Eat N Wander: Maui

For every city traveled, I think back on my most delicious experiences and compile a list of my most recommended for that city. Considered a work in progress, this list will be updated and continue to grow and change as I find more memorable, tasty, share-worthy places.

Maui is the second island that I have visited in Hawaii, with Oahu being the first. And the differences were drastic it seemed. What made Maui unique to me was the fact that one minute I could be surrounded by hundreds of tourists just like myself, and the next I might be stumbling my way through nature to find a secluded beach. The natural wonders that make Maui so lovable are obvious: Haleakalā , the Road to Hana and the Seven Pools, the endless beaches. Of course, it wasn't the water that I was excited to dive into when anticipating our trip; it was the thought of local food. Practically salivating while imagining the bbq plate lunch, loco moco, spam musubi, char siu bao, and all the asian influences that I loved in Oahu, what I discovered quickly once landing was that the local food culture is influenced much more by the mainland. This wasn't a problem, but just not what I had hoped.  So, that cultural influence is something to note in the cuisine while you visit. Below are my recommendations for places to check out  for one reason or another, while indulging over on the island of Maui.

EAT N DRINK

Hali’maile:

Hali imaile General Store 
Recommended for: Lunch or Dinner

Price: Average

Tips: The location is a bit off the typical route if you are staying in Wailea, Kihei, Lahaina, so you may want to plan your visit from the airport after you land or after you spend the day in Haleakala. 
This flagship restaurant of Maui Chef Bev Gannon, now one of the 3 restaurants derived from her vision, is an adorable little plantation house nestled in the middle of pineapple fields and you will feel like you are in the middle of nowhere. With white wooden planked walls and a down-home welcome air to it, the whole space from the outside in conjures a feeling of nostalgia somehow. Perhaps not even of days you ever experienced, but visions of carefree, lazy and warm summer days that you wish you could always have. Originally opened as a deli, she was serving crowd favorites to the locals for lunch, with menus that stemmed from her catering days. Now as a full sit down restaurant, you can come for dinner and enjoy the menu's bright, colorful dishes that feel very california in their origin, with hints of global influence from latin america to asia. As they may tell you, the Sashimi Napoleon is a local favorite to start. I should also mention that it happened to be the best meal that we had all week, and our final meal on the island. And I am so glad it was.

Kapalua:
Sansei Sushi 
Recommended for: Dinner 
Price: Average to High
Tips: Can be totally packed like sardines from the minute you walk in, so make a reservation if you can! Or be prepared to spend a few bucks at the bar. The wait isn't all bad through; there's a jewelry store right in the same shopping center that will help you kill some time. They carry the most beautiful diamonds and some really great jewelry. Note: if you aren't necessarily up to blowing a hundred grand before dinner, you can always window shop and try on, say, a 10 carat canary for fun. The staff are fully supportive, and some of the kindest people I've encountered. Husbands- beware!
Everyone knows of this place, and I think every concierge will tell you that this is the best sushi on the island. And it may be, but don't go expecting traditional sushi. Because traditional, it not. Go here to be in the mix of the scene. Have some cocktails, throw back some sake and beer, and order some of their very california/americanized rolls and appetizers by the handfull.

Kaanapali:
Hula Grill
Recommended for: First Cocktail on the Island, or Happy Hour
Price: Low to Average
Super cheesy, super corporate, super tourist. But sometimes you need that. After all, you are a tourist, so don't fight the urge. This a a big restaurant with a plethora of tables directly out on the sand, so you can kick off your flops and enjoy the warn sand beneath your feet. They feature live music in the afternoon and hula early evening. Welcome to Hawaii!

Lahaina
Aloha Mixed Plate
Recommended for:  Lunch 
This is like the Disneyland of plate lunch. It's humongous with tables and tables and tables...After trying a few different places on the island and being mildly disappointed, this place fit the mold for what I was hoping for in the traditional plate lunch. Order at the counter and pick your meat, and whatever you go with, it comes with scoops of rice and mac salad. Nothing spectacular, but it will definitely get the job done and will give you your fix. Their menu includes salads and starters as well.

Maui Brewing 
Recommended for: Afternoon pit stop
Their tasting room is right in Lahaina in an unassuming area, but pretty typical for a brewery location. Check them out they were open mid afternoon 2 – 6 for some of their local tasty brews.

Mala Ocean Tavern
Recommended for: Happy Hour
Price: Average
Tips: Two words: Oyster Shooters.
Great place for a little happy hour and mid day snack, and ask for a table on the deck.


Pacific O and Pacific Io: they are right next to each other
Recommended for: Luau Dinner Show
Price: Expensive (in comparison to standard group luaus)
Tips: Bottomless Tiki Drinks with dinner.  I kid you not, it's true. They pour the liquor sparingly though, and the drinks are really sweet.  You may be challenging your blood sugar levels to drink more than 3. 
I had already been to one of those big, family filled cheezy luauas. You know, the kind you see in movies? Don't get me wrong, they are a MUST if you haven't. But for those who have, and didn't care much for the cafeteria style line up (or the steam tabled food) but still want a show, I have an alternative for you. You'll be "lei'd" on the beach just in time for a photo opp, and led to the table that was reserved just for you and your party. No communal seating. This is a sit down, plated dinner, and to mention it again, bottomless tiki cocktails. The view for the show is spectacular, as you can watch the sun set on the raised deck with the ocean as the backdrop.



Paia
Mamas Fish House
Recommended for: Dinner with Friends, Family
Price: Average to Expensive (decent potential to rack up a bill with the seafood entrees and drinks)
This is just what people do when you drive through/into Paia. It's a good memory, so I recommend it, and take a few pictures.

Eat N Wander: Ode to San Diego

For every city traveled, I think back on my most delicious experiences and compile a list of my most recommended for that city. Considered a work in progress, this list will be updated and continue to grow and change as I find more memorable, tasty, share-worthy places.

Having spent the last 11 years in San Diego, I grew up quite a bit here, and I watched the city grow up too. Having eaten my way through the city from the Mexican border (and beyond) to Oceanside, I can say that I've been around the block a time or two, digging around for old gems to finally show me what San Diego food was really all about, and seeking out all of the new establishments in hopes of proving that we could play with the big boys. There have been a few great go to places for me for one reason or another, and the list hasn't changed much even with the massive boom of new businesses.The restaurant and beverage scene has evolved ten fold: Comfortable and approachable, yes, but unique and avant garde it is not...and maybe that's not what it's meant to be. One thing I will say though is you can't beat the burritos down there, you just can't. And from where? It doesn't matter. Go to any random drive through and you'll be satisfied. That's what I miss most believe it or not. And in the meanwhile, below are my recommendations for places to check out while indulging San Diego. 

EAT N DRINK

Robata ya Oton, 5447 Kearny Villa Rd Set D

website: n/a

Recommended for: Intimate dinner with friends 

Price: Average - High

Tips: Go for variety- sample a bunch of small dishes both hot and cold, order 2 orders of sukiyaki or shabu shabu to share between 4 people.

Feel like you've been transported to Tokyo, if only for a few hours. This small robata/izalaya style restaurant seats only 8 at the bar, and around 4-5 parties in their private tatami rooms. Completely Japanese owned and staffed, this Kearny Villa location is the formal version of their sister restaurant Wa Dining Okan on Convoy, also specializing in small plates. Although offering some sushi and sashimi specials, this isn't the place for a sushi fix. Go for their traditional hot dishes and the atmosphere, and you will happily walk away with an experience to remember. They have an extensive sake list from all price points, and offer a handful of japanese beers that pair nicely, And for those of you weary of sitting on your knees, the tatami table drops down underneath with plenty of leg room to spare.

Whisknladle, 1044 Wall St  La Jolla, CA 92037

whisknladle.com

Recommended for: Brunch, Business lunch, Happy Hour, Date night, Intimate dinner with friends, Private Group Dining

Price: Medium - High

Tips: Start with the daily flatbread or the cutting board. And if you decide to order your own entree, you can but know that you will truly be missing out on what this restaurant has to offer. Share and share alike.

My favorite restaurant in San Diego hands down. Its consistent, and as adventurous as San Diego dining may come at times. The ambiance is easy but upscale, service is cool and comfortable but as attentive and knowledgable as fine dining. Happy hour offers housemade sangrias, interesting wines by the glass and heavy discounts by the bottle, and best of all  a variety of tasty traditional and modern style tapas on the cheap, which change daily by chef's whim. The menu features farm to table and changes often based on season and market avaiability. Nearly everything is made from scratch in house. And dont forget the dessert, because there is no denying that their pastry chef knows her stuff.

Prepkitchen, Multiple San Diego locations: La Jolla, Del Mar, Little Italy (see below for a bit on each)

prepkitchen.com

Recommended for: Brunch: in particular the Del Mar location on a sunny day, Happy Hour: Little Italy is the best for this, Date night, "Adult" Family Dinner, Group Events, Private Parties, Family Dining

La Jolla location: Mid-afternoon snack, Dinner with Family (Kids included), Exceptional To Go Family Dinner

Price: Med - High

Tips: The Little Italy restaurant is the only location with a full bar, but all locations are stocked with a great versatile and worldly wine list, and of course a mix of fine local and national craft beers (both on tap and bottle)
A part of the Whisknladle Hospitality family, you can expect much of the same great quality of ingredients, and fantastic execution of what is local, Regional, Italian, Spanish inspired food, but this time in a more casual and "earth toned" environment. It's casual and it feels like the neighborhood (no matter which location you are at.) There is nothing that doesn't fill the soul here. A totally versatile restaurant for any time of day and any occasion, their menus consist of staple tried and true dishes that their fans love (ahem; Bolognese), mixed with the occasional seasonal- make that as occasional as daily or weekly, menu items to make each visit interesting and worth a come-back-to. The Whisknladle Flatbread makes it's appearance here every day with something new on top, and the cutting board is just as solid here too. The cocktail program is legit (at the Little Italy location only) so try something that the bartender recommends, or even throw out your favorite liquor and have them whip up something custom. Next in the works is their Italian project Catagna which I suspect to be nothing short of amazing.

Carnitas Snack Shack, Multiple San Diego Locations (North Park, new Carmel Valley)
carnitassnackshack.com

Recommended for: Lunch (they are only open for lunch)

Price: Low - Medium 

Tips: Get there early-ish near opening to avoid the stampede of an ordering line. Pork Belly App is a MUST order item. Keep an eye open for some of the daily specials.

There is nothing like waking up on a Saturday morning after the bloodbath that was your Friday night and throwing on a ratty tshirt, jeans, flip flops and a pair of dark, dark shades and heading over for some hair of the dog. Maybe I mean hair of the pig. Either way, Carnitas is the place to go to drown all of your woes in meaty, greasy, stick to your gut food. This is literally a shack; stand in line, order your food, find yourself a seat in the back (see my review for the full scope.) Whether you are looking for a quick casual afternoon bite (note it won't be THAT quick given the long line plus the time it takes to prepare a quality burger/sandwich/burrito etc) or perhaps a long boozy lunch basking in the sun, the food here with a couple beers poured from the "pig pen" will get you feeling back to your old self...or feeling like you really are "old" but at least you will be able to take a really good nap after. Either way, it's great. So go. Oh and don't get me wrong, this place is great for families too. Really!

Green Flash Brewing, 6550 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego CA 92121

Recommended for: Afterwork Drinks and a Bite

Price: Low
Tips: If you are a avid eater; must have food with drink-er like I am, be sure to check their website before you go to see which food truck/vendor is selling the goods that day. That will help decide whether this is your only after work stop, or your pre-dinner destination.

San Diego is overpopulated with craft beer breweries. Period. Every one has a neighbor, friend's brother, some person you knew in college, etc etc that has decided to jump on the wagon and try their hand at the brew-craft. But that's not a bad thing (and it's a critical line line that I miss now that I don't live there) because one thing is for sure, you won't ever go thirsty in this town. After trying what seems to be hundreds if not thousands of different beers in my visits to every tiny industrial shack-to-large warehouse-to-storefront location from La Mesa to Vista, I still stick to my guns with the always consistent and never failing Green Flash. The have the hop-bombs that made San Diego famous, and the mellow smooth varietals like the Summer Saison. My favorite is the Rayon Vert- a bit of barnyard and funk that is associated with the wild yeast strain known as "brett"that is tasty and delicious. Go here on a nice sunny day and enjoy the rays (and a seat) on their back patio, which features a local food truck serving up anything from bbq to vegan to mexican which changes daily.

JRDN, Tower 23, Pacific Beach

Recommended for: Brunch

Price: Reasonable

This place to me is the epitome of what sunny days in San Diego should be. Sitting right along the boardwalk in Pacific Beach, you take in the surf, the sun, the people watching. And the food is always pretty good too, consistentency being what I think I love most about it. Brunch items are great, the sandwiches and burger are great, the mussels are great, and so are the pomme frites. It's the best place to spend a boozy afternoon with friends, and although their beer list is a bit of downer, order something else as their wine and cocktail list is plentiful and the patio will make up for it. And note, although it's PB, the good news is that the clientele isn't all what you'd expect. It's some of it, but typically not much of it. And the ones that are just make you feel good about yourself while you enjoy your late-bloomed maturity and some oysters on the half out in the sunshine. That, and you'll be out of PB before sundown.

Eat N Wander: Minneapolis

For every city traveled, I think back on my most delicious experiences and compile a list of my most recommended for that city. Considered a work in progress, this list will be updated and continue to grow and change as I find more memorable, tasty, share-worthy places.

Below are my current recommendations for places to check out while indulging Minneapolis. 

EAT N DRINK

112 Eatery, 112 N 3rd Street

112eatery.com

Recommended for: Date night dinner, intimate dinner with friends 

Price: Average

Tips: Majority of the appetizers and a handful of entrees serve as great shared plates. Highly recommended to approach dinner as shared small plates style vs individual entrees.

This casual restaurant can be dressed up or down. And the menu reflects the same sentiment. An 

American eatery that does almost every dish I have had really well, you will taste midwest comfort food mixed with eclectic inspired dishes and ingredients. The appetizer list is bountiful and so is the entree menu. Food enthusiasts and food conservatives alike will be able to find the perfect dish for their palate on this menu. The restaurant setting is dim and intimate and you just feel nurtured. It's absolutely outstanding and always consistent. 

The Bachelor Farmer

bachelorfarmer.com

Recommended for:  Date night dinner, intimate dinner with friends, Brunch

Price: Average

Tips: If you're there for brunch do not miss out on ordering some of their decadent and interesting fresh baked muffins and  pastries for the table. Wash it down with a glass of champagne from the champagne cart that comes by.

A sustainable garden on a rooftop in Minnesota? It's true, and The Bachelor Farmer made it happen. This restaurant is charming and despite a nondescript, Nordic style modest personality, it easily stands out as one of Minneapolis' sweetheart restaurants. The restaurant is almost unmarked making it hard to find, and completely out of the hustle and bustle of downtown. But once inside, its unfinished beams, brick walls, and minimalist decor bring it to life in the warmest, most inviting way. Then, just like its personality, in its modesty it shows basic, dishes on the menu that embrace the main ingredient. But with a taste you'll be impressed and realize how good basic really is. Also for champagne enthusiasts, they offer champagnes by the glass that are typically only sold by the bottle, available at Sunday brunch only.

Eat N Wander: Portland

For every city traveled, I think back on my most delicious experiences and compile a list of my most recommended for that city. Considered a work in progress, this list will be updated and continue to grow and change as I find more memorable, tasty, share-worthy places to recommend.

Below are my current recommendations for places to check out while indulging Portland. 

EAT N DRINK LIST

Clyde Common, 1014 SW Stark Street, Pearl District

clydecommon.com

Recommended for: Dinner, cocktails

Price: Average

Tips: Order the board of the day to start, it comes with a side of Manhattan

I can't rave enough about this place. It's really inviting, warm, and the perfect place to hang out with friends or a loved one on a rainy night or even a beautiful Summer night. Its along side and connected to the iconic ACE hotel. There are tons of small shareable dishes to choose from, and the communal seating is perfect for it. The drinks are made with love and respect for the ingredients, bourbons are infused in house, and they even make their own ginger beer in house. Have cocktails here for sure, and if you need to stray there are just a handful of select beers to choose from. Plates are beautiful and well presented and you can see the cooks hard at work through the almost open kitchen set up. American food  done with really fresh ingredients, not that you expect anything less in Portland. 

Ned Ludd, 3925 NE MLK blvd, Northeast

nedluddpdx.com

Recommended for: Dinner, brunch,cocktails

Price: Average

Tips: Sit outside on the wooden communal benches when the weather is nice. Sip drinks out of mason jars and feel like you never want to leave 

This is a wood fired restaurant, meaning almost everything on the menu comes from the wood burning oven which is amazingly respectable. And what doesn't, is just overwhelmingly light and as fresh and in season as you can get. Handmade charcuterie, fresh garden picked vegetables. The food is just really genuine and respectful of the ingredient itself. Simple and clean, no fuss. 

Nongs Khao Man Gai, 1003 SW Alder Street, Downtown

khaomangai.com

Recommended for: Quick lunch, snack, hangover cure

Price: Cheap, under $10

Tips: There's nowhere to sit, so be prepared to take it with you somewhere else to eat. Or, if you look lost enough they'll let you stand and perch on the 6" sliver or of counter space at the window. Get a side of fried chicken skin, it's life changing.

Nong the owner who runs this food pod is not messing around. She's a tiny thai lady with a big, unmistakable, enthusiastic voice and will welcome you in her window like you've been there a million times before. In the heart of downtown's cluster of food pods, it clearly makes its presence known by the line up of people that spans down the block during lunch time. You wonder what all the fuss is about and simply put- it's just chicken and rice. The white rice is steamed, the chicken is poached, but then what makes it is the sauce. Soy, sugar, garlic, ginger, goodness... it's addictive. So addictive they even sell it by the bottle now. Comes as simple as it gets, wrapped up in white butcher paper instead of a to go box (environmentally conscious, AND food cost genius) Served with a side of clear broth- that, of course, does come in to go packaging.


Pok-Pok, 3226 SE Division Street, Portland Oregon
pokpokpdx.com

Recommended for: Afternoon Bite, Early Dinner, Dinner

Price: Cheap to Medium
Tips: Seating is limited both upstairs and downstairs, so get there early. Try the salted plum collins cocktail, just because you may never have tried anything like it.
Fine, I'm going to say it. I wasn't that impressed. There! Now why am I adding this to the list if I am not that impressed? Because I am charmed by the fact that it instantly transports you to a little shack somewhere in the PAC. and I found that part of it endearing especially when you consider where you really are. The dishes like the Papaya Salad, Beef Salad, Roast Fish  and Curry were in fact good; lots of vinegar, fish sauce, spice, and sweetness. And yes, the roast chicken, and Ike's chicken wings were good too, but based on the hype of expectations, I found myself wondering "Should I be blown away? Is this supposed to be the best Thai I have ever tasted?" The answer I think was no. But I couldn't help but think that maybe I would have felt differently if I hadn't heard and expected so much. Regardless, I still list this as a great place to visit given the experience. Try early afternoon before the rush, and it won't disappoint.

Eat N Wander: Austin

For every city traveled, I think back on my most delicious experiences and compile a list of my most recommended for that city. Considered a work in progress, this list will be updated and continue to grow and change as I find more memorable, tasty, share-worthy places to recommend.

Below are my current recommendations for places to check out while indulging Austin.

EAT N DRINK LIST
La Barbeque, 1502 South 1st Street, South Austin

labarbeque.com

Recommended for: Barbecue, lunch

Price: Cheap, but you should spend at least $15 to get your fix in

Tips: Get there early, they close shop pretty early in the afternoon when they sell out.

A BBQ trailer with loads of options and southern hospitality. Bring yourself, bring the friends, bring the family.You can get down and dirty. Get there early before things start selling out and definitely try the sausage.

Uchi, 801 South Lamar Blvd, South Austin

uchiaustin.com

Recommended for: Dinner, date night, girls night 

Price: A pretty penny. About $100+ pp for dinner

Tips: Must tries are the Foie Nigiri and the Hamachi Nabe

Fresh fish and contemporary hot and cold Japanese dishes with clean flavors. Presented beautifully and executed well. Quaint, casual, but sophisticated air. A great place for a cute date night, or a girls/guys night. Getting resos can be tricky and waits are long. Make your reso way in advance (Meaning, at least a month in advance to get a decent time slot.)

Peche, 208 W. 4th Street, Downtown Warehouse District
pecheaustin.comRecommended for: Casual bistro style dinner, a glass of wine or a few cocktails

Price: Average price for food, pricey drinks

Tips: NA

Peche is more of a restaurant than a bar, but with a long bar that stretches down the length of the restaurant, you're likely to find yourself a seat, or three. 2 walls are fully lined with every liquor and spirit imaginable. Choose from creative cocktail concoctions, classic cocktails, and interesting wines. To find this euro bistro style, calm haven in the middle of the downtown chaos makes it worthwhile. I didn't eat, but I did find myself salivating over the mussels that were cleverly adorned with pieces of bone marrow that the gentleman next to me were slurping down. They have friendly bartenders, good music, and a great vibe. A great breath of fresh air. And next time I'm getting those mussels.


Lustre Pearl, 97 Rainey Street, Rainey  (Note has been closed as of 2014)lustrepearl.com

Recommended for: After dinner drinks or beer, people watching, entertainment with friends

Price: Average

Tips: Don't try to order anything fancy (here or any bar on Rainey) or you will end up with a disaster. Stick to beers, and your standard mixed drinks. 

One of the many old rustic bungalow turned bars on Rainey street, and this one is pretty charming with their rocking chairs out on the front porch and just enough back yard seating to make it a party. Honestly, you will feel like you are in a college bar when you cram your way through the crowd to order a drink, but what you'll find is actually a good mix of young and mostly older, mid 30's crowd, which is pretty typical of Rainey street. This is a laid back local bar good for conversation under the string lights and stars, and if you can't make or find good conversation, you can at least stare at (or talk about) one of the many people trying to hula hoop with beer in hand. The best (smartest) thing about Lustre Pearl is that there is a taco food truck parked out back for the late night munchies.

Eat N Wander: Los Angeles

For every city traveled, I think back on my most delicious experiences and compile a list of my most recommended for that city. Considered a work in progress, this list will be updated and continue to grow and change as I find more memorable, tasty, share-worthy places to recommend.

Below are my current recommendations for places to check out while indulging LA.  Enjoy!

EAT N DRINK LIST

The Bazaar, by Jose Andres, 465 La Cienega Blvd, Beverly Hills

thebazaar.com

Recommended for: Dinner, Big night out

Price: A pretty penny. Recommended $90+ pp for a good eclectic mix

Cocktails are pricey but worth trying. Wines start around $75 and up for the bottle. 

Tips: Try the egg omelette, the olives aren't as exciting as they're made out to be- order the caprese instead for a similar experience 

Located at the SLS hotel in Beverly Hills, this is not a restaurant, it's a dining experience. Trendy, dark prentencious, interesting. With plenty of dishes that feature a modern take on traditional Spanish Tapas, it offers a futuristic experience in molecular gastronomy and mixology. Sit in the Blanca room for a classier, quieter evening, or sit in the Rojo room with the open kitchen for more excitement and noise. You'll see all kinds of people from old man ballers with their young girlfriends in stilletos and spandex, that LA kid and his friends, all with moms credit card, neon sunglasses, and boat shoes, to totally normal couples, small groups of all ages, out of towners, and the curious food junkies.

Bottega Louie, 700 S Grand Ave, Downtown 

bottegalouie.com

Recommended for: Brunch, Snack, Drinks

Price: Average, can get high if you let it

Tips: Sit at the bar and chat with the knowledgable bartenders, grab a few beautiful pastries to go on your way out

A beautiful restaurant that is light, bright, and airy. It's casual and chic, and always busy. Great for a decadent morning or afternoon meal, or for a mid day cocktail, champagne, or espresso. Menu is Italian, American, Euro. Food is quality, drinks are well made, decent selection of craft and import beers. Crowd is business, young and old, families included (but not a ton)

Baco Mercat, 408 S Main Street, Downtown 

bacomercat.com

Recommended for: Casual, Low Key Dinner

Price: Average

Tips: Can be hit or miss. But the miss is still good

Smaller restaurant with lots of life, offering thick bready flatbreads and "sandwiches" that can maybe better be described as similar to a gyro. Flavors are more Latin, Spanish inspired than anything else, but include the usual Cali style mix of flavors and ingredients. Interesting beers, wines, and cocktails. Good for a small group of 4 or less, not so much for being family oriented.

Wurstkuche, 800 E 3rd Street, Downtown

wurstkuche.com

Recommended for: Hanging out, casual beer and a bite

Price: Cheap

Tips: Most of the sausages taste practically the same once you throw all the toppings on. If you care to taste, more is less. Don't bother with the fries.

Hang out for hours to lively beats and drink a ton of beer. Known notoriously for exotic sausages of all kinds pork, rabbit, kangaroo, crocodile etc etc etc)  this Industrial space is in the hip little arts district. Filled with communal seating for the happy, beer loving, sausage eating patrons, it's hip and then hipster. Stand in a massive line to order your beer and brat of choice, quickly send the first friend who ordered on the mission to scour and secure a seat in the back. You'll eat the sausage and perhaps like me, you won't be too impressed, but it doesn't break the bank to try one, and it'll hold you over before dinner or your late night snack. And not to mention you'll feel like you're cool bc you checked it out.

Change up: Eat N Wander Destinations

I eat out and drink out often, far too often to always write about it or find the time to do it. 

And just now it hit me:  if the ultimate goal is to help my fellow restless eaters out there figure out where to go when out and about, I better stop my reviewing and just make solid, useful suggestions. Do you want to know where to go for a nightcap in LA? Where to find seafood in Mexico? Or where to find great Chinese food in San Diego? Well ok I can't help you there, but I can at least make fair suggestions. You get the point!

So, from today on I'm just going to update posts by city. If and when I come across somewhere fun and noteworthy, I'll add it to the list. Happy eats and happy travels!