phoebek's Profile
8/16/10; EGGPLANT, How Do I Love Thee?Let Me Count the Ways
Baingan Bhartha at Punjab in Arlington
Jose's Cambridge recent experience
That's definitely sub-par. I used to like the chiles rellenos at Jose's, and IIRC, the serving size was 2 peppers.
Reservations for Taranta Friday 6/26- what should we order?
I was there a couple of weeks ago. Definitely get the mussels for an appetizer. I had the grilled trout--don't remember if it was a special that night, but it was wonderful. DCs had the tuna and the salmon--everyone was more than satisfied. Enjoy!
Silver Spring recs
Thanks to everyone for these recommendations. It'll take the pressure off having to go back and forth into DC.
Silver Spring recs
We'll be staying in Silver Spring for a family wedding at the end of June. Though I imagine we'll spend a fair amount of time in DC, I'm wondering if there are any stand-out places in Silver Spring itself. Our hotel is in downtown SS--Fenton St. We like many different types of food, but are not keen on steakhouses or sushi. Any info or recommendations greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Is Craigie brunch kid friendly?
Understandably, but I think there's a difference between kid-friendly and kid-focused. If a kids' menu is what people are looking for, there are other places to go.
the friendly toast opening in cambridge!
I agree. Love the FT in Portsmouth, wish them nothing but the best in Cambridge. Yeah, it's not pristine, but better than the old Someday!
Why do we suddenly need to confirm plans?!?
Yes, queencru, as it turned out, you were absolutely correct. My friend had responded by email, but for some reason it never came through. In the end, we went forward with the dinner party and had a lovely time! Lesson learned: always follow up by phone.
Why do we suddenly need to confirm plans?!?
I understand that people don't always respond to emails promptly, but this person usually emails her dinner/party invitations and has internet access both at home and work. I've also tried to call, but got the message that their voicemail box was full.
Why do we suddenly need to confirm plans?!?
I think that's a great idea, but I'm likely to see my friend (the wife) today, so I'm planning to be assertive and tell her that since we didn't hear from them, we made other plans.
Why do we suddenly need to confirm plans?!?
Your situation seems quite weird to me. What I find difficult to deal with is what I call "noncommittal guests." Here's a prime example: We invited another couple over for dinner approximately a month ago, as that was the first free weekend for everyone. About a week after the invitation was extended, the wife says, "I think we can make it. . ." A week or so later, she says, "I think we can make it. . ." Then nothing. About a week before the date, I send an email, confirming the date and giving a time. No response. 3-4 days later, I send a second email. No response. I'm hoping that I'm correct in assuming that they're not coming, because at this point, it would be pretty difficult for me to feel anything but annoyed. Has anyone else encountered this type of situation?
Bathroom Attendants
Nope, you're not unusual. I find it irritating, too. And if I don't take my purse into the bathroom, I just smile apologetically, and say, "sorry, I left my purse at the table."
When a waiter asks: "How is everything?" do you ever tell him "not good?"
Years ago, I responded, "meh," and the server was really taken aback. I don't remember exactly what the issue was--nothing really horrible, I'm sure--but we ended up being comped coffee and dessert, which I thought was an incredibly generous response on the part of the restaurant.
Recipe Software
Here's what I do--Rather than type in recipes, I only keep lists of ingredients as Word files--one folder for apps, one for soups, one for veggies, entrees, etc. On the ingredient list I note where the recipe is located (anything from Julia Child's books to "blue folder" ). This makes it relatively simple to plan menus and pull together a shopping list. I don't blame you for not wanting to pay for recipes you don't want!
Bottles for homemade liqueur
Right on MC Slim! I wandered over to China Fair in Cambridge and found exactly what I was looking for--they have 1 L, .5 L, and .25 L sizes, all with those Grolsch-like stoppers. The bottles are from Italy, seem sturdy, and are quite attractive. Prices ranged from 1.99 for the small bottle to 3.49 for the big one--maybe not the cheapest alternative, but I only needed a few.
Bottles for homemade liqueur
Can anyone recommend a place to buy a small quantity (maybe 6-8) 375 ml bottles? I've checked at the beer making supply place in North Cambridge, and the minimum they'll sell is a case of 24.
Serving lamb shanks
That's what I think, too. The ones I got are not very big, but still look like a lot of meat to me. I totally appreciate the drama of serving the whole thing, but then, what do I do if someone leaves a substantial quantity?? I'm not sure I'd want to eat or serve the leftovers. . .
Tuna Salad Sandwiches
My friend Pamela's version--it is terrific. Water-packed white tuna mixed with a little mayo (Hellman's, I think), diced pear, and a handful of raisins. Serve with lettuce on best quality oatmeal bread. Sorry not to have measurements--we just play it by ear. . .
Serving lamb shanks
I just bought some lovely lamb shanks at our local farmers' market. I haven't cooked them before, but I've got lots of ideas and recipes to try. One rather elementary question looms, however. Since not everyone would be able to eat an entire shank, is it permissible to serve the meat off the bone? How do you serve them?
Jose's Cambridge recent experience
I don't even remember what I had the last time I was there (a few months back), but what really struck me was the relatively high price for a pretty weak margarita. I know the food is nothing to get excited about, but I'd rather go to Rudy's in Teele Square and get one of theirs--even one made with Rudy's house tequila is better.
Mama Maria booked - Taranta, Mistral or where else?
I'm so glad you had a good experience at Prezza, because that's one of my favorites. I'd also agree with Ralphie (below) that Taranta is another good choice.
Open Table is a joke [split from Boston board]
Interesting--the last time we ate at Prezza (I think in August), I booked through OT. We didn't have any of the same problems you cite--which doesn' t mean you weren't treated badly, but I'd place the blame squarely on the FOH staff you encountered.
does the gesture outweigh choice?
I'm in the "it's the thought that counts" camp. Once when DH and I had dinner at a local place, there were a few glitches (long wait between apps and entree, one entree overcooked). We ordered one dessert and the resto comped us another--not what we would've necessarily ordered, but we were happy to see that they were trying to "make it right" for us.
Singa Bella Cafe, Cambridge
Thanks for the rec. I walk by this place a couple of times a week, but it's usually later in the evening and it's been totally deserted.
local Italian in north end- need recs, dont want to get tourist trapped
I'll recommend Prezza--fabulous food and a huge wine list--though they have pages of really high end stuff, you can also get reasonably priced bottles.
