Thursday, October 21, 2010

Going Analog

I was never much of a bar person. Sure, I'd always preferred the excitement of Downtown San Diego over the quietness of North County. Even though I did go bar-hopping at times, few caught my interest. Until about two months ago, that is, when I walked through the doors of Analog Bar. My reaction? Jackpot! A large tv with Mortal Kombat on the screen was to my left and countless vinyl albums lined the wall to my right. And the music playing was classic. I knew I was going to like this place. And I hadn't even sat down yet!

Anyway, after I was done being awestruck, I took a seat at the bar. The bartenders were very friendly and helpful. After admitting that I didn't know much about beer, one of them recommended to me the Shiner Bock. Two months later, this is still my drink of choice whenever I go there. Which is often.

By this point, I was already impressed. What impressed me next? The food, of course. Now, the food menu at the Analog might seem like it has your average bar fare at first glance. Bar fare? Yes. Average? Far from it. It took me awhile to decide on a dish. Being the foodie that I am, I wanted to try everything. I finally decided on the Portabello Mushroom Lil' Burger.



Personally, I love mushrooms, but even if you're not a big mushroom person, give this a try. I'll spare you all my chef-talk about how the good it was, but this is one of the tastiest things out there. Really juicy and full of taste. And surprisingly filling too, considering there was no meat in it. Oh, yes, I was going to be a returning customer for sure.

And return, I did.



Each time with a different menu item on my plate.



Whether it's the TreeHugger Lover, the Stuffed 'Shrooms, the Lil' Burgers, the Totchos, the Dirty Sanchez, or the Truffle Grilled Cheese, the food does not disappoint at all. What makes it taste so great? What makes it truly worth it? The people. Both the ones that work there for being so cool and the ones who go to have a good time. Yes, it's a bar. But it doesn't feel like one. It's more like a party at your best friend's house or a gathering among friends, playing video games, singing karaoke, drinking and eating. Pure fun. And the Analog delivers.

Analog Music & Burger Bar on Urbanspoon

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Hot Chocolate, anyone?

It's raining here in good ol' San Diego, which meant my plans to go out and about were temporarily put on hold. As much as I love rainy weather, it does get boring staying indoors. So what did I do to ease said boredom? I made hot chocolate. No, not with Hershey's chocolate syrup, Nestle, or Swiss Miss hot cocoa mix, but with some extra baking chocolate I had. Now, I admit it does sound a little strange, but it makes for a richer hot chocolate and warms you right up. Give it a try!

Hot Chocolate Ingredients-

Milk (1 cup)
Semi-sweet Baking chocolate (1 oz.)
Nutmeg (optional)
Cinnamon (optional)

Heat up milk in a small saucepan on medium-high heat over stove. While milk is heating, place the chocolate in a stainless steel bowl. When milk begins to froth, remove from the heat and pour into the bowl over the chocolate. Immediately whisk the milk and the chocolate together until the chocolate has completely dissolved, about 5 minutes. Serve in a mug or demitasse cup and sprinkle with nutmeg and cinnamon if desired.

Monday, October 18, 2010

And So It Begins, or Obligatory Intro Post

I could start by telling you my name, where I'm from, etc. But that would be boring, wouldn't it? Besides, you can find out most of that info on my profile. Anyway...

I am a lover of all things culinary. My mission? To create dishes and further hone my skills and refine my palate while sharing favorite recipes and restaurants. Food is a joy that everyone should deserve, right? So stay tuned; this is only the beginning.