Too Busy To Blog

I am transitioning from the food service industry to the legal realm in the next few weeks and things are nuts. This happened not a moment too soon because waiting on people is the most stressful, tiring job in the world and I am thisclose to punching somebody out. I now understand why most of the people in the restaurant industry are serious alcoholics. All I think all day is "I need a drink." Actually, it is quite similar to the two weeks before law school exams. Hmm.

I have been dining out a lot lately and (I know this is very controversial) must say that Boucherie is damn good. I know that everyone knows about this place and how awesome it is, but I have been going since the beginning and I am happy to say that they have really gotten into quite a groove. Every single item for sale at this establishment has had much time, love, and thought put into it and it shows. There is no pretension, nothing unnecessary - just great food, wine, and cocktails prepared by people who take pride in their work. When you go, get the gnocchi special if they have it and the dessert sampler. And make a reservation or get there right at six when you will have a chance to snag a spot at the tiny bar or the tables on the porch.

 Chargrilled oysters from One.

Speaking of gnocchi, the heavenly version at One Restaurant & Lounge is back on the menu. And perfect timing because One just so happens to be running an amazing happy hour special. Half price on all appetizers and specialty cocktails (Mon thru Thurs 5 to 7). Gnocchi, chargrilled oysters, crabcakes, for around 5 bucks people! This is the deal of the century and a gift from the highest. I haven't a clue why this place is never busy because the food, the drink, the setting and the service are all fantastic.

French 75 (made with cognac) at Luke. The cocktail is my new favorite drink; the burger and fries were perfect. Nonetheless, the overall experience only reinforced my prejudiced view that the best food in New Orleans is found in my 'hood. And no, I don't feel like elaborating on that. The fans were too loud.

Camera First, Then Fork

Here is a cool New York Times article for you to read about the newest food trend.

And here is another one with a few tips on taking pictures of your food. I do it a lot and I like it. I feel weird in restaurants doing it. It doesn't stop me.

Send in any cool pictures of food you may have taken and I'll post them. Pretty please with a cherry on top. 

                                  Happy (belated) Easter!

Broke and Hungry: Babylon Cafe

Inspired by the current state of the job market, “Broke and Hungry” is the much anticipated series on this blog focusing solely on dining out on the cheap. On this inaugural post, I will venture ten blocks from home to the inconspicuous Mediterranean delight, Babylon Café.  

Right under my nose this whole time, I had always skipped Babylon Café, instead picking up some Mona’s or Lebanon’s when the mood strikes for chicken schwarma. Luckily, after asking a friend from my hood where he goes for an inexpensive dinner, I was sent here and told to order any of their sandwiches on homemade bread. 

The place is never as busy as the other Mediterranean joints in town, probably because it’s not on the busy Carrolton Ave. It’s a shame too, because the chicken schwarma is easily the best in town. Juicy, flavored just right and piled high on soft homemade bread with fresh romaine. Coupled with a spinach filo and you’ve got dinner for less than ten bucks, including tax and tip. It’s a no-brainer for those busy weeknights when you’re already so hungry you can’t even decide what to eat.  

                                          Cheap food isn't always pretty.