Cafe du Parc

Photo Credit: Intercontinental Hotels

Once I was done eating my way through New York City, I continued my trek through the northeast by visiting our nation's capital: Washington D.C. There were a few places here I was dying to sink my teeth into.  D.C. has been home to leaders of the organic and sustainable movements for quite some time, and is quickly becoming a part of today's stylish dining scene; featuring a number of award winning chefs and an emphasis on fresh local cuisine.



After a day of historical exploring, I wanted to stay in the heart of the city for my dinner adventure so I walked on over to the Willard InterContinental Hotel to check out a french bistro there that sounded interesting: Cafe du Parc, located at 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue. I bet you're thinking isn't that the same avenue the White House is on? The answer is yes. Cafe du Parc is located very close to the White House over looking Pershing Park, as well as several national monuments and the downtown theatre district.

Hibiscus Champagne

Cafe du Parc is under the direction of three star Michelin Chef Antoine Westermann, one of the world's most admired and celebrated chefs. It has two floors indoors and offers outdoor seating as well. The first floor is a cafe during the day, (serving delightful pastries in between meals) and a wine bar at night. The second floor offers regional French favorites in a beautiful, elegant setting. This is where my adventure took place. From the moment we walked in, the service was superb. Our waiter, Tufan Kaya, took the time to explain each item we were interested in on the menu, as well as to provide suggestions based on our preferences. I was in heaven! Since it had been a very hot day (remember the heat wave that affected the northeast recently?) I wanted something refreshing. Tufan recommended I try a French cocktail that was both sweet as well as cooling: The Hibiscus Champagne. I loved it! There was a wild hibiscus flower sitting in the bottom of the champagne flute, with Heidsieck bubbling all around it. As the champagne fizzled, the hibiscus flower opened up and bloomed in my glass. It had to be one of the prettiest and most original cocktails I have sipped.

Assiette de Cochonnailles

Gateau de Crabe Facon "Westermann"

Excited, we then started off our meal with the Assiette de Cochonnailles, which loosely translated means "plate of pork meat". This was a charcuterie of sorts featuring pork rilletes, an impressive pork terrine, shaved Serrano ham, and dry salami; served with an assortment of house-made pickled vegetables and country toast. Scrumptious! The serrano ham and the dry salami were excellent, but it was the pork terrine and the the pork rilletes that made me swoon. The texture and flavor was perfect in both. The terrine was rich and delicate at the same time; while the amazing combination of meat and spices in the rilletes carried its full, bold taste to the tongue. It was the perfect start to our meal. Next, we ordered the Gateau de Crabe Facon "Westermann", which is a crabcake created "Westermann's Way". The crabmeat was flavorful and light and it was served with an appetizing remoulade sauce and a mixed green salad. Delicious!

Coquilles Saint-Jacques

NY Steak Frites

Between the exquisite food and the attentive service, we were getting more delighted by the minute.  We ordered our first entree: the Coquilles Saint-Jacques. These were seared scallops, served on potato confit, with herb puree and preserved lemon emulsion. The scallops were tender, with a sweet taste and a slightly creamy texture. They practically melted in my mouth. The potato confit had a succulent, buttery flavor that was outrageous. Our second entree was the Pan seared NY Steak Frites, served with Bearnaise Sauce. Cooked to perfection, the steak was juicy and well-seasoned while the fries were thick and crispy. The creamy smoothness of the Bearnaise Sauce made it the perfect complement to the steak and we embellished.

Grilled Gruyere Sandwich Sandwich

By the way, if you have little ones and you're wondering if there is something here for them; there is! Cafe du Parc offers an extensive children's menu which includes items such as Fresh Pasta with Parmesan Cheese and a Small Ground Beef Steak. It also features an all-time favorite dish: Grilled Gruyere Cheese Sandwich with hand-cut fries - the French way. It was both pleasing to the eye as well as to the the palate (for both children and those finicky child-like eaters).

Gateau Chaud au Chocolate

Glace a la vanille

I just wanted the adventure to continue all night long. When the dessert menu came, we were ready for more.  We ordered the Gateau Chaud au Chocolate avec noix de Pecan. (Can you tell I just loved practicing my French) This was a decadent Chocolate Pecan Brownie with Chocolate Ganache, served with Coffee Granita layered with Vanilla Mousse. Do I even have to say more? The refreshing Coffee Granita went so deliciously well with the moist Chocolate brownie that words are not enough to describe its richness. To make the sweetness linger just a few moments more, we also ordered the Glace a la vanille, which simply means vanilla ice-cream. Only, this was so much more. The vanilla ice-cream was blended with a crunchy caramel sauce, and topped with a bittersweet warm chocolate delight. Get the picture? It was an evening in Paris!

I venture to say this will be a dinner difficult to top. Cafe du Parc is a gem in the heart of D.C. and if you're making a trip to the area, you must stop by and indulge in their food, their stellar service and the French ambiance it envelopes you in. For more information, you can contact them at 202-942-7000 or visit them online at http://cafeduparc.com/.

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Cheeseburger Baby

A few months ago, I was one of the lucky judges at a burger competition at Palmetto Bay Village Center. (Read about it at Battle of the Burgers at Palmetto Bay Village Center.) Over eight food trucks were serving up some original patties and we had to pick the tastiest one. This is where I first tried the delicious burger of the first place winner: Cheeseburger Baby. It turned out, that not only do they have a food truck, but they are also the oldest burger joint in South Beach,  located at 1505 Washington Avenue.


On a nice, sunny Miami afternoon I had a craving for a juicy burger. I figured I'd repeat the awesome experience I had at Palmetto Bay Village Center by visiting Cheeseburger Baby; this time at their restaurant on the beach. Meeting up with an old friend I hadn't seen in years, we ventured to the burger staple that is open daily till dawn. When you get a first look at the place, you're not really sure what to expect. Think hole-in-the-wall meets Hip-Hop DJ booth. It is small but cozy, with a friendly staff and a counter facing the open grill, where you can see your food being prepared. I learned later that they also have a backyard patio, but for lunch, we sat inside.

1/2 lb. Bacon Cheeseburger

Cheddar Cheese Fries

I already knew what I wanted to have: their award-winning 1/2 lb. Bacon Cheeseburger. All their burgers are served with only 100% Angus beef so I was excited to the core. After a few minutes, out came this juicy, boldly-flavored, hunka meat on a fresh, tasty bun, served with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and chopped kosher pickles. Oh yeah baby, it was good! Of course, I had seen a couple of pictures of their cheese fries and I figured what the heck? I have an elliptical at home. So I ordered their Cheddar Cheese Fries and forgot all else. I can still taste them. Ladies and gentlemen, these fries are not topped with Cheese Wiz. They were bathed in real cheddar cheese; melted to perfection. Awesome!

Chicken Philly Wrap

Close-up of Chicken Philly Wrap

Onion Rings

To offset my reckless abandonment, my friend ordered a healthier alternative. She had the Chicken Philly Wrap. It was a nice combination of seasoned shredded chicken mixed with grilled peppers, grilled onions, and choice of cheese; topped with lettuce and tomatoes. Great taste without the guilt! Of course, she couldn't resist, and ordered a side of their Onion Rings. They were delicious, with a great balance of onion flavor and crispy coating. It goes without saying that she'll be joining me on the elliptical next week.

I noticed that there are several options on the menu for vegetarians, including a veggie burger, veggie grilled cheese sandwich and a veggie sandwich. It is great to know because I'll be making a visit back on a Meatless Monday to check that out. If you get a craving for a delicious burger that will make your eyelids roll back, make your way to Cheeseburger Baby on the beach, or keep an eye out for their food truck. You live on the beach but don't feel like driving anywhere? Relax, pick up your phone and call them. They deliver and it's free!  For more information, you can contact Cheeseburger Baby at 305-531-7300 or visit them online at http://www.cheeseburgerbaby.net/index.html.

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Ellen's Stardust Diner

To wind down my adventures through NYC, I decided to head over to a place that was animated, fun and entertaining. Where can you find the next big Broadway star singing "Mama Mia" while playing drums on your head with a pack of straws? If you guessed Ellen's Stardust Diner, then you're right. Founded in 1987 and located in the heart of Times Square at 1650 Broadway,  it is the place to go to liven your spirits and enjoy a good time surrounded by an ever popular singing wait staff. They are quite impressive! As a matter of fact, just about every month a couple of them actually go on to perform in Broadway shows.


I do have to give you one caveat. Come here for the fun - not for the food. Other than the burger, which is probably your best choice, I haven't sampled anything spectacular on their menu. Serving primarily comfort food, the names of the dishes are as original as the diner itself, but don't expect to be wowed in taste.





As you walk into the retro-styled diner, you'll find the wait staff dressed in impromptu costumes and singing both oldies as well as current top hits. They stand on counters behind you, sit next to you, and even pick some brave volunteers to participate in the fun. Personally, I had my head used as a snare drum to the tune of  a Jersey Boys single.  I loved it!

Empanada Sampler

We started off with the Empanada Sampler, which were homemade beef and chicken empanadas, served with mild and spicy dipping sauces. The menu described them as "Peruvian" style but I'm not really sure what that meant. They were average and nothing to write home about. I'd say of the two, I probably preferred the meat, but the filling wasn't too seasoned in either one.

Be Bop a Lula Burger

We then ordered the Be Bop a Lula Burger, a thick patty served on a homemade bun and topped with American Cheese, bacon, grilled onions, sauteed mushrooms, lettuce and tomatoes. It came with a side of crispy and delicious waffle fries and a pickle.  Things momentarily looked up in the culinary department. The patty was juicy and flavorful and the toppings went well together.

Meatloaf

I became bold and decided I wanted to sample some more of their comfort food. I saw the Meatloaf on their menu and it was described as "the best in town". Smothered in "Mom's gravy", it was served with mashed potatoes and the night's vegetables. Since I was singing and taking a musical stroll through the 80's, I figured, let's do it. The minute the plate I arrived, I knew I was in for a disappointment. The meatloaf looked so tough, I was hesitant to try it. I did and unfortunately, I was right. It was overcooked and dry, with very little flavor. I ate about half and just settled for the mashed potatoes and vegetables. I definitely would not order the meatloaf here again and I would venture to say it is not the best in town.


We decided to pass on the dessert this time, although I have to say I've eaten dessert here before and it's been good. We focused on enjoying the fun and the singers and bypass any more food. Despite the less-than-fantastic cuisine, I find Ellen's Stardust Diner is a must-try at least once when you're in New York simply for the experience. Stick to the burgers or maybe some desserts if you're looking to have a better meal as you kick back with the musical antics.  If nothing else, you'll walk out giddy and humming familiar tunes after spending some time in the 1950's-themed diner filled with wall-to-wall nostalgic memorabilia. For more information, you can contact them at (212) 956-5151 or visit them online at http://www.ellensstardustdiner.com/.

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EDGE Steak & Bar - Brunch

About a month ago, I wrote a post on a somewhat new but increasingly popular restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel in Brickell: EDGE Steak & Bar, located at 1435 Brickell Avenue. I had an incredible dinner adventure there, and was looking forward to returning to try their Sunday Brunch; a lavish buffet-style brunch promising a whimsical twist on the food truck frenzy. How, you ask? In addition to the traditional brunch offerings, such as omelette and carving stations, there would also be innovative stops simulating food trucks serving Mexican favorites, Cuban must-haves and Peruvian seafood. The brunch also included unlimited Mimosas and Build-Your-Own Bloody Marys. While I love all kinds of Sunday Brunches, I am a devoted fan of buffet brunches, because you can sample a wider selection of items for one price. Back to EDGE I went...

Mimosas and Bloody Marys

Jumbo Shrimp

East Coast Oysters

I was excited the moment we arrived; spotting the large table right in front of the entrance, where a great number of the buffet items were aesthetically placed. Being the seafood lover that I am, I instantaneously went to look for the Peruvian Seafood Station mentioned on their website, where I would find the shrimp, oysters, crab claws and ahi tuna tartare. I noticed there wasn't a specific station for the seafood per se, but rather platters with these items were placed on the main table. The Jumbo Shrimp and Shucked East Coast Oysters were the first to call my name. I piled some of those on my plate and went to town. They were very good. The shrimp were plump, juicy and tender and the oysters were somewhat salty with a soft texture and a slightly bitter finish. I then looked around for their Ahi Tuna Tartare, since you know me and my love for the Chicken of the Sea. Unfortunately, I never found it. I did find the crab claws but I honestly wasn't thrilled about them.  They were Jonah crab claws and I am not particularly fond of those, as they are not as meaty or flavorful as their counterparts.

Jonah Crab Claws

Whole Red Snapper

Signature House Kettle Chips

Still having a world of choices to explore, I continued sampling the items beautifully displayed on the main table. From the delicious variety of Antipasti, to the Savory Cheeses and the Sweet Pea Parmesan Bruschettas, it was a whirlwind of titillating deliciousness. Continuing over to the Hot Food Station I picked up some Crispy Local Whole Red Snapper with Florida Mango Salsa. Scrumptious! The Carving Station also offered the Chef's prime choice cut of the week, along with their famous Cutting Edge Rub. I tried some Mini EDGE Burgers with their signature House Kettle Chips, which took me back to my outstanding first visit there.

Say hello to my little friend...

Viva La Mexico! Station

Cuban Food Truck Station

What made this brunch unique to me, though, was the originality of their stations. They have two fun ones that I've never seen in any other brunch. The Viva La Mexico! station decorated like a Mexican food truck and featuring Tacos with all the fixings; and the Cuban Food Truck, showcasing....are you a ready...a Roast Suckling Pig.  That was impressive! Not only because it looked awesome, but because it was perfectly roasted - and if you're Cuban or love Cuban food, you know what I mean: juicy and flavorful on the inside, with a crispy skin on the outside. I thought it was Noche Buena in July. I can tell you that when I posted the picture of the suckling pig on my Facebook page, I got a lot of responses asking me if the pig was a regular item on the Sunday Brunch menu; even from out-of-towners planning on visiting Miami.

Seafood Paella

Cotton Candy! Frozen Yogurt!

Wanting to sample more, I tried the Seafood Paella. It was fantastic; standing out with its juicy layer of flavors and medley of seafood. Over on the other side, chefs were preparing omelettes, and there was an array of fresh fruit to select from. By the way, they have a lot of options available for the little guys, so you don't have to leave them at home. There is a special menu for kids offering all of their favorites along with a fun station where the young (and young at heart) can grab cotton candy, frozen yogurt or lemonade.

Red Velvet Shortcake

Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake

Dessert Table

Finally, I made my way over to the desserts. I could feel the sugar rush just from looking at them. Needless to say I tried quite a few and my favorites were the Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake (Is that a surprise?) the Flan Floating Island, and the Original Tres Leches. 

We really enjoyed trying out the brunch at EDGE Steak & Bar. Chef Aaron Brooks' talented and dedicated hand was evident in the dishes and they really went a cut above to make the presentation unique. This time around, the service wasn't as memorable as the last time but the elegant ambiance of the place still shone through.

For more information on the Sunday Brunch at EDGE, you can contact them at 305-381-3190 or visit them online at http://www.edgerestaurantmiami.com/menus/sunday_brunch/.

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Zen Sai

There's a new kid in town, and its name is Zen Sai! I have always had an affinity with Japanese Cuisine and even transformed a room in my house into a sushi room; complete with an Asian theme and all. Imagine my excitement when I was invited to preview the entire menu at a new Izakaya opening in the Essex House Hotel in South Beach. The restaurant, appropriately named Zen Sai, (which means hors d'oeuvre in Japanese), is located at 1001 Collins Avenue.



From the moment I walked in, I was enthralled by the outdoor dining area. Featuring a small pool in the center, the endearing oasis is surrounded by candle lit tables and chairs, providing a romantic, tranquil setting. Inside, Zen Sai's cozy ambiance is perfect for a nice drink after work while sharing some small plates with friends.

Full selection of their sushi rolls

Selection of Japanese Beers

I was very impressed with all the dishes that were served for us to sample. From the delicious sushi rolls, to the robata-grilled items, the food was superb. And it doesn't end there. Zen Sai also features a vast selection of fine sakes, and specialty sake cocktails that are phenomenal.  For beer connoiseurs, they also offer Japanese beers. I especially enjoyed the way the staff described each ingredient in the cocktails, and offered suggestions for pairings with the food. They were very knowledgeable and made you feel at home. Impeccable service, great food and awesome drinks...I see the beginning of a beautiful thing.

Sake Selections

Warrior

Since I was able to sample the entire food and cocktail menu. I'll give you a visual tour of some of the items and let you know which were my favorite along the way. A warning before you continue..by the time you finish this post, you will be extremely hungry! I'll start with the drinks. Of the sakes, the one I sampled before I moved on to the cocktails was the Haiku, a semi-dry sake with flavors of gardenia, lavender and apple. It was not too sweet and I find it would pair very well with the rock shrimp from their menu.

Lychee Martini Sample

Selection of Cocktails

Because I personally prefer cocktails, I decided to concentrate on their Signature Cocktails by sampling them all. (Don't judge me.)  My two favorite were the Lychee Martini and the Kimono. The Lychee Martini was made with Kumosabe Nigori sake, Finlandia vodka, house-infused lychee syrup, simple syrup and lemon juice. It was the best! The cocktail is sweet, fragrant and comes with a lychee inside. The Kimono was just as outstanding and refreshing. It was also made with Kumosabe Nigori sake, and then a splash of Grey Goose Vodka, yuzu juice, watermelon juice, basil, agave nectar, lemon juice and a watermelon slice.

Now on to the best part (I am the "Food"aholic after all). May the food porn marathon begin:

Shishito Peppers

Fried Bok Choy

Shishito Peppers with Ginger Soy Sauce (Left) - Fun fact! 1 in 10 are spicy. Fried Bok Choy with soy sauce and toasted garlic (Right) -They tasted like potato chips! I can eat these while sitting in front of the T.V. Definite favorite!


      

Edamame

Squid Jerky

Squid Jerky with Garlic aioli (Left) - Have to chew these a bit. Edamame with Sea Salt and Ginger Soy Sauce (Right) - Not too salty.

Asian Green Salad

Octopus Salad

Asian Green Salad with Miso soy mustard vinaigrette (Left) - Loved the walnuts and the dressing. Octopus Salad (Right) - The yuzu juice brought out the flavors of all the ingredients and gave it a kick.

Spicy Rock Shrimp

Yellowtail Jalapeno

Spicy Rock Shrimp with Serrano aioli and Japanese Worcestershire (Left) - These were sweet and left your mouth on fire. Another favorite! Yellowtail Jalapeno with Citrus jalapeno soy sauce (Right) - They were flavorful, meaty and also had a kick.

Ribeye

Pork Belly

Ribeye with Yakitori Sauce (Left) - Well seasoned and juicy. Pork Belly with black bean sauce (Right) - Outrageously good! A favorite all the way, it also comes as a slider.

Salmon

Black Cod

Black Cod with sweet yuzu miso sauce. (Left) - Amazing taste! Tender, flaky fish blew me away. Salmon with Yakitori Sauce (Right) -The Yakitori glaze gave the salmon a sweet, enticing allure.

Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Shrimp

Bacon Wrapped Scallops
(Left)- Great combination of smoky bacon with mildly sweet scallop. Shrimp (Right) - They were marinated in cilantro and garlic and then grilled.

Six different sushi rolls

Prosciutto Roll

Zen Sai Rolls: (Left)- My two favorites were the Spicy Tuna and the BBQ Eel. There is also a Boston Roll which is vegetarian. Prosciutto Roll (Right)  - The taste of the prosciutto and goat cheese went well with the truffle oil and balsamic vinegar.

A return visit to Zen Sai is a definite must. It is truly a great place to relax and enjoy the Miami Beach vibe. For more information, you can visit Zen Sai online at http://www.zensaisobe.com/.

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