Keith's Travel Page

Miscellaneous Honolulu, Hawaii Advice

2011-08-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

I went to Hawaii on business months ago, and have decided to turn some scraps of paper into a post so that I can remember what my local colleagues recommended. Each one of these little trips would be the better part of a day, and assumes that you are starting in ending in Honolulu. Business trips will tend to place you in Honolulu, but if you are on vacation research the other islands.

1) Beautiful sunsets or just nice scenery. Take H1 until you come to a dead end in approx one hour. Kaena Point.

2) North Shore: shaved ice, shrimp trucks. H1 to H2 past Dole plantation to Haleiwa, consider following coast back to Honolulu.
3) H1 to Hawaii Kai, continue to Makapuu, continue to Waimanalo Beach & Kailua. Return via H3, Pali, or "Likelike Highway (Rt 63).

Also, stumbled upon this hike on TV. Sounds tough, but worth trying once. Koko Head.

My colleague recommended Hau Tree. Seems to get mixed reviews, but she liked it.

Ha Giang

2011-07-29T06:53:00.000-07:00

Wonderful article in New York Times about Ha Giang.

International Train Travel

2011-07-25T14:07:00.001-07:00

I've always had good luck with this site, and I used it successfully to plan train travel from southern China to Hanoi a couple of years ago. It is striking how often it comes up higher on google than the proprietary train company sites.

www.seat61.com

Breathtaking Sandwiches in NOLA

2011-07-24T14:38:00.001-07:00

Don't be fooled. Not all Po-Boys are created equal. The best I have had is Parkway. It is worth the trip outside the Quarter.

Right in the Quarter try Central Grocery for their famous Muffaletta.

Central Grocery

Rudy Maxa Travel

2011-07-24T14:33:00.000-07:00

I removed this from my main blog because I didn't think it belonged there, but I like some of the podcasts.

Rudy Maxa's Blog

Yellow Moutain

2011-07-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

I saw this in the background on a friend's facebook page. The caption showed only the chinese characters 黃山. That was enough to find it ... Yay Google!

It is now on my list.

Cafe Amelie

2011-07-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

This has become my favorite place in New Orleans. Breakfast is my favorite meal, and I love the weekend brunch here. And, critically, the coffee is very good. I usually get something breakfast and a salad. Or soup with something more breakfast. I have managed to go on almost every trip.

Cafe Amelie

Louisiana Bistro

2011-07-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine has been living in New Orleans part time for a few months. I sought out a place that he hadn't tried yet. We did well. This was was small, traditional place, with good old comfort food. The gumbo gets high marks. It is right in the quarter, but doesn't seem to attract the tourists. You just can't go wrong.

Louisiana Bistro

Great little neighborhood Thai in SF

2011-03-20T10:54:00.000-07:00

I got a bit lost in a cute neighborhood in SF, and literally stumbled upon this place.

Thep Phanom

Secret Restaurants of Celebrity Foodies - Budget Travel

2011-01-19T08:48:00.000-08:00

Secret Restaurants of Celebrity Foodies - Budget Travel

Triangle Area Mexican

2011-01-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

Street Food

Taqueria La Poblana

Great Brunch in Baltimore

2011-01-15T09:26:00.000-08:00

Miss Shirley's

The Real Castles of Ireland - Budget Travel

2011-01-15T09:03:00.000-08:00

The Real Castles of Ireland - Budget Travel

African Safari Treehouse

2011-01-15T05:49:00.001-08:00

Where the Wild Things Are

WSJ Big Sur Article

2011-01-15T05:41:00.000-08:00

Take Monday Off - WSJ Off Duty

My Kuala Lumpur Is Better Than Yours - Budget Travel

2011-01-14T21:26:00.000-08:00

My Kuala Lumpur Is Better Than Yours - Budget Travel

Scouting Report 2008: Tanabe - Budget Travel

2011-01-14T19:05:00.000-08:00

Scouting Report 2008: Tanabe - Budget Travel

Morocco - Budget Travel

2011-01-14T19:02:00.000-08:00

The Coast Is Clear - Budget Travel

Four Italy Articles - Budget Travel

2011-01-14T19:01:00.000-08:00

The Town That Became a Hotel - Budget Travel

5 Ancient Villages Are Back in Business - Budget Travel

Trattoria Heaven in Tuscany - Budget Travel

Italy: 6 Ways to Spend the Night - Budget Travel

Good Dim Sum near Dallas

2010-10-22T04:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.kirincourt.com/

Turns out Richardson, TX is filled with good Chinese food options - who knew?

Okonomiyaki in Honolulu

2010-10-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

http://www.chibohawaii.com/

GREAT sandwiches in Honolulu

2010-10-19T15:09:00.001-07:00

Andy's Sandwiches. This place is great. It is super casual, the kind of place you go to grab a sandwich and seek out a picnic table, or take on a hike.

Beautiful Art House Movie Theatre in DC Area

2010-04-26T06:40:00.001-07:00

I have never posted a movie cinema, but this one is special. It has near constant revivals, and special movie series.

AFI Silver in Silver Springs

Ottawa Charcuterie

2010-04-23T06:57:00.002-07:00

Murray Street Charcuterie

This place is great. I have always enjoyed their dinner choices, but you can also just enjoy meats and cheeses. They have a unique poutine, which isn't really just inspired by poutine, but is really great. Also their brunch is great.

Oren's Coffee

2010-04-23T06:57:00.001-07:00

http://www.orensdailyroast.com/

There is one not far from the Met.

Grey Dog Coffee in NYC

2010-04-23T06:56:00.001-07:00

http://thegreydog.com/

Cool Store in NYC

2010-04-23T06:55:00.001-07:00

http://theendofhistoryshop.blogspot.com/

Vietnamese Food in Atlanta

2010-04-15T16:39:00.001-07:00

There is a specific neighborhood in Atlanta that you should seek out of Vietnamese food. I chose Pho Bac, but there are many choices in the same strip mall.

http://www.yelp.com/biz/pho-bac-atlanta

More on the neighborhood and Buford Highway in general can be found here:

http://www.atlanta.net/dining/buford.html

Great German food on Rt. 81 in Virginia

2010-04-15T16:23:00.000-07:00

Edelweiss Restaurant is in rural western Virginia just off Route 81. If you are driving in the area make a point to incorporate a meal here. It would be a shame to surrender to the fast food options on Route 81 during a long trip if you were anywhere near here during dinner time.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g58210-d662481-Reviews-Edelweiss_Restaurant-Staunton_Virginia.html

Outstanding Korean in Baltimore

2010-04-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

I have made numerous trips to Nak Won. It is just outstanding. One of the great things about Nak Won, and Korean restaurants is the side dishes. Here, you expect lots of them, and you can look forward to them all being good. My friends and I really enjoy the pancakes. These are savory pancakes, with tons of vegetables - they are nothing like breakfast pancakes. One pancake is more than enough for two, and will satisfy three with all the free side dishes. If you are dining alone, consider a nice soup. I feast on the side dishes, and take the soup home. You simply can't go wrong here. Enjoy!

http://www.citypaper.com/eat/review.asp?rid=12523

http://www.yelp.com/biz/nak-won-korean-restaurant-baltimore

http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/31/351854/restaurant/Charles-Village/Nak-Won-Baltimore

Great Brazlian in Roanoke, VA

2009-08-26T18:48:00.000-07:00

Yes. Roanoke. The family is from Brazil, and this is the real deal.

http://www.carlosbrazilian.com/

Michelin star in SF

2009-08-26T17:15:00.000-07:00

http://www.rangesf.com/

Great Brunch in SF

2009-08-26T17:14:00.001-07:00

http://www.zunicafe.com/

Thai in San Fran

2009-08-26T04:16:00.000-07:00

I have only been here once, but it was good.

http://www.lersros.com/

Three outstanding cheap places in NYC

2009-08-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

El Centro - go for the Pozole.

http://www.elcentro-nyc.com/entrees.htm

Mooncake

http://www.mooncakefoods.com/

Two Boots pizza. I know the one in the village, but it is so good I would try any location.

http://www.twoboots.com/

Food, Lodging, etc. in Louisville, KY

2009-08-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of expensive B&B's in the historic neighborhood. This one is half as much, and is very nice. It is not a historic home, but very comfortable with a nice breakfast.

http://www.thegalleryhouse.com/

This German restaurant is just outstanding. It is VERY traditional, and reasonably priced. It is a strip mall - you would never discover it without help.

http://www.gasthausdining.com/

This historic home is worth a visit. I am related to the former owners, but it claim to fame is that Lincoln visited the family for several weeks before he was president.

http://www.historichomes.org/farmington/

Great German in Hagerstown

2008-12-30T07:24:00.001-08:00

www.schmankerlstube.com

Great Pre Fixe in DC: Obelisk

2008-12-25T16:42:00.001-08:00

Obelisk

2029 P St. NW
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-872-1180

Cuisines:
Italian

Good fine dining choice in DC: Equinox

2008-12-25T16:31:00.000-08:00

http://www.equinoxrestaurant.com/

You just can't go wrong with this place. Just attended a multi-course with wine pairing. It was a good value with them charging a typical pre fixe price, but including the pairing. Other places can add much more for the pairing. I have been a dozen times, and always enjoy it. If you are there for lunch, or are brave enough to order off the menu, try the mac and cheese (truffles).

Lao Sze Chaun

2008-12-25T16:27:00.001-08:00

Lao Szechuan

Chicago's Chinatown. VERY traditional. If you are tired of Americanized Chinese food then give this a try.

Amish Food, comfort food, and B&Bs in PA

2008-12-25T16:19:00.000-08:00

This place was great. It is the real deal. Buffet or a la carte. Try some of the smoked meats. Make sure it is open. Closed during winter.

http://www.stoltzfusmeats.com/stoltzfus_farm_restaurant.php

Two B&Bs in Lititz:
www.aldenhouse.com
www.speedwellforge.com (this one is next door to a wolf preserve with tours on weekends).

This is further away from the heart of Amish country (an hour away!), but resembles Cracker Barrel on steroids. Lots of big buses, but food and service are great if you feel like having comfort food. There is even a Best Western named after it. Strictly if you are in the mood.
www.countrycupboardinc.com

Two good Thai

2008-12-06T16:58:00.000-08:00

http://www.menupages.com/restaurantdetails.asp?neighborhoodid=0&restaurantid=3892

Wondee Siam ($$)
Thai Restaurant
Thai

792 9th Ave, New York 10019
Btwn 52nd & 53rd St

http://www.seeda2.com/

Seeda II
309 W. 50th St
Between 8th and 9th Ave.

B Smith

2008-12-06T16:55:00.001-08:00

http://www.bsmith.com/restaurant_ny_home.php

Cafe Cluny

2008-04-20T06:10:00.000-07:00

http://www.cafecluny.com/

I have seen some mixed review, and I don't get it - I think it is great.

2 Asian In DC

2008-04-20T06:08:00.000-07:00

Bua Thai: http://thaicuisine.com/r/0130.html

http://ricerestaurant.com/

AKI on West 4th

2008-04-19T17:45:00.000-07:00

http://members.aol.com/akiw4/

Get there right at 6PM for a great pre fixe meal and half the price you would pay at 7PM. Don't worry, you can enjoy your meal until 8 - they don't kick you out at 7PM! Oh ... and they have Jamaican items on the menu too. Check it out.

Sugiyama

2008-04-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

Sugiyama specializes in modern Kaiseki, multi-course meals. Think of it as Japanese 'pre-fixe'. Sushi is always included, and it is uniformly excellent, but it is not only sushi. Steak served on a hot stone is typically one of the courses. I have been about 4-5 times, and it is always outstanding. I have never been disappointed.

Jalisco Cafe

2008-04-19T17:40:00.000-07:00

http://www.jaliscocafe.com/

Outstanding!

Taka

2008-04-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

Many more reviews of sushi restaurants and I could have a spin-off page!

TAKA is truly outstanding. It is in the gaslamp neighborhood of San Diego - a city I underestimated on my first visit some years ago. I am not usually one for rolls, but the rainbow roll I shared with a friend was just great. A real standout was the Abalone I ordered - simply delicious. The selection of sashimi was some of the best I have had in North America. However, the highlight of the meal was "cold shabu shabu". I didn't know it was served cold, but shame on me for not knowing. It was absolutely delicious. You can't go wrong here. You will spend a bit more than some sushi places, but not by much, and certainly less than "fine dining". Several restaurants in the neighbor are more without being better. So a little pricey, but a bargain in the end. Just great.

www.takasushi.com

No Frills Casual Japanese

2008-03-10T19:40:00.000-07:00

This would be a great place for lunch. I arrived just before the end of the lunch menu. They close briefly in the late afternoon between lunch and dinner. Most of the choices are of the bento box, set lunch, variety. It is very reasonably priced and tasty. I did not imbibe, but they seemed to have a great selection of sake and shochu.

Izakaya Ten, 207 10th Avenue, NY, NY, (212)627-7777

Lunch: M-Sa 12 - 3:30 PM

Dinner: M-Sun 5 - Midnight

Sake Bar around the corner from Kanoyama

2008-03-10T19:32:00.000-07:00

The food is strictly bar food while you drink, but this is a fun place. One should not underestimate the pleasure that bar food can bring when the mood is right. Stuff like cold soba, and shumai. It has the feel of hanging out in a close friend's basement. I am not a sake expert by any stretch, but I really enjoyed trying a couple of interesting drinks. One I tried was a cloudy, unfiltered sake. It truly looked like spoiled milk, but was a really great. I couldn't help, but notice how close it is to Kanoyama and Chikalicious. What a great place to go before or after a visit to those two favorites.

www.sakebardecibel.com

Vegetarian in New York

2008-03-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

Before it closed the wonderful Zen Palate in Union Square was my favorite spot when I felt like vegetarian. They have other locations: http://www.zenpalate.com , but the closing made me look out for others.

I have found two. 'Snice is a West Village spot at 45 8th Avenue at West 4th. It is very casual. One orders at the register and they bring it to you. I am not a vegetarian, but I really enjoy any food that is made well. I had a truly great salad with avocado dressing, and a friend had a vegi grilled sandwich. Major bonus: free internet at large common tables. If you don't have your laptop, there are tables reserved for eating only.

Another great choice, which is more in the tradition of Zen Palate is the more formal, yet comfy, Gobo. The food here was just excellent. I just missed the lunch menu by a few minutes. The dinner menu is slightly pricier than you might expect for vegetarian, but everything that we ordered was very good (also, dinners on either side of us like everything they ordered as well). The atmosphere borders on fine dining, but casual enough, and cozy enough, that a spontaneous "what is that you ordered?", doesn't feel out of place. www.goborestaurant.com

Mama's Fish House

2007-12-30T16:21:00.000-08:00

I have been to Maui 4 times. Each time I have gone I have visited Mama's Fish House. I am never disappointed. I would rather eat here once, and live off cold cereal and fish tacos (which are pretty darn good), then spend 1/3 as much on each of 3 dinners. Someone once explained that all the fishermen on the island try to sell their fish here. If it is excellent than this place will pay top dollar. Myth? Maybe, but they have some excellent fish here. The lunch menu has about 8 entrees on it. It changes everyday.

This time, I had the "spear-fish" prepared "upcountry style". I nearly avoided the very flavorful comfort food style preparation fearing that I wouldn't be able to enjoy the fish. Upcountry style involves onions, tomatoes, avocados and more. No concern, here it was delicious. And I love comfort food, anyway. I did a quick calculation and determined that the fish portion of my meal was probably as expensive per ounce as silver, but somehow I didn't mind. I didn't load on a lot of extras and the meal as a whole was reasonable at about $80 including salad, a cocktail and wine. Despite its enormous popularity, some tourists might skip out on the high price tag, and instead eat nightly at Bubba Gump shrimp, and other chains. Not me! Give me my one visit to Mama's and roadside stands instead.

Mama's is found in Paia, not far from the Kahalui (OGG) airport.

http://www.mamasfishhouse.com

Thai in Queens

2007-11-20T07:16:00.000-08:00

SriPraPhai is in Woodside. A bit of train ride for a tourist in Manhattan, but worth it. Still only $2 no matter how long! Tourists and business travelers never get out to the boroughs and it is a shame.

This is really great Thai food. The place is not fancy, but it doesn't matter. A great place to go with a bunch of friends. I saw at least 2-3 three tables that had 6+ diners sharing.

64-13 39th Avenue, Woodside. 718-899-9599. Closed Wed. Near 61th St or 69th St on the 7 Train.

Sichaun in London

2007-11-20T07:10:00.000-08:00

I had one of the best meals I have ever had at this place. The fact that is was a bit hidden away, and was new to me was part of the appeal. A friend in London suggested it. The setting was really nice, but the food ... it was a miracle. If I, personally, only had 24 hours in London, I think I would seek it out. There are other great places in London, to be sure, but I will certainly return here someday to see if they can repeat the performance.

This place that I knew as Snazz Sichaun, New China Club has changed names:

http://www.rednhotgroup.com/

Ess-a-Bagel

2007-11-18T16:04:00.000-08:00

Every visitor to New York (at least when they are awake before noon) will want a good bagel. Try Ess-a-bagel. Be prepared for a line!

http://www.ess-a-bagel.com/

Bangkok

2007-11-18T15:49:00.000-08:00

In bangkok, my two favorite restaurants are Cababges and Condoms, and Eat Me. The names are a bit suprising, and their styles are very different, but both are worth seeking out.

Cabbages and Condoms gets its name from its charity work - please reference their web site. The food is traditional and well done. A dragged a VERY skeptical group of Thai Americans there, and they were very pleased and impressed. I also went with friends from Isaan, and they were shocked that they could get good regional food there. If you are only in Bangkok for a couple of nights, and you want a variety of Thai foods, find this place. Ask the cab drive, while you are still at your hotel! Both restaurants can be hard to find.

http://www.pda.or.th/restaurant/default.asp

Eat Me is a very trendy place with changing gallery exhibist running on the walls. This is the kind of place you go to make a night of it, hang out with friends, and spend 1/4 what you would in New York. Granted that will still be a king's ransom in Baht, but it won't really matter because in dollars (even in 2007), it won't seem like to much of a splurge. So it is all about , oysters, and roast duck, and nice wine, etc. Not a place for traditional Thai food, it is all about the International flavor, and being the guest of your Australia expat host.

Eat Me Hours: Daily 3pm-1am
Address Soi Pipat 2
Location A small street off of Convent Rd. just south of Silom Rd. in the Patpong area, The Business District
Phone 02238-0931

http://www.frommers.com/destinations/bangkok/D54030.html

Little Italy, New York

2007-11-18T15:20:00.000-08:00

When walking through Little Italy one day, I picked this place pretty much at random. I am rehearsed at reading between the lines of menus posted outside restaurants, and it felt right. I ordered the shrimp and biscuits, which is exactly what is sounds like – popcorn shrimp over biscuits with lots of Vincent’s sauce. Be prepared for a choice - sweet, medium or hot. I got hot.

On a return visit, I asked if they were the place with the “shrimp and biscuits”. I had spent 45 minutes reading menus looking for them. Need I elaborate on my enjoyment of the dish the first time? The guys working the front looked at me like I was a crazy person, and I turned to leave. “Of course we serve Shrimp and Biscuits!” I sat at the bar, and the dish arrived in 5 minutes. I ate it in 5 minutes more, and commented to the bar tender that I wanted to end the meal right there. It was perfect. “They have been eating that dish in the kitchen for 100 years”. I inquired further, and learned that everyone at the restaurant eats the dish as their comfort food. You should too.

http://anotherreason.com/vincents/index.html

After a polite pause - afterall I had enjoyed one of the best $10 lunches that NY has to offer. I started looking for a little something before leaving the neighborhood. La Bella Ferrara has little tiny cannoli about the size of your thumb. Little Italy also offers Gelato on the street, and obviously lots of cafes. I havn't tried them all, but many seem touristy to me. Having said that, the cannoli was great. It was always a favorite of mine. So if in the restaurant, you are full, or the deserts are too big, and expensive, find this Pasticceria.

http://www.littleitalynyc.com/labellaferrara/

Sprinkles Cupcakes

2007-11-13T16:57:00.000-08:00

Want to wait in a line that runs down the whole block while waiting to buy cupcakes at $3.25 a piece. Well, welcome to Sprinkles. Believe it or not, it is really worth the trouble. I don't have much of a sweet tooth. For me it is a rare splurge, to really go all out every once in a while. This is worth the wait and the money. Sprinkles is found at multiple locations, but I found them in Beverly Hills.

http://www.sprinklescupcakes.com/index.html

South Street Seaport New York

2007-09-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

I have been visiting NY every few weeks for 10 years, and I just discovered this neighborhood. South St. Seaport is all about smaller, older building and cobblestones. A tiny Nantucket, or Newport right on Manhattan, near the Brooklyn bridge. I tried two restaurants: Aqua and Bararini. There is a Hampton Inn right there, named "Seaport". Aqua was pretty good, although I got take out. Ravioli and white bean salad. Not worth the trip to seaport just for a meal there, but a good choice if you are there for other reasons.

Barbarini is a small deli style place with maybe 6 tables inside, and a couple outside. But ... the "green egg and crudite" sandwich I got there was just great. Pesto and lots of it makes it great, with a nice side salad. I wouldn't have ordered salad, but it turned out to be a perfect late breakfast. The cappuccino was just perfect.

http://www.acquarestaurantnyc.com/

http://www.barbarini.net/

http://www.nywatertaxi.com/

Hampton Inn Manhattan-Seaport-Financial District
320 Pearl Street, New York, New York

Domo Sushi Denver

2007-09-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

I just love Domo Sushi. Seek it out, it isn't the kind of place you would just walk by, or perhaps even notice. It is in what seems to be a big warehouse, but the inside, courtyard, and garden is really great once you enter. Read the web site before you go. And don't ask for Soy Sauce! As the web site explains, most people destroy sushi and sashimi with too much soy sauce and wasabi. The chef at Domo chooses the appropriate seasoning, and as their guest you just follow their lead. I recently returned for a second visit, and got a lunch combo for $25 including drink. Everything was wonderful. So much so, I think it was one of the best lunches I have had in 10 years of business travel.

http://www.domorestaurant.com/index.html

One of the coolest food discoveries ever! Dessert Bars

2007-09-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

A New York friend suggested a dessert bar. I have always enjoyed a short break between dinner and dessert, so why not. I pictured something like the very nice Sweet Lady Jane in LA, but the option in NY is even better.

(Sweet Lady Jane is just fantastic, but it is basically a great bakery with coffee, and tables. ) http://www.sweetladyjane.com/

Chikalicious, in New York, has taken this to the next level. It is a three course, dessert experience. Amuse Bouche, Dessert Entre, and Petite Fours, and ... a wine pairing. Am I overacting? You try it! You will gush also.

I had fig over polenta, with corn ice cream - yes, that was corn ice cream.

All of this, and you get to chat with the chef, Chika, her sous chef, and her husband, while you watch them prepare the dessert in the exposed kitchen. So go ahead, and have the finest meal you can find in all of Manhattan, and then come here. It will have to be pretty amazing to compete with the dessert you'll have.

http://www.chikalicious.com/

Also better than Nobu

2007-09-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

KanoYama is a small space, but the food is great, so who cares? It has a wide variety of sashimi, and has a special daily insert into the menu. It is possible to spend quite a bit of money here if you order everything a la carte, but if you make wise choices, it is a good deal. The Chef's choice menus included really great stuff - probably your best best. I ordered Fugu a la carte, and then enjoyed a Chef's selection that included Toro, Yellow Tail Belly, and other cool suprises off the daily insert. Frankly, the same stuff I would have ordered anyway. Because there are only a few tables, it is best to call ahead. It is in the East Village.
http://www.kanoyama.com/

NOBU versus Tsushima

2007-08-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

I dined with two different friends this week, and for several conspiring reasons ended up at Nobu and Tsushima. They couldn't be more different, and although I enjoyed both meals very much, I am almost certain to return to Tsushima for a 4th time, and might not give Nobu a second try.
Nobu http://www.myriadrestaurantgroup.com/nobu57/index.html, had delicious food, creatively prepared, but its rituals are arcane and seem to get in the way. The menu and pricing is confusing and the portions can be ridiculous. I ate almost every morning in Tokyo's Tsukiji fish market when I visited Japan last year. I ate like a king for the price of a 1/2-ounce Toro appetizer at Nobu. While the small Tsukiji restaurant was nothing much to look at, and I had only unadorned sashimi, I never felt confused or uncomfortable even thought the staff knew absolutely no English. Not a word. At Nobu, I felt both emotions throughout. In Tokyo, I simply rattled off the fish names I knew, and the fish appeared with a deferential "Hai". At Nobu, any question, was greeted with a kind of "you poor thing, let me help you" look. Some info on Tsukiji can be found at: http://www.tsukiji-market.or.jp/youkoso/about_e.htm. The fish market itself is a wholesale market, but great sashimi is to found nearby in all directions.Tsushima, which does not have a website is just outstanding. Please don't order a California roll here; I don't think they would know how to accommodate you. This is like going to a Tapas bar, except, of course, the menu items are Japanese. There is a seasonal menu for the month. I would suggest ordering about 6 or 7 dishes off this menu - you just can't go wrong. Recent examples include BBQ Abalone, Grilled Pork, and Spanish mackerel. Tsushima, http://maps.google.com/maps?q=141+East+47th+street,+new+york,+ny, (212) 207-1938

"Hell's Kitchen" is quite nice, actually

2007-08-27T06:36:00.000-07:00

The Maze is the slightly more casual, less expensive alternative to Ramsey at the London. Both are part of the growing Ramsey empire. Frankly, the shear number of restaurants gave me pause, but Gordon Ramsey, the Hell's Kitchen star, must run a type ship, because dinner at the Maze was outstanding.
The wine list is exceptional and the price, for what you get, is unheard of in Manhattan. There is a $55 4 course, and a $70 6 course. The portions are just a little more generous than typical in a set price, multi-course meal. It might seem odd to note, but if there was any risk of hunger, it is eliminated by the best bread outside of France. Truly, every course was in stiff competition for the best course, with no disappoints during the meal.
Despite the coicendence concerning the name of Ramsey's Fox network hit and the NY neighborhood, the location is a bit east of New York's Hell's Kitchen in the West 50s.
http://www.thelondonnyc.com/gordon_ramsay/maze.cfm

All International Airports should have this!

2007-08-27T06:25:00.000-07:00

At Seoul's Incheon Airport (ICN), there is a "transit" hotel. I just found their web site (it can take a little work) in anticipation of a return stay. It is inside the security area, so it is perfect for a shower and a short rest while on a layover. I actually prefer 6-8 hours to 2-3 hours layovers for situations like this. If my future plans materialize, I will have 3 1/2 hours at ICN westbound, and 11 hours on my eastbound layover. Neither is ideal.
This is how it works. You do NOT exit security, as if to go to baggage claim - that would defeat the whole purpose. In fact, I don't think they can let you back it until a couple hours before your flight! Since you don't exit, you should be in your room within 30 minutes of touchdown. You get a room in 6 hour "blocks". You have all the usual amenities of a small hotel room including alarm clock and/or wake-up. ICN has plenty of good food and shopping, so you need this room only for sleeping lying completely flat, uninterupted, and showered. Each six hour block will set you back about half for what you would pay for a medium priced business hotel. If you have any doubts that you need the rest, you might change your mind after that 11 hour flight!
http://www.airgardenhotel.com/english.htm

Brazil Grill

2007-08-10T14:29:00.000-07:00

This week I found an item on a menu that was really something new. This is nice, and rare too! It was Vatapa. It is described on the web as stew http://www.whats4eats.com/recipes/r_fi_vatapa.php, but at Brazil Grill is was served as a kind of paste (thickened with a starch). It has grilled shrimp on top of the paste, and a generous serving of fish in addition. For a side dish I received rice and beans. My server kindly warned me that this dish was not for everyone - perhaps I didn't look Brazilian? She was sweet about it, but it gave me the impression that it was only for the brave. Well, I am, and enjoyed it. The flavors were a little unusual, and the consistency was too, and I really like it. I would order it again.
http://cityinsights.com/newyork/brazilgrill.htm

ViceVersa

2007-08-10T14:18:00.001-07:00

Just had dinner at a fantastic Northern Italian place in Hell's Kitchen. And don't worry Hell's Kitchen is not like a James Cagney movie anymore. ViceVersa has a clever seasonal menu full of surprises. Ravioli stuffed with cookies?? I didn't have a chance to try that one, but it gives you some idea. I had veal medallions with a parmigiano cheese "fondue". No pot and dip here, just a delicious cream. The wine list was great, and I managed to pick a really good one. This is going to run you about $50-$75 a head (or more depending on the wine), but it is worth it. http://www.viceversarestaurant.com/.

When I get a chance I will try the sister location, http://www.etcrestaurant.com

Hawaiin food near LAX

2007-08-08T14:55:00.000-07:00

On Sepulveda, heading south of LAX (and also south of the SPSS training location in LA), there is a great Hawaiin place. http://www.backhomeinlahaina.com/. I got the Lahaina Platter #1 f0r $13.99 and couldn't quite finish - a lot of food! It was great. I got take out, but it seems nice.

Gahm Mi Oak

2007-08-08T14:32:00.000-07:00

My favorite Korean dish is Bi Bim Bap. It is a rice bowl with lots of Korean vegatables and sometimes meat. At Gahm Mi Oak, there will be meat. I am guessing you could request vegi, if you want. There is always a side of red hot sauce, but kind of thick like ketchup, not thin like Tabasco. I dump in all of it and mix thoroughly. At this restaurant, this is pretty much the only option that is not family style. It always comes with a free side soup (broth really) made from oxtail - don't quote me on the oxtail, as the menu doesn't make this clear. You add scalions and salt to taste. It also comes with cool side dishes including a Kimche that I especially enjoy. It is not a dish that is sure to please me, but I like it at Gahm Mi Oak. It runs $12, and you will have to be hungry to finish it all. Give it a try. 43 W 32nd St New York, NY 10001.

Teriyaki Boy

2007-08-08T14:25:00.000-07:00

This is nothing special, but I go about once on every New York trip. It is Japanese fast food. Rice bowl with chicken a side like sushi, or dumplings. It is just north of Times Sq., so it is about 12 blocks from the SPSS office, but my hotels are usually north of the office too. It is basic, fast comfort food. $10 bucks or less, and you get served right away - take out or eat it - just like an Asian McDonalds. You might find a website, but it rarely seems to work. The location I go to is just south of the corner of 49th and 7th.

Favorite Food in DC .. but with more beer.

2007-08-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

I can be a bit of a foodie, but I most prefer great food enjoyed casually. I happen to think that Marcels is the very finest food in DC. http://www.marcelsdc.com/ When I go, especially since I am typically alone on a business trip, I eat at the bar. The full menu and wine list is available there. It is comfortable, sometimes with a piano playing, and the food is excellent. Now, there is another great choice, but with even more great beer! You see, Marcel's is Belgian. Belgian cuisine is notable for several things, but Belgian beer is first rate as well. http://www.beckdc.com/ is a new restaurant with the same executive chef. It is advertised as being more casual and a bit cheaper. It is both, but I have always found Marcel's itself to have a very reasonable bar menu. At Beck's you have only a bar menu. You can really enjoy either. Beck's - and this is the punchline - also has a beer menu! Tons of interesting beers. Enjoy.

Have a few hours to kill in LA near LAX?

2007-08-04T10:28:00.000-07:00

Maybe you are on a long international layover? Maybe you have several hours before you flight home? Got to LA a day early? Despite the scary traffic, it is not hard to get to "The Getty". It is one of my favorite museums anywhere in the world, and it is free (except a small parking charge). You don't have to be a museum nut to enjoy it, the building, site and view are fascinating in and of themselves.

There is also the Getty Villa in Malibu, but you are supposed to have a reservation. If you don't, mention to the guards that you are in LA for only one day, and they will likely give you a free pass at the gate.

Give yourself 30-45 minutes each way from LAX to the Getty to be safe, but that can include parking, gas, etc. I once had an 8 hour layover, and had time to rent a car, drive up there, and visit for 3 hours or so. It was worth it. Given the time allowed, if I had tried almost anything else in the area, it would not have worked out. For instance, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, or the LACMA in downtown are pretty risky for traffic given even ample time contraints and are best saved for an entire day in the area.

http://www.getty.edu/visit/

Stuck at LAX after class - try Malibu

2007-08-04T10:17:00.001-07:00

SPSS training holds its LA classes near LAX in el Segundo. It is not really near anything. A visitor to this area can not really claim to have visited the area that everyone thinks of as LA. You will find to your dismay that traveling south after class is NOT fun. (I have confirmed the North/South thing with friends as well. Avoid southbound!) Traffic can be remarkably bad in any direction, but I would try going north instead. If you head North on the 405, and then head W on the 10 you are going to end up at the coast. Traffic will be spotty, but hang in there! Take a right on 1 North - the Pacific Coast Highway.

You now have several options. You could try Gladstone's. I think the food is average, but it is close, and the scenary is great. On the way back you could try to figure out where the promenade is in Santa Monica (you passed through this city on the way to the water). If you have more time, or you are up for more of a drive, try heading further North on the PCH to Paradise Cove Cafe, about 16-20 miles north of 10. (I have seen documents that say 16, but my odometer read more like 18 or 19 since it is unclear when they start counting). It is worth the extra miles for the atmosphere even if it is a bit touristy. Both restaurants are over priced for what you get, but I still recommend them. The view of the pacific more than makes up for the good, but ordinary food.

http://www.paradisecovemalibu.com/beachcafe/index.htm

http://www.gladstones.com/