to be as such I'd rather it was in a plainer looking space.
I will go back though to enjoy the outstanding food, it will just be during the week.
If you remember in my last write-up, service on a Friday night was absolutely awful. It was so awful in fact that I was considering not going back.
The food brought me back. This visit was sweet and sour scallops and beer duck. Both were phenomenal in their own ways.
I am happy to report that besides being slow, which one is used to on University Avenue, the service was fine.
This does bring up some thoughts though. Little Szechaun clearly wants to be considered a nicer restaurant than the others on the road. This is evident in the space, lighting, uniformed serving staff, and a liquor license. The level of service simply does not meet the seemingly high aspirations this place has. It causes a bit of dissonance, if the service is going to be as such I'd rather it was in a plainer looking space.
I will go back though to enjoy the outstanding food, it will just be during the week.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Value Wines
Enjoying wine should not be an expensive endeavor. However, finding decent wine for less than USD 10 is a bit difficult. Finding good wine for that price is even harder. There are plenty of choices if you're willing to spend a little bit of money and enough time tasting.
Always remember that wine pricing is capricious and that wine has a tendency to be a Veblen good.
I'm listing some of my value favorites. All of the wines below are very easy-drinking wines, good for both hobbyists and people who normally don't drink wine. Most of them are easy to pair with food and will also be fine on their own. They are listed in no particular order.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Riesling (2005):
This Riesling is an excellent value and a perennial standard. One will find this offered in many restaurants and it is available at almost any liquor store. The Cellars Wines & Spirits in Roseville, MN currently has it on sale for USD 8.99. It is a very easy white with a bit of sweetness and nice neutral fruit notes. One will easily pick up a bit of apple, pear, peach, and cinnamon in the nose and body. The finish is crisp due to a bit of acidity.
Columbia Crest Two Vines Gewurztraminer (2006)
A good Gewurztraminer is a wonderful thing. A bad Gewurz is one of the most awful things in the world of wine. One should be very cautious with lower-priced Gewurztraminer. This one is USD 6.99 at Lakeridge Liquors in St. Paul, MN and is lovely. The nose has a slight sweet floral character and the body has nice flavors of lychee, mixed fresh fruits, and cloves. The finish is very fruity and refreshing.
Trader Joe's Wines
The following wines are available exclusively at Trader Joe's. They are very well priced because they are sold exclusively at Trader Joe's. All of the prices are from the Maple Grove, MN location.
Lacheteau Vouvray (2006)
The absolute hands-down value king of Chenin Blanc. Available for USD 6.99. This vintage seems to taste just below a demi-sec in residual sugar. There is enough acid to balance out the sugar and make it flexible to pair with various foods. The best pairings would be with spicy foods. The nose is not very complex, mainly apple and honey. The body gives one apple, lime, honey, and a bit of pineapple. The finish is a bit sweet but not cloying.
Black Mountain Pinot Noir (2005)
Due to the "Sideways effect" Pinot Noirs are now typically quite expensive and dare I say overpriced. This one is sold for USD 4.99 and is wonderful. There are definitely better Pinots available, but not for this price. The nose is quite generic, but the body has nice rich dark fruit flavors attached to it with very soft tannins. The finish is short and easy.
Schloss Biebrich Sekt (NV)
"NV" means non-vintage. This particular sparkler is quite nice. Available for USD 5.99, it is great before a meal. It is quite bubbly compared to other sparkling wines, but for whatever reason it still drinks quite easily. The nose is fresh, slightly floral and mineral. The body is just off-dry and will give a primary initial hint of apple-pear followed by the flowers and minerals again.
Charles Shaw Wines (from Trader Joe's)
Yes, "Two-Buck-Chuck". In Minnesota, it is "Three-Buck-Chuck". It makes no difference, there are some excellent wines to be had from Charles Shaw. Notice that I did not say excellent values, excellent wines - period. Don't knock this stuff until you have tried it. It is important to note that due to the high volume of Charles Shaw Wine, there may be quite a bit of bottle variation. All are priced at USD 2.99 in Minnesota.
Charles Shaw Chardonnay (2005)
This is the one you've read about. Double Gold Medal and Best Chardonnay from California at the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition. Whether or not it was worthy of this award I do not know. What I do know is that I don't ordinarily like Chardonnays and I liked this one. The nose was very neutral, but the body was buttery, crisp, refreshingly citrusy, and has just enough oak to remind one it was a Chardonnay but not too much where it overpowered the flavor.
Charles Shaw Sauvignon Blanc (2006)
This is a nice easy choice if you want a Sauvignon Blanc but do not feel like paying the usual prices for other California or French Sauvignon Blancs. The nose is lightly floral and citrusy. The body is generically citrusy and dry with a hint of pineapple flavor. It finishes quickly, but pleasantly. There is a slight bit of grass in the body, but not enough to ruin it, especially for the price.
Charles Shaw Shiraz (2005)
This is a fine value red. Not very complex at all, but has a bit of dark fruit and some pepper and spice. It is quite simply a very easy drinking red that could go with just about anything you'd want to have a red wine with. I personally like this one with beef jerky. Don't bother asking for an explanation, it's just a nice way to finish an evening.
Websites:
http://www.ste-michelle.com/Sub_ColumbiaValleyVineyards.cfm
http://www.columbia-crest.com/wines_two.cfm
http://www.traderjoes.com/
Always remember that wine pricing is capricious and that wine has a tendency to be a Veblen good.
I'm listing some of my value favorites. All of the wines below are very easy-drinking wines, good for both hobbyists and people who normally don't drink wine. Most of them are easy to pair with food and will also be fine on their own. They are listed in no particular order.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Riesling (2005):
This Riesling is an excellent value and a perennial standard. One will find this offered in many restaurants and it is available at almost any liquor store. The Cellars Wines & Spirits in Roseville, MN currently has it on sale for USD 8.99. It is a very easy white with a bit of sweetness and nice neutral fruit notes. One will easily pick up a bit of apple, pear, peach, and cinnamon in the nose and body. The finish is crisp due to a bit of acidity.
Columbia Crest Two Vines Gewurztraminer (2006)
A good Gewurztraminer is a wonderful thing. A bad Gewurz is one of the most awful things in the world of wine. One should be very cautious with lower-priced Gewurztraminer. This one is USD 6.99 at Lakeridge Liquors in St. Paul, MN and is lovely. The nose has a slight sweet floral character and the body has nice flavors of lychee, mixed fresh fruits, and cloves. The finish is very fruity and refreshing.
Trader Joe's Wines
The following wines are available exclusively at Trader Joe's. They are very well priced because they are sold exclusively at Trader Joe's. All of the prices are from the Maple Grove, MN location.
Lacheteau Vouvray (2006)
The absolute hands-down value king of Chenin Blanc. Available for USD 6.99. This vintage seems to taste just below a demi-sec in residual sugar. There is enough acid to balance out the sugar and make it flexible to pair with various foods. The best pairings would be with spicy foods. The nose is not very complex, mainly apple and honey. The body gives one apple, lime, honey, and a bit of pineapple. The finish is a bit sweet but not cloying.
Black Mountain Pinot Noir (2005)
Due to the "Sideways effect" Pinot Noirs are now typically quite expensive and dare I say overpriced. This one is sold for USD 4.99 and is wonderful. There are definitely better Pinots available, but not for this price. The nose is quite generic, but the body has nice rich dark fruit flavors attached to it with very soft tannins. The finish is short and easy.
Schloss Biebrich Sekt (NV)
"NV" means non-vintage. This particular sparkler is quite nice. Available for USD 5.99, it is great before a meal. It is quite bubbly compared to other sparkling wines, but for whatever reason it still drinks quite easily. The nose is fresh, slightly floral and mineral. The body is just off-dry and will give a primary initial hint of apple-pear followed by the flowers and minerals again.
Charles Shaw Wines (from Trader Joe's)
Yes, "Two-Buck-Chuck". In Minnesota, it is "Three-Buck-Chuck". It makes no difference, there are some excellent wines to be had from Charles Shaw. Notice that I did not say excellent values, excellent wines - period. Don't knock this stuff until you have tried it. It is important to note that due to the high volume of Charles Shaw Wine, there may be quite a bit of bottle variation. All are priced at USD 2.99 in Minnesota.
Charles Shaw Chardonnay (2005)
This is the one you've read about. Double Gold Medal and Best Chardonnay from California at the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition. Whether or not it was worthy of this award I do not know. What I do know is that I don't ordinarily like Chardonnays and I liked this one. The nose was very neutral, but the body was buttery, crisp, refreshingly citrusy, and has just enough oak to remind one it was a Chardonnay but not too much where it overpowered the flavor.
Charles Shaw Sauvignon Blanc (2006)
This is a nice easy choice if you want a Sauvignon Blanc but do not feel like paying the usual prices for other California or French Sauvignon Blancs. The nose is lightly floral and citrusy. The body is generically citrusy and dry with a hint of pineapple flavor. It finishes quickly, but pleasantly. There is a slight bit of grass in the body, but not enough to ruin it, especially for the price.
Charles Shaw Shiraz (2005)
This is a fine value red. Not very complex at all, but has a bit of dark fruit and some pepper and spice. It is quite simply a very easy drinking red that could go with just about anything you'd want to have a red wine with. I personally like this one with beef jerky. Don't bother asking for an explanation, it's just a nice way to finish an evening.
Websites:
http://www.ste-michelle.com/Sub_ColumbiaValleyVineyards.cfm
http://www.columbia-crest.com/wines_two.cfm
http://www.traderjoes.com/
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Taste of Scandinavia Bakery and Cafe
I really needed some lutefisk.
No, that's not true at all.
I was just hungry in general, but by the time I realized that I had no actual interest in lutefisk I was already at the local Scandinavian food-hole with the cashier staring at me.
Thinking quickly I asked for the soup of the day, coffee, and a ginger cookie I could see out of the corner of my eye in their baked goods shelves.
Instead, my companion took the fall and ate the lutefisk. He was sure that someone who likes lutefisk would have liked it, but he did not. We will never know if it was good or bad lutefisk because, really, we don't know what rotting fish was supposed to taste like.
On the other hand, the chicken-wild rice soup I had was rather tasty, and the ginger cookie was appropriately gingery and cookie-like.
Overall I'd say that the meal was alright, but I'm left with the lingering feeling that I should have just kept my $8 and spent it somewhere else.
To confirm this, I returned later and had Swedish pancakes. This meal was also lackluster, although it was slathered with enough whipped cream and berries to make it passable.
So far, it appears that, at least at this location, it would be wise to stick to the baked goods offered and avoid ordering from the grill. That seems to be the Taste of Scandinavia's strong suit and primary purpose, and that element of their selection lives up to a much higher standard.
Also the chairs in the forward section of the store are really uncomfortable. Sit in the back.
Website: http://www.tasteofscandinavia.com/
No, that's not true at all.
I was just hungry in general, but by the time I realized that I had no actual interest in lutefisk I was already at the local Scandinavian food-hole with the cashier staring at me.
Thinking quickly I asked for the soup of the day, coffee, and a ginger cookie I could see out of the corner of my eye in their baked goods shelves.
Instead, my companion took the fall and ate the lutefisk. He was sure that someone who likes lutefisk would have liked it, but he did not. We will never know if it was good or bad lutefisk because, really, we don't know what rotting fish was supposed to taste like.
On the other hand, the chicken-wild rice soup I had was rather tasty, and the ginger cookie was appropriately gingery and cookie-like.
Overall I'd say that the meal was alright, but I'm left with the lingering feeling that I should have just kept my $8 and spent it somewhere else.
To confirm this, I returned later and had Swedish pancakes. This meal was also lackluster, although it was slathered with enough whipped cream and berries to make it passable.
So far, it appears that, at least at this location, it would be wise to stick to the baked goods offered and avoid ordering from the grill. That seems to be the Taste of Scandinavia's strong suit and primary purpose, and that element of their selection lives up to a much higher standard.
Also the chairs in the forward section of the store are really uncomfortable. Sit in the back.
Website: http://www.tasteofscandinavia.com/
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Woop Woop Shiraz (2006)
The 2003 Woop Woop Shiraz was the first wine I ever liked, the wine that made me realize I may actually start enjoying wine. I had to go through quite a few before I got to that one. Up until a few weeks ago, I had not seen it anywhere else but Morris. It remains a good value for USD 10.99 at Lakeridge Liquors in St. Paul, MN.
At any rate, it remains a good, medium-bodied red wine. I'm not sure if this isn't as good a vintage or my palate has simply improved, but this bottle didn't move me as much as the 2003.
The nose is not too complex, mainly oak with a hint of cedar, and an unfortunate whiff of latex. While this Syrah doesn't have any more alcohol than any other wine, it smells hot, the alcohol that comes off is almost more reminiscent of a Zinfandel than a typical Syrah.
The body was much better, with green and black peppers, mixed berries, and a very subtle wintergreen wrapped up in a long, pleasant finish.
I was in charge of the wine selection for the evening and the chefs did not really specify what they were cooking, so this seemed like a safe choice and it was with pork enchiladas. Off-hand I couldn't think of an absolutely ideal pairing. There are a few things you should know though. First, it is worth the extra few dollars over the Charles Shaw and Black Mountain Syrahs for the complexity in the body. Second, Woop Woop is now bottling their wines with a rather interesting LDPE closure. This one was made completely of LDPE. Many synthetic corks have an LDPE core surrounded by a more inert material such polyurethane. It is not terribly easy to remove and when it does, make sure you are holding the bottle tight lest the closure go one way and the bottle another. I am also wondering if the latex on the nose was from the LDPE leeching into the wine. This would not be a remote possibility, I was surprised they didn't use a more inert material.
Website: http://www.woopwoop.com.au/about/ .
At any rate, it remains a good, medium-bodied red wine. I'm not sure if this isn't as good a vintage or my palate has simply improved, but this bottle didn't move me as much as the 2003.
The nose is not too complex, mainly oak with a hint of cedar, and an unfortunate whiff of latex. While this Syrah doesn't have any more alcohol than any other wine, it smells hot, the alcohol that comes off is almost more reminiscent of a Zinfandel than a typical Syrah.
The body was much better, with green and black peppers, mixed berries, and a very subtle wintergreen wrapped up in a long, pleasant finish.
I was in charge of the wine selection for the evening and the chefs did not really specify what they were cooking, so this seemed like a safe choice and it was with pork enchiladas. Off-hand I couldn't think of an absolutely ideal pairing. There are a few things you should know though. First, it is worth the extra few dollars over the Charles Shaw and Black Mountain Syrahs for the complexity in the body. Second, Woop Woop is now bottling their wines with a rather interesting LDPE closure. This one was made completely of LDPE. Many synthetic corks have an LDPE core surrounded by a more inert material such polyurethane. It is not terribly easy to remove and when it does, make sure you are holding the bottle tight lest the closure go one way and the bottle another. I am also wondering if the latex on the nose was from the LDPE leeching into the wine. This would not be a remote possibility, I was surprised they didn't use a more inert material.
Website: http://www.woopwoop.com.au/about/ .
Monday, November 5, 2007
Brine's Bar and Grill
Brine's Bar and Grill located in Stillwater Minnesota is one of my very favorite places to eat. While its menu is very German-American and quite simple, The food they serve is very good and very reasonable, wallet-wise.
Stillwater is an old city, the first city in Minnesota actually, they celebrate their sesquicentennial next year. Brine's is located in a 137 year old building, giving it a quaint yet distinguished look. The restaurant itself is also old, as far as restaurants in the area go, at 58 years. It began as a butcher shop, (and continues today at a location on the south hill of Stillwater) and the history of good cuts of meat has propelled this restaurant to make fine burgers and sandwiches.
My usual fare at Brines is the Mushroom-Swiss burger, a signature item they make to perfection. The burger itself costs around $4.00, with a choice of fries, salad or soup for a nominal extra fee. The normal cost of an entire meal is just under $8.00. They serve a variety of beers, both local and imports, have an all day salad bar, and make some very good soups. (I tried their beer-cheese the other day, and I could really smell the lager coming off of it.)
If you're looking for cheap, but really good American fare, Brine's is the place to be. There are some fancier restaurants in downtown Stillwater, which shall be written up soon I am sure, (among which are La Luna Rosa and the Dock Cafe) but Brine's is an establishment not to be missed on your day trip to Stillwater.
Here is their website for your convenience
Stillwater is an old city, the first city in Minnesota actually, they celebrate their sesquicentennial next year. Brine's is located in a 137 year old building, giving it a quaint yet distinguished look. The restaurant itself is also old, as far as restaurants in the area go, at 58 years. It began as a butcher shop, (and continues today at a location on the south hill of Stillwater) and the history of good cuts of meat has propelled this restaurant to make fine burgers and sandwiches.
My usual fare at Brines is the Mushroom-Swiss burger, a signature item they make to perfection. The burger itself costs around $4.00, with a choice of fries, salad or soup for a nominal extra fee. The normal cost of an entire meal is just under $8.00. They serve a variety of beers, both local and imports, have an all day salad bar, and make some very good soups. (I tried their beer-cheese the other day, and I could really smell the lager coming off of it.)
If you're looking for cheap, but really good American fare, Brine's is the place to be. There are some fancier restaurants in downtown Stillwater, which shall be written up soon I am sure, (among which are La Luna Rosa and the Dock Cafe) but Brine's is an establishment not to be missed on your day trip to Stillwater.
Here is their website for your convenience
Sunday, November 4, 2007
This Bit of Gum I Found In My Pocket
Recently I have found a small square with a waxy texture in my pocket. It is a light green color, and not quite the dimensions of a standard chiclet, but that may be because of the geologic strain it has undergone in my trousers.
Having nothing better to do, I put it in my mouth.
Hmm... Bad choice.
It has a light peppermint flavor which is horribly marred by a particular denim lint overtone. Both of these flavors pass quickly, which is quite lucky for me, I am certain.
The gum itself is too small of a piece to give any real satisfaction in mastication. I imagine if I knew where the rest of the packet was I might smush all of the pieces together to make a respectable wad, but alas, that is not the case.
Overall I an nonplussed with my recent discovery, and would have very much preferred it to have been a button, or perhaps a dime. www.gleegum.com
Having nothing better to do, I put it in my mouth.
Hmm... Bad choice.
It has a light peppermint flavor which is horribly marred by a particular denim lint overtone. Both of these flavors pass quickly, which is quite lucky for me, I am certain.
The gum itself is too small of a piece to give any real satisfaction in mastication. I imagine if I knew where the rest of the packet was I might smush all of the pieces together to make a respectable wad, but alas, that is not the case.
Overall I an nonplussed with my recent discovery, and would have very much preferred it to have been a button, or perhaps a dime. www.gleegum.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
