Friday, December 30, 2016

Curry house CoCo

It was late and I needed nourishment asap! We went to the heart of Shinjuku and was able to get this bowl of delciousness to go. Only $10 or 1000 yen. The curry flavors were deep and rich.
After arriving back to the apartment the chicken was still moist and crispy. Don't ask me how that was accomplished but a must do if you visit Tokyo as there are several locations.

There's a place in San Francisco called Jap-a-curry that is similar but unfortunately I got sick from eating there and they dont fry the chicken or pork in panko crust.

Hands down the flavors are far more superior here.

Wednesday, December 28, 2016

1st Day in Shinjuku

Had a fun day getting my bearings together in Tokyo. Of course I found all of my French connections like Laduree and Le Genie. Then went on to find grocery stores both local and high end. Finally stopped and got yakitori and soba noodles in the middle of the neighborhood off the beaten path. Mmm mmm mmm mmm. Little Tokyo in LA and Japan town in San Jose I'm calling you out on the BS you serve, calling it Japanese food.

My only question is why do we only sell one type of Kit Kat in the states and Japan has a massive selection. Wth?! I'm jealous. Well it is yet to be determined what I'm missing out on. I purchased new items and will report back.

Sunday, December 18, 2016

JCB lounge in Yountville

Well you all know that Raymond is my new favorite Winery, especially the Red Room. However, if you are looking for a tasting room that stays open till 7 p.m. Raymond's little brother JCB is located in Yountville and boy is he sexy (reminds me of Harry of the Royal Family).

Honestly, the pictures speak for themselves. The decor is luxurious and decadent.
I love that he brings a little Paris to Napa Valley. Loooovvveedd it! Two snaps and a twirl.

My complimentary pour (since I am member) was exquisite. My favorite was the °13 which is the Bijoux or Cremant De Bourgogne Rose. As described in their literature, it is the epitome of femininity. I also enjoyed the Ice Wein. Taste just like a delicious warm apple. The things I will make with this dessert wine will be unimaginable.

Next Door is the tasting rooms Atelier where I was able to buy charcuterie and cheeses. I'll say they have the best of the best. They even carry my favorite tea's  (Maraige), mustards and butter cookies.

What a nice hidden gem and a real reason to go to Yountville.  I've never been a fan of the area. Now I am.

Sunday, December 11, 2016

Rosemary Garlic Croutons

1/2 French traditional baguette cut into pieces
1 garlic clove minced
2 tbsp quality olive oil
2 sprigs rosemary roughly chopped
Kosher salt / pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400 F°

Toss all ingredients in bowl. Arrange on cookie sheet.  Place in oven 7 to 10 minutes depending on your crunch level.

Bestia LA

Finally Finally after two years the stars have aligned and I was able to get in and dine at this wonderful establishment.

After studying the menu for two weeks the Agnolotti pasta wasn't on the menu but... that's okay.

We decided to bring our own beautiful bottle of the Dante from VJB. For those of you that have had the honor of tasting the 2013 batch you'll know what I'm talking about. The flavors have settled and it is smooth as ever.

We started off with the (perigod black truffle crostini) egg and truffles on toast. Simple yet luxurious.

Then, graduated to the Bone Marrow with an oscar the grouch green colored gnocchi.  Damn delicious and a must!

Then... the show stopper... Ribeye! I actually licked the plate. Tender, juicy, crust-a-lickious with a refreshing argula and radish salad.

Thought we were done but nope regressed (not progressed) to the Cavetti alla Norcina pasta. Pork sausage and truffles, how can you say no?! Another lickable plate. Someone owes me $10.

Couldn't leave the place without dessert. It was OUR birthday so we had the panna cotta and chocolate budino. Mmmm mmm mm mm mm. Now sing along with me. Flavor flaaaav.

Ambiance: a cool LA vibe with bomb ass music. They played a Tribe called quest, Slick Rick, all the 90s shizzz.
My only complaint, the seats hurt your ass. Im not a fan of communal seating and the look of it. Please LA... stop this damn trend. I had to put my coat under my butt to bare my dinner! If I pay $200 for my meal, my @$$ should not hurt.

Monday, December 5, 2016

Paella Party with my favorite people

I didn't fully make this gorgeous meal but did most of the prep. Chef Ryan Rodeno did his thing in Jasmine's Kitchen. Chef Nikita Leone supplied her beautiful Sangria.

One of the best night's ever !

Thanksgiving feast and decor

I cooked over a 2 day period and loved every minute of it. I made my famous hickory smoked fried turkey, apricot glazed ham, ham hock greens, shrimp and crab dressing (recipe courtesy of Chef Ryan Rondeno), Nikitas mac n cheese, mashed potatoes,  potato salad, cranberry relish and corn bread.

Desserts:
Sweet Potato cheese cake
Cranberry Lime pie
Vanilla Rum Ice Cream
Peach Cobbler

Friday, December 2, 2016

French Toast Casserole

https://www.google.com/amp/www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/upside-down-apple-french-toast-with-cranberries-and-pecans-recipe.amp.html