Category Archives: Food

I love eating delicious food and different cuisines.  This Food category has a collection of posts on my favorite restaurants and the unique food I tried.

All Posts, Fashion, Food, Top Five

5 Friday Favorites

I feel like it has been too long since the last national holiday (4th of July). I am very excited for this long Labor Day weekend. Although today is only Friday, I can’t help not to think about the five favorite things that I want to do soon.

Sandals for out in the Sun

Summer is the best time wearing sandals while I am out and about. I want to wear my favorite sandals before the season is over. If you like to shop, make sure you take the advantages of the sandal sales from various department stores.

PradaStudded Slingback Sandal, Orange

“Dutch Babies” (Baked Pancake) for Brunch

I recently tried something I’ve never had before, Dutch Babies – baked pancake with chorizo, grilled corn, and green peppers. It served with syrup, so I could eat it with syrup as a sweet treat or with tabasco for a taste of salty/spicy breakfast. That was like getting the best of both worlds. I’d love to have it again soon.

Dutch Baby - Baked Pancake

Fashion Magazines for Fall Trends

I love Fall fashion. To all the fashion magazine houses, September issue is “THE Issue”. I received all of my September subscriptions for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and People StyleWatch. I can’t wait to read them and get ready for the upcoming season.

Vogue Magazine

Wine Tasting for Fun

It has been a while since I went on a wine tasting adventure. I want to take the opportunity of the last straw of the warm weather to go to a winery to sip on the “red juice”.

Wine Tasting at Chateau Ste Michelle Winery

The Great Gatsby for Good Old Time

I used to like reading The Great Gatsby novel and watching its earlier version movie starred by Robert Redford. I thought Robert Redford was handsome and played the character well. Leonard Dicaprio is one of my favorite actors, but I wasn’t sure how well I would like Leonard as Gatsby in the movie. I’ve been postponing seeing the new Great Gatsby for too long. I think it’s time to watch it for the sake of the stylish costume in the movie and the memory of reading books in high school.

The Great Gatsby

Enjoy the Friday before the long weekend!

All Posts, Food, Travel

Bourbon Steak Restaurant in San Francisco

Recently I was in San Francisco for a wedding and I stayed at the Westin St. Francis Hotel. It’s an old hotel, originally built in the early 1900s and had a different feel from the hotels I frequently visit in Las Vegas and also different from the other Westin hotels I’ve stayed at elsewhere. On one evening, I ate dinner at the Bourbon Steak restaurant in the Westin St. Francis. Bourbon Steak is a Michael Mina restaurant. The restaurant is very woody — meaning somewhat dark and traditional. I really didn’t know exactly what to expect but let me get to the point and say I was very pleased with my dining experience.

Before dinner I had a drink at the small bar in the restaurant. I had a glass of Volver house red wine. It was good but nothing exceptional, but the bartender, Adam, was very personable and made the pre-meal drink very nice. Before being seated in the dining room I ordered the house specialty French fries. There were three types, with three distinct seasonings and three sauces. These French fries were really good.

After I was seated in the dining room, I ordered the pan roasted halibut with crab, almonds, and fennel. On a scale of 1 to 10 I’d give the meal a solid 8. Because my friends and I had side dishes of mashed potatoes, and Michael Mina’s special black truffle mac & cheese, and sauteed spinach, the meal was more than filling.

Overall, I give Bourbon Steak restaurant by Michael Mina a strong recommendation. The prices are a bit high but I felt the environment, the service, and food were well worth the price.

Halibut
SideDishes
Candy

All Posts, Food, Travel

85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, California

I visit my family in Irvine, California several times a year. There are some favorite places that I go to frequently during each visit. One of them is the 85°C Bakery Cafe, a Taiwanese bakery chain introduced to Southern California several years ago.

Why do I like the 85°C Bakery Cafe so much? I love to eat desserts, breads/pastry, and drink milk tea. And this bakery has everything I love. They make yummy cakes with fancy decorations. They also make a variety of breads/pastry (from my favorite marble taro to egg tart). And they have my favorite drinks (coffee jelly milk tea and sea salt coffee) which I can’t get from anywhere else. Their coffee jelly milk tea is the best! I can drink it EVERYDAY!

One amazing phenomena about the 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine is its long customer line in the morning, afternoon, and at night (right before they close at 10:00pm). Customers are willing to wait for more than 30 minutes just to get into the bakery to choose what they want. After they pick up their selection they have to get into another crowded line to pay and order their drinks. However, the long lines don’t seem to bother people who are determined to get their treats of the day.

It’s not a surprise to my friends how crazy I am about this bakery. Every time I go I would get several boxes/bags of goodies and eat them for breakfast, snacks between meals, and late night treats. But what surprises me is that most customers in that stores are like me. They get the items in large quantities that look like enough to feed a big family!

The new Travel Channel recently featured a video on the 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine. To hear more about it, go to 85°C Bakery in Irvine.

Cakes and Desserts from 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, CA
Cakes and Desserts from 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, CA
Breads from 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, CA
Breads from 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, CA
Breads from 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, CA
Breads from 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, CA
Breads from 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, CA
Cake by Slices from 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, CA
All Posts, Food, Travel

Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina in Vegas

Wolfgang Puck has several restaurants in Las Vegas, ranging from casual (Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill in the MGM Grand) to fine dining (Cut at the Palazzo). On my most recent trip to Vegas I ate at the Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina located in the Crystals Shopping Center right next to the Aria Hotel. I’d classify WP Cucina as a mid-range restaurant, somewhere between casual and fine dining.

I was looking forward to ordering lasagna so I could compare it to other lasagnas I’ve had in Vegas. To be honest, the lasagna at WP Cucina was a mild disappointment. It wasn’t bad by all means but it clearly didn’t come close to the lasagnas I’ve had at Sinatra (Encore Hotel) or Allegro (Wynn). The WP Cucina lasagna’s cheese was a bit too mild and soft for my taste.

I also shared an Italian Sausage pizza with Rapini, Caramelized Garlic, and Pecorino Romano. The pecorino (sheep’s cheese) and rapini (a type of broccoli) gave the pizza a very different but good taste. And it is one of my traditions to always have at least one side order of meatballs every trip, so I ordered the Grilled Meatballs, Red Pepper-Olive Ragu, Pecorino Toscano. The meatballs’ taste was also different but interesting and good. My friend had Rigatoncini (pasta), Piedmontese Meat Sauce, Parmesan, which was the best dish of the evening, and Tuscan White Bean Soup, Prosciutto, Rigatoni Pasta, that was also excellent.

All in all, I highly recommend Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina at the Crystals Shopping Center if you’re in the mood for an medium-upscale Italian restaurant in Las Vegas.

Wolfgang Puck Bread
Wolfgang Puck Bread
Wolfgang Puck Grilled Meatballs
Grilled Meatballs, Red Pepper-Olive Ragu, Pecorino Toscano
Italian Sausage pizza with Rapini, Caramelized Garlic, and Pecorino Romano
Italian Sausage pizza with Rapini, Caramelized Garlic, and Pecorino Romano
Wolfgang Puck Lasagna
Wolfgang Puck Lasagna
Rigatoncini (pasta), Piedmontese Meat Sauce, Parmesan
Rigatoncini (pasta), Piedmontese Meat Sauce, Parmesan

 

All Posts, Food, Travel

The Hyde at Bellagio in Las Vegas

On my most recent trip to Las Vegas I visited the Hyde lounge / nightclub at the Bellagio for the first time. My overall impression: good but not great unless you’ve never seen the famous Bellagio water fountain show.

Hyde(the name doesn’t really do much for me – not sure what the name is supposed to bring to mind) is a nightclub starting at 10:00pm on “clubbing nights” (Friday, Saturday, and other days depending on the season and events going on) and a lounge starting at 5:00pm on most days. It’s hard to pin down exactly what gives a lounge a comfortable, inviting feel. To my friend, Hyde seemed a bit too night-clubby and not quite enough loungy, but I felt the opposite – a bit too loungy. Maybe Hyde is trying to be two different things.

The décor was very modern but maybe a little bit too dark. I enjoy people watching while sitting at a bar. The layout of Hyde was OK but not optimal for this because the bar faced a wall. But the entire east wall of Hyde is made of glass, which gives a fantastic view of the Fountains of Bellagio (water fountain show). The seating areas were arranged in traditional lounge style in pods that can accommodate about six to a dozen people.

On the plus side, my bartenders Erica and Dave were very personable, and I met some interesting, fun people while enjoying my drink. Erica recommended a house specialty drink called a Love Unit. The ingredients sound very, very strange – vodka, basil, lime, grapefruit, and bell pepper! Surprisingly, these ingredients worked very well together.

All things considered, I liked Hyde a lot but for a lounging experience at Bellagio I think I prefer the more classical open area Petrossian lounge and the Baccarat Bar lounge.

Hyde
Hyde – Front Entrance
Love Unit Cocktail from the Hyde at Bellagio
Love Unit Cocktail from the Hyde at Bellagio
Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas
Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas
LED Back Lit Check Presenter at the Hyde
LED Back Lit Check Presenter at the Hyde

 

All Posts, Food, Travel

Michael Mina Restaurant at Bellagio in Vegas

During my most recent trip to Las Vegas, I ate dinner at Michael Mina (MM) in the Bellagio Hotel. Michael Mina is classified as an “innovative seafood” restaurant. Overall, the meal and experience were fantastic, and when I update my list of Top Ten Restaurants in Vegas, I’m certain that Michael Mina will bump an existing restaurant off and join the list.

The entrance to MM is near the Bellagio’s famous conservatory which is a must-see if you’re anywhere near Bellagio. MM is what I’d call medium-size and the initial visual impression was very nice.

Our waiter, Paul, was excellent. Paul carefully answered all my questions about the menu items – there were lots of items that I had no idea what they were. I decided to order the chef’s tasting menu.

The meal started with tuna tartare. It was very different from others I’ve had; it had pine seeds, Asian pear, and sesame oil which gave the dish a unique taste. After the appetizer, I had Michael Mina’s house specialty lobster pot pie. It was delicious – very rich but the moderate portion was just right. My second main course was American Wagyu ribeye steak. The portion was small, about 3 ounces, but it complemented the pot pie perfectly. My dessert had three items: cheesecake with blueberries, passion fruit panna cotta, a mini root beer float, and chocolate chip cookies.

I talked to the restaurant manager David, and complimented the service, food, and experience. He was very gracious and gave me his business card. I learned he has been promoted to the general manager of a MM restaurant in Dana Point, California.

Michael Mina was a bit pricey, but really only just a bit more than other fine restaurants in Las Vegas. I felt MM was a great value considering the entire experience. MM isn’t for everyone, but if you don’t mind paying a premium price for a premium meal, I recommend Michael Mina.

Michael Mina at Bellagio
Ahi Tuna Tartare at Michael Mina restaurant
Michael Mina at Bellagio
Lobster Pot Pie from Michael Mina restaurant
Michael Mina at Bellagio
3oz. American Wagyu Ribeye from Michael Mina restaurant
Michael Mina at Bellagio
King Salmon from Michael Mina restaurant
Michael Mina at Bellagio
Dessert Tasting Trio from Michael Mina at Bellagio
Michael Mina at Bellagio
Front view of Michael Mina at Bellagio
All Posts, Food, Travel

Jean Philippe Patisserie in Las Vegas

One of my all-time favorite bakeries is the Jean Philippe Patisserie (at Aria Hotel). During my most recent trip to Las Vegas, I stayed at the Bellagio Hotel. Although there is a Jean Philippe at the Bellagio, I slightly prefer the one next door at the Aria Hotel. If you’ve never seen a Jean Philippe bakery, trust me, you would be amazed. It’s hard to imagine how spectacular the items on display are unless you see it with your own eyes.

One of my favorite items is the chocolate croissant, but there are dozens of items that are incredible. So, if you’re ever in Las Vegas and are anywhere near the Aria or the Bellagio, be sure to seek out the Jean Philippe Patisserie. Even if you don’t eat anything there just looking at the baked goods and desserts is a great experience.

JeanPhilippePatisserie
Jean Philippe Patisserie at the Aria Hotel
JeanPhilippePatisserie
Jean Philippe Patisserie
JeanPhilippePatisserie
Desserts made for Halloween
JeanPhilippePatisserie
More dessert made for Halloween
JeanPhilippePatisserie
Chocolate dragon

 

All Posts, Food, Travel

The Circo at the Bellagio Hotel in Vegas

During my most recent trip to Las Vegas I ate dinner at the Circo restaurant in the Bellagio Hotel. Overall I was very impressed. When I update my list of Top Ten Restaurants in Las Vegas, I’m pretty sure Circo will be on the list.

The evening began in the small bar near the entrance of the restaurant. There were three or four small tables and an intimate bar with about 10 tall chairs. The bartender was very friendly and suggested a Raspberry Fizz, one of their house specialties. It was very tasty and the next time I’m at Circo, I’ll probably order it again.

I was seated at a window overlooking so-called Lake Bellagio and had an excellent view of their world famous water fountain show. The waiter was friendly and helpful. For an appetizer, he suggested the lobster salad. The great evening got better when I found it was the best lobster salad I’ve ever had. My friend had a 20 vegetable soup that was fantastic too.

The waiter suggested one of Circo’s signature dishes, a lamb entree, but I decided on an elegant duck ravioli instead. My meal was excellent but be honest I think the duck ravioli would be better as a shared appetizer or shared plate with a group of people. My friend had a New York Steak that was excellent but it’s hard to distinguish between excellent steaks so I can’t really compare it to other steaks I’ve had in Vegas.

For dessert, I had “Zabaglione” – made with raspberry sorbet, champagne, and poached peach. It was perfect – not too sweet, not too heavy – just right. If you’re at or near the Bellagio, and want a good selection with items that are different, but not too different, I recommend that you check out Circo.

Circo at Bellagio, Las Vegas_1
FRANTOIANA-Tuscan twenty-vegetable and bean soup
Circo at Bellagio, Las Vegas_2
INSALATO D’ARAGOSTA-Chilled Maine lobster & avocado salad
Circo at Bellagio, Las Vegas
PANSOTTI-Braised duck filled ravioli
ZABAGLIONE dessertfrom Circo at Bellagio in Las Vegas
ZABAGLIONE-raspberry sorbet, champagne, and poached peach
All Posts, Food, Travel

Sinatra at Encore in Las Vegas

Out of my list for top ten restaurants in Las Vegas, Sinatra at Encore property is the BEST. I am a fan of Frank Sinatra music. I love the decoration and Sinatra’s music they play in the restaurant, not to mention the delicious Italian food, cocktail drinks, and great services they have.

For starter, I recommend Polpettina (housemade meatball and polenta fries). For entrée, I recommend Lasagna Bolognese (fresh pasta layered with veal, pork and beef). It’s served in a little hot metal pan. I always wondered how they keep the handle so cool while the pan itself was hot. I finally asked them on my most recent visit. It turned out that the lasagna is baked in the little pan in the oven and they cooled the handle with ice before they serve the dish. If you like rib eye, try Tagliata (bone-in rib eye grilled with cherry tomatoes, capers, and basil). I am usually a filet mignon person, but the Tagliata I had in Sinatra last time was so juicy and tender; I really like it.

If you drink cocktails, try Sinatra Smash; it’s mixed of whiskey and blackberries. It’s fruity and refreshing. If you have room for dessert, try the tiramisu. The tiramisu is made of mascarpone cream and espresso soaked ladyfinger biscuits, served in a martini glass. The texture is so smooth; it melts in the mouth with every bite.

I’ve been going to Sinatra every year since they opened (near the end of year 2007). I love the restaurant so much because of their food and the atmosphere. Frank Sinatra played an important part in the history of fabulous Vegas. What can be more classic than a restaurant tribute to his music and achievements!

Sina at Wynn, Las Vegas
Sinatra interior with special chandelier
Sinatra at Wynn, Las Vegas
Polpettina-house made meatball and polenta fries
Sinatra at Wynn, Las Vegas
Lasagna Bolognese-fresh pasta layered with veal, pork and beef
Sinatra at Wynn, Las Vegas
Agnello-lamb chops, goat cheese mashed potato, fagiolini
Sinatra at Wynn, Las Vegas
Tiramisu-mascarpone cream and espresso soaked ladyfinger biscuits