Beneath our building, Barista Parlor opened in the space called "Golden Sound". This is Nashville's best coffee hands down and the food is surprisingly on par with the coffee. The biscuits are crazy delicious. Lots of people who don't like biscuits claim them dry and firm but these defy both of those notions. They're the best biscuits I've ever had and well worth the wait. The combination of Bacon, Egg and Cheese has always been a staple and this is my favorite biscuit.
The coffee is coffee as you would think. I really like they don't serve it blistering hot so you have to wait 5 minutes to enjoy. The presentation and plating is all more than enough for me but it does always come out very good. The atmosphere really sets you up well for the rest of your day. The staff is extremely kind and receptive, the food is delicious and the coffee wakes you up nicely!
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Sunday, November 2, 2014
12 South Taproom and Savarino's
Hello!
12 South Taproom and Savarino's are both located in Nashville. Been to both only once but I will be sure to frequent there again.
Savarino's is an Italian Cucina near Vanderbilt's campus with great homeade Italian food. I saw an episode of Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-in's and Dives and was intrigued. My next trip to Nashville I made sure to visit.
I was greeted by the same man who hosted Guy and he treated me exactly like he did when the cameras were rolling. A wonderful, friendly atmosphere is encompassed with great food. Pizza is my comfort food. When I grew up in Toronto, getting a slice from Pizza Pizza on the corner of nearly any street still sticks out in my memories. They're pizza was fresh and delicious. The simpleness is what really stuck out to me. Nothing fancy, just plain good pizza. Their pasta was delicious also.
Bonus points for challenging me to a game of Bocce ball afterwards as well. Great food and a great place to hang out on the deck on a sunny spring day!
12 South Taproom posseses one of the best quesadillas I've ever had in my life. Again I've only been once but my brother recommended I try the Ribeye Quesadilla and it was fantastic. The bartender suggested it off the bat as well and that made my decision very easy. A little hot with diced jalapenos but a great dish nonetheless. Hummus and toasted pita chips made a smooth and great start to the meal.
Nashville has long been a hot destination for its great nightlife but the food and restaurants are quickly catching up. There is something about this city. Nashville is synonomous for cowboy hats and boots but the times are changing and there is a place for everyone to enjoy something. I prefer to call it eclectic over country!
12 South Taproom and Savarino's are both located in Nashville. Been to both only once but I will be sure to frequent there again.
Savarino's is an Italian Cucina near Vanderbilt's campus with great homeade Italian food. I saw an episode of Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-in's and Dives and was intrigued. My next trip to Nashville I made sure to visit.
I was greeted by the same man who hosted Guy and he treated me exactly like he did when the cameras were rolling. A wonderful, friendly atmosphere is encompassed with great food. Pizza is my comfort food. When I grew up in Toronto, getting a slice from Pizza Pizza on the corner of nearly any street still sticks out in my memories. They're pizza was fresh and delicious. The simpleness is what really stuck out to me. Nothing fancy, just plain good pizza. Their pasta was delicious also.
Bonus points for challenging me to a game of Bocce ball afterwards as well. Great food and a great place to hang out on the deck on a sunny spring day!
12 South Taproom posseses one of the best quesadillas I've ever had in my life. Again I've only been once but my brother recommended I try the Ribeye Quesadilla and it was fantastic. The bartender suggested it off the bat as well and that made my decision very easy. A little hot with diced jalapenos but a great dish nonetheless. Hummus and toasted pita chips made a smooth and great start to the meal.
Nashville has long been a hot destination for its great nightlife but the food and restaurants are quickly catching up. There is something about this city. Nashville is synonomous for cowboy hats and boots but the times are changing and there is a place for everyone to enjoy something. I prefer to call it eclectic over country!
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Kitchen 404
I have been fortunate to dine at great restaurants but Kitchen 404 is my absolute favorite. The whole experience and relaxed aura helps you really enjoy every aspect. The staff is the best at what they do and are one of the reasons I will continue going back. My chiropractor was recently in Nashville and he asked my opinion on where to take his wife for "the best dinner in town". 404 will continue recieving every recommendation.
The servers are amazing! Galen is hands down the best server I've had. Perhaps the only time I've remembered my servers name for a continued period of time. My dad has always raved about him as well.
I don't know how to begin writing about the food because it akes me want to go back so bad. The menu is seasonal and contantly changing, I'll highlight some of my favorites. For starting the Pâté is my favorite, perfect balance and a great starter. The Borruta and Crudo have also been great. I always find myself asking my dad about dishes and trying to learn about food. I probably have asked him about Borruta umpteen times and have driven him nuts by now with my questions. Anything with Benton's Ham will be fabulous as well.
Thr Tri-Tip was incredible. Like I said earlier, Chef Matt Bolus is contantly changing his menu, using what is in season and available in markets to create efficient use of resources and not sacrifice quality. I don't care what they serve with the Tri-Tip it's probably going to be the best meal you ever have. My girlfriend tried the Swordfish and while I may be more of a red meat eater, hers was perfectly matched with a lemon orzo and made great contrasts with the citrus.
If Olive Oil Gelato is on the menu make sure to try it. After you finish in amazement, ask for Sous Chef Sam and thank him personally, that's the best damn dessert you will ever have.
It was Maria's birthday when we ate at Kitchen 404 last and the staff was so kind and made us feel like the only table at the restaurant...on a Summer Saturday at 8:00. You go to Kitchen 404 for great food and leave with a great experience. They are what should be a new model for restauranteurs in the future.
The servers are amazing! Galen is hands down the best server I've had. Perhaps the only time I've remembered my servers name for a continued period of time. My dad has always raved about him as well.
I don't know how to begin writing about the food because it akes me want to go back so bad. The menu is seasonal and contantly changing, I'll highlight some of my favorites. For starting the Pâté is my favorite, perfect balance and a great starter. The Borruta and Crudo have also been great. I always find myself asking my dad about dishes and trying to learn about food. I probably have asked him about Borruta umpteen times and have driven him nuts by now with my questions. Anything with Benton's Ham will be fabulous as well.
Thr Tri-Tip was incredible. Like I said earlier, Chef Matt Bolus is contantly changing his menu, using what is in season and available in markets to create efficient use of resources and not sacrifice quality. I don't care what they serve with the Tri-Tip it's probably going to be the best meal you ever have. My girlfriend tried the Swordfish and while I may be more of a red meat eater, hers was perfectly matched with a lemon orzo and made great contrasts with the citrus.
If Olive Oil Gelato is on the menu make sure to try it. After you finish in amazement, ask for Sous Chef Sam and thank him personally, that's the best damn dessert you will ever have.
It was Maria's birthday when we ate at Kitchen 404 last and the staff was so kind and made us feel like the only table at the restaurant...on a Summer Saturday at 8:00. You go to Kitchen 404 for great food and leave with a great experience. They are what should be a new model for restauranteurs in the future.
Monday, October 6, 2014
Portugal
I've been rather non-committal to this blog but I am going to try my best to keep it up-to-date and sharing my insights better.
I recently was in Portugal for 11 days playing European Tour Qualifying School. What an absolutely beautiful Country! I never would've expected so much from Lisbon and Portugal as a whole.
For the first 9 days we stayed across the Rio Tejo in Alcochete. The city was really cool and had a great view across the Rio while the Lisbon lights danced along the water. I really, really enjoyed this part of Portugal, reminded me lots of parts in the Greater Toronto Area that weren't necessarily considered in the city. The people were some of the most friendly and accomodating I've ever encountered.
My mom and I stayed with a Brazilian lady Marinha who spoke NO english. Sometimes it was a little difficult but she was one of the most caring ladies I've ever met in my life. It was a great experience living with the locals and doing something a little out of my comfort zone.
The food of Portugal can be described as whole, delicious and large. Fish or meat was basically the choice most nights but it was so good you could eat the same thing every night and not be dissappointed. Local fare such as Bacalhau (Cod), Salmao (Salmon) and Garoupa (Grouper) was amazing. You better come hungry too because the Portuguese defied my notion of Europeans being relatively small eaters as compared to Americans. While salt and butter are used copiously the fish couldn't be any better. Ameijoas (Clams) were some of the best I've ever had. Oh, and Wine is cheaper than water! Loved that aspect.
I must say though not required the Quiejo Ovelha (cheese from Sheep) were the perfect appetizer every night and paired incredibly with bread (pao).
The last two days we were able to tour around and discover a little more of Portugal. We spent the first day in Cascais and Sintra. ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE is the only way to describe this experience, especially Sintra. If you ever go to Portugal it is an absolute must you visit Sintra and the Moorish Castle and the Pena Palace. I could write for days on it's beauty and the views of the mountains but they won't do it the justice it deserves.
Our last day we walked around Lisbon for 5 hours and didn't discover everything This city is suprisingly not as talked about for it's architecture and beauty as much as Paris and Rome. Having now been to all three, it is a tie as I can't possibly measure them up against each other. Bring comfortable shoes and enjoy. It felt like a dream where you could potentially be walking down a narrow hallway and turn a corner to an absolutely massive church that you had no clue existed. Don't take a tour bus, walk the city, discover a corner spot for lunch, grab a pasteis de nata (national pastry, fig pie) and discover why I rave so much about Lisbon. The view from the Parque Eduardo VII is astonishing.
I recently was in Portugal for 11 days playing European Tour Qualifying School. What an absolutely beautiful Country! I never would've expected so much from Lisbon and Portugal as a whole.
For the first 9 days we stayed across the Rio Tejo in Alcochete. The city was really cool and had a great view across the Rio while the Lisbon lights danced along the water. I really, really enjoyed this part of Portugal, reminded me lots of parts in the Greater Toronto Area that weren't necessarily considered in the city. The people were some of the most friendly and accomodating I've ever encountered.
My mom and I stayed with a Brazilian lady Marinha who spoke NO english. Sometimes it was a little difficult but she was one of the most caring ladies I've ever met in my life. It was a great experience living with the locals and doing something a little out of my comfort zone.
The food of Portugal can be described as whole, delicious and large. Fish or meat was basically the choice most nights but it was so good you could eat the same thing every night and not be dissappointed. Local fare such as Bacalhau (Cod), Salmao (Salmon) and Garoupa (Grouper) was amazing. You better come hungry too because the Portuguese defied my notion of Europeans being relatively small eaters as compared to Americans. While salt and butter are used copiously the fish couldn't be any better. Ameijoas (Clams) were some of the best I've ever had. Oh, and Wine is cheaper than water! Loved that aspect.
I must say though not required the Quiejo Ovelha (cheese from Sheep) were the perfect appetizer every night and paired incredibly with bread (pao).
The last two days we were able to tour around and discover a little more of Portugal. We spent the first day in Cascais and Sintra. ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE is the only way to describe this experience, especially Sintra. If you ever go to Portugal it is an absolute must you visit Sintra and the Moorish Castle and the Pena Palace. I could write for days on it's beauty and the views of the mountains but they won't do it the justice it deserves.
Our last day we walked around Lisbon for 5 hours and didn't discover everything This city is suprisingly not as talked about for it's architecture and beauty as much as Paris and Rome. Having now been to all three, it is a tie as I can't possibly measure them up against each other. Bring comfortable shoes and enjoy. It felt like a dream where you could potentially be walking down a narrow hallway and turn a corner to an absolutely massive church that you had no clue existed. Don't take a tour bus, walk the city, discover a corner spot for lunch, grab a pasteis de nata (national pastry, fig pie) and discover why I rave so much about Lisbon. The view from the Parque Eduardo VII is astonishing.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Edley's Nashville BBQ
I was visiting my family in Nashville over the recent holidays and we went to a few spots around town for good eats. I must say Nashville is right up there with other great cities such as New York, Toronto and Chicago for a great full circle experience. The food and atmosphere in Nashville is something you have to experience to justify. It's one of my favorite spots.
My brother decided to take my friend, Patrick, and I to one of his and my Dad's favorite places, Edley's. We got out there a little late (8:30) and the place was absolutely jammin. My brother always claims that going there during any popular hour will get you a 2 hour wait. Unlike most restaurants, it's a seat yourself and order at the cashier type of deal. There were quite a few tussles for the exiting patrons but we snagged a table for us three. My brother ordered their specialty drink, bourbon and tea, and the mason jar serving glass hit the nail on the head for a good southern drink.
We kept noticing everyone eating this nacho type dish so we all split that as an app and it is right up there with the best dishes I've ever had in my life. The pork, cheese, barbecue, sour cream and home cut potatoe's combined in a way didn't know existed. If you are ever in Nashville, it is worth the wait and time to go here and eat this!
I really wanted to get the brisket but we were told we better get there a lot earlier because they typically run out around lunch time. In the end we all settled with a pork plate. My side's were mac n' cheese and cole slaw, southern staples. A very solid meal but the nacho's really blew it over the top and there was no way for the meal to follow up that. It would've been like The Beatle's opening for ANYONE.
I will be back for the nacho's you can bet any amount of money on that.
My brother decided to take my friend, Patrick, and I to one of his and my Dad's favorite places, Edley's. We got out there a little late (8:30) and the place was absolutely jammin. My brother always claims that going there during any popular hour will get you a 2 hour wait. Unlike most restaurants, it's a seat yourself and order at the cashier type of deal. There were quite a few tussles for the exiting patrons but we snagged a table for us three. My brother ordered their specialty drink, bourbon and tea, and the mason jar serving glass hit the nail on the head for a good southern drink.
We kept noticing everyone eating this nacho type dish so we all split that as an app and it is right up there with the best dishes I've ever had in my life. The pork, cheese, barbecue, sour cream and home cut potatoe's combined in a way didn't know existed. If you are ever in Nashville, it is worth the wait and time to go here and eat this!
I really wanted to get the brisket but we were told we better get there a lot earlier because they typically run out around lunch time. In the end we all settled with a pork plate. My side's were mac n' cheese and cole slaw, southern staples. A very solid meal but the nacho's really blew it over the top and there was no way for the meal to follow up that. It would've been like The Beatle's opening for ANYONE.
I will be back for the nacho's you can bet any amount of money on that.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Cask and Larder
A part of the same ownership as The Ravenous Pig, Cask and Larder had some rather large shoe's to fill and they didn't disappoint, in food or drink.
I was taken aback by the difference's employed at these two succesful restaurants in the same area, with the same ownership. Cask and Larder was really cool and featured an in-house brewing station. It's not often you go to a restaurant and drink locally crafted beer made by the people serving your dinner, how neat. I loved the open floor plan and the bar area with the plain viewing of the "brew arena" towards the back, there seemed to be a rather party going on in there I wouldn't have minded to be invited too!
Back to the food and drink. My server, just like The Ravenous Pig, was very friendly and more than willing to contribute some of her idea's. Se suggested I try a sampler of their beers and some oysters that change frequently and are served just the way I like 'em, raw. Some of the oyster's ranged from B.C. and P.E.I. back in my motherland(Oh Canada!) and Maryland. I couldn't have been any happier with them. Tabasco, crackers and oysters...nothing much better in life. The beer sampler was very cool as well. Ranging from a toxic whiskey ale at 12% ABV and all different style's, my pallet was left confused, quenched and happy. I'm a sucker for Golden Ale's and Blonde's(beer talk) and these two options reeled me in.
My main was uncharacteristic for me but I decided to trust my server and try her favorite, the Rabbt and Dumplings. I'm not a Rabbit fan but she seemed pretty sure of herself and I was sold by her confidence. Similar to The Ravenous Pig, another great serving dish was very aesthetically pleasing and making me want to dig my fork in. The Rabbit was just like my waitress said it would be "Tastes like Chicken"and I sure as heck wouldn't have been able to tell a difference had it been a blind tasting. The dumplins and rest of the dish were served like a stew and I killed it. I wanted to order another plate but I knew it would've been a little heavy!
Head-to-Head Ravenous Pig versus Cask and Larder. I'd have to give the edge to The Ravenous Pig. The meal was just slightly better and the drinks were really spot on. Overall atmosphere of the two and servers were some of the best I've experienced.
I was taken aback by the difference's employed at these two succesful restaurants in the same area, with the same ownership. Cask and Larder was really cool and featured an in-house brewing station. It's not often you go to a restaurant and drink locally crafted beer made by the people serving your dinner, how neat. I loved the open floor plan and the bar area with the plain viewing of the "brew arena" towards the back, there seemed to be a rather party going on in there I wouldn't have minded to be invited too!
Back to the food and drink. My server, just like The Ravenous Pig, was very friendly and more than willing to contribute some of her idea's. Se suggested I try a sampler of their beers and some oysters that change frequently and are served just the way I like 'em, raw. Some of the oyster's ranged from B.C. and P.E.I. back in my motherland(Oh Canada!) and Maryland. I couldn't have been any happier with them. Tabasco, crackers and oysters...nothing much better in life. The beer sampler was very cool as well. Ranging from a toxic whiskey ale at 12% ABV and all different style's, my pallet was left confused, quenched and happy. I'm a sucker for Golden Ale's and Blonde's(beer talk) and these two options reeled me in.
My main was uncharacteristic for me but I decided to trust my server and try her favorite, the Rabbt and Dumplings. I'm not a Rabbit fan but she seemed pretty sure of herself and I was sold by her confidence. Similar to The Ravenous Pig, another great serving dish was very aesthetically pleasing and making me want to dig my fork in. The Rabbit was just like my waitress said it would be "Tastes like Chicken"and I sure as heck wouldn't have been able to tell a difference had it been a blind tasting. The dumplins and rest of the dish were served like a stew and I killed it. I wanted to order another plate but I knew it would've been a little heavy!
Head-to-Head Ravenous Pig versus Cask and Larder. I'd have to give the edge to The Ravenous Pig. The meal was just slightly better and the drinks were really spot on. Overall atmosphere of the two and servers were some of the best I've experienced.
The Ravenous Pig
I have been rather lazy recently and haven't updated a few of the restaurants I have tried the in the past couple of months. I apologise and will return and write more frequently.
One of the coolest atmosphere's I've encountered in my entire life was the decor, lighting and warm welcome I recieved at The Ravenous Pig. The staff was friendly and helpful. I loved the wooded feeling and the freedom the bartenders were given. Their ability to experiment in the bar led me to two drinks that have changed the course of my adult beverage consumption. Oh sweet and spicy Jalapeno Rose and the delightful Gin n' Jam. Jalapeno Rose has become a cult favorite according to the bartenders. A spicy and sweet concoction with tequila, fresh jalapeno and amazingness all in a glass that will leave you wanting more. The most interesting was the Gin n' Jam though. All jams(there were a few) were made in house and fresh. The mix with the tart gin and sweet jam(slight rosemary flavour) was absolutely killer! I look forward to many, many more. I keep asking for Gin n' Jam's everywhere and have been dissappointed too much.
The food was about as good as it can get. Mussels and Truffle Fries were recommended by my server and they hit the spot. The salt from the fries combined with the mussels in a way I wasn't expected but all the more loved. My love for mussels and seafood is directly from my Dad and Mom. I'm blessed to have parents that are just as big foodies as I am. My main was a nice, thick-cut steak with potatoes. It was served on a hot cast iron plate and the steak was prepared perfectly, medium rare with a nice juicy center. I couldn't have been happier with my decision and the friendliness of the staff made it such an enjoyable meal. I look further to going back and dining more!
One of the coolest atmosphere's I've encountered in my entire life was the decor, lighting and warm welcome I recieved at The Ravenous Pig. The staff was friendly and helpful. I loved the wooded feeling and the freedom the bartenders were given. Their ability to experiment in the bar led me to two drinks that have changed the course of my adult beverage consumption. Oh sweet and spicy Jalapeno Rose and the delightful Gin n' Jam. Jalapeno Rose has become a cult favorite according to the bartenders. A spicy and sweet concoction with tequila, fresh jalapeno and amazingness all in a glass that will leave you wanting more. The most interesting was the Gin n' Jam though. All jams(there were a few) were made in house and fresh. The mix with the tart gin and sweet jam(slight rosemary flavour) was absolutely killer! I look forward to many, many more. I keep asking for Gin n' Jam's everywhere and have been dissappointed too much.
The food was about as good as it can get. Mussels and Truffle Fries were recommended by my server and they hit the spot. The salt from the fries combined with the mussels in a way I wasn't expected but all the more loved. My love for mussels and seafood is directly from my Dad and Mom. I'm blessed to have parents that are just as big foodies as I am. My main was a nice, thick-cut steak with potatoes. It was served on a hot cast iron plate and the steak was prepared perfectly, medium rare with a nice juicy center. I couldn't have been happier with my decision and the friendliness of the staff made it such an enjoyable meal. I look further to going back and dining more!
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