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Latin Flavors
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Marissa的5星評語： There is one day of the week when LENGUA ESTOFADO ($10.90) is on the menu and the stars must have aligned for us when we happened to be in Miami Beach on a Sunday craving for comfort food. Served with plantains and rice as most of the dishes here, their beef tongue is an absolute-must. Boasting that melt-in-your-mouth experience I've never had when eating this dish, it was like a revelation of the truth. I'm all ears if you know of a place that exceeds their version. OXTAIL STEW ($14.90) was on another level of goodness. Available daily, this is your best bet on finding euphoria especially once you gnaw on those gelatinous stuff from the bones. Another best on this category by far. Their ROPA VIEJA ($12.90) might be the most popular thing here and it was indeed fantastic. Shredded beef soaked in flavorful red tomatillo sauce, your taste buds will only thank you. Everything we had here surpassed my expectations. Portions were huge and the prices were very reasonable. Even their plantains were perfect especially when paired with the meat and rice on every bite...sweet and salty, baby! To cap off this fabulous meal, CAFE CON LECHE ($3.90) was muy bueno. If only we had room for dessert, Quatro Leches Cake would have been it. One more reason to come back, si? Where's the 6th star when you need it? -
Marissa的5星評語： I can only push Taco Maria aside for so long because as I've said to many before, there is no way I am paying a premium price for tacos. Well, I stand corrected. The prix fixe dinner for $79, first of all, is not "just" tacos. It is a 4-course meal of near perfection. You get to choose between 2 options per course but because there were 2 of us, we decided not to pick one but to try everything on the menu. Oysters for our amuse bouche was quite the start. Course 1: Aguachile de Coco vs. Alegria Aguachile wins in a heartbeat. This cold dish of raw hamachi swimming in pungent coconut lime soup with macadamia and seaweed toppings may be the best thing I ate here. Or so I thought. The Alegria was a butternut squash dish that I'm sure vegetarians would enjoy. It wasn't for me. Course 2: Callo Gratinado vs. Taco de Esturion A close tie these two. Scallop topped with cheese, squid ink crumbs, and chile ancho - my God, you can take me now! Taco of smoked sturgeon was so unique. Made out of blue masa, the chef explained to us the intricacies involved to produce such a glorious taco. The texture was mind-boggling. It is best eaten with chile, peanuts, and cucumber altogether for that stunning depth of flavor. Course 3: Pescado Zarandeado vs. Tamal de Queso Another round of pure bliss. The striped bass was cooked beautifully and that onion puree was phenomenal. After realizing the tamal was not panna cotta (because it sure looked like one), I indulged and savored every amazing bite. I'm glad I didn't have to choose between ordering one or the other. Course 4: Gallinta Pinta vs. Carne Asada This one's easy. Carne asada for the win. Ultimately, I would never pick chicken over red meat and in this case, you dare not do so yourself. The taco, again, was pure perfection, guac was fab, while the star of the show was the steak in all its pink and juicy splendor. Even the fried kale chips were to die for. Ok, ok, the chicken was not bad at all, too. With all that and the impressive wine pairing ($39) I just imbibed in, there was just no more room for dessert. We walked out of there with our complimentary mignardises nicely packed and satiated grins on our faces. Bravo, Chef Carlos Salgado! -
Marissa的5星評語： Porto's Bakery has made a name for itself back when they first opened their first store in Glendale, so much so that every regular customer has already accepted the long lines that await them upon arrival. Fast forward to today with several locations out there and more opening soon, this specific brick and mortar is not only ginormous and modern, they have quite the operation here. With various sections you can order from, the crowds of people are no longer intimidating. Lines go pretty fast. All-time favorites include the potato balls with sausage, Parisian chocolate cake, and cheese rolls. My new found-love is the ham croquette as well as the ham and cheese croissant. You've got to try those if you haven't yet. I'd also check out their coffee bar if I were you. The Dulce De Leche Latte is delicious. It shouldn't be long until they open another one somewhere in South OC...this I longingly hope for. -
Marissa的5星評語： After so many failed attempts of booking a table, I finally made my way here the one Saturday when the Women's March also took place in DTLA. Thank heavens for reservations and the pay parking lot next door! A steep $8 will not have me complaining just this one time. Walking in to a buzzing brunch scene, the place was completely packed except for a table waiting to be occupied by my party. I felt eyes like daggers on my back from those who got turned away when the receptionist seated us as soon as we arrived. I kid not, there were so many walk-ins who left disappointed. We started off with 4 ball-shaped RICOTTA FRITTERS ($10) which had a slightly crisp breading exterior and a soft zesty cheese filling. Drizzled with just the right amount of saffron honey, it left me on a euphoric sweet and salty high. The richness makes this dish appropriate for sharing. SWEET PIGGY COCA ($17) was a beautiful chewy flatbread for all you bacon lovers out there. There's just something about incorporating caramelized onions, arugula, and melted guyere cheese with bacon. It's a powerhouse team of ingredients to be reckoned with. Furthermore, a hint of the horseradish vinegar gave this pizza-like dish that appropriate zing of acidity. Bravo. Irresistible as it sounds, the BUTTERMILK BISCUIT with honey butter ($6) was both sinful and heavenly. It was warm, flaky, moist, and everything that makes a biscuit perfect. Now, for the grand finale, I present to you the best thing I ate here -- THE ORIGINAL BACO ($15). A Baco is a flatbread sandwich developed by Chef Josef Centeno. Being the genius that he is, this particular creation was jam-packed with satiating flavors of all sorts. Let me begin with the arugula salad dressed with something tarty, add to it bursts of acidity as you bite into pieces of grape tomatoes, only to be met by the savory crunch of the pork belly and beef carnitas, which is then tied in with the most fascinating piquant tomato-based sauce called a salbitxada. Pieces of nuts were also to be found, amplifying the contrasting mouthfeel factor. What can I say, this baco was exceptional that I would come back for this even if I were to brave another rally on the streets of DTLA. -
Marissa的5星評語： Mil Jugos' arepas makes me wanna go Arriba! Arriba! I finally found time to venture out to downtown Santa Ana during the weekday and check out what MJ is really all about. They close at 5pm everyday except on Sundays when they're closed all day. Parking is available at a parking structure across the street. My friends and I walked in to a surprisingly big establishment with citrus-colored walls, contrasting dark furniture, and a comfy lounge area with a swinging hammock, which altogether adds a sense of home and character to this place. I like it! While studying the menu, the owner swings by asking if it was our first time and because it was, she explained to us their house specialties and what they're really known for. Cachapas, arepas, and fresh fruit juices are the popular ones she says. So what do I order? Exactly just that! I went with a large glass of their fresh CANTALOUPE jugo AKA juice ($4.25) which was nothing but sweet and refreshing on that scorching hot day. You can get this without dairy if you wish but I like mine creamy so yes, with milk please. Delicious stuff but this we can simply make at home. They have lots of other fruit flavors to choose from so see what rocks your boat. Apparently, the passion fruit got the approval of my friends. The main show arrived and what a beautiful sight it was...ASADO AREPAS with avocado for an extra $! ($5.75) It's their version of a sandwich using grilled corn bread that is filled with your choice of meat, beans, or veggies. I could not have picked a better choice of filling...stewed round eye cut meat in wine and brown sugar which is seasoned with garlic and other spices. It's seriously amaaazing. Add their magic GREEN SAUCE on top of that and WOW! One of the best sauces ever made. The owner did a special demo on how to eat an Arepas. It was pretty fun to watch as she almost hand-fed our friend after adding the sauces (both spicy and green--it's the way to go!). Lunch and a show? Can't complain! For dessert, I got the CACHAPAS with QUESO ($7) and good thing I split this with a friend as it was really filling. It's a Venezuelan pancake made out of sweet corn so if you like corn bread, imagine this to be similar to that, only sweeter, very much moist, denser in flavor, and simply delightful. I can't quite figure out what cheese was used here but it paired rather well with the flavor entirety of the Cachapas. If you want to turn this into something savory, you can opt to get a different filling such as ham, beans, chicken, etc. The entire restaurant was buzzing with a lunch crowd and regardless, service was really fast and efficient. I'm really digging this place!! I only wish they were open late and on Sundays.
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Marissa的5星評語： I have nothing but good things to say about our dining experience here. I'm no paella or tapas expert but I've had quite a few in my lifetime. In this case, I've been swooned by all there is that Socarrat Nolita has to offer. Walking in, we were enthusiastically greeted by Loreto, the manager and were led to our table in the back. The place was beautiful. Dimly lit with exposed red brick walls and a variety of table seating, I was liking the vibe of the place. We had a stroller in tow and they gladly set it aside for us like a coat check if you will. A few chit chat here and there alongside a pitcher of sangria, alas, we were ready to order. Here's what I tried: SANGRIA---The only way to start the evening. It was fruity, subtly sweet, and very refreshing. $34 PULPO GALLEGA---Octopus boiled and seasoned to perfection. I've never had octopus this tender! Drizzled with some salt, paprika, and olive oil, this is one of my favorite tapas. Even the potatoes are beautifully cooked. Delisyoso! $14 http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/socarrat-nolita-new-york?select=s5FGYXmq4I471RBZvTRScw#nSUwP1LMkYrsBVYcdUbcmA CROQUETAS---Crunchy on the outside and creamy inside, this was oozing with flavor. A hit on the table! $9 http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/socarrat-nolita-new-york?select=s5FGYXmq4I471RBZvTRScw#v9JzfHFx1YUFnAagcQvTeA TUNA---A special of the evening. The fish was really fresh. I thought it was nothing spectacular at first but the added twist was a nice surprise. $16 http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/socarrat-nolita-new-york?select=s5FGYXmq4I471RBZvTRScw#7tC2RSs52kS9XzZxw_J_PA PAELLA SOCARRAT---More like traditional paella. Served with plenty of chicken, beef, calamari, shrimp, fish, cuttlefish, mussels, clams, and green beans. There's more than enough meat to go with the rice on this platter. Each component is fresh and adds a depth of flavor to this dish. One of the best paellas I've had in a while! $23 per person http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/socarrat-nolita-new-york?select=s5FGYXmq4I471RBZvTRScw#3u-hte_C74YmpO5oz2KB_w PAELLA ARROZ NEGRO---Squid ink paella is my ultimate weakness. I've loved this since growing up back home and have never found a place that serves this dish perfectly up until now. Finally, some good authentic paella negro! I also love how the portions of shrimp, calamari, scallops, and fish are abundant on this platter. The rice is cooked socarrat, meaning a little overdone for that crisp texture. It's truly wonderful! They serve this with a side of some garlic butter which you can add to your rice for more flavor. Moy bueno! $24 per person http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/socarrat-nolita-new-york?select=s5FGYXmq4I471RBZvTRScw#FOoAp4gHsTcmNwix1d9BBg NOTE: The Paella has a minimum order of two people and the price is per person. A bit on the pricey side but it's worth it. Indulge yourself! SERVICE is stellar! We truly felt like VIP while dining here. We never had to call them for anything because they were very attentive. Water was refilled even before we noticed we needed one. Our table was cleared when needed and our food was served promptly. Another perk while dining here is that La Churreria is just next door and is run by the same owner. We were able to order churros con chocolate from our server and was served on our table for dessert. What better way to end my meal than with my favorite Spanish delicacy. It was fantastic! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/socarrat-nolita-new-york?select=s5FGYXmq4I471RBZvTRScw#m__yPMMuANvqKGMISvmjWg Definitely one for the books! It was our last meal in NY and we couldn't have ended it a better way. Gracias, Soccarat Nolita! -
Marissa的5星評語： Leonard's malasadas have become iconic in Oahu. Locals, tourists, and probably even those who haven't been to the island know about them. Because why not? These Portuguese donuts are made fresh to order so you can best enjoy them in all its light and fluffy splendor. Crunchy outside and chewy inside would be the ideal way to describe these hole-less fried dough pastries. Just make sure you consume them while they're warm. Covered in sugar, cinnamon sugar, or li-hing are your options if you don't want filling in them ($1.25 ea).The cinnamon sugar was and still is my #1 here. If you're looking for something different, you might like the Li Hing's sweet and sour flavors, and have I mentioned they're pink? The Malasada Puffs ($1.60 ea.) are another big hit with different flavored fillings. They have a rotating flavor of the month while the mainstays are custard, haupia (coconut), dobash (chocolate), and macadamia nut. I loooove the haupia! With its popularity and location, I promise there will always be a line when you come here. Parking can also be challenging but that said, they're trivial to what this bakery has to offer. -
Marissa的5星評語： On a whim, we decided to hit up West LA for a mid-week GNO. It wasn't hard making a last-minute reservation, nor was it a nuisance for them to hold our table when we called notifying them that we were stuck in traffic. Greeting us as we were walking to the restaurant was this red facade with dark trimmed windows and the word PICCA stamped right in the middle of it. A bold impression indeed. Factoring in its interior with ambient lighting, wood and glass furnishings, as well as that vivacious energy in the air, we knew this was going to be an evening of sophisticated debauchery. True to its name, which means "to nibble", expect the dishes here to be served tapas style and to be shared like one big happy family. Our server explained the menu to us while suggesting 3 dishes per person should suffice. Here's what we ordered: PISCO SOUR ($12) - a Peruvian signature cocktail that will make your lips pucker with its delightful sweet and sour flavor. Glass is too small..uhm size it up please! SPICY YELLOWTAIL CAUSA ($8) - Their take on a sushi but instead of rice, they use whipped potato. These were 2 minuscule pieces of uniquely delicious palate openers worth trying atleast once. ANTICUCHO DIVER SCALLOPS ($8) - A definite must! The aji amarillo sauce offered a hint of acidity while the crushed wasabi peas added a pleasant contrast in texture. Super moist and grilled to perfection. CHORITOS ($12) - Black mussels swimming in very delectable sauce. Citrus is the distinct flavor shining through for me but it married very well with the smokiness from the bacon. I couldn't let go of this bowl until I wiped it clean and dry. ANTICUCHO DE CORDERO ($30) - 2 pieces of perfectly grilled lamb chops with meat that's uber tender and covered in sweet bbq sauce. This was popular on the table but overpriced IMO. ARROZ CON ERIZO ($17) - Peruvian paella with a medley of seafood from scallops, mussels, shrimps, etc. But the most important ingredient this glorious dish has is the sea urchin sauce. Well-loved by everyone on the table except, I think it's a dash of salt short from perfection. The leftover sauce from the choritos did the trick for me. You might think it odd but the pairing was superb! We had two plates of this paella. BISTEK A LO POBRE ($17) - Wow! The steak was wonderfully grilled medium, plus the rice, OMG! The banana, egg, and garbanzo tacu-tacu mixed into the rice made up a delightfully rich symphony of flavors. SECO DE PATO ($16) - Crispy braised duck leg with cilantro rice was the last thing we added due to our server's concern that we didn't order enough. False! By the time this was served, we were stuffed. The duck was borderline dry but tasty, however, the cilantro rice for me was the highlight of this dish...delicious! Service could be better. I didn't like how our server was a bit pushy resulting in us ordering too much. The rice dishes can be heavy so just keep that in mind when placing your order. Since we were on the 2nd floor, we had to wait when someone comes up to ask for something or for our glasses to be refilled. Overall, I'm a fan of what Chef Zarate brings to the table here and wouldn't mind ordering the scallops, mussels, paella, and bistek all over again. A fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines? Who knew!? 4.5 stars!
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Marissa的5星評語： We were fried-chickened-out 3 days into our trip so for our last dinner in town, we went the Spanish route and ditched our plan for its sister restaurant Tasty N Sons. Having had brunch at Tasty n Alder already (also coming from the same family), we were inclined to have any other cuisine but American at this point. We were promptly seated at the counter with a view of the open kitchen upon walking in. Reservations are only for parties 6 or more so we considered ourselves fairly lucky that night. Our server was fantastic and had a warmth about her that made us feel very welcomed. We appreciated that. With a few sips in with my gin and tonic while my better half, his IPA, our tapas slowly trickled in starting with the BARCELONA PILLOW KISS ($2.50ea). They're literally a bite of manchego pillow, jamon, and olive oil chili which would have made for a perfect complimentary amuse bouche. Too bad it wasn't because I thought it was pretty forgettable unlike the OCTOPUS a la Plancha ($9) that was superbly grilled until tender. Wanting those tentacles in a bigger portion was the only problem I saw and that's not a bad thing. SQUID INK PASTA ($15) came next and that was my highlight of the night. Exuding a beautiful anchovy flavor plus a silky coating from the egg yolk, each strand of that black pasta was such a delight to chew on especially when you come across a crunch from the hazelnuts mixed in. For our final dish, I present to you PAELLA TORO BRAVO ($24). We had to take a moment to take in such a stunning sight of orange colored rice served in a cast iron pan where pieces of mussels, clams, shrimps, and chicken adorn it. Everything tasted great but that grilled chicken was the show stopper. We agreed it tasted like "inasal", a Filipino chicken bbq from the south, only, this was a better version. Not like we needed it but Coconut Caramel Bon Bons were served on the house as we asked for the bill. I think it's safe to say we made a very wise choice in picking Toro Bravo for our last dinner in town. -
Marissa的5星評語： If Anthony Bourdain approves of this place, then it's definitely worth trekking down to. Awards and accolades are to be had. Famous chefs around the world rave of La Guerrerense. Does it prove to be worthy of the hype? Yes! A wide variation of seafood ceviche served atop a tostada is offered here and all very, very fresh. The SEA URCHIN was something I was looking forward to trying and though the spices seemed to mask the taste of it, I still found the overall flavor to be soooooo gooooood. The LINCOD was another satisfying combination that grew on me each bite I took. I found the CRAB SALAD so pleasant as it cooled my palate from all the heat with it being mayo-based and having bits and pieces of celery mixed in. But if I were to pick one that blew me away, the MIXTO is up the charts. A combination of clams, octopus, fish, shrimp, and what-have-you -- it's having all of the freshest ingredients in one. Don't even get me started with the marinade of lime and cilantro. It's the best ceviche I've had just yet. Outrageous! Covered with red orange umbrellas, this stand is normally swarmed by people just standing and eating around it. Minimal seating is available but you're better off on your feet to taste the plethora of salsa/spices that are on jars (free crackers are for the offering to try them with). I thought I could handle some heat but, wow! After this trip, I now have a new meaning of "spicy". Order and pay later is the deal here so make sure you don't forget how many you've had. $7.50 for four tostadas can't be beat! I so regret not getting a cup of oyster and octopus shooter. It looked so beautiful! Try not making the same mistake as I did. -
Marissa的5星評語： "Oh Ricky, you're so fine You're so fine, you blow my mind, hey Ricky Hey Ricky!" These fresh-from-the-fryer-Baja-style fish and shrimp tacos are worth busting a song and dance for. Enveloped with a crisp batter that brought about a crunch factor against the soft tortilla, the white fish and camaron tasted like they were just caught from the ocean that morning. Usual toppings of shredded cabbage and pico de gallo were nice and clean that some might prefer leaving the entire taco as is with no sauce added. As for me, bring on the crema, salsa verde, and of course, some habanero for that touch of spice. For about $3.50 a pop, fish, shrimp, and mixed are your only options here and though they're all excellent, the stunning camaron takes home the trophy. It's to.die.for. Thirst quenchers like Horchata and Mint Cucumber are also on the menu but the latter is most preferred by yours truly. I can now say adios to the dreadful lines at the Mexican border for those authentic Baja style tacos I so longingly crave for in Ensenada because if I may say so again, Ricky's Tacos are mind-blowing. P.S. Be sure to call to find out where the truck's exact location is before heading there. -
Marissa的5星評語： East LA is a far drive from OC but if it's good food we're talking about, I will drive to the ends of the earth if needed. With that said, every gas mileage spent to get here was well worth it. Here's what I tried: **TACO SAMPLER---You get to pick any 6 tacos on the menu: Steak Picado, Bistek en Salsa Roja, Mole Poblano, Chicharron, Chorizo, and Cochinita Pibil. You can double up if you wish. My faves? Chorizo and bistek en salsa roja! The chorizo has a nice marinade with a kick to it. Moi delisyoso! The bistek en salsa roja is like beef stew with tomato sauce. Tasty and rich in flavor. I can imagine eating this with rice..MmmmHhmmm. These are mini tacos we're talking about so the sampler is good for one person. $6.99 http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/guisados-los-angeles?select=HSYA1OE5V5LFPQ3JOEQkVw#5_1K5OwzTmNCE3FmYKUBJg **CARNITAS---This was a special for the day. Regular sized taco for $3. The whole fam loved this. Topped with some guac, expect an explosion of flavors in your mouth. **CAMARONES (shrimp)---My least favorite out of everything I tried. Covered in creamy pink sauce and some spices...it's spicy. I wish it was breaded and fried, but I guess everything here is made the guisado way. 3/5 stars. $2.75 **PESCADO (fish)---Another good one! Loved it! Not breaded and fried either. 5 stars. $2.75 http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/guisados-los-angeles?select=HSYA1OE5V5LFPQ3JOEQkVw#BNo3BZGAUbzjuIzPCR8omQ Specializing in tacos, the corn tortilla itself is made fresh daily. The texture and taste is spot on. It's really something! Their Aguas are not to be missed either. They have quite a few selections: Horchata, Jamaica, Melon, Limon, Armando Palmero (Jamaica and Limon mixed together). If you don't know which one to get, ask for samples. The Limon was a perfect thirst quencher for me on that hot day. Speaking of samples, you can do the same with the taco choices. I was surprised when the lady asked me if I wanted to try some of the meats when deciding what to get. Very cool! Wouldn't have gotten the Bistek en Salsa Roja if I didn't sample it. Thanks, lady! :) Place is quite small with a few tables that are always kept clean. Line can get long but luckily for us we came around 2pm on a Saturday just after the lunch rush. Staff here is great. They were helpful in getting us a table especially with our huge stroller. Even came to check on us if we wanted a high chair for the baby so we can eat properly when the food came. Wonderful service! Only thing I wish they did was tell us which one's which when the sampler came. I eventually figured it out so I guess that's okay. Everything else made up for it ;) Street parking. Credit card or coins accepted in meters.
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Marissa的5星評語： Shrimp and fish tacos anyone? This has become our go-to place each time we visit Ensenada. Located next to the fish market by the boardwalk, it's guaranteed you're only getting the freshest seafood fare there is. Imagine 14 tacos and a beer for a total of $18. That's dirt cheap! And you better believe it beats any taco you could find in Mexican restaurants in the US. Served very simply, it's fish and shrimp covered in beer batter, fried then wrapped in a tortilla. They leave it up to you to go crazy with all the toppings and condiments they have on each table. Other offerings are available but we come here mainly for the tacos. Shrimp aka camaron for me please! Trust me, you can't go wrong with that. Queso camaron is another thing to try with shrimp cooked in garlic, no batter, and then paired with Mexican cheese. It's also delisyoso. The fish is a popular item in our group and I can't blame them. Moist and flaky inside with a nice batter, ooh la la! 5 shrimp and 2 fish tacos is my normal order and I'm ready to explode by then. Stick with 4 if you have a normal appetite but don't fret, if you feel like you need more, you can add on later as it comes out fast. Kudos to the staff for being so quick and efficient. We're never less than 12 people in our party when we come and they seem to always serve us with ease, even having multiple checks at that. They speak english and accept USD. El Norteño is muy bueno! -
Marissa的5星評語： I have the best friends in the world. For my birthday, I was spoiled rotten because I got to pick my choice of restaurant and got treated to one fine dinner. Chef Amar Santana, known by many from this season's Top Chef or by OC locals as owner of Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, has extended his horizons and opened up a Spanish tapas place. It has only been a month since Vaca opened its doors and already his followers are crowding the new "it" place, for very good reason. Three things: come with two or more friends, make a reservation, and bring $7 for valet. Everyone knows tapas are meant to be shared family-style. With a wide array of mouthwatering options to choose from, prepare to splurge as these small plates add up fast. In a heartbeat I picked the ERIZOS CON HUEVO ($16) as I eat anything with uni - in this case, uni with scrambled eggs on toast. This was a masterpiece to be had and it's such a shame extra crostinis were denied of us from the kitchen. The PULPO A LA GALLEGA ($13) was another treat. The octopus was lightly seasoned with paprika and olive oil, but the bonus was the melt-in-your mouth texture, for sure. I was glad I chose the BRUSELAS ($10) for our greens. Who knew brussel sprouts paired so deliciously with chorizo? If you like bold flavors, you will love this dish. We got two paella dishes for our mains. Obviously a much generous portion than the tapas so this is where it helps to have friends to share with. PAELLA DE MARISCOS ($42) or seafood paella, if you will. The skillet had an abundance of clams, shrimps, mussels, and octopus mixed with saffron bomba rice - that my friends was an absolute delight. And it doesn't stop there. If that was good, the FIDEUA ($34) was even better! Next to knowing who owns this place, this dish was the reason I wanted to check out Vaca. It's toasted noodle paella instead of rice, made with squid ink and lots of calamari. The toasted almonds were a nice crunchy touch while the ginger lime aioli was a pleasant surprise to the palate. It hit all the marks - acidity, texture, flavor, portion, and authenticity. Loved it! Can't skip dessert. The CHURROS CON CHOCOLATE was reminiscent of my sweet tooth bliss in Barcelona but really, just three tiny pieces of churros? I liked that the FLAN was not overly sweet, however, the best thing about it is, it's on the house for my birthday. Lastly and my least favorite was the TRES LECHES. The cake was a little too dense and somewhat dry IMO. I'm hoping that was just a bad batch. The effort is there, only, I've had better. Vaca means "cow" in Spanish so I truly see the need to come back and try their steak. I repeat, "need". It's also hard to miss all the "jamon" encased in glass by the open kitchen. I have my eyes on the Iberico. With great food, lively and modern ambiance, learned staff, plus you'll get a chance to meet Chef Amar like we did, what's not to like? As that may be icing on my cake, I take greater pleasure in knowing that the culinary scene in OC is working its way up.
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Marissa的5星評語： Colombian empanadas for the win!!! Open 24 hours. Be it breakfast, lunch, dinner, or after some late night drinking, this joint is sure to please! I've been here twice and on the 1st occasion was for breakfast when the crowd was more wholesome and the 2nd time was late at night when they're probably the busiest and everyone's drunk and loud--all in good fun! My favorites? BANANA PLANTAIN CHIPS W/ GUACAMOLE DIP is a must-try when you're here. The chips had a beautiful crisp and the guac was just amazeballs! I've never had it this way before but it works. Brilliant! As for the empanadas, I've tried almost everything but there's three that really stood out for me. Number 1 is the VIAGRA! It's their seafood empanada with shrimps, scallops, and crabmeat cooked in mama's stew. Not sure why it's called that but it was simply sublime. It was bursting with flavors and the crust...oh my! The empanada crust is perfectly made. The texture, taste, smell...everything about it is beautiful! My second favorite will have to go to the CHORIZO corn flour empanada. You'll have to order this to understand how good it is. You must! And lastly, the SPICY CHICKEN takes number 3 on my list. If you like some heat then this is definitely for you. It has a pretty strong kick to it which I really enjoyed. Moi bueno! Don't forget to eat the empanadas with the salsa. The green one is the best if you ask me. I wish I had the chance to try their sangria but maybe on my next visit. I did get the chance to try their papaya milkshake which was delightful. Yum! The place is rather small and narrow but the food is worthy of a visit. The people working here are personable and attentive. All the more reason you should come try it out. I love you, Empanada Mama!!! 'Til we meet again... -
Marissa的5星評語： Chimichurri anyone?! Food here is good but the real highlight when coming to Lala's is their phenomenal Chimichurri! One dip of it with your bread and you'll be hooked! I'm telling you. I've come here numerous times telling myself to go easy on the bread and dip so as not to spoil my dinner but that hardly ever works out for me. You can buy this to-go if you're interested-- $7 for 9oz and $9 for 12oz. 2nd best thing here is their SANGRIA! Oh yeah baby! I always order a pitcher of this..to share, of course! ;) Perfect accompaniment to your dinner or just the bread and Chimichurri. It's a must! Their specialty here is mainly their steaks. They have quite a few options but the one I usually get is the Entrana Al Champignon. It's Certified Angus skirt steak topped with mushrooms sauteed in light red wine cream sauce served with a side of mashed potatoes (or fries). If you want a better quality meat, get the Lomo Lala's which is cooked exactly like the Entrana. Now for those who prefer white meat, they also have the chicken version of this and it's called Al Champignon. From salads, seafood dishes, pastas, vegetarian dishes, to kids' menu options, their menu is so extensive that anyone will find something they'll like here. Don't forget to get the PANQUEQUE DE BANANA CON DULCE DE LECHE for dessert! It's warm caramel crepe with bananas...mmhhmm...scrumptious! With that said, Lala's is a perfect place for a get-together with friends. I've been here to celebrate special occasions with a large party and on a few instances to just hang out with a few girlfriends over a pitcher of sangria and some appetizers. They do take reservations if you're a group of 8 or more. For smaller groups, it's first come first serve only so expect a wait especially on weekends. Service is decent. It's always busy when I'm here but never had any complaints on that department. Street parking only...it's LA! -
Marissa的4星評語： A lovely tapas place with an intimate yet lively feel, a rustic interior with a modern twist, and a patio that greets you with ethereal lighting as you walk in is just what the OC Mart Mix needs. Enter Pueblo. It was the perfect rendezvous for a girl's night out to celebrate my birthday. I wouldn't recommend it for large parties but a date night and maybe a third wheel would certainly be fitting. Why? Well, the place is literally cute in size and everyone knows "tapas" means small dishes. With that said, a group of 3 would be perfect to try a good variety of plates. What caught my attention on this beautiful evening was the QUESO FUNDIDO ($9) which had the right balance of charred goat cheese, notes of black truffle, and the subtle sweetness of honey that once paired with the crostinis, a bite will leave you wanting more. The shortrib crudo AKA MONTADITO DE COSTILLA ($14) is a must-try unless hours of braised meat topped with marmalade and sweet onion atop a crisp and buttery toast is not your thing. With 6 pieces on one plate, 2 each for me and the girls were adequately satisfying. For Chef Michael Campbell's twist on a surf and turf, we had the MAR Y MONTANA ($13). Each component was nicely done starting with the pork belly that's roasted to crisp perfection and very reminiscent of a dish back home we call "lechon kawali". The clams and the sweet potato cream were both delicious but IMO, each ingredient here did not need each other. I could just eat the pork belly with rice and be a happy camper. As some dishes soared, some also failed. I found myself looking for more lamb flavor from the Albondigas de Cordero ($11). The fried oysters ($11) were subpar that even the cauliflower puree could not redeem with its almost non-existent taste. Their fried calamari ($12) on the other hand is nothing extraordinary, but I did enjoy the squid ink aioli it came with. Check their boards for their charcuteria specials. We lucked out with JAMON IBERICO for that day so we ordered it. Initially they gave us Jamon Serrano which is worlds apart from the finest ham there is. They apologetically replaced this with the right one and though it was heavenly, Joel Robuchon's Jamon Iberico de Bellota ruined me as that was life-alteringly sensational. Adam, one of the managers, was kind enough to have us choose two desserts of our choice to make up for their mistake and gladly we picked the PAN DE CHOCOLATE and his favorite, GOAT CHEESE CHEESECAKE. Now, we're talking! Imagine a toast topped with pure decadence of this Spanish chocolate drizzled with some nuts for that savory surprise. But the best dessert goes to the cheesecake. Consistency was very similar to that of a panna cotta and everyone knows how much I love panna cottas, not to mention the candied figs and homemade granola that brought this sweet and salty dessert to a different level. I'm not a cheesecake fan but their version of it made me a convert. Easily the best thing I ate here! Service was great considering they're fairly new. You can tell they're working hard at pleasing their guests and I appreciate that. With free corkage on your 1st bottle and $20 thereafter, it's another plus on my book. I will be back!
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Marissa的4星評語： This charming little spot has already captured many DTSA fans out there. It's one of the long standing establishments that has survived when others were closing shop. After spending an evening of debauchery with good friends here, I've become fond of Lola Gaspar and what it brings to the table. Small plates are what they're known for as well as intriguing cocktails that make you want to go down the list to try everything. Plus, they have beers on tap. I kicked off the night with a glass of HUCKLEBERRY ($11) where bourbon, grapefruit press, and salted wildflower honey all married well as it made me think of autumn with every sip I took. I decided to go the tropical paradise route for my next drink, PINA COLADA ($11) to be exact, which obviously brought memories of summer. You may have to ask the bartender for this as it is not on the menu. Fresh pineapple juice, rum, and a sprinkle of cinnamon powder made this one a winner. To nosh on, BACON WRAPPED DATES ($11) is a sure shot for any bacon lover or for those who love sweet and salty notes in one bite like I do. The dates and blue cheese have this pleasant juxtaposition effect that leaves you satiated with its richness. What I love more though is the SPANISH OCTOPUS ($13) with sausages and avocado slices. The pulpo was tender to the bite and simply delicious with all its accompaniments together. And for munching the night away as you sip your libation, you can't go wrong with their GUAC ($12) served with savory and spicy salsas and warm tortilla chips. Lola Gaspar is another reason why I may find myself in DTSA more often than not. -
Marissa的4星評語： One of my favorite local restos! Been coming here over the years for special occasions, company lunches, and for bringing in guests from out of town. From great meat choices fresh off the grill to the wide array of fresh selections at their salad bar, there's something for everyone here. A few other items on the buffet to choose from are the garlic rice, black beans, mashed potatoes, collard greens, and seafood items such as grilled salmon, mussels, or clams (depending on what's fresh that day). Waiting for you at your table would be a plate of sweet banana seasoned with some cinnamon and a basket of cheese bread. Love, love, love both of these items. It's just a shame they only put 4 breads in there but hey, it's all you can eat so keep asking for refills. The sirloin cap and lamb chops are my top favorite meats here so I normally skip out on the rest. Nonetheless, I keep my card on GREEN to keep the meat coming just to see if there's something that looks appetizing to me. Just FYI, lamb chops are served only at dinner time. It's a bit too pricey if you ask me but with good food, great service, and nice ambiance...it's always a wonderful dining experience when you come here. -
Marissa的4星評語： My plate of food weighed 2lbs. Does it also mean I'm gaining that much when I devour it? Just a thought. This little nook happens to be the only reason why I used to visit the Farmers Market at The Grove back when I used to live in LA. Fogo De Chao was just not possible on a regular basis so for us on a budget, we considered Pampas Grill as heaven sent, especially since the going rate was a few dollars less than the current $11.85/lb. Without the ambiance and without the guilt of over-eating, this place will do when the craving for Brazilian BBQ hits. Prepare to stand in line on weekends. It has the self-service cafeteria system where you grab a plate and then pile on your salad, hot dishes, and then request from the gauchos what meat you prefer. Weigh your plate (not yourself), then pay. A few tips: Go easy on the hot dishes especially if you're there for the churrasco. The stroganoff may look appetizing but I always regret getting that. Do get the cheese balls, plantains, garlic rice, and of course - PICANHA, AKA sirloin cap which is the most popular cut in any churrascaria. I can never be tired of this place. -
Marissa的4星評語： A great addition to DTLA is the newest branch of Guisados. It's bigger, it's nicer, but parking is all the same. Can't win 'em all, eh? All tacos are $2.75 except for the seafood ones which are $3 each. I suggest the sampler with 6 mini tacos for $7.25 if it's your first time (fish and shrimp not included). Variety is always good unless you already know what you like. As for me, full portions it is! The COCHINITA PIBIL is my #1 choice out of all the tacos. It's shreds of pork doused in a sweet savory red sauce with black beans underneath and pickled onions on top for that added crunch. Spicy lovers will revel with all the heat the habanero has in store in every bite. Not enough kick? Go up a level or two more, but do so with caution. CHORIZO is Mexican sausage where the green serrano chile only tickles your palate however, with black beans underneath and red onions on top, it's party in your mouth, baby! BISTEK EN SALSA ROJA will have you moan with its robust flavors. The tender pieces of flank steak that's cooked in tomatoes and red peppers has a sweet note to it and is then sealed with the creaminess from the avocado and black beans. PESCADO aka fish tacos. I normally prefer the breaded and fried ones but theirs is white fish grilled to perfection, again with black beans, but this time it's the cilantro cream that did it for me. Good stuff! QUESADILLA w/ CHORIZO was fantastic! Ordering this was an afterthought but I have no regrets whatsoever as I found a favorite here. Queso panela (Mexican cottage cheese) grilled and paired with chorizo for an extra $1.50. Can I say, muy delicioso?! Must-get! While everything tasted good, I did not have the blown away experience similar to that when I went to their Boyle Heights location a year or so ago. Maybe it's the novelty? Plus, I thought their masa tortilla was too thick over here. Then again, if I were to rave about something, I will have to praise them for the best damn HORCHATA, ever. -
Marissa的4星評語： Who would have thought you could find Elote, Shrimp Wontons, Lomo Saltado, Galbitang, and Truffle Fries all from one menu? Hailing from a mix of cuisines such as Mexican, Chinese, Peruvian, Korean, and American respectively, you'd think this restaurant must be going through some serious identity crisis, like a jack of all trades. The thing is, it only applies if everything is mediocre with nothing standing out. Luckily, The Vox Kitchen specializes in fusion. Dishing out a killer Asian WINGS ($9.5) dish that's loaded with garlic in the flavor department, they could have easily given PokPok a run for their money if they survived LA's culinary scene. Their LOMO SALTADO ($15) beats other Peruvian restos which I thought were good prior to my visit here. They nailed keeping the fries crispy despite being mixed with the sauce and meat. I wish they asked how I wanted my steak cooked as it was served too rare, but nonetheless, they remedied it quickly in a manner so smooth. The overall taste was simply superb and turned out to be everyone's top dish at our table. I could never resist getting more carbs so enter GARLIC NOODLES w/ PRAWNS ($13). It was jam packed with flavor from every al dente strand of pasta to the charred succulent prawns. And that secret dipping sauce..what was that about? Delicious. For this type of food and pricing, I was hoping for an ambiance more sophisticated and apt for an evening with libations. How can they not serve alcohol? Ok, enough whining. For now, this casual joint is worthy of a return visit if I'm in the mood for some of this, some of that, and everything good. Make sure to check-in on Yelp for a free watermelon drink. -
Marissa的4星評語： Still my favorite Cuban place in OC! It's close to home and serves pretty darn authentic dishes like no other. They take reservations making this place perfect for big groups. My absolute favorite thing to order here would be their SAUTEED OXTAIL. It's cooked in tomato based creole sauce with Cuban spices served up with rice and plantains on the side. If you're a meat lover and haven't had oxtail meat before, you're missing out. It's nothing weird or exotic-looking. Really looks like regular meat except that it's stuck to the bone, almost like ribs, making it extra tasty and flavorful. If cooked right, it's supposed to be fall-off-the-bone tender. My last visit here was not like that though. I was a bit disappointed with the tough meat. The kitchen may be having a bad day because they've always delivered this dish to perfection time and time again. I'm not losing hope and will still order this next time I'm here though. Their plantains are a whole different story. They come as a side on most dishes but I always get an extra order of these babies. Very ripe, fried, and covered with a nice caramelized coating, it's too hard not to get addicted to them. If you're in the mood for some poultry, their ROASTED GARLIC CHICKEN is the winner. One order is half a chicken so it's ginormous! Prepare to get oozed out with its juicy goodness infused with lots and lots of garlic plus a touch of zest. Ahhhhhhh! So good! Other things worth trying would be their ROPA VIEJA which is shredded meat with green/red bell pepper and the LENGUA which is beef tongue. Both entrees come in classic Cuban tomato sauce and a side of rice, plantains, and beans like most other dishes. You simply can't skip on dessert because their TRES LECHES, as one of my friends say, "is the best dessert ever made!" He'll eat this everyday if he can, along with their plantains but to bring it down a notch to reality, the white cake is not out of this world sweet and is soaked beautifully with milk. It's one legit wet white cake, I'd say. Service has always been decent on all my visits except for the most recent one when our check was given to us without them asking if we wanted dessert. And we wanted dessert! For this and the tough oxtail, I'm docking off one star from perfection. -
Marissa的4星評語： Prepare to stand in line at this little hole in the wall that's already established a name in San Diego when it comes to tacos. There is no seating available inside because really, there is no room for that. You walk in and you'll be met with a counter where behind it is the kitchen in full view. To my pleasant surprise, albeit the tiny shack, they are able to add a restroom in there for patrons. That's a big plus because who likes having sticky hands that smell like fish and salsa? That said, don't miss out on the battered FISH TACOS ($1.99) as those were pretty amazing and probably what makes them famous. Their very tangy FISH CEVICHE ($5.25) was a good appetizer to munch on while waiting on our order as these were already pre-made. I wish they would add more tortilla chips though. Their SURF n TURF ($4.60) was a mix of grilled shrimp and steak but to me it was no match to the SHRIMP & CHORIZO ($4.65). That, my friends, is what will keep me dreaming of Oscar's. An abundance of grilled shrimp mixed with chorizo in a spicy tomatillo sauce, this taco was screaming flavor across the board - an absolute must-have. Wash it all down with Mexican Coke and you'll know this meal was worth the trek down to San Diego. -
Marissa的4星評語： After spending an afternoon at Torrey Pines, all we could think of eating were tacos. We knew we were in an area where options for that abound so I browsed through my Yelp bookmarks and found The Taco Stand not too far from us. A line out the door greeted us but it wasn't as bad compared to when it doubled after we were done eating. Mind you, it makes a big difference coming before the dinner rush. The line leads directly to the counter where you place your order. I noticed the same guy at the register was also taking phone-in orders which was part of the reason for the delay. Luckily, the kitchen was quick in dishing out food so stay close so you can hear them yell out your name. If you are a battered fish tacos fan, you simply can't go wrong with the BAJA ($2.89). I got two of those and rightly so because the fish was nice and flaky with a crisp fried coating. With cabbage, cilantro, tomatoes, onions, and chipotle sauce, this was easily annihilated by yours truly. The CAMARON ($3.49) which I prefer battered and fried was grilled but that didn't matter. Why? Well, first of all, it was spicy, it also has avocado, but more importantly, that layer of fried cheese was such a pleasant surprise underneath the shrimp - I could munch on that all by itself. For my 4th and best taco here, let me introduce you to the BARBACOA ($3.29). It's not on the regular menu but under "Specials of the Day". Lamb meat that tastes like it's been simmered in a tomato based stew for hours is what you'll find wrapped in tortilla with avocado, cilantro, and onions - all star players that I'm so fond of. Needless to say, this was a home run for me. The Taco Stand didn't disappoint. Too bad they don't have a restroom or even just a sink to wash your hands after getting all messy. -
Marissa的4星評語： Situated just across Espanola Way which is swarmed with a plethora of options for Latin cuisine, this unassuming bakery could give those tourist traps a run for their money. I only had their BEEF EMPANADAS which was highly recommended by the lady behind the counter and for very good reason. These puff filled pastries reminded me so much of what I can get from the famed Porto's Bakery in SoCal. With a nice flaky crust, eaten fresh or days later, the empanadas held so well. I really loved the savory beef filling that I thought they tasted equally or even better than the sausage filling from Porto's potato balls. So glad we stumbled upon this place while walking along Washington Ave. -
Marissa的4星評語： Our go-to for Peruvian food! Here's what you should get when you're here: 1. Lomo Saltado--The most popular Peruvian dish where no other place can perfect except here at Casa Inka! Beef strips sauteed with red onions and tomatoes served with white rice and french fries. One of the best I've had...ever! $12.99 http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/casa-inka-fountain-valley?select=LmVPr9Wv-x8q8C28j1wSdg#UisJqZLGm53dKQhsm6fdpg 2. Tacu Tacu--Charbroiled steak served on a plate with rice and beans mixed together with some spices and topped with sunny side up egg. Plantains and chimichurri sauce on the side. Great dish! The steak is nicely cooked and has good flavor. The rice seems mushy because of the beans so it took me a while to appreciate it but I guess it all works with everything on the plate. The plantains are simply addicting while the chimichurri sauce is what makes this dish extra special! Yummm... $13.99 http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/casa-inka-fountain-valley?select=uj1doZvxx6nMWOxIPI85ng#pxTFJi8zgDU0CeChvwVjGw 3. Tallarin Saltado--Pasta version of the lomo saltado so no rice and french fries. I used to love this dish but after our last visit, I was really disappointed with the flavor. It just wasn't the same as how they made it the last couple times we've been here. I would still recommend it if you haven't tried it before because it's still good. Not the best but worthy of trying. $12.99 http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/casa-inka-fountain-valley?select=LmVPr9Wv-x8q8C28j1wSdg#po4iPR7vMZ1jza4GPwmIXQ 4. Seafood Paella--Peruvian paella is different from Spanish and Cuban versions so don't compare. Huge serving! Seafood is fresh, rice is cooked perfectly, and the seasoning is flavorful. Try it! $18.99 PROS: --Wonderful service! Prompt and attentive. --Complimentary garlic bread with green and red (spicy) dipping sauce is awesome! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/casa-inka-fountain-valley?select=LmVPr9Wv-x8q8C28j1wSdg#UOcbFIzyYgGOLhusHHh8DA --Kid's meal is pretty hefty. My daughter ordered shrimp pasta for $7.99 and could only finish half of the plate. I ate the rest at home the next day. Not bad at all! http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/casa-inka-fountain-valley?select=uj1doZvxx6nMWOxIPI85ng#ULdOq21L_GBTNlShOUublg --Spacious restaurant so it's good for kids and large parties --Takes reservations --Parking is ample CON: --Dishes can be inconsistent. I was a bit disappointed on my last visit but I'm not giving up hope. Yelp Check-in offer: $2 off every $15 spent. Wowza! -
Marissa的4星評語： I've never had grilled corn this way before and I must say, it's really something! Covered with lots of cheese, some chili powder, and maybe some crack for all I know but one bite and I was hooked! Don't forget to squeeze some lime on it for a touch of zest. It's awesome that they have this to-go area separate from the actual cafe because I did come here just for the corn. They have a few tables inside and counter seating by the windows but really small place. The girl behind the counter who took my order was nothing but pleasant and friendly. I felt right at home. Major plus! You have to come out and try their corn. I highly recommend it! -
Marissa的4星評語： A new taqueria has taken over this red-bricked establishment yet again. This time I hope El Indio Botanas y Cerveza will have a different fate from previous businesses because I like their Taco Tuesday here. With an in-house DJ blasting 80's music, a taco guy in one corner making $1 tacos, and a bar serving Mexican craft beers for $5/glass, there's no reason not to be a fan. The deal is self-service, at least for Tuesday nights, so be ready to scout for an empty table because the place was packed when we went. Patio seating is available and would be great for spring or summer weather. Order your drinks at the bar and pay for your tacos there as well. You will be given tickets which you can use to claim your tacos from the taco station. Barbacoa, chicharones, chorizo, mole, and pollo were what I got. I do remember enjoying the heat from the chicharones though it's borderline almost too spicy. Barbacoa and mole were not shabby either. Looks like my fondness for DTSA has an added culprit. -
Marissa的4星評語： If you're like me and don't want to dent the wallet on Mexican food, your best bet in trying Rick Bayless' Red O is to come during OC Restaurant Week. I came for lunch which was $20 vs the dinner for $50 a head with exactly the same menu. First of all, don't forget to check-in for a free order of guacamole for the table to share. This goes well with their fresh and warm chips served gratis. I would warn you to go easy on that but that may deem useless after you have one bite. I went with the DUCK TAQUITOS for my 1st course. Presented with wild baby arugula on top, the taquitos had a good snap as I tried to get to the slow-roasted leg of duck meat which was jam-packed in those taquito shells. I thought the tomato-arbol chile sauce was tasty and tied everything together, and I liked that the duck wasn't as fatty as I expected it to be. I did try the GOAT CHEESE TAMALES which my table mate ordered making me wish I got those instead. I'm normally not a tamales fan but that dish made me one. Loved the corn flavor shining through without sacrificing the goat cheese. Who knew these two paired like milk and honey! CARNITAS for my mains was a heaping plate of meat swimming in orange-guajillo chile sauce with ayocote beans, topped with jicama-citrus salad. You can tell the shreds of pork was slow-roasted for hours. It's unfortunate the sauce was underwhelming. A little kick would have done wonders. After having a piece of grilled BARRAMUNDI fish smothered with chimichurri, in a heartbeat I wanted to steal the plate from across me. That, my friends, was a killer dish. Dessert sealed us on a jiggly and lightly sweet note with their FLAN DE CARAMELO. This was served with two pieces of chocolate cake which everyone on the table thought didn't work well with the flan. But that flan by itself though...superb! All that food in a lavishly exotic setting plus a service that was impeccable, my $20 was well worth every penny.
