Food and Restaurants

Finding Romance in Kansas City

April 2, 2012 By Jody Halsted 5 Comments

I love how much we travel with our girls. Near or far, it’s always an adventure. But sometimes we adults need some time to get away and remember just why we fell in love.

Doug and I recently had an “adults only” getaway to Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Missouri. The Plaza holds special memories for us as Doug surprised me with a weekend getaway there when we were early in our relationship and we took a long weekend there when we got married. It was the perfect getaway to reconnect and enjoy a little romance.

The Raphael Hotel, Kansas City Most Romantic Boutique Hotel

The Raphael, Kansas City’s Romantic Boutique Hotel

The minute you arrive at the Raphael Hotel you know you’re somewhere special. The elegant brick structure brings to mind a time when buildings were built with care, each brick an important piece of the finished work. As your vehicle rolls to a stop your door is opened and you are welcomed with a flourish by the impeccably dressed doorman. As the doors open and you enter the gilded lobby you know you’ve stepped back in time to a day when luxury hotel stays meant you dressed for dinner and guests were treated as more than bodies in a room.

Suite at Raphael Hotel

Most of the rooms in the hotel are suites featuring a roomy sitting area with desk and television and a separate sleeping area. I love this type of room as I am an early riser and Doug loves to sleep in when he can. I enjoyed tea made in the Keurig and utilized the free wireless internet at my leisure- so relaxing with no little ones interrupting. A light breakfast delivered from the on-site restaurant made my morning complete.

While the hotel, itself, is an incredible treat it is the staff that makes it truly special. Every coming or going is recognized with a greeting, wishes for a good day, or offer of assistance; it feels like every member of the staff wants your stay to be perfect.

The Chaz Restaurant

Smoked Salmon Benedect & Bananas Foster French Toast

With live music practically every evening and an eclectic variety of dishes, it’s no wonder Chaz on the Plaza has become one of Kansas City’s favorite dining spots.

The restaurant is small and quiet which made it perfect for pre-dinner drinks and a small appetizer. The Braised Veal Cheek Sliders are a must, the incredibly tender meat so well accompanied by the salty mildness of the Emmentaler cheese.

The breakfast menu had a decidedly French feel with omelets, Benedicts and a Bananas Foster French Toast that was simply heavenly. The only disappointment was the Chicken Fried Steak. While good, it was almost as if the meat was too nice of a cut and the breading too light and not crisp enough. (Yes, I know, how sad is it to say a piece of meat was too good?)

Enjoying Country Club Plaza as a Couple

Country Club Plaza was created to resemble Seville, Spain. Statues, murals, tile mosaics and beautiful buildings make this a perfect area for strolling, hand in hand. Upscale shops attract your eye and dozens of restaurants are available to please you palate. My top picks for romance:

Best place to relive Lady & the Tramp’s Spaghetti Scene: Buca di Beppo

This Italian restaurant is popular with large groups for their family style dining, but small, private boots are perfect for your romantic evening.

Best place when the cost doesn’t matter: McCormick’s & Schmick’s

Known for their steaks and seafood, M&S serves only the very freshest food available. The chefs are known for their incredible variety and perfect presentation. For a truly private dining experience reserve a snug.

Best for couples who can’t agree on what to eat: Fogo de Chao

Roasting Meat at Fogo de Chao

Meats slowly cooked over fire. And a salad bar that even salad haters will love. Gauchos who bring the meat, on the skewer, to your table and slice it off right in front of you. And tasty side dishes that include caramelized bananas and warm cheese bread that is lighter than air.

Most romantic for dessert: The Melting Pot

Chocolate fondue. Need I say more? OK, chocolate fondue and champagne.

Best place to relax on a beautiful afternoon: O’Dowd’s Little Dublin

Ploughman's Platter, O'Dowd's Little Dublin, Kansas City

Bangers, cheese and toasts

Head directly for the only rooftop deck on the Plaza. Relax with a drink, nibble on the Ploughman’s Platter, talk, flirt, and remember what life was like before kids.

Kansas City is one of our favorite destinations, both as a couple and as a family. With so much to do, so many things going on, it’s no wonder one of our favorite sayings is “Kansas City Here We Come!”

Disclosure: This getaway was fully paid for by Doug & I.

Filed Under: Food and Restaurants, hotel, Hotels and Lodging, Midwest, USA

Best Bites Near Phoenix – Restaurants the Entire Family Will Love

March 27, 2012 By Jody Halsted 1 Comment

Finding great family restaurants when you’re traveling can be tricky. Thankfully the SunnyAZ CVB directed me to quite a few restaurants near Phoenix that were both family friendly and incredibly delectable!

Best Restaurant for Feeding a Hungry Family

The Old Spaghetti Factory, located at the Chandler Fashion Center, is the perfect stop to fill your hungry family. One of Parents Mazine’s 10 best family restaurant chains, you’ll find large portions at a reasonable price. Dinner entrees for kids and adults are complete meals, served with fresh bread, soup or salad, a drink and spumoni for dessert.

After enjoying an Italian meal the fountains are fun to watch

Tip: Enjoy the water show in the fountains outside the restaurant or treat the kids to a stop in the Lego Store in Chandler Fashion Center.

Best Meal With a Show

Family Style Sides at the Mining Camp Restaurant, Apache Junction, Arizona

Baked Beans, Coleslaw & Fresh Baked Rolls

If you find yourself in Apache Junction, near the base of the Superstition Mountains, you’ll want to make reservations at the Mining Camp Restaurant. All You Can Eat meals, served family style, begin with hot rolls or homemade raisin bread. For a real treat smother them with Cactus Jelly. Roast chicken, oven baked ham and barbeque ribs fill the table, barely leaving room for the accompanying pots of coleslaw and baked beans.

The Mining Camp Restaurant- Dinner & a Show

The McNasty Brothers put on a fun show while you eat

Tip: Call ahead for reservations- the Old West Musical Luncheon is very popular!

Best for Breakfast

Bacon Studded Waffles, Silver Dollar Pancakes & Breakfast Burrito with Braised Short Ribs

Though the name stands for Breakfast Lunch Dinner you’ll really want to come to BLD in Chandler for your morning meal. Try the Breakfast Burrito with Braised Short Ribs, the Bacon Studded Waffles with Fried Chicken or the almost sinful Monte Cristo. The kids will adore the Silver Dollar Chocolate Chip pancakes (hint- silver dollars are BIG in Arizona!)

Wikki Stix figure made at BLD in Chandler, AZ

So much better than crayons....

Tip: Kids are given a packet of Wikki Stix instead of the traditional crayons. Best. Thing. Ever.

Best Traditional Mexican

Totally yummy!

Serrano’s, a family-owned Chandler institution, is incredibly popular- especially on the weekends- so come early or be plan to wait. Everything is prepared fresh and comes to you sizzling hot. Try the Prickly Pear margarita- with or without alcohol- it’s delicious.

Paletas at paletas Betty in Chandler, Arizona

A sweet treat made of real fruit.

Tip- If you’re dining at the original Chandler location skip dessert and head to the opposite side of the town square for a sweet at Paletas Betty. These handmade fruit or cream pops are irresistible. Fruit flavors are seasonal; try the arroz con leche, a traditional rice pudding dessert made with freshly ground canela.

Best Hyper-Local Cuisine

Only the freshest food at Joe's Farm Grill in Gilbert, Arizona

BBQ Chicken Pizza & Sonoran Dog

You can’t get much more local than growing the restaurant’s food just outside your door, which is exactly what makes Joe’s Farm Grill at Agritopia worth the drive to Gilbert. Items that aren’t produced in Agritopia’s lush gardens are local, organic or natural. The food is beyond amazing, portions are large enough to share and Joe’s popularity has people from miles around standing in long (long) lines for amazing, fresh food combinations. Hint: if you go on a weekend call ahead to place your order.

Cupcake from The Coffee Shop at Agritopia, Gilbert, Arizona

Sprinkles & Sparkles? Best. Cupcake. Ever.

Tip- Try not to eat too much, or plan to walk around the farm, because you’ll want one of the cupcakes from The Coffee Shop at Agritopia. Created by Jessica Cuff and Jenna Flowers, winners of Cupcake Wars, these treats are as pretty as they are delicious.

Best Place Lose Yourself

Filet at Mionti's Casa Vieja in Tempe, Arizona

A perfectly prepared steak

Located in the first home built in Tempe, Monti’s La Casa Vieja has become a sprawling mansion of deliciosity. Home to one of the finest steaks you’ll ever eat and the Monti family’s famed ‘Roman Bread’, this is one of Tempe’s most popular restaurants for groups and celebrations. The Filet Mignon will melt in your mouth.

Tip: Your place mat is a ‘self guided tour’ of the restaurant, complete with history. Be sure to ask your server about family secrets and the ghost.

Best Midwest Comfort Food

Pork tenderloin at Iowa Cafe in Mesa, Arizona

Famous Pork Tenderloin Photo Credit: Roadfood.com

It’s a joke here in Iowa that we lose half our population every winter to Arizona. And, really, it’s not that far from true. So it just makes sense that the Iowa Café’s small, hometown ambiance is one of Mesa’s most popular restaurants. People come from as far as, well… Iowa, for their Famous Pork Tenderloins and homemade pie.

Tip: Breakfast, lunch & supper are served all day. And, yes, you can have pie for breakfast.

Best Place to Use as Bribery to Make the Kids Behave

Aisles of candy! Photo credit: Sweeties Candy of Arizona

Sweeties Candy, the largest candy store in Arizona, stocks the widest variety of candy you’ll find anywhere! From seasonal treats to crazy large bulk items; if you can’t find it here, you won’t find it anywhere. Looking for a favorite treat from childhood? If it’s still being manufactured you’ll probably find it.

Tip: This is a great bribery tool when traveling with the kids. Just beware- walking through the aisles is likely to make them as hyper as if they had eaten all the candy!

Share your favorite Phoenix area restaurants in the comments!

Family Rambling thanks the Sunny AZ CVB for sharing their favorite restaurants with us- and treating us to a few meals!

Filed Under: Food and Restaurants, Southwest, USA

Defining a Good Pub

March 23, 2012 By Jody Halsted 1 Comment

This week’s theme for p52 is “hunger’. And while I could have shown you the meager diet I am eating this week as an effort to reset my body to healthy eating after weeks of travel, I thought I’d take a different twist on the topic and share a food that I hunger for- when it’s prepared correctly.

Be it right or wrong, I define a good pub by a single meal… Fish and Chips.

Fish & Chips at the Dubliner in Kansas City

If the fish is too greasy, the batter not crispy enough or, heaven forbid, the fish is cold,I’m not likely to return any time soon.

My most recent Fish & Chips experience was at the new Dubliner Irish Ale House & Pub in Kansas City’s Power & Light District. As you can see the fish is lovely and crisp, the sides aren’t too large and the presentation is attractive. Big bonus- it was still sizzling when it arrived at my table- no small task as the pub was packed with NCAA fans. The cod was perfectly flaky and the sauce was a tasty change from traditional tartar sauces. I’ll be returning to The Dubliner after March Madness is over to check out their full menu.

Filed Under: Food and Restaurants

Cuisinious Fort Worth Dining

November 7, 2011 By Jody Halsted 3 Comments

Cuisinious: Food that looks, smells and tastes delectable. (Urban Dictionary)

Fort Worth is filled with fabulous restaurants. Truly. A quick Google search yields nearly 350 highly recommended restaurants. Too many for me to choose from! So I turned to the pros on all things Fort Worth: the Fort Worth Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, who recommended two restaurants that “wowed” us with ambiance, customer service and delectable food.

Joe T. Garcia’s, Where Fort Worth Goes for Mexican

From the front Joe T. Garcia’s appears to be an intimate restaurant, not flashy nor overly large.

Appearances can be deceiving.

Poolside Dining at Joe T Garcia's

While the interior of the restaurant may be all those things, the incredible patio- stretching a city block- is, in a word, phenomenal. As we meandered through tables filled with lunch time diners Brenna took my hand and said, “Mom, it’s like we’re eating in a castle.”

Patio Path at Joe T Garcia's, Fort Worth

Wandering the gardens at Joe T Garcia's

The high stone walls surrounding the patio look like a match for the Missions in San Antonio. Fountains, cabanas and pools wait around every turn of the path, twisting walkways lead you through an oasis of flora, seemingly never-ending. Though the patio can seat well over 500 people, the garden setting feels incredibly intimate, almost secluded in spots.

The mixed scents of flowers and Mexican dishes is intoxicating. Over freshly made tortilla chips and salsa made in-house we took out eyes off the surroundings long enough to choose our meal. The menu, perfected over 70 years of business, isn’t large but has enough offerings to please everyone- even the kids.

Beef Fajitas and Chicken Flautas

Everything at Joe T. Garcia’s is handmade. You can tell from the first bite. And, while you can’t go wrong with anything you order, allow me to highly recommend the Chicken Flautas. Trust me.

Know before you go:
Open at 11am daily.
Monday- Thursday the restaurant closes at 2:30pm, opening again for dinner at 5pm.
Credit cards are not accepted. Average entree $10; $

Upscale Southwestern at Romantic Reata

When initially entering Reata in downtown Fort Worth the vibe is very Texas. Leather, dark woods, comfy chairs in the lounge. As you walk through it begins to feel more luxurious, romantic and special.

From the beginning we knew dinner would be memorable. As she led us to our table our hostess chatted with my little cowgirls about their new cowgirl hats. A birthday card, signed by the staff, was waiting at the table for Doug. And our server, Ashley, was the epitome of Texas charm.

Tender filet and grilled shrimp; Elk

The menu had so many choices, each sounding more delicious than the last. We ended up ordering our entrees from the nightly specials; I enjoyed a beautifully prepared filet with shrimp while Doug tried the game special: Elk. The girls split some incredible Macaroni and Cheese- agreeing to share because they had spied the dessert tray as we entered.

Apple Cobbler, Bread Pudding Tamale, Banana Pudding and Dessert Tacos

While dinner at Reata is outstanding, I would go just for the desserts. They all looked so good that we each ended up ordering our own! Doug and my little cowgirls’ dessert plates may have arrived with special chocolate designs, but my Bread Pudding Tamale (seasonal) stole the show for presentation.

Before waddling out of Reata we took the elevator to the 4th floor and wandered around the incredible rooftop patio. The next time we are in the area I predict the girls will spend an evening with their grandparents while Doug and I enjoy a romantic date.

Know before you go:
Dining on a weekend or during an event? Make a reservation- especially for the rooftop patio.
Valet parking is free!
Entrees average $27; $$$

Fort Worth Vacations

Disclosure: The Fort Worth CVB made our reservations for these dining experiences and the expenses were covered. We did, however, tip our servers handsomely as they were fabulous! Photos and thoughts are my own.

Filed Under: Food and Restaurants, South, USA

Top Budget Eats in London

October 4, 2011 By Jody Halsted Leave a Comment

Forget McDonalds and KFC! Despite London being an expensive travel destination, there are still plenty of places to eat delicious and affordable food – so long as you know where to look. We’ve taken some of the most well-known places selling ‘cheap eats’ and shared a few insider tips about them, so you hungry travelers can fill your bellies for less.

Brick Lane

Famous For: Brick Lane in Shoreditch is worth a visit for many reasons; an abundance of vintage shops, art galleries, and trendy bars make up the very colourful street scene that the area is known for. It’s also famous for its curry – on Brick Lane there is literally restaurant after restaurant selling the stuff. Due to the ferocious competition, it’s easy to really barter with restaurant touts and strike up a good meal deal outside – but be warned! Once you’re inside they will try to add extras on to push up the price of the bill, so stay savvy. Not all curries will be delicious either – stick to restaurants that are full to the rafters or have been recommended.

But you might not know: Although Brick Lane is famous for its 7 –day-a-week curry, on Sundays hundreds of temporary street stalls also sell delicious global cuisine. Cheap and tasty – you can have anything from a hog roast with apple sauce, to an African goat curry, usually for under £5. If you don’t fancy perching on the floor with your grub, then there’s more thrifty global cuisine, plus tables and chairs, in the Boiler House Hall.

Camden Lock Market

Famous For: It’s actually impossible to visit the market at Camden Lock and not have someone try and give you a ‘free taster’ of something. Regular food stalls are constantly trying to push the mainly Asian and Turkish cuisine onto the tourists. Whilst it’s certainly cheap, it also rarely looks very appetizing. Better instead to come back at the weekend – when hundreds of temporary food stalls somehow cram into courtyard. The food keeps its global theme – Spanish Paella, British Pies, Mexican Churros, and Asian noodles – but the quality is much improved.

But you might not know: There is also a little secret place in the market that the tourists haven’t discovered yet. It’s hidden at the bottom of the stairs, in the section selling Vintage and Antiques. It’s a little café that sells home-make cakes and tea from vintage china. You can escape the madness of the market here, sit down next to the book shop, and even have a little tinkle on their piano.

China Town

Famous For: Obviously China Town is famous for its Asian food! You can taste some fantastic stuff here (one meal I’ve eaten involved dipping raw ingredients into hot broth, so you ‘cook’ the meal yourself) but being so near to Leicester Square and the glamorous theatre venues, it’s also very easy to pay an arm and a leg. Stick to the smaller, more unassuming venues for cheaper food. It’s hard to go wrong with something like Dumplings – Jen’s Café specializes in them, and makes them in the window.

But you might not know: Eating out isn’t the only option in London and it’s often cheaper to buy from a local supermarket or food market. If you’re staying in self catering accommodation then it’s worth re-creating the magic of China-town at home – pop into one of the many Chinese supermarkets for your ingredients. Yes, you have to do some cooking yourself, but enjoying some noodles with a bottle of wine, on the couch with the XFactor on the TV, means you will be able to say that you spent an evening like a true Brit!

Amy Heritage provides budget travel tips for thriftyholidays.co.uk.

Filed Under: Europe, Food and Restaurants, UK

For a Dash of Nostalgia Eat at Starlite Diner in Little Rock

July 13, 2011 By Jody Halsted Leave a Comment

We weren’t in Little Rock very long- just a dash in to see a friend graduate from Law School- and then we were on our way home via Eureka Springs. We had promised the girls ice cream for being so patient during the long graduation ceremony, but first we needed (a very late) lunch. We decided to get away from the convention center area- it was quite crowded and we didn’t want to wait- so we hit the road and I started searching for a place to eat on Yelp- which is how we found the Starlite Diner.

Not Your Average Greasy Spoon

Starlite Diner in North LIttle Rock, Arkansas

Shining Exterior of the Starlite Diner

The Starlite Diner has a 50′s dining car vibe from the moment you see its shining aluminum exterior and striped awning. The art on the walls enhances the nostalgia with tattoo art you may have seen on your uncle who was in the Navy- only the colors are much more bold.

Art in the Starlite Diner, North Little Rock, Arkansas

Tattoo Art

With only 8 booths and half a dozen seats at the counter, the Starlite Diner can have a wait during rush times. Our visit took place mid-afternoon; two other booths were being used and we were seated right away.

Fresh Diner Fare

Food at Starlite Diner

While the food at the Starlite Diner can only be called diner fare, the fact that is is fresh- and much of it locally produced- is evident. From the hand cut french fries to the fresh herbs in the omelet, this is food that creates fans and brings them back for more. Our plates came loaded- thankfully we planned for the girls to split a burger! Doug raved about his “Hog” omelet, while the girls and I couldn’t get enough of the fries- crispy on the outside and so white and fluffy inside!

Sitting at the counter

Add in the hand-dipped shakes and hands-on owners Tim and Amy, and the Starlite Diner will leave you craving another visit before you’ve walked out the door.

Filed Under: Food and Restaurants, Midwest, USA

Family Fun in Chicago

April 18, 2011 By Jody Halsted 2 Comments

A Chicago family vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re planning a stop at a more expensive destination- like the Field Museum or Shedd Aquarium- balance it out with fun, free activities.

Explore Millennium Park

Millennium Park is most well known for the Cloud Gate Sculpture- aka “the bean”. And I’ll freely admit that it what drew my family. Though we made an effort to arrive early and- hopefully- beat the crowds it didn’t work out quite that way. Thankfully “the bean” is absolutely massive and there is more than enough space to grab your own photo opp if you’re patient.

Reflected in the Cloud Gate Sculpture (aka "the bean"), Chicago

My family- reflected in "the bean"

You can explore the Cloud Gate sculpture from all sides- including underneath! And be sure to step back and see the Chicago skyline so clearly reflected. It’s really incredible.

Downtown Chicago reflected in the Cloud Gate Sculpture

Though the Cloud Gate sculpture may be what draws so many to Millennium Park, there is much more to see. The Crown Fountain is made of two 50-foot block towers set on either side of a reflecting pool. During the summer you can cool your feet in the water- but watch out for the towers- they spit! Almost as distinctive and eye catching as “the bean” is the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Many events, hosted by the city, are held here. Whether you use a chair or sit on the Great Lawn, there is no charge for city hosted events. Bring a blanket and a picnic basket for an enjoyable, affordable evening. Directly behind the Great Lawn is the Lurie Garden. Though it was bare during our visit we could see the promise of the beauty to come; small purple flowers were already peeking out of the dirt. To the east, the BP Bridge is worth your time. Stroll across the bridge or just take in it’s sinewy lines as it crosses to Daley Bicentennial Plaza. Millennium Park is acres of galleries, promenades and green space that invite you to explore and relax.

Navy Pier- Chicago’s Boardwalk

While Navy Pier is filled with souvenir shops, restaurants, boat tours and amusements there is also much you can do that is free- or costs very little. My eldest was fascinated with the viewing telescopes. For 25¢ you’ll get about 5 minutes with of time- who knows what you’ll see in Lake Michigan? Or stroll to the end of the pier and see just how big a ships anchor really is. It’s a great photo opp.

Caelan wasn't overly thrilled when I asked her to pose...

Another really fun photo opp is the alphabet sculpture.

Unlike Brenna who requests to have her photo taken...

And no visit to Navy Pier is complete without one turn on the Ferris Wheel. A single ride is $6. They do take a souvenir photo before you board, but you can easily skip the booth as you leave if you’re not interested.

Semi-open carriages make this fun on hot or chilly days

Be sure to step inside Festival Hall or one of the most unique- and surprising- free museums you’ll ever find. The Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows adorns the corridors. Thirteen of the windows were created by Louis Comfort Tiffany; others come from local buildings. The history of the windows is given, so far as it is known. My girls were fascinated by these works of art which led to discussions of why they were made, how they were created and where they had been before coming to the museum. This was the best “find” of our trip.

Eat at Ed’s

You’ve got to eat anyway, so why not make it an experience? At Ed Debevic’s you’ll get good food, served with attitude. This is totally touristy- as well as very popular with groups. If you want to miss the crowds go for a late lunch or early dinner. But, to catch the best fun, you’ll want to visit when it’s busy. You’ll catch the most attitude from your servers- and maybe get to see them do a little dance on the counter!

Even the clock has attitude!

Portion sizes are large, the food is good and the shakes are thick. If you plan to save room for one of their amazing desserts share a meal- if your server doesn’t bully you into buying your own. Our server, Vega$, held the attitude to low with us (probably due to the girls’ ages), but really dished it out to the family with teens seated next to us. It’s all part of the fun.

These are just a few fun and affordable ideas of family fun in Chicago. What are your favorite Chicago activities? Share them in the comments!

Looking for an easy, affordable way to get to Chicago? If you’re in the Midwest I recommend MegaBus!

Though it’s not a budget hotel, the Omni Chicago is great for families! Every room is a suite and the central location makes it easy to reach many things you’ll want to do!

Family Vacation
Chicago

Filed Under: Food and Restaurants, Midwest, USA Tagged With: amusement park, Chicago, dining, museum, Water Park

Dinner at 18 Oaks at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa

October 24, 2010 By Jody Halsted 3 Comments

During our stay at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa Doug and I were treated to a meal I won’t soon forget. Our final evening at the resort was adults only; the girls were happily playing at Range Riders Kids Club and enjoying their own versions of a perfect meal (which, we found out later was cheeseburger and fries for one and PB&J with a side of fruit for the other).

The menu at 18 Oaks, located in the Club House overlooking two TPC golf courses, prides itself on the freshest food available, most of it grown locally. Our server, John, told us tales of the chefs refusing food because it didn’t meet their standards and of incredible edibles simply because “the chefs like to try new things”.

It can be difficult for me to write about food as, often, simple adjectives are not nearly expressive enough to describe our meal. I’m going to share photos of our meal and a few thoughts. I hope I can convey how wonderful the meal was. And please forgive the photos- I took them with my phone.

Fresh Shrimp and Fresh Grated Horseradish

I adore fresh shrimp. And shrimp like these are a bit dear in Iowa, so I savored them. I requested the fresh grated horseradish to accompany them. These were big, meaty shrimp which could have, easily, been a meal unto themselves had Doug not been there to share with me.

Fresh Rolls and Beef Jerky

Shortly after our shrimp arrived this plate of warm rolls came out. The beef jerky had been made in the kitchen- one of those “new things” the chefs like to try. Oh, my, was it good! I told John, our waiter, how much I enjoyed it- and he brought out two small containers for us to take home.

Choose Your Weapon

After we placed our meal order we were given a chance to choose our “weapon”. It was fun to be presented with steak knife options; a bit of pomp and circumstance, if you will.

Beet and Rocket Salad

Before our entrées arrived John was back with this “delight” from the kitchen: beet and rocket salad with goat cheese. Now, I don’t normally find beets to be delightful unless my grandmother has pickled them beyond their earthy taste, but these were so nicely marinated and still held a crispiness. Though I could still taste the “beet” I thought they were rather yummy. In case rocket lettuce sounds odd to you… it’s arugula. (I just think “rocket” is more fun!)

By this time Doug and I had eaten more than we had planned on. We had gone in planning to eat light as we had been in San Antonio for a week- and Tex Mex is mighty filling! I had actually ordered sea food because we had eaten rather heavily all week.

Grilled Diver Scallops with Jalapeño Honey

There are no words for the pleasure I felt when I tasted this. I adore scallops (which are also very dear to buy in Iowa) and was thrilled to see them on the menu. The sweet glaze with a kick of jalapeño was incredible. And the scallops were huge- I would guess 2 to 3 ounces each!

Filet Mignon

Doug ordered a steak- which is the proper thing to order in a steak house, after all. The steaks come from a local ranch and are grass fed. It was so tender that Doug really didn’t need his awesome steak knife to cut it. The steaks are offered with one of 6 sauces- or, if you ask nicely, all six. After trying them all Doug chose the chimmichurri as his favorite while I deferred to the horseradish.

Side Dishes

The side dishes at 18 Oaks, while not traditionally “family style” are large enough to share between two or three people. We had quite a few options and took a few minutes to settle on the Goat Cheese Au Gratin and Truffled Cream Corn.

Now we were full. We had decided not to order dessert as we had plans to take the girls to the evening smores toasting . And then John told us that the chef was sending out a few treats for our pleasure.

Dessert Trio

One word. Decadent. The Jack Daniels Chocolate Custard with biscotti was thick and rich; the Italian Sweet Breads, which tasted like a grown up version of funnel cakes, were served with three fruit sauces and practically melted in our mouths; and the Sour Cream Torte with Marscarpone cheese… I have no words. I requested the recipe and hope to, one day, serve this in my own home. According to John the chefs are happy to share their recipes if you will leave your request and email.

This was just too much food for us to even attempt to finish. John happily boxed what he could for us and we enjoyed biscotti, Italian Sweet Bread and Sour Cream Torte for breakfast the next morning!

If you have the opportunity to eat at 18 Oaks at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa I highly recommend it! Between the incredible quality of the food and the amazing service you will enjoy a meal you will remember for years.

18 Oaks is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Disclosure: Our meal was provided compliments of the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa. Images and thoughts are my own.

San Antonio Vacations

Filed Under: Food and Restaurants Tagged With: golf, Marriott, resort, San Antonio, Texas

Eating Around the Happiest Place on Earth

May 4, 2010 By Jody Halsted 12 Comments

While my culinary trip to Walt Disney World began and ended with travel trials, what happened in between was truly magical. The fine folks at Disney made me feel like a princess and I can’t thank them enough for the opportunity!

Because my trip was a “culinary tour” it began, rightfully so, with a few “little” gifts in my amazing room at the Boardwalk Inn and Resort.

A huge basket of fruit, a bottle of wine, a bottle of Evian and a “cooking with Mickey” gift set. Oh, and a box of truffles. What a welcome!

It wasn’t until the next morning that I discovered the cheese plate in the refrigerator.

Because of my flight delay and the subsequent missed connection I completely missed the events of the first day. I arrived in my room, wiped the airplane off me as best I could, changed clothes and headed straight to Raglan Road in Downtown Disney for a pint of Magners and some fish & chips. The live Irish music helped wash away the day; the Magners didn’t hurt either. It’s much like my beloved Kansas City pub, just larger.

Returning to my room I found the turn down service delightful, with a nostalgic card and salt water taffy.

The next morning featured a character breakfast at Cape May at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club. The buffet was beautiful and has something for everyone: fresh fruit, a yogurt bar, pastries, egg dishes, biscuits & gravy, and, of course, mini Mickey waffles. Yum! We were visited by Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse and Goofy.

After breakfast we had a tour of one of the rooms at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club and learned about the Disney Vacation Club. While the vacation club isn’t an option for my family I can see how it is nice for some families. I really appreciated that the rooms are also available to non-club members. The 2-bedroom suite we toured had a kitchen and the resort amenities. It’s a great option for families.

Then it was off to the Magic Kingdom. We caught the street parade, wandered through the park, rode the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and did some shopping.

Our group split up then; I headed over to Epcot®, which ended up being where I spent much of my free time as the Epcot® Interntional Flower and Garden Festival was going on. And wanted to wander through the “world”.

I didn’t have a lot of time as we had dinner reservations at Fort Wilderness Resort for the Hoop-Dee-Doo Review; a “campfire” dinner and show. Apparently the show hasn’t changed since its inception 35 years ago! It was good, campy fun with “campfire” food served on tin plates.

After dinner our group set off for Epcot. With an hour of free time a few of us rode Soarin (what a sensory experience!) before our dessert party at the United Kingdom Pavilion with front row seats for IllumiNations, the nightly fireworks extravaganza. Eclairs, brownies, chocolate dipped strawberries and more were offered with a bevy of beverages.

IllumiNations went well beyond your typical fireworks show, it was really incredible and difficult to put into words.

After such a full day I was exhausted so I returned to my room while the rest of the group went to Jellyrolls. And I found this (pardon the photo taken with my phone):

Yes, milk and three. huge. cookies. Along with the wonderful turn down service. Can you say “food coma”.

The dining adventure continued the next morning at Kouzzinna by Cat Cora. A wonderful Mediterranean twist to breakfast. I enjoyed the Kouzzinna Stack: Two Poached Eggs, Kalamata Olive toast, Artichoke Spread and Sweet potato Hash with choice of Bacon or Chicken Sausage.

With that meal the culinary tour officially ended. I said goodbye to the other attendees, headed to my room, packed and walked back to Epcot. I wandered through the World Showcase at a more leisurely pace, had lunch at Sommerfest in German: brat with saurkraut, Black Forest roulade and Fanta.

I did my gift shopping at Epcot and along the Boardwalk. With one meal voucher left- and a long night of travel ahead- I made a final stop at the Boardwalk Bakery for dinner “to go”: Mozzarella and tomato on focaccia and a Mickey muffin.

You can see that Walt Disney World has a wide variety of food; definitely something for every palate. I’ll be following up over the next couple of weeks with more detailed posts. It was definitely a whirl-wind weekend; I look forward to taking my family in the future and enjoying more of what Walt Disney World has to offer.

Disclosure: This trip was part of a Disney Media event. My transportation, lodging and meals were provided by Disney. All photos and thoughts are my own.

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Filed Under: Florida, Food and Restaurants, USA

Disney- Here I Come!

April 20, 2010 By Jody Halsted Leave a Comment

Early Friday morning I will leave my family to their dreams and board a plane for the “Happiest Place on Earth’. Now, the irony of this trip isn’t lost on me… When I began sharing family travel tips online back in 2005 it was because the only information I could find was about family trips to Disney (or other “kid friendly” places). That said, I’m looking forward to my adventure.

I’m not sure yet what to expect but I did get a few hints…

The theme is “From 5 Stars to Mickey Bars”. It’s all about the food.

I’ll be staying here:

Dinner will be around the Boardwalk and Epcot Friday evening. (I’m very excited about Epcot- it’s what I most want to experience!)

Saturday morning will begin with a character breakfast at Cape May at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Dinner that night will be the dinner show Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at The Campsites at Fort Wilderness Resort.

Sunday’s breakfast is back at the Boardwalk at Kouzzina by Cat Cora.

All I know, beyond that, is that I’ll get park tickets, FASTPASSES and meal vouchers.

I’ll be taking pictures and sending out notes all weekend. If you want to follow the journey in “real time” I have a few suggestions:

We’ll be using #DisneyMedia on Twitter; you’ll be able to follow all of us attending the event. (If you aren’t following me yet I’m @iatraveler.)

If you aren’t on Twitter (and don’t want to be) become a fan of the new Family Rambling Fan Page as I’ll post photos and quick notes there, too! Click the button below to become a fan!
Family Rambling: tips and destinations from a traveling family | Promote your Page too

Now tell me… If I have free time what shouldn’t I miss?

Filed Under: Florida, Food and Restaurants, USA Tagged With: food, Walt Disney World