Restaurants – Page 10 – Insider Irene

California Roadtrip: Wine and Dine in Paso Robles (The Napa Valley of Southern California)

Published on April 3, 2017September 1, 2017 by Insider IreneLeave a comment

Napa Valley is a well known popular travel destination for wine connoisseurs in the Bay Area. With acres of grapes and hundreds of vineyards to tour, it’s a wine-o’s dream vacation. Yet, those in the know flock to another California favorite with equally picturesque rolling hills and less tourist traction than the former. Paso Robles is a Southern California hidden gem with spectacular food and wine.

With over 200 wineries in the area it can be quite intimidating on deciding where to go. However, after extensive research we decided on Calcareous Vineyards in part because yelp offered a complimentary wine tasting upon check-in, and there were many positive reviews on the amazing view. I think we scored he jackpot on that account. 🙂
When we arrived we were given four samples (one white and three reds) and took home the 2014 Calcareous Chardonnay and the 2013 Devil’s Canyon Syrah. The Chardonnay is sweet with fruity notes whereas the later is more gritty and bitter with a heavier tobacco accent.

Good wine and food makes a winning combination and the Golden Oak Grill is a great establishment that serves fine dinning cuisine at an affordable price-point. We visited during lunch and ordered the Goat Cheese Salmon Salad ($13) and BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich ($12) with sweet potato upgrade. You can tell that the chef really takes pride in the food he prepares as the presentation of each dish is meticulously executed. And yes I can confirm with you that the food tastes just as good as it looks. I will definitely return here in a heartbeat and can’t wait to try other items on the menu.

Do you prefer Red or White wine?

XOXO,

Rockstar

California Roadtrip: How to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium for FREE plus cheap eats!

Published on March 27, 2017March 19, 2017 by Insider Irene1 Comment

My friend and I took our rental and headed towards Monterey Bay – home of the world famous aquarium. I remember visiting the aquarium back as a child, but with adult admission circling the $50 range, I had a hard time convincing myself to make it a pitstop on this road trip. But I was able to kill two birds with one stone, by booking a local air bnb room with complimentary tickets! Sweet!

Just an FYI, many of the local air bnb lodging will provide this incentive to attract visiting guests.

After my friend and I checked into our airbnb space to pick up tickets we headed towards Cannery Row. There’s certainly a great deal of things to see, hear and touch and as an educator I especially loved learning about all the different sea creatures.

The aquarium is divided by themes spread across two floors. We were recommended to start on the west wing and work our way towards the east as it’s home to the new exhibit – Tentacles (yes!!! octopuses! :D).

Penguins, sea otters, sharks, sea turtles, you name it and they probably have an exhibit dedicated to it. My favorite was the jellyfish exhibits. They’re just so graceful and calming. Combined with the serene music that they play in the background you just can’t help but feel at peace.

We finished the aquarium in about three hours and spent the rest of our late afternoon and early evening walking around Cannery Row and enjoyed the sunset.

Now a post wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t give a recommendation on a hidden gem and this one is definitely a must especially if you love carbs!

When we punched in directions and headed towards Palermo Bakery we were surprised by the industrial exterior. You would never think to go here as it looks like a warehouse. There was no cash register, menu, na-da! It’s straight up bread factory. Regardless, we went in bright and early in the morning to see their offering. They sold everything from sourdough, to dinner rolls to entire loafs. My friend and I each bought a loaf for $2.40 a piece since our next destination is considered the SoCal Napa Valley. Stay tuned for my next post to find out where!

What’s a must see local attractions in Monterey Bay?

XOXO,

Rockstar

California Roadtrip: Wake up San Francisco!

Published on March 20, 2017March 13, 2017 by Insider Irene1 Comment

Visiting the Golden State would be incomplete without a photo with the Golden Gate Bridge. However, capturing this iconic panoramic view from this perspective is one that out of town visitors seldom uncover.

I’ll be honest, this shot is a bit of hike (literally) and you can’t just drive here, but it’s definitely worth it – and that’s coming from someone who hates exercising! My friend and I left our rental at a local bart station and took Lyft to the beginning of the Lands End Trail. Be sure to stretch and wear comfortable shoes! Your thighs and calves will thank me later!

The trail is relatively easy for a novice outdoor girl like myself and the spectacular view makes it a noteworthy trip. The hike is about 1.5 miles and many moderately fit people can complete it within an hour. You could go here to relax and enjoy the scenery or watch the sun rise or set. Either way it’s a great place add on your travel agenda! To learn more about this trail click here.

What’s your must see attraction in SF?

XOXO,

Rockstar

California Roadtrip: Brunch and other hidden gems in Oakland!

Published on March 13, 2017March 13, 2017 by Insider IreneLeave a comment

I’m starting up my travel series again! Who’s excited?! 😀 This time I focused on some of the smaller cities in the Golden State (with some larger cities sprinkled in) and went from top to bottom. First stop Oakland…

Now when you think of Northern California you probably don’t think of Oakland as your first travel destination; however, if you’re looking for something off the beaten path and some really awesome locale fare you should bookmark the Lake Merritt area (aka “The Lake”). Grand Lake Kitchen is a popular brunch joint and for good reason. The wait time was a good hour and a half! Luckily the area has some great attractions to help pass the time AND they text you when your table is ready. Sweet!

Right across the street is Lake Merritt and the Lakeside Park, a great place to just take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The landscape is breathtaking and my photos don’t do it justice. Just imagine yourself walking your dog or going for a leisure jog.

Across the Lake there’s a small area called the Cleveland Cascade – the ideal place to complete all your staircase workouts. I saw a number of individuals in fitness gear running up and down the staircase. I wasn’t quite prepared for a workout, but my friend and I did one round before heading back to the restaurant.

After perusing through the menu, I ordered their signature Savory French Toast ($14) as it came highly recommended. Served with Rye bread, two poached eggs, fresh arugula, and assorted mushrooms this unique take on a brunch classic is a home-run. The bread was a perfect base for the runny egg yolk to soak into and the greens complimented the dish perfectly. Perfect way to start my morning and I highly recommend getting this dish!

I read some reviews on their orgasmic Pork Belly Hash dish, but heard that they no longer served it. *gasps* So my friend and I decided to try the next best thing – Pork and Polenta with an overeasy egg ($16). It was certainly a tasty dish with complex flavors but I can’t wait to try some of their other offerings!

Overall this area is a great family friendly one and I can’t wait to come back! What are some other Oakland destination must see and/or eat?

XOXO,

Rockstar

Miss Taiwanese World fundraises with former Miss Chinatowns at the CACP Lunar New Year dinner

Published on March 6, 2017March 5, 2017 by Insider IreneLeave a comment

As Miss Taiwanese World part of my duties is to connect communities and further support education initiatives. So when I was asked to help sell raffle tickets benefiting future professional development workshops for the Chinese American Construction Professional (CACP) organization I gladly accepted the role; the event was held on a Friday evening at 888 Seafood in Rosemead. When I arrived I was introduced to several former Miss Chinatowns and together we enthusiastically promoted some amazing prizes which included a big screen tv, wine, and more to maximize raffles sales.

During this annual fundraiser guests were served a 10 course meal featuring a traditional cold plate appetizer, lobster, a whole fish, etc. The attendees savored the family style meal and their eyes were entertained by local and international performances. Some government officials also made appearances including: Councilmen Ed Chau and Congresswoman Judy Chu. The evening ended raffle winner announcements and dancing.

It was a festive and delicious way to celebrate the new year! We raised a lot of money for future programs and had a great time doing it. I hope I’ll get more opportunities to work with these beautiful ladies and support a great cause!

What’s an important cause that you’ll support this year?

XOXO,

Rockstar

Introducing Nitrolado’s Spooky New Halloween Flavors

Published on October 24, 2016October 7, 2016 by Insider IreneLeave a comment

Gelato is one of my favorite types of dessert and with Halloween coming up you know that there are going to be some eerie-sitable flavors for the month of October. Among businesses that are under the magical spell is Nitrolado (Yelp Page, Facebook Page), a local dessert shop in Garden Grove that specializes in liquid nitrogen gelato. Known for their edible churro bowls and Asian inspired flavors they’re introducing a New Halloween concept.

Available all month long gelato enthusiasts can try one of three limited edition flavors.

Coconut Lavender
Pumpkin Spice with Caramelized Candied Bacon
Blood Velvet Brownie (red velvet)

I had the 2nd option (Pumpkin Spice) and I loved it paired with salty yet sweet bites of candied bacon. It’s to die for, muahahahaha…

Starting October 24th, every night until Halloween, October 31st, from 7pm – close, patrons can also opt to upgrade for their Halloween cup complete with fog and your choice of lights to complete your spooky dessert. Bring a friend on your visit as there’s a Buy 1 Get 1 50% off anything off the menu for all guests dressed in costume from October 28th to October 30th. I’m debating between going as Chun-Li or Sailor Mars.

Nitrolado

10212 Westminster Ave #115

Garden Grove, CA 92843

(714) 722-3731

What are you dressing up as for Halloween?

XOXO,

Rockstar

Los Angeles Times – The Taste (Food and Wine event)

Published on September 9, 2016September 9, 2016 by Insider Irene1 Comment

Los Angeles is home to some of the world’s finest restaurants, so it should come to no surprise that the “City of Angels” attracts culinary geniuses from near and far to share their edible creations and delectable bites.

During Labor Day weekend, I had the opportunity to attend “The Taste” a three-day foodie extravaganza hosted by the Los Angeles Times and presented by Citibank at the Paramount Pictures Studios. The list of corporate sponsors also included: Acura, Stella Artois, and KTLA (among others). With powerhouse businesses supporting the festival you it’s going to be a star-studded one.

Over 100 food and wine vendors were presented at this event ranging from 118 Degree (vegan food) to ZRY Vodka. There was something for everyone and many of the booths boasted on their field to fork ideology in preparing their masterpieces.

I’ve been to my fair share of Tasting events, but few come to close the caliber and star-power as this event and why yes that’s a Chef Michael Cimarusti – the co-owner of Providence, Jonathan Gold’s #1 restaurant on his “101 best restaurants” list.

He shared with us his childhood favorite recipe – clam stuffing -and showed up everything from how to shuck clams to how to properly season the mixture. The interactive demonstration was both entertaining and information, but the best part was tasting the end result. I mean it was purely to ensure that the integrity of the dish remained consistent, which it did 🙂

With a DJ spinning awesome the hottest tunes, a picturesque atmosphere to enjoy the block party, and delicious food and spirits I had a fabulous time and can’t wait till next year to live it all over again. Maybe it’ll be an annual tradition.

What’s on your menu during Labor Day weekend? Hot dogs and burgers? Fine dining? Comment below.

XOXO,

Rockstar

Frugal Finds, West Coast Roadtrip: Seattle,WA (Part 2)

Published on August 5, 2016August 5, 2016 by Insider Irene1 Comment

A trip to Seattle isn’t complete without a visit to the iconic Space Needle. I also heard some amazing things about the Chihuly Garden and Glass Musuem, and with some extensive research my friend and I decided to go with the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Musuem package deal (versus buying tickets from each attraction). It’s definitely worth it in my mind.

Think about it… A single day ticket at both the Chihuly Garden and Glass Musuem and Space Needle is $22, so if you bought both it’d be $44. However, if you purchased the package deal it starts at $36 (general adult) – so you save $8. If memory serves me correctly I believe you had to pick times that you wanted to visit and the different time slots were different prices. The beginning of the day and the end of the day were the cheapest with the mid-day charging the premium. We chose to go right at the beginning of the day for three reasons

A cheaper rate
A greater opportunity to take nice photos without crowds of people and
Good lighting for photos

Alternatively you could also go with the CityPass which allows tourists to visit 5 attractions for $74.

But first we went to Lola, a local breakfast spot with a national reputation. Featured on Food Network, Chef and TV Host Giada De Laurentiis raved about the fresh and made to donuts on the “Best Thing I Ever Ate – Fried Food Edition.” I generally like to start my day with something savory so I went for one of their most popular dishes the Eggs benedict and smashed potatoes.

The entree was quite substantial and easily could feed two people. The Bavarian ham was on the saltier side, but the poached eggs were perfect and I popped it open to allow my crispy potatoes soak in the ooey gooey magic. I was extremely full even though I only ate one portion. It’s a $20 dish and they add a 20% gratuity on all items.

With bellies full we took a short stroll and headed towards the Space Needle. We gave our ticket printout to the greeter and bypassed a huge portion of the line (mainly school groups taking a class field trip). I think that’s another advantage of buying a ticket early on.

We were then directed to the elevator and flew up 605 floors until we hit the observation deck. The sight was beautiful and it’s definitely a destination that all tourists should visit at least once. After a few shots and selfies we walked around the deck and headed down.

The Chihuly Garden and Glass Musuem is absolutely a must see destination. The glass blown masterpieces are breath-taking and while I think I captured the essence of their beauty I think everyone NEEDS to see this in person. Photos and words can’t really express how glorious and exquisite these art pieces are.

Within the museum each room is dark and reflects a certain theme. I think the under-the-sea rooms were my favorite as I felt as if I was swimming with the little mermaid, but each exhibit had a charm that really could appeal to anyone.

After you finish the museum interior you are invited to the gardens where they infuse flowers with glass sculptures. It’s so majestic and I’m convinced that when I win the power-ball I’d want this Dale Chiluly (the glassworks artist) to design my backyard. But until then this museum definitively tops my list on one of the best places to visit in Seattle.

Do you have a favorite place to visit in Seattle? Leave a comment.

XOXO,

Rockstar

Frugal Finds, West Coast Roadtrip – Seattle, WA (Part 1)

Published on August 3, 2016August 5, 2016 by Insider IreneLeave a comment

Oregon was a great state to visit (click on the hyperlink for Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4 for those entries) with fresh air and the slightly off the wall quirky culture, but I was ready to explore a new territory. I met up with a native Californian who recently moved here to explore this part of Seattle and suffice to say there’s a ton to do and see!

Welcome to my #SleeplessinSeattle series! where I’ll be hunting for my frugal finds and visiting some of the cities best hot spots. First destination is the Pike Place Market- home to a bazaar, the first Starbucks, and the Gum Wall!

The Pike Place Market is similar to many bazaars. There were various stalls selling food and souvenirs, but it was a nice covered area to take a nice stroll. It rains often in Seattle and while I wasn’t use to random sprinkles, I noticed that virtually no one brought umbrellas or seemed to care that it was misting. I guess I’m a fish out of water 😛

The offerings in this market showcased many local vendors and I appreciated the spirit of the entrepreneurs here. After walking through the area my stomach started to growl. Looks like it’s time to eat!

I saw a crowd of people in front of what looked like a bakery. It was called Piroshky Piroshky, hmm. What’s a piroshky? I figured with a long line that it was worth checking out. While perusing through my phone I found out that that this Russian bakery specializes in savory pastries. My friend and I decided to split a Beef and Cheese piroshky and you know it sorta tastes like a Chinese beef bao but with an American bread. Ha! I enjoyed it but was eager to try some other items.

Next we waited in line for the first Starbucks. I think the line spanned across 2 stores, but it moved relatively quickly. With the popularity of Starbucks there’s actually another nearby with zero line, but as a tourist it was obvious that a visit to Seattle is incomplete without a visit to THE Starbucks. Now I can cross it off my bucket list 🙂

With bellies relatively full we decided to further explore the area and found the gum wall, which you guessed it is a wall chalked full of gum.

Some tourists and locals would be completely grossed out by this site and as a teacher I should probably discourage what could be conceived as vandalism on the property, but I’m off duty and *gasp* I even bought a package of gum to add to the artwork. I’m such a rebel, lol

The tradition of sticking gum on the wall started around 1993 – I’m actually shocked that it’s a relatively new attraction. Personally, I think it’s a pretty cool place to leave your mark and take selfies, but each his own.

After enjoying the novel attraction my friend and I decided to try a local restaurant for Happy Hour. I did a quick search and found Chan Seattle – a local Korean and American fusion bar only a few streets up Pike’s Market Place.

Happy Hour is from 5:00pm-6:30pm and we just made it to enjoy their offerings. We sat at the bar and sampled four dishes: Fried Rice Cakes ($3), Bulgogi Beef Sliders ($6), Chicken Wings ($6), Fried Pacific Oysters ($6) to tantalize our taste buds. Flavor wise it was on the more salty and spicy side, but with a glass of beer I can imagine many patrons enjoying these tapas.

Have you visited Pike’s Market Place? What’s your favorite attraction there? Comment below.

XOXO,

Rockstar

Frugal finds, West Coast Roadtrip: Portland, OR (Part 4)

Published on August 1, 2016August 3, 2016 by Insider Irene1 Comment

Good morning Portland! Yes, most people would probably sleep in on their Saturday, but this girl definitely wanted to check out everything this city has to offer.

Our first stop was the Saturday Market – a large outdoor bazaar where local vendors and artists showcase and sell their quirky gadgets, hand-made creations, and unusual artwork with Portland flair.

Located in the historic Old Town this venue is home to over 250 vendors. As I took a stroll down each aisle I couldn’t help but smile at some of the offerings. Many of the vendors had immense Portland pride as it was evident in their products and merchandise. I bought a heather grey t-shirt with each major city’s landmark (ie. Statue of Liberty for New York, The Space Needle for Seattle etc) and at the center was a Redwood tree for Portland. It’s a great design and I always love supporting entrepreneurs – support small!

I wore the shirt later on in the trip if you’re interested see what it looks like.

I regularly visit craft fairs and festivals, but the Saturday Market here just has a really great quirky feel to it. There’s just a ton of unique items and designs. If anything this is a great place to get inspired by the inventions and for those of you who couldn’t make it on a Saturday, no worries because it’s also open on Sunday. With a name like Saturday Market, it’s quite confusing, but it’s open every weekend from March – Christmas Eve (Saturday 10:00am -5:00pm; Sunday- 11:00am -4:30pm). It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re here on the weekend.

I also completely lucked out as the weekend I visited happen to be the weekend for the “Grand Floral Parade” – the largest floral procession in the North East. See one of my instagram video’s here.

There were many participants including different branches of the military (Marines, Navy, Coast Guard), various interest groups (ie. Rotary, equestrian club) and entertainment personalities all parading down the 4.2 mile route. The flower celebration also featured various marching bands, ornate floats, and vintage cars. And what Rose Parade would be complete without a rose court. I’ll post the video on my instagram. It was a nice surprise to be a part of an annual celebration.

Next up we hit up Nong’s Kaho Mangai to sample their famous Chicken and Rice dish ($8.75). Featured on a number of media outlets including Food Network and The New York Times (just to name a few), this humble restaurant is no secret to the Portland community and with three locations it’s clear that this is a fan favorite.

The dish is a simple one, but the taste is anything but. The chicken is moist and tender and the rice is cooked in chicken broth, which really brings out a nice earthly flavor. It also comes with their signature ginger sauce to which I would slather all over my chicken and a side of soup. It’s a tasty entree and for my LA readers it’s very comparable to Savory’s Kitchen in Alhambra – although I do think I have a slight bias to enjoying the later just a tiny bit more.

How do you spend your Saturdays? Curled up in bed or out and about? Comment below!

XOXO,

Rockstar