Well its December 21, 2012 and so far, no zombies, meteors, random fires, black holes, etc. Just a swarm of frozen H2O flakes falling from the sky. After being attacked by future snowman particles I've settled in to the nice, warm in doors. Christmas is fast approaching and I am sure about half of you have put off all the shopping, hoping the Mayans were right. Now that you are still alive, a scramble like none other before is the order of the day. Just three more days until the children of this country are doused in more toys than they need, blood sugar is raised by the hundreds of chocolate consumed and at least one person gets that ugly sweater from the one family member who just doesn't get it.
The hubs and I are spending Christmas Eve and the beginning of the day with his parents and family, then back up to my family. We have a tradition where we are allowed to open one present Christmas eve night, as a sort of teaser gift. Watching every Christmas movie known to man kind and drinking gallons of hot chocolate is how the few days before the holiday is spent.
Now, what are your traditions? Do you even have a tree? How do you decorate it? What is Christmas dinner like? Do you have to deal with family members who don't know what privacy, volume or deodorant is? Share your holiday stories and traditions below.
Have a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and may Kwanzaa be a good time of year for you.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Old Fashioned Christmas, London Ohio
After trudging through miles of cold, I am now toasty warm, back inside. The Old Fashioned Christmas was not what I expected it to be. There was a hay/carriage ride, some carolers, and hot chocolate or popcorn for a price or donation. It was very sparse in comparison to the last one I attended. It did leave me disappointed and wishing there had been more activity.
There was delicious hot chocolate, cookies, coffee and Belgian waffles provided by the London Coffee Peddler, or at least Mike, for the Trails of Madison County (I don't know their real name). The hot chocolate had some sort of spice in it which I am thinking is cardamom. It made it pleasantly delicious. The Belgian waffles had a light citrus flavor and made me regret getting the cookie instead.
There wasn't much of anything to look at or participate in. If you wanted to stand around for 45 minutes you could jump in a vessel drawn by horses to the other side of Main Street. But who has that kind of time while freezing your toes off. I did receive a free roll of wrapping paper, which are covering many gifts at the moment. There was pictures with Santa, for $5 and the shops stayed open a little later than usual.
All in all, it was just like a consumer's commercial all night. "Come in here and buy something" is really what it should be named. The last time I attended, there was free hot chocolate and at least 6 groups of carolers, a walking Santa, candy, cookies and all sorts of things. Now its just like a Christmas advertisement.
There was delicious hot chocolate, cookies, coffee and Belgian waffles provided by the London Coffee Peddler, or at least Mike, for the Trails of Madison County (I don't know their real name). The hot chocolate had some sort of spice in it which I am thinking is cardamom. It made it pleasantly delicious. The Belgian waffles had a light citrus flavor and made me regret getting the cookie instead.
There wasn't much of anything to look at or participate in. If you wanted to stand around for 45 minutes you could jump in a vessel drawn by horses to the other side of Main Street. But who has that kind of time while freezing your toes off. I did receive a free roll of wrapping paper, which are covering many gifts at the moment. There was pictures with Santa, for $5 and the shops stayed open a little later than usual.
All in all, it was just like a consumer's commercial all night. "Come in here and buy something" is really what it should be named. The last time I attended, there was free hot chocolate and at least 6 groups of carolers, a walking Santa, candy, cookies and all sorts of things. Now its just like a Christmas advertisement.
Rothwell's, London Ohio
After mixed reviews of this place from people around town, I decided to take my mother and try this place tonight. I heard it was rather pricey, especially for the area. Researching the menu online, it was no more expensive than Red Lobster or Ruby Tuesdays.
Upon entering, I was rather confused if the woman by the door was the hostess or a customer waiting on someone. (Seeing as how there was no hostess stand and she was wearing a jacket) The hostess stand is a wall table, by the men's restroom. We walked along a high wall to the main dining area. The bar is mostly closed off, which gives the impression of seclusion from the rest of the dining room. The tables are covered with white linen and....butcher paper. I see the idea for this, not having to spend so much money on the cleaning service, but I don't know if this works for the classy feeling they are trying to project. I had the impression that they are going for five star family restaurant, which is incohesive combined.
The menu had a wide variety of items, a long way from the eight they first started with, said one customer. The server did, what I always believe is the ultimate sin for a sever. While standing there, waiting for us to order, mom was making last minute decisions and she said that she could come back because she has another table she needs to get drinks for. As soon as I heard that, I didn't like her. That is one of the worst things to say to a customer. "Its ok, I have more important people than you to take care of" is always what goes through my head whenever a server mentions they have other people waiting for them.
I was really offended that our less than patient server gave us burnt cornbread. Yes, burnt. The bottoms were almost completely black. Of course this made it completely dry as well. It was extremely yellow and at first I thought it was some kind of lemon cake. I don't care who you are, how lazy you are, or ineptly ridiculous you might be, never, ever, ever serve anything burnt, especially to me.
We both got the daily special: pulled pork on texas toast with red skin mashed potatoes and onion rings. The pork was unbelievably salty. It tasted like it sat in cooking liquid for hours while it reduced into a salt lick. I had to stop eating it because it was hurting my mouth having that much sodium and the flavorful gravy just made it worse. It made the texas toast extremely soggy. The potatoes were rich and delightful. The small amount of gravy on them gave them a little boost of flavor. The onion rings tasted beer battered and were crispy and light. I am still debating on weather of not they are homemade or frozen. For dessert I got the chocolate lava cake a la mode. Now I don't believe these people know what a lava cake really is. When you cut into it, its supposed to be flowy, gooey, oozy. But instead, there was just melted little pieces of chocolate and it was too moist to hold up the ice cream and started to collapse and get soggy. It needed to be much denser.
The staff acted really odd in general. It was like a bunch of little school kids afraid to come over and just kept pushing each other saying "You go!". They were aloof and stayed in the kitchen as much as possible. I know the place I work, all the servers are always talking to everyone. Each other, customers, even themselves (haha) but these acted robotic.
Overall I give them 3 stars. I wouldn't really want to go back unless maybe someone else was paying for it.
Upon entering, I was rather confused if the woman by the door was the hostess or a customer waiting on someone. (Seeing as how there was no hostess stand and she was wearing a jacket) The hostess stand is a wall table, by the men's restroom. We walked along a high wall to the main dining area. The bar is mostly closed off, which gives the impression of seclusion from the rest of the dining room. The tables are covered with white linen and....butcher paper. I see the idea for this, not having to spend so much money on the cleaning service, but I don't know if this works for the classy feeling they are trying to project. I had the impression that they are going for five star family restaurant, which is incohesive combined.
The menu had a wide variety of items, a long way from the eight they first started with, said one customer. The server did, what I always believe is the ultimate sin for a sever. While standing there, waiting for us to order, mom was making last minute decisions and she said that she could come back because she has another table she needs to get drinks for. As soon as I heard that, I didn't like her. That is one of the worst things to say to a customer. "Its ok, I have more important people than you to take care of" is always what goes through my head whenever a server mentions they have other people waiting for them.
I was really offended that our less than patient server gave us burnt cornbread. Yes, burnt. The bottoms were almost completely black. Of course this made it completely dry as well. It was extremely yellow and at first I thought it was some kind of lemon cake. I don't care who you are, how lazy you are, or ineptly ridiculous you might be, never, ever, ever serve anything burnt, especially to me.
We both got the daily special: pulled pork on texas toast with red skin mashed potatoes and onion rings. The pork was unbelievably salty. It tasted like it sat in cooking liquid for hours while it reduced into a salt lick. I had to stop eating it because it was hurting my mouth having that much sodium and the flavorful gravy just made it worse. It made the texas toast extremely soggy. The potatoes were rich and delightful. The small amount of gravy on them gave them a little boost of flavor. The onion rings tasted beer battered and were crispy and light. I am still debating on weather of not they are homemade or frozen. For dessert I got the chocolate lava cake a la mode. Now I don't believe these people know what a lava cake really is. When you cut into it, its supposed to be flowy, gooey, oozy. But instead, there was just melted little pieces of chocolate and it was too moist to hold up the ice cream and started to collapse and get soggy. It needed to be much denser.
The staff acted really odd in general. It was like a bunch of little school kids afraid to come over and just kept pushing each other saying "You go!". They were aloof and stayed in the kitchen as much as possible. I know the place I work, all the servers are always talking to everyone. Each other, customers, even themselves (haha) but these acted robotic.
Overall I give them 3 stars. I wouldn't really want to go back unless maybe someone else was paying for it.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Thanksgiving Overload
As Thanksgiving comes to a screeching halt and the ever lingering drive to purchase more merchandise in the month of December than in the entire year becomes more apparent, everyone feels Christmas fast approaching. Though I have not been able to do many reviews, I am diligently searching for the "diamond in the rough". Unfortunately, my favorite coffee shop is temporarily closed pending relocation. Thus begins the quest for the "back up".
Although I am doing my best to stick with restaurants, mainly non-commercially owned and operated, I am eagerly waiting the major highlight of these cold months: Old Fashioned Christmas. I have heard it has changed since my last visit, but am looking forward to it nonetheless. I will be reviewing the different spectacles throughout the night and hopefully will post pictures of the event. If it is a disappointment, you will hear about it. It is promised to have food provided by the shops, activities and horses pulling some kind of apparatus.
Anticipating being bundled up and doused in hot cocoa, this girl is excited to relive the night for my readers. (however few and far between you might be) More reviews are to come as the remainder of the year treads onward. I hope you all had a happy thanksgiving.
Mini Chef
Although I am doing my best to stick with restaurants, mainly non-commercially owned and operated, I am eagerly waiting the major highlight of these cold months: Old Fashioned Christmas. I have heard it has changed since my last visit, but am looking forward to it nonetheless. I will be reviewing the different spectacles throughout the night and hopefully will post pictures of the event. If it is a disappointment, you will hear about it. It is promised to have food provided by the shops, activities and horses pulling some kind of apparatus.
Anticipating being bundled up and doused in hot cocoa, this girl is excited to relive the night for my readers. (however few and far between you might be) More reviews are to come as the remainder of the year treads onward. I hope you all had a happy thanksgiving.
Mini Chef
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
London Coffee Peddler, London Ohio Update
I figured I would do an updated review on the London Coffee Peddler because of the seasonal menu. Mike puts out seasonal menus for beverages and, let me tell you, the chai menu is nothing short of amazing. I am very weary about chai at places because I have experienced people who had no idea what this beverage entails. Either watered down, overpowering, or just plain disgusting has always been my experience.
I ordered a caramel and vanilla chai to test out the new-ish menu. It was amazing. The spices were not overpowering, the caramel and vanilla were more than just subtle hints of flavor. It was the first chai I have actually liked that I didn't make myself. I am excited to try more of the seasonal beverages.
Now this places is not just amazing coffee and chai. Mike provides customers with soup of the day, sandwiches, oatmeals, cookies, muffins, danishes and a lot more. This is one place I HIGHLY recommend people trying. It is on high street next to Subway, across from O'Conner's. And yes, that was a plug.
I ordered a caramel and vanilla chai to test out the new-ish menu. It was amazing. The spices were not overpowering, the caramel and vanilla were more than just subtle hints of flavor. It was the first chai I have actually liked that I didn't make myself. I am excited to try more of the seasonal beverages.
Now this places is not just amazing coffee and chai. Mike provides customers with soup of the day, sandwiches, oatmeals, cookies, muffins, danishes and a lot more. This is one place I HIGHLY recommend people trying. It is on high street next to Subway, across from O'Conner's. And yes, that was a plug.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
New List
Since I am living closer to Columbus now, I will be starting a new list. So comment below to tell me where to go!
Red Brick Tavern - Anonymous
Red Brick Tavern - Anonymous
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
China Panda, Athens Ohio
This place was such a disappointment that I am not even going to bother with describing to food, service nor the decor or staff. The hubs was very excited to take me here, having gone with friends and knowing my endless love of Chinese cuisine. I was anxious to go and finally, tonight, we got the chance. I was wanting to try something new and different, but the first plate we received was the downfall of this ''restaurant''.
Now, I have been toned down when it comes to my disappoint and disgust with the places I review. I have been told I have high standards, can be impossible to please and in a way am ''snobbish'' toward some things. I have been working on having an opened mind but not even the most nonjudgemental person could look past not one, but two insects in a dish.
That is right. After consuming just one beef roll filled with green onion, I made the sickening discovery that there were two, what looked like young cockroaches in the sauce. I was repulsed and immediately stopped eating. The hubs, wanting to give this place a second chance, convinced me to stay and at least finish the dinner. Reluctantly I waited to my entree.
I ordered crispy duck. This sealed any doubts I may have had about not coming back here again. They deep fried the duck and served it hacked into bits with the bones still intact. There was no sauce nor appeared to be any seasoning on it and it was served with plain rice. I was greatly offended at the lack of care this place had.
Now I have been to places that made me wait 45 minutes for microwaved food that had hair in it, places that refused to serve me because I was not a local and even a place that got everything I ordered wrong. But this, this topped them all. The dish was taken off the bill but nothing will take away the disappointment and disgust of this meal. I will not be giving this place a second chance and am strongly advising any and all persons who planned to or do frequent this establishment to cease their patronage.
As for a rating, I give it -5 stars. Seeing as how 5 star is the highest rating I give on my blogs, a negative 5 is the worst rating you can get. I don't appreciate being served bugs and leaving a restaurant queasy. My stomach hasn't settled in the past 3.5 hours since I ate there.
Now, I have been toned down when it comes to my disappoint and disgust with the places I review. I have been told I have high standards, can be impossible to please and in a way am ''snobbish'' toward some things. I have been working on having an opened mind but not even the most nonjudgemental person could look past not one, but two insects in a dish.
That is right. After consuming just one beef roll filled with green onion, I made the sickening discovery that there were two, what looked like young cockroaches in the sauce. I was repulsed and immediately stopped eating. The hubs, wanting to give this place a second chance, convinced me to stay and at least finish the dinner. Reluctantly I waited to my entree.
I ordered crispy duck. This sealed any doubts I may have had about not coming back here again. They deep fried the duck and served it hacked into bits with the bones still intact. There was no sauce nor appeared to be any seasoning on it and it was served with plain rice. I was greatly offended at the lack of care this place had.
Now I have been to places that made me wait 45 minutes for microwaved food that had hair in it, places that refused to serve me because I was not a local and even a place that got everything I ordered wrong. But this, this topped them all. The dish was taken off the bill but nothing will take away the disappointment and disgust of this meal. I will not be giving this place a second chance and am strongly advising any and all persons who planned to or do frequent this establishment to cease their patronage.
As for a rating, I give it -5 stars. Seeing as how 5 star is the highest rating I give on my blogs, a negative 5 is the worst rating you can get. I don't appreciate being served bugs and leaving a restaurant queasy. My stomach hasn't settled in the past 3.5 hours since I ate there.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Location Change
Good Evening followers. My blog will be taking a location change in the next few weeks. I will be moving and will be closer to Columbus. I am looking forward to reviewing a lot of places around the area. There are a lot more opportunities for places up here. I am hoping to build up my blog and make my posts more frequent.
If you have any place you want me to review just leave a comment below. I will put it on my list and put it on the schedule for me to review. I look forward to finding out where you want me to go next. Keep trying new things!
Mini Chef
If you have any place you want me to review just leave a comment below. I will put it on my list and put it on the schedule for me to review. I look forward to finding out where you want me to go next. Keep trying new things!
Mini Chef
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Tammy's Country Kitchen, Nelsonville Ohio
Ok boys and girls, hold on to your hats because its that time again. Today we went to Tammy's Country Kitchen in Nelsonville. Now I must say I had a lot of reservations about this place. First off, its in Nelsonville. I know many of you have no idea what that means but this place is about like the back woods of BFE. I have been here before, but that was a few years ago. I didn't want to go and was determined to hate everything about it. My mission was accomplished but, as a food critic, I had to try it again with an open mind. There are a few things I will never like about this place, but its not as bad as I painted in my head before.
To start, the outside storage creeps me out. Not just an outside, what I believe is a freezer, but dry storage items as well. This is just what I see driving past all the time. The decor is well....needing an update. It is sufficiently theme accurate, but I don't think a good spruce would hurt anything.
Our server, Tina, seemed very distracted. When we ordered and she would repeat it back to us incorrectly and when we tried to correct her, she would just repeat what she said before. She wasn't really paying attention all that much to the customers and we never got a refill on our drinks. I don't think taking personal calls at work and walking around the whole place while talking is professional either.
We ordered at 1:27 and got our food 1:45. (Yes, I timed it.) This isn't completely horrible timing but my food was not hot. This put a little damper in my spirits when I dug right in, but it didn't throw everything completely off.
I ordered the special: Homemade noodles with mashed potatoes, greens beans and a roll. Let me tell you, this was delicious. Even though it lacked sufficient seasoning for my taste, it was the best diner food I have eaten thus far. Even the mashed potatoes were homemade (or the best instant I have ever had). They were creamy with a slight chunkiness to them that I enjoy. The green beans weren't extremely impressive, the bacon was very dry, but with a touch of salt and pepper, they weren't bad. The roll was painfully obviously store bought, which was disappointing. But this meal is a whole lot better, and cheaper, than any fast food.
The hubs ordered the big o'l bacon cheese burger with onions rings, chicken tenders and a sweet tea. The burger was a pretty hefty size and the bacon was acceptionally crispy. Even though it had my least favorite lettuce (iceburg) it is a lot better than any fast food ever. I didn't ask if the onion rings were homemade as well but they were delicious. The chicken tenders was nothing really to write home about, the typical GFS bought chicken, sorry to say.
After coming to the place for a second chance, I like it. Its homey and yes, the service is a bit slower than what I or others may be used to, but its not a fast paced place. You can relax, visit, and enjoy food. There is one quote I remember from this place that I wish I could say about my employment.
"She's (Tammy) the most awesome boss I've ever had in my entire life." Its really great that an employee can say this about their employer because most of us can't. You know if the workers are happy, that trickles down to everything else in the business too. I have to give Tammy props for being "awesome".
I give them 4 stars because there is room for improvement.
To start, the outside storage creeps me out. Not just an outside, what I believe is a freezer, but dry storage items as well. This is just what I see driving past all the time. The decor is well....needing an update. It is sufficiently theme accurate, but I don't think a good spruce would hurt anything.
Our server, Tina, seemed very distracted. When we ordered and she would repeat it back to us incorrectly and when we tried to correct her, she would just repeat what she said before. She wasn't really paying attention all that much to the customers and we never got a refill on our drinks. I don't think taking personal calls at work and walking around the whole place while talking is professional either.
We ordered at 1:27 and got our food 1:45. (Yes, I timed it.) This isn't completely horrible timing but my food was not hot. This put a little damper in my spirits when I dug right in, but it didn't throw everything completely off.
I ordered the special: Homemade noodles with mashed potatoes, greens beans and a roll. Let me tell you, this was delicious. Even though it lacked sufficient seasoning for my taste, it was the best diner food I have eaten thus far. Even the mashed potatoes were homemade (or the best instant I have ever had). They were creamy with a slight chunkiness to them that I enjoy. The green beans weren't extremely impressive, the bacon was very dry, but with a touch of salt and pepper, they weren't bad. The roll was painfully obviously store bought, which was disappointing. But this meal is a whole lot better, and cheaper, than any fast food.
The hubs ordered the big o'l bacon cheese burger with onions rings, chicken tenders and a sweet tea. The burger was a pretty hefty size and the bacon was acceptionally crispy. Even though it had my least favorite lettuce (iceburg) it is a lot better than any fast food ever. I didn't ask if the onion rings were homemade as well but they were delicious. The chicken tenders was nothing really to write home about, the typical GFS bought chicken, sorry to say.
After coming to the place for a second chance, I like it. Its homey and yes, the service is a bit slower than what I or others may be used to, but its not a fast paced place. You can relax, visit, and enjoy food. There is one quote I remember from this place that I wish I could say about my employment.
"She's (Tammy) the most awesome boss I've ever had in my entire life." Its really great that an employee can say this about their employer because most of us can't. You know if the workers are happy, that trickles down to everything else in the business too. I have to give Tammy props for being "awesome".
Thursday, September 6, 2012
The List
The list of places I will review, in no particular order. Leave comments below for me to add to The List.
Tammy's Country Kitchen
Los Mariachis
Dp Dough
Whits
O' Bettys
Union Street Diner
Broney's
Purple Chopstix
Abrio's Brick Oven
Insomniac Cookies
Dragon's Cup
Casa Nueva
China Panda
Della Zone
Olde Dutch Restaurant
M & M Family Diner
La Cascada
LJ's Coffee Shop and Restaurant
Jack's Steak House
Tammy's Country Kitchen
Los Mariachis
Dp Dough
Whits
O' Bettys
Union Street Diner
Broney's
Purple Chopstix
Abrio's Brick Oven
Insomniac Cookies
Dragon's Cup
Casa Nueva
China Panda
Della Zone
Olde Dutch Restaurant
M & M Family Diner
La Cascada
LJ's Coffee Shop and Restaurant
Jack's Steak House
Friday, August 31, 2012
Recipes
I had a request to put up recipes and menus when I don't have time to review places. So I will be periodically putting up gluten-free, lactose-free, sugar-free recipes as well as personal favorites. To get notifications of when this post is updated, subscribe. You can also use the comment section below to post some of your favorite recipes. Happy Eating :)
Basil Cream Sauce
Yield: About 1 pint (16 oz)
1 tbs butter
1 tbs flour (or as needed)
2 tsp garlic, minced
1 tbs dried basil
1 pint (16 oz) milk
1/4 cup mozzarella or parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
1. In a medium sauce pan, melt the butter on medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and let cook for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the flour, stirring constantly to form a paste.
4. Add milk, whisking to make sure no clumps form. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add basil and whisk until sauce becomes nape.
6. Add cheese and stir until incorporated thoroughly.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Vegetable Soup with Beef
2 qts beef broth
1 cup tomato juice
6 oz cubed beef
1 half yellow onion, chopped
3 large carrots, chopped
4 potatoes, skinned and chopped
1/2 can peas
1 cup fresh green beans
1/2 can corn
2 tsp garlic, minced
1 tbs basil
2 tsp garlic pepper
2 tsp oregano
1 tsp thyme
1 small dash of red pepper flakes, adjust as desired
cornstarch slurry
1. Brown meat in saute pan.
2. Combine all ingredients in a large sauce pan and cook on medium high until all vegetables are tender.
3. Add the slurry until the desired thickness is reached.
Basil Cream Sauce
Yield: About 1 pint (16 oz)
1 tbs butter
1 tbs flour (or as needed)
2 tsp garlic, minced
1 tbs dried basil
1 pint (16 oz) milk
1/4 cup mozzarella or parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
1. In a medium sauce pan, melt the butter on medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and let cook for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the flour, stirring constantly to form a paste.
4. Add milk, whisking to make sure no clumps form. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add basil and whisk until sauce becomes nape.
6. Add cheese and stir until incorporated thoroughly.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Vegetable Soup with Beef
2 qts beef broth
1 cup tomato juice
6 oz cubed beef
1 half yellow onion, chopped
3 large carrots, chopped
4 potatoes, skinned and chopped
1/2 can peas
1 cup fresh green beans
1/2 can corn
2 tsp garlic, minced
1 tbs basil
2 tsp garlic pepper
2 tsp oregano
1 tsp thyme
1 small dash of red pepper flakes, adjust as desired
cornstarch slurry
1. Brown meat in saute pan.
2. Combine all ingredients in a large sauce pan and cook on medium high until all vegetables are tender.
3. Add the slurry until the desired thickness is reached.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Village Bakery & Cafe, Athen Ohio
First off, this place does not have espresso. Now I have never heard of a cafe that doesn't not serve espresso, until now. They have fair trade coffee and organic food, with a menu true to their theme. I would say this place is not bad. It is kind of like a cafe meets a market meets a gift shop. With stickers, mugs, t-shirts, and other various items to purchase, they let you buy just about anything that's not nailed down. They have two different seating areas. One is more diner-esk with padded booths and a bar by the wall. The other is in their little market area, more secluded in the back. Pasta, meat, Paw Paw popsicles, cheese and, yes, wine, entice the passers by to take a gander and browse. The atmosphere is like a vintage diner meets a hippie commune, in a good way.Now, lets get to the good part....what I ordered. Because they have no blended drinks nor cold coffee, I got a regular cup-o-joe. They have self-serve coffee with optional 2% milk or half and half. (Those of us with a lactose intolerance are SOL it will seem.) They also provide honey and organic sugar for sweeteners and cinnamon and something I assume is cinnamon sugar seeing as how nothing but the milk was labeled. I decided to get something to eat, to complete the experience, and purchased a lemon yogurt cookie.All of this came to $4.35, eat in tax included. The coffee was 2.50 so 1.50 for a cookie the size of my fist (and I have small hands) is not a good start.
The coffee is bold and nutty with definite traces of bitter dark chocolate (which I find altogether pleasant). The cookie is.....well lemony. The yogurt gives it a crisp, freshness about it, but it still is a little dry. The combination isn't bad at all, though the prices are a bit steep for a cup of coffee and a cookie. I would want to revisit this place. It is quiet and seclusive enough for my anti-social personality. I highly recommend stopping by, if just to glance, at their market items. They strongly promote local products, like Snowville Creamery. (Their chocolate milk is AMAZING.)
Even though I kinda like this place, there are some down points. No espresso at a coffee shop should be a sin. They might want to rethink having their pastries in a refrigerated case with no containers or wrapping. Finally, and this is not something they can control, their parking options are the worst! I am a horrible person when it comes to backing up and their parking lot makes me cringe. So, for the whole experience, I give it 3.75 stars. I really like espresso.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Recommendations
I have decided to post about my favorite products. I will only be using this post, editing it whenever I find something I like. So you have to SUBSCRIBE in order to get news of any changes. Click on the "followers" button on the right.
Silver Bridge
Anyone who knows me knows I love coffee. I have tried this coffee at the Farmer's Market in Athens and I am in love with the Jamacian Me Crazy blend. It is flavored and an amazing mild brew. The company that sells it is "Silver Bridge Coffee Company". It is owned and operated by Lorraine Walker in Gallipolis, Ohio. It is fair trade certified, with is the new craze now adays. They have really great coffee for about the same price that you would pay for a bag of Starbuck's coffee. To order online go to: silverbridgecoffee.com
Rhapsody
Live around Athens County and looking for a quiet, romantic place to take someone to dinner? Rhapsody is the perfect setting. With a romantic ambiance, delicious menu and acceptional bar, you can wine and dine your honey. But be prepared to pay a pretty penny. This is not a cheap place but aren't they worth it?
Cantrell Honey
Love honey and want some non-store brand, over processed, almost synthetic honey-food? Cantrell Honey, based out of Athens Ohio, is the perfect honey. They saved a species of bees from Florida that was on the brink of extinction. The honey is sweet with a hint of floral. They have their products in the Athens Kroger and at the Farmer's Market in the parking lot of the Athen's Mall every Saturday from 10am-1pm. Red heads get free honey sticks.
The Donkey
Love organic, fair trade coffee? The Donkey is the perfect place, with a sedate atmosphere that allows for studying, conversation, or just reading a book. A two story seating area is the best combination for the favorite coffee shop amungst Ohio University students. The coffee is delicious, no matter what you get, and the staff is friendly.
Silver Bridge
Anyone who knows me knows I love coffee. I have tried this coffee at the Farmer's Market in Athens and I am in love with the Jamacian Me Crazy blend. It is flavored and an amazing mild brew. The company that sells it is "Silver Bridge Coffee Company". It is owned and operated by Lorraine Walker in Gallipolis, Ohio. It is fair trade certified, with is the new craze now adays. They have really great coffee for about the same price that you would pay for a bag of Starbuck's coffee. To order online go to: silverbridgecoffee.com
Rhapsody
Live around Athens County and looking for a quiet, romantic place to take someone to dinner? Rhapsody is the perfect setting. With a romantic ambiance, delicious menu and acceptional bar, you can wine and dine your honey. But be prepared to pay a pretty penny. This is not a cheap place but aren't they worth it?
Cantrell Honey
Love honey and want some non-store brand, over processed, almost synthetic honey-food? Cantrell Honey, based out of Athens Ohio, is the perfect honey. They saved a species of bees from Florida that was on the brink of extinction. The honey is sweet with a hint of floral. They have their products in the Athens Kroger and at the Farmer's Market in the parking lot of the Athen's Mall every Saturday from 10am-1pm. Red heads get free honey sticks.
The Donkey
Love organic, fair trade coffee? The Donkey is the perfect place, with a sedate atmosphere that allows for studying, conversation, or just reading a book. A two story seating area is the best combination for the favorite coffee shop amungst Ohio University students. The coffee is delicious, no matter what you get, and the staff is friendly.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Weebly!
I have decided to make a weebly! I am unsure exactly what I want to use it for. Should I use it as another blog? Should I just create teasers for this blog? Should I use it for my food critic persona's blog? I don't know! Suggestions will be helpful! Post comments below to tell me what you think. Here is a link for all of you to view my awesome weebly site.
www.viewtothepoint.weebly.com
I do need subscribers! This lets me know people are actually reading and not just waiting for me to post a link on my twitter/facebook. Subscribe to this blog by the pop up tabs on the right. -> over there.
www.viewtothepoint.weebly.com
I do need subscribers! This lets me know people are actually reading and not just waiting for me to post a link on my twitter/facebook. Subscribe to this blog by the pop up tabs on the right. -> over there.
Friday, August 10, 2012
Bagel Street Deli, Athens Ohio
This is a quaint little place. It looks more like a hole in the wall place, but the food is actually extraordinary. They have bagel sandwiches ranging from extremely carnivorous to tofu and vegetarian. They also have breakfast sandwiches, which I haven't tried yet but will soon. The names for their sandwiches are humerus. I got "Kim's Kraving" that is turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese and mayo. I like to start off with something I know when I am going somewhere new, unless their specialties look scrumptious. They food is pretty well priced and the sandwiches are well sized. They have a various assortment of chips as well. It is very college-est.
The decor is kinda punk rock-ish. Bar stools and tables line the walls. The only odd thing I find about this is that there is a sort of hallway you have to pass through to get to the counter. It seemed very weird when I first went there, but now its kinda unique. It does take a little while to get the food, but it is worth the wait.
I give it 4 stars.
Mini Chef
The decor is kinda punk rock-ish. Bar stools and tables line the walls. The only odd thing I find about this is that there is a sort of hallway you have to pass through to get to the counter. It seemed very weird when I first went there, but now its kinda unique. It does take a little while to get the food, but it is worth the wait.
I give it 4 stars.
Mini Chef
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Fluff Bakery, Athens Ohio
Like a band aid, some things are better off when you don't hesitate. I did not really care for this place. I was looking forward to experiencing the food and coffee here, having heard so many great things about it. After entering, I found the menu hard to read. A lot was jumbled up on the chalk boards and they used, what I like to call "seller's lingo". "Seller's lingo" is a fancy way of saying their descriptions are a bunch of B.S. that make the customers think they are getting something special or a bargain.
I got an Iced Mocha Coffee with an extra shot of espresso. The girl taking my order told me about the mocha milk they make for this drink that contains "20 shots of espresso, half and half, skim milk and Hersey's chocolate". She ranted about how sweet, chocolaty and delicious it was, so I gave in and tried it. It was NOT at all chocolaty and not even in the least sweet. It tasted like espresso with ice. I was highly disappointed. Even after I added simple syrup to it, which they do offer at the sugar it up station, there was hardly any improvement.
But the real kicker was the hubby's drink. He got the "Train Catcher" It was half mocha milk, half toddy. To quote the hubby "It was half mocha mix, half toddy and all gross". It tasted like someone poured ice water in a shot of espresso.
The only plus side were the pastries. I got a honey glazed blueberry scone and the hubs got a peanut butter cookie. To me, it seemed like a kindergartner priced their pastries because everything was either $2 or $2.50. Keeping it simple, I understand, but I know the pastry industry and the items they had was either way over priced or they were practically giving them away for free.
The music in this place was mind blowing, and not in a good way. Sort of Latino band stand music, it was loud and we had to practically yell to talk to the employees. The cashier did not seem informed at all about the products, adding to the disappointment. Oh, and the kitchen closes at 5, before the bakery closes.
We gave this place 2 stars, because the tables and pastries were nice. The decor looked like a college kid who liked the 1950's retro era decorated it but didn't have a sufficient budget to finish the job.
Not worth the hype.
Mini Chef.
Ok, aftermath rant. I found out today that this place charged me twice. I don't know if it was a holding charge or they are just incompetent. I am expecting a call from the manager when they figure out what is going on. This marks it down to a .5 of a star, still like the tables. I will post the results.
I got an Iced Mocha Coffee with an extra shot of espresso. The girl taking my order told me about the mocha milk they make for this drink that contains "20 shots of espresso, half and half, skim milk and Hersey's chocolate". She ranted about how sweet, chocolaty and delicious it was, so I gave in and tried it. It was NOT at all chocolaty and not even in the least sweet. It tasted like espresso with ice. I was highly disappointed. Even after I added simple syrup to it, which they do offer at the sugar it up station, there was hardly any improvement.
But the real kicker was the hubby's drink. He got the "Train Catcher" It was half mocha milk, half toddy. To quote the hubby "It was half mocha mix, half toddy and all gross". It tasted like someone poured ice water in a shot of espresso.
The only plus side were the pastries. I got a honey glazed blueberry scone and the hubs got a peanut butter cookie. To me, it seemed like a kindergartner priced their pastries because everything was either $2 or $2.50. Keeping it simple, I understand, but I know the pastry industry and the items they had was either way over priced or they were practically giving them away for free.
The music in this place was mind blowing, and not in a good way. Sort of Latino band stand music, it was loud and we had to practically yell to talk to the employees. The cashier did not seem informed at all about the products, adding to the disappointment. Oh, and the kitchen closes at 5, before the bakery closes.
We gave this place 2 stars, because the tables and pastries were nice. The decor looked like a college kid who liked the 1950's retro era decorated it but didn't have a sufficient budget to finish the job.
Not worth the hype.
Mini Chef.
Ok, aftermath rant. I found out today that this place charged me twice. I don't know if it was a holding charge or they are just incompetent. I am expecting a call from the manager when they figure out what is going on. This marks it down to a .5 of a star, still like the tables. I will post the results.
Monday, August 6, 2012
Time for video?
Lets put this to the test. Show I start view blogs/cooking shows? Comment below on why or why not, yes or no, other suggestions! You can subscribe to my blog over here -> and become a minion!
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Mullins Pizza, McArthur Ohio
WORST PLACE EVER!
Now let me fill in the rest. The hubby and I went here looking for some classy diner time. We heard it was pretty good and now that it is under new management, wanted to see if it was better. We were tired and lazy this day but we still should have walked out.
It too them 45 MINUTES to MICROWAVE my chicken Alfredo. I don't even remember what the hubs got, but you know what, this place is so bad I don't even care. The back of the house dicked around and got slammed when they had an order of 6 pizzas. They even said they wished they could take off everything that wasn't pizza in the menu because then it would be easier. IN FRONT OF CUSTOMERS! We had people eat and leave in droves before they even realized we were there.
I know staying wasn't the smartest thing to do but we thought maybe its worth the wait. By the time I finished my barely lukewarm pasta, there was hair on the bottom of the bowl. When I brought this to their attention, they merely stated it must have been when they made it because they freeze their food. I was APPALLED to say the least! Then they REFUSED to take it off the bill! Just said "oh well".
I want my $22 back! They ripped us off and they don't even deserve to be open! An apology from the owner would be lovely, but seeing as how that will NEVER happen, I am advising every to never, ever, ever, ever go to Mullins Pizza. Save your money. Unless you feel like throwing it away then you are better off tossing it in the blender.
As for stars, I will dip down into the negatives for this one. In fact, I give this one 5 black holes.
Mini Chef.
Now let me fill in the rest. The hubby and I went here looking for some classy diner time. We heard it was pretty good and now that it is under new management, wanted to see if it was better. We were tired and lazy this day but we still should have walked out.
It too them 45 MINUTES to MICROWAVE my chicken Alfredo. I don't even remember what the hubs got, but you know what, this place is so bad I don't even care. The back of the house dicked around and got slammed when they had an order of 6 pizzas. They even said they wished they could take off everything that wasn't pizza in the menu because then it would be easier. IN FRONT OF CUSTOMERS! We had people eat and leave in droves before they even realized we were there.
I know staying wasn't the smartest thing to do but we thought maybe its worth the wait. By the time I finished my barely lukewarm pasta, there was hair on the bottom of the bowl. When I brought this to their attention, they merely stated it must have been when they made it because they freeze their food. I was APPALLED to say the least! Then they REFUSED to take it off the bill! Just said "oh well".
I want my $22 back! They ripped us off and they don't even deserve to be open! An apology from the owner would be lovely, but seeing as how that will NEVER happen, I am advising every to never, ever, ever, ever go to Mullins Pizza. Save your money. Unless you feel like throwing it away then you are better off tossing it in the blender.
As for stars, I will dip down into the negatives for this one. In fact, I give this one 5 black holes.
Mini Chef.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Boot Factory Grill, Nelsonville Ohio
I just remembered this place today and rushed to my computer to review it. Although I am trying to get more "higher class", I guess you could say, places to eat, the Boot Factory Grill should not be discarded. This little rustic eatery in the middle of Rocky Boots is actually quite tasty. They have menu items such as Bison Burger, Black Angus Steak, Ribeye and Fish tail. As well as Grilled Chicken, Hamburgers, Ruebens and Onion Rings. They range from trying to be extravagant to staying true to simple classics.
Even though I am partial to this particular place, it does have its flaws. The service is on the slow side and the people in the back do not seem to be running on all cylinders, putting it nicely. But, with a little borrowed patience, you can get a pretty decent meal for cheaper than the fast food chain down the street.
I usually, as in always, get the baked steak sandwich. Now, it is a sin to cook steak any longer than medium, but when its on bread, I do like it well done, or even to the point of falling apart. It goes great with beef gravy and the mashed potatoes they serve. Their sweet tea isn't half bad either, though they could up their dosage of sugar. It is called SWEET tea after all.
A grand total of 3.75 stars.
Mini Chef
Even though I am partial to this particular place, it does have its flaws. The service is on the slow side and the people in the back do not seem to be running on all cylinders, putting it nicely. But, with a little borrowed patience, you can get a pretty decent meal for cheaper than the fast food chain down the street.
I usually, as in always, get the baked steak sandwich. Now, it is a sin to cook steak any longer than medium, but when its on bread, I do like it well done, or even to the point of falling apart. It goes great with beef gravy and the mashed potatoes they serve. Their sweet tea isn't half bad either, though they could up their dosage of sugar. It is called SWEET tea after all.
A grand total of 3.75 stars.
Mini Chef
Best Coffee in Athens County?
Because none of these social media sources are working, I am entering my blog to soak up the fond from my audience. Where is the best coffee in Athens County? Was it fair trade, chain company, mom and pop cafe? Leave comments here and I will test your buds. I will rate your favorite place and feature it in my blog!
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Thursday, August 2, 2012
Court Street Diner, Athens Ohio
This is located smack dap in the middle of Court Street in Athens. It is a typical 1950's looking diner with an awkward atmosphere. The menu alone is enough to give anyone a headache, trying to decide how they are going to be over charged. When the hubby and I went here, I got a classic club with cottage cheese. It was the only thing on the menu I figured out not be able to be screwed up....but you know what they say about assuming. Every club I have ever had was toasted with tomato, lettuce, turkey, sometimes ham, bacon, cheese and mayo. This one had plain, non-toasted white bread with turkey, two slices of bacon, tomato and a little piece of lettuce. It was about the size of my hand, and being 5'2'', that is pretty small. For $7.99 I could have gotten a foot long that was better quality.
The menu is outrageously huge, but being a college town whose students major in hangovers, I see why they have to releave every single craving anyone could possibly have. From burgers to quesadillas to breakfast food to classical American comfort food, this place has about everything here...about. It is definiatly not worth the price.
2 Stars. That's it.
Mini Chef
The menu is outrageously huge, but being a college town whose students major in hangovers, I see why they have to releave every single craving anyone could possibly have. From burgers to quesadillas to breakfast food to classical American comfort food, this place has about everything here...about. It is definiatly not worth the price.
2 Stars. That's it.
Mini Chef
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Brenen's Coffee Cafe, Athens Ohio
This is a coffee/sandwich shop on Court Street, just a hop, skip and a jump away from OU. It serves coffee, specialty drinks, sandwiches, homemade ice cream, various salads and soups. It has plenty of inside seating, as well as outside. Its a quaint place, simple decor, and plays some pretty awesome alternative and pop music.
This place rarely disappoints. I usually get a Milky Way (sound familiar?) with soy and no whip. Here, the soy definitely makes it taste like a cookie, if it is made right. They do blend all their hot drinks and it is perfect if you aren't wanting a really strong coffee taste. Of course, I always put my orders in as Batman, which makes the staff laugh and somewhere question my sanity. They try to serve in a timely manner, but patience is supposed to be a virtue.
However my last visit wasn't quite up to par. I went with my husband, my sister and her boyfriend. We got sandwiches and, of course, coffee. My sister hates cold coffee but I have been slowly converting her to frappicinos, as long as they taste good. Now I will say they this guy was new and he was still being trained. However, one must know not to put in so much caramel syrup that is tastes like you are licking a sugar cube. It was far too overpowering and extremely sweet. Luckily, that is how my sister's boyfriend likes his drinks. So nothing was lost. My replacement was a Frozen Lemonade, which was strong as well but that is how I take my lemonade.
Their sandwiches are delicious. I always get mine on ciabatta. That day the hubby got a Court on Bleu. A play for Cordon Bleu. It had the usual suspects, turkey, ham, lettuce, tomato, honey mustard and I believe onions. It was good, even though I loath honey mustard. They do come with sides, which is nice since the sandwiches are about $4-7.
During the summer, this place is not really too busy. Everything dies down when OU is not in session, but the peaceful solidarity is refreshing from the insane chaos when people are horded around. But, if you like a crowd, make sure to come at peak hours between August and May.
I give them 4 stars.
Mini Chef
This place rarely disappoints. I usually get a Milky Way (sound familiar?) with soy and no whip. Here, the soy definitely makes it taste like a cookie, if it is made right. They do blend all their hot drinks and it is perfect if you aren't wanting a really strong coffee taste. Of course, I always put my orders in as Batman, which makes the staff laugh and somewhere question my sanity. They try to serve in a timely manner, but patience is supposed to be a virtue.
However my last visit wasn't quite up to par. I went with my husband, my sister and her boyfriend. We got sandwiches and, of course, coffee. My sister hates cold coffee but I have been slowly converting her to frappicinos, as long as they taste good. Now I will say they this guy was new and he was still being trained. However, one must know not to put in so much caramel syrup that is tastes like you are licking a sugar cube. It was far too overpowering and extremely sweet. Luckily, that is how my sister's boyfriend likes his drinks. So nothing was lost. My replacement was a Frozen Lemonade, which was strong as well but that is how I take my lemonade.
Their sandwiches are delicious. I always get mine on ciabatta. That day the hubby got a Court on Bleu. A play for Cordon Bleu. It had the usual suspects, turkey, ham, lettuce, tomato, honey mustard and I believe onions. It was good, even though I loath honey mustard. They do come with sides, which is nice since the sandwiches are about $4-7.
During the summer, this place is not really too busy. Everything dies down when OU is not in session, but the peaceful solidarity is refreshing from the insane chaos when people are horded around. But, if you like a crowd, make sure to come at peak hours between August and May.
I give them 4 stars.
Mini Chef
Sunday, July 29, 2012
London Coffee Peddler, London Ohio
This place opened up not too long ago in my home town. It is a one man, and occasional family member, operation. They buy their coffee from Hemisphere Coffee Roasters, or HCR. HCR buys their coffee straight from the farmers and try to cut out as many middle men as possible. They opened last year and from what I can tell, it seems to be going well.
They have chess meetings here every Wednesday at noon and this is a bicycle repair shop as well. Weather it is needing your chain fixed, your tires pumped, or seat adjusted, Mike lends a helping hand. For more information about the services he offers, contact the store at 740-490-7328 or send an email at mike@londoncoffeepeddler.com.
I was dying to try this place since I saw them start construction. I love finding new and awesome coffee shops, little places that just love what they do. Mike has a variety of flavors and my sister even helps with making specials for holidays and seasonal coffees. I myself had a hand in making the special menu in honor of the summer Olympics 2012. But whatever you would like, Mike tries to make it work as best he can. He recently started selling sandwiches and soups. There are also pastries, cookies and other beverages besides coffee and espresso available. A somewhat full menu is available on the website linked below.
My absolute favorite is Dark of the Moon Ride. This delicious drink is amazing weather hot or...that's right....blended. It is espresso, dark chocolate, caramel, steamed milk and whipped cream, which I leave off. The dark chocolate brings out the bold, nutty and earthy flavors of the espresso while the caramel accents the sweet and almost minty undertones. I was told he does a cold press, which is brewing coffee in cold or room temperature water for a long period of time versus a quick brew with hot water. This saves on the bitterness hot coffee gets when cooled.
With the wireless internet available, it is impossible not to sit and linger for a good hour, or four...five...six. He is friendly and knowledgeable about the bike trails around the area and more. He will give you advice and tips about bikes, trips and even tell you about upcoming excursions planned.
I give this place 5 stars.
Mini Chef
They have chess meetings here every Wednesday at noon and this is a bicycle repair shop as well. Weather it is needing your chain fixed, your tires pumped, or seat adjusted, Mike lends a helping hand. For more information about the services he offers, contact the store at 740-490-7328 or send an email at mike@londoncoffeepeddler.com.
I was dying to try this place since I saw them start construction. I love finding new and awesome coffee shops, little places that just love what they do. Mike has a variety of flavors and my sister even helps with making specials for holidays and seasonal coffees. I myself had a hand in making the special menu in honor of the summer Olympics 2012. But whatever you would like, Mike tries to make it work as best he can. He recently started selling sandwiches and soups. There are also pastries, cookies and other beverages besides coffee and espresso available. A somewhat full menu is available on the website linked below.
My absolute favorite is Dark of the Moon Ride. This delicious drink is amazing weather hot or...that's right....blended. It is espresso, dark chocolate, caramel, steamed milk and whipped cream, which I leave off. The dark chocolate brings out the bold, nutty and earthy flavors of the espresso while the caramel accents the sweet and almost minty undertones. I was told he does a cold press, which is brewing coffee in cold or room temperature water for a long period of time versus a quick brew with hot water. This saves on the bitterness hot coffee gets when cooled.
With the wireless internet available, it is impossible not to sit and linger for a good hour, or four...five...six. He is friendly and knowledgeable about the bike trails around the area and more. He will give you advice and tips about bikes, trips and even tell you about upcoming excursions planned.
I give this place 5 stars.
Mini Chef
Donkey Coffee and Espresso, Athens Ohio
This cafe is located in Athens not too far away from OU campus. It is a small cafe that provides a study atmosphere, both upstairs and downstairs seating, as well as 24/7 service during finals. Their products are organic and fair trade, which is almost a must around OU. They serve pastries, coffees, teas, and other beverages.
If you are looking for overly sugary and sweet coffee, this is not the place to go. Their drinks are absolutely phenomenal, but they don't try to mask the flavors of the coffee with sugar and syrups. Their hot coffees are bold and pipping hot, as one would expect. They work to bring out the espresso's bold, nutty and rich flavor by accenting it with syrups that aren't over powering. Their cold drinks, though I have issue with their policy of not making every hot drink into a blended drink (-_-), their selection is delightful. And, of course, they have soy milk. About every place now a days has soy milk, but I have run into a few that do not, or can't carry it due to cost efficiency.
Their staff is knowledgeable and comfortable with treating you more like a long lost friend than a customer. They joke around and some even make your coffee look pretty with an extra flair with your foam. Their cups are humongous, at least their eating in ones are. Although I do cringe, very much, at sharing the same cup thousands of other people have used, I know they wash them thoroughly. But still I ask for a to go cup.
Their couches are comfortable and their seating is all around every little space they can place a table and a few chairs. Their upstairs seating is great for deep conversation or taking a board game from their selection. It is a great place to mellow out and relax.
I give them 4.5 stars, because I like blended drinks in the summer. Grr.
Mini Chef
For their website, click the link below.
http://www.donkeycoffee.com/
If you are looking for overly sugary and sweet coffee, this is not the place to go. Their drinks are absolutely phenomenal, but they don't try to mask the flavors of the coffee with sugar and syrups. Their hot coffees are bold and pipping hot, as one would expect. They work to bring out the espresso's bold, nutty and rich flavor by accenting it with syrups that aren't over powering. Their cold drinks, though I have issue with their policy of not making every hot drink into a blended drink (-_-), their selection is delightful. And, of course, they have soy milk. About every place now a days has soy milk, but I have run into a few that do not, or can't carry it due to cost efficiency.
Their staff is knowledgeable and comfortable with treating you more like a long lost friend than a customer. They joke around and some even make your coffee look pretty with an extra flair with your foam. Their cups are humongous, at least their eating in ones are. Although I do cringe, very much, at sharing the same cup thousands of other people have used, I know they wash them thoroughly. But still I ask for a to go cup.
Their couches are comfortable and their seating is all around every little space they can place a table and a few chairs. Their upstairs seating is great for deep conversation or taking a board game from their selection. It is a great place to mellow out and relax.
I give them 4.5 stars, because I like blended drinks in the summer. Grr.
Mini Chef
For their website, click the link below.
http://www.donkeycoffee.com/
Friday, July 27, 2012
Ruby Tuesdays, Athens Ohio
This, so far, is the hubby's favorite place to eat in Athens. I took him here once as a special treat. He was much more impressed than I was, but it was an ok place to eat.
Appetizer
He had the Asian Dumplings- Filled with a blend of chicken and seasonings, then steamed and seared. Served with sesame-peanut sauce.The dumplings were good, he quiet enjoyed them, being almost obsessed with pretty much all dumplings. I hardly ever like any I don't make myself. For some reason everyone feels the need to make the meat taste like cardamon sausage. The peanut sauce was a little weird with them at first but balanced them out to make the Asian feel complete.
I had the mozzarella sticks. I am a sucker for fried cheese with marinara sauce. I am used to being jipped in this department, even though I can get about a dozen in a box at any Dollar Tree with a freezer section. But there were more cheese sticks than I could even consume. They were delicious. The seasoning wasn't too overpowering but was fantastic if you wanted to eat them by themselves. The cheese was soft and stringy like it should be, not greasy and like taffee like so many other places believe it should be.
Entree
I had the Top Sirloin with creamy mashed cauliflower and spaghetti squash. Now, here is confession time. I am not big on too many veggies. The ones I have grown to like are normally how Chef Autumn makes them at Rhapsody. I love buttered, garlic, sauteed fresh veggies. However, though I hate cauliflower, I was very interested in trying it. It was creamy, but sweet. I didn't finish it because it tasted like it was trying to be a dessert rather than a side for steak.
The spaghetti squash was horrendous. I was told they toss it with some olive oil and put pasta sauce on top. Now, I know spaghetti is in the name, but this is a squash people. Pasta sauce and squash should never go hand in hand. Its like cheese and shell fish, it rarely works out well for anyone. I know the waitress absolutely loved this combination, but even just hearing her describe it made me want to stab her with a fork for liking it. But I tried it anyway. It was bland and bitter. Like I was eating a leaf. Part of it was dried out and crunchy and just plain dull. I added as much salt as I could, trying to make it taste better, and even tossed it around with the steak juices, but this one could not even come back to life with CPR. However the steak was delicious and cooked perfectly, for once. Nicely seared and the seasonings weren't overpowering.
The hubby had the Smokehouse Burger- Topped with aged New York cheddar, applewood smoked bacon, tangy barbecue sauce, and crisp onion rings. Now I work at a restaurant that also has a Smokehouse Burger, so this was some competition, seeing as how I am a grill cook there and make this a million times a day. In comparison, I like this one better. He loves onion rings, and these were perfect. Not greasy, crispy and the onions didn't fall out of the batter. The only disappointing thing about them is that he didn't want to share.
After this, there was no room for dessert. We left pretty satisfied with our meal, for the most part. The waitress was nice and attentive. We spent about $45 here, which I was expecting, yet still cringed at.
All in all I give it 4 stars because the veggies are just gross.
Mini Chef
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Full Brooks Cafe, Nelsonville Ohio
This is perhaps my favorite cafe so far. It is a quaint little place on the corner of the square in Nelsonville and is owned by Miki Brooks (I believe that is her name). They serve fair trade coffee, teas, sandwiches, soup from time to time, pastries and have daily specials.
Although a lot of the food and drinks here are quiet tasty, I do have a usual. Milky Way, blended on hot days, hot on cold days, with soy and no whip, a turkey sandwich on ciabatta with whatever veggies I feel like that day with pesto and mayo. This, I find, is the most delicious lunch ever. Though it does take a while sometimes for the food to be made, it is worth the wait. The staff are friendly and do a good job of making special orders and accommodating finicky customers.
Although the lack of dress code does irk me from time to time, I still come back to this place as a staple cafe whenever I want some small town atmosphere and delicious food. However, if you want to gather a large group of friends, be prepared to either be crowded or go outside, this place only seats about 12 inside.
4.5 stars, always room for improvement.
Mini Chef
The Catalyst Cafe, Athens Ohio
The Catalyst is a mostly vegetarian coffee shop that serves not only coffee but small food items, pastries, etc as well. It serves more natural flavored, organic coffee and the location is beautiful. A two story shop is perfect for this trendy hang out.
Today I ordered an Iced Mocha with soy. I was a bit annoyed at the Barista, which is not usually the case with this shop. She took forever filling my order and stopped several times to attend to pastries and other customers behind me. I was getting impatient because I had a dead line. It upset me that her lack of attention was also being seen in my drink and also that soy milk is an extra $.85 here when all other places are between $.30 and $60. For the $5.14 I spent there, I could have gotten a Venti blended caramel macchiato and a pastry at Starbucks.
However quality and organic and blah blah blah came into play. At first I thought the soy was a little off, but then noticed that the organic chocolate is much more bitter than the dark chocolate I am used to. I eventually settled that it wasn’t bad. The earthy flavors combined with the subtly nutty and richness of the cold espresso brought out the bitterness and dry aftertaste. I am not a fan of overly bitter nor excessively sweet coffee, but I do feel this Barista was leaning more toward the strong bitter taste.
The soy, which normally makes my coffees taste a little like sugar cookies, did nothing to enhance the flavors at all. It just seemed like someone poured the milk from their cereal bowl into my coffee and stirred in instant coffee.
Now I do have to point out that the coffee from this place is normally good. Even though I am more of a fan of the sweetened and flavored variety, the simplicity and organic side is very pleasant. However, with that said, I won’t be getting another mocha iced coffee from here every again. Best stick to my usual, which saddens me :/
I give this place 3 stars for today.
Mini Chef
Lam's Garden, Athens Ohio
Time to delve into my favorite cuisine….chinese. I am a sucker for it and this place is phenomenal. The atmosphere is odd, and this restaurant does employee caucasions, which is something I’ve never seen at an Asian restaurant. The food is amazing. Some of it doesn’t taste like the other places, but they serve, at least everything I got, on huge platters bigger than your face. By the time you are done, about a third of the platter is gone and you are stuffed. I am just glad this place doesn’t play country.
Sadly, this is the only thing I can say about this place. Its good. End of story. But it was here that I was turned onto bamboo shoots. Virtually flavorless unless you add seasonings, they are tender with a slide bite to them. They are in the chicken in garlic sauce, which is my favorite dish here. I recommend this place.
4 Stars.
Mini Chef
Dairy Queen, Logan Ohio
Now, I am not a fan of posting about fast food places unless they really have an impact. Today, July 21, I went to the Logan Dairy Queen. I am not a huge fan: their food is way to expensive and the quality is not usually that great. But this Daisy Queen wasn’t that bad.
I got a Hamburger with ketchup and mustard only, cheese curds, and, if course, Dr Pepper, no ice! I was pleasantly surprised by the meal, except for the amount of cheese curds. The small container which fit into my hands cupped together was not work the 3.29. The hamburger, however, actually had toppings on it, unlike McDonald’s and Burger King where all they do is swipe some condiment on the bun and call it a day. It tasted like someone just pulled it off a charcoal grill. It was the best Dairy Queen sandwich I have ever had. Now the cheese curds, on their local menu, wasn’t that bad. We have them at Bob Evans and I wanted to see if they were similar. The cheese was a little too greasy for me to get them again but the major let down is that they had no marinara sauce. Whoever thought of the idea of serving Ranch Dressing with deep fried cheese should be shot in the knee caps.
Though this experience was more pleasant than anything I’ve every experience in the Nelsonville chain, it wasn’t enough to write about. Speaking of Nelsonville, if you want to wait 20 mins for sub par food that is cold by the time you get it because no one knows what they are doing there, by all means go there.
It was when I was walking out of the store that I got this little nugget. The girl behind the counter, who could not have been more that 17, was talking to a guy that she apparently knew. She said in a very loud voice that she tried Chardonney and did not really like it. This shocked me that a minor would even publicly volunteer this information let alone at work. This was followed by her major saying ” Wait, how old are you? I didn’t think you were 21.” To which the girl shut her mouth and walked away. I laughed to myself at the stupidity of this teenager and pitied the poor man who was subjected to this idiocy. However, I think she will soon be out of a job.
I give this place 3 stars for the chuckle.
Mini Chef
(Some comments were made when I posted this on my Tumblr. I don't post about fast food unless something occurs of which I wish to share. The whole point of this was to mention the girl squawking about alcohol, not really to comment about the over processed chain food.)
Millstone BBQ, Logan Ohio
As a full fledged fan of BBQ, I have to give some props to this place. I love ribs, brisket, pulled pork….just deep southern food. The first time I went, I was in love. The ribs were saucy and tender, the beans were tasty and not mush like most places. And the corn bread….oh my Lord, the corn bread. If I was a prisoner I would request that corn bread for my last meal.
The place feels like hill billy chique, which is a little odd but works. Almost like Texas trying to be fancy. But the uniqueness of it gives it a home style feel. The servers are friendly and surprisingly I am not bitter toward them for not hiring me -_-
Moving on….
I took my now hubby to this place for his birthday dinner. We, of course, got ribs. Now I don’t remember everything I eat everywhere I go so this is not going to be a true summary. The ribs were smoky and flavorful. Almost to the point of fall off the bone. I can’t for the life of me remember what sides we got, but we only wanted ribs, which we got plenty off. For a little po-dink town like Logan, this place is a gem. But if you want amazing, thoroughly knock your socks off bbq, this place has a bit to go. The food was good and the corn bread was heavenly, but there just seemed to be something a little lacking. I don’t remember what exactly but it was like they were almost to the finish line but was stuck on the treadmill.
Now I have had ribs from other restaurants before and these were in the top. If course one place I used to work at dared to serve me MICROWAVED ribs. That is a capital sin in my book. Punishable by death. ;) But the Millstone is a good place. Friendly and clean with unique taste in bathroom decor.
All in all I give this place 4 stars
Mini Chef
The Coffee Cup RIP, Nelsonville Ohio
Throughout all of my dining experience, one has been lost in the back of my mind. The Coffee Cup, once a great hangout for me and my college friends, was burned to the ground by a grease fire about a year or two ago. We were devastated by the news and I assume the owners are cutting their losses and not attempting to rebuild or relocate. It was a quaint place, though the decor was lacking. It was like a garage sale threw up on one site and Amish business people designed the other side. The servers were all teenage cell phone abusers but most were nice and attentive. Depending on who was working that nice depended on the quality of food. It ranged from good to fabulous. The chicken alfredo and another dish that I cannot remember the name of were my go-tos. The nameless dish had pasta with chicken, tomatoes, herbs, cheese and olive oil. Sadly that is all I remember if it. The chicken alfredo was heavenly. The sauce was creamy and cheesy, which I love in my alfredo sauces. The only thing I did not like about the dishes was that whoever was plating them felt the innate need to dump large amounts of parsley on the rim of the plate. Now, these rims were 3-4” wide. That is a lot of wasted parsley.
We did have some dislikes about the place: one waitress served our vegetarian friend chicken and when she was told, again, that she was vegetarian she responded with “well can’t you just take the chicken off?”. Needless to say we did not tip her nearly as well as we did everyone else. They only toasted bread on one side. It was annoying seeing as how it was toast, not toasted bread.
But we loved it there. The coffee was ehh but we stayed for at least 4 hours. We knew we annoyed them but we left generous, and creatively folded tips. That was another thing of ours, folding our tips in origami or just weird ways. We balanced two forks on quarters, creating an entire airplane scene.
Despite the flaws, we loved this place. Endless coffee and they never kicked us out, no matter how routy we were. We even left messages for them on our checks before we left.
All in all, I give this place 4 stars :)
Mini Chef
Leghorns, Athens Ohio
This is one that the hubby and I differ on. He liked the flavor and quality of the food. But left still hungry.
This place feels like its trying to be a pizza shop version of Applebees. A little confusing, but it might work. The first, and only time we visited this place, I was grievously disappointed. The servers, all females from what I could see, was more interested in themselves and their facebook than actually doing their jobs. We never received any refills….. of water, which was ok because the amount of food they gave us would have been able to be washed down with a drought. The $6 sandwich was about as big as my hand, and I’m 5’2”. For around the same price, you can get 5 onion rings or 4 cheese sticks. My sandwich, the chicken parm, was ok but the cheese made it taste like something was disturbingly off. The hubby’s chicken cordon bleu was sub par. The only thing delightful about this place were the creative names for the menu items. So, for a good laugh the the food, I would suggest this place. If you are hungry, go elsewhere.
I give this place one star. For the menu names.
Mini Chef
Rhapsody, Nelsonville Ohio
Ahh, Rhapsody. I am fond of this place, and might be a lot biased to the food here. I interned, I guess you can say, two quarters during my education. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and being trained by Chef Autumn Wallace. She is amazing at what she does and, in my opinion, does not get enough recognition for her work. It is a difficult job to maintain a well oiled machine with temporary employees taking the reigns every 3 (now 4-5) months.
However, lets stick to food here. On the day of our wedding, my husband and I made reservations for a romantic chef tasting. Being very picky eaters, we were a little nervous about what Chef would present. To our delight, the 5 course meal was phenomenal.
We received Boursin Cheese with hand made herb crackers when we first arrived. The cheese, which is house made, was creamy and the right blend of salty and fresh herbs. The crisp crackers made an excellent dipping tool to shovel in the cheese.
The beer pretzels with cheese fondue was to die for. I know Chef spent a lot of time trying to match the right beer for the pretzels. I myself have hand made these in the kitchen and know how pain staking they are. The fondue was smokey and salty, an excellent cohort with the pretzels.
Then, then appetizer. For the life of me, I cannot remember everything that was in this dish. It was flank steak, I believe, with crispy tortilla shells. It was a version of the appetizer Chef made for the Spring menu. However, since the hubby loathes beans with every fiber of his being, she omitted the foul creatures. This dish was fantastic. The beef and tortillas worked well with each other.
The salad course: Spinach salad with pecans, blue cheese, fuji apples with an orange vinaigrette. The hubby bore with this one. He does not like blue cheese, or vinaigrettes but he liked the salad despite of it. I quiet enjoyed it. My only disappointment is that Rhapsody has the most delicious Walnut Vinaigrette. I would drink a whole vat of it if I could.
I believe around this time was the Rosemary focaccia bread with garlic infused olive oil. I have never been a fan of dipping my bread into oil. I have enough oil on my skin, I don’t need more to remind me that my skin has no idea that I am no longer a teenager. The bread, however, was scrumptious. Soft on the inside, crunchy on the outside. Sprinkled with chopped Rosemary, kosher salt and brushed with….yup, olive oil.
The entree. Odes could be made for this entree. The first, and only person to convince me that sweet potatoes could tastes like something else besides dirt. A 10 spice encrusted fillet mignon on top of a sweet potato puree with baby carrots and asparagus. Now, the only thing on this dish I would like is carrots, and I don’t even like cook carrots if they are not in soup. This is where I believe Chef has a true gift. All of those ingredients meshed so well together that both of us had no problem scarfing down everything on the plate.The plan juices of the beef made the puree exquisite. The asparagus was crisp enough to not be soft and limp but soft enough to not be raw. The carrots were sauteed in butter with salt and pepper and were amazing.
Now, for dessert. Before I get on with this particular course, I must confess that I was in my baking lab that quarter and had been working on menu development. I was tickled pink when my mystery basket dish can in second in the competition and thrilled when 3 of my desserts I worked on because 3 of 5 desserts on the menu. Moving on….we were delighted to find chef had created a root beer float with marshmallow ice cream, an extra large beignet, and strawberry mint sauce. The hubby did not like the sauce, which disappointed me because that was my recipe. (I found out later they were using too much mint.) But the other two components were fabulous. For those of you who do not know, a beignet is a New Orleans donut. It is pate choux that is deep fried and dredged in powdered sugar.
All in all, this experience was one of a life time. Being pampered by people I call friends was to die for. We even had sparkling grape juice, a play on champagne. It was work every penny and we are definitely planning on returning for another chef’s tasting.
I give the experience 5 stars!
Mini Chef
Rolling the Ball
Food has always been a passion of mine but when I find myself twiddling my thumbs at a seamlessly dead end job, I begin to wonder where I am going. Already educated in the Culinary and Pastry Arts, I thought to myself “Where is this escalator of so called destiny think its taking me?” Now, those of you who have the privilege of know me personally can attest that I am, indeed, extremely opinionated. I love to give people my answer about anything, no matter what the topic is. I thought to myself “Face Palm! Food…..opinions…..critic!” And VOILA! Food Critic!
So this is my first, in many admissions, to my new food blog. Now, because my budget is…..limited, finer places will be difficult to review. (Meaning I is poor). But I am sure this will change.
I love to cook and I love to eat. These truths I hold to be self-evident. I have been to amazing fine-dining establishments and have also waited 15 minutes in line at the nearest McDonald’s. However, even fast food deserves recognition and accurately based remarks of anger.
So come one, come all, to this tragic affair. I will be posting blogs, regularly is the hope, of where and what I have had the delight of obtaining or the punishment of receiving.
Mini Chef
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