Friday, February 20, 2009
Open Thread Empty Plate: Open Thread for the Filling!
Posted by Jim Ridley on Fri, Feb 20, 2009 at 8:00 AM
Time now for Bites' weekly open thread, where the joker's wild and the topic is anything you choose. Been anyplace interesting? Had any success (or lack thereof) with new recipes, new restaurants, new foods? Who's your favorite bartender? What's a place you can't wait to visit that you've never tried before? What's a place you're never going again? Feel free to raise anything that's on your mind.
And as always, if you have news, tips, gripes or gossip you don't want to share with the entire board, send them to cfox (at) nashvillescene (dot) com.
Comments (45)
Showing 1-45 of 45
Ate for the 3rd time at Pad Thai on Woodland. Very good food and an extremely nice owner. I had the Red Curry at #4 in spiciness. Mmmmm.
like
dislike
Has anybody tried the Chicago Style Italian Beef place on Nolensville Road? I can't believe no one in Nashville has a real deep dish pizza! No one I've found, that is.
went to hot kabobs
had the eggplant stuff jack likes
it was good - lots of slow caramelized onions and eggplant - but like not toe curling. the flatbread was dry, tasteless and cold. the lamb kabob was fine. cary got that cranberry rice stuff - it was ok. all to say that i'd still rather eat at kalamatas. i realize there's a persian edge at hot kabobs but i just didn't think they nailed it on any level. the baklava was crazy dry and the ice cream was good - just tasted like a premium vanilla with pistachios in it.
so we tried it!
next...
Well - it says "3 comments" but when I hit to read them, there is only one displayed.
MY comment is -- do any of you foodies watch Top Chef? Any thoughts on the odds of the Nashvillian (Carla) making it to the Top this year?
Please get the ice cream if you're at Hot Kebobs. I got it for the first time this week...as an appetizer, and it blew my mind right away. I certainly didn't see it as vanilla with pistachios. Mine had some sort of spice, which I think is mentioned on the menu but I can't remember what it was, which made it unique to the ice creams I've had throughout life.
Deep Dish Pie,
check out this week's Friday Night Slice.
http://www.ulikafoodblog.com/2009/02/friday-night-slice-part-4.html
unfortunately it was not a great experience.
Claudia,
It’s unfortunate that we do not have an Afghan restaurant in Nashville. Their food trumps Iranian/Persian food in every possible way. I’ve found the lamb at Hot Kabobs to have no reasoning at all, mild and bland. I would love if some the readers could try Kabuli Palow.. a basmati rich dish made with carrots, pistachios, various seasonings, and lamb or chicken. It's probably the single most popular Afghan dish.
I will never understand why so many ethnic restaurants dumby down their food to suit so called american pallets.
Obviously the greatest offender of this are mexican restaurants. But one time I was in a place that claimed to be Morrocan influenced and ordered a dish that was suppose to be roasted with ras el hanout spice rub and it was the most bland thing I've ever tasted.
Went to Allium - GREAT service and wine, good food, but what's up with the horrible flourescent lighting around the perimeter of the room? Sitting in a banquette, I felt like I was in my office - which surprisingly isn't what I'm looking for on a Friday night.
Savarino's for lunch on Saturday - bad atmosphere, bad attitude from the staff, bad sandwich. And expensive to boot.
Re: Top Chef - I didn't know Carla was from Nashville! She's totally grown on me and I think she might have a shot.
a couple o' three tings I's gots to say:
1.) I agree on PadThai Kitchen...good, solid Thai in East Nashville, a godsend for us East Siders.
2.) Deep Dish: Steve Haruch, our music editor, raves about the Chicago beef place on Nolensville. And is quite the foodie, so I'm hankering to try it.
3.) Can't speak for everything on the menu, but the kubideh at Hot Kabobs is da bomb! Check it out next time.
Stepford Wife - I don't believe there is an auto refresh feature on these pages, so, speaking of my own experiences only, when I go to a page I have previously visited, it will not automatically show me what's new. I have to manually refresh my browser page, which for my browser can be done either by selecting the refresh button in the toolbar, right-clicking in the page and selecting refresh from the context-sensitive menu that pops up, or, my fave, the Ctrl-R method - holding down the Ctrl button while hitting the R letter.
same is true for the main page - to see if there's a new story, you may have to refresh it yourself.
Susan-
Thanks for the comments and I agree with you on the lights. I am already on it. The flourescents have been a thorn since we opened. After much searching and experimentation, I have settled on a sleeve to dim them. They should be fixed by next weekend...
"Has anybody tried the Chicago Style Italian Beef place on Nolensville Road?"
Yeah, I have. It's next to the aquarium megastore.
I've only had the Italian beef (with fries), "wet" with the giardiniera. If it were in Chicago, it would be a pretty ordinary Italian beef sandwich, but since it's the genuine article, it's in the top two in Nashville. (Hot Diggety Dog's is pretty good, but unlike your typical Chicago Italian beef sandwich, it's not about three times more than you can manage to eat).
The fries were pretty crummy, but with all that bread and beef and jus and pepper, I couldn't eat the fries anyhow. And their menu is very long-- Italian and Mediterranean food, basically.
"the Garden Years says:
I will never understand why so many ethnic restaurants dumby down their food to suit so called American pallets"
The simple answer is that this has been going on in Nashville since Kobe had to start serving ketchup for red dipping sauce back in the '70s.
The problem is that people make demands of restaurants that the restaurants are afraid to refuse for fear of losing business and ultimately the restaurant gives up on the real thing because they are simply sick and tired of hearing complaints. The food gets dumber and dumber.
The answer is...support restaurants that serve good and in cases of ethnic eating, authentic food. tell them you care and you want it right.
It's ultimately up to the consumer.
Personally I like Hot Kabobs b/c I can get Fesenjan, which no other restaurant in town seems to have, but the other half likes House of Kabob better.
Claudia I agree with you that the flatbread isn't fabulous at Hot Kabobs.
Anonymous-I'm with you on Afghan food, we have the most fabulous Afghan restaurant at home in NJ, it's a weekly affair when I'm up there.
amybakes: You can get fessenjoon (I'm assuming it's the same or similar) at Parisa on Nolensville Rd. I've had it and it's very good. I haven't tried it at Hot Kabobs, so I can't compare.
Susan, not sure what you had at Savarino's, but much of the Scene staff (particularly myself) feels that they have the best sandwiches in town. Find me anything to top a Frank Dileo (Italian sausage and broccoli rabe) or the Ed Pontieri (Mortadella, hot soprasatta, hot coppicolla, cherry pepper, etc.). Sure, they're 9 bucks, but they outclass anything I've found in town.
Fast service is not their specialty. With that I will agree. But I can think of no place I'd rather hang out, relax and enjoy a meal. I love the folks there, employees and customers alike. For me it's like a big family, and the food is great to boot.
I've had fesenjan (sp?) at both hot kabobs and Parisa, and they were both very good. I'd give the slight edge to Parisa, but it was a while ago. But people, puhleeeze try the kubideh at Hot Kabobs! It rocks.
Sally, when I went to Parisa's, it was nearly empty. Are they getting much business?
Jack, Parisa always seems pretty empty every time I've gone over the past few years. However, I've heard it can get pretty packed on Friday nights when the bellydancer is there (understandably). Last time I went, about a month ago, they had a new waiter - someone other than the owner or one of his family members. So it makes me think they are still doing ok.
Have to disagree with Susan on Savarino's. Absolutely love it, and don't go there for the ambience or service. Just the food, about which I have no complaints and much praise. I nearly fell off my chair the first time I had the pizza. But agree Susan, would go there more if they can make it a place to stay a while (and get a wine/beer license).
Speaking of service, went to Eastland Cafe (which I also give high marks and unending gratitude), but on this night had pretty rough service, sadly (this was Thursday night, if anyone is listening). There seemed to be about a pound of cheese in the french onion soup of the colleague we flew in from Nebraska...on the other hand, my iceberg/blue cheese wedge was heavenly perfection.
So I'm sick as a dog with some flu / inconsistent weather / offic bug sickness, but decided to visit Zaxby's in Franklin today. Never been to Zax's before, so I had really high hopes. It seemed to resemble Chick-Fil-A quite a bit, especially with the size and consistency of their chicken tenders. The restaurant was nice and clean, but still didn't do anything for me. Makes me wish I stopped off at McDougal's instead of driving down to Hillsboro Rd.
zaxby's is dull... and i don't like any place that charges extra for damn dipping sauce.
Susanna, Aspetti un momento
Savarino's Cucina ia a true anomaly in the modern day restaurant world. It seeks to provide one thing, and one thing only, truly authentic Sicilian cucina caslinga.(home cooking)
Maria Grazia, does all the cooking, Corrado, does all the baking, and the kids try their best to assist and wait on customers, while doing homework, texting friends, and generally just being kids. It's no easy task, being a real Mom and Pop business in a world of chain restaurants, and Food Network wannabe chef's. Especially in a somewhat affluent town, where everyone thinks they know what good food is all about and yet votes Pizza Hut the best pizza in town.(the sound you just heard was my wife's Neapolitan Nonna rolling over in her grave)
While everyones tastes do indeed vary, hence limburger cheese for some and Duck Blood soup for others, I've never had a sandwich or an entree at the Cucina that wasn't OUTSTANDING! I'm sorry (mi dispiace) that your experience wasn't the same.
If you ever do stop by again, and notice a group of gentlemen drinking wine and talking in the corner, please introduce yourself, share a glass of wine, and join the conversation. Either Al, Mike, Frank, Nick, Felix, Joe, or myself will gladly buy you lunch and give you an education on Italian food that Mario Batali wishes he knew. Bring a lamb, and I'll make capuzzelle for you.
Tanti Auguri
Ed
P.S. Savarino's can NOT get a wine or beer license due to a single family home being less than 100 feet from his back door. Customers are always welcome to bring their own wine. It's cheaper for the customer in the long run as the corkage fee is only $3.00.
P.S.S. When you visit Italia try and stay in an Agriturismo in the Sicilian countryside. Ask your hosts if they can take you out early for fresh ricotta. While the atmosphere in an old barn isn't the most glamorous, the fresh cheese wil be the only proof you need to know that God loves Mankind, and isn't that the most important thing after all?
Questo e tutto
Visited Mikado last night with a large party. I just don't understand how they can charge so much for sub par food. I've never been crazed over the Japanese steak house concept. It was a friends bday and she quite enjoyed the experience. I guess that's all that matters in the end....
This week took me to Back to Cuba, where I'd never been. Good food on the whole, though the tostones had no flavor at all and they were out of the Cubano sandwich, which was the whole reason I went. But the guy behind the counter steered me the right way and I left happy, even though I think restaurants should never ever use the word "chunks" to describe food.
Also, Miss Saigon twice this week - it seems a shame to not go there when I shop for books at McKay. I'm still surprised at how fancy they made it inside but I don't think the food has suffered. Thanks to whoever it was here who mentioned the lemongrass chicken; I was in a beef rut there but mmm, the chicken was good.
The Ed Pontieri? Inventor of the Ed Pontieri sandwich? Sir, you are responsible for some of my happiest moments.
To:Ed Pontieri
about the beer & wine license for Savarinos.
Beer and wine are different licenses. Beer is a metro license and is restricted by the single family house being too close. You need a Metro council bill to get past that.
Wine is a State license and is not regulated by houses, parks etc. There is a seating requirement for wine that is much less than liquor and a wine license is less expensive that a liquor license.
Might be worth looking into.
Have someone call the ABC, they have a packet of basic information on getting licensed.
Regarding chicken tender joints: have you all tried Maniac's in Cool Springs? Beer battered strips that are really good. IMO, far superior to McDougal's, Otter's, etc.
Bubba: Haven't tried it yet, but I plan on going in the near future. I work in Brentwood, so it will be a lunch stop for sure.
With all the talk about Hot Kebobs, could someone suggest some good beginner items? I see they have a coupon in the Entertainment book, so I've gotta give it a try.
I have tried Maniac's. Didn't try the tenders, but the wings were good and I love the Southwest egg roll appetizer, a gooey, spicy concoction that probably has a gazillion calories.
Los Rosales
So after my consecutive streak of mediocre to bad Mexican restaurants the streak has been broken.
My wife, daughter and I went to Los Rosales late Sunday afternoon and it was excellent. Straight forward well seasoned and executed food. Every dish was executed well and came as advertised.
From the start when you sit down and are brought fresh chips made in house and a plate with salsa, pico de gallo, and refried beans you know you're in for a good meal. The beans are, unlike 98% of the Mexican restaurants, very flavorful and made fresh daily.
Their ceviche was very good. Fresh lime and cumin flavor the tender pieces of octopus, fish, and shrimp. The steak wrapped in bacon and stuffed with peppers was also very well done. The tequila and lime marinade fajitas were very well seasoned and came with fresh corn tortillas.
They are making outstanding Mexican food on every level. Taking the extra time to make things fresh in-house and adding bright flavors to every dish. It was so exciting to go to a Mexican restaurant and not feel as if I just ate the Sysco catalog. My hope is that this place is supported by all who like good food in the area.
Do any of the west side Vietnamese joints do a banh mi? I love me some Mitchell Deli sandwiches, and I really liked their banh mi, but sometimes when on Charlotte I want a tasty pork sandwich with those savory toppings on a baguette.
dg - i was at miss saigon yesterday and i'm pretty sure i saw it on their menu...
DG: Try Kien Giang. I'm not a big pork eater, but my friend loves the sandwich there.
SWM seeking Amazing Barbecue
Hello all, just wanting to know everyone's favorite barbecue joint. If its Jim and Nick's or Whitt's, that's fine but tell me why. I'm really looking for GREAT barbecue.
I recently rediscovered BobbyQ's in Cookeville. It is has amazing pulled pork and ribs. Their house specialty is Pool Room Slaw which is vinegar based cold slaw that is super spicy and matches perfectly with the pulled pork. Skip the brisket and the on the table sauce - but don't miss the slaw. And its a family joint - no cocktails.
For Nashville eateries, I believe its hard to beat SouthStreet for pulled pork. The swine has great smokey flavor as they smoke their meat right on sight and is served on cornbread. Plus they have the most amazing hot and mild barbecue sauces. Tip of the week - when you go to SouthStreet, dip your hot, buttered bread in a little barbecue sauce and you'll quickly forget everything you ever thought about olive oil bread dipping.
So, tell me where your favorite place for the pig is in Middle Tennessee and why.
Los Rosales is in the strip mall at the corner of Bell and Blue Hole roads. From downtown, take I-40 East to I-24 East. At Exit 59, turn right onto Bell Road and drive about a mile until you see the mini golf course and the Walgreens.
Ed Pontieri, who knew you were such a writer? Need a job? Ed, you had been my favorite sandwich, but I must confess, I had my first Frank Dileo the other day, and he's gaining ground.
The Kien Giang Banh Mi is excellent, and I think it's about $2.50.
I had a very good meal at Los Rosales. I always forget about that place. Often when I think Mexican, I wind up at La Hacienda or, more often, Las Americas (Salvadoran, but a very similar menu), due to the good food and cheap prices. But Los Rosales is a different breed, and quite excellent, if a little pricier.
By the way, for those who like the cheap-eats Mexican taco stands, I was introduced to a new one (as in new to me, anyway). It's called San Luis, and it's on Harding Place Just west of the 24 exit. It's attached to the San Luis Carnaceria (sp.?), and it's just a sliding-window deal. Awesome chorizo, al pastor and carne asado tacos, 1.25 a pop. Great hot sauce and grilled onion, which I like.
ed, i love savarino's - the restaurant, the whole vibe - especially corrado. but i have had a few entrees there that were far from outstanding. and a couple that kinda sucked. that being said, i'd still go back and back... so many things are quite good and remind me of my childhood - and well, i just like them so much.
also, the batali statement? i formally disagree with all my heart. and then some.
I second Claudia's post. I went with her, and had the food was generally pretty good, but what I really loved was Corrado and the whole relaxed atmosphere.
Bar-B-Cutie: My gold standard for local Q is Martin's in Nolensville for pork and brisket, and Slick Pig in Murfreesboro for smoked wings, the best you've ever likely to find. Martin's has the unfaked deep-smoke flavor and the blackened bark I love in BBQ, and it's not fatty or gristly like some I could mention.
Dee's Q in East Nashville is really good, and they really need business now that pitmaster Reggie Crowder passed away two weeks ago. Haven't had Carl's Perfect Pig in forever, but last time I went it was quite good.
And while I'd expect a beatdown from the Ulika crew for saying so, around here I prefer chains like Jim N Nick's and Famous Dave's to a lot of the homegrown product.
Mi Scusi,
Jack, mi dispiace, I tend to wax poetic when I've had too much wine. (Seems to be happening a lot lately) Well...maybe for Lent. (Actually the first time I had a "Frank Dileo" I called him up to confess..."Tookie, I think I like you more than me". Ahh, penance served I do feel better.)
Claudia, mi molto dispiace, I never meant to imply that the Iron Chef wasn't an incredible chef. He's awakened more interest in Italian cuisine in the American consciousness then we've seen since the boys came home from Anzio, and for that "sono contento"
Experience being the best teacher, I find that most "Medigones"(Americans)are quite satisfied with Star-Kist tuna until they've tasted Blue fin Ventresca tonna. You can't know what you have only read about but have not experienced.
True Italain cooking(cucina povera)is the cooking of Grandmothers. It is the quest for undisputed premium product (best, freshest, untouched by human hands)prepared simply, unadorned, but yet exalted.)
To watch my Grandfather raise the Easter lamb, pampering it as if it were his only child, then to walk out into the woods with it in his arms,(you NEVER allow the animal to smell blood or know of its impending doom, fear taints the meat.),and dispatch the animal as ceremoniously as a latin high mass, you are reminded that "Life gives Life".
Food is serious business to the Italians.
Mario is a great chef, so is Marcella Hazan, and Lidia Bastianich, but I'll take the humble home cook, the Nonna, every time.
I've eaten at "Babbo" and enjoyed it, but Frank De Carlo's "Peasant" is much more rustic and to my liking
Jack, Claudia, Fluffer,
The homemade wine will be ready to bottle after Easter, please join me in a glass and we can continue our discussion. (Maybe Maria will make us coniglio(rabbit).)
in bocca al lupo
Ed
P.S. Claudia, Fluffer, I know I sometimes tend to exaggerate but, "loving Corrado"??? That's one hard China man to love.
Dippin Sauce-
The main thing to know about Persian/Middle Eastern food is that if you get kabobs and rice, it's really just kabobs and rice, there's not a lot of sauce going on. A great way to try some different stuff is to get appetizers, you can easily make a meal of a bunch of small plates of hummus, bhaba ganous, falafel. Parisa's is good, Hot Kabobs, House of Kabobs...all good.
Los Rosales, they have GREAT vegetarian options!
ed - crepi!
hey, i do love corrado. i do. and although it's been too long i love nothing more than to spend a late afternoon arguing with corrado about food. it's ranks right up there with well, just about any other thing this town has offered me. i love that man. he is a good man. and talking food is heaven for me. he knows his stuff. he cares about getting it right. he is a treasure in this town - for sure. yes, i love corrado...
as for babbo - i've had a bad meal there and a great meal there. no one is spot on every single night. but i see lidia and mario as extensions of the quintessential nonna. they do a lot and i mean A LOT of peasant cooking. and you are so right about the best ingredients. it is what i get on my soapabox about - just use the best food and execute properly. and simply. the italians are brilliant in this regard although in all honesty the spaniards are right up there with them...
god bless savarino's and corrado and the gang. and mario. and lidia. and the internet for allowing sheep's milk ricotta to grace my kitchen on occasion...
