The Program Manager Restaurant Guide

A Slice Above, Cleveland, OH

2011-12-14T12:16:00.001-08:00

If you knew me, you’d know that it pains me not to have photographic evidence of a good meal. Especially when I know that I’ll be posting about it later here on the blog. Well, it happened. I ate some coma-inducing, stomach-filling pizza and got so caught up in things that I forgot to grab the camera. That’s really saying something.

Less than 3 miles from the Cleveland airport Crowne Plaza is A Slice Above Pizza.
Yup, the name really does say it all!

Tons of unique topping combinations, five types of crust to choose from, a few different sauces, homemade ice cream, and even “take and bake” pizzas (baking tray included). Holy cow, what more could you ask for from a tiny little take-out-or-delivery pizza joint?

I took a hint from a Yelp review by Lisa S. and chose one of the staff favorites, the “Honey Bee.” With a real honey base, pieces of ham, big bacon strips (not crumbles), sharp white cheddar, and mozzarella, this pizza was finger-lickin’ good.

[website] [yelp]

Meat so soft you could drink it…

2011-12-14T05:04:00.001-08:00

Maybe it was because I was halfway into my flight of beer samples, but when my server asked if everything tasted okay, I responded with, “Words cannot describe the happiness in my mouth right now.”

That right there should be more than enough to convince you carnivores out there to step into Champaign, IL’s Black Dog Smoke & Ale House. Not far from either Holiday Inn that we use (albeit a little farther from the Stoney Creek Inn), Black Dog is in downtown Champaign and is almost a literal hole in the wall; I drove past it twice on the first visit. It’s a barbeque joint in a small college town that can’t be missed.

Killer barbeque that melts in your mouth? Check.
Always packed with locals? Check.
To-die-for cornbread? Check.
Home-made infused tequilas? Check.
Rotating cast of seven craft brews on tap? Check.
A 7-sample flight of those tap beers for only $12? Check!

[facebook page] [yelp] [map]

Get to the Greek

2011-11-04T10:02:00.001-07:00

As with a few of the hotels we visit, the Holiday Inn & Suites in Columbia North has no in-house food options for lunch and the only restaurants within walking distance are Waffle House and some chain steakhouse. For your sake, I hope you have access to a car because there’s no hotel shuttle. We only drive to Columbia from Raleigh or Atlanta, each of which is over three and a half hours.

Anyway, inspired by my presenter’s craving for a Greek salad, I get on the trusty ol’ Yelp and find the closest Greek eatery is this place called Nick’s Gyros & Subs #3. I get a taxi from the hotel and start telling my driver where to go, but before I can even finish telling him, he pulls down a menu for this joint and exclaims, “Man! That is my PLACE!”

The place is less than two miles from the hotel and looks to be in what could easily pass for an old Wendy’s building. They specialize in Greek food, but serve a little of everything: Italian, seafood, burgers, rice & beans, salads, and whatever. All at very reasonable prices and with pretty quick service, so just keep the meter running.

Great food, many options, cheap, and an obvious favorite of the locals makes this an obvious choice. Oh, and they’re open until 2 a.m. every night except Friday and Saturday when they’re open ‘til 4 a.m.

[yelp]

These sandwiches will mess you up (in the best possible way)

2011-10-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

I'm sure that your first reaction on going to Cleveland is something along the lines of a very enthusiastic, wholehearted "Meh." Well, seriously... dare I say I love Cleveland, after today. Here is something that will absolutely blow your mind.

Here. This. Go here. Please just go here.

Melt Bar & Grilled has had some awesome media coverage, including Man vs. Food, NBC, USA Today, and so on and so on. I heard about it through my friend who is an executive chef at a fancy food establishment back in Seattle, and he gave me the "you just have to try it" speech. The concept is .. basically, gigantic gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. They've gained some notoriety for having a "tattoo club": anyone who gets a Melt tattoo gets a 25% discount off of their sandwiches/meals for life. There are over 200 people who have done this.

They have three separate locations in Lakewood, Cleveland Heights, and Independence. I went to the Lakewood restaurant, and it was really hip and pretty big -- there's a full service bar with great local beers, the waiters are super friendly, and there are a ton of both meaty/cheesy and vegetarian/vegan options. Their special sandwich for the month was a "meatloaf melt," and I went ahead and had the vegan version of that.

Seriously. Go here.

No joke, this sandwich will feed you for a week. A family of four. A pack of hungry, vicious, vegan tigers. A horde of relentless cheese and meat hungry gorillas. It was several thousand kinds of delicious. The bread was phenomenally crispy and fluffy, the meatloaf was pretty dense, and the sandwich itself was packed full of mashed potatoes. Mashed potatoes. In a sandwich. What is this, Christmas??

Their menu is huge, their beers are great, the portion sizes will put you in your place and the sandwiches are, for lack of a better word, one-of-the-best-things-I've-ever-eaten-oh-my-goodness. It will make you happy to be in Cleveland and itching to come back.

website yelp

Like a TGIFriday’s that didn’t sell out

2011-03-01T12:57:00.001-08:00

A foggy night in downtown Sacramento

A few of my aunts and uncles lived in Sacramento back in their youth and, when I asked for suggestions of places to go at night in Sacramento, one of them answered immediately with what turned out to be a great place to get a little local flavor, cheap booze, and some pretty tasty burgers. Fanny Ann’s Saloon is in Old Sac and is a 4-level building that was originally, you guessed it, a saloon. There’s kitsch everywhere and license plates nailed to the wall from all over. One Yelper wrote this apt description: “Imagine a universe where a TGI Friday's was actually cool and not a gimmick.”

A few interesting things before you go:

The place has four levels and the atmosphere on each is different, so check them all. The bar/food counter is on one, an arcade area on another, karaoke on another, and a level with more secluded booth dining.
The bartenders make STIFF drinks, so make sure you know how you’re getting back to the hotel safely. They also don’t keep tabs, so pay in cash or you can charge $5 to your credit card and get wooden coins to use as payment.
Be wary of the restrooms; choose your door wisely.
Good food and drink specials are listed on their website

[ official site ] – [ Yelp ]

Phoenix Pasties

2011-02-17T12:36:00.001-08:00

No, not the stripper kind. Get your mind out of the gutter.

Staying in Mesa, AZ and in need of some tasty treats? Look no further than the Cornish Pasty Company near Arizona State University.

This place is tucked away on the wrong side of an already too tiny strip mall and it’s about 3 feet too narrow inside, but once you’re there, it all somehow seems to fit. The place is filled with hipster kids, tatted from head to toe, but they cook some mean pasties. Just trust me on this one.

[ official website]
[ Yelp page ]

Yeee-haw in OKC!

2011-01-13T13:25:00.001-08:00

My first visit to Oklahoma City entailed staying at the Clarion Meridian Hotel near the airport and, of course, being thoroughly unimpressed by the facilities. Having driven a few hours from Texas and not looking forward to staying at that hotel, my presenter and I were pretty tired and willing to settle for one of the many chain restaurants in the area.

We drive down the road and pass this one place with a parking lot that was absolutely PACKED. Well, this is usually a good sign, so we stopped to check it out. Enter Cimarron Steakhouse:

We walk right in and I’m immediately cheered up because of the bombastically-incredible décor. I mean, just look at the place! It was huge and absolutely full of Western-themed souvenirs. Old timey wagons, Cowboys & Indians dioramas, animal pelts, and lots & lots of leather. Leather everywhere.

The food is decidedly mediocre, but don’t let that stop you from checking it out. If you’re in the mood for good ol’ fashioned Western food, this is the place because it is Cheap (with a capital ‘C’)! The meat was really good (chicken fried steak for me) and I would say that and the place’s atmosphere are really the best reasons to go there.

The salad was laughable (more lettuce with my dressing, please) and the rice was pretty bland, but when you look around and realize every other person in the joint is wearing denim (skirts, overalls, whatever), it’ll bring a smile to your face. At least it did for me.

[ Yelp review ]

Airport Sushi in Portland

2010-12-01T14:49:00.001-08:00

Flying out of Portland, OR with some time to kill? Don’t go through security just yet and check out the Beaches restaurant near the D gates.

Front dining area of Beaches restaurant during weekday Happy Hour

My cab driver used to work as a manager there and told me to check out some of their happy hour specials during my wait before flying out of Portland. The place was pretty full of business travelers ordering food and multiple drinks. $2 4-piece sushi rolls, $4 margaritas/cocktails/house wine, and other such deals. No to-go orders of course, but TSA probably wouldn’t like you trying to sneak some sushi rolls through the x-ray anyway.

For $2, these rolls were simplistic but very tasty

Artichokin’ in Manhattan

2010-12-01T14:39:00.001-08:00

I had my first taste of Artichoke Basille’s pizza after being introduced to it by Tyler B. on a one-night trip into NYC from Newark (because what the hell else were we supposed to do?). We were getting drunk in the East Village and looking for some late-night snacks. He had been to the area before and knew that it was a short walk, would be open, and was awesome good.

Three nights later, during my stayover in the city, I found myself heading back to the place. Their specialty spinach and artichoke pizza is amazing and they serve huge to-go cups of Bud Light for $5.50. There are other things to buy, but I’d say are hardly worth mentioning in comparison. Two visits in four days and two cases of burnt hard palate. Totally worth it, though.

The East Village location is really popular, being just a short walk down 14th from both Trader Joe’s and Union Square (where you can catch the L train to Brooklyn). They have one more location in Chelsea and are opening another in Greenwich Village soon.

[ official site ] [ Yelp page ]

Jonge-what’s?

2010-11-16T11:04:00.001-08:00

A Long Beach favorite for decades!

If you feel a little bored on the drive between Pasadena and Anaheim, I would suggest taking a detour through Long Beach. Sure, go ahead and do some sightseeing in the downtown/Seal Beach area because it’s nice, but head north towards the 405 and the airport when you get hungry.

I think this quote from LA Times food writer Russ Parsons sums up the place nicely:

“Its food will never be mistaken for cuisine — nothing is reimagined and garnishes are usually limited to a single sprig of parsley — but over the last 15 years, I would guess that my family has averaged at least two meals a week there, and if I was being completely honest, probably more. If you’re lucky, you have a place like it near you.” [ link ]

Pronounced something like “young ward’s,” I was introduced to Jongewaard’s by a presenter who grew up in the Long Beach area and has been a frequenter of the restaurant for the last 50+ years (she always gets the burger special with a slice of lemon cream pie). If that doesn’t convince you, I don’t know what will.

Whatever appeals to you on the menu (to-die-for chicken pot pie), please make sure to get some of their baked goods for desert. Cake, pie, cookies, cinnamon buns, and on and on and on!

A Gobblerito?

2010-11-15T21:07:00.000-08:00

That’s right, folks: a Gobblerito!

( Fire not included )

Inside the Days Inn hotel in State College, PA there lives a Mexican/American fusion restaurant called Mad Mex. They serve burritos the size of your head. Yes, the SIZE OF YOUR FREAKIN’ HEAD!

( As unappealing as this may look, it was a fantastic burrito the size of my melon )

I opted for the seasonal specialty burrito, which was basically a Thanksgiving feast wrapped in a tortilla. Absolutely delicious, especially in mid-November! Decent prices, good food, and apparently an enjoyable selection of beer all make Mad Mex worthy of your time. Also, Amber has been to the one in Columbus a bunch and has equally good things to say.

[ website ]

Sacramen-thai

2010-11-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, corny title, I know. Simply put, Bangkok @ 12 in Sacramento, CA is an awesome Thai food restuarant just two blocks away from The Sterling Hotel.

Avocado curry, Bangkok @ 12

I tried the Avocado Curry with chicken and was pleasantly surprised. Many of the reviewers on Yelp! [ Yelp! page ] agreed that their curry is great and I'd have to join their ranks. As you can see from the picture, their portion sizes are more suited for 2-3 people, but priced for one. The hotel has a fridge and microwave guests can use, so get the leftovers to-go. $6.95 lunch specials and $2 beers/wine for Happy Hour make this a great option for you or your participants during lunch.

Manchester's Only Brewery

2010-10-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

While it doesn't seem like anything to brag about, Milly's Tavern [ link ], next to the UNh-Manchester campus, is Manch-Vegas' only brewery and does a damn good job at it.

Find some extra time in the evening and head on down to happy hour from 4-7pm each night for $1.50 draft beers and half price appetizers. Happen to be there on a Tuesday? Skip Happy Hour and catch their 'Beat the Clock' specials after 7pm where beers start at $0.50 each and go up in price $0.50 each half hour (or hour?). Apparently the place turns into a dance club at night, too.

The beer is excellent, the appetizers are also great (what fried food doesn't go well with beer?), so if you decide to skip Unwine'd head on down, but please don't order a salad; I quickly learned the errors of my ways with that one.

Pit Stop Munchies

2010-10-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

Keene, NH is a small college town that seems to have a lot to offer a bored and hungry Program Manager on the road. Small shops and theaters, as well as independent restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops line the streets of downtown.

Keene's location, nearly half way between Albany and Manchester, make it a perfect pit stop option before continuing your multi-hour drive. Tell your Garmin to take Route 9 through the countryside instead of the interstate because it's worth the detour if the weather's nice!

Port Authority Cafe - Keene, NH

One of the many eateries near Main Street is the Port Authority Cafe. [ Yelp! page ] Pretty typical college town menu: burgers, sandwiches, and beer, but the food is all made from scratch and includes some vegan options as well. What caught my attention were the multiple reviews raving about their veggie burger. I had to try it.

Veggie burger w/ sweet potato fries@ Port Authority Cafe

I'd certainly say I wasn't disappointed. It was so hearty that I finished the fries and just half the burger, taking the second half to-go. The shop is super small; it takes up just the corner of the building and the seating uses less than half of that space (in warmer months, outside seating must be available). I'd certainly stop by again if I found myself in the area.

Obligatory tourist picture @ Bennington Battle Monument

Along the drive you'll pass through Bennington, VT. You should stop by the Bennington Battle Monument [ website ]. At over 300 feet tall, this monument was built to commemorate an American (or future-American) victory in 1777 that would prove to be a turning point in the Revolutionary War. Excuse the lame tourist picture.

Armory Square, Syracuse, NY

2010-05-26T11:31:00.001-07:00

Just a fast second post about Syracuse, NY. If you're in the area with a rental car, it's probably worth your time to check out the dining/drinking options downtown in Armory Square [ link ]. It's a few blocks long and downtown, on a weekday evening, is totally dead, so parking is a breeze.

Armory Square was hopping, however, with people ranging from the college-aged crowd to those New Yorkers with gray hair and college kids of their own. This particular Spring night, everyone was out and about in the Square just enjoying the warm air with plenty of beer at the many streetside restaurants.

I ended up at the Blue Tusk Pub and Wine Bar [ official site ], tasting their mystery draught beer and their Tuesday night special, some sort of pesto chicken and mushroom sandwich on some pretty good bread. $8 well spent. Just check it out for yourself if the weather's nice.

Beer is food, right?

2010-05-25T15:54:00.000-07:00

Awhile back I had some time to kill in the Syracuse, NY area and asked for some advice from family in the area. They recommended finding a good local brewery to pass the time, so I did.

Enter: Middle Ages Brewing Company [ more info ]. Like the sign says, it's the home to handcrafted fine ales not too far away from downtown Syracuse. M-F their shop and tasting room are open until 6pm, so hopefully you've got a car and not a long drive between seminar cities.

This shot is from the entryway to the shop and tasting room. How fitting, right? The owners are there every day to give out free samples of their rotating selection of beers, including some seasonal brews as well. You can fill up a growler, buy a case, or even piece together your own custom six-pack (warm or cold bottles available).

Fair prices and tasty beer, what more could you ask for? My faves are the Swallow Wit and the Apricot Ale, so far. The Wizard's Winter Ale isn't too shabby either.

One of the best reasons to stop by the brewing company is because the Syracuse location of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que (the original!) is something like five minutes away. This location also has a few Middle Ages beers on tap and in the bottle, so drink up.

When I first discovered the proximity of these two businesses, how could I deny myself the chance to check off the Syracuse BBQ off my list?

Manhattan? Check.
Rochester? Check.
Syracuse? Check.

Gettin Fresh in Toronto

2010-05-12T23:00:00.000-07:00

Yet another wicked find from the WestJet magazine. Fresh has three locations in Toronto, and I loved this place so much that I bought the cookbook. They have noodle bowls, salads, fresh juices, and excellent desserts. I got the prix fix menu, which includes a juice of your choice, an appetizer, a main dish and a dessert. I had the white bean and avocado dosas, the "dolphin" smoothie, a kick butt noodle concoction that I forget the name of, and a cashew cookie for dessert. All were incredibly delectible. An added bonus: you can bring your own container for a take-away juice fix.

If you find yourself with some time in the evening in Toronto, pull yourself away from Brampton and get your booty downtown. I visited the one of Spadina avenue, which has the added bonus of being in a super cool neighborhood. Look both ways because there are bikes everywhere, as well as mass transit and lots and lots of people out and a-boot. If I hadn't got there on the late side, I probably would have walked away with several fetching outfits and possibly a new pair of shoes so be forewarned.

Padmanadi Vegetarian Restaurant

2010-05-12T22:53:00.000-07:00

Padmanadi is impossible to pronounce, and located way the heck down in what I presume to be Chinatown. No matter. This is the first time I have ever seen a restaurant posted on yelp that exclusively had 5 stars. They've earned it. The menu is entirely vegan, but please don't let yourself beleive that means lacking in taste. I have never in my life tasted a better, more full bodied coconut curry. Overwhelmed with curiosity, I dove into my fake mutton curry with coconut rice and ordered the roti for our appetizer.

The staff were incredibly pleasant and helpful, the tea was delicious, my food was gorgeous and oh so tasty, and we got to sing an asian-style happy birthday to one of the other patrons. If I lived in Edmonton, this is where I would want to be on my birthday and christmas and passover and dawali too. My presenter announced it was the best restaurant ever in her seminar the next day, so don't be surprised if its not flooded with middle aged, slightly overweight teacher ladies.

Canada's answer to Whole Foods

2010-05-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

While in Edmonton, I made my way up to Planet Organic Market. This place has the same flavor as a Whole Foods, complete with lovely prepared foods section. Prices are about the same as home, but as every program manager knows, fresh fruits and veggies are just about the greatest thing you can find whilst far far from home.

Cow town's veggie little paradise

2010-05-12T22:38:00.000-07:00

Sweet sweet beans and (tempeh) bacon! I think its safe to say that after this job is over (in about 2 weeks thank GOD) I will never again have reason to visit Calgary. Indeed, a town best known for its faux space needle and a yearly event called the stampede was not really of interest for me.

Until I found the Coup. This incredible little restaurant in the trendy 17th avenue neighborhood will require a car to get to (esp if you are staying at the Port of Call Best Western), but just stick it on the central bill and be done with it. Absolutely worth the shabby explanations if you are even asked to explain yourself.

The Coup is a very fine vegetarian and vegan restaurant that I learned about through the WestJet magazine. They have everything you could want, from intensely flavorful appetizers, big bold dark-green salads, and main dishes that leave you absolutely satiated and yet still curious enough to try dessert. I ordered the balsamic vinegar marinaded eggplant dip with house-made lavash and whole wheat focaccia bread. This sent me to a very happy orbit and i felt compelled to finish the entire HUGE bowl and all the dippers. For my main, I had a truffle cream and portobello mushroom pasta dish and a nice local microbrew. With absolutely no room to spare, I decided to go for dessert. Their frangelico chocolate mousse with hazelnuts was effing crazyshit delicous. To sum up, just GO. You won't be disappointed.

Appleton

2010-05-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

Nakashima is a sushi and hibachi place who's looks are deceiving from the outside. Once inside there is samurai decor, and a back sushi room that gives off the illusion that you are going to be sitting cross legged on the floor, but this is not the case. The sushi is more on the commercial side, but delicious none the less. An extra bonus to this place is the toilets, with heated seats and a bode option, they make you feel like you are actually in Japan if only for a quick second.

Yet Another Bar in Bethlehem

2010-04-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

Those Lehigh University students sure do love their beer...this is the second good pub to make an appearance on the food blog from Bethlehem, PA.

Machs Gute Pub and Grille is not too far from either the Comfort Suites or the Best Western there in town, so it's a good choice if you're looking for typical pub fare (really tasty chicken cheese steak sandwiches) at reasonable prices. Decide beforehand how you're getting home because the daily beer specials are cheap, including the daily $2 pints. Thursdays are $0.35 wings and $2 draught beers (forgot which ones), too!

It may be a cheap college bar, but with recent renovations, this place now has a fairly modern look to it and, during my dinnertime visit, was very clean and quiet. Everyone in the bar (all five of us) were watching Jeopardy on the big flatscreen TVs above the bar, hah!

[ more info ] [ facebook page ]

Pizza, beer, and green thinking

2010-04-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

Scattered across Wisconsin, the Glass Nickel Pizza Company has some incredibly tasty pizza as well some pretty inventive sauce/topping combinations. They have at least seven different locations, which include two in Madison and one in Milwaukee, so you've got multiple opportunities to eat and drink there.

To the left was my 10" small pizza with 1/2 chicken alfredo and 1/2 their 'famous' fetalicious (many reviews on Yelp mention this one). 'Twas mighty delicious with very fresh toppings, the ability to do half-and-half on even a small pizza (including sauces, which most places won't do), and some mighty good fresh-minced garlic on the alfredo half.

It may have been one of the many microbrews they have on tap talking, but I very much enjoyed my pizza at the Madison East (Atwood Ave.) location. It was some of the best pizza I've had in recent times, so I'd suggest swinging by if you've got time; heck, it's even a few minutes' drive from the capitol building!

Also, from the "Growing Green" section of their website, it looks like they're putting in some decent effort into changing their operations to be a little more sustainable and energy-efficient. They've got my vote.

Midland Munchies

2010-04-19T18:39:00.000-07:00

Formerly a bank and then a steakhouse, Chug N' Chew is right across the street from the Valley Plaza and the Best Western hotel in Midland. Apparently open for business since June, 2009, this place stands up to the reputation its sign out front creates: "good food, huge portions, low price."

The main lobby has a futon facing a large flat-screen TV next to an old-school arcade machine, not to mention the still-installed vault door from the building's previous purpose as a bank. The decor is an amalgamation of Mexican, Halloween, midwest Americana, and other random kitsch.

The food is great, though, and cheap! I had the Southwestern Burger combo with waffle fries (an extra $0.50) that came out to less than $8 after tax, holy cow. The bun and fries were both delicious and were both crispy to perfection. The burger itself was a half-pound patty with cheese, pico de gallo, red onions, and slices of avocado; a unique take on the American classic.

If you're passing through Midland, think about stopping by this joint for a great bite to eat at an incredibly low price. My only qualm is that they don't serve alcohol; only a nice cold brew would've made this experience any better.

Marie Catrib's Restaurant and Bakery

2010-03-11T18:51:00.001-08:00

Dear Marie Catrib,

Please adopt me and cook for me every day. I will move to Grand Rapids if necessary. I can't recall ever eating a more delicious meal, possibly ever. (I may be a little stupefied by your luscious chocolate pudding with fabulously dense whip cream and a massive succulent strawberry bigger than my spoon). I have been eating my way through the entire USA one small podunk town at a time, but I can die a happy and slightly fatter woman now that I have rolled through your excellent restaurant. Thank you for speading the love of excellent, creative, wholesome cuisine to all who seek it.

We Love You! Pass it on....

I have been rather lax on adding my food finds to this blog due to general laziness, but I could not WAIT to add Marie Catrib's to the list, lest one more hungry program manager pass through this northerly city without sampling the delights of this exquisite establishment. Marie brings a creative touch to classic american fare, as well as a new take on Lebanese traditional favorites. This place is so much more than soup, salad, sandwiches and Lebanese food. Everything I saw was uber fresh and they try to make the most out of local, organic, and seasonal vegetables as well as choice organic, antibiotic-free meats and "ethically harvested" fish. You can get one awesome fair trade coffee here too, and they are renowned for their brunch.

I stuffed my face and ordered the special, which was a Veggie Pot Pie with soup or salad (I wisely chose the Moroccan Quinoa soup...mmmm). To this excellent line-up, I added a side of hummous with their signature crispy sesame crackers for dipping. And even though I was bursting at the seams and they were closing down the restaurant and I was maybe possibly the only person left, when my charming waitress Shea smiled sweetly and asked, "Dessert?" I was powerless to say no. Oh, Chocolate pudding, I will dream of thee and thy silky smooth texture tonight and hopefully every night.

Everything. Was. AMAZING! I am contemplating returning for lunch tomorrow, but I think I will still have serious leftovers to devour. Maybe for the airport...?

Marie Catrib's is located at 1001 Lake Drive Southeast, Grand Rapids, MI

Coupon Clipper: First Attempt

2010-03-04T15:22:00.000-08:00

Talking with Matt D. one early Sunday morning waiting for the great flight from SEA to PHL, I realized that, because we all go to the same locations time and time again, there may be some use in collecting coupons from various restaurants around the country. I have no idea if this will work in actuality, but the full-size version of the following image should be printable to a realistic size from any hotel business center; it's 3.5" wide at 300 pixels per inch. If you try it, leave a comment letting us know how it goes.

A Program Developer's Take on Things (pg 2 of 5)

2010-03-03T09:30:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: Former BER program developer, Sandy Anderson, has kindly provided her list of favorite restaurants around the country and the following descriptions are verbatim from her notes with the addition of formatting and hyperlinks by myself. Enjoy!

Sandy's Restaurant Reviews - Updated Version for Fall 2000 (continued)

Cincinnati, OH

You might enjoy Champs in the Hyatt-Saks Square (map). Informal yet tasty. Other options include Sturkeys (map, now an Encore Bistro), Cafe Cin-Cin in the Crowne Plaza (closed) and Boca (map) - all eclectic menus.

Cleveland, OH

Harry Corvairs (closed) serves modern American cuisine. Also, you might try Moxie (map), an American bistro, or Lola (map).

Columbus, OH

I've not tried it, but Rigsbys Kitchen (map) comes highly recommended, so the next time I'm in Columbus I'll have to try it.

Dallas, TX

If you want to splurge, there's The Mansion on Turtle Creek (map) which is wonderful. If you want more reasonably priced and like Mexican, try Uncle Julios (map) near the Galleria.

Denver, CO

Z Brasserie (closed?) is a fun place in the heart of downtown. Situated in a former bank, the restaurant offers up a lively atmosphere with a stellar menu. Selections lean toward a New American bent, but you can find a wide variety of dishes to tempt your palate. The formal restaurant at the Brown Palace Hotel (map) is yet another classic on the Denver restaurant scene. The Beef Wellington is well worth the wait, especially as your server slices it tableside. A very formal atmosphere with first class service.

Detroit, MI

Some recommendations include French Asian at Tribute (map) in Farmington Hills and Duet (map) for French American.

Honolulu, HI

My two favorite places are A Pacific Cafe (map) for seafood and Alan Wong's (map) for the best Ahi I've ever eaten. Another to add to the list is Yanagi Sushi (map).

Indianapolis, IN

If you like Italian, try Benvenuti's (location unknown). I enjoyed it. The California Cafe (closed) also serves an eclectic menu with fresh seafood each day.

A Program Developer's Take on Things (pg 1 of 5)

2010-03-03T08:20:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: Former BER program developer, Sandy Anderson, has kindly provided her list of favorite restaurants around the country and the following descriptions are verbatim from her notes with the addition of formatting and hyperlinks by myself. Enjoy!

Sandy's Restaurant Reviews - Updated Version for Fall 2000

I always enjoy the opportunity to try out innovative, fresh cooking (or maybe decadent, wonderful cooking). So I thought I'd pass along some of my favorites - if you have favorites, I hope you'll let me know, and I'll add to the list.

Albuquerque (Santa Fe), NM

My favorite is the Coyote Cafe (map) in Santa Fe - incredible southwestern food and well worth a trip to Santa Fe. They also sell some of the spices and sauces in their gift shop.

Alexandria, VA

Try Le Gaulois (map) for great country French cooking. It's in Old Town on King Street - great fireplace for a cold winter day.

Anaheim, CA

If you're int he mood for Italian, consider Pavia in the Anaheim Hilton (map). The prawns were incredible. Tutto Mare (map) in Newport Beach offers upscale contemporary dining at reasonable prices. They always feature a wide assortment of fresh seafood and shellfish. You can eat to your heart's content and then shop until your plastic melts at Fashion Island (map) right next door. The sushi restaurant at the Disneyland Hotel (map) has excellent sashimi and roll assortments created by a talented crew from the Land of the Rising Sun using only the freshest ingredients. Try the Ahi roll or California Roll - they're outstanding.

Atlanta, GA

Buckhead has a number of restaurants that are outstanding, but one of my favorites is Cafe Tutu Tango (map), which serves incredible tapas. They also have one in Orlando.

Boston, MA

If you like seafood, try Legal Sea Foods (map). There are several of them in the Boston area.

Chicago, IL

The list is unending, but some of my favorites are Cafe Spiaggia (map) near the Drake Hotel (map) serving Italian, the Cape Cod Room in the Drake Hotel with incredible seafood soups and chowders, Prairie in the Hyatt on Printers Row (map) where I had a portabello salad, and Cafe La Cave (map) near the airport for wonderful seafood and/or Italian food. A new favorite is Maggiano's (map) for Italian food - the portions are oversized so plan on sharing or eating a lot - there are multiple locations, including downtown, Oak Brook, Schaumberg, and Arlington Heights.

Sticky Icky

2010-03-01T10:14:00.000-08:00

On a recommendation from a recent presenter (and fellow sushi lover), I'm posting about an awesome-looking sushi stop with locations in both Richmond, VA and Washington, D.C. I've not yet been to either city to experience this small, but independently-owned, chain, but from the looks of their web presence, they must be awesome!

Geek out: They've got at least two different websites with great design/coding, social media interaction all over the place (on-location photos, Twitter, blog, etc...), and even a list of their go-to websites (must be a work in progress with only two links right now)! Any place this "hip" to the latest web and marketing trends (and that does it well!) gets a huge thumbs up from me; way to go, Sticky Rice.

Looks like these locations are all pretty happenin', with live DJs, alcohol sales, and all sorts of other cool things, but some reviews online average out to 3/5 stars. Looks like there's good sushi, but it may not be a great idea to go during a rush or later in the evenings when the bar gets crowded with college students.

[ Website #1 ]
[ Website #2 ]
[ Google Map ]
[ Yelp ]

P.S. Did I mention one of their specialties is tater tots? Craziness.

Chain Gang #3

2010-02-11T20:18:00.000-08:00

Because of what some have started to call "Stormageddon" here in the northeastern US this February, I have found myself stuck at the Hampton Inn next to the Philadelphia airport for two days to end out this week. The hotel has no restaurant, of course, and the only thing within walking distance is the Ruby Tuesday next door.

Now, I haven't been to a Ruby Tuesday restaurant in a while and may have just missed the memo about their improved menu, but I'm guessing, instead, the cooks at this location must have just been on-the-ball today. There wasn't a shift change between my lunch and dinner visits, so I couldn't tell if that was a factor. For lunch, I had a turkey and avocado sandwich on a delicious pretzel bun. The chunk of turkey they gave me was grilled to perfection with some amazingly scrumptious seasoning. The warm avocado topped it off for a very surprising experience.

Image courtesy RubyTuesday.com

Dinner started out with a Sam Adams seasonal ale, which just so happened to go very well with the Chicken Fresco entree.

Chicken Fresco
A fresh, all-natural grilled chicken breast topped with vine-ripened tomatoes, lemon-butter sauce, and a splash of balsamic vinaigrette. With steamed broccoli and white cheddar mashed potatoes.

The chicken was grilled right on the outside and incredibly moist on the inside, the balsamic vinaigrette had that certain sharp taste that seemed to mix perfectly with the beer, the steamed broccoli couldn't have been cooked better, and the mashed potatoes...what I would give to have some more of those mashed potatoes!! Absolutely brilliant, all around.

If you find yourself in the area, especially if you're snowed in with nowhere better to go, I hope you get a chance to experience this food at its best.

P.S. Skip dessert; my Blondie for 1 came with partially-melted ice cream and a slice of brownie cake that was burnt on the inside from whatever microwave they used to heat it with.

A Panda Wearing a Sombrero

2010-02-05T14:23:00.000-08:00

Have you finally been sent somewhere in the southern US (sun, at last!)? Do you happen to be in Phoenix and also happen to be staying at the Crowne Plaza on West Peoria Avenue? Good, you're in for a treat.

Trusty ol' Yelp.com led me to find a great little dive with Asian/Mexican fusion food called Chino Bandido. They have two locations in the greater Phoenix area and one happens to be only three or four miles from that Crowne Plaza, so you may be able to get the hotel shuttle to drive you, but I personally had a friend pick me up at the hotel, so I can't be certain. The restaurant is a dingy little place in an even sketchier part of town (there were a few police helicopters with spotlights doing fly-overs just down the street), but the quality of food, on my visit, far surpassed the appearance of the shop.

You walk in and, if it's your first time at the place, the staff walks you through a sampling of six menu items before showing you how to order. I followed the advice of quite a few Yelpers and ordered the Jade Red Chicken; I was not disappointed! The statue of a panda in the next room, wearing a sombrero, is also not to be missed (it's better when you walk in and there are three small kids crawling all over it!).

Also featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives," hosted by Guy Fieri, episode DV0305 titled A World of Flavors.

[ Google map ]
[ Yelp review ]
[ website ]

Boise Bento

2010-02-03T11:57:00.000-08:00

Who knew downtown Boise was so adorable? If you're staying at the Owyhee Plaza and want some decent Asian food, wander over a couple blocks and go to Zen Bento (10th and Main). Matt suggested this one to me, and it was a winner! While it's not really bento boxes, its pretty tasty. Veggies and your choice of protein (I chose tofu today) over rice and your choice of sauce over all of it. They also have sushi and gigantic cookies (it was hard to restrain myself). Best of all, it's all under $10!

Good Greek in NY

2010-01-24T23:23:00.000-08:00

If you're staying in downtown Buffalo, NY near the convention center (the Hyatt Regency, for me), check out this great Greek restaurant, Taki's, that is a short one- to two-minute walk around the corner. They've got pretty inexpensive lunch specials and, considering I was at the convention center, which has no in-house restaurant, this was an obvious choice based on local advice.

When you're there, check out the cheeky and self-promoting posters stuck to the walls (see above). That, and can you REALLY say no to the chocolate cookies that are as big as your face? I couldn't.

[ Google Maps ]

[ A much better review ]
[ Yelp page ]

Pit-Stop Through Canada

2010-01-20T12:26:00.000-08:00

Back in December 2009, during my last week out before our glorious multi-week winter vacation, I found myself north of the border with an appetite. I in Toronto, heading south, and another program manager in Hamilton, heading north, decided we should meet up with our presenters for an early dinner somewhere in between. Not exactly a "same-city" day, but close enough.

Not being all too experienced with Canadian eateries (eh?), Yelp once again came to the rescue by leading us to a small industrial town called Oakville that is just about smack dab in the middle of our two destinations for the evening. Stoney's Bread Company is a great local restaurant that serves much more than just bread. Think of it as an upscale, independent version of Panera...I guess. Fantastic salmon sandwiches, caesar salads, handmade pizzas, and other such things. Slightly more pricey than my previous comparison to Panera, but certainly worth the experience and worth a break from driving the snowy roads of Ontario between Toronto and Hamilton.

Locally-made desserts are a must for the to-go box, as well!

[ Yelp page ]
[ Google Map ]

Gastropub near Harrisburg

2010-01-14T10:58:00.000-08:00

Staying at the Hotel Carlisle near Harrisburg? Craving something a little more Continental? Head down the road about 5 miles to Cafe Bruge. My presenter and I had amazing Belgian beer, super tasty french fries, and amazingly tantalizing mussels cooked in butter and white wine... YUM. They have a decent menu of salads and burgers as well as the typically French/Belgian fare. It's a little on the pricier side (the 2lbs of mussels and giant cone of fries were $19, and we each had a green salad at $5, plus the beers at $7...), but it's very much worth it for a nice night out when you're in a truck-stop hotel.

Petra's Cafe in Fayetteville, AR

2010-01-13T11:51:00.001-08:00

Okay so no pictures since I was super hungry and had about 20 minutes to get in, scarf down some food, and get out! This little tiny place called Petra's Cafe on East Center Street in Fayetteville (close to University of Arkansas) is fantastic! I stayed just a block or 2 away at the Cosmopolitan Hotel (a real fixer-upper) and was walking around on my lunch break and found this cute little cafe! They have pictures of Jordan all over and apparently the owner is from Jordan. Anyway, I went in and ordered a platter with falafel, hummous, pita and this interesting stuff called foule (pronounced "fool"). Super good! It's this tangy bean dip with garlic, onions and tomatoes that is incredible! I was super stuffed after this protein-rich meal and I wish I was here tomorrow to eat there again! It's only open for lunch, but you have to check it out! It cheap too and it's like eating in someone's living room since the other side of the room has an oven and stove and refrigerator. Who knew there was fabulous middle-eastern cuisine in Fayetteville??

And just as an added bonus, if you're in for a home-made type burger there's a place called Hugo's that has great burgers across the street from the hotel!

Airport Dining, ATL

2010-01-07T10:05:00.000-08:00

Stranded in Atlanta? Hungry? Near the C terminal?
Try Pashals Southern Restaurant at the C centerpoint (near gate C30). I had an hour at dinnertime in ATL yesterday, and after asking what we could get and eat in 20 minutes, our server suggested the veggie platter... your choice of 4 sides and cornbread muffins for $10. It was great southern comfort food--black eye peas, collards, mashed potatoes and gravy... YUM. If I'm back there for longer, I might have to head back to tried their fried chicken or smothered meatloaf.

I wrapped up a cornbread muffin in my napkin as we had to run to our gate, and let me just say, anything that results in a see-through napkin after less than 3 minutes is good southern cookin'.

Anyone else have a decent airport food find lately?

Google Maps Compendium of Food Blog entries

2009-12-14T08:40:00.000-08:00

Dear fellow PM's,

Please take advantage of the Google Map I have created to go along with this here food blog. This is a public map, can be accessed from internet-enabled smartphones, and can be opened up to contributions from any one of you. If anyone is interested, I can send out some invites and put you on the editors' list. The map has interesting restaurants as well as airports and hotels that we frequent.

Have at it [ here ]!

Fo Sho go to Burrito Joes...

2009-12-11T08:06:00.001-08:00

Like the title for the post? I should be in marketing....
In Albany, NY, down a small alley right off of Pearl St., you wouldn't even notice a tiny restaurant known for its cheap, tasty burritos. See the small sign in the middle of the alley picture? Yeah, that is Burrito Joes. The guy behind the counter is none other than Joe the owner, and he recommended the BBQ chicken burrito. It was great. It came along with chips which were completely unnecessary because the burrito was enough. The great thing about Burrito Joes is that it is cheap. My burrito would have originally cost me only four bucks, but with the extras it was more like six. When I ate there, I was staying at the Hampton Inn in downtown Albany,NY, and the restaurant is no more than 2 to 3 blocks from the hotel. Pearl St. is a great area of downtown to get something to eat, but I recommend Burrito Joes for the price, distance, and taste. Enjoy suckas.

Breakfast Solution!

2009-12-09T09:02:00.000-08:00

Hi Y'all! (I've been spending too much time in the south this week...)

I've managed to write out a guide to cooking non-instant oatmeal in a coffee pot on my personal blog. I highly recommend this method as it has become my new favorite morning ritual. Lately I haven't been going out to eat as much, but I think this is a wonderful solution to the breakfast/saving money problem that plagues all of us. If you try it out, let me know if it works for you!

Once a Funeral Parlor, Now a Bar

2009-11-28T19:13:00.000-08:00

I've got no photo for this place, except one of the menu, so I'll pass on that. When in Springfield, IL and walking around down near the capitol building, make sure to swing in to Norb Andy's Tabarin (closest guess on translation is "tavern," but I have no idea which language). Monday night $5 martinis are super strong (try the caramel apple martini; girls at the bar said it was their absolute fave). I only found this place because my presenter had to pee, so we stopped in the only place that seemed open on a Monday night. Cool partially-underground bar with an Irish/nautical theme. Opened under new ownership just about a month ago, so stop in and buy some beer or other beverage.

Jeremy, the owner, is super nice and is a skilled bartender. Tell him you work with Josh, the guy from Gainesville, Florida, as in "The Gainesville Murders." He may remember the conversation.

[website] [map]

Don't Get Sand in Your Wine

2009-11-28T18:50:00.001-08:00

Beachfront Italian cuisine. Sirena Ristorante.

Tucked away next to a group of high-priced condominiums above shops and other restaurants, this place is a little expensive for our general price range, but not abnormally expensive for upper class beachfront restaurants. Anyway, the food is really delightful and, on a Wednesday evening, the service was quick and friendly.

The mushroom ravioli was yummy and the view out onto the cold New Jersey shore was really peaceful after what had been a somewhat hectic day. When at the Holiday Inn in Long Branch, NJ (seminar hosted at Monmouth University), this place is only a short 5-10 minute drive away. Beware of the crazy left/u-turn setups in this small town; you've got to use arterial "exit ramps" in advance for either of the afore-mentioned turns. It's insane and will probably also drive you that way.

[website][map]

Books, Books, Everywhere Books!

2009-11-28T18:11:00.000-08:00

I have never been anywhere as uniquely- and well-decorated! Found out about Library ² from the front desk staff at the Hampton Inn in Voorhees/Cherry Hill, NJ and was surprised, when I got there, at their nonchalant attitude when telling me about it. This place has the epitome of a unique fine dining experience. The walls, shelves, and even parts of the ceiling/support beams are covered in books. Strange, however, for a place that is lit mostly by candlelight. Fine art, fine literature, and fine decor really make this place special, in my opinion.

Unassuming from the outside, Library ² is an upscale restaurant with a steakhouse theme. Looking at the partial menu above, you can see that many of the entrees at this place focus on meat and seafoods, but don't give up, my little veggies, the salad bar that is included in each entree price is to die for! About $12 on its own, the salad bar is worth every penny, even without a tender beef or chicken main dish. Super fresh ingredients, fresh baked breads and rolls; and rolls of cheese with knives to cut your own servings...this thing has it all.

It's a bit pricey to visit this place, but I would suggest going at LEAST once in your time with BER. I plan to return and will, most likely, just get the salad bar and fill up on that alone. Just trust me on this place.

[website] [map]

Bright Beacon of Bethlehem

2009-11-28T17:55:00.001-08:00

Pizza, a staple of any meal, is one of your choices for a quick, cheap, meal while out on your lunch break in Bethlehem, PA. Ask any of the hotel staff or the locals and they'll tell you: Lehigh Pizza's the best in town. Luckily for us, it's also a very short walk from the Comfort Suites.

Sizable slices and fair prices can't really compare to the one thing I really love about their pizza; the relatively unique toppings choices and combinations. The veggie slice is my favorite so far, but there are lots to choose from. Also, they serve beer, but I wouldn't recommend that during a lunch break, haha!

[website] [map]

Ty Cobb's Cousin Made a Salad

2009-11-28T17:42:00.000-08:00

I don't remember it being presented as such, but the in-house restaurant at the Hampton Inn near the airport in Spokane, WA has quite a delightful Cobb salad, pictured at right. Not only was it delicious and hand-made with really fresh ingredients, but it was not priced outrageously either. From what some of the participants said, most everything on the menu was served fresh and tasty, so it's worth checking it out, especially since you'll likely be at the hotel without a rental car and there are no options within a short walking distance.

Also, the complimentary food area (not just breakfast) is available to hotel guests 24/7. After main meal hours, the cereal, fruit, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and etc... are still out and available to grab. Definitely worth a check to replenish your instant oatmeal/fruit stash in your luggage.

Southern Cookin' in Detroit

2009-11-18T08:26:00.000-08:00

Yes, once again, I said Detroit.

Embassy Suites Southfield has become a bit of a home away from home for me, and the last time I was here, a participant came back raving about this amazing southern comfort food restaurant, Beans and Cornbread. With Rachel in town for a same city, we went to check it out. It's about a mile from the hotel on Northwestern Hwy, but it's tucked in a strip mall, so watch out for it or you'll miss it. U-turn and come back if you have to, it's a definite MUST EAT.

These truly tasty little morsels are sweet potato muffins. Rachel and I ate as many of these as our waitress would bring us (and she was definitely not stingy!). They also serve piping hot cornbread which is very tasty as well. But they were only the appetizer...

The entree options were mostly fried, but all looked amazing. I ended up with pork chops, "seasoned" (that means fried) and smothered in red eye gravy. Rachel had the roasted chicken, which was moist and amazing (and one of the not fried options!). We each chose 2 sides for our meals (you can also get them with 3 sides, or a vege plate of 3 sides, which I would definitely recommend!). The sides you see are: collard greens (the best I've had in a looooong time), country corn, mac'n'cheese (melt your brain good), and red beans and rice (again, eye-bugging amazing). See the pattern here? We have leftovers for lunch even.

Even if you're not in Southfield, this place is definitely worth going to. It makes everything about being in Detroit so much better!

Traditional Lobster Bibs (and rolls) at Dimillos

2009-11-17T10:32:00.000-08:00

My last trip to Portland, ME pulled me away from Street & Co as my presenters wanted a real, full lobster-bib experience. So we went to Dimillos Floating Restaurant. A tourist trap for sure, but a tasty one. If you're determined to do lobster, this is a good place. Both of my presenters went for the full meal deal-- $38 for a 1 1/8 lb lobster, stack of maine clams, potato, vegetable, as well as chowder, salad, drink and blueberry cobbler. If that is what you want, this is an amazing deal. You won't pack any of it to eat the next day, it's all seafood, but damn if you won't still be full the next day! Just avoid the haddock chowder... it was mostly butter.

I went for their special lobster month special lobster roll and it was beyond divine (even if in the bad lighting it looks a bit disgusting). If you're more in the $13 range, that is definitely what you should get to get the most lobster without the bib.

Penn State Eatery

2009-11-15T20:12:00.000-08:00

If this opening line from their website doesn't convince you, I don't know what will:

"A place where Students and Alumni, Rockers and Scholars, Beer Drinkers and Wine Lovers, Football Fans and Futbol Fans come together in Penn State Tradition."

Cafe 210 West in State College, PA is just another local college bar that serves some pretty great junk food and some really cheap beer, but isn't that what we all really love at heart anyway? It's across the street from campus in a long row of shops, bars, theatres, and other eateries that would probably all be good places to choose while staying at the Days Inn on South Pugh Street.

The cafe has daily specials for both food and drink, have some pretty perfectly-textured french fries, and is really quite cheap. What else could you ask for? $2.75 TWENTY-THREE ounce Miller Lite draughts, all day every day?! $5 Miller Lite pitchers, all day every day?! Really, how can you afford to not visit this place? I had the chicken parm. grinder and was absolutely stuffed afterward; it was delicious.

If you're not up for the veggies at Green Bowl (see one of the previous posts), go to this place.

[web site]
[ map ]

210 W College Ave
State College, PA 16801
(814) 237-3449

It's All in What You Order

2009-11-11T18:48:00.000-08:00

Today was a case in point in knowing what to order. I got off my plane in Philly knowing that I was hungry and craving Pizza but if I go for the full cheesy, meaty, greasy Sabaro slice it’s never a happy ending. I walked up, fully expecting to pop a tums on my connecting flight, and saw it: a veggie pizza of my dreams. Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, peppers... all on top of the fluffy yet greasy and crunchy crust that I was craving. I won’t kid myself that it was healthy, or that I should put my antacids away, but damn if it wasn’t a decent compromise.

And isn’t that what we’re looking for so much of the time? The option that isn’t going to stick in your gut, that’s going to give you a couple of vitamins, yet will fill that comfort food need that traveling brings out in even the best of us.

Good Food in Detroit?

2009-11-10T12:53:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I know it's hard to convince yourself to leave your hotel in Detroit. I hardly ever do it, especially when I get into town in time for the Embassy Suites manager's special (carrots and broccoli! free booze!!). However, I was in town with a presenter who wanted a real meal, was vegetarian, and didn't like the look of the mini corn dogs. So we went on an adventure. Turns out, on Orchard Lake Rd, between 12 and 13 mile roads (closer to the 13 mile side), there are a ton of ethnic restaurants. Primarily indian hole-in-the-wall joints, there's also an halal restaurant and the one we ended up at, Thai Peppers. It wasn't exactly knock-your-socks-off good, but it was decent thai food, in Detroit no less. If you're looking for Indian, your prospects look even brighter considering there were about 5 places tucked in the various strip malls.

So there you go, an option for Detroit especially if you're at the Embassy Suites Southfield.

[map]

Packable Secrets: Applesauce

2009-11-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

By now, the endless run of restaurants is starting to get tiring. For a while, I was able to scrounge apples from the baskets at the front desk of my various hotels, but I know the days are coming when all of those fresh and tasty red delicious apples will turn into the waxy, freezer-burned, mealy nightmares that bring a pained tear to my washington-apple lover's eye. Many of you can turn to bananas as a source of fresh fruit, but since I'm not exactly a fan (read: can't be within 10 feet of a banana without wrinkling my nose) I had to find another option.

Enter: unsweetened applesauce in individual cups.

Leave a little space in your checked bag for these little cups of joy. They require no refridgeration and without the overly-processed taste of most restaurant foods they can save your sanity in an all-fly week. Just remember that since they're over 3 ounces, TSA will freak out if you forget to take one out of your carry-on bag. The concept is easily expandable to dole fruit cups (peaches, pinaples, yum!) and all of these varieties are easily purchased at Target or any other local grocery store while you're traveling.

San Chez Bistro--Tapas in Grand Rapids

2009-11-10T09:13:00.000-08:00

Grand Rapids has a wonderful downtown with lots of options, but one of the best I've found is San Chez. They do Tapas and if you find yourself with a non-picky presenter who loves the idea of sharing a great meal, or you happen to have a same city in town, book it over here. It's hard to order for one, and even with two you're going to have to make some tough decisions, but it's incredible and more than worth it. I didn't snap any pictures, which was a shame because presentation is beautiful, but the food was gone as soon as it arrived!

[map]

Say Yes to Sayville

2009-11-09T08:53:00.000-08:00

Long Island. Two words that make any PM want to curl up and die. Yet, if you've got access to a car and are staying at the Holiday Inn in Ronkonkama, you are not doomed to eating at the Applebees across the street. Take a right out of the parking lot, then a left at the lights and drive for about 10 minutes to get to Sayville to grab dinner or lunch.

There's a great pizza place, a nice little french bistro, a greek place, and plenty of shops and cute windows to look in. It's a nice breather from what awaits during your seminar day.

[map]

Treasure in the Ghetto

2009-11-04T11:23:00.000-08:00

Staying at the Holiday Inn next to the Newark, NJ airport is basically miserable. Feeling up for a fancy (read: pricey) night out? Check out a place called Tony da Caneca in what, as far as I could tell, is the Little Portugal section of Newark.

The color of the photo on the left is kinda' weird (thanks, camera phone), but it's a heaping portion of beef sirloin topped with prosciutto, topped with an over-easy egg, surrounded by homemade potato chips in a delightful sauce. This was just one of the many "Portuguese-style" dishes at this mom-and-pop restaurant.

It's fairly expensive, but only one exit away from the hotel on the highway and totally worth taking half your entree back to the hotel to eat the next day. Just PLEASE don't forget the GPS when you head out because the mix of one way streets, road construction, and the spaghetti-like jumble of highways around the airport made my trip back to the airport about 40-60 minutes longer than it should've been (again, thanks GPS phone).

[map]

Joe's Pizza

2009-11-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

Looking for a great cheesesteak sandwich while in the Philadelphia area? Forget driving downtown to Geno's! If you're at the Radnor hotel in St. Davids, PA, this place is only a short 5-10 minute drive if you hop on the highway and head into Broomall. Found this place through reviews on Yelp and TripAdvisor and many locals say it's their absolute favorite place for a good cheesesteak, especially the chicken. Try it traditional, with spinach and honey mustard; with buffalo sauce and blue cheese; or whatever you'd like: they're all fantastic. Large portions and low prices with a down home feel.

I love this place and will certainly come back next time I'm in the area! it's so "local" that the servers were surprised to hear that I found them based on reviews online.

[map]

Eat Well Guide

2009-10-30T11:12:00.000-07:00

Howdy foodie amigos,

I just wanted to share the Eat Well Guide with you: put your city in, it pops out Co-ops, sustainable restaurant suggestions, and pretty much anything you might want to find in the way of sustenance. Happy eating.....

Providence Recommendations?

2009-10-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

Hey there everyone, how does everyone feel about using this blog to seek out recommendations as well as outright posting our fabulous finds? Comment away, and feel free to ask for recommendations if you're heading somewhere new!

I'm heading into Providence, RI tonight, and I was wondering if anyone has found a fabulous place to eat in town? Something other than Audrey's please!

Fancy Pants Fish Food

2009-10-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

EDIT: According to the Hampton Inn staff, Swanky Bubbles closed over the summer of 2010 and is now some Irish pub/bar. It will be missed.

Last week, my first week on the road, Joanne Troutner raved on and on to Matt and I about this cool sushi/champagne place in Cherry Hill, NJ and it sounded like a strange combination. This week, my second week on the road, it just so happens that I found my way to Cherry Hill and convinced my presenter to go along with me to check it out.

~~Swanky Bubbles~~ is exactly what it sounds like; a super swanky, chic sushi restaurant and champagne bar. They serve some other eclectic dishes, but a two-page spread of sushi rolls on the menu is the place to rest your eyes. Not cheap by any means ($8 or $9 for some of the cheaper six-piece rolls), but certainly delicious. My presenter, a pescatarian and somewhat of a connoisseur of seafood, absolutely loved the lobster roll he had. I also enjoyed the Enlightenment roll and another whose name escapes me.

Decorated extremely well and a close drive to both The Mansion on Main St. and the Hampton Inn where I stayed, Swanky Bubbles is an establishment not to miss in Cherry Hill.

[ directions ]

Lobstah... a Must Have in Portland, ME

2009-10-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

If you end up in Portland, Maine, odds are you're going to want lobster. There are many places to go, but Street & Co. is worth a visit, even if you're not chasing down the succulent crustacean. It's a wonderfully rustic place tucked into an alley off of the main drag by the water. The grilled lobster will set you back about $30, but it's fabulously cooked and served over a mountainous pile of butter and garlic linguine. And save room, the blueberry pie (another Maine classic!) is melt-in-your-mouth fabulous. I've been here twice, and most recently they had a special fish stew with half lobster, which was stupendous (and so good I forgot to snap a picture before devouring it!). They also serve a dish for two--Lobster Diablo, which I believe has other seafood as well, if your presenter is game.

This is a fine dining restaurant, and priced accordingly, but don't let that scare you off! You can eat for less than your per-diem if you just do PB&J or oatmeal for a couple days :). Even if you're not feeling like lobster, they have many other tantalizing fish dishes as well as salads and "tastes" that are on the lower price end but have that intriguing, sophisticated culinary quality that eludes most hotel and airport fare.

A Cup of Tasty in Champaign

2009-10-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome back for a new year of tasty treats! I wanted to start off the year with a favorite from last year. If you are in Champaign, IL, fear not. Head to Jarling's Custard Cup and your worries will melt away before the frozen custard melts in your mouth. It's not too far from the airport and it has so many flavors your eyes will glaze over when you see the selection board. My personal faves include the rootbeer float and anything involving raspberries. Just make sure you bring cash, since they don't take credit card.

Best Italian Food in Milwaukee....

2009-05-05T11:55:00.000-07:00

Sooooo... After a big day of going on the Miller Brewery Tour and seeing the waterfront in Milwaukee (2 awesome things to do there), finish it off at Ziffaro's It a small Italian joint close to north downtown that has been open since the 1940s. They serve everything fresh and its all made in-house. They serve Italian beers like Peroni and also have a good selection of white and red wines. The lady that served us was really salty and kind of a bitch, but the food makes it worth the trip. I got the Ravioli with sausage and had a side salad to compliment. My speaker had the lasagna and it was literally a brick and a half of food. The portions are MASSIVE and its a good bang for your buck (no not that kinda bang you perv....). It's definitely a meal you can take in a to-go container and eat the next day for lunch. ZIFFAROS!! HOLLA!!

Actual Food. From Vegans.

2009-04-17T12:45:00.001-07:00

Hol-eee Shee-it.

Once every couple of months, I decide to become a vegetarian (again).
But because I am as fanatical as a cult member, being a vegetarian always seems like the sissy way out. After a couple of days, I try to be a vegan.
It never works, though, because vegan food tastes like doormat. A few weeks into my new vegan leaf-turnover, I get angry and belligerant, say, "Fuckit", and order me some baby back ribs.

But on Wednesday night, I went to the Chicago Diner, whose slogan is "Meat-Free since '83" (where can I get a t-shirt?) and had the BEST GODDAMN VEGAN MEAL OF MY LIFE.
It was amazing!!

Get the rueben. It looks like a rueben, smells like a rueben, and tastes exactly like a greasy, corned-beefy, glorious rueben. But it's vegan! It slops all over you. And it comes with gorgeous sweet potato fries. And then I had a peanut-butter cookie dough "milkshake" that was actually better than any real milkshake I've ever had!

And the waitresses are hot.

Chicago Diner is in Boy's Town, downtown Chicago. Go go go!

I could actually be a vegan if I could eat here every day.

Another Reason to Love Charlottesville

2009-04-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

So maybe they stole the WSU coach, but Charlottesville isn't all bad (especially if you're a Dawg, haha!). If you're at the Holiday Inn near the University there's an Indian restaurant with a tasty lunch buffet, Milan Indian. Don't be like me and try to get your fill of the rice pudding without remembering that rice goes *puff* in your stomach about 20 minutes later. I found their vegetarian options to be better than their curries honestly, but their kabob chicken (which looked like a giant fajita platter sizzling away) was succulent and tasty.

The Place: Milan Indian, next door to the Holiday Inn

The Food: Indian Lunch Buffet

The Price: Under $10

Great Groceries: Wegmans

2009-04-14T11:09:00.000-07:00

KN and I found out that taking photos in grocery stores is verboten, so sadly I only have the one illicit photo of the candy display that got me yelled at by a cashier on a power-trip.

If you are at the Embassy Suites Hunt Valley, outside of Baltimore you can enjoy a tasty lunch by simply traipsing over to the Wegman's Grocery near the shopping center across the street. The have anything and everything a hungry PM could want... salad bars, fresh panini bar, greek yogurt, olive bar, cheese case, organic fruit... It's like Whole Foods on steroids. There is an actual eating area in the store, and so many ready-to-eat foods you'll wonder why you ever ate at an Applebee's. Just don't look for wine there, evidently Maryland is one of those states where alcohol sales are restricted to liquor and wine stores only. There are Wegman's in other places (and you should make a point of going to one if you find one), although I think they are limited to the east coast at this point. This one just happens to be right across the street from the hotel.

Ethiopian South of the Mason-Dixon Line

2009-04-14T10:52:00.001-07:00

Here's a good option if you find yourself in Richmond with a same city and some adventurous presenters: Nile Ethiopian will provide you with a platter of what looks like dog food, but which tastes like heaven. I convinced a crew of six of us to head there one evening when there was a massive pileup of seminars in the city, and we were not disappointed. If you're there to share, I'd recommend getting an order or two of something meaty and then splitting the vegetable dish medley. It's perfect to get you out of an all-cracker-barrel-all-the-time rut.

The Place: Nile Ethiopian

The Price: most dishes are under $15, and designed to share. You could do a large feast for two for around $20-25 each.

Fabulous Fare in Madison

2009-04-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

Ok so I wish I had pictures but there is a wonderful place downtown Madison really close to the Capitol and only a few blocks from the Edgewater. It's called "The Old Fashioned" and it's on Pinckney Street. The website is: www.theoldfashioned.com

They have Lazy Susan's with different small plates, Wisconsin cheese plates, a ton of beers on tap as well as a good wine list! The prices are really good to for what you get!

Check out the website for specific details.

Thank God for Bethlehem

2009-04-03T09:22:00.001-07:00

OMG. You better thank your lucky stars if you're gonna be in Allentown, Pennsylvania because staying at the Comfort Suites in Bethlehem gets you THATMUCHCLOSER to a few of the best restaurants ever. EVER.

The Restaurant #1: Bethlehem Brew Works
The Food: You must get their 1) Wit beer (it's got chamomile and lemon), 2) Christmas spinach salad (cinnamon dressing), 3) Mac and Cheese (fucking amazing). Be warned: This is the best mac and cheese I've ever had in my life. (But it's no good the next day. Eat it all when served.)
The Price: Under $20 per entree (totally worth it, you're gonna die)

Restaurant #2: Looper's Grille and Bar
The Food: No food, folks. Only drinks. They have over 400 different flavors of martinis at this place. You've gotta go if just to see their list (in a binder) and the hottest bartender I've ever seen. (Ask for JT.) Start with the Happy Hollydays and move to the Purple Buddha. Trust me. Bonus: This place is 3 blocks from the Comfort Inn and Suites. Walking distance for when you get TRASHED.
The Price: Under $10 for each drink

The Restaurant #3: Vegan Treats
The Food: I don't care if you're not vegan because it doesn't matter. You can't even tell. You need eggs to make baked goods? Not here, apparently. This place is the best bakery I've been to on the east coast. For sure. You can't go wrong with the peanut butter mousse brownie or the peanut butter cup brownie. The raspberry crumble bar is pretty bombass, too.
The Price: Under $5

Ask Matty D about this place. He loves this shit.

Chain Gang #1: Potbelly

2009-04-03T07:26:00.001-07:00

Yeahyeahyeah, chainsarethedevil.com, but I thought this might be a good time to expound upon my love for certain restaurants with multiple locations scattered across the United States. And I thought we might cleverly call the series the Chain Gang. OMGPUNZ! So here is entry #1:

Inspired by AH's gentle nudge, I'm going to debut on the PM food blog with a post about my favorite sub shop in the entire universe, Potbelly Sandwich Works (which I incorrectly refer to in the possessive as Potbelly's, just like grandma used to do). The first restaurant started out as an antique shop on Lincoln Avenue in Chicago, and since 2003, Potbelly's has been adding locations both in and outside of Chicagoland. According to their website, the PB's empire currently reaches 12 states and one national capitol.

Anyway, ABOUT the FOOD. Potbelly subs (and acoutrement) are so good, I have been known to drive as many as 30 miles out of the way when a craving hits. Most of the subs are served hot (don't worry, this is no Quizno's, which I loathe and is a whole 'nother story), but a few, like the PBJ and chicken salad, are cold. My favorite is the classic Turkey Breast served with melted swiss, but the perennial favorite, especially for MEAT-LOVIN' MEN, is the Wreck, with salami, roast beef, turkey and ham. They've also got an I-talian with mortadella, capicola, pepperoni and salami. All of it is sliced nice and thin and positively LOADED on the yummy, fresh-baked bread. PB's has only got a few veggie options (including the aforementioned PBJ, which is not just for kids), but those they do offer are d-lish-us, just like the rest of the menu.

Ok, so we've got our meat, and bread (I recommend wheat for the road, of course, for regularity), which is all hunky dory but this kinda sounds like 'Bway, right? So, devastatingly wrong. The thing that sets Potbellies apart are the mmm mmm good fixins that complete your scrumptious sando (I know, right, why aren't I writing ad copy for a living????). Of course, you can choose from the classic lettuce/tomato/onion/pickle/mayo/mustard/oil/vinegar/seasoning, but I heartily recommend the hot pepper mix that keeps me coming back and back and back and back. OMG! They are so good! It's basically a mixture of carrots, cauliflower, red peppers and jalepenos that are more or less "pickled" to make the sandwich pretty darn spicy. But something about this mixture brings out the flavors of the individual elements of your sandwich more than mask them like plain jalepenos tend to do. So pretty much Annie+hot peppers=LURVE.
***WARNING: if you have tastebuds like a baby, these might be too hot. If I were to rate them on a scale of 1 to 7, I'd give them a 6***

BUT IT DOESN'T STOP THERE! In addition to amazing sandwiches and pretty darn good salads (with unconventionalforfastfood yet tasty toppings like artichoke hearts and chick peas), PB's also has to-DIE-for desserts. Think hand-dipped shakes and malts (whuzzat? asked one of my Seattleite friends in college...drinkable Whoppers, I told her) and delectable almost-raw oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. I love these cookies so much, I made the cashier bake a little of the next day's dough when they had run out yesterday. I'll wait, I said. They're almost raw anyways.

So there you have it: America's best sandwiches, accompanied by America's best cookies, all for the low price of under $10.

Dino-Mite!

2009-04-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

Hi PM's~

It's Drew again with another suggestion for good eats. Once again I am in up state NY and am finding the notquietyet spring weather depressing and the bevy of blah chain restaurants depressing.

So much to my delight I stumbled upon a restaurant that Kyle H and the lovely Jaimie Bailey brought to my attention.

DINOSAUR BBQ!

So good! They are a true BBQ with pits and grills in the parking lot and a roadhouse ambiance certainly adds to the kitch charm.

They have pork, steak, and all the fixins, not too mention a killer list of sides that would do any texas joint proud, and a great beer list only sweetens the pot.

I ordered the Rueben Sandwhich with mac n chz and to top it off I got a piece of sweet potato-pecan pie. I think they cater to the northern/western taste buds as they didn't over sweetn' it like they do in the south. It was sweet and spicy just like pumpkin pie!

Check it out ya'll.

A Packable Wonder

2009-04-01T10:48:00.001-07:00

Here's another idea that I think we all can use: food items that can be easily packed without worrying about perishability. I'm going to post some of my favorites under a "Packable Food" tag, and invite anyone who packs their own lunch from time to time (or sees their low-maintenance presenter eating something from his or her suitcase that looks tempting) to do the same.
Not to be a brand whore, but Healthy Choice (and potentially Marie Callender's as well) has released a new microwavable pasta dish that actually cooks up really well and requires no refrigeration. The "Fresh Mixers" taste decent, and while they do take up a significant amount of space and cannot be carried on (due to liquid sauce, LAME), chuck one in your suitcase or snag one at your local Target or grocery store. It's better than a frozen dinner, and surprisingly filling. They're around $3 a pop, but pretty nice to have on hand when you get to your middle-of-nowhere hotel only to find the restaurant closes at 8pm.

Another Free Breakfast Worth Paying for

2009-04-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

El Paso is a rough town. Ask the front desk at the Radisson where to wander around to find a meal and they'll tell you that even thinking about looking around downtown is a good way to get mugged. They'll send you to a nice Mexican restaurant with fishbowl margaritas and decent food (and they'll drive you there in the shuttle if you ask nicely), but the real secret is their own free breakfast. Order the huevos rancheros. Your tummy will thank you.

The Place: El Paso Radisson
The Food: Huevos Rancheros
The Price: Free

Mon Amie Chez Daisie

2009-03-27T16:03:00.000-07:00

Bonjour my fellow PM's. I have found a gem in upstate New York. No, not wings. I for one cannot do the whole wing thing, I just am not capable of the whole grinding on meat off the bone thing. Yes, I am sure it's delicious but I don't paint on cave walls with my hands and fight off wooly mammoths at every turn so I wont be using my newly minted opposable thumbs to gnaw on some meat fresh of the bone.
Sorry... tangent!
Anyway, the gem I found that makes the blandness of upstate NY stand out was a quaint little Crepe place in Schenectady. It is called Chez Daisie and it serves up both sweet and savory in a cute café like atmosphere. Check it out.
183 Jay StSchenectady, NY 12305(518) 344-7082

The World of Virginia Drive-By Cuisine

2009-03-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has been assigned to Richmond 7 times in the course of one BER year gets to know the Virginia landscape pretty well. It's a beautiful state, full of green farm fields and great historical places, along with tasty eats. In this post, I want to discuss the options for the horrible 3 hour Roanoke to Richmond drive, since I've done it twice this year.

You have two options for driving:

Option 1 is what your Garmin will suggest automatically--driving the diagonal, more direct route through Lynchburg (worst named city in the country imho) and Appomattox. On a three hour drive, you will most likely want to stop and eat somewhere. DO NOT assume that Appomattox, with the reconstructed courthouse where the civil war ended and it's sign advertising "Restaurants and Antique Shops" is a good place to stop. Unless you want Dairy Queen, the only currently open restaurant is Grannie Bee's. This is a place where the over 60 set gather to share "Sahl-oh-mahn" cakes and "the extra vegetable of the evening... mac'n'cheese" while waiting for karaoke night to start. I am not joking. This place is a living, breathing southern Twilight Zone episode. You can get sweet tea, but from the look of it, you can also get food poisoning, or at least a loss of appetite. Beware, and get dinner in Farmville or Lynchburg instead.

Option 2, in which you pass through Charlottesburg, is the longer route, but has WAY better options as far as dinner is concerned. Charlottesburg has in fact completely won me over--thank your lucky stars if you get a seminar in this adorable college town near Jefferson and Madison's homes. The first time, I passed through as a drive by dinner stop, where I had fabulous chicken catchatorie at the South Street Brewery in the historic downtown area (South street and 2nd). They also had an amazing-sounding porter that had "chocolate" in it's name, if you're not a lightweight, don't pass out after a beer, or if you can get your sober presenter to drive the rest of the way... There's also a great pedestrian walking area not far from the brewery, where you can find a ton of good options. If your presenter has hinted at taking you out for a nice dinner, or has expressed a craving for crab, look no further than Hamilton's on the Pedestrian walk way near 2nd street. Their crab cakes (pictured at left) were their specialty for good reason. It's not quite as good as dungeness, but full of huge lumps of crab. I shared them with my presenter, along with a salmon dish which was very nicely done as well, and then the "chocolate many ways" dessert, which was to die for. We caught a glimpse of the key lime and coconut cake as we were walking out, completely stuffed, and wished we had just another inch of space in our stomachs. There are non-seafood dishes on the menu, all looked very well done.

The Drive: Richmond to Roanoke, or visa versa, via Charlottesburg. (or Appomattox if you're brave)

The Place: Charlottesburg Historic Downtown district, with the South Street Brewery and Hamilton's

The Food: The brewery has decent pub food, including some lighter options like chicken catchatorie. Hamilton's has good seafood as well as other gourmet dishes. They also have a decent appetizer menu that could serve as a multiple-items shared meal, lowering the cost a bit.

The Price: South Street Brewery is under $20. Hamiltons is mostly under $30.

Eating at the Marriott, Richmond

2009-03-24T10:07:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you don't want to go very far once you've gotten to your hotel. You've valet parked your car and just want a quick bite at the restaurant in the hotel, but cringe at the prices and the lack of taste. Lucky for you, the Marriott at the Richmond Convention Center actually has a decent restaurant, The Bluefire Grill. I ordered their Bluefire salad and asked if they could put some grilled steak on it. For under $25 I had an amazingly well cooked medium rare steak of decent size over a delicious salad with a glass of red wine. It pays to be creative since that exact dish wasn't exactly on their dinner menu.

Watch out on this place at lunchtime though, I went there with two other PMs during a same city and it was a slow-and-painful hell hole. The kitchen cannot support feeding the local government types along with a seminar crowd, so if you want lunch there order early. Also, don't push it from the pulpit during the announcement, you'll get lots of angry participants who got their lunch at the last second.

The Place: The Bluefire Grill at the Marriott in Downtown Richmond, VA

The Food: They cook a decent steak. Also, they have many "gourmet" options that actually come out well... the portobello burger is tasty and their salads avoid iceberg (well, except for their tasty-looking wedge salad)

The Price: Lunch under $20, some under $10, Dinner under $30

A Free Breakfast Worth Paying For

2009-03-24T09:59:00.000-07:00

If you're ever at the Holiday Inn Executive Center in Norfolk, VA but lack Priority Club Gold status, put on your nicest smile and ask for the free breakfast coupon. Even if it is not forthcoming from the lovely hotel front desk staff, I'd recommend even *gasp* paying for their buffet. Why you ask?

Waffles.

Fresh strawberries.

Blueberries.

REAL whipped cream.

Never have I seen such amazingness at a breakfast buffet. They have re-done their restaurant recently and are evidently putting forth some decent effort to up their Holiday Inn caché.

Southern Seafood In Raleigh, NC

2009-03-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

Ahh the South... So much good fried food available. But what if you want something a little lighter? Like maybe seafood? Do you tuck your tail between your legs and wimper? No, you go to Fishmongers in Durham, NC.

Only a short drive from the Marriott Civic Center and across the street from the main block of Brightleaf Square, this place has a long list of good beer and a fresh selection of fish and sides. The picture is the barbecued shrimp, but any of the fish selections "blackened" are winners too. Their soups are great for lunch and it's a Seattlites dream in the deep-fried south to find a decent piece of fish. Get the more southern-style sides (butter beans are amazing if they have them) and ask for a reccomendation for what's the freshest.

The Place: Fishmongers, W. Main St. Durham, NC in the Brightleaf Square area

The Food: Fresh fish, southern-style side dishes, long beer list

The Price: The fish is around $15-20 an entree, but many options are closer to the $5-15 range.

Fresh Vegetables in State College, PA

2009-03-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

When I'm on the road I find that decent vegetables are the hardest thing to find. You can get a good steak, frothy mashed potatoes, a tasty salad, a Panera sandwich... but finding broccoli or green beans is near impossible. So if you're passing through State College, Pennsylvania and have only gotten vitamins via the Flinstone chewable variety, walk past the Panera and stop in at the Green Bowl.

Make sure you're good and hungry before you go... This is an all-you-can-eat, make-your-own stir-fry bar (but don't call it mongolian grill). For about $8.50, you can go to the bar as many times as you want... and all the ingredients of your dreams are there: veggies, tofu, eggs, noodles, and a bar of sauces you can mix and match to your heart's content, all finished off by selecting what kind of meat you want. Chicken, beef, shrimp, calamari... and it's not those frozen sheets of slivered meat you'd get at a mongolian grill. You pick a colored swizzle stick to denote what meat you want and the stir-frier adds good sized shrimp or chunky steak, plus it doesn't take up space in your bowl. They bring the dish to you at your table and provide you with a bowl of brown or white rice (the brown rice was cooked perfectly, btw). Get creative... if it tastes horrible, you can always go back and try again.

The Place: The Green Bowl, on E Beaver Ave in the same block as Panera. Walking distance from the Day's Inn and a short drive from Toftrees.

The Food: All-you-can-eat, load-up-on-veggies, stir-fry bar

The Price: Under $10

A Taste of Tibet in Madison, WI

2009-03-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

If you're up for something a bit off from the typical fare, there are a million ethnic restaurants on State St. in Madison. You gotta love a college town for the plethora of coffee houses and decent Asian restaurants.

After a nice walk down State street, we ended up at Himal Chuli. There, they serve tasty Himalayan cuisine, very similar to Indian but still distinct. Their dal is more like a split pea soup than the lentils you'd get at a traditional Indian restaurant, but the flavor is stupendous. Their menu, like a good indian menu, covers a wide variety of vegetarian options as well as lamb, chicken, beef, and what looked like very tasty soups (perfect for a frozen day or to help you recover from a cold). The brown rice was a bit "al dente," but overall it was delicious and the lamb was melt-in-your-mouth tender.

The Place: Himal Chuli, 318 State St, Madison WI

The Food: Vegetarian options galore, succulant lamb dishes, and tasty rice pudding

The Price: Under $20, but most Veggie dishes under $10.

Wings!

2009-03-18T06:24:00.000-07:00

OMG, if you're going to be in White Plains, New York in the next few weeks, count yourself as lucky because you will have the opportunity to experience the BEST WINGS IN THE COUNTRY! I'm telling you, the Sicilian chicken wings from City Chowhouse in New Rochelle, New York (White Plains area) are the most amazing I've ever had. They're marinated in special sauces for 24 hours, then baked with onions and olive oil in a cedar-fired oven and tossed with reggiano cheese and fresh herbs. Holy crap, you've never tasted anything so good.

The Place: City Chowhouse in the Radisson Hotel in New Rochelle, NY

The Food: Sicilian chicken wings, or try the mac & cheese or the burgers!

The Price: Since this is essentially a hotel restaurant, it can be pricey, especially if you're like me and you want to order 3 or 4 different dishes. The entrees are mostly under $20 unless you're interested in the steak or the fish which can be a little over $20. (But it's all worth it!)

Finally, the atmosphere of this place is Sex-in-the-City-chic meets black-and-white-Vegas-nightclub. They have sleek white booths and shiny surfaces and candle lights and movies playing on the walls. It's a great place to have a drink with a colleague...or down a glass of wine yourself.

Tasty Italian in East Peoria

2009-03-17T11:55:00.001-07:00

Right across the parking lot from the Stoney Creek Inn in East Peoria, IL is a nice little Italian restaurant. Basta East Port has extremely reasonable lunch dishes (sandwiches, pasta, entrees, and salads all under $10, and generously portioned!) that taste amazing. I had a grilled chicken and portabella sandwich which was accompanied by a small cup of penne with marinara sauce.

Anyone who craves simple pasta on the road should definitely stop here--the pasta was super flavorful, and while the sandwich was a bit drippy from the mushroom's marinade and pesto spread, it was damn fine. The restaurant is right on N. Main Street, next to the shell station in front of the hotel, so easy walking distance. They also have a similar dinner menu, although at higher prices, and a decent selection of wines and beer.

The Place: Basta East Port, N. Main St. East Peoria

The Food: Sandwiches and Pasta, Entrees too!

The Price: Lunch menu is almost entirely $10 or less, Dinner is generally under $20

A note on the hotel room... it was adorable and had a teddy bear living in it when I arrived. He liked the look of my lunch as well.

A Blog for Foodies on the Road

2009-03-17T11:02:00.001-07:00

Hello fellow BER Program Managers! Have you gotten incredibly sick of food options on the road? Have you had one too many bad meals or hotel lunches? Is the lack of bagels making your tummy growl more often? Do you dream wistfully of simple spaghetti, a decent sandwich, authentic ethnic food, or a fresh stir-fry? Let's help solve the problem of "where do I eat today?" by creating a database via this blog.

Here's how I envision this working: Find a decent meal somewhere and post about it here, adding tags for city, type of food, price range, and whatever else we decide to tag on. Pictures are encouraged, but not required. Please include the address or general location, any recommendations of what to order while you're there, and whether it's accessible from a specific hotel by walking/shuttle or requires a car/taxi. Add stories, side comments, and whatever else you want, as long as it focuses on food. Above all, TAG TAG TAG! Because that's the magic: when you arrive in a city and are unsure of what to eat, go to the tag list and find your city. Once we all contribute for a while, we should develop a good sized list of eating options across the country, and none of us will ever have to fear another crappy dinner.

Hopefully we can create a useful site that can facilitate not only tasty meals, but even more camaraderie between all of us traveling nomads. Feel free to add in stories, fun tidbits, local color, and whatever else made your meal enjoyable. The only thing I'd ask us to refrain from is naming names in a negative light, especially when it comes to presenters. Make up a name instead, to protect the not-so-innocent. Here's to good food, good friends, and safe travels.

Cheers!