Chewse Begins

   

The Chew		The View
Spicy beef and shrimp fajitas		La Taquiza near USC

I've written a business plan. I'm in the middle of sales pitches. But nothing tells an entrepreneur's story quite like a photographic account of meetings, or the personal story of the partners you meet with.
Forgive me, my friends, who I've neglected of late. I feel I owe this entry to you, so you can see that I wasn't just sleeping early when we could have gone to a concert or had a drink at Birds.

My business of last year was The Dish Dash. Many of you saw me through the ups and downs of that business, and I've come away with more knowledge than I thought a year could cram into my thick skull. Now, I'm preparing a new venture. Simply, it's called Chewse and I am bitten by the start-up phases once again.

My sleep is unsettled. I wake up exhilarated. I dream in sales.

Life for the entre is truly riveting -- no need to dapple with drugs when you've got the highs and lows of running your own operation. Thankfully, today was a day of highs (so to speak), and I can only prepare for more days like today.

I met with restaurant owner and true foodie Miguel Medina of La Taquiza, with his restaurant poised right next to the Row at USC. Thank god Yelp uncovered this hidden gem for me, with their famous mulita and authentic Mexican specialties.

Jamaica > Tamarind > Horchata

When I ask Miguel his favorite, of course they all are! The only point of asking, though, is to find that secret sauce. Remember the joy of ordering off the In N Out "Secret Menu" for the first time (that is, until you found out you and 499 of your friends knew about it)?

Miguel's Tip: Mix the Jamaica and Tamarind juices into a refreshing, lightly sweet blend. Order it enough times, and maybe he'll give it an official name. After you, of course.

Miguel, the humble owner behind the counter, is a magnanimous entrepreneur -- as evidenced by his generous heaping of specialties in the Sampler Platter. The showcased photo at right is the secret sauce behind this tacoed treasure trove.

Miguel's Tip: This specialty is a ribbed meat that comes from between the ribs, not directly off the rib. It's simply seasoned with salt, and brings out the flavor of the meat without hiding behind dressings or salsas.

You might be asking for the house favorite, and the new sheriff in town to claim that title is the korean beef taco with a sweet, spicy dressing and avocado topping.

The corn and black bean salad is perfect for the calorie counters out there. But Miguel's Favorite is the beet salad. I've finally found someone who indulges in a similar beet fantasy. Something about that unnaturally deep mauve in an unnaturally tender vegetable just sings to my soul.

The real takeaway from my meeting with Miguel was just what business means. It's always about the relationships, and you can never forget that you aren't helping your clients as much as they are helping you. They have the faith in you. They pay for your family and your fancy meals out. Thanks are always in order to them :)

A Sausagefest (That Guys Actually Want)

     

The Chew		The View
The Sausagefest		Beer Models

You've caught me at a great time -- in the midst of graduation festivities comes food. And lots of it. Beer too.

The reason that I was privvy to even starting an international food blog was because of my International Exchange coordinator, Sean (O'Conn as we dub him). Somehow, after years of annoying questions about credit transfers, calls from concerned parents, and our missed deadlines and pleadings to submit paperwork, this man STILL wants to buy us a meal. 

Did I mention the beer? Wurstkuche (vurst-koo-sha, I think) is a solid sausage and beer self-service bar and restaurant in Downtown's hidden Arts District.

After bumping into a fellow Six Taste co-worker, I began with a La Chouffe Belgian Golden Ale. A light beer with a high alcohol content -- definitely my thing.

Let's not downplay the reason we came here: sausage speak. Seriously, a whole new flavor palette dedicated to the mystery meat in mystery casing. Not so mysterious at Wurstkuche:

• Duck & Bacon with Jalapeno 
• Rabbit, Veal and Prok
• Alligator & Pork
• Vegetarian Mexican Chipotle
• Bratwurst (psh, boring)

My choice was the Vegetarian Smoked Apple Sage. Typically, the problem with fake meat is the lack of moisture -- and I'll admit Wurstkuche still grapples with that problem. But, dear god, the toppings of Sweet Peppers & Caramelized Onions could have been stuffed alone between the buns, and I would call it a savory meal. The sweet robust flavors of the toppings were accentuated by the punchy Chipotle Ketchup.

So while the (fake) meat was too dry for me, somehow the beer and toppings kept me mighty distracted.

The post-dinner wine at Bacaro LA certainly kept me hydrated. Thanks you crazy business kids

Wurstkuche
800 E. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013

EPIC Return: The Capital Grille

     

The Chew		The View
Fresh Strawberries Capital Grille		A Boozy Welcome

After a year of putting my writing cap aside on focusing on my final year in college and building a business, I want a return. A justification for annoying fellow diners with close up food photos. A reason to mark things off my LA dining bucket list. And something fun to do now that graduation is looming (and apparently life's all downhill from here - not a theory I prescribe to).

I have 2 muses that drew me out of writer's hibernation: my food blogger and friend, Marilyn Chiu (read her tasty escapades at The Nomlog) and the wonderful staff at The Capital Grille :)

Marilyn brought me out to The CG (my name for it, unofficially) and their first blogger event several weeks ago, with Master Sommelier George Miliotes. By "Master" he truly falls into league with Master Jedis, Ninjas, and the like (you try tasting a wine blind-folded and identifying the type of rock soil the vines were grown in). I couldn't resist when Marilyn brought me back for a full-on dinner in the gorgeous inside space).

Walking into the dining room of The Capital Grille makes me feel like I should be dressed to play a role in film noir. Dark lipstick, blond curls -- neither of which I have, or are required here. The dark wood panels are enlivened by a crowd of Westside foodies, and a staff well-versed in wine. Just as any good story begins, I was greeted with a bottle of wine.

A Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon: I only wish Marilyn and I weren't driving. Our exceptional waiter patiently walked us through each menu item -- you'd be lucky to have him when you go! (Thanks, Josh)

Wasabi-Encrusted Ahi Tuna on Caramelized Mushrooms with Soy Honey Vinaigrette


A sweet way to get your palate ready for the main course -- though it is Hollywood, and for some this might be the main course...

Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with Arugula and Lemon Vinaigrette


Oh so thinly sliced, lightly cooked beef. Why do people fear this dish? Live on the edge... life certainly tastes better that way.


The pepper-encrusted beef was a definite contrast to the sweet amuse. But Marilyn and I love sweet and savory combos (hence my fascination with the Maple Bacon Donut at Nickel Diner).

Lobster & Crab Stuffed Shrimp

Lightly breaded. Quickly devoured. This is going to be problematic for me being a good vegetarian (though I guess I was screwed the moment I walked into a steakhouse).


The tomato-based sauce didn't drown the shrimp -- as if you could drown any sea creature. Nonetheless, well-portioned saucing.

Marilyn had the Delmonico Steak cooked in the grindings of mushroom with a 12-year aged balsamic vinaigrette. Choosing this house favorite after false starts at other tasty cuts of meat took her quite a bite of time :)

"The Convert" Coconut Cream Pie

Marilyn doesn't even like coconut -- but Josh recommended it as a "convert" dish, and I had to see if it would stand the test. 

The chewy wafer base housed a cream base that swirled up to support coconut shavings and a caramel rum sauce. 

Marilyn didn't stand a chance.



But you're on a budget, you cry? As a fresh-grad, I gotcha. Which is why I scoped the Happy Hour offerings. Sit at the front or upstairs bar and treat yourself to $6 Plates that range from Mini Lobster and Crab Burgers to Parmesan Truffle Fries. 

The Capital Grille (or The CP if you're prone to abbreves like me) 
8614 Beverly Blvd
(Beverly Center)
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310.358.0650

Spain's Balearic Islands: Ocean Views & Home-Cooked Meals

     

The Chew		The View
Twin Pizza Tastings		Toes in Ibiza :)

4/14~Mallorca

After a wonderful night of Barcelona's funkiest club, Razzmatazz, Lu, Junie, Kristin, and I woke up to find ourselves on the amazing island of Mallorca--the biggest of the Spanish Balearic Islands. Sister to the sleeping dragon of Ibiza (where we would go next), Mallorca promised us exactly the opposite of what we used to crave: no sights, no metro, and absolutely, positively no museums. 

Frankly, we are tired. Being travelers is a rough job (but someone's gotta do it, no?), and after a rough week of papers and midterms, we were ready to lounge beachside. Welcome to the beach party.

Beachside BK

"Black Tea"

Obligatory Beachside Lounging

Amazing Veggie Pizza


4/15~Ibiza

Ah, our time in Mallorca was too short. But, being the student travelers we are, we jetted off in search of the next party. Ibiza is one of the Balearic Islands off of Spain, and is known for its crazy rave festivities that consume its beachside, summer nights. We got there earlier than peak season, which actually helped our wallets -- regular cover club charge during the peak is 60 euro for entry. We got in for a steal at 15 euros. Plus, check out the hotel we nabbed for less than $20 a night:

  Room With a View

 Home-Cooked Meal (Ibiza ain't known for its food)

  Festivities before Pacha Club

It's funny how small the world can be if you make it so. I've seen the USC Madrid kids at least 3 times, and Ibiza was a happy coincidence.  So, even though the end of my semester abroad is in sight, I have a newfound sense that anyone I want to see and keep in touch with I can. It's a matter of will--and perhaps some money, of course.

 Kiwi smoothies with Junie :)

Not one museum in this entry. Just wait until Italy and Paris--trust me, I'm not always a lazy traveler in search of sun and surf. In fact, the Fates would reinforce that decision by hiding the sun from our travels. Somehow we still make the best of it all!

Slightly tanned,

The Chew 

Swept Off My Feet by Portugal: Spring Break Ensues

The Chew		The View
Pasteis de Belem!		Tower of Belem

3/25~Loping around Lisbon

What´s the first thought to hit you when you think Portugal? To be honest, I used to draw a blank. Egg custard tarts? Fish? Coastline?

I really need to see more of this world.

The City of 7 Hills

I landed in a city that looked back with cold respect at a 1755 earthquake, which decimated most of the city. Mostly rebuilt, it´s infused with Mediterranean influences and it´s own unique ocean mythology. Explorers of the new world are celebrated, songs of regret known as fado are sung over swoony, candlelit dinners. This is what I´ve been thrown into.

After dropping my things off with Lauren, who´s joining me on the journey through Portugal and Southern Spain, I was off.

Stunningly quiet

One of the most breathtakingly quiet courtyards. The Convent do Carmo is an oasis of calm (the rest of the city aint bad either). Also destroyed by the 1755 earthquake, it was rebuilt only to be sacked. Funny how humans can be more destructive than acts of nature.

Forbidden Garden

Where I was literally kicked out. See what I mean about hidden oases in Lisbon? Though the guard did share some cool tidbits of info, like how it was owned by a mysterious American.

These hills kick butt

It´s funny how the Portuguese deal with rain. The moment rain falls, you see crowds of varied people under awnings, watching as if some sports spectacle was occuring in the streets. You almost expect to see a parade pass by. They know that the rain comes in short bouts, and wait quite patiently.

                            3/26~Belem: Pastries & A Tower

Our traveling trio!

With Amy here, it was time to get down to business. The funny business of sushi in Portugal.

SUSHI BUFFET

Belem is the coastal part of Lisbon with history, sushi, pastries, and sights. The problem with a buffet is that it´s imperative for us to eat pasteis de natas. More on that later.

Prison with a View

Dear god, the Tower of Belem is amazing. A former chapel turned military reserve turned prison, this beachside fort has seen some serious happenings.

I´ve never gotten such pleasure from material items

Just to show it off again

This place is MAGICAL. The pasteis de natas are a lovely Portuguese pastry of egg custard filling with a burnt top, and cruncy pastry brushed in butter. What I thought would be similar to the Chinese version of the egg tart (dan ta) is actually closer to a creme brulee. You add your own cinnamon, powdered sugar topping, which only enhances the creamy custard within.

 

The Pasteis de Belem has their own religiously guarded recipe. Seriously, only 3 people know the recipe. They come in every morning, oversee the mixing process, then leave into their appointed lockboxes where their secret is hidden away.

 

I´m not a coffee fan, but the galao was a perfect accent to the dish. It´s a shot of espresso with milk, making it closer to a frappe than anything else. The bitterness helped balance the richness of the tart--though I´ve never been one to complain of things being too sweet. What a silly concept.

 

Getting ready for another gorgeous day in Lagos, here in Southern Portugal. Tanning today, bbq tonight, surf tomorrow!

 

Until the ocean waves,

The Chew

Less Chew and More Gulp: Dublin, Ireland

    

The Chew		The View
Veggie Shepherd's Pie, Home Fries, Potatoes GALORE		The Liffey River at sunset

3/17~First Guinness

 

Never have I seen a country so defined by one color. Green grass, green airport, green fuzzy hats that filled the streets for St. Patty's Day. I flew in with no expectations except for Guinness, and returned home with an Irish twinkle in my eye--and really fully of Guinness, and a new friend, Jameson.

My First Pour of Guinness!

Our first night at the pub scene, and I had my own chance to pour Guinness. How do I explain the taste and process of a REAL Guinness? First, the pour has to be done 3/4 of the way first, then left to rest for 1 and a half minutes. The color will resemble more of a Coke colouring as it aerates and slowly turns to the signature black. Then it is topped off, and you are left with an incredible foam layering, which is the ice cream on this drinkable cake. Taking the first sip is like that first drop of rain after a drought--nothing can quench your thirst quite like that. The light cream melts away to reveal a smooth, barely carbonated beer that leaves you with a hint of bitterness in the back of the mouth. Not unlike drinking a smooth coffee, actually.

 Puy Lentil Burger @ Gourmet Burger Kitchen

Ok, so you can't survive on beer alone (though some may beg to differ). Dublin has a surprising amount of young, trendy restaurants--though that notion becomes less surprising when you find out the average age of a Dubliner is 24!

The Gourmet Burger Kitchen gave me the perfect veggie burger to prepare me for my potato and puff pastry-filled journey to follow.

ST. PATTY'S DAY

Hot Whiskey @ Temple Bar

For St. Patty's Day, green was certainly the triumphant color: the streets were packed with people wearing fuzzy lime-green hats, hunter green scarves that proudly proclaimed "IRELAND" and shamrockin' sunglasses. The parade itself was less of a sight than the people who climbed onto poles, light fixtures, and trucks to see it.

The place to be is this area called Temple Bar, which is marked by the fact that every other venue is a pub--the most famous being Temple Bar itself! I first went in with Luia and we enjoyed a hot whiskey, which is this wonderful concoction of hot water, brown sugar, whiskey, and clove-studded lemon. It was 3:30pm, and we could barely move through the crowds. We met a mother-daughter team from Pasadena sharing Irish Car Bombs, and a Danish woman who inquired about our hot drinks. There were a couple of leprechaun-studded men who posed for us in the beer garden area. What a place!
 

We were back later that night for our very own pub crawl, which was well worth our money (boy can beers add up...I get why people forego eating in favor of Guinness). For once, the city was open late. Every other night, the city's nightlife ended at about 2:30am--just when it kicks off in good 'ol Barca :)

3/18~Guinness Factory

Guinness on top of the world @ SkyBar

What journey to Dublin would be complete without a visit to The Guinness Factory? It was a complete trip, a total tourist spot of a now non-functioning factory. You travel through the ingredients required to make Guinness, and one section--for water--displayed a waterfall where people felt this odd urge to take pictures. It's incredible what a gimmicky thing they could do to a curious tourist. The highlight of the tour was the SkyBar, where you can enjoy a pour with 360 degree views of Dublin. We had the pleasure of seeing a RAINBOW with our view, where it's the most inspiring to see one. I'm pretty sure rainbows were invented in Ireland.

@ Guinness Factory

Oldest Pub in Ireland est. 1198

 With all that Guinness in our system, we had to have more pub food. The Brazen Head is Ireland's oldest pub, and right around the corner from our second hostel (The Four Courts Hostel). I had my greasiest fry dish of Battered Mushrooms with Homefries...it was literally the only vegetarian dish there!

3/19~Irish Countryside

Day trip to gorgeous countryside @ Wicklow

Since we were in Dublin for 5 days, we had the luxury of taking a day trip out to Glendalough and Wicklow. I seriously couldn't stop thinking of references in Victorian novels like Wuthering Heights, as we passed by actual MOORS. What is a moor, you ask? It's a pasture with this odd peet-like brush that looks like rolling fields of grain. The landscapes were stunning enough that movies like Saving Private Ryan and Braveheart were filmed there. AND we got to stop and take pictures in the bridge were PS I Love You was filmed. All I could wish for was Gerard Butler to pop out and propose. But I guess we don't all have the luck of the Irish, do we? ;)

3/20~Queen of Tarts & Shopping

PASTRY GALORE @ Queen of Tarts

There's a reason The Queen of Tarts is ranked as one of the top 3 eateries in Dublin. I don't think I've eaten so much puff pastry in my life. We ducked out temporarily of a free 3-hour Dublin City Tour to grab one of these treats at the Dame Street location.

Spinach Puff Pastry w/ Brie & Walnuts

That was just trip #1. Trip #2 was when we had a free moment at Cow's Lane, which is this cute street of boutiques and bakeries...and yet another Queen of Tarts. The focaccia bread that my roasted veggies were nestled between literally had tomato baked into the top. It had a wonderful Urth Cafe feel that brought me all the way back to LA :)

Roasted veggie sandwich with hummus on focaccia bread @ Q of T 2

After doing some souvenir shopping at the outdoor Designer's Mart of Cow's Lane, we headed to Trinity College to see the Book of Kells. After deciding that the 8 euro fee was too hefty, we headed to the Jameson's factory, which I actually enjoyed touring more. It was more of an intimate experience, where you had a personal tour guide take the group through the 7 steps of boiling, mashing, distilling, etc. in a very Disney-like set that you could touch and take pictures of. Instead of hopping aboard the India Jones ride, your reward for waiting is the whiskey. I got to try a cranberry-whiskey drink, which was SO YUMMY. And apparently they drink it with apple juice in Russia, which is my next mixture to sample.

Jameson's at the end of the rainbow @ Jameson's Factory

Needing another injection of trend, we decided to end our trip at a hipster restaurant simply titled gruel. My cheese quesadillas with guacamole were good by virtue of simply having guacamole. Dear god, avocados are expensive in Europe. I definitely licked my bowl clean :)

Last Meal @ gruel

My trip was a wonderfully self-reflective journey, and also a beautiful first trip out of Spain to see the green and hospitality of another country. And let me tell you, the Irish are the most LOVELY and kind people. From the woman in the first hostel who wouldn't let us leave without giving us glasses of juice to give us energy, to the people on the bus who gave us food and wrote out directions on what to visit and how to get there, to the taxi driver who laughed at us for not pronouncing "Quay" as "Key," we met some truly hospitable, down to earth people.

Being with my GLPeeps, this group that I've been with since freshmen year, with whom I shared my first drink not so long ago in an Irish pub in Shanghai, that I really learned what our friendship means. It's a comfortable, warm feeling of being able to travel and not worry about entertaining. About caring so much about other people's wants, that you're truly pleased when they are. 

I hope to share more travels with you all~

Cheers,

The Chew