mmm-yoso!!!

Where in the world are we?

In case you're wondering where the Missus and I are. We're in the midst of a month long vacation...longer than we've ever taken before. So, of course we started with a couple of nights in our favorite city and started things off with coffee at our favorite "people watching cafe".

The weather was wonderful.

And we got to visit a place we'd had on our "list" for a while.

We had two dinners, the first was of the Michelin, prefix menu type.

The other....well, I think the photo says it all......

We then headed off by train to our next stop. An interesting city of contrasts. Founded in the Middle Ages, there are medieval streets snaking its way through out the old town.

Along with a wonderful main square.

One of the oldest universities in the world was founded here in 1220. And to this day a good amount of the population are students. So, there's also a very modern vibe to the city as well.

And some interesting architecture.

With a very relaxed, genial vibe throughout.

Our meals were quite varied here. Ranging from some pretty good and well-priced ethnic cuisine.

To fine dining.

Speaking of medieval cities. That was out next stop on our journey a city topped by a fortress that dates back to 100BC. 

It was quite interesting.

Sadly, the top 4 restaurants I had on my list were closed. Apparently places close around this time because things slow down a bit. I never came across that in my research. On the positive side; there weren't very many tourists around and we found the locals to be a hoot!

And we obviously didn't starve.

And the region is known for a specific dish that I make at home, so the Missus was eager to see how my cooking matches up.

You couldn't beat the views here.

We then headed to the fourth largest city in this country. The city is known as "La Ville Rose" due to the local pink bricks which form many of the structures.

There's not much in the way of travel guides to this city; which we enjoyed.

Our hotel was located right on the main square where the Christmas Market was going on.

That's the view from our window!

Our location made getting to and from the train station a snap and we did a quick day trip to one of the outlying villages as well.

We had some nice meals, but due to timing and other things (no online reservations) we'll need to return to try some places. That said, we had some good meals.

And had some traditional dishes as well.

The city is not very touristy, at least in terms of Americans, a fact we really enjoyed. The place was quite lively with folks enjoying weekend and evening socializing, something that people here have made into an art form.

It did rain while we were here, but then, the evening after the rain we took an evening stroll, and it was beautiful.

And now, we're at our final destination....well sort of, as we have a short overnight stay planned. We're enjoying things and hope all is well with you!

Thanks for stopping by!

Carnitas Uruapan (again)

Thanks for stopping to read mmm-yoso!!!, a blog about food.  Cathy is writing today, while Kirk and His Missus are busy, elsewhere.

When I first started helping Kirk on this blog, my eighth post as well as this post in 2012, and a mention in 2015 along with a few interspersed mentions of Carnitas Uruapan have been irregularly mentioned.  The nearby location, quality of food and consistency over the years is comforting and writing about this family owned 30+ year institution seems unnecessary.  Being able to make it through Covid-19 is an attestation to the qualities mentioned.  It's time for an update. That's the "Drive Up" window; there is no speaker or place to order before getting to the window.  The entrance is just alongside that wall; it's small.
 Step inside, order, pay and find a seat.  Four booths and  three tables with chairs inside as well as tables outside and under the canopy.  Again, small.  
 During the waning down of Covid-19, we could eat inside, but the meal "meal for two" was served in a in a 'to go' container ($14.50).
 Rice, beans, one pound of carnitas (deep fried pork), warm corn tortillas.  Of course, cilantro, onion, tomatoes and limes are the perfect condiments.
 Now that things are back to "normal", the 'Carnitas for Two" is served on plates and just seems to taste better.
  My current favorite item which satisfies a craving is the Maggi Burrito ($8.50) (carnitas, chicharron, whole beans, guacamole and pico de Gallo).  The crunch of the chicharron with each bite of flavorful shredded pork and everything else (you can taste each ingredient; no one flavor overpowers the other) is so balanced and satisfying.
  Another order when I want something different is the #9, Enchiladas Suizas ($12.50)
 Chicken- lots of shredded chicken- wrapped in corn tortillas topped with Swiss cheese and a creamy green salsa (not the same green salsa as you get to go with a taco or burrito). 

More than a taco shop.
 When ordering, the final item-not to eat here, but 'to go' is always a 1/2 pound of chicharron ($4.50) which is cooked fresh.  Such a treat!

Carnitas Uruapan 4233 Spring Street La Mesa 91941 (858)328-3541 Website Open Daily 9-9

Tofu House Mira Mesa (again)

mmm-yoso!!! is back again on this chilly day.  Kirk is busy with His Missus on another continent and Cathy is writing another post.  

My last post about Tofu House was in 2020 when we had to eat outside, because, you know, Covid-19.    The menu is on the wall, or you can scan a QR code and read the menu on your phone. 

 The Mister wanted Boiled Tofu, and it was furiously boiling when brought to the table!  He had ordered the 'Chef's Special' ($13) which included shrimp, pollack roe, clam, oyster, mushroom and kimchi.  (white rice is included, but the multigrain rice option is an extra $2; get it).  Great, fresh seafood and smooth, satisfying tofu.
 I've been craving something from a hot stone pot (because crispy rice).  Ordering the "Chef's Special Hot Stone" ($20) was just the flavor filled melange I wanted.  Marinated beef rib eye as well as beef short ribs over the sizzling rice, topped with plump shrimp and small but flavorful scallops really hit the spot. 

A flavor filled, warming and satisfying lunch.  This location has a better parking situation than the Convoy Street location.

Tofu House 9089 Mira Mesa Boulevard San Diego 92126 (858) 860-5296 Open daily 11-8 website
 Your condiments are brought to the table after ordering. 

Hanaoka (revisit)

mmm-yoso!!! welcomes you back with another post about food.  Cathy is writing this one while Kirk is relaxing.

I posted about Hanaoka in 2018, before Covid.  We've been re-visiting favorite locally owned places when we are in the area and see they are open.

Since January 6, 1986, Hanaoka has been a favorite Japanese spot in National City.  Located just West of the 805 on Sweetwater Road, the stand alone building has plenty of surrounding parking.

 The interior decor is timeless.
 We decided to share an order of mixed tempura ($7.95).  Not at all oily, the batter was a little hard/crisp and acted as a protectant for the vegetables and shrimp; everything was moist and flavored of itself; not the batter.  The tempura sauce was a perfect blend of soy sauce, dash and mirin-bright and 'crisp' in flavor. 
   Having really enjoyed the Ten Zaru Soba ordered a few months ago at the newly opened Kumi Cafe, I thought ordering it here (on this hot day) would make a nice comparison ($12.95).  Also, chilled buckwheat noodles are now a craving; I have found that my blood sugar does not 'spike' when I eat these noodles, satisfying a craving.  Our waiter mentioned this was 'the most Japanese item on the menu' when I ordered and he 'presented this plate to me with "Meshiagare" ('Bon appetit').  (I did respond with 'itadakimasu').  Wow, the chilled soba was so flavored of buckwheat, having a bite of seaweed with the plain noodles was perfect.  Dipping the noodles in the soy based dipping sauce elevated the flavors and then grabbing some of the green onions and wasabi was a perfect crescendo of flavors.  Truly excellent.  The two tempura battered shrimp were another texture-diversion from everything else, rounding out the meal. 
 The Mister chose to order from the Lunch Special Combo menu.  This is #16, Beef Teriyaki and Gyoza.  All lunch specials come with miso soup, rice and salad.  It was a nice soup (not salty).  The beef was very tender, well marbled and had a good flavor without the (house made) teriyaki sauce.  The gyoza were nice with a thin wrapper and fresh vegetable and pork filling.  The soy based dipping sauce was not the same as the noodle dipping sauce on my plate.  

Always a nice visit with quality food which has withstood the test of time (and Covid-19).

 Hanaoka Japanese Restaurant 1528 Sweetwater Road, Suite C National City 91950 (619) 477-5173 Website Open Mon-Thurs 11-3, 5-9:30 Fri, Sat 11-9:30, Sun 11-9

Chicken Charlie's Table (Rancho Bernardo)

mmm-yoso!!! is being written by Cathy today.  Kirk and His Missus are on vacation.

 The former Bistro Louisa  closed around the time of the pandemic, eventually re-opening as Chicken Charlie's Table, a second/different named location of Chicken Charlie's Fry BQ (which ended up also closing during the pandemic) and now the Table is the only sit-down restaurant related to the 'infamous' County Fair Chicken Charlie booths. 
 The sleek interior is utilized well, along with outdoor seating.
 There are a few nods to the County Fair painted discretely on the walls.
 The menu is extensive enough, many adult beverages are offered.  There is a daily special listed on Facebook, or you can ask when you are seated.  
 On this day, the special was Fish and Chips ($14) (substitute tots $1). (Regular price of fish and chips is $18.75).
 Good size (4 ounce) pieces of fish, expertly fried in a crisp, light batter so the fish was cooked well but still flaky (not rubbery; a fault I find with some fish and chips orders).  The tots were quite nice, also fried to a nice crunch. 
 As soon as I saw a beet salad ($14.74) on the menu, I knew that was going to be my order.  I added grilled chicken for $5.  Red and yellow beets (plenty), Feta cubes, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber and onion on lettuce.  A very good portion of grilled chicken.  This was a filling meal.  

Saturday and Sunday include breakfast choices (and specials).  Good food, good people.

Chicken Charlie's Table 12457 Rancho Bernardo Road San Diego 92128 (858) 432-1202 Website Closed Monday.  Open Tues-Thurs 11:30-8, Fri 11:30-9, Sat 9-9, Sun 9-8


 

Paris (2022) - Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond

We'd had a pretty busy day. And then I got the notice that our flight time had changed to very early in the morning. I had reservations about getting up at 4am, then managing to get to CDG for our early flight. So, much like what I did on a previous visit, I went and booked a night at the Sheraton in CDG Terminal 2. We'd have dinner and what not, then vacate the apartment, heading to the airport via the RER arriving around 9pm or so.

While having our no-so-good dinner at Pirouette, we noticed another place in the square was doing some major business. I looked up the place; named Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond, in case you don't know, a Bouillon (like the broth) is traditionally a restaurant that serves traditional French meals, for good prices, that serves the working class. We think of it as kind of a "diner", but with definite French touches as most Bouillons have wonderful, traditional decor. In recent years the Bouillon has been making a comeback in Paris. I had been eager to check one out and here was the opportunity. Plus, Pharamond is open from noon to midnight daily; making a very non-Parisian dinner at 530pm a possibility. Plus, we'd beat all the dinner crowds.

We managed to just walk in a snag a table with no problem. We loved the decor of the place.

And lest you think it was only tourists eating that this hour; I present this gentleman.

He strolled in, took a table, knew all the staff, never needed a menu and they just brought him his dinner. There are many apartments in the area, so perhaps he lives in one of them?

We each ordered one entree and one plat.

The Missus started with the Terrine et Poulet (6,9 € - $7.25/US).

This as quite nice; tender, great balanced offal flavors with a hint of sweetness.

I got the Bone Marrow (6,5 € - $6.75/US)

Simply seasoned with sea salt, this was so buttery and beefy. It was heaven with the baguette.

Speaking of the bone marrow; one couple saw a gentleman and his friendly pooch having an apero at one of the outdoor tables. They asked and got permission for this 70 kilo (we asked) sweetheart to get his own "entree".

For Her plat, the Missus ordered the Andouilette Grillee - the grilled sausage (11,5 € - $12/US)

The sausage had a nice "snap" with a herby-garlicky flavor. The jus had just the right amount of salt for our taste and those mashed potatoes were quite  nice.

I got the Beef Tartare (11,9 €, $12.40 US).

  Man, this was much better than I expected. The beef, while perhaps chopped a bit more finely than I like was nicely chilled, with a clean finish, loved the ratio of capers and scallions to beef. But the most surprising thing were the frites, which were crisp outside and creamy inside.

Service was efficient and fast. Man, to think that this dinner with wine was around $45 US....and remember, this is France, where the 15% service fee is included (not added) in the pricing.

We'll definitely check out more Bouillons when we're wanting a more traditional French meal in Paris.

Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond
24 Rue de la Grande Truanderie
75001 Paris, France

After dinner we decided to take a nice stroll past all those familiar places.

Traveling has changed me a bit.....and for some reason France has as well. When walking past the Louvre I saw this Nona struggling to get up on one of the stone photo thingies outside the Louvre.

I'm not sure why; but I decided to "lend my shoulders" to the effort.

Which was a success and we all go a good laugh out of it.

I hope she made it down safely!

There's something about Paris that we love. We can't really put our collective fingers on it. It's vibrant, full of surprises, excellent food, and also there are those other moments.

I'm not sure where I read it; but the city still defines itself as a conglomerate of "villages".....

And a beautiful one at that!

Ah Paris, we can't wait to return!

Thanks for stopping by!

Paris (2022) - Menkicchi Ramen

On our last day in Paris, we started the day by heading to our favorite cafe for people watching on Rue Montorgueil to start things out.

We love sitting here and watching the world go by.

Once we had completed our "Montorgueil ritual" we headed off to the 2nd and did some shopping. On the way we stopped by Galerie Vivienne, which I think is one of the most beautiful of the existing Covered Passages in Paris.

We did a bunch of shopping in the 2nd, but my credit card came out unscathed!

While heading back to the apartment on Rue des Petits Champs, the area I've heard folks call "Paris's Little Tokyo", the Missus was feeling like some ramen. I'm not sure what it is about Paris, but we enjoy grabbing a bowl of here once in a while. I'd heard about a newish shop that made their own noodles called Menkicchi nearby, so we headed down Rue Sainte-Anne and found the rather discreet shop.

This tiny shop would not be out of place in Japan. Oh, and the fragrances wafting in the air; it all seemed so right.

As we often do when getting ramen; we ordered a bowl, in this case the Shio Tonkotsu and a rice bowl, the Shisen Don.

    The noodles were really good, doughy and chewy. The tamago was cold, but nicely cooked and marinated. The chashu was on the tough side and needed more flavor.

Speaking of needing more flavor; the tonkotsu broth was quite thin and not rich enough and the flavor very weak....another soup made with the "wave method" it seems.

The pork rice bowl was quite tasty and the rice was decently cooked as well.

The pork was nicely marinated and fairly tender. Good soy-sweetness.

I'm guessing the ramen here is all about the noodles. Speaking of all about the noodles. While we were eating, a younger, dapper Japanese gentleman entered the restaurant, he took the table next to us and fairly soon we knew he was a Japanese national. First, he ordered ramen along with a bowl of rice on the side. Second, when he started on his ramen...oohhhh the slurping! Such great memories of Japan. Then it must have suddenly struck him. No one else in the place was slurping. After all, this is Paris! You could just tell by how he raised his head that this was his "Toto, we're not in Kansas Kansai anymore moment!" I felt kinda bad for him. So, I decided to go for it and started slurping away. And he smiled and tucked in! The brotherhood of ramen, right? And all was good on Rue Sainte-Anne on this day!

Menkicchi
41 Rue Sainte-Anne
75001 Paris, France

Thanks for stopping by!

Paris (2022) - Edwart Chocolatier and Dinner at Le MaZenay

On the way back from lunch we passed this chocolate shop. We were given samples and the Missus ended up buying a variety of items.

This was Edwart Chocolatier and would end up being Her favorite chocolate shop during this trip.

Edwart Chocolatier
17 Rue Vieille-du-Temple
75004 Paris

So I'm certain we'll return the next time we're in Paris.

We then worked our way back to the apartment stopping at a few shops along the way. This was back in May so the days were fairly long.

We headed out for our dinner destination at bit early...the better to do some shopping you know. As we headed up Rue St Denis we came across a couple of women, probably in their 40's-50's, tons of make-up, dressed somewhat provocatively, just standing around. From which this short conversation arose....

Me: "Hmmm.....must be the remnants of the old Saint Denis" (It used to be the Red Light district but is now gentrified)
Missus: "No, way...maybe they are hairdressers taking a break"
Me: "But I see no salons around here...."
Missus: "Maybe they're taking a smoke break from work."
Me: "But none of them are smoking..." 

Bless Her heart....

For dinner I had made reservations at Le MaZenay, a modernish bistro, located in the Marais.

The setting was quite simple and the service friendly.

As with how we typically order, we ended up getting 3 entrees and one plat, with a side.

The Missus really enjoyed the Ouef Confit.

The buttery, creamy egg yolk went so well with the petit pois, which brought a nice, mild sweetness to the dish. The sauce, made with creme fraiche was lighter than it looked and went well with the dish. The croutons added texture.

I got the Tartare de Veau and when it arrived totally drenched in sauce, I was a bit hesitant.

It was still a bit too much sauce, which was nicely flavored. The cut of the protein was to my liking, the meat was tender, and it was chilled well.

We enjoyed the rustic Chicken Liver Terrine.

The rustic terrine wasn't overly offal-ish, had a mild sweetness and went well with the cornichons. It had a pleasant texture and there seemed to be mashed potato in the terrine as well. This was a lot milder in flavor than we expected.

For the main, we chose one of the specials of the evening, the Skate Wing.

   A very pleasant dish. The skate had been nicely prepared, buttery in texture, good black pepper, though perhaps a bit more salt would have helped. Very moist and tender. The accompanying veggies were fine and the caper butter sauce did well with the fish.

We also ordered the Pommes Dauphines which were excellent, crisp on the outside, light and fluffy inside.

This was a nice meal and like I mentioned earlier, the service was quite friendly. At the table next to us sat two women who seemed to be regulars, the chef and his wife, who runs the front of house came out to chat with them. The women were from London and arrived via the Eurostar. Something I'd like to do in the future!

Le MaZenay
46 Rue de Montmorency
75003 Paris, France

It was a nice evening and we took our time heading back to the apartment.

Tomorrow would be our last day in Paris before heading home and we wanted to make the best of it.