Euphemia Haye

Chef owned and operated since 1980, Euphemia Haye Restaurant, is locally thought of as the best restaurant in Sarasota. Located inside a historic, wooden cottage, Euphemia Haye is hidden amongst a scenic “jungle” of tropical greenery where palm trees are studded in twinkly lights and birds of paradise are blooming. Located in the convenient location of Longboat Key, Euphemia Haye is a pleasant and scenic short drive from Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Sarasota and St. Armand's Circle. If you are visiting Anna Maria Island, this is the most exquisite and intimate dining you will find.

Sea Catch

Lovers of history and seafood can always find something to tempt the palate at Sea Catch Restaurant & Raw Bar in Georgetown. The surroundings are the essence of DC history and charm - a picturesque corner of Georgetown just steps from M Street, overlooking the beautiful C&O Canal. As one of the best restaurants in Georgetown, Sea Catch offers fresh seafood "simply prepared" in a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Closest Metro is Foggy Bottom.

Cava

Cava is Greek mezze/wine bar/martini lounge that brings a little more upscale eating experience to Barracks Row.  Replacing the former Marty’s restaurant, prepare to indulge in unique Greek-inspired dishes served mezze style—in small plates, but with portions large enough to share. Cava’s mezze-style dining inspires conversation and laughter at the table. The dim candle-lighting and black and white family photos adorning Cava’s charming brick interior walls creates a dark and mysterious atmosphere that appears far from casual to the local patrons of Barracks Row. Closest Metro is Eastern Market.

Marvin

Inspired by the story of Marvin Gaye's infamous two years in self-imposed exile in the small Belgian town of Ostend, the creators of Marvin have combined the cafe society of Belgium, with the proud soul of DC. This bistro and bar serves home cooked classics from Belgium to the American South. Upstairs at Marvin you'll find one of DC's best lounges and rooftop decks which is heated, partially covered, and open year round. Closest Metro is U Street – Cardozo.

Ray's the Steaks

Ray's the Steaks is an increasingly popular "poor man's" steakhouse located in the busy Clarendon/Courthouse area of Arlington. Owner Michael Landrum shook up the local steakhouse scene when he opened the original Ray's up the street at 1725 Wilson Blvd. in Arlington eight years ago and began serving good beef for about half the price of the competition. He didn't charge extra for sides, which came with the meal, and he didn't bother dressing up the joint with anything more than some paint on the walls. Serving spicy cashews for munching and unusual cuts of meat, expect Ray's to be packed any night of the week. Even though they now accept reservations, the place gets crowded quickly and sometimes you have to still wait. Closest Metro is Courthouse.

Michael John's Restaurant

Chef Michael John Auer's humble food beginnings consisted of cooking with his mother at age six, and ended with he being the successful executive chef and owner of Michael John's in Bradenton, Florida.  This American brasserie serves steak and seafood at unpretentious prices.  Low lit, with piano scene artwork, the brasserie has a medium sized dining area that is split in two.  Christmas music played softly in the background along with a blend of Sinatra and classic blues.  The service was attentive, and one of the few restaurants in town where the entrees really are cooked to order, and brought to you only when you are completely finished with your previous course.

Loukoulos

Last date I was here: 05/24/2011

Restaurant: Loukoulos (http://loukoulos-restaurant.gr/)

Location: Heraklion - Crete, Greece

Total Rating: 3.95
Food: 4, Price: 3, Service: 5, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 5

Summary: Located in the heart of Heraklion, Loukoulos is one of the most romantic restaurants we dined at. Serving contemporary Greek cuisine with French influences as well as traditional meals from their wood oven, Loukoulos balances formal and warm family dining with its open courtyard dining experience. This was our last meal in Crete and so we wanted to enjoy ourselves. Loukoulos was the most formal place we dined at, with nice linens on the table, comfortable chairs, and candlesticks. We were offered an amuse bouche of fresh vegetable soup that was both rustic in flavor yet refined in texture and taste. When my entree arrived, I was a little taken aback because I was not used to seeing scallops still in the shells, like mussels. With only a little bit of meat inside, I was a little disappointed with my choice, but it was a very fresh seafood experience. After our meal, we were again offered a complimentary shot of Raki.

What I ate:

Baked eggplant with feta cheese

Zucchini Balls

served with tzatziki sauce

Grilled Scallops

bay scallops in the shell served with lemon

Plus Keith ate:

Dorado

fresh whole fish grilled, served with vegetables

Ardeo + Bardeo

Last date I was here: 2/12/2011

Restaurant: Ardeo + Bardeo (http://www.cardeobardeo.com)

Location: Cleveland Park

Total Rating: 3.85
Food: 4, Price: 3, Service: 4, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 5

Summary: This modern American bistro and wine bar received a face lift in November 2010 and combined the two separate spaces into one for the relaunch from the team that brings you other DC highlights such as 701 and Rasika. Executive Chef Nate Garyantes has crafted a menu which features cured meats, soups and salads, savory snacks, seasonal vegetables dishes and brick oven baked flatbreads. Closest Metro is Cleveland Park.

We went to Ardeo + Bardeo for our Valentine's dinner. It is a very easy walk from the metro and as soon as we arrived, the loud buzz from the packed dimly lit restaurant greeted us. We were escorted upstairs on the "Bardeo" side of the house and seated in a small two top. The wine selection is quite generous and the specialty cocktails looked tasty as well. The menu has a selection of meats and cheeses to pizzas, pastas and main entrees. The small bites are indeed small and might be best to order at least two for sharing. Overall, the food was flavorful and the portions were on the smaller side. We had enough room to share a dessert at the end. I would recommend this place for groups to sit at the bar or communal table or for the casual date night.

What I ate:

Scallop Schnitzel

with bay scallops, young red cabbage, walnuts

Lobster and whole wheat spaghetti

with royal trumpets and squash

Heirloom apple cobbler
rum raisin ice cream

Plus Keith ate:

Seven hour braised leg of suckling pig
served with cheddar grits, blackeyed peas, redeye gravy, peanuts

Ici Urban Bistro

Last date I was here: 12/31/2010

Restaurant: Ici Urban Bistro (http://www.iciurbanbistro.com/)

Location: McPherson Square
Total Rating: 4.15
Food: 4, Price: 4, Service: 5, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 5

Summary: Located in the Sofitel Hotel at Lafayette Square, Ici Urban Bistro showcases a modern approach to classic French cuisine. Closest Metro is McPherson Square.

Keith and I chose Ici Urban to celebrate New Year's Eve. With the 6 course offering including a glass of champagne for $99 and the attaching Le Bar for an after party to watch the ball drop, we thought it was a good deal. We had the later seating, but I was surprised to see the restaurant not as full as expected. Also, I felt the festive decor to be a bit lacking for the celebration. They could have added some balloons, or something to spruce up the typical hotel restaurant feel. Regardless, our service was excellent with everyone speaking a few key French phrases here and there. We were immediately greeted with our glass of champagne and a lovely varietal bread basket. The first course was an amuse bouche of an oyster on the half shell. Second was the appetizer course, and I really enjoyed my scallops. Very fresh and cooked just right. Third was a palate cleanser of blood orange and Grand Marnier granita. Fourth was our main entree and although the portion size was good, I felt my risotto was a touch bland despite the shavings of black truffle mixed in. Keith tasted it and thought it was very good, which was seconded by the couple next to us who also ordered a side portion of the risotto. Perhaps my palate was too clean - ha ha. Fifth was a cheese sampling of some very strong French cheeses with grapes and walnuts. Sixth was the dessert, again a large portion, but I enjoyed it very much. Overall, my meal was very satisfying and having the extended courses was perfect to pass the time until it was closer to midnight. Afterwards, we walked over the the attached Le Bar, where there was more of a crowd, with 30 minutes to go until the countdown. We sat on a cushioned bench near the window and waited for the count down. It was a nice subdued way to end the evening and ring in the new year!

What I ate:

Pan Seared Scallops

Grilled pineapple, Chioggia baby beets confit

Black Truffle Risotto

Parmesan and arugula

Dark Chocolate Gourmandize

Roasted pecan crust, spiced cream

Plus Keith ate:

Roasted Quail and Foie gras Terrine

Shallot chutney, fresh tarragon

Butter Poached Maine Lobster

Chestnut purée, glazed turnips, Razor clams

Vanilla and Black Current Vacherin

Crispy meringue

1500 Ocean

Last date I was here: 03/16/2010

Restaurant: 1500 Ocean (http://www.dine1500ocean.com/)

Location: Coronado, CA

Total Rating: 4.75
Food: 5, Price: 4, Service: 5, Ambience: 5, Accessibility: 4


Summary: Enjoy glowing sunset colors and a beachfront cabana setting at 1500 Ocean Restaurant and Bar. The experience at this San Diego Coronado restaurant begins in the Sunset Bar -- the terrace entrance overlooking the Pacific. Such oceanfront terraced seating creates an intimate outdoor dining venue. Inside, this restaurant features two private dining venues and a wine vault. A signature glass wall with vibrant sunset hues also provides the backdrop for the bar and creates a radiant, energetic ambiance. The menu showcases the freshest Southland Coastal Cuisine, with selections from Santa Ynez to Cabo San Lucas. Featured wines from many local vineyards will complement the incredible culinary flavors.

I went to dinner at 1500 Ocean located within the famous Hotel Del with some coworkers and we had a truly fantastic meal. Since we were there on business, I think we decided to splurge a bit and just enjoy ourselves. Our server was extremely knowledgeable in the menu items and very helpful in suggesting wine pairings and answered all of our questions. We were greeted with a complimentary blush champagne and lobster salad amuse buche. Soon to follow was a basket of warm breads and muffins. All in all, we had a delicious meal at 1500 Ocean and the view of the Pacific Ocean was simply amazing. I would recommend this place to locals looking for a spot to celebrate a special event or romantic dining experience.

What I ate:

♥Maine Diver Scallops♥

grilled and served with black lentils, and fried squash in a light cream sauce

Bibiana

Last date I was here: 01/14/2010

Restaurant: Bibiana (http://www.bibianadc.com)

Location: Metro Center

Total Rating: 3.5

Food: 3, Price: 4, Service: 4, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 5

Summary: Bibiana, a 120-seat Italian restaurant, is award-winning Restaurateur Ashok Bajaj's newest addition to his stellar collection of elegant dining rooms in the nation's capital. Sleek Bibiana is appointed with dark wood, layers of art glass, black leather and lighting accents that speak of high-style Milano design. Serving Italian cuisine in a contemporary setting, Bibiana is a fresh restaurant in downtown DC. Closest Metro is Metro Center.

It is Restaurant Week again and Bibiana was our first stop this year. Although the decor was modern and simplistic, there was something a little bland and unorginal about the place. Our server was friendly and courteous, yet seemed pretentious and awfully nervous at times - spilling wine and dropping flatware. It was very awkward. The menu selection had more options than most places participating in RW. Although the food was fresh and hot, my agnolotti was bland, the rissoto was undercooked and over salted, and Keith's bean ragu was also undercooked. There just wasn't anything spectacular. Bibiana is a nice restaurant and the location is great, but I probably won't return any time soon as nothing stood out to me. Out of Bajaj's collection, I actually prefer 701 or Rasika to this place.

What I ate:

Agnolotti
Sheep's Milk Ricotta Agnolotti, Lemon, Marjoram, Spinach

Risotto
Carnaroli Risotto, Pesto Genovese, Diver Scallop Pine nut, Green Bean Salad

Panna Cotta
Vanilla Panna Cotta, Liquid Orange Center, Orange Streusel

Plus Keith ate:

Trippa alla Parmiggiana
Slow Braised Beef Tripe in Tomato, Parmiggiano

Razza
Plancha Seared Skate, Borlotti & Cannellini Bean Ragu', Herb Salad

Crema Fritta
Venetian Fried Pastry Cream

Union Oyster House

Last date I was here: 09/15/2009

Restaurant: Union Oyster House (http://www.unionoysterhouse.com/)

Location: Boston, MA

Total Rating: 3.55
Food: 4, Price: 3, Service: 2, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 3

Summary: A designated national landmark, Union Oyster House is one block from Faneuil Hall. The Union Oyster House is the oldest restaurant in Boston and the oldest restaurant in continuous service in the U.S. — the doors have always been open to diners since 1826. The new owners installed the fabled semi-circular Oyster Bar — where the greats of Boston paused for refreshment. The Kennedy Clan has patronized the Union Oyster House for years. J.F.K. loved to feast in privacy in the upstairs dining room. His favorite booth "The Kennedy Booth" has since been dedicated in his memory. Closest Metro is Haymarket.

I was in Boston for a work conference and went here the second night for dinner. A small line had already formed when we arrived and we were able to wait at the bar while a table became free. Typical bar setup downstairs with the dining room upstairs. Even though it was a Tuesday, the wait staff seemed overwhelmed and took very long before coming to our table to even say hello. With too many options to choose from on the menu, I opted for one of the chef’s specials of the night. The fresh complimentary cornbread served was absolutely delicious. If I had only ordered soup or something small, I would have asked for another piece. But I was already starting to fill up on the Sam Adam’s Boston Brick Red beer I had too. All in all, the Union Oyster House is a neat stop for tourists but a little pricey for every day fare.

What I ate:

Pan Seared Scallops
Served with rice pilaf and asparagus

Urbana Restaurant and Wine Bar

Last date I was here: 07/18/2009

Restaurant: Urbana Restaurant and Wine Bar (http://www.urbanadc.com/index.html)

Location: Dupont Circle

Total Rating: 4.5
Food: 5, Price: 4, Service: 3, Ambience: 4, Accessibility: 5

Summary: Urbana has been highlighted in many local papers and restaurant reviews and features an imaginative and approachable menu influenced by the rich culinary traditions of the Western Mediterranean. Offering signature pastas, pizzas from the wood-burning oven, grilled meats and seafood, Urbana is most popular for its Appertif Hour and specials that are available at the swanky bar from 4-7pm. Urbana is also known for its wine experience and displays an entire dining room filled with wine bottles as well as a list of 35 wines by the glass. The floor plan is open and split between the dining room to the left and a wood-burning oven in the back and the lounge/bar area to the right. The lighting is dim to create that romantic feel with direct spot lights to tables to make sure you look at your food. Closest Metro is Dupont Circle.

When we arrived for an early dinner, the dining room was empty except for one other couple. We were seated at a nice half circle booth towards the middle of the room – our backs to the kitchen. Our server informed us that tonight was a new menu featuring a 3 course tasting in celebration of Urbana’s third anniversary. After ordering our wine and perusing the menu, we decided to go ahead and try the tasting menu. Our scallops were cooked a little on the light side but tasted very good and the presentation was very pretty and colorful. As more patrons filled the room, our entrees took a while to come out. Our server kept using the excuse that the menu was new so the kitchen was backed up, but we saw another large table of 5 who has arrived as we were eating eating our appetizers and ordered our same dishes get served before we did. When our dishes did come out – there was a mix up of mine. The tasting menu listed a pappardelle with tomatoes and zuchinni in a light lemon butter sauce – however this was apparently a typo and was supposed to be the linguine dish where as the pappardelle is served with pork in a tomato sauce. The server was apologetic and the kitchen fired up the promised dish in quick time. The server informed us that it was indeed a mistake and that they would re-print all the menus before the next night’s service. I did not mind so much as the pasta was very light and fresh – exactly what I was anticipating. Our desserts were pretty and the perfect portion. Keith’s cheesecake was more like a panna cotta, but the flavors were there. All in all, Urbana was a classy restaurant with an ambitious persona to please its patrons. I would definitely come back again, especially since the small seasonal menus are constantly changing and the appertif hour is pretty good deal.

What I ate:

Seared Sea Scallops
With a white bean puree and red bell pepper and mango relish

Pappardelle
With grape tomatoes, zucchini, and pine nuts in a lemon butter sauce

Trio of Crème Brulee
espresso with brown butter maple foam
rosemary and caramelized apples
local honey with blueberry compote

Plus Keith ate:

Bacon wrapped Pork Loin
served with anson mills polenta, melted vidalia onions and baby carrots

Bananas Foster Cheesecake

The Orient Chinese Restaurant

Last date I was here: 06/05/2009

Restaurant: The Orient Chinese Restaurant

Location: Bethpage, NY

Total Rating: 4.3
Food: 5, Price: 4, Service: 4, Ambience: 2, Accessibility: 3

Summary: This Chinese restaurant is located in Bethpage on Long Island, NY and is known for its owner’s great service to loyal customers and quality of food. Serving classic Hunan style Chinese food, the Orient remains popular for both dining and take away meus. Although no reservations are accepted, you can call ahead to announce how many in your party are arriving – but expect a line waiting out the door upon arrival.

We went for a special dinner with Keith’s family and were seated in the side room where it is less noisy. The friendly service makes up for the lack of ambience. Our server, Angel, was very attentive and the owner, Tom, stopped by to announce his seafood specials of the night. All of the food we had tasted fresh and we shared everything with delight. I enjoyed having a little taste of everything. The soup was very good as a starter on the rainy night we went. The Orient is a favorite of Keith’s family and I hope to come back again in the future.

What I ate:

Hot and Sour Soup

Dim Sum

Fried Scallops (appetizer)

Sesame Chicken

Chicken and Broccoli

Steamed Branzini
Whole European sea bass steamed in a ginger scallion sauce

Scallops in Black Pepper Sauce
Served with baby bok choy

Plus Keith ate:

Seafood Soup

Fried Dumplings

Ribs

Beef Chow Fun

Craftsteak

Last date I was here: 02/25/2009

Restaurant: Craftsteak (http://www.mgmgrand.com/dining/craftsteak-steak-house.aspx/)

Location: Las Vegas - MGM

Total Rating: 4.55
Food: 5, Price: 3, Service: 5, Ambience: 5, Accessibility: 4


Summary: Craftsteak, located in the MGM Grand, is the creation of award winning chef Tom Colicchio, who is also the owner of Manhattan's Grammercy tavern. Replacing Big Apple-chic with Hollywood sleek, the wood floors and bronze and leather accents create the classy yet comfortable atmosphere of a lower east side hangout. Like the decor, natural ingredients procured by local farms and specialized venues are key in presenting the straight forward and sophisticated menu and extensive wine list. Using the purest ingredients and a philosophy that simpler is better, he makes every dish burst forth with flavor. While this famous steakhouse offers mainstays like Kobe Beef, it also tempts your taste buds with veal, salmon and lobster dishes.

We went to this restaurant to celebrate Keith’s birthday and I give it a 4 for accessibility because although it was very close to the hotel we are staying in, reservations are needed and so it may not be as easy for anyone to get in. Our experience at this steak restaurant was wonderful, despite having a head cold. We were explained the daily menu by our two servers for the evening and offered some fresh warm biscuits. Even though my taste buds were not at their fullest, I wanted to try something from every course and splurge for the special occasion. As they arrived in little copper plates and placed in the middle for sharing, we dove right in. Just to note, the first course portion was pretty large – the delicious grade A quality tuna dish that Keith ordered was divine and definitely generous enough for 2 or 3 people. We really enjoyed ourselves and the bill certainly showed it. This celebrity chef certainly did not let us down. Superb!

What I ate:

♥Lobster Bisque♥
w/ fresh chunks of lobster

Diver Sea Scallops
In a white butter sauce w/ shaved fennel

Sauteed Spinach

Baby Shiitake Mushrooms

Roasted Garlic and Leak Gratin

Plus Keith ate:

Yellowfin Tuna Crudo

♥Grilled Ribeye Steak♥
44 oz. served w/ roasted shallot

Spice Apple Cake
w/ Maple ice cream and toffee bits

Monkey Cake
Cinnamon cake with chocolate icing and chopped nuts served w/ toffee ice cream