Thursday, February 24, 2011

Baked French Toast- Recipe

Overall Rating: 3.65

He said: 3.5 This dish definitely has potential but I think where we might have dropped the ball was in waiting too long to bake it. We (a.k.a. she) made it friday night for the next morning but we arrived at our destination too late in the day to justify baking french toast so we put it away for Sunday morning. If you're serving a finickey eater (like my brother) be sure to negotiate the sogginess issue as the middle of this dish tended to be a bit eggy. The redeeming aspect of this dish was the DELICIOUS praline topping via (my side mistress) Paula Dean that was rich enough to substitute for the maple syrup (which I used just for good measure). If this had not been a community dish and we were not feeding 7 other people I would have definitely gone back for 3rds/4ths/5ths/etc...

She said:  3.8 This was relatively easy to make, and seemed to please the crowd. We were heading up to the mountains for the weekend, and I wanted something easy to pop in the oven, and to feed a group of people (kids AND adults). I did alter it a little bit, as Paula Dean isn't the healthiest of cooks {whatevs}, but most of it remained the same. See recipe below.

Price: $

Level of easiness: Easy

Good for: Big groups, brunch, families, friends

Would we make it again?: Heck yes

Date tried: 2/19/2011


Recipe adapted from Paula Dean, but altered (photo via):

Ingredients:
  • 1 loaf French bread
  • 6-7 large eggs
  • 1.5 cups half-and-half
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Dash salt
  • Praline Topping (see recipe below)
  • Maple syrup (I didn't add it to mine, but Buddy the Elf Kevin did)
Praline Topping:
  • 1/2 pound (2 sticks) butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and blend well.
  • (this recipe makes more than enough to cover the entire casserole; I didn't use all of it)
Directions:
  • Slice french bread into 17-20 slices, apx. 1-inch each. Fill a buttered 9 by 13-inch flat baking dish with the slices in 2 rows, overlapping the slices. 
  • In a large bowl, combine the eggs, half-and-half, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt and then wisk until blended but not too bubbly.
  • Pour mixture over the bread slices, making sure all are covered evenly with the milk-egg mixture. Spoon some of the mixture in between the slices (This is really important!).
  • Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
  • The next day, preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Spread Praline Topping evenly over the bread and bake for 40 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden. Serve with maple syrup.
Notes:

Make sure that you cut the bread into thick slices, or else the casserole will be watery (thicker slices will soak it up). The next morning before putting it into the oven, spread the liquids around to ensure that all of the bread is covered, and that it's not swimming in juices. Don't underbake, or it becomes soggy.

Enjoy!

Plum's Cafe- Costa Mesa, CA

Overall Rating: 4

He said: I was happily surprised by this diner that's been in my backyard for over a decade and I never knew about it. Granted when we indulged I was entirely hung over but the food was just what the doctor ordered. The Dutch Baby is definitely meant to impress newcomers but, as Reese said, it is a bit much for a single individual and in my opinion was too rich (lemon juice, powdered sugar AND syrup? C'mon). We decided to share both dishes as the Baby takes a little less than a half hour so when my eggs benedict came out first I "voluntarily" shared it.

She said: I really liked this place. Everyone's dishes looked delicious, and made me want to go back. We shared the famous Dutch Baby pancake and eggs benedict (see review below), and I was more than full and happy. It's a very unassuming restaurant tucked away in the corner of a strip mall, but it's a little gem.

Price: $$

Ambiance: Family-friendly, cool

Good for: groups, brunch, families, friends, post-party hangover relief

Would we go again?: Heck yes

Date visited: 1/1/2011 (Saturday)

Special notes: Outdoor patio available.


Our order: Their famous Dutch Baby- This is a deep dish pancake with lemon and powdered sugar. It was pretty stinkin' delicious, but I probably wouldn't get it again, unless I was taking someone here for their first time. It's huge and rich and tasty (a la Kobe Bryant; sorry Kev), but it's just a lot to take in for breakfast. But as we went here the day after New Year's Eve, we were looking for something greasy and unhealthy. It's a fun order to share with people, but definitely not to order on your own. Unless you're Kevin. This also takes about 25 minutes for them to make, so either place your order the second that you arrive, or order something else to tide you over.

We also shared their eggs benedict, which was muy delicioso.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Haven Gastropub - Orange, CA

Overall rating: 3.2
He said: (generous) 3- The definition of a conflict of interest; on the one hand my black truffle-infused mac & cheese  was delicious (rich cheesiness married to hearty macaroni in oven-baked perfection) and selection of imported brews was awesome. Reese's brussel sprouts were outstanding (although I would have never thought to order them myself) and I happily cleaned up her leftovers. There was no problem with the food BUT...
A less-than educated remark from our ignorant waiter ("you been drinkin' tonight fella?" [no]) and another requisite that Reese's 14 year-old sister (Ally) wake-up from her napping on her older sister's shoulder ("it's not good for appearances") put a sour taste in my mouth that ruined the experience. I will not recommend a return visit to this otherwise yummy destination.

She Said: 3.5- As Kevin said, the service was awful the last time that we went, but giving them the benefit of the doubt, the other times that I've been there, it has been fine. I actually really like Haven (despite this experience), and will most likely go back. Their food has always been bomb, and their beer selection, even better (although drinks can get pricey). I've had their brussels sprouts (see review below), their mac n cheese (a must-have), truffle fries (bomb), flatbread (meh), and a few different wines and beers (the strawberry one is so delish). I'll most likely be back, especially since it's in my favorite place, Old Town Orange.

Price: $$

Ambiance: College crowd (located down the street from Chapman University), bar crowd at night, on the outskirts of the Orange Circle.

Good for: Wide beer selection

Date visited: January 2011 (Saturday night)

Notes: It gets super packed here, so you may be waiting a while- get a drink at the bar while you wait. Kitchen is open pretty late.

Would we go again?: If our meal was getting paid for by someone we don't especially appreciate - maybe

Restaurant Website: http://www.havengastropub.com/
Chariese's order: Brussels sprouts with prosciutto and lemon juice. I am a huge sprouts fan, and this one was no exception. It was delicious. I'll admit that the mac n cheese is better, but I don't even want to know it's caloric content...so I'll continue making suggesting that people that I go with to the Haven order the mac n cheese so that I can pick off of their plate and not feel guilty indulging in one of my own.
Kevin's order: Mac n' Cheese- black truffles, gruyere, fontina, parmesa. Don't know if I would have included these ingredients in my own home-made concoctions but this shit was fuckin' delicious (excuse my French but it's quite necessary considering there was ZERO meat in this meal).


Don't let these smiles fool you, we were straight mean-muggin' that rude waiter.

We forgot to take pics this last night that we went, but all photos are courtesy of Yelp. 'cept for that dashing glamour shot of us. That's from fordmodels.com (jk).

Old Vine Cafe- Costa Mesa, CA

Overall Rating: 4.5

He said: 5-Despite our unwritten rule about not visiting the same restaurant twice I have advocated revisiting this place multiple times - the perfect balance between a hearty & filling meal contrasted with a complexity of flavor that is difficult to replicate. My omelet Espana was a little different than what I expected (with the healthy vegetables and what-not) but was delightfully surprised and summarily vacated my plate. Playing clean-up on Reese's Italian Quiche was the cherry on-top as she eats like a 6 year-old and never finishes her meal. Knowing what sort of work they put into their breakfast we HAVE to get back for lunch and/or dinner another time.

She said:  4-One of our favorite hidden gems, this place is g-r-e-a-t. The ambiance is so so wonderful, and makes you feel so at ease. The staff is warm and not all up in yo grill. We sat at the bar stools at the front of the restaurant, making it outdoor/indoor seating, and loved it. I loved the creative menus, and the fact that you were given your own carafe of water at your table (pictured below). I ordered the quiche and coffee, both of which were perfect (see review below). I've recommended this place to multiple people, and will definitely be back.

Price: $$

Ambiance: Casual, quiet, relaxing

Good for: All ages; small restaurant- not good for large groups. Impressing your friends with your knowledge of restaurants that can't be seen from the street.

Would we go again?: Heck yes

Date visited: 1/23/2011 (Saturday)

Special notes: Management had set out a flier for a five-course "dining experience" that sounded excellent after having experienced their bfast so I suspect they do specials every now and again. They also have a tasting menu and pretty extensive wine list. We'll be baahck.

Restaurant website: http://www.oldvinecafe.com/

Chariese's order (pictured above): Italian Quiche (Italian sausage and gouda cheese). I really liked this, and even though it looks small, it's very filling (Kevin happily scarfed down my left overs). The crust was perfectly flaky, and the sausage and cheese were a perfect combo. The side of potatoes and dried fruit really complimented the cheesy and meaty quiche. I probably wouldn't order this for breakfast again (it was a little heavy {not true} for my preferred fruit and oatmeal breakfast), but I had zero complaints. The coffee came with a little nummy cookie which was delicious.

Kevin's order: Omelet EspaƱa (Prosciutto, Artichoke, Red Bell Peppers, Mushrooms & Fresh Manchego Cheese) - LOTS of food that you can either scarf or take your time to analyze and appreciate. Our selections were both fail-safes but expect that other selections are just as delicious as our pre-ordering intelligence gathering produced some tasty sights.

Upper West- Santa Monica, CA

Overall Rating: 3
He Said: I have probably driven past this restaurant more times than I care to recognize and the only reason I made it was because she recommended it (as always). The parking situation is a little hectic (if you don't care to pay for the valet you have to battle for parking on busy Pico). Once we were seated the service was attentive, the drinks "good" and the food somewhat forgettable. If I were out for drinks with a larger group of friends or got a late-night hankering for something to eat (as most food is more agreeable when under the influence) I would promote this spot. I would not reorder either of our selections and would instead try the Seared Tuna.
She said: While the food was good at Upper West, I think it's their great drink specials, fun atmosphere and eclectic menu that would bring me back. I had their corn chowder (see review below) and we split a bottle of wine because we're drunkards young and fun. The waiter (young hipster type in late 20's) was super attentive and friendly.
Price: $$
Ambiance: Dark, cozy, busy

Good for: Mid-20's/30's crowd, dinner date, drinks
Would we go again?: Probably/maybe with a group of friends
Date visited: 2/8/2011 (Tuesday)

Special notes: Their happy hour goes until 10 (!!) on Mondays! And all wine bottles are 50% off on Tuesdays! They have a cool indoor patio type of room where they show classic movies. It seemed like a fun place to chat, drink and mingle.

Restaurant website:  http://www.theupperwest.com/



 Kevin's order: Meatloaf sandwich because he's white with a side of french fries.

Chariese's orderRoasted corn soup with black bean falafel. I thought it was good; the falafel added an unexpectedly tasty touch. I probably wouldn't order it again, but I was satisfied. I'm not much of a meatloaf lover, but preferred Kevin's order to mine (as per usual). Especially the fries.

Bandera- Corona del Mar, CA

Overall Rating: 4

He Said: Bandera is quality American cuisine with the setting to match - I've been going to this place for years and have always enjoyed both the food and the ambiance. Last time I got the Filet Mignon and it was perfect. A cozy bar, outdoor waiting area with fireplace and zero corking fee amount to a solid go-to when hosting out-of-towners.

She said: I've never been disappointed by Bandera. When Kevin and I went, we ordered their delicious artichoke as an appetizer (please note that Kevin ate the entire pokey leaf. THE ENTIRE POKEY LEAF. Sendin' him back to his farm next week). I'm boring and ordered the macho salad with roasted chicken, avocado and dates. It was tasty, but I'd order something more fun next time. His filet was derricious (that's what she said).
Price: $$$

Ambiance: Low lighting and clean borders dividing the central bar area from the dining areas amount to an impressive setting where one might easily be under-dressed. You will definitely receive the service you deserve for the price.

Good for: All ages, big groups, nice dinner date, drinks

Would we go again?: Heck yes

Date visited: 12/31/2010 (Saturday)

Special notes: Nice outdoor seating area; right in the heart of Corona Del Mar. Reservations recommended.


Before our New Year's Eve dinner at Bandera. We fancy, huh?
Sadly, we did not take pictures of our meals (we we're just too busy staring dreamily into eachother's eyes!! jk barf), but their bar and drinks were just as great. I had a martini, and Kevin had a cranberry vodka. Both were priced as any nice bar would price their drinks (between $10-$13).

Monday, February 21, 2011

La Galette Creperie - San Clemente, CA

Overall Rating: 4

He said: 4- High on taste and low on quantity: you're definitely not going to walk away stuffed but if you take your time with this meal you will be satiated nonetheless. I regret the "Sunday Brunch" selection and would have preferred the bacon & egg option but her berry crepe was BITCHIN'!

She said: 4- must-go if you're in the area. So delicious and so cute. Get the berry crepe!!

Price: $$

Ambiance: Casual, beautiful ocean front views, small and cozy

Good for: All ages; small restaurant- not good for large groups

Would we go again?: Heck yes

Date visited: 2/21/2011 (Monday, holiday)

Special notes: Cash only, but there is an ATM two doors down


Outdoor ocean front dining (there is also indoor seating).
Chariese's order: Berry Crepe with creme fraiche and a latte
OMGSOINLOVE.  This is hands-down the best crepe that I've ever had, Kevin agreed. The creme fraiche that filled the crepe, blended so well with the fresh berries. And with my mouth. I was so sad to finish. Next time, I'm not sharing with Kevin and his huge bites. Sorry bout it. Latte was good, nothing too extraordinary.
Kevin's order: The Sunday Brunch (smoked salmon-filled crepe with a dill creme and red onion), a latte and coffee.
Kevin's a meat-eater, and calls any meal that lacks meat, "rabbit food". Even with this, he still enjoyed my GurLy CrEpE to his fishy one. Although it was tasty, it paled in comparison.