FWIW, Cafe Viva just barely missed the cut for my book. Just wasn’t intriguing enough to be worth a trip (my guiding threshold). But it is one of the better eats in the nabe.

I’m getting a bit bummed out that we’re hearing the names of so many prototypically Zagatish Chinese picks here on this board. You know the ones. They’re so stale. Some—not all—were good once. But...

I’m not sure when it changed. I’m in Phoenix, and I pretty much always tip 20% now, no matter where in the country I am. The only minor exception would be when I’m sitting at the bar with friends. A couple of...

been suggested for late night. -Friday. Most of his day will be occupied with tux fittings, last minute bachelor party preparation, and then dinner and revelry with the boys. I’m actually super excited to explore the city on...

According to a guy who works in the liquor store across the street, the owner of The Vig had an invite only party over the weekend and that they plan on opening this Thursday, 12/21. No idea what kind of food, but can already...

Butter. :) Never, ever compromise on that one! Pie crusts are never store bought, although it has taken me a long, long time to (almost) perfect my own. I don’t skimp on any dairy either – whether it be cheese, milk,...

it tastes the way it does after you have it at a few sittings. One tasting is just not enough (especially if you don’t yet know what you’re looking for). Plus, you’ll get the case discount.

. The atmosphere is very casual and though they’ve had the same reggae mix tape on every time I’ve been there – how much No Woman No Cry can one person take – it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. A...

and show excitement as they answer, politely thank them and find someone else to query (remember: 10% of humanity are chowhounds, and the trick is to find one!). Always order spaghetti with meat sauce when it’s a menu non...

I speak only to the asian variety and in particular the Chinese inspired ones ... DUMPLING MASTER 423 N. Atlantic Blvd., #106, Monterey Park (626)458-8689 For the pan-fried pork dumplings. According to legend (of the urban variety)...

one of our recipes, but I always try to separate personal preference from a recipe that doesn’t work.

Well I guess it depends on what you mean by Trendy — if you’re looking for Stephen Starr, you’re probably going to go over your budget. Aden is in the Northern Liberties (2nd or 3rd street) and it’s...

I will preface this by saying I’m not a fan. Maybe the vegetable, maybe the preparation, but it’s one I have never prepared in my own kitchen because of my previous lacklustre cauliflower experiences. But, since it...

salt (which I bought to make Chicago style dogs for a poker party, and found I liked on almost everything – except celery) and instead of black pepper, I’m using a small jar of powdered chipotle pepper that I got from...

Street, I was hungry tonight, and on the road, so I bounced off and pulled in. I ate several items, but the one that I want to write about tonight is the pork chop sandwich. What a zany invention! Why in the name of God would you...