If you're looking for a more modern, upscale Italian restaurant, this is the place for you. On the weekends after 9:00 pm there's a DJ and it converts into more like a lounge. Perfect place for a girls night out, birthday celebration, special occassion or just to go out and have a nice dinner. Ladies, if a man takes you to Mezzanotte, he has great taste so hold onto him! Lol For a quieter more intimate dinner, I recommend you go earlier in the evening or during the week.
We started with the Eperlani Fritti and the Salumeria Plate. My goodness, there was enough food for a group of 4! I personally prefer calamari, but the smelts were good. They could have used a bit more seasoning for my taste, but my date liked the sauce that came on the side so they were perfect for him. The salumeria plate was piled generously with prosciutto, sopresatta, capicolo, cheese, artichokes, olives and eggplant. I loved the eggplant. Just the right amount of seasoning with a bit of a bite. We couldn't finish either plate. The waiter smiled and kindly offered to hold our main courses so we could enjoy our drinks, talk a bit and make room for more.
The staff is always very welcoming and attentive. Your water glass is never empty and they quickly take away empty plates and glasses as you finish.
My date loved the bread and the wonderful combination of spices and garlic mixed into olive oil that you dip it into. It is extremely addictive and coupled with the appetizers, we were stuffed!
The main courses arrived. I ordered the Vitello al Giovanni. The veal is wrapped in prosciutto and stuffed with shrimp, mushroom and asiago cheese. It is served with a creamy cognac sauce, a potato croquette and fresh vegetables which included beets. The sauce was creamy and very flavourful, a perfect compliment to the saltiness of the prosciutto and the delicate texture of the shrimp. My date ordered the Pollo alla Mezzanotte. I'd have to say this is one of their signature dishes and it never disappoints. The chicken breast is stuffed with prosciutto cotto, asparagus, asiago cheese, red peppers and portobello mushrooms, drizzled with a marsala porcini mushroom sauce. The chicken was cooked perfectly. It was tender and moist. The various components of the stuffing add a burst of flavours and textures as you eat it. This plate also came with vegetables; mixed beets, bok choy, mushrooms and a potato croquette. Being a non-adventurous type of guy, he would have preferred carrots or broccoli to the beets and bok choy, but it just meant all the more veggies for me!
You won't leave feeling hungry given the large portions.
The presentation also adds to the experience. The main courses are artfully placed onto the plates and decorated with an edible orchid. Even the Salumeria Plate was served on a wooden cutting board with all the ingredients carefully placed. When food looks good to the eyes, it opens your appetite.
In case you hadn't figured it out, I've been to Mezzanote many times. My mother didn't like to eat out, but this was a favourite for her. If Mom liked it, it was better than good. She always had the Pollo alla Mezzanote. Over the years the décor has changed, but the quality of the food and the service remains consistent.
Prices are a bit higher, but in my opinion when you factor in the atmosphere, quality of the food, excellent service and variety....it's well worth it. Remember, you get what you pay for. My only complaint? If you make reservations for 2 the tables are too small for the size of the appetizer plates!!!! Lol
After all that food and a take home container, we didn't have any room left for dessert. We did however, order coffee which was also really good. It was a perfect way to end an excellent meal.
For great Italian food with flare, this is the place to go. Enjoy and buon appetito!
Carm the Foodie
Monday, 12 December 2016
Friday, 25 November 2016
DiVino Wine Studio - Ottawa, Ontario
A while back I had purchased a Groupon for this restaurant, but never got around to going. There was a plan to go out for "munchies". After a long week where most days I didn't have lunch, I decided if we were going to go out, I wanted dinner. At work this week I came across the expired Groupon and figured we may as well go there. It had gotten many good reviews and I could redeem the face value of the coupon.
It was the best decision ever! When you first walk in, you notice a modern yet rustic décor. The walls are earth tones with beautiful light fixtures and rustic wooden tables and chairs. At the back you see the open concept kitchen with a large table that surrounds it. The place isn't huge, but the tables are well spaced out. Even the tables for 2 are bigger than average so there's plenty of room and you don't feel cramped.
We were early for our reservation, but they seated us immediately. They were very warm and welcoming. Water was brought to the table and soon after the waiter came over with the menus and explained the table d'hote for that night as well as some of the other items on the menu. He further suggested the steak sharing plates that came with market vegetables. The cuts were from natural farm raised cattle, no feed or hormones. The farm belonged to the owner's wife's brother.
The menu is not extensive, but offers a good variety. Everything sounded good, but ultimately we decided to go with the steak sharing plate. The waiter came over and brought a second menu that detailed the various cuts available. We chose the 2lb bone-in rib steak with a side of roasted potatoes. To start we ordered a salad and house made broccoli soup with fresh herbs. As a point of interest, the soup was vegan friendly. Personally I'm a self proclaimed carnivore, but it just goes to show that this restaurant accommodates all eating preferences.
The salad looked pretty with fresh crisp apple slices, spinach, candied walnuts, bacon and feta cheese. My soup was delicious. It came drizzled with a balsamic reduction in a spider web design. The flavours were fantastic and I loved the texture.
We were caught off guard when the owner came over to our table with the steak for approval before they cooked it. Wow, it looked huge!
If you're a meat lover, you so have to go. The steak arrived at the table on a marble slab. It sat on a bed of cooked market vegetables. On the marble slab there was also a porcini butter, a beet puree and a squash sauce. Each sauce was better than the first, but the porcini butter was outstanding. It looked like hummus and had a similar texture, but as soon as you put it on your tongue you could taste the earthy rich mushroom flavour. I could eat that with their fresh made bread until the cows come home! I've never had porcini butter and it was fantastic. The sauces are all made in house and natural.
The presentation was also unlike anything we've ever seen. The meat was cut away from the bone and sliced. It was cooked a perfect medium-rare. You had smudges of the bright yellow squash sauce, small pyramids of the beet puree which was a vibrant fuchsia and a generous dollop of the porcini butter. The meat rested on a bed of market vegetables which included broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. As condiments, they brought us small blue glass jars with crushed sea salt, olive oil, balsamic reduction and parmigianno-reggiano. It's incredible how all the various elements married so well with each other. Each bite was full of texture and an explosion of flavours. It was all very fresh and natural tasting, if that makes any sense. Even the meat was very flavourful and lean, not your grocery store steak! The owner referred to it as a "cowboy cut". It truly was amazing, we were very pleasantly surprised.
Needless to say we had no room for dessert, but the profiteroles stuffed with tiramisu cream and drizzled with chocolate and espresso sauce would have been my choice. For those who are gluten allergic, they also had a deconstructed cheese cake. So again, something for everyone.
Some will probably think, there had to be something you would change. My response to that would be that the cappuccino could have had a denser more generous amount of foam. Just a personal preference.
Overall, this was an incredible choice. Nice when you venture into a new restaurant where you've never been and they blow you away. The atmosphere, variety and attentiveness of the staff was first rate. Even the chef came over at one point and was thrilled to see the bone of our steak sitting in the middle of the plate looking naked. He said, "That's exactly how it should look, I guess you enjoyed it". Given the quality and portion sizes, I find their prices to be very reasonable. It is a high end restaurant and well worth it.
You won't have to twist my arm to convince me to go back. I look forward to trying some of the other dishes on the menu. This was by far one of the best dining experiences I've had in a while. It is a real gem. The exterior is very unassuming and simple, they save the best for their food!
Try it out!
Carm the Foodie
It was the best decision ever! When you first walk in, you notice a modern yet rustic décor. The walls are earth tones with beautiful light fixtures and rustic wooden tables and chairs. At the back you see the open concept kitchen with a large table that surrounds it. The place isn't huge, but the tables are well spaced out. Even the tables for 2 are bigger than average so there's plenty of room and you don't feel cramped.
We were early for our reservation, but they seated us immediately. They were very warm and welcoming. Water was brought to the table and soon after the waiter came over with the menus and explained the table d'hote for that night as well as some of the other items on the menu. He further suggested the steak sharing plates that came with market vegetables. The cuts were from natural farm raised cattle, no feed or hormones. The farm belonged to the owner's wife's brother.
The menu is not extensive, but offers a good variety. Everything sounded good, but ultimately we decided to go with the steak sharing plate. The waiter came over and brought a second menu that detailed the various cuts available. We chose the 2lb bone-in rib steak with a side of roasted potatoes. To start we ordered a salad and house made broccoli soup with fresh herbs. As a point of interest, the soup was vegan friendly. Personally I'm a self proclaimed carnivore, but it just goes to show that this restaurant accommodates all eating preferences.
The salad looked pretty with fresh crisp apple slices, spinach, candied walnuts, bacon and feta cheese. My soup was delicious. It came drizzled with a balsamic reduction in a spider web design. The flavours were fantastic and I loved the texture.
We were caught off guard when the owner came over to our table with the steak for approval before they cooked it. Wow, it looked huge!
If you're a meat lover, you so have to go. The steak arrived at the table on a marble slab. It sat on a bed of cooked market vegetables. On the marble slab there was also a porcini butter, a beet puree and a squash sauce. Each sauce was better than the first, but the porcini butter was outstanding. It looked like hummus and had a similar texture, but as soon as you put it on your tongue you could taste the earthy rich mushroom flavour. I could eat that with their fresh made bread until the cows come home! I've never had porcini butter and it was fantastic. The sauces are all made in house and natural.
The presentation was also unlike anything we've ever seen. The meat was cut away from the bone and sliced. It was cooked a perfect medium-rare. You had smudges of the bright yellow squash sauce, small pyramids of the beet puree which was a vibrant fuchsia and a generous dollop of the porcini butter. The meat rested on a bed of market vegetables which included broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. As condiments, they brought us small blue glass jars with crushed sea salt, olive oil, balsamic reduction and parmigianno-reggiano. It's incredible how all the various elements married so well with each other. Each bite was full of texture and an explosion of flavours. It was all very fresh and natural tasting, if that makes any sense. Even the meat was very flavourful and lean, not your grocery store steak! The owner referred to it as a "cowboy cut". It truly was amazing, we were very pleasantly surprised.
Needless to say we had no room for dessert, but the profiteroles stuffed with tiramisu cream and drizzled with chocolate and espresso sauce would have been my choice. For those who are gluten allergic, they also had a deconstructed cheese cake. So again, something for everyone.
Some will probably think, there had to be something you would change. My response to that would be that the cappuccino could have had a denser more generous amount of foam. Just a personal preference.
Overall, this was an incredible choice. Nice when you venture into a new restaurant where you've never been and they blow you away. The atmosphere, variety and attentiveness of the staff was first rate. Even the chef came over at one point and was thrilled to see the bone of our steak sitting in the middle of the plate looking naked. He said, "That's exactly how it should look, I guess you enjoyed it". Given the quality and portion sizes, I find their prices to be very reasonable. It is a high end restaurant and well worth it.
You won't have to twist my arm to convince me to go back. I look forward to trying some of the other dishes on the menu. This was by far one of the best dining experiences I've had in a while. It is a real gem. The exterior is very unassuming and simple, they save the best for their food!
Try it out!
Carm the Foodie
Saturday, 19 November 2016
Cowrie Island, Palawan (The Philippines)
I visited the Philippines last winter with my sister. It was a tour organized by the Ambassdor to Canada. This was an incredible experience. The people, the food, the culture, the history, the scenery, the beaches....I could go on and about how wonderful everything was. I'll have to create several posts as we had numerous amazing gastronomic experiences during the 2 weeks we were there.
The most notable experience was during our island hoping tour in Palawan. We took a boat over to Cowrie Island. The sand was white with turquoise and teal pristine waters. It has to be the most beautiful beach and water I've seen to date. The waters were crystal clear and warm. It felt like you were taking a bath. All around you were tropical fish in a multitude of colours. They would swim right up to you. As you wade into the waters you also see different kinds of star fish and sea shells. This was paradise. I can see why Palawan was voted the #1 island in the world.
There was a small concession stand where you could buy fresh coconuts and other Philippine drinks and snacks. On the other side, they had several tables in cabanas set-up. As you walked further in, there was like a small market. Fishermen were out in boats and bringing in their fresh catches. It was incredible. They had lobsters, crab, various kinds of fish, scallops and clams to name a few. Just when you thought you'd seen it all, we find out they will cook the seafood you buy and bring it to you in the cabana. I was in heaven. Our group ordered a bit of everything.
After about 45 minutes, the food started to arrive. First it was the clam soup. The broth was fragrant and mild with the clams still tender and succulent. It was perfectly seasoned. Then it was the scallops. They were cooked in the shell with a spicy vegetable sauce. I was anxiously awaiting the lobster and I was not disappointed. Again it was cooked perfectly so that the meat was tender and moist. Dish after dish they kept coming out in what seemed to be a never ending caravan of food. We had ordered way too much, but none of us were going to let any of it go to waste. Some of the fish was prepared on the bar-b-q, others were fried and some baked. There was something for everyone and a few sides to compliment and complete the meal, not that we needed them! I don't think any of us ate dinner that night and we were still full the next day. We had gorged beyond belief. Not sure how any of us managed to walk back to the boat when it was time to leave. We actually extended our stay on the beach, we were having way too much fun to leave! Actually, we were so stuffed, we couldn't move.
Another thing that really stood out, was the fact that they understand that not everyone eats seafood or fish, so they brought in suckling pigs and chickens and roasted them on the bar-b-q. The meat and poultry was tender and well seasoned. It was obvious this meat had been marinated and they transported it over to the island by boat. Very smart. With tourism playing such a huge roll in their economy, they make sure everyone is accommodated and comfortable.
We were all amazed at how many different plates, preparations and seasonings they were able to concoct with such a primitive make shift set-up. Given the huge variety of dishes, you'd swear you were at a restaurant with a ginormous kitchen complete with a staff of dozens of chefs and cooks preparing all the food. I think there were maybe 5 people in a tiny hut with a home made bar-b-q in the back. There were 150 people on the island and most of them had ordered food, it was amazing how they managed to feed such a large group. They had open fires that they boiled water and made the soup over. Very creative and efficient. We could stand to learn a lot about simplicity. No fancy appliances or tools, they only have the bare essentials. Many of their tools were hand made.
This was an experience I will never forget. I will most definitely go back and strongly urge all of you to add Palawan to your bucket list. Seafood lovers will be in heaven. Having a Spanish/Latin background, seafood is a favourite in our house so I felt right at home.
Mabuhay!
Carm the Foodie
The most notable experience was during our island hoping tour in Palawan. We took a boat over to Cowrie Island. The sand was white with turquoise and teal pristine waters. It has to be the most beautiful beach and water I've seen to date. The waters were crystal clear and warm. It felt like you were taking a bath. All around you were tropical fish in a multitude of colours. They would swim right up to you. As you wade into the waters you also see different kinds of star fish and sea shells. This was paradise. I can see why Palawan was voted the #1 island in the world.
There was a small concession stand where you could buy fresh coconuts and other Philippine drinks and snacks. On the other side, they had several tables in cabanas set-up. As you walked further in, there was like a small market. Fishermen were out in boats and bringing in their fresh catches. It was incredible. They had lobsters, crab, various kinds of fish, scallops and clams to name a few. Just when you thought you'd seen it all, we find out they will cook the seafood you buy and bring it to you in the cabana. I was in heaven. Our group ordered a bit of everything.
After about 45 minutes, the food started to arrive. First it was the clam soup. The broth was fragrant and mild with the clams still tender and succulent. It was perfectly seasoned. Then it was the scallops. They were cooked in the shell with a spicy vegetable sauce. I was anxiously awaiting the lobster and I was not disappointed. Again it was cooked perfectly so that the meat was tender and moist. Dish after dish they kept coming out in what seemed to be a never ending caravan of food. We had ordered way too much, but none of us were going to let any of it go to waste. Some of the fish was prepared on the bar-b-q, others were fried and some baked. There was something for everyone and a few sides to compliment and complete the meal, not that we needed them! I don't think any of us ate dinner that night and we were still full the next day. We had gorged beyond belief. Not sure how any of us managed to walk back to the boat when it was time to leave. We actually extended our stay on the beach, we were having way too much fun to leave! Actually, we were so stuffed, we couldn't move.
Another thing that really stood out, was the fact that they understand that not everyone eats seafood or fish, so they brought in suckling pigs and chickens and roasted them on the bar-b-q. The meat and poultry was tender and well seasoned. It was obvious this meat had been marinated and they transported it over to the island by boat. Very smart. With tourism playing such a huge roll in their economy, they make sure everyone is accommodated and comfortable.
We were all amazed at how many different plates, preparations and seasonings they were able to concoct with such a primitive make shift set-up. Given the huge variety of dishes, you'd swear you were at a restaurant with a ginormous kitchen complete with a staff of dozens of chefs and cooks preparing all the food. I think there were maybe 5 people in a tiny hut with a home made bar-b-q in the back. There were 150 people on the island and most of them had ordered food, it was amazing how they managed to feed such a large group. They had open fires that they boiled water and made the soup over. Very creative and efficient. We could stand to learn a lot about simplicity. No fancy appliances or tools, they only have the bare essentials. Many of their tools were hand made.
This was an experience I will never forget. I will most definitely go back and strongly urge all of you to add Palawan to your bucket list. Seafood lovers will be in heaven. Having a Spanish/Latin background, seafood is a favourite in our house so I felt right at home.
Mabuhay!
Carm the Foodie
The Keg - Victoria, BC
The Keg is definitely one of my go to places. The food is relatively consistent, it varies a bit by location, but it you want great steak this is the place to go.
Last September I was working out in Victoria. That day there were numerous road closures and access to the downtown core was challenging. The taxi dropped me off a few blocks away and I stumbled upon a Keg. It was a welcomed surprise. I'd started work very early and hadn't eaten much so figured I may as well stop for an early dinner while the crowds die down.
This particular location was in an older building. I walked in and was greeted immediately by a gentleman that worked there. There were others close by and everyone was warm and friendly. I was escorted to a table on the second level. It was early. There might have been 3 table in total, so it quite which was nice. Often times I find The Keg can be quite loud so if you're planning a quite dinner, best to go early.
The waitress was also very bubbly and attentive. I looked through the menu and decided I wasn't going to order my usual. Time to try something different. A pistachio crusted salmon caught my eye. Typically I shy away from fish due to a bad experience as a child. I choked on a fish bone and was traumatised for years. At home I check, double check and triple check filets before preparing them. Oh well, life is too short you have to take chances sometimes. In the menu it was described as a salmon filet crusted with pistachios and served with brussel sprouts sautéed with bacon, garlic mashed potatoes and a maple butter drizzle. They had me at the pistachios and I love brussel sprouts so all was good. Plus who doesn't love bacon??? The waitress seemed surprised by my choice. I guess most people order steak. She smiled and said I would not be disappointed.
I indulged in a frozen margarita which was really, really good. Probably one of the best ones I've ever had. The food took a little while, but when my plate arrived it looked amazing. It was a fairly good sized portion of fish. Everything looked delicious and was perfectly placed. In fact it looked so good I had to take a picture. If I can figure out how to post it on my blog, I'll happily share it.
The fish was cooked perfectly. It was tender and moist. The pistachios added a nice crunch. When I took a bite with some mashed potatoes and brussel sprouts, there was a carnival of flavours and textures dancing in my mouth. The maple butter drizzle was to die for. I'm not a huge fan of maple syrup as I find it tends to have a bitter aftertaste, but this was wonderful. I wished there would have been more of it. It helped to balance the bitterness of the brussel sprouts by adding a subtle hint of sweetness.
My only negative comment would be that I found 4 fish bones. Thankfully it was more towards the end of the meal and there was no choking involved so I was able to finish the dish. I'll admit I had to force the last few bites in, but there was no way I was going to let any of it go to waste.
The habit of always finishing my plate may seem silly, but there are many good reasons for it. First of all growing up we didn't have a lot of money. Only Dad worked and there were many occasions where he was laid off or between jobs so Mom was great at never wasting anything. Every part of any animal was used. Food was never thrown out, that would be sacrilege. Secondly, I can be a bit particular. If something like soup is supposed to be hot, then I need it to be hot or I won't eat it or enjoy it. I often see people asking for doggy bags at restaurants and that's fine, but some foods need to eaten when prepared. Reheating will often over cook a beautiful dish. There are a few exceptions like stews and pasta's, but something as delicate as fish would definitely be over cooked and I just wouldn't enjoy it. Silly I know, but that's just me. Anything with bread usually results in the bread getting soggy and that makes me gag. Fried food, unless you're going to re-fry it, good luck cause you'll more than likely end up with a greasy soggy mess.
Back to my salmon. Once again, it was delicious. I found the price was very reasonable. The Keg is what I would consider a higher end restaurant so I fully expect prices to be a bit higher. Overall it was an excellent experience. The staff was attentive and smiling which further enhances the dining experience. My plate was beautiful making it all the more appetizing and I wasn't disappointed. Don't you just hate it when something looks good, but then it doesn't taste good?
I would strongly recommend this dish. For those who like fish, you will not be disappointed. The combination of the pistacchios, brussel sprouts, bacon and the maple butter drizzle really tone down the fish so it would also be a good choice for those that don't like strong fishy tastes.
Check it out, would love to get your feedback!
Carm Foodie
Last September I was working out in Victoria. That day there were numerous road closures and access to the downtown core was challenging. The taxi dropped me off a few blocks away and I stumbled upon a Keg. It was a welcomed surprise. I'd started work very early and hadn't eaten much so figured I may as well stop for an early dinner while the crowds die down.
This particular location was in an older building. I walked in and was greeted immediately by a gentleman that worked there. There were others close by and everyone was warm and friendly. I was escorted to a table on the second level. It was early. There might have been 3 table in total, so it quite which was nice. Often times I find The Keg can be quite loud so if you're planning a quite dinner, best to go early.
The waitress was also very bubbly and attentive. I looked through the menu and decided I wasn't going to order my usual. Time to try something different. A pistachio crusted salmon caught my eye. Typically I shy away from fish due to a bad experience as a child. I choked on a fish bone and was traumatised for years. At home I check, double check and triple check filets before preparing them. Oh well, life is too short you have to take chances sometimes. In the menu it was described as a salmon filet crusted with pistachios and served with brussel sprouts sautéed with bacon, garlic mashed potatoes and a maple butter drizzle. They had me at the pistachios and I love brussel sprouts so all was good. Plus who doesn't love bacon??? The waitress seemed surprised by my choice. I guess most people order steak. She smiled and said I would not be disappointed.
I indulged in a frozen margarita which was really, really good. Probably one of the best ones I've ever had. The food took a little while, but when my plate arrived it looked amazing. It was a fairly good sized portion of fish. Everything looked delicious and was perfectly placed. In fact it looked so good I had to take a picture. If I can figure out how to post it on my blog, I'll happily share it.
The fish was cooked perfectly. It was tender and moist. The pistachios added a nice crunch. When I took a bite with some mashed potatoes and brussel sprouts, there was a carnival of flavours and textures dancing in my mouth. The maple butter drizzle was to die for. I'm not a huge fan of maple syrup as I find it tends to have a bitter aftertaste, but this was wonderful. I wished there would have been more of it. It helped to balance the bitterness of the brussel sprouts by adding a subtle hint of sweetness.
My only negative comment would be that I found 4 fish bones. Thankfully it was more towards the end of the meal and there was no choking involved so I was able to finish the dish. I'll admit I had to force the last few bites in, but there was no way I was going to let any of it go to waste.
The habit of always finishing my plate may seem silly, but there are many good reasons for it. First of all growing up we didn't have a lot of money. Only Dad worked and there were many occasions where he was laid off or between jobs so Mom was great at never wasting anything. Every part of any animal was used. Food was never thrown out, that would be sacrilege. Secondly, I can be a bit particular. If something like soup is supposed to be hot, then I need it to be hot or I won't eat it or enjoy it. I often see people asking for doggy bags at restaurants and that's fine, but some foods need to eaten when prepared. Reheating will often over cook a beautiful dish. There are a few exceptions like stews and pasta's, but something as delicate as fish would definitely be over cooked and I just wouldn't enjoy it. Silly I know, but that's just me. Anything with bread usually results in the bread getting soggy and that makes me gag. Fried food, unless you're going to re-fry it, good luck cause you'll more than likely end up with a greasy soggy mess.
Back to my salmon. Once again, it was delicious. I found the price was very reasonable. The Keg is what I would consider a higher end restaurant so I fully expect prices to be a bit higher. Overall it was an excellent experience. The staff was attentive and smiling which further enhances the dining experience. My plate was beautiful making it all the more appetizing and I wasn't disappointed. Don't you just hate it when something looks good, but then it doesn't taste good?
I would strongly recommend this dish. For those who like fish, you will not be disappointed. The combination of the pistacchios, brussel sprouts, bacon and the maple butter drizzle really tone down the fish so it would also be a good choice for those that don't like strong fishy tastes.
Check it out, would love to get your feedback!
Carm Foodie
Thursday, 17 November 2016
Food, food and more food!
I have to credit my Mother for my love of food. She was an incredible cook. The start of her cooking career was quite sad, but in the end her greatest accomplishment, after her kids of course. At a very young age after a devastating tsunami, her parents gave her away in the hopes she would have a better life in the city. She was the youngest of 8 children. I don't think she ever forgave her parents for what they did, even though they had the best of intentions. Life was extremely difficult. At the tender age of 7, she became a house maid/servant and cook. School was out of the question, she had to work for her room and board. Sad that she could barely write her name, yet she could do math calculations in her head and learned Italian and Portuguese with ease.
She could cook and bake just about anything. I'm still in awe that someone that couldn't read or write could cook the way she did. She was self taught with no professional training. I must have been 12 when I realized she couldn't read or write, no one knew. It was a well kept secret. She did a great job pretending that she could.
Growing up we had to eat whatever she made. If you didn't eat obviously you weren't hungry. Not liking something was not an option. The same applied if we were invited out to a friend's for a meal. God help you if you told the host you didn't like what they made. It was a mistake you'd never make twice, especially if you were sitting next to or across from one of my parents. A good kick in the shins and stern stare made sure you'd finish what was on your plate. Mom always said, "You eat whatever they put in front of you." We weren't allowed to say we didn't like something without trying it, not that it mattered if you did try it and still didn't like it! Lol The wooden spoon was her weapon of choice! Lol Lucky for me I ate pretty much anything. My siblings, well that was another story. I think my sister still holds the record for the most broken wooden spoons. I know some of you can probably guess how they broke. Another rule was that you didn't get up from the table until your plate was clean and everyone was finished eating. To this day I struggle with not leaving anything on my plate. My friends are always in awe and they know that if I don't finish something, it must be pretty bad.
At home we were always surrounded by food. Mom became a caterer after she arrived in Canada. She cooked for almost all of the Spanish speaking embassies and many others. At one point she was offered the position of head chef at the Governor General's residence. Dad didn't let her take it, he wanted her at home with us. She mostly worked out of our house.
We learned to eat everything. The butcher at Steinbergs often gave my Mom stuff for free. After all, who would pay for chicken hearts and gizzards, liver, beef tongue, ox tail, tripe and countless other cuts that were considered garbage or scraps. With the influx of various immigrants, funny how many of these things are now seen as delicacies and quite expensive.
Growing up we'd take roast beef wellington to school for lunch while the other kids had tuna salad or peanut butter sandwiches. I didn't have my first hot dog until I was 9! I thought is was the most awesomest thing ever and ketchup was to die for! When I told Mom I'd had a hot dog, she was mortified. "Who would dare feed my child cocktail food? You're never eating there again, hot dogs are not a meal. These people have no idea how to eat!" At school we'd be embarrassed to open our lunch boxes. A crowd would always form waiting to see what we had. Other kids would offer to pay for our lunches. Looking back we could've made a fortune! Meanwhile I'd trade for sandwiches and Ritz crackers. Can you believe that to this day I've never had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? For Mom peanut butter was a treat and she'd give us a teaspoon to lick once in a while.
Hence this is where my love of food started. I've passed this on to my children. We have a household of Foodies which can be challenging to say the least! Amazing that even my 5-year old knows what lobster and leg of lamb are and don't try to serve her steak that isn't medium rare.
I remember going to T&T Market one day and buying a huge lobster. On my way home I called the kids and told them to fill the bath tub, I was bringing home a new pet. I dropped the lobster in the tub. What a commotion, but my youngest looks up at me and says, "Mommy, aren't we going to eat him? I don't want a pet lobster?" So not what I expected to hear. I think most kids would be having a crying fit begging to keep it as a pet!
Oh well. I'll use this blog to provide feedback on the different restaurants and foods we try. Everything will be touched on including the menu, options, presentation, price, taste, value and service. I certainly won't exclude meals prepared by friends and family as they can be quite amazing too. My children will also provide input given their love of food and very distinguished tastes. Kids menus can be interesting and their opinions matter too!
Our opinions are just that, opinions. Some may agree, others will not and that's fine. We are in no way experts or professionals. All I can say is that as a single mom of 4, quality and value play a huge role in my food decisions. I don't mind paying for quality. On the other hand I also expect good service.
Eat, drink and be merry! I hope you enjoy the blog and our various food adventures.
Carm Foodie
She could cook and bake just about anything. I'm still in awe that someone that couldn't read or write could cook the way she did. She was self taught with no professional training. I must have been 12 when I realized she couldn't read or write, no one knew. It was a well kept secret. She did a great job pretending that she could.
Growing up we had to eat whatever she made. If you didn't eat obviously you weren't hungry. Not liking something was not an option. The same applied if we were invited out to a friend's for a meal. God help you if you told the host you didn't like what they made. It was a mistake you'd never make twice, especially if you were sitting next to or across from one of my parents. A good kick in the shins and stern stare made sure you'd finish what was on your plate. Mom always said, "You eat whatever they put in front of you." We weren't allowed to say we didn't like something without trying it, not that it mattered if you did try it and still didn't like it! Lol The wooden spoon was her weapon of choice! Lol Lucky for me I ate pretty much anything. My siblings, well that was another story. I think my sister still holds the record for the most broken wooden spoons. I know some of you can probably guess how they broke. Another rule was that you didn't get up from the table until your plate was clean and everyone was finished eating. To this day I struggle with not leaving anything on my plate. My friends are always in awe and they know that if I don't finish something, it must be pretty bad.
At home we were always surrounded by food. Mom became a caterer after she arrived in Canada. She cooked for almost all of the Spanish speaking embassies and many others. At one point she was offered the position of head chef at the Governor General's residence. Dad didn't let her take it, he wanted her at home with us. She mostly worked out of our house.
We learned to eat everything. The butcher at Steinbergs often gave my Mom stuff for free. After all, who would pay for chicken hearts and gizzards, liver, beef tongue, ox tail, tripe and countless other cuts that were considered garbage or scraps. With the influx of various immigrants, funny how many of these things are now seen as delicacies and quite expensive.
Growing up we'd take roast beef wellington to school for lunch while the other kids had tuna salad or peanut butter sandwiches. I didn't have my first hot dog until I was 9! I thought is was the most awesomest thing ever and ketchup was to die for! When I told Mom I'd had a hot dog, she was mortified. "Who would dare feed my child cocktail food? You're never eating there again, hot dogs are not a meal. These people have no idea how to eat!" At school we'd be embarrassed to open our lunch boxes. A crowd would always form waiting to see what we had. Other kids would offer to pay for our lunches. Looking back we could've made a fortune! Meanwhile I'd trade for sandwiches and Ritz crackers. Can you believe that to this day I've never had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? For Mom peanut butter was a treat and she'd give us a teaspoon to lick once in a while.
Hence this is where my love of food started. I've passed this on to my children. We have a household of Foodies which can be challenging to say the least! Amazing that even my 5-year old knows what lobster and leg of lamb are and don't try to serve her steak that isn't medium rare.
I remember going to T&T Market one day and buying a huge lobster. On my way home I called the kids and told them to fill the bath tub, I was bringing home a new pet. I dropped the lobster in the tub. What a commotion, but my youngest looks up at me and says, "Mommy, aren't we going to eat him? I don't want a pet lobster?" So not what I expected to hear. I think most kids would be having a crying fit begging to keep it as a pet!
Oh well. I'll use this blog to provide feedback on the different restaurants and foods we try. Everything will be touched on including the menu, options, presentation, price, taste, value and service. I certainly won't exclude meals prepared by friends and family as they can be quite amazing too. My children will also provide input given their love of food and very distinguished tastes. Kids menus can be interesting and their opinions matter too!
Our opinions are just that, opinions. Some may agree, others will not and that's fine. We are in no way experts or professionals. All I can say is that as a single mom of 4, quality and value play a huge role in my food decisions. I don't mind paying for quality. On the other hand I also expect good service.
Eat, drink and be merry! I hope you enjoy the blog and our various food adventures.
Carm Foodie
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