Los Cabos
453 S Washington St
Afton, WY 83110
(307) 885-0011
I guess technically I'm breaking the fundamental rules of this blog as the title indicates this is for Salt Lake City eateries, but I figure I can bend the rules since I am a native Salt-Lake-Citian citizen. (Hee hee hee :) This past weekend I went river rafting down the Snake River with some people from my singles ward. On the way we decided we were hungry, so to remedy this we concluded to stop for lunch. Our first option was Taco Time. Hoping to find somewhere a little more adventurous, we continued our search and discovered a more authentic version of Hispanic food. We walked in at 11:15 (fifteen minutes after opening time) and were greeted with colorful walls, artwork and music. Chips and salsa come free with the menu, and the entrees aren't too badly priced either. Mostly they run from about $6.50 to $10.
La comida esta delicioso. Esta muy divertido y no cuesta demaciado dinero. :)
Don't expect to have breakfast here, though. They are very much a lunch time establishment, but it's conveniently located as a lunch stop for Salt Lakians on their way to Jackson, so next time you feel like going to Wyoming, give it a go. Ai Ai!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Monday, July 28, 2008
Cedars of Lebanon
152 East 200 South
Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. M-F, Dinner: 5:00-10:00 p.m. M-F
Open Friday-Saturday for dinner only: 5:00-11:00 p.m.
Featuring dishes from Lebanon, Armenia, Israel, and Morocco, this was my first experience with Middle Eastern food and I rather enjoyed it! The inside of the restaurant was really nice and is made to look like you are on the inside of a tent, with a sloping canopy above head. It seemed that there was a second room with low couches and tables for yet a different dining experience. The goblets and Middle Eastern music added to the authenticity. While service was on the slow side, the server had good suggestions. We had homous dip on flatbread as well as pastilla (deliciously-seasoned chicken in a flaky pastry crust), lamb tagine (lamb marinated in curry, served with rice and vegetables), and side salads. The food was all excellent. Appetizers were around $6; main dishes run about $16-18. FYI on Friday and Saturday nights they have belly dancers, which we got to experience. I also hear that they also do a lunch buffet where specialties not necessarily on the menu are served. For those who would like to try smoking a hookah pipe, they have different flavors. The whole evening was a fun and interesting cultural experience I would recommend to both those who are and aren't familiar with Middle Eastern cuisine.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. M-F, Dinner: 5:00-10:00 p.m. M-F
Open Friday-Saturday for dinner only: 5:00-11:00 p.m.
Featuring dishes from Lebanon, Armenia, Israel, and Morocco, this was my first experience with Middle Eastern food and I rather enjoyed it! The inside of the restaurant was really nice and is made to look like you are on the inside of a tent, with a sloping canopy above head. It seemed that there was a second room with low couches and tables for yet a different dining experience. The goblets and Middle Eastern music added to the authenticity. While service was on the slow side, the server had good suggestions. We had homous dip on flatbread as well as pastilla (deliciously-seasoned chicken in a flaky pastry crust), lamb tagine (lamb marinated in curry, served with rice and vegetables), and side salads. The food was all excellent. Appetizers were around $6; main dishes run about $16-18. FYI on Friday and Saturday nights they have belly dancers, which we got to experience. I also hear that they also do a lunch buffet where specialties not necessarily on the menu are served. For those who would like to try smoking a hookah pipe, they have different flavors. The whole evening was a fun and interesting cultural experience I would recommend to both those who are and aren't familiar with Middle Eastern cuisine.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Dolcetti Gelato (4.5 of 5 Mini Spoon Thingies)
1100 E. 1751 S.
http://www.dolcettigelato.com/
Yesterday morning during a chat with my uncle Mike, he mentioned a great gelato place in Sugarhouse called Dolcetti Gelato. I took advantage of the opportunity to go try it out last night. It's a small little shop on the east side of the road. Parking was a little difficult because of the large number of customers already there. The two workers there were friendly and helpful in selecting a flavor of gelato. Customers are free to try as many different flavors as they like. I think I walked out with five or so mini colored spoons... It seemed like there were more flavors at the Mr. C's gelato place out in Jordan Landing by my house, but the flavors here were equal to or more delectable than Mr. C's. Dolcetti Gelato is apparently well-known for its lemon gelato, and now I know why. It was quite good. I would also highly recommend the plum and dolce de leche flavors. I wasn't too fond of the ginger. I suppose that's an acquired taste. Customers can mix flavors in a single dish. The price tag of $3.50 on a small cup seems a little steep, but it's worth it. Our server, left just about as much gelato above the rim than below..
There are a couple small tables inside the restaurant and patio space outside. If the weather's good, I'd select the porch. There's nothing better than some heavenly ice cream on a warm summer evening.
http://www.dolcettigelato.com/
Yesterday morning during a chat with my uncle Mike, he mentioned a great gelato place in Sugarhouse called Dolcetti Gelato. I took advantage of the opportunity to go try it out last night. It's a small little shop on the east side of the road. Parking was a little difficult because of the large number of customers already there. The two workers there were friendly and helpful in selecting a flavor of gelato. Customers are free to try as many different flavors as they like. I think I walked out with five or so mini colored spoons... It seemed like there were more flavors at the Mr. C's gelato place out in Jordan Landing by my house, but the flavors here were equal to or more delectable than Mr. C's. Dolcetti Gelato is apparently well-known for its lemon gelato, and now I know why. It was quite good. I would also highly recommend the plum and dolce de leche flavors. I wasn't too fond of the ginger. I suppose that's an acquired taste. Customers can mix flavors in a single dish. The price tag of $3.50 on a small cup seems a little steep, but it's worth it. Our server, left just about as much gelato above the rim than below..
There are a couple small tables inside the restaurant and patio space outside. If the weather's good, I'd select the porch. There's nothing better than some heavenly ice cream on a warm summer evening.
House of Tibet (4 of 5 Dumplings)
1300 S. 250 E.
On a few different occasions, my aunt and uncle have suggested that I go try the House of Tibet. Last night I finally had the opportunity to do so. I was pleasantly surprised with the restaurant. I feel obligated to advertise for this place...there were only a couple people there during our meal. This meant excellent service from our waiter, but it could also mean that the House of Tibet won't be around for long unless we help them gain a more substantial customer base.
The atmosphere was quiet and peaceful, great for conversation. The food was good. The price was great. Two entrees, appetizers, two soup and specialty drinks ran us about $27.00. Amazing. I'd go back just for the cheap food. We tried the beef dumplings, the fried mashed potatoes, the lentil soup, the beef and mushroom something, the Mango smoothie and the yogurt based Da-Rha. Everything was scrumptious. Thanks Tim and Lisa!
On a few different occasions, my aunt and uncle have suggested that I go try the House of Tibet. Last night I finally had the opportunity to do so. I was pleasantly surprised with the restaurant. I feel obligated to advertise for this place...there were only a couple people there during our meal. This meant excellent service from our waiter, but it could also mean that the House of Tibet won't be around for long unless we help them gain a more substantial customer base.
The atmosphere was quiet and peaceful, great for conversation. The food was good. The price was great. Two entrees, appetizers, two soup and specialty drinks ran us about $27.00. Amazing. I'd go back just for the cheap food. We tried the beef dumplings, the fried mashed potatoes, the lentil soup, the beef and mushroom something, the Mango smoothie and the yogurt based Da-Rha. Everything was scrumptious. Thanks Tim and Lisa!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Indian Fusion
A couple of weeks ago some friends and I visited Indian Fusion at Jordan Landing. It's right across the street to the west of Wendy's. They've only been open for a month or two, but it seems that the cooks and servers have shaken off the new-business jitters.
Our server was pleasant and knowledgeable. She even let us taste test a couple of the lassie flavors. Stay away from the "salty" lassie. It was positively disgusting. It was like slurping down salty yogart. The mango and strawberry lassies were pretty good, but I would have liked them to be a bit thicker. Does anyone know where I can get a lassie shake?
The decorations were fair. The restaurant is a bit small, but the food is good. The four of us tried a little bit of everything and were satisfied. Two entrees, appetizers and a couple of lassies ran me about $40-$45.
Our server was pleasant and knowledgeable. She even let us taste test a couple of the lassie flavors. Stay away from the "salty" lassie. It was positively disgusting. It was like slurping down salty yogart. The mango and strawberry lassies were pretty good, but I would have liked them to be a bit thicker. Does anyone know where I can get a lassie shake?
The decorations were fair. The restaurant is a bit small, but the food is good. The four of us tried a little bit of everything and were satisfied. Two entrees, appetizers and a couple of lassies ran me about $40-$45.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Stoneground
249 East 400 South
Salt Lake City
Across the street from Salt Lake Main Library
Salt Lake City
Across the street from Salt Lake Main Library
http://www.stonegroundslc.com/ (if you want to browse the menu)
This has become one of my favorite restaurants in the city. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting with background music from Bossa Nova to the Beatles. The ambiance is such that you can linger over your meal and no one minds. They also have a pool table if that is an interest. The menu is mainly made up of pizza and pastas with various salads and a few sandwiches too. My favorite is the artichoke mushroom pasta with spinach leaves, red peppers, and of course, garlic. The wonderful blend of flavors and tastes is what makes Stoneground stand out. The house salad is also good and the house vinaigrette is amazing. They have a large menu so there is always something new to try, or if you're like me, more often than not you fall back on your favorite. The prices are reasonable with dishes averaging between $10-$16. If you're sharing a pizza it ends up being a little bit cheaper. One drawback is sometimes your carefree waiters do not give the best service. I have had varied experiences, some with good service, some 
impeccable, and others disastrous. If you are looking for a fun tranquil experience where you can have good conversation and new flavors, then give Stoneground a try.
impeccable, and others disastrous. If you are looking for a fun tranquil experience where you can have good conversation and new flavors, then give Stoneground a try.Note: They are on the second floor, go in the door and head up the stairs. They have parking on the west side of the building and also in the back behind the building.
The Training Table
Take a hint from me: a good burger is a true delight. And a good burger can be found at The Training Table. It is a local restaurant, founded right here in Utah, and the food is distinctive. That is my favorite kind, food which cannot be replicated anywhere else. It is great: there are many different styles of burgers and sandwiches to choose from, somewhere in the ballpark of about thirty-something, all gourmet-style. They come in bun and bunless styles for different nutritional preferences. Hamburger, chicken, pastrami, fish, even vegetarian burgers and sandwiches are available. I have never been to a place that specializes in nothing but burgers, especially not one this good.
Of course, no burger is complete without the side orders, and the Training Table excels at these, as well. They have fries and onion rings, cooked with passionate zeal, and one of the Training Table's most innovative recipes, the cheese fries, are second to none. Enjoy them with their special dipping sauce, which consists of specially ordered barbecue sauce with a dollop of thick, high-quality mayonnaise, and you are in heaven. For dessert, try the Snelgrove's ice cream sundaes, also a Utah original.
If you are a lover of burgers, as I am, then you know what a truly well-made burger means. It means wealth. It means independence, American values and dreams, it means that nothing in the world will ever stop you, because nothing in the world will ever taste this good. If you are a Utahn, like I am, then this is a place that you need to try. I recommend it. If you have never been there, try the #16, with cheese fries and dipping sauce, and a root beer. You'll thank me for it.
Of course, no burger is complete without the side orders, and the Training Table excels at these, as well. They have fries and onion rings, cooked with passionate zeal, and one of the Training Table's most innovative recipes, the cheese fries, are second to none. Enjoy them with their special dipping sauce, which consists of specially ordered barbecue sauce with a dollop of thick, high-quality mayonnaise, and you are in heaven. For dessert, try the Snelgrove's ice cream sundaes, also a Utah original.
If you are a lover of burgers, as I am, then you know what a truly well-made burger means. It means wealth. It means independence, American values and dreams, it means that nothing in the world will ever stop you, because nothing in the world will ever taste this good. If you are a Utahn, like I am, then this is a place that you need to try. I recommend it. If you have never been there, try the #16, with cheese fries and dipping sauce, and a root beer. You'll thank me for it.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
I macked out with the big mac
To get my brothers new blog going I've chosen to share my deepest feelings about McDonald's. Though that creepy clown at the front door scares the crap out of me I still go...through the drive-thru...for the dollar menu. Because of economy problems the dollar menu holds it's price but it's items are literally shrinking! This frustrates me. I'm a fan of the Hot Fudge Sundae. I maybe lactose intolerant but there are some things worth getting sick for. If the sundae gets smaller I feel less effects but my dollar has been wasted. For those of us making 10-15 bucks an hour and have bills such as a student loan, cell phone and so on...the dollar menu was our splurge. Take that from us and our 30 minute lunch break will be nothing more than a soggy peanut butter and jelly sandwich. I can currently recommend this restaurant for it's speedy service, price (if things don't get smaller), a promised smile from the server Juan (90th s. 40th w.) and the extra napkins when requested.
Adriatic Restaurant
Balkan Mediterranean Cuisine
3600 South State Street
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
Scenic artwork of Croatia, Serbia and Bosnia covers the walls of this lodge style restaurant. Play a round or two of pool at the billiards tables or wander around in the annexed shop of European imports while your food is being prepared. There you’ll find such things as the luscious Milka strawberry chocolate candy bars from Germany, Vegeta seasoning and even a small selection of foreign music CDs, DVDs and videos.
We started with the Sarma, a savory mixture of minced meat, rice, onions and flavorful spices wrapped in sour cabbage leaves. If that’s not enough for your taste buds, I would highly recommend ordering a small dipping dish of the spicy Ajvar sauce that you can spread generously over anything edible.
The phenomenal Balkan Platter for two will give you a chance to try a little of each of the available entrees from the grill. Each bite into any one of these savory meats, the Cevapi, Pljeskavica, Sa Kajmakom is a sublime experience. The platter comes with an authentic side salad of oil glazed lettuce, onions and tomatoes. You’ll also receive a small order of fries and a large portion of homemade bread. Besides the platter option there is also an extensive menu of soups, salads and sandwiches. The daily special is usually served at a discount price.
If you’ve had some previous experience with Adriatic food and would like something that’s not on the menu, merely ask the waiter and the cook will do his best to accommodate you. Palacinke, a crepe style wrap, wasn’t listed on the dessert menu. Ten minutes after making the request, we had before us five soft rolls of eurocream ecstasy.
Once you’ve fallen in love with the Mediterranean food, the Adriatic Restaurant makes it easy to introduce your friends. The restaurant caters to parties, meetings, birthdays and even weddings. If you’re interested, ask about free delivery for large orders.
Average Entrée Price: $7.99
Store Hours: Sunday: 1 pm to 5 pm, Monday through Thursday 11 am to 9 pm, Friday 11 am to 10 pm, Saturday 11 am to 7 pm.
3600 South State Street
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
Scenic artwork of Croatia, Serbia and Bosnia covers the walls of this lodge style restaurant. Play a round or two of pool at the billiards tables or wander around in the annexed shop of European imports while your food is being prepared. There you’ll find such things as the luscious Milka strawberry chocolate candy bars from Germany, Vegeta seasoning and even a small selection of foreign music CDs, DVDs and videos.
We started with the Sarma, a savory mixture of minced meat, rice, onions and flavorful spices wrapped in sour cabbage leaves. If that’s not enough for your taste buds, I would highly recommend ordering a small dipping dish of the spicy Ajvar sauce that you can spread generously over anything edible.
The phenomenal Balkan Platter for two will give you a chance to try a little of each of the available entrees from the grill. Each bite into any one of these savory meats, the Cevapi, Pljeskavica, Sa Kajmakom is a sublime experience. The platter comes with an authentic side salad of oil glazed lettuce, onions and tomatoes. You’ll also receive a small order of fries and a large portion of homemade bread. Besides the platter option there is also an extensive menu of soups, salads and sandwiches. The daily special is usually served at a discount price.
If you’ve had some previous experience with Adriatic food and would like something that’s not on the menu, merely ask the waiter and the cook will do his best to accommodate you. Palacinke, a crepe style wrap, wasn’t listed on the dessert menu. Ten minutes after making the request, we had before us five soft rolls of eurocream ecstasy.
Once you’ve fallen in love with the Mediterranean food, the Adriatic Restaurant makes it easy to introduce your friends. The restaurant caters to parties, meetings, birthdays and even weddings. If you’re interested, ask about free delivery for large orders.
Average Entrée Price: $7.99
Store Hours: Sunday: 1 pm to 5 pm, Monday through Thursday 11 am to 9 pm, Friday 11 am to 10 pm, Saturday 11 am to 7 pm.
Originally published in the Century magazine
Z’ Tejas
Southwestern Grill
191 S. Rio Grande St.
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Gateway Food Court
Situated at the entry to the Gateway food plaza is the Z’ Tejas Southwestern Grill. With all the current construction in downtown Salt Lake, the most convenient mode of transportation is TRAX. Z’ Tejas can be quite busy on the weekends, but because it’s located close to the University of Utah campus, it can be the perfect choice for lunch appointment. The doors open at 11 am. You’ll have the restaurant all to yourself until about noon when the office crowd starts to arrive.
As soon as you walk in the door, you’ll immediately see the Texas flag hanging prominently against the back wall, reminding you of the restaurant’s Texan roots. The Texan paraphernalia, the sleek layout of the establishment and the soft country music playing in the background create an enticing southwestern experience.
We started with the chips and salsa appetizer, which arrived quickly with our two large glasses of ice water. Chances are that you’ll be sufficiently hydrated after cooling the palate after each successive dip into one of the three tasty salsa dishes.
“Most people come here for our enchiladas or tacos,” our waiter informed us. Variations of these two items comprise most of the surprisingly short menu. You will also find a short list of salads, soups and sandwiches. We ordered the Diablo Chicken Pasta and the Blackened Catfish Enchiladas. During the short wait we were treated to a complimentary serving of sweet cornbread. There was a slight mix-up with my order but it was promptly corrected.
The two Blackened Catfish Enchiladas were glazed with a delectable melted cream cheese sauce, served with the classic combination of rice and beans. Those wary of seafood should not be immediately dissuaded from this entrée. The catfish was tasty without being overwhelming. The Diablo Chicken Pasta was not nearly as spicy as the name implies and the succulent chicken was a pleasant complement for the delicious pasta noodles.
The dessert menu includes various cobblers and cakes that varies from day to day. Ask your waiter for details.
Hours: 11 am to 11 pm Sunday through Thursday, 11 am to midnight Friday and Saturday
Average Meal Price: $10.00
Originally published in the Century magazine
191 S. Rio Grande St.
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Gateway Food Court
Situated at the entry to the Gateway food plaza is the Z’ Tejas Southwestern Grill. With all the current construction in downtown Salt Lake, the most convenient mode of transportation is TRAX. Z’ Tejas can be quite busy on the weekends, but because it’s located close to the University of Utah campus, it can be the perfect choice for lunch appointment. The doors open at 11 am. You’ll have the restaurant all to yourself until about noon when the office crowd starts to arrive.
As soon as you walk in the door, you’ll immediately see the Texas flag hanging prominently against the back wall, reminding you of the restaurant’s Texan roots. The Texan paraphernalia, the sleek layout of the establishment and the soft country music playing in the background create an enticing southwestern experience.
We started with the chips and salsa appetizer, which arrived quickly with our two large glasses of ice water. Chances are that you’ll be sufficiently hydrated after cooling the palate after each successive dip into one of the three tasty salsa dishes.
“Most people come here for our enchiladas or tacos,” our waiter informed us. Variations of these two items comprise most of the surprisingly short menu. You will also find a short list of salads, soups and sandwiches. We ordered the Diablo Chicken Pasta and the Blackened Catfish Enchiladas. During the short wait we were treated to a complimentary serving of sweet cornbread. There was a slight mix-up with my order but it was promptly corrected.
The two Blackened Catfish Enchiladas were glazed with a delectable melted cream cheese sauce, served with the classic combination of rice and beans. Those wary of seafood should not be immediately dissuaded from this entrée. The catfish was tasty without being overwhelming. The Diablo Chicken Pasta was not nearly as spicy as the name implies and the succulent chicken was a pleasant complement for the delicious pasta noodles.
The dessert menu includes various cobblers and cakes that varies from day to day. Ask your waiter for details.
Hours: 11 am to 11 pm Sunday through Thursday, 11 am to midnight Friday and Saturday
Average Meal Price: $10.00
Originally published in the Century magazine
Salt Lake Foodies Unite!
If the question, "Where are we going to eat tonight?" or any of its horrid variations has ever escaped your lips, this is the place for you.
Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to seek out and enjoy new restaurants. Of course I recognize that there other websites out there that can supply you with possible locations and cuisines, but I'd like to hear recommendations from close friends and family.
You might tell me, "But Jake, I don't ever go to restaurants." I'm one step ahead of you. I'm thinking we could organize a monthly adventure to a local restaurant. Any ideas for July?
So...I've written a couple of examples. It doesn't have to be complex or long. Just make sure to include the following: name of restaurant, address, cuisine type (American, Thai, etc.), food tried, service quality, ambiance, general pricing, insider tips, etc.
Side note: I came up with this idea during a home teaching appointment so it has to be inspired...
Cheers!
Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to seek out and enjoy new restaurants. Of course I recognize that there other websites out there that can supply you with possible locations and cuisines, but I'd like to hear recommendations from close friends and family.
You might tell me, "But Jake, I don't ever go to restaurants." I'm one step ahead of you. I'm thinking we could organize a monthly adventure to a local restaurant. Any ideas for July?
So...I've written a couple of examples. It doesn't have to be complex or long. Just make sure to include the following: name of restaurant, address, cuisine type (American, Thai, etc.), food tried, service quality, ambiance, general pricing, insider tips, etc.
Side note: I came up with this idea during a home teaching appointment so it has to be inspired...
Cheers!
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