Chicharon, a cold bottle of Sparkling Apple Juice, and Dave Matthews Band

Found two bottles of Appletiser Sparkling Apple Juice in the fridge. Cool. (Thanks to my cuz Teresa for the Christmas basket and Appletisers!). And hey, got some chicharon to go with it. Perfect. The dude's other cuz handed over a small pack from his recent trip to Cebu, and it's not just any chicharon, but Zubuchon Chicharon. 

The same Zubuchon whose famous lechon (roast whole pig) was hailed by Anthony Bourdain as "the best roasted pig in the world."  

Spreading Some Cookie Love with SweetLeaf Soft Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies

What's Christmas without cookies? There are cookies, and then there is the cookie. I recently read a post on SweetLeaf Soft Batch Cookies from fellow blogger Yedy at http://yedylicious.blogspot.com/ (see Yedy's post on SweetLeaf Soft Batch cookies at http://yedylicious.blogspot.com/2011/12/sweetleafs-triple-chocolate-chip-mint.html) and I knew right then I had to try it...

I decided to go for the traditional Chocolate chip cookies and placed an order via Facebook, and here they are...pretty cool packaging, nice touch with the Kraft bags, perfect for gift-giving. And the Chocolate Chip Cookies?

A Late Lunch at Romulo Cafe

It was way past 1:30pm, and the place was still packed. Still, it's a good sign that the food must be worth the wait. Romulo Cafe is run and managed by the family of the late statesman and ambassador Carlos P. Romulo,  and traditional Filipino cuisine is its specialty. The cafe is built on a former residence, and the transformation of the space to a modern and contemporary restaurant is pretty cool. Clean lines and dramatic black & white graphics give the place an edgy yet casual feel. And the food?  Definitely worth the wait.

The food is traditional, yet subtle and modern updates are tweaked into some of the dishes. We decided to have a light and healthy lunch, and with the coming holidays and its tempting "unhealthy" temptations, this seemed to be the right move... 

Getting your Sugar Fix at Naci

"Comfort food & dessert bar," seems like the perfect place for a quick sugar fix. After picking up some family photos which I had framed at Fox Square, I noticed a cake display which, on a late afternoon, is pretty hard to resist. Phil, one of Naci's friendly staff, highly recommended a slice of the Caramel Cream Cake, and I agreed. And Phil didn't disappoint.

Rich, creamy, but not too sweet, great with coffee, and a great way to end a busy afternoon.

Going Mongolian in my Aunt's Place

Sundays are always special at my Aunt's place. Once a week, everyone gets together to share fun times and great food. And the Dude's nephew just arrived from Australia to spend the holidays here, enough reason to celebrate and spend some good times and good food. And for this Sunday, the Dude's aunt goes Mongolian. Very cool.

What can be more fun than creating your own bowl, selecting your own ingredients and then cooking it? Mongolian barbecue involves stir-frying meat, seafood and vegetables on a super-heated cast iron griddle or pan, allowing all the ingredients to cook evenly and blend all the flavors.

Chef Dogan's Turkish Grill

It was a rainy Saturday evening, and I noticed something unusual along Katipunan Avenue...a vacant parking slot at Chef Dogan's Turkish Grill and Restaurant. I immediately made a right turn to claim the slot. Tonight is kebab time, thanks to the vacant parking slot.

Chef Dogan's kebab platters.

What's in the Pantry...Iberian Pork Liver Pate

Raided the fridge earlier, and found...nothing. Checked the pantry and yes, something interesting, a yellow tin.  La Charra Pate de higado de cerdo Iberico sin aditivos. Quite a mouthful, but this simply means the very best Iberian pork liver without any additives. I see the making of another perfect weekend afternoon.

Made in the province of Salamanca, Angela Garcia Curto has dedicated the past thirty years in making the best Iberian pork liver pate, and you immediately feel this with just one bite.

Razon's Halo-Halo: Less is More

Craving for a sugar fix? Here's a regional variation on the classic Halo-Halo from Pampanga. Unlike the more traditional halo-halos which have several ingredients (check out the previous post on Milky Way's Halo-Halo here at http://dude4food.blogspot.com/2011/09/halo-halo-mix-of-cultures-in-glass.html), Razon's uses only three:  Macapuno (shreds of young coconut in syrup), Saba (plantains in syrup) and Leche Flan (caramel custard). And it works pretty well. Less is more. 

Finely shaved ice and evaporated milk are then added, and topped with Leche Flan. 

Healthy Shabu-Shabu at The Podium

The cool weather and early evening rain means it's time for shabu-shabu. And with a name like Healthy Shabu-Shabu, how can you go wrong? 

Shabu-Shabu is the Japanese version of the hot pot, and the name comes from the swishing sound of cooking meat, vegetables and other ingredients in the pot. Each table is set up with individual hot pots with its own set of controls. Your very own hot pot. Very cool. No chop stick duels for the last piece of shrimp. On the  left is the Chicken Breast Set (P295) and the Mixed Seafood Set A (P 505) with large shrimp, squid, fish and mushrooms.

Not Just Any Can of Tuna

The Dude's cuz dropped off a package recently. Wondering what it was, I opened the package revealing cans of tuna. Hmm...more stuff for the pantry, cool. Until I read the label...very cool! 

The Liebster Blog Award...Awesome!

This is definitely a season for thanksgiving. Ever since I started blogging early this year, I never knew that I would meet such an awesome and supportive community that continues to inspire me to keep blogging. And since I can't really cook much less bake, except maybe scrambled eggs since everything I do turns scrambled, I am continuously inspired by the amazing creations shared by the community. This morning, I was surprised and elated to receive the Liebster Blog Award from Ramona of Curry and Comfort (see Ramona's awesome blog at http://curryandcomfort.blogspot.com/), and well, what an amazing way to start the day! Thank you, Ramona, for the support and recognition, and for being such an awesome friend! Yeah, I know, I mentioned "awesome" three times already.

The Liebster Blog Award comes from the German word meaning "dearest" or "beloved" and is given by fellow bloggers to new blogs with 200 or less followers, with the aim of encouraging new connections. And there are interesting rules to follow:

1.  Show your thanks and appreciation to the blogger who gave you the award with a link back to their blog. And I have to say it again, Ramona, you are awesome!

2.  Copy and paste the award on your blog.

3. Share the love by picking 5 other blogs with 200 or less followers that deserve the support and recognition, and let them know by leaving a comment in their blog.

4.  Keep the love and good karma going...and have fun!

I will start spreading the love by sharing this award with five special blogger friends who deserve the same recognition and support:

• Bake Me Blush: An amazing blog by a young baker and true artist in the kitchen with awesome photography. See Nicole's beautiful baked creations at http://bakemeblush.blogspot.com/.
• Fire and Food: Nothing more natural and tasty as grilling food on real wood. See more of firefoodie's awesome cooking at http://firefoodie.blogspot.com/.
• All That I'm Eating: See the best local, seasonal quality ingredients and recipes in a well-written blog at http://allthatimeating.blogspot.com/.
• Masala Herb: Exotic food and other culinary creations frome Helene, an Austian/French woman living in Goa, India. See more of Helene's amazing culinary adventures at http://masalaherb.blogspot.com/.
• Hungry Ducky: Fun blog featuring great restaurant reviews as well as excellent recipes. See more of Ducky's adventures at http://hungryducky.blogspot.com/.

Again, thank you Ramona! The Dude thanks everyone for following and supporting Dude For Food, and looks forward to learning more great eats from all of you!  Yeah, it's an awesome day...

What's in the Fridge...Suman

As the holiday season approaches, traditional treats start appearing everywhere, including the fridge. Suman, a sweet, sticky roll made from glutinous rice and wrapped in banana leaves  is one such treat. Prepared and cooked with coconut milk and sugar, the rolls are then wrapped and steamed. 

What's in the Fridge...Arugula and more Crab Sticks

As the holiday season approaches, I will make a conscious effort to eat a more balanced diet, or at least try, to compensate for the anticipated eatfest in the coming weeks. After the first "What's in the Fridge" post last 17 November (see post here http://dude4food.blogspot.com/2011/11/whats-in-fridge.html ), I decided to have another go at a fridge salad. Here's more "What's in the Fridge..."

Today, the fridge yielded some arugula and mixed greens, tomatoes, white onions, a salted red egg, and more of those crab sticks...

The Ultimate Taste Test 7.0 at BGC

I've never attended the previous Ultimate Taste Tests, so I was really looking forward to this year's event at the Bonifacio Global City. It's great to see food entrepreneurs with their products all in one place, and sampling each of them in one night. You'll never know, but you could meet a potential food business success story right here. So what's cookin' at the Ultimate Taste Test 7.0 edition? Here's a quick tour on some of the Dude's  favorites...

Mio Gelati and the Ferrero Gelato. If you love the candy, you'll definitely love this. And the Snickers Gelato ain't bad too...

Lord Stow's Egg Tarts

Light, flaky, sweet and soft custard. Rich and creamy, the kind that makes you close your eyes. Lord Stow's famous egg tarts is an indulgence I reward myself, for any and whatever reason.

Opening its first outlet in 1989 in Macau, the Lord Stow's Bakery story is an amazing one, with much of its success attributed to this egg tart. The original bakery has  become an iconic tourist attraction in Macau and its egg tarts continue to be popular.

What's in the Fridge...

Checked the fridge, found some half opened bag of spinach. Hmm...maybe a salad. One tomato...well, that would do. And, hey...crab sticks! Or what's left of it...

For the dressing, I found some near empty bottles of  olive oil and balsalmic vinegar, add salt and pepper to taste...

Back for More at Urameshi-Ya

Back at Little Tokyo. Back at Urameshi-Ya. Back for more Kobe beef and other grilled meats...great to be back.

Your table top grill is all set and ready to go...

Rediscovering Taho at Gloria Maris

Taho, a local snack made of silky tofu or bean curd with sago (mini tapioca pearls) and sweet caramelized sugar syrup, is an iconic and ubiquitous street hawker food that remains popular to this day. This popular comfort food traces its origins in Chinese influences, and has since become a mainstream favorite for generations. But catching a taho vendor on the road is a hit or miss thing, so its really comforting to know you can have this treat at Gloria Maris anytime you want it.

The bean curd is smooth and served hot. Very comforting and familiar, the Taho or Tau Hue served at Gloria Maris is a delicious treat that brings back so many memories.

Gone to Market, the Salcedo Weekend Market

Every weekend, the Salcedo Parking Lot transforms into a foodie's haven with an amazing selection of fresh produce and delicious dishes. Located right in the middle of the Makati CBD, local traders and the expat community living and working in the area make this weekend market quite an interesting experience. With so much local and international specialties available, it's a real challenge deciding which to try first. So, what's cookin' at the Salcedo Weekend Market? Here's a quick tour...

Side Entrance to the Salcedo Parking Area

Stopping Time at Alfredo's Steak House

Long before the days of Wagyu and Kobe steaks, there was Alfredo's Steak House. This establishment has been around for more than forty years, and has maintained only one branch. Though there are now many more choices for quality steaks, going to Alfredo's Steak House is like going back in time. It seems like time pretty much  stopped at Alfredo's. Everything, including the tablecloth, still looks the same. And the steaks still taste pretty much the same as it did so many years ago. A steak dinner includes soup and salad, and tonight, the Dude goes for the large Ribeye...

Cream of Mushroom Soup, the Soup of the Day. Tasty, but the mushroom bits were a bit too tiny to be appreciated.

The Banh Mi at Pho Hoa

World history has always been a study of conflicts and violent cultural clashes. And some of these have resulted in some interesting blends, particularly in a nation's cuisine. Take Banh Mi, an iconic Vietnamese meat sandwich with strong French colonial influences. The version in Pho Hoa is quite good for the price, and is available in grilled pork, chicken and  vegetarian. 

As expected, the Dude goes for the grilled pork, and it's pretty good, tender and juicy. The grilled pork is nicely complemented by veggies, including sweet pickled carrots and cucumbers. That, with the crusty baguette, mayo and mustard, equals a seriously good meat sandwich.

Taco Time at B&T Mexican Kitchen

I've been hearing so much about this Mexican joint, B&T Mexican Kitchen, and decided to give it a go one weekend afternoon. Many years ago, options for real Mexican food were limited, but there seems to be a surge in this cuisine with the emergence of new specialty joints serving quality Mexican fare. It's a good sign that finally, we are getting it right.

The Carne Asada Soft Tacos

Dim Sum Daze

I remember watching a documentary on Dim Sum in Discovery Channel some years back, and I remember rushing to find the nearest dim sum joint after watching it. There are numerous choices for dim sum locally, from high-end establishments to affordable hole-in-the-wall restaurants, but back then, I decided to hit the first restaurant I find on the road. And something that's easy on the wallet. And now it hits you again...hello Causeway Seafood Restaurant.

Shark Fin Siomai (Shao Mai)

Going Chinese in a Hundred Year Old Restaurant

Going to Panciteria San Jacinto is like going back in time. This is the place where my grandparents used to hang out, and where my parents used to go for Chinese food. Established way back in the late 1890s in Binondo in old Manila, Panciteria San Jacinto (now renamed as Comida China de Manila) is another example of how a foreign cuisine has evolved through generations and become part of the mainstream. Tracing  its roots from Cantonese origins, the cuisine has evolved reflecting both Spanish and Filipino influences. One of the popular dishes is Camarron Rebosado con Jamon (Crispy Fried Shrimp with Ham) which hints of a Spanish background. There are familiar and subtle notes of its Cantonese origins, but the cuisine has become a unique Chinese, Filipino and Spanish blend. I'm sure any Cantonese today would find it different but still strangely familiar.

Fish Head Soup with Tofu

Side Views: Smashin' Pumpkins!

Seeing all the posts featuring pumpkins made me remember a trip four years ago. While driving along Half Moon Bay just off San Francisco, I stopped by this incredible roadside display of pumpkins, including really large ones that still amaze me to this day.

Love the classic red truck.

An Afternoon with Churros con Chocolate

The week's done, chores complete, everything's ok. Nothing like a leisurely weekend afternoon. And to make it even better, have some Churros con Chocolate to complete the weekend. And there's one place to enjoy the best, the one that started it all  forty-eight years ago. At Dulcinea, they still continue to make Churros the same way since 1963.

How can one simple snack made of flour, water and salt remain a favorite in a fast-changing culinary landscape? Consistency. Dulcinea's Churros con Chocolate still tastes exactly the same as the Dude's parents remember it, and the same as the first time I tasted it as a child.  It's comforting to know that at least some of the good things don't change...

Thinking of Paella...

A family gathering in the home of the Dude's aunt means one thing: magnificent Paella. And for as long as I remember, my aunt would call one person for this dish. My aunt's cousin in-law has mastered the art of Paella through the years, and now has a successful home-based operation.

The most popular type of the traditional Paella is the mixed seafood version which includes crabs, large shrimps, mussels and squid, as well as chicken, pork, green beans, peppers and Spanish Chorizo de Bilbao.

Halo-Halo: A Mix of Cultures in a Glass

The halo-halo, that wonderful sweet concoction of local preserved fruits and sweet beans, never fails to entice and take you on a wild sugar rush. Literally translated as "mix-mix", the halo-halo is basically a cultural melting pot of influences and flavors in a tall glass. The different variations reflect Spanish, Chinese, Malay and American influences, with each ingredient contributing to make a simple yet indulgent dessert.

The usual mix of  ingredients include a combination of sweet preserved beans (mung, kidney and white beans), thin shreds of young coconut (macapuno) , jackfruit and plantains, nata de coco (coconut gelatin) and other preserved fruits. Filled with shaved ice, topped with leche flan (caramel custard), ube (purple yam) and ice cream, you'll need a real tall glass. Other ingredients include gulaman (colored gelatin cubes) and kaong (preserved sugar palm fruit). To complete the dessert, pour on some evaporated milk. sprinkle some pinipig (homemade rice crispies) and watch the ice cream melt and mix with the other ingredients.

Kikufuji: The Best Yakitori in Little Tokyo

The Dude's blood test results are in, and there are improvements. Blood sugar levels are lower, total cholesterol levels are still above the normal ranges but significantly lower than the previous test (couldn't live without some butter, mayo and bacon, I mean, you just can't). But still, a pretty good sign. And now for some real good eats...and I'm thinking Japanese. Something light, something healthy...and Yakitori comes top-of-mind.  And you're off to Little Tokyo...

Aaah Sake...but not tonight. Long drive home...

Mann Hann: Chinese Comfort Food

Chinese food has always been popular, and for generations, special family celebrations meant going Chinese. And for me, having Chinese food always brings back fond memories of earlier times, when things were simpler and less complicated. And that's exactly what Chinese cuisine is for me, simple, uncomplicated great meals shared with family and friends. I had lunch with my niece and her hubby who's visiting from the US, and this called for a trip to Mann Hann... 

Interesting to note how most cuisines somehow evolve, get localized, and then slip into the cultural mainstream. True and authentic Chinese cuisine, sadly, can only be found in higher end establishments. But then again, the food at Mann Hann is both familiar and homey.

Side Views: Pike Place Market, Seattle's Best

They say the best way to really know a city is to visit the local market. See the local produce, see what the locals eat and breathe in the local vibe. And Seattle's Pike Place Market is definitely an attraction you shouldn't miss.

Be amazed with the wide and extensive varieties of local seafood, all caught fresh from the rich Pacific coast and Alaska. A traditional farmers' market, shoppers have the rare opportunity of getting up close with the local producer, farmer and fisherman. More than a hundred years old and still going strong, Pike Place Market is a great place to know the city of Seattle.

Konbini Tokyo Market: Great Food + Great Value

Real good Japanese food used to be found only in premium establishments, and I was pleasantly surprised to find good Japanese food and value in one place. Konbini Tokyo Market is a Japanese style grocery/convenience store with a great little restaurant inside. The grocery section is also impressive. You can find premium Japanese coffee in both ground and whole beans, Instant and ready-to-drink cans, and a variety of snack items, as well as a nice meat section with Wagyu selections. Unlike other good small Japanese outlets like the ones you find in Little Tokyo in Makati, which also offers good authentic Japanese food but often appear old and dingy, Konbini is refreshingly clean and well-lit. 

And here's a great tip. If you're looking for the authentic KitKat chocolate wafer, and not the reformulated "tropicalized" version available in other mainstream local supermarkets, you can find the Japanese KitKat editions in Dark Chocolate, Green Tea and other variants right here at Konbini. Pricey at P 100.00 per bar, but you can really taste the difference. It does melt faster, but the rich chocolate flavor is way better than the usual KitKat. 

And they have one of the best deals with their Ramen and Gyoza Combo. The set meal of authentic Cha Siu Ramen plus a platter of Gyoza goes for P 335.00, not bad for a real Japanese noodle meal.

The Cha Siu Ramen and Gyoza Meal Sets are available in three combos: Tonkotsu Ramen, Miso Ramen and Shoyu Ramen. According to the Konbini staff, the Tonkotsu Ramen set is their bestseller, and I decided to try that one.

Nice to See You Again, Charlie's Grind & Grill!

After trying out a low-fat, low-salt and no-fun diet for two weeks, I had my blood tests done and decided enough of the oatmeal and go for some serious burger and fries. I'll worry about the cholesterol results later, but tonight is burger time. Big time.

And the nearest burger joint is Charlie's Grind and Grill along Ortigas Avenue toward Santolan. Black Angus Burger and thick country style fries...now that's what I'm talking about.

Side Views: New York State of Mind

Watching the various documentaries on TV on the tenth anniversary of 9-11, I somehow felt connected. Not that I witnessed the tragedy, but because of my admiration and respect for The City.  I had a chance to visit NYC for the first time five years after 9-11 and one can't help but feel the city's tenacity and never give up attitude. I remember the immense pride among the locals for their city. And its many heroes during that tragic day. The home of New York's Finest, and the brave ordinary citizens who stood up against terrorism. The mood when I was there was upbeat and optimistic, but you can also sense that The City will never forget. 

Swan Oyster Depot: A True San Francisco Landmark

Any trip to SFO isn't complete without a stop at Swan Oyster Depot. After the usual trips to the city's landmarks, go for the best fresh seafood in San Francisco. It's also one of Anthony Bourdain's top picks in the City by the Bay. I last visited the place two years ago, and man, I've been missing it ever since and these are photos from that trip...

Try to come in early to avoid the long lines. Even locals line up. If you do have to queue up, don't worry, it's definitely worth the wait. Go check the window display featuring the fresh catch of the day. It's also conveniently located beside See's Candies. Perfect. Sadly, I was told See's Candies already closed and moved to another location.

Leaving Las Vegas...

Just caught a replay of an old Top Chef episode with Hubert Keller as one of the contestants. Brought back memories of  Keller's Burger Bar. After binging on all the buffet spreads, you always come back to the Classic. On the last day before leaving Vegas, I was on a search for burgers. And here are two of my favorite Vegas burgers:

The famous stuffed one pound burger at Hash-House A Go-Go, with double Midwest beef patties, and instead of the usual fries, a side of salad. Just had to compensate for the apple-smoked bacon. Best known for its hearty breakfast and brunch specialties and "twisted farm food" fare, the burger is also a stand-out. With the trademark sprig of rosemary stuck on the bun, something Hash House does in all its food, this is a serious burger.  Just off the Strip at West Sahara, great place for huge and hearty breakfasts and loaded burgers. Great atmosphere as well, nice local vibe. If you want to get away from the clattering noise of the slots, and forget about the dollars you lost, this is the place.

Driving the Mother Road

The Vegas Burger post made me remember another trip two years ago on the legendary Mother Road. Route 66 has got to be my best road trip yet, and what makes it even more special are the interesting food stops along the way. Driving from Vegas all the way to Amarillo, Texas, with stops at the Grand Canyon in Arizona and Santa Fe and Albuquerque, New Mexico, all in thirteen days. Aside from the attractions along the way, the best part of any road trip is the food. Nothing like gas and food stops to suck in the local feel of the place. And here are some of the notable stops...

Steak and eggs with country style  potatoes at Bright Angel Lodge, Grand Canyon. Starting the day right before the hitting the trails. Major protein and carbo loading. Filled with tourists, the overall atmosphere is warm and friendly. And the food's great.

Back at Po Suk Jung...

The rainy season's here, and the cooler weather brings the sudden urge for something hot and spicy. It's back at Po Suk Jung...

John, the friendly Korean owner of the establishment excitedly greets us, and tells us "We have elephant clams tonight. Very fresh. Very good. You try." Sure,why not. As we have our first round of brews, we wondered, what the hell are elephant clams?

After a few minutes, the steamed mystery clams arrived. "It's very good." John exclaimed with pride and a smile. I downed my beer, picked up the clam, dunked it in the soy dipping sauce, and...hey, it is good. In fact, it is "very good" as John promised. Think shellfish on steroids, they are huge, even scary to make you drink a little faster. It's pretty much like your oversized mussel, same texture and flavor. We had a second round of brews to finish off the clams. Great way to start the meal.

BP, Cholesterol and Tenderloin

The test results came back, and nothing surprising, really. Bound to happen, I guess. Bad cholesterol and blood pressure levels are off the wall, and will have to seriously consider a low fat, low salt no fun diet. But before I start taking oatmeal, here's a last meal until the next medical... 

Ribeyes are my preference, and Outback is pretty consistent. But after the damn test results, I decided to try other "healthier" cuts. Instead of the usual 10 oz Ribeye shown above, I opted for the smaller and leaner 6 oz tenderloin, the Victoria's Fillet at Outback Libis, with baked potato (yup, without the bacon bits) and steamed veggies (and yes, no butter), so how bad can it be, right?

The Urameshi-Ya Experience

Here's another gem tucked in Little Tokyo (near Makati Cinema Square), specializing in grilled prime cuts of meat, including Kobe selections. Your orders ae served sliced, seasoned and ready to grill at your table.

Turning Japanese for Less at Zensho

You just can't go wrong with Zensho's Eat-All-You-Can package to satisfy your Japanese food cravings. Just fill up the menu checklist (be sure to check the oysters, beef and cuttlefish), and Allan will take care of the rest. Sit back and watch Allan do his magic on the grill, with all  items cooked fresh as you order.

The Lusso Burger. Period.

I first tried the Lusso Burger around two years ago, and have since gone back numerous times. Nothing beats the Lusso Demi Pound Burger. Seriously.

The Lusso Demi Pound Burger in all its glory. US Beef with foie gras, prosecco onions and cambozola, thick-cut  Asiago french fries and a nice salad for sides. Pure bliss on a plate. Dude, this is the mother of all burgers...

Po Suk Jung: Going Korean in Pasig

With the surge of Korean restautrants in the city, here's another one for your kimchi fix. Located in Orambo, Pasig (near Valle Verde Country Club), Po Suk Jung offers traidtional Korean barbecue and other Korean specialties. Here's a sampling of Po Suk Jung's dishes:

Bulgogi, prepared at your table, with vegetables and noodles. A twist on the usual Koren beef barbecue.

Mmmm...Mamou!

Prime USDA Angus Ribeye. That's more than enough reason to drop everything and drive to Mamou for a steak fix.

Healthy Start: Looks healthy, tastes even better. The Healdsburg Harvest Salad had a nice sweet fruity dressing, drizzled with nuts and white cheese.

A Thousand Miles

More like 1,027 miles in two weeks to be be exact, including the numerous detours along the way. On a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle last December 2010, I got to experience the great Pacific Northwest. But the best part of any road trip is discovering where the locals eat. Tips from hotel staff to gas station attendants led to some pretty interesting experiences. Here's a rundown on my picks for best eats along the route...

Dean & Deluca, Napa Valley, CA: I just had to try the coffee...great before or after a long drive.