Chow Time

Baan-Thai Restaurant

2010-04-10T22:22:00.000-07:00

Portland $ *****
This is definitely PSU's version of Reed's Tom-Yum. In other words, Baan-Thai is cheap, tasty, generous with its portions, and close to campus. I had my typical pad thai and thai iced coffee - both were amazing. It's located on the second floor of a charming blue house with yellow walls and lots of artwork. Also, they play 80s love songs.

Baan-Thai Restaurant
1924 SW Broadway
Portland, OR 97201

Swirl

2010-04-10T22:15:00.000-07:00

Portland $ ****
Swirl is a fun, new frozen yogurt place on Hawthorne. Cheap, self-serve, with a variety of flavors, and open late with free wi-fi, I don't have any complaints with this place. My friend and I even did some homework here (what could be better than reading about capitalism while eating frozen yogurt??).
Swirl Frozen Yogurt (Hawthorne)
3538 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Portland, OR 97214
Sun – Thu 11a - 10p
Fri - Sat 11a - Midnight

Ya Hala Lebanese Cuisine

2010-04-10T22:07:00.000-07:00

Portland $ *****
Another great Lebanese restaurant in Portland, and super cheap! I think I spent about $8 for two hot beef sausage mezzas and turkish coffee.

Ya Hala Lebanese Cuisine (Southeast)
8005 SE Stark St
Portland, OR 97215
Mon-Sat 11a-9p

Hau Terrace at the Outrigger Canoe Club

2010-01-16T14:36:00.000-08:00

Honolulu $$ *****
Unfortunately, you can't really eat here unless one of your party is a member of the Outrigger Canoe Club, but hey - the food was great, so I'm going to write about our dining experience anyway. I have so many memories of this place... sipping mint chip milkshakes while walking along Waikiki Beach with my friend.
On this day, we actually sat at the terrace and ordered a full lunch. It was a particularly chilly day (well, chilly to Hawaii standards - about 70 degrees), so we had to order coffees to keep our hands warm. And we weren't complaining at all - their coffee is amazing!! I ordered the clam pasta, which was delicious as well. The clams were out of their shells already, which I guess is good for lazy people, bad for those who want all the fresh flavors. I couldn't decide which one I was. Regardless, I was quite satisfied with it, and the service was laid-back but friendly. Can't wait to return!
Hau Terrace at the Outrigger Canoe Club (Waikiki)
2909 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
Lunch: Mon-Sat 11:30am-2pm
Dinner: Daily 5:30pm-9pm
Breakfast: 8:30am-2pm

Leonard's Bakery

2010-01-16T14:25:00.000-08:00

Honolulu $ *****
In case you are not from Hawaii, malasadas are a Portuguese treat made of deep-fried balls of dough covered in sugar, and Leonard's Bakery is the iconic Hawaii chain that makes them.
My friend and I went to the big one in Kapahulu. Busy as usual, a no-fuss type of place. We stood in line, passing by other snacks they serve (but we were there for malasadas only). I ordered a regular and a chocolate-filled one. You can also order them with cinnamon instead of plain sugar. For about 79-cents each, you can't get a better deal!
We were lucky enough to find a bench available outside and watched the world go by while eating our malasadas. Delicious!
The outside is slightly crispy and very sugary, while the inside is warm and soft. This place is a must if ever in Hawaii.
Leonard's Bakery (Kapahulu)
933 Kapahulu Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96816
Mon-Thu 5:30am-9pm
Fri-Sat 5:30am-10pm

A's Bistro

2010-01-16T14:19:00.000-08:00

Ewa Beach *****
A's is definitely my favorite Filipino restaurant - in the world. Whenever my family and I are on the west side of Oahu, we always find some excuse to have dinner here. A's is a casual restaurant with about five televisions playing Filipino soap operas (how adorable, right?). I'm not going to embarrass myself by attempting to spell the dishes, but the noodles, soups, and barbeque pork dishes we always order are wonderful.

A's Bistro (Ewa Beach)
91-1001 Kaimalie St
Ewa Beach, HI 96706

Beachhouse at the Moana

2010-01-16T14:07:00.000-08:00

Honolulu $$$$ *****
This was my first time having brunch at the Beachhouse and, as usual, I had to compare it to my all-time favorite, Plumeria Beach House at the Kahala Hotel. The service was efficient, but not as warm as it could have been. Unlike at Plumeria, which is literally a few steps from Kahala Beach, the Beachhouse offers merely a stunning but distant view of the blue Pacific Ocean (you only see the ocean, not the beach as well). However, I am being much too picky, just because I can.
I ordered a latte and french toast. The french toast was perfect - perhaps the best I've ever had. Great texture, just enough crisp but softer in the middle, full of cinnamon flavor, and the syrup was delicious. My latte was another story. I don't have particularly high standards for coffee, so when I say that my coffee was not good, that really says something. Perhaps I should have just gotten a plain coffee instead of a latte because I had to add so much cream and sugar to it anyway.
Regardless, the Beachhouse is still a wonderful restaurant, perhaps on the same level as Orchids at Halekulani (both of which are one step below Plumeria, of course). I look forward to returning.
Beachhouse at the Moana (Waikiki)
2365 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815-2943

Panya Bakery

2010-01-16T13:59:00.000-08:00

Honolulu $ *****
Apparently Panya is a huge chain, with bakeries in Hong Kong, Honolulu, and now even in New York. Good for them. This particular one is new, located on the first floor of the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. After roaming around Waikiki, my friend and I stopped for a much-needed dessert. My tiramisu was amazing. It doesn't follow the traditional tiramisu; instead, it was Panya's spin on it. The texture was fluffy, and the ratio of coffee, cocoa, and cake (instead of lady fingers) was perfect. Unfortunately, my friend ordered the chocolate coffee brownie, which was much too heavy to be enjoyable. Lesson to be learned: order the tiramisu, not the brownie.
Panya Bakery (Waikiki)
Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center
Honolulu, HI

Soul de Cuba

2010-01-16T13:50:00.001-08:00

Honolulu $$ ****
Before gallery-hopping on First Friday, my friend and I decided to try Soul de Cuba, a fun Cuban restaurant right next to another favorite of mine, Brasserie du Vin. It was as lively as a Cuban restaurant should be. I ordered the lechon asado (marinated roast pork sauteed with onions), arroz moro, and platanos. The lechon asado was so juicy! Unfortunately, I don't like bananas, so I couldn't appreciate the platanos, but they did look good and probably would have perfectly complemented the meat. Prices were pretty reasonable for dinner.
Soul de Cuba (Downtown)
121 Bethel Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
Mon-Thu 11:30am-10pm
Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm

Himalayan Kitchen

2010-01-16T13:38:00.000-08:00

Honolulu $$ *****
This is an adorable Nepalese and Indian restaurant, almost completely hidden from the rest of Kaimuki's restaurant row. After going up some stairs, past an open courtyard with some tables and chairs, I entered a festive room filled with Himalayan art. For lunch, I ordered the lamb kachoura (curry), which came with rice, some vegetables, and my choice of the following: eggplant, matar paneer, aloo gobi, mix vegitable curry, or house special lentil of the day. I ordered the matar paneer, which is a savoury curry with a surprising mix of peas and cheese. The naan was as good as always, and service was friendly. This has become my new favorite Indian restaurant in Hawaii.

Himalayan Kitchen (Kaimuki)
1137 11th Ave
Honolulu, HI 96816

Joyful Garden Fine Asian Cuisine

2009-12-29T13:19:00.000-08:00

Kaneohe $$ ***
Joyful Garden is probably better than I think it is. I may just be too much of a Honolulu snob to give a restaurant on the Windward side its deserved praise. Regardless, I cannot bring myself to like this place as much as my parents do. Put simply, it is a casual Chinese restaurant with inconsistent but friendly service and pretty good food.

Joyful Garden Fine Asian Cuisine (Kaneohe)
45-480 Kaneohe Bay Drive
Kaneohe, HI 96744

Kirin Restaurant

2009-12-29T13:05:00.000-08:00

Honolulu $$ *****
Kirin is on the same level as Mandalay, which is possibly the best compliment I can give to a Chinese restaurant. They are great for different reasons. I prefer the dishes and location of Mandalay, but the atmosphere and décor of Kirin is much nicer. Kirin gives free valet parking, which I consider a huge plus since I absolutely hate parking. You walk through a cheesy Chinese archway and enter a beautifully decorated interior, with deep wood tones separating smaller private rooms from the larger dining area, ornate chairs, and splashes of pale green.
For the most part, their dim sum is nonpareil. However, there are one or two dishes that are better at other dim sum restaurants, such as Hee Hing or Mandalay. For example, their seaweed roll is a bit too heavy. Other than that, I've been completely satisfied with Kirin.
Kirin Restaurant (Mo'ili'ili)
2518 South Beretania Street
Honolulu, HI 96826

Tai Sei Ramen

2009-12-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

Honolulu $ ***
Tai Sei Ramen is conveniently located on the edge of downtown. The food is decent, but they give a lot of freebies: a free drink if you spend over $5; a $3 kids menu... The service is friendly but a bit slow.
My ramen came with an abundance of vegetables, but the noodles were somewhat bland. However, I did appreciate the large portions. Our gyoza was delicious, but I have never had bad gyoza.
Tai Sei Ramen (downtown)
800 South Beretania Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
Mon-Thu 10:30am-10:30pm
Fri-Sat 10:30am-11:30pm

Zippy's Restaurant

2009-12-29T12:20:00.000-08:00

Honolulu $ ****
I know, I know. It's a bit pointless to write about Zippy's; every Hawaii resident has eaten here and has formed their own opinions of this statewide chain. However, recently Zippy's has held a special place in my heart, and so I think it deserves to be on my blog.
Zippy's serves "local" food, whatever that is. From saimin to chili to teriyaki chicken, the menu reflects the diversity of our state. The quality of the food itself is nothing special. What I really appreciate about Zippy's is not its food but its convenience. In almost every neighborhood, you will find a Zippy's. At 2 am, when you are still out and about, you can always depend on Zippy's to satisfy your late night cravings. Unlike other late-night places in other cities, e.g., Montage, Hot Cake House, Zippy's is always dependable (not to mention not sketchy!). Clean, friendly, and cheap - what else could you want?

Zippy's Restaurants
Various locations
Open 24 hours

Habibi Lebanese Cuisine

2009-12-08T17:22:00.000-08:00

Portland $ *****
I love this place! Habibi is a casual, friendly Lebanese restaurant in downtown, right next to the Persian House (which is also right next to India House). My friends and I went on a Friday night. It was pretty full when we came, so I'm glad I had made reservations earlier. We were led up the stairs, which were lined with hookahs, to the upper level.

I had the beef shawarma and black tea with fresh mint. Both were wonderful. The beef shawarma came on a beautiful gold leaf-shaped plate and consisted of perfectly-sized slices of tender beef marinated with onions, garlic, vinegar & Lebanese spices. It was on a large serving of their special flavored rice. I was a little sad that it did not come with some pita bread, especially after trying a piece of my friend's pita bread, but I survived.
After our meal, my friend ordered a Turkish coffee, and oh lord -- words cannot describe that coffee. I would come back for the coffee alone! As it should be, her coffee was served in a pot called a cezve. Dark and sweet. This is easily the best coffee I've ever had. Now that is how coffee is supposed to taste like!
The service was quick and friendly. One of the guys (the owner, I think?) was quite flirtacious, which is always a nice touch on a Friday night with the girls. I need to go back very soon because I am craving that coffee!

Habibi Lebanese Cuisine (Downtown)
1012 SW Morrison Blvd
Portland, OR 97205

Persian House Restaurant

2009-11-28T22:46:00.000-08:00

Portland $$ ****
Why is this place always so empty?? My friend and I have been here twice, both on Friday nights, and it's either completely empty or occupied with one or two other tables.
Persian House is a cozy, dimly-lit Persian restaurant in downtown. The service is warm, and the food is delicious, although a bit on the small side. We started with bread (is it called naan in Persia?) and Persian tea, which is very floral. I ordered the lemon chicken. it came with a large serving of rice with saffron and some vegetables. So much flavor! The chicken had just the right amount of lemon and spices.
For dessert I ordered baklava. It was the best baklava I've ever had! Light, crispy layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and honey - now that is how baklava is supposed to taste. My friend ordered the Persian ice cream, which had cherry rice and pistachio ice cream in it. Also amazing.
This is definitely one of my favorite restaurants in Portland. We'll have to try the lunch buffet sometime.
Persian House Restaurant (Downtown)
1026 SW Morrison St
Portland, OR 97205
Mon-Fri 11:30am-3:30pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm
Sat 12pm-3:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm

Little T American Baker

2009-11-28T22:33:00.000-08:00

Portland $$ ***
After driving past this bakery multiple times and hearing me complain that we should go there each time, my friend finally parked the car and told me that today is going to be the day we're going to try it.
The interior is the reason I've been wanting to try it. Whoever decorated did a nice job. It looks part Swedish, part Californian - if that makes any sense. Light woods, huge windows, concrete floors. I had a croissant, and my friend ordered some apple pastry. Neither of us were impressed. Everything looks better than it tastes. Oh well. My friend doesn't have to hear me complain anymore.
Little T American Baker (Clinton)
2600 SE Division St
Portland, OR 97202
Daily 7-5, Sun 8-2

Karahi Indian Cuisine

2009-11-05T22:22:00.000-08:00

New York $$ *****
Amazing Indian restaurant in the West Village, and a nice place to conclude our trip to New York. My friends and I tried some interesting dishes, including murg tikka masala, which is Tandoori diced chicken in mild gravy and Indian spices. The food was flavorful and quite filling, while the restaurant was nicely decorated with adorable utensils and water cups. I'd love to come back next time.
Karahi Indian Cuisine (West Village)
118 Christopher Street
New York, NY 10014
Lunch: Mon-Sat Noon-3pm
Dinner: Mon-Sun 5pm-10:30

Hot & Crusty

2009-11-05T22:08:00.000-08:00

New York $ ***
After suffering through "Where the Wild Things Are," my friend and I definitely needed some chocolate. We both walked straight into Hot & Crusty, which seems to be a New York chain. There were two huge cases of pastries. We were in heaven. We both ordered some crunchy chocolate pastries that I forgot the names of. Pretty good, but nothing amazing. However, we did slightly recover from the movie. I'd have liked to try their bagels, which must be good since people kept coming in for them, even late at night.
Hot & Crusty (Upper East Side)
1276 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10028

Wok 88

2009-11-05T22:03:00.000-08:00

New York $ ****
Another Chinese restaurant during our stay in New York! This one is called Wok 88 and is located on the Upper East Side. They offer a variety of noodle dishes at reasonable prices. Clean place, decent service. And fortune cookies at the end. Perfect!
Wok 88 (Upper East Side)
1570 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10128

Ko Sushi Japanese Restaurant

2009-11-05T21:53:00.000-08:00

New York $$ *****
This is definitely one of our favorite restaurants we tried during our visit to New York - and I will gladly take credit for it, since I had spent about an hour doing research in search of a decent sushi place for our fifth night. Located way east on York Avenue, it is pretty out of the way for most. However, the journey is well worth it. $13 for a plate of some of the best sushi I've ever had?! How can anyone say no? We came late at night, so by the end of the meal, the waitress was practically kicking us out. Besides the semi-rude service, everything else was perfect. Clean atmosphere (although, I do wish Ko played some Japanese music instead of American love songs), and the sushi was some of the best I've ever had (and I've had a lot!) -- both in taste and in price. It will be hard going to another sushi place after this.
Ko Sushi Japanese Restaurant (Upper East Side)
1619 York Avenue
New York, NY 10028-6259
Mon-Fri 11:30am-10:30pm
Sat-Sun Noon-10:30pm

Juliano's Espresso Bar

2009-11-05T21:46:00.000-08:00

New York $ ****
Alright, we admit it - my friend and I went to Starbucks every day while in New York. However, we did manage to go to a non-chain (at least, that's what I hope) coffeeshop. On our way from our hostel on the Upper East Side to midtown, we popped into Juliano's, a small, cozy espresso bar. My hot chocolate was delicious and cheaper than Starbucks. Plus, the old Jewish baristas were adorable.

Juliano's Espresso Bar (Upper East Side)
1378 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10128

Dan Japanese Restaurant

2009-11-05T21:32:00.000-08:00

New York $$ ****
On our second day in New York, we wanted Asian food again. This time, we were on the Upper West Side, so we walked down Broadway. After passing some pricey sushi places, swanky Italian restaurants, and unappealing Greek diners, we found Dan. Another success!

Dan Japanese Restaurant is tastefully decorated, and the food was pretty good but not spectacular. I ordered the beef sukiyaki. It probably was not the most authentic -- it sort of reminded me of Koji Osakaya in Portland, but a tad better -- but we were satisfied. The best part about the restaurant was the conversations we heard by sitting right next to (hey, this is New York) a very interesting couple of guys. Uhh... I think that's all I should say for this.

Dan Japanese Restaurant (Upper West Side)
2018 Broadway
New York, NY 10023
Mon-Sat Noon-2pm, 5pm-11pm
Sun 4pm-11pm

Pick Up Stix

2009-11-05T20:38:00.000-08:00

New York $ *****
The first thing my friend and I wanted to do when we arrived in New York was eat - and of course we wanted to eat Asian food. We were staying in the Upper East Side, so we had a little difficulty finding an Asian restaurant. In fact, when we went into a bodega to ask for suggestions, he kind of looked at us, smirked at our apparently glaring "tourist" stamped on our foreheads, and told us, "Madison Avenue does not have that." So we kept walking, finding our way to Lexington Ave. There it was! A little hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurant called Pick Up Stix. Looked authentic, i.e., the waiters were Chinese and it looked a bit dirty. Success.

This place definitely satisfied our Chinese food cravings. We shared dumplings and noodles. Delicious! Maybe we were just extremely hungry. Nevertheless, the food was steaming hot and tasty. What a perfect way to start our trip!

Pick Up Stix (Upper East Side)
1372 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10128

Bread and Ink Cafe

2009-11-05T20:25:00.000-08:00

Portland $$ **
My friend and I were not very pleased with this place. We were on Hawthorne and wanted to try something new instead of going to our usual, Pho Van. We've always walked by Bread and Ink, so we decided to try it. Right away, we got the feeling that it was not going to be our type of place. As soon as we walked in, we were seated by some person in grungy black clothes and tattoos. Now, I'm not judging her style (I have nothing against black clothes, trust me), but when I want a cozy dinner, this is not the person I want to have serve me. Plus, our menus were paper. That they reuse for each customer.

Okay, now the more important part: the food. The food was also unimpressive. My friend had an oily burger; I had a beef brisket sandwich. Both were mediocre, and they had gotten my order wrong: I wanted fries but they gave me a salad. So they brought my fries eventually.
Service was alright, atmosphere was alright. In conclusion, I probably won't come back here. Bread and Ink is not awful, but it's definitely not worth it for me. I hear their breakfasts are pretty good, but I doubt I'll come back when there are so many other breakfast places I love.

Bread and Ink Cafe (Hawthorne)
3610 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Portland, OR 97214
Sun-Thu 8am-9pm
Fri-Sat 9am-10pm

H50 Bistro and Bar

2009-10-11T10:31:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$ ****
Another fabulous place for a lazy breakfast. This restaurant is located on the first floor of the hotel at which my parents were staying, Hotel Fifty in downtown Portland, overlooking the Willamette River. Breakfast is a nice time to come because it's pretty empty, maybe a few other tables occupied with other hotel guests. We were seated by the window with a perfect view of the waterfront park.
I ordered two over-easy eggs, bisquits with a sausage gravy, and roasted potatoes. I was a little upset that they didn't have any hot chocolate (our waiter said they had run out of their homemade chocolate syrup), but I survived just fine. Their coffee and orange juice were good. The eggs and potatoes were perfect, and my sausage gravy was delicious. My dad ordered some of the best french toasts I've ever tried.
Good service, pretty food, and straightforward delicious food. The perfect way to start a lazy morning.
H50 Bistro and Bar (Downtown)
50 SW Morrison St
Portland, Oregon 97204
Breakfast: Mon-Fri 6:30-11am
Brunch: Sat-Sun 6:30am-2pm
Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm
Dinner: Sun-Thu 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm

Malay Satay Hut

2009-10-11T10:16:00.001-07:00

Portland $$ *****
This place is so good we went twice in one day. Yes, we're that crazy. My friend took my family and here for lunch to get some authentic Malaysian food. She ordered dishes that she usually eats in SWe got to try some very interesting dishes, such as Bak Kut Teh (a delicious beef soup), Buddish Yam Pot (a pot made of fried yam holding various goodies like shrimp and vegetables), and Kang Kung Belachan (ong choi cooked in peppers and shrimp sauce). For dessert, we shared two dishes: one consisted of shaved ice, coconut milk, sugar, and jellies; the other one consisted of cooked black rice and coconut milk. Both amazing.
Two hours later we returned with another family. This time, we came for dim sum. That's right - this place specializes in both Malaysian food AND dim sum. How cool is that? More unbelievable is that the dim sum was just as good as their Malaysian food. We got what we usually order when we eat dim sum: (I know I'm going to be spelling a lot of these incorrectly; I apologize in advance) shu mai, ha gau, scallop and beef look fun roll, gin doi, taro, and seaweed roll.
The restaurant is nicely decorated with light wood walls and pictures of Southeast Asia. My only complaint is that it's located in SE 82nd and, since I'm a wuss, I don't particularly like going there. Definitely come when you have a car and/or it's still early. However, once you're here, you can go right next door to Fubonn, a massive Asian marketplace. When my parents come back to visit me next year, I know we'll be back because we instantly fell in love with this place. Both times.
Malay Satay Hut (82nd)
2850 SE 82nd Ave
Portland, OR 97266

Andina

2009-10-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$$ *****
Andina is an AMAZING Peruvian restaurant in the Pearl District. Unfortunately, it's another one of those restaurants to which I can only come when my (or someone else's) parents are in town because it's quite pricey. But every penny is worth it.
Colorful, loud (every night there is a band that comes in), and packed throughout, Andina is the place to be on a Friday night. We started off with some drinks. I tried the Inca Kola, which I guess is what the Incas drank before they all died out. It tastes almost like ginger ale, but it's sweeter and a prettier yellow color. The rest of my party enjoyed their drinks, including my friend who ordered an arandano, which is a raspberry drink. The bread was also interesting because it was served with three different sauces: a peanut butter and cheese one; a citrus one; and a jalapeño one. I highly recommend mixing the peanut butter and cheese one with the jalapeño one.
Then we had some appetizers. One of them was called "pulpo a la oliva", which is tender octopus slices cupped in fresh endives with Botija olive sauce. ($8.5) The second one was called "a la chalaca", which is sashimi-style fresh fish in an aji Amarillo vinaigrette, served with corn salsa criolla. ($12)
My main course was called "corderito de los andes", a succulent double rack of grass-fed lamb grilled to order, and served with a Peruvian yellow potato and two cheese timbale with a sublime roasted pepper demi-glace. ($27) Delicious! I don't eat lamb often, so this was definitely a treat. It came with two huge pieces of lamb, nicely arranged in a line with alternating slices of roasted potatoes. The cheese timbale gave the perfect kick to the rich meats. The portion was large so I get to eat my leftovers this week. Everyone else loved their meal as much as I did. Other recommended dishes: dorado al rocoto y kion (roasted mahi mahi over a shiitake mushroom, smoked bacon, and bok choy broth, topped with slivers of ginger, rocoto, and scallion basted with smoking sesame oil, served with asparagus-quinoa fried rice); conchas del senor de sipan (quinoa-crusted diver scallops perched on top of wilted spinach and potato-parsnip purée, with golden beet and crabmeat "cannelloni”, and a duet of red beet and passionfruit reductions); and adobo de cerdo (pork tenderloin quickly braised in the Arequipa style, with butternut squash and gorgonzola ravioli, green apple, and a tamarillo-rocoto “uchucuta”).
For dessert, I had "mousse de valle y selva", a tiered semi-freddo of velvety lucuma and espresso mousses, chocolate ganache, and crushed cocoa nib meringue, served with espresso shortbread. Tasted delicious, almost like a tiramisu dish. Another person in my party ordered the plato de crema quemada, which was three pots of crème brûlée, each different flavors: one rosemary, one orange, and none of us could figure out the last one.

All in all, this place is one my new favorite restaurants. It was my first time trying Peruvian food and, I must say, I am quite impressed. I wish I could back more often, but I'll probably have to wait for my parents to visit again (or someone else's parents to treat me).
Andina (Pearl District)

1314 NW Glisan St
Portland, OR 97209
Lunch: Daily 11:30am-2:30pm
Bar/Tapas: Sun-Thu 4pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 4pm-Midnight
Dinner: Sun-Thu 5pm-9:30pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-10:30pm
Happy Hour: Daily 4pm-6pm

Palio Dessert & Espresso House

2009-09-27T15:03:00.000-07:00

Portland $ ****
This cozy, surprisingly large cafe would have been perfect if it hadn't been for a certain waitress (she was rude and messed up my friend's order!). Now that I got that out of the way, I can continue praising this place.
Palio is located in adorable Ladd's Addition. Even if you don't come to Palio, you should drive around Ladd's Addition in southeast Portland. Ladd's is a square made up of diagonal streets, tiny homes, and lots and lots of roses. This is why Portland is considered Rose City. Palio offers the typical cafe items: soups, sandwiches, coffee, and desserts - all moderately priced. What makes this place so great is coming up next.
There are three distinct sections at Palio: one is the main room where you purchase the food and can sit at some tables; another is a separate room that looks like a perfect study area with lots of large tables; the last section is the one my friend and I chose. In the back of the main room, walk up a few steps to an elevated platform. Here, there are about 3 tables, bookshelves full of random books, and games. Yes, board games!
So, instead of reading about families in the South, my friend and I played two rounds of checkers and one round of my favorite: Scrabble! It was wonderful. We had a variety of dictionaries to choose from to help us in our intense game. Ther were various magazines and poetry books that were fun as well. My ham and cheese sandwich with bar-b-que chips were delicious (although, our awful waitress took forever), while my friend enjoyed her meal even though it was the wrong dish.
For dessert, we both ordered the tiramisu, but their version of tiramisu is definitely not a proper tiramisu. It was more of a chocolate cake. However, it was a good chocolate cake, and so we were quite pleased regardless.
Palio is open late for Portland standards, and the atmosphere was great: cozy, laid-back, and I could definitely imagine coming back to study sometime. The waitress sucked, and two of our dishes were incorrect, but everything else was perfect.
Palio Dessert & Coffee House (Ladd's Addition)
1996 SE Ladd Ave
Portland, OR 97214
Mon-Fri 7am-11pm
Sat-Sun 8am-11pm

Pastini Pastaria

2009-09-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

Portland $ ****
After a successful shopping day in downtown, my friend and I somehow thought we still deserved some dessert. Unfortunately, 7:30 pm is late in Portland, so we had trouble finding a suitable place. Finally, after roaming Broadway and a few more streets, we saw the neon sign of Pastini Pastaria. I had read about it before and had been on its website multiple times. It was a straightforward Italian place, not quite interesting enough to put it on my List. However, we were desperate, and so we walked in and asked to see their dessert menu.

Tiramisu AND chocolate tartufo - both for less than $6?! Okay, we're sold. The atmosphere was what I was expecting. Looks like a chain (because it is - there are 8 in total), and the crowd consisted of the typical annoyingly mainstream crowd with which I try not to mingle. But hey, we're here. Let's try their dessert.
I'm glad we did! I ordered the chocolate tartufo. Yummm. I'm sure all they had to do was microwave the cake and plop scoops of vanilla ice cream, but still. It tasted great. The warm center of the chocolate cake was oozing out and tasted great with the TWO scoops of vanilla bean ice cream and some whipped cream. Gluttony in a bowl. My friend also enjoyed her tiramisu, although she did admit that it did taste packaged and was nowhere near the authentic tiramisu we had at Veritable Quandary.
Service was decent, and the noise level was kind of loud because we were sitting next to two high school girls. Overall, I would recommend coming here when you, like us, are stuck in downtown craving dessert after 7 pm. Great price!
Pastini Pastaria (Downtown)
911 SW Taylor at 9th Avenue
Portland, OR 97205
Mon-Thu 11am-9pm
Fri-Sat 11am-10pm
Sun 3pm-9pm

Le Happy

2009-09-15T17:29:00.001-07:00

Portland $$ ****
This place is very Portland, at least my image of Portland. Slightly grungy with a couple of hipsters working. This place has very good crepes, but I prefer to eat my crepes at cutesy faux-French places like Chez Machin instead of dark, oddly-decorated places. But that's just me.
I ordered the saumon fumé, which was great. It was a huge crepe with salmon, white wine gruyere sauce, and green onions. They have a crepe called Le Trash Blanc, which is hilarious. If I actually liked bacon, cheddar, and PBR (see, I told you this place is so Portland!), I'd order it. Sadly, like other things about Le Happy, it's just not for me.

So in conclusion, you should go to Le Happy because it serves very yummy crepes (and not because of the swanky atmosphere)!
Le Happy (Pearl District)
1011 NW 16th Avenue
Portland, OR 97209
Mon-THu 5pm-1am
Fri 5pm-2:30am
Sat 6pm-2:30am

Everett Street Bistro

2009-09-15T17:15:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ *****
I'm actually not in the position to properly rate this place, considering I didn't have an actual meal, but my drink and free bread here have convinced me that I must return for a real meal.

My friend and I came here because she wanted a snack and I wanted a drink. We saw this place, and I had remembered being on its website, on which there were pictures of yummy breads. So in we went, expecting to buy a sourdough roll or something of that sort. It was only about 4pm, so we were the only real customers there. The setting is adorable - very understated yet elegant with large windows that allow you to check out all the cute (gay) guys walking around the Pearl District.
We ordered our usuals: my friend had her coffee, I had my hot chocolate. However, when I asked for a loaf of bread (don't judge me, that's really what I remembered seeing on ESB's website!), our waiter said that's not really what they offer here. So we looked at their menu. Eh. We weren't ready for a full meal. So we said never mind, we'll just have our drinks.
Despite not having a loaf of bread, our drinks were amazing. Their hot chocolate definitely rivals that of First Cup. In fact, I think it's better because it has a lovely aftertaste that I can't quite place my finger on.

The best part was when our waiter came out again and brought us some bread! I know that under normal circumstances, bread is complimentary with dinner (and sometimes lunch). But we had told him earlier we weren't interested in a full meal and just wanted our drinks. And he gave us a nice basket full of bread with olive oil and vinegar anyway. Yay!
So, Everett Street Bistro, we're going to come again when we're craving a large meal.

Everett Street Bistro (Pearl District)
1140 NW Everett Street
Portland, Oregon 97209
Mon-Thu 11:30am - 9pm
Fri-Sun 11:30am - 10pm

Marsee Bakery

2009-09-05T21:42:00.000-07:00

Portland $ *****
I absolutely love this bakery, which is just a short leisurely walk away from my school. Friendly service, lots of tables and large windows. They offer sandwiches, soups, and fresh baked pastries.
I ordered the merendine bun and a small hot chocolate. Fabulous! The merendine bun is their signature pastry - "a flaky butter bun infused with high quality Mexican vanilla." I'm so glad I decided to try this instead of going with my usual chocolate croissant, which is also amazing by the way. They serve Stumptown coffee, so the drinks are great as well.
My friend and I are adding this wonderful little neighborhood bakery to our list of places at which we are going to become regulars.
Marsee Bakery (Sellwood)
1625 SE Bybee Blvd
Portland, OR 97202

Cafe Broder

2009-08-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ *****
This may be my new favorite restaurant in Portland. Maybe. Broder is a Swedish cafe located on adorable Clinton, a street that I definitely need to explore more this year. Like at most good restaurants in Portland, you'll have to write your name on a list and wait for your name to be called. Once called, you'll be taken into a charming little room facing the kitchen (and all the cute cooks and waiters).
I ordered their specialty: Danish pancakes and a soft-boiled egg. Delicious! These are not normal pancakes. These are puffy balls, almost like malasadas without all that sugar and grease. They came with three sauces: maple syrup, jam, and lemon curd. I'm not usually a boiled egg person, but my soft-boiled egg was amazing. It came in a cute little dish and was smothered with spices. My other friends ordered scrambles, waffles, and the summer bord. Everyone was pleased. Although the sizes look small (think Japanese food - cute and organized), the food is quite filling. None of us were able to finish everything.
Broder is going to be another one of those restaurants at which I will become a regualar.
Cafe Broder (Clinton)
2508 SE Clinton St.
Portland, OR 97255
Mon-Sun 9am-3pm

Indish

2009-08-31T10:48:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ *****
Great food, nice atmosphere, good service, complicated menu. Indish is a tapas restaurant, which just means that everything is separate and they get to overcharge you for something silly, like rice. Nevertheless, everything we ordered was delicious.
My friends and I shared a tandoori chicken breast, pork balchao, bombay potatoes, basmati rice, and crispy grilled chapati. The chapati was definitely my favorite dish. It is a thin crispy yet soft, puffy bread brushed with butter and herbs. Then we ordered the chocolate pudding and mango cheesecake. There was definitely alcohol in that chocolate pudding (so it was good), but the mango cheesecake was a little disappointing.
Overall, this is a wonderful restaurant. Great for a date, especially if you're able to snag one of those loveseat couches. I'll be back.
Indish (Pearl District)
305 NW 21st Avenue
Portland, OR 97209
Tue-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, 5pm-late
Sat-Sun 5pm-late

Top of Waikiki

2009-08-31T10:39:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$$ ***
I'll be blunt: come for the view and not the food. Top of Waikiki is a revolving restaurant located in the heart of Kalakaua, offering spectacular views of Honolulu - different views throughout your meal! Unfortunately, the actual food and service are not as exciting as the location.
My friend and I came for desserts. We were seated at the top section, by the bar. Because of that, our waiter had to pass everything to us over the counter because he was stuck in the bar. Oh well. Maybe the food will make up for that? Nope. I ordered the Candy Bar, which really did taste like a candy bar (so why should I pay more than $2 for it?). However, it did come with ice cream and was nice presented on a sleek plate.
As I stated earlier, the food is mediocre, but the view itself is worthwhile. We stayed for exactly one full revolution, and left as soon as we saw the bank again. Perhaps dinner is better.
Top of Waikiki (Waikiki)
2270 Kalakaua Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815
Daily 5pm-9:30pm

Sunrise Restaurant

2009-08-31T10:28:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $ ****
This is an adorable little Okinawan restaurant in Kapahulu. It's tiny and a little unorganized, but the food is great and the atmosphere is endearing.
I ordered the sushi and soba combination. The soba was so good! I'm not usually a soba fan, but when it's as hot and tasty as it was at Sunrise, I guess I am a fan after all. The sushi chef gave me my sushi dish by passing it through a few tables along the way, eventually ending up at my table. Luckily, this is the type of place that can pull it off. It contained about ten pieces of assorted sushi, all wonderful. So far, Sunrise is my favorite Okinawan restaurant.Sunrise Restaurant (Kapahulu)
525 Kapahulu Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815

Yakiniku Seoul

2009-08-31T10:20:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ *****
Oh my goodness, I really should not be writing this post when I am stuck in Portland (and have no access to authentic Korean food). Yakiniku Seoul is AMAZING. We decided to finally try this place after numerous Koreans recommended it. A great place for a little celebration.
The process is interesting in that you choose from a wide selection of raw meats. Each meat dish comes with a variety of vegetables. Once everything is brought out to you, you cook it yourself. Apparently that is what "yakiniku" means. We ordered shrimp, steak, and kal bi. Delicious!
There's something just so wonderful about cooking your own food at a restaurant. The shrimp came with two sauces - both very good. I even liked the vegetables (and how often do I say that?). This is a nice change after the usual Korean take-out from Yummy's. I'm definitely coming back when I return to Hawaii.
Yakiniku Seoul (Moiliili)
1521 S King Street
Honolulu, HI 96826

Beachhouse at the Moana

2009-08-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$$$ *****
Another amazing restaurant at another amazing hotel. Walk straight into the Moana Surfrider (Hawaii's oldest hotel), into the relaxing, oceanfront restaurant. My friends and I came for dessert on a Monday night. Our host told us to sit anywhere, so we looked at our options. We could sit inside (but who wants that on such a beautiful night in Waikiki?) or outside on high chairs or on low chairs. We chose the cushy low chairs that we immediately sank into.
We ordered the tiramisu and cheecake bon bons(?). I'm glad we ordered only two for the three of us because the sizes were huge. The tiramisu was wonderful as usual. I'm not really a cheesecake person, so I didn't particularly care for the bon bons, but my friend loved them. The bon bons consisted of three chocolate, three shortbread, and three strawberries.

The laid-back atmosphere was a perfect way to end our night. The chef came around and asked how we were doing. Live music and great service - none of us wanted to leave. I'm definitely adding the Beachhouse to my list of favorite dessert places, and sometime I'll try the high tea.
Beachhouse at the Moana (Waikiki)
2365 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI
Breakfast: Sun-Sat 6am-11am
High Tea: Sun-Sat 1pm-4pm
Dinner: Sun-Sat 5:30pm-10pm

Yotteko-ya

2009-08-18T11:02:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $ *****
This is possibly the best ramen I've ever had. Possibly. Also called Kyoto Ramen, this bright neon red restaurant is located at McCully Shopping Center. Its menu claims that their ramen will make you look younger due to their unique collagen rich stock. Alright, whatever you say. Regardless of whether I wake up looking like a 9-year-old the next morning, their ramen is amazing.

They offer three different broths: shoyu, paitan and tonshio (clear and salt-based). As usual, I ordered the shoyu and was glad I did. The noodles were the perfect texture, and the char siu practically melts in your mouth.

You will never go back to that Top Ramen crap you buy from the store.
Yotteko-ya (McCully)
1960 Kapiolani Blvd
Honolulu, HI 96826
Lunch: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun 11am-2pm
Dinner: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat 5-11; Sun 5-9pm

Orchids

2009-08-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$$$ ****
Orchids is comparable to my favorite restaurant, Plumeria Beach House. Of course I'm biased (loyal, sentimental, etc.), so I still prefer Plumeria, but Orchids is pretty good.
Just like Plumeria Beach House, Orchids is located at Oahu's other 4-star hotel, Halekulani. It's an open-air, secluded beachfront restaurant facing Waikiki beach. Unlike Plumeria's unobstructed view of Kahala beach, the view at Orchids sadly has a little bush and railing that slightly block the beach, unless you are very tall (which I cannot speak for).
I ordered the corned beef hash and poached eggs. Both were perfect; it was the bland potatoes that were kind of a disappointment. I ordered rye bread, but the waiter gave me something else. When he finally told me they were out of rye bread, I told him I'll take sourdough instead. Well, guess what -- he had given me sourdough already. Hm. That was pure luck, man.
Service was good (Mariposa had better), and the atmosphere was relaxed -- exactly what you want when dining here on a lazy morning. All in all, if Plumeria Beach House suddenly shut down, I would probably start brunching at Orchids. However, since it doesn't look like that's happening any day soon, Plumeria remains my favorite restaurant in Hawaii.
Orchids at Halekulani (Waikiki)
2199 Kalia Rd
Honolulu, HI 96815
Breakfast: Mon-Sat 7:30am-11am
Lunch: Mon-Sat 11:30am-2pm
Dinner: daily 6pm-10pm
Brunch: Sunday buffet 9:30am-2:30pm

Wong Kwok Hometown Noodle House

2009-08-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $ ****
I love eating at hole-in-the-walls; you know the food will be good and the prices will be even better. This particular one is located on the edge of Chinatown. It looked relatively clean and was crowded with other Asians (the ONLY people we trust with good taste in authentic Asian food), so we decided to try it.
Wong Kwok specializes in Hong Kong cuisine. I ordered the rice noodles with roast duck and char siu. Yum! You can't go wrong with roast duck and noodles. There was some sort of oyster sauce on it, I believe. My friend ordered a soup dish, which had the same noodles as my dish. For dessert we ordered yam jin dui. I always end a Chinese meal with jin dui, but this was the first time I had yam jin dui. It was purple and very tasty. I will definitely try it again!
The portions were huge (more leftovers than what I had eaten), and the prices were as good as I expected - less than $10!
Wong Kwok Hometown Noodle House (Chinatown)
2 N. Hotel St.
Honolulu, HI 96817
Mon-Sat 9am-8pm
Sun 9am-3pm

Ramen Nakamura

2009-08-01T12:53:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $ ****
Think it's impossible to find cheap, authentic food in Waikiki? Well... maybe it is. But Ramen Nakamura is probably as cheap and authentic as you can get.
This is a simple ramen place located on Kalakaua Avenue. It's right next to Burberry, but don't let that intimidate you. The waitress is extremely welcoming (but maybe that's because we're Asians?), and our ramen was delicious. I had the typical shoyu ramen. It was huge, with pieces of char siu, bean sprouts, and other goodies. My friend also ordered some gyoza, and our waitress made some sauce for it right in front of us.
If you're from Hawaii, they give you a discounted kama'aina rate. Now I know where to eat in Waikiki!
Ramen Nakamura (Waikiki)
2141 Kalakaua Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815
Does not take credit cards

Menchie's Frozen Yogurt

2009-07-25T01:53:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $ ***
The yogurt craze has officially come to Hawaii. Last summer I tried Yogurtland by UH. This summer I tried Menchie's, a new yogurt place at Ward Warehouse. Like Yogurtland, you build your own yogurt. Choose from a variety of flavors: green tea, cake batter, cappuccino, mango tart, etc. Then you can add your own toppings: fruit, candy, cereal, sprinkles, etc. I was able to buy two small servings for my brother and myself for a little over $5. I prefer Yogurtland, but it may just be because I'm sentimental.

Menchie's Frozen Yogurt (Ward)
1050 Ala Moana Blvd.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Sun-Thu 11a-10p
Fri-Sat 11a-11p

Satura Cakes

2009-07-21T00:09:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $ ****
This is a cute little Japanese dessert chain specializing in cakes, which they make lighter than usual. My brother and I were looking for a place to get dessert in Waikiki. We were considering the typical ice cream shops, e.g., Coldstone, Dreyers, Häagen-Dazs, but then I remembered that I've been wanting to try that place in Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. So we walked past Moana Surfrider, west to the newly-renovated shopping center.
There were about 10 different cake flavors available. All were $3.95, and all were about the same size as a Cold Stone like it. Not bad. I had a hard time choosing between kona-misu (tiramisu), chocolate, and red velvet. I ended up getting kona-misu and was glad I did. We sat outside and watched the world go by. The cake was as light as I expected. There's a smooth layer of cake on the bottom, and the rest of it is almost like a mousse-whipped cream mixture with powdered chocolate on the top. Next time I'll try red velvet. They also make wedding cakes!
Satura Cakes (Waikiki)
2233 Kalakaua Ave
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Daily 9:30am - 10:30am

Mariposa

2009-07-20T23:55:00.001-07:00

Honolulu $$$ *****

I only come here about once every five years, and it always amazes me each time. Great food, wonderful service, relaxing atmosphere. Mariposa is located on the third floor of Neiman Marcus in Ala Moana, which explains a lot. Everything is airy here: white walls, light brown tropical-inspired fans, direct view of the Pacific Ocean, and even the chairs have this thick weave pattern through which you can see through the large openings.
My favorite thing about this place has to be the popovers. Oh yes, their famous popovers. Instead of boring bread, they serve these AIRY (apparently my word-of-the-day) popovers, served with apple butter when I went. Soft, light, and melts in your mouth - these popovers are the perfect introduction to the rest of your meal.
Next I ordered my entrée: pork tenderloin, which was sliced and placed on top of a layer of kale and mashed potatoes, surrounded by brown butter apple shire sauce. Deliciosa. Service here is impeccable - probably one of the best in Hawaii. I definitely don't want to wait another five years to return.
Mariposa (Ala Moana)
1450 Ala Moana Blvd
Honolulu, HI 96814
Daily 11am - 9pm

Goma Tei

2009-07-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $ ****
My family and I finally tried this place since we were stuck at Ala Moana for the Fourth of July fireworks show. It looks very fancy on the outside, but the dinner prices are a good deal, considering this is Ala Moana. Their specialty is ramen, and there are all sorts of ramen that you can choose from. I ordered the char siu shoyu ramen. Lots of char siu, and the serving size was huge. You also get to use the coolest spoon I've ever seen - it's a long wooden spoon (or laddle?) with which you can easily drink the soup. The waitstaff is very nice, and the atmosphere feels very clean, despite the restaurant's location right next to the busy food court on the dirty bottom floor.
Goma Tei (Ala Moana)
1450 Ala Moana Blvd
Honolulu, HI 96814

Banana Leaf Italian Bistro

2009-07-06T12:18:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ *****
Not a fan of the name, but I'm definitely of this restaurant. There are two - we went to the one at Market City, in the old Blockbuster lot. Cute and bright inside. I ordered a $10 margherita pizza. Unfortunately, I'm not a huge tomato person, but I still liked it. It's very tasty, with lots of cheese and spices. There were slices of tomato and sun-dried tomatoes covering the cheese. I wish they had offered a pepperoni pizza. Pretty good portions. Their specials are a good deal too.
Banana Leaf Italian Bistro (Kaimuki)
2919 Kapiolani Blvd # 221
Honolulu, HI 96816
Daily 10-2:30, 5-10pm

Brasserie Du Vin

2009-06-21T00:58:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ *****
Oh man, this place is fantastic. It reminds me of St. Honoré in Portland. Brasserie Du Vin is an adorable little French place in the newly-"hip" section of Chinatown (art galleries, boutique hotels, exotic restaurants, the usual...).
Since we were there on a Saturday afternoon, it was almost completely empty. We could either eat in the very dimly-lit indoors or go in the back to the outdoor patio. We opted for the outoor patio because the umbrella-shaded tables and tiny fountain beckoned us. Besides, it seemed to be cooler outside, thanks to our Hawaiian tradewinds.
I had the crostini sandwich with warm gorgonzola dolce and prosciutto served on a thin-sliced baguette. It was delicious. Three slices of baguette topped with proscuitto slices and the gorgonzola cheese, surrounding a tiny green salad. I had forgotten how salty proscuitto is, but I liked it anyway. My meal was $10. My friends ordered the mushroom & brie risotto, flat iron steak sandwich, and turkey & roast beef gouda croissant sandwich. Everyone was delighted with their meal.
As usual, I had to check out the bathrooms to see if they were up to par, and I was not disappointed. Pale yellow walls, black and white tiled floors, co-ed lavatories. The service was pretty good. Can't wait to return!
Brasserie Du Vin (Chinatown)
1115 Bethel Street
Honolulu, HI
Mon-Sat 11:30-late

Tropics Bar & Grill

2009-06-14T01:24:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ ***
After roaming around Hilton Hawaiian Village, my friends and I ended up here for lunch. It is right on Waikiki Beach and was very crowded, so we told the hostess that we'd take the "next table available" i.e., the one with no ocean view. That was fine, since we're locals.
Typical Waikiki restaurant -- fun, slightly overpriced, and a little tacky due to its clientele (tourists). Since we were in Waikiki, we ordered the most blatantly "Hawaiian" dishes on the menu: saimin, loco moco, and a Hawaiian cobb salad. The loco moco was pretty good, but I don't have particularly high standards for loco moco. Hamburger patty, egg, rice, and gravy - what could go wrong? Since it was Waikiki, everyone was pretty happy there, and the service was friendly. Open-air and surprisingly dimly-lit towards the back.
Tropics Bar & Grill (Waikiki)
2005 Kalia Road (Hilton Hawaiian Village)
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Daily 7am-10am, 11am-10pm

Payao Thai

2009-06-13T23:08:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ *****

Ironically, I only started getting into Thai food since I lived in Portland, probably because Thai food is the only Asian food that Portland has a lot of. Now that I'm back in Hawaii, I can explore even more Thai restaurants.
My co-worker and I kept hearing about Payao Thai from other co-workers, so we decided to try it at lunch one day. And boy, we now understand the hype. For a mere $10 (including tip and tax), you get the following:
Choice of appetizer: I chose 3 spring rolls. Another choice was chicken wings, but I forgot the others. The spring rolls were fabulous! Crispy (but not oily) on the outside, stuffed with goodies on the insie.
Choice of rice: Steamed, brown, or sticky. I ordered steamed, but our waitress must have misheard me because she brought back sticky; I don't regret it at all -- the sticky rice was amazing!
Choice of entree: Sorry again, I don't remember the other choices, but I ordered my favorite - pad thai. You can also choose what meat you want in the pad thai. So good! The noodles were tasty, the chicken was nice and soft, and there weren't too many peanuts.
We also ordered iced coffee for $2. It was crowded because everyone was on their lunch break, but service was pretty good and very courteous. Minimal décor with a few random paintings here and there. I will definitely be eating here the next time I'm too lazy to bring a sandwich to work!

Payao Thai (Kaka'ako)
500 Ala Moana Blvd (Restaurant Row)
Honolulu, HI 96813

Gyotaku

2009-06-13T22:53:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$$ *****
My family and I went here because we had just watched a Pan-Pacific parade in Waikiki, so of course we were craving some Japanese food. Since we were already on our way home when we discovered our craving, we went the only direction we could go: onward east. East of Kahala is Niu Valley, and in Niu Valley there is a Japanese restaurant called Gyotaku.
It's a typical Japanese restaurant: sleek décor, adorable dishes, and not cheap. However, it's a good deal. We went at 8:00 (eating at 8- like in New York!), so it was pretty empty. I had the miso butterfish, something that I cannot get in Portland for some reason. Large portions and very tasty. I also love their green tea.

My brother got something from the kids' menu, and it came with a drink, ice cream, and a toy. I miss those days. Yep, this place definitely satisfied our post-parade cravings.
Gyotaku (Niu Valley)
5730 Kalanianaole Highway
Honolulu, HI
Sun-Thu 11am-9pm
Fri-Sat 11am-10pm

JJ Bistro & French Pastry

2009-05-27T23:16:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ *****
My family used to be regulars at JJ when it was just starting a few years ago, but now we only go about once a year. Since opening, JJ has doubled in size, hired new workers that I don't recognize, and has become renowned throughout the island. Fortunately, its chocolate pyramids taste the same.
Yes, that's right. CHOCOLATE PYRAMID - JJ's specialty and the reason why this place exists. Sure, JJ also has a small French menu for lunch and dinner, and, sure, there is a huge glass display of their other amazing desserts. But the chocolate pyramids are a must. These pyramid-shaped mousse cakes are for chocolate lovers only. There is a chocolate cookie-like texture layering the bottom. The rest of it is pure rich chocolate mousse, and the entire thing is covered with cocoa powder. Yum. The regular size can feed 2 people and is $4.50. JJs offers bitsize ones (but why would you only want one bite???), 1/2 a pyramid, and larger-than-life sizes that you should probably bring to a party so you don't die of chocolate right there.

JJ Bistro & French Pastry (Kaimuki)
3447 Waialae Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96816
Mon–Sat 9am–9pm
Sun noon–9pm

town

2009-05-27T22:55:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ ****
Unsurprisingly, town (yes, lowercase "t") is owned by the same guy that owns Downtown @ the HiSAM. town is located in Kaimuki, one of my favorite underrated neighborhoods in Hawaii, because of its array of eateries and unpretentious charm.
The atmosphere of town is quite different from that of Downtown. While Downtown is bright and airy, with lots of light wood tones and artwork hanging on the walls, town is darker with a more industrial feel (think stainless steel tables, concrete floors, dark woods). However, both have quirky light fixtures, and both are very appealing.
Similar menu as Downtown, but at town, since it's located in Kaimuki instead of in the middle of downtown, you can actually see the tomato plants growing outside (all their food is organic and many of the menu items are grown right in their garden). I ordered a grass-fed hamburger on potato bread and french fries. The hamburger was pretty good, nothing to get excited about, but the fries were great, just like the ones found at Kua'aina. Thinly-cut and salty, just the way I like it. Large portions - I took home more than half of my lunch. Even Chelsea brought home leftovers, and she NEVER has leftovers!
Overall, I prefer the food at town more than at Downtown, but the atmosphere is nicer at Downtown - plus you get to go to the free art gallery. Regardless, I always enjoy my lunches at these two places.

town (Kaimuki)
3435 Waialae Ave
Honolulu, HI 96816
Mon-Thu 6:30am-9:30pm
Fri-Sat 6:30am-10pm

Downtown @ the HiSAM

2009-05-21T16:19:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ ****
Oh how I love museum cafés. This particular one is called Downtown (because surprise! it's located in downtown) and is located on the first floor of the Hawaii State Art Museum, conveniently nicknamed HiSAM.
My friend and I came here for lunch yesterday. Reservations are a good idea because it was pretty crowded. Clean, modern, bright wood tones, with art all over the walls. Typical museum café food: sandwiches, soups, and salads. I got the black forest ham and sharp cheddar panini. It came with a salad. The panini was great (crispy bread and lots of ham), but the salad was kind of disappointing. Oh well, I don't like vegetables much anyway. Our waiter was fun. My friend and I shared a flourless chocolate torte - delicious! I wonder what they use if they don't use flour?? Hmm I won't ask too many questions. It was quite filling.
Everyone else there seemed to be downtown workers on their lunch break, which makes sense considering its location. The panini cost about $10, and the torte was about $3. After eating, make sure to go upstairs to the free art galleries!
Downtown @ the HiSAM (downtown)
250 Hotel Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
Mon-Sat 11am-2pm, First Friday 5:30pm-9pm

Screendoor Restaurant

2009-05-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ *****
This is a lively Southern restaurant in the southeast. My friend and I came here for brunch on Saturday. According to online reviews, the food is great but the wait is long, so we expected to be waiting for about 45 minutes. Nope- after only about 5 minutes, we were seated right by the window.Screendoor is crowded, and crowded for a good reason. To start off, we ordered the biscuits and hot chocolate. The service is kind of slow, but I guess that's what to expect when the restaurant is packed. These were the best biscuits I've ever tasted! Warm, soft, with sugar on the top, and it comes with apple butter. I ordered my usual brunch: eggs, bacon, roasted potatoes, and toast. The eggs and bacon weren't as good as Gracie's or Mother's, but the potatoes were delicious. The best part was the portions: they were HUGE! My friend had ordered the banana french toast, which came with 4 slices, and she had only been able to eat one! I brought home over half of my meal for leftovers.
Since Screendoor is a Southern restaurant, there are some pretty interesting dishes, such as the fried chicken and waffle and, of course, grits. When you come, try to come with a small party so you're seated quickly.

Screendoor Restaurant (Southeast)
2337 E Burnside
Portland, OR 97214
Dinner: Tue-Sat 5:30pm-10pm, Sun 5:30pm-9pm
Brunch: Sat-Sun 9am-2:30pm
~$15 for biscuits, eggs, bacon, potatoes, toast, hot chocolate

Montage Restaurant

2009-05-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ ****
Fun, loud restaurant with good food and even better prices. I've been here twice, the first time for their famous butter cakes alone, the second time for actual dinner. Depending on when you come and how large your party is, you will probably have to wait (they don't take reservations). As soon as you enter, you can tell this is one of those places that help keep Portland weird. The waiters wear dressed-down white tuxes, the music is loud, the walls are red, and there's definitely a religious theme going on with their artwork. Well, religious with a twist. My favorite painting is the huge Last Supper painting covering one wall. The space ship in the background should give you a sense of the restaurant's atmosphere.

The best deal would have to be the steak: $16.75 for a juicy steak, garlic mashed potatoes, carrots, and a small caesar salad. If you're lucky, you'll have leftovers, with which your waiter will create an aluminum foil sculpture for you to take home - mine was a swan!
Besides the aluminum foil sculpture, you also want to take home leftovers because you want to save room for the butter cake. Words cannot describe this butter cake. Some people like the soft, weightless center the most, others like the more textured edges. Regardless of which section of the cake you'd prefer, you will fall in love with this cake. Another great thing about this place is that it's open late (for Portland)!

Montage Restaurant (Southeast)
301 SE Morrison Street
Portland, OR 97214
Lunch: Tue-Fri 11:30am-2pm
Dinner: Sun-Thu 6pm-2am, Fri-Sat 6pm-4am
~$20 for flatiron steak, garlic potatoes, vegetables, cornbread, salad, butter cake

Veritable Quandary

2009-05-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$ *****This is my new favorite place for lunch. Just as its website states, Veritable Quandary is a "dining oasis in the heart of the city." My friend and I came here for lunch on a rainy day. We were seated in the middle section of the restaurant, which looks a lot like a greenhouse, with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the greenery outside. The rain droplets sliding down the window panes and the thick white clouds encompassing the entire sky only added to the magical experience.
About two other tables were occupied the entire time we were there. I ordered the VQ Burger, which had white cheddar and aioli and came with wonderful peppered fries. My friend and I shared a tiramisu and hot chocolate for dessert. The food was delicious, the portions were huge (both of us brought home half our lunch), the atmosphere was relaxed and secluded despite its proximity to the busy streets of downtown, and the service was excellent.
My friend and I are definitely adding Veritable Quandary to our list of places at which we are going to become regulars.

Veritable Quandary (downtown)
1220 SW 1st Ave
Portland, OR 97204
Mon 12am-2:30am, 11:30am-2:30am
Tue-Wed,Sat 11:30am-2:30am
Thu-Fri 9:30am-2:30am
Sun 11:30am-12am
~$18 for burger, fries, tiramisu, hot chocolate

50 Plates

2009-05-15T09:12:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$ ***

Oh dear... where do I start? 50 Plates is a perfect example of a place that focused a little too much on presentation and not enough on the actual food quality. My friends and I decided to try this place because it looked interesting. And interesting it was.As soon as you walk in, you see a map of the United States using each state's license plate. Like the restaurant itself, this was a cool idea. The whole concept of 50 Plates is that each dish is from one of the fifty states. Ironically, this concept was nowhere to be found on the menu, and to this day, I still have no idea what state my "Dirty Rice" Beignets represented.The atmosphere was modern and dark. As soon as we were seated at a table a little too close to two women who seemed to be on the verge of their mid-life crises, we were told that water was free. Wait a minute -- our water was FREE? Isn't this America? We soon learned that this feeling of ridiculousness would be the common theme of our dinner.Our waiter (who, according to one of my friends, is quite cute) brought us two jars of sparkling and still water, which were much appreciated. The bread (also free!) consisted of too-chewy sourdough rolls and tiny biscuits.I had read online that we should order many "Smaller Plates" instead of individual "Larger Plates," so we shared seven plates: Chicken Nuggets, "Dirty Rice" Beignets, Castroville Artichoke Rolls, Oregon Dungeness Crab Jalapeno Poppers, Cheesy Poofs, Roasted Mushrooms "Sam Ward", Patrick's Fries, and something else that I don't remember. The roasted mushrooms dish was the only one we really liked. The chicken nuggets, artichoke roles, cheesy poofs, and fries were pretty good, but the portions were small.
One of the best things about 50 Plates was the ending: while paying our bill, we were given literally a spoonful each of delicious chocolate ganache. Why couldn't the rest of our meal be this tasty? The bill came out to about $13 each, which wasn't a bad price for dinner in the Pearl, but nowhere near as good enough to make us ever want to come back. As my friend described it, we had just eaten at an overpriced fast food restaurant. I will say, however, that my friends and I had a pretty fun time critiquing it.
50 Plates (Pearl District)
333 NW 13th Ave.
Portland, Oregon
Mon-Wed 11:30am-10pm
Thu-Sat 11:30am-11pm
~$14 for sharing 7 smaller plates

Two Brothers Cafe & Grill

2009-05-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ ***
My friends and I came here not even sure about where the Balkans was. And we're still not entirely sure. But we did have some pretty good Balkan food here. Start off by ordering a Cockta - Balkan Coke. Tastes better than Coke, but with no caffeine (so what's the point?). We shared cornbread & honey and the meat platter, which came with a nice variety of sausages, pork chops, french fries. The place could definitely work on its atmosphere, but the waitress was endearing.
Two Brothers Cafe & Grill (Hawthorne)
829 SE 39th Ave
Portland, OR 97214
~$10.50 for shared mixed plate, cockta, cornbread

Pambiche Cuban Restaurant

2009-05-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ ****This is a fun Cuban restaurant located in lively Northeast Portland. It reminds me of Saburo's because you write your name on a list and wait for about 45 minutes before you are led to a cramped table in a loud, crowded room. Of course, it's crowded for a reason. Our waitress was great, and my Cuban sandwich and Mexican hot chocolate were delicious. Definitely a place for a night out with the girls.Pambiche Cuban Restaurant (Northeast)
2811 NE Glisan St
Portland, OR 97232
Sun-Thu 11am-10pm
Fri-Sat 11am-12am
~$15 for sandwich, hot chocolate

Mother's Bistro and Bar

2009-05-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$ *****I was actually a little disappointed in this place - not because it was bad. On the contrary, I loved Mother's. There was so much hype around Mother's (Bill Clinton once dined here, my friends' recommendations, and online reviews), so my expectations were probably unfairly high. However, while eating there, I couldn't help but compare it to another one of my favorite brunch place, Gracie's; and I'll have to say that I prefer Gracie's.
Nevertheless, Mother's is a wonderful restaurant, and I will definitely be returning, maybe for lunch next time. I came here with a friend for brunch. I had eggs, bacon, and a hot chocolate - the same thing I always order at Gracie's.
Since I like lists, I will make one comparing Gracie's and Mother's:
Things better at GRACIE'S: hot chocolate, roast potatoes, toast, décor
Things better at MOTHER'S: eggs, location
Both had great but different atmospheres - Gracie's had a swanky Golden Age Hollywood feel to it, while Mother's had a cozy (surprise, surprise) motherly feel to it. Both were about the same price and both have reinforced my love for brunch.
Mother's Bistro and Bar (downtown)
212 SW Stark Street
Portland, OR 97204
Brunch: Tue-Fri 7am-2:30pm, Sat-Sun 9am-2:30pm
Dinner: Tue-Thu 5:30pm-9:00pm, Fri 5pm-10pm, Sat 5pm-10pm
~$15 for eggs, bacon, toast, potatoes, hot chocolate

Eleni's Philoxenia

2009-05-13T12:23:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ ****

Nice Greek place in the Pearl District. Dark, loft-like space, with lots of mirrors and candles. You can also see into the kitchen, which is a nice touch. I accidentally ordered an appetizer instead of an entrée, but my three meatballs were surprisingly filling, which explains why I didn't realize my mistake until I got my check - $9 instead of $12. Not a bad deal. There is also another Eleni's in Sellwood with a much different atmosphere.
Eleni's Philoxenia (Pearl District)
112 NW 9th Avenue
Portland, OR 97209
Tue - Thurs 5:00 - 10:00 pm
Fri - Sat 5:00 - 11:00 pm
~$12 for pasta

La Carreta Mexican Restaurant

2009-05-13T12:19:00.001-07:00

Portland $$ ***

Definitely the least sketchy place still open in Portland when you're hungry at midnight. It's a lively place, even late at night, with bright walls, Mexican pop music, and friendly service. The portions are huge.

La Carreta Mexican Restaurant (Southeast)
4534 SE McLoughlin Blvd
Portland, OR 97202

Saint Cupcake

2009-05-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

Portland $ *****Saint Cupcake is a cute pink-and-teal cupcake shop in the Pearl District. It offers bite-size and regular-size, allowing you to try the many flavors that change daily. My favorites are the chocolate with cream cheese icing and the chocolate with hot fudge.
Saint Cupcake (Pearl District)
407 NW 17th ave @ Flanders
Portland, OR 97209
Tue - Thurs 9am - 8pm
Fri 9am - 10pm
Sat 10am - 10pm
Sun 10am - 6pm

Higgins Restaurant & Bar

2009-05-13T11:41:00.001-07:00

Portland $$$$ *****
This is the best restaurant I have been to in Portland.

That being said, I've only been there once, and I could only afford to go there once because my friend's parents were visiting and paid for my meal. (Don't you just love parents?)
Cozy, elegant French restaurant located on the edge of downtown. I forgot our waiter's name, but he was fantastic. All I remember is that he's Scottish and obviously loved his job.

Another great thing about not having to pay for your own meal is that, for the first time in months, I could actually have a multi-course meal. My friend and I shared the oyster appetizer, while her parents shared the charcuterie plate. For my entrée, I ordered the special, which was the cod laid on top of a cloud of mashed potatoes and roasted carrots, drizzled with an apple vinagrette. De-licious! Dessert was amazing as well, but that was to be expected since I always love dessert.
Hopefully another friend's parents will come because I am dying to return to Higgins!

Higgins Restaurant and Bar (downtown)
1239 SW Broadway
Portland, OR 97205
Mon-Fri 11:30am-12:00am
Sat 4:00pm- 12:00am
Sun 4:00pm-12:00am

Via Veneto

2009-05-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

San Francisco $$$ ****
Proof that spontaneity often leads to good results. My friend and I were shopping on Fillmore and unsurprisingly became hungry. We wandered around, crossing the street and changing directions randomly. Finally we found our way into this cheerful little restaurant. Pale yellow walls, Italian food, and a smiling host - yes, this place will do.
The food was decent, but the service and atmosphere were great. The restaurant seems to be run by a boisterous Italian family, but I happened to appreciate their little bickering in the background. The owner walked from table to table, making conversation. When he found out we were from Hawaii, he pointed to the man a few tables away and told us that he was also from Hawaii. A few minutes later, he brought the man over. We discovered that the man and I lived only a few streets away from each other. Small world!

Via Veneto (Pacific Heights)
2244 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94115

Poleng Lounge

2009-05-11T17:36:00.000-07:00

San Francisco $$$ *****
I have never seen so many young Filipinos in one restaurant at one time. This is definitely where most of the Asian population of USF hangs out at night. The most interesting Filipino menu I've ever seen, offering courses such as: Sizzling Sisig (Pork medley with coconut vinegar, onions, peppers, and fresh calamansi), Bo Luc Lac "Shaking Beef" (Tender marinated sirloin stir fried with nuoc mam red onions and peppercress), and Walu Kinilaw (Butterfish cooked in sugarcane
vinegar, lime juice and coconut milk, with thai chiles, toybox tomatoes and cilantro). I would highly recommend the crispy adobo wings, but everything was good and relatively cheap.
Poleng Lounge (Richmond)
1751 Fulton Ave
San Francisco, CA 94117
Daily 4pm-1am

Kara's Cupcakes

2009-05-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

San Francisco $ *****Best cupcakes I have ever had. Neither Magnolia, St. Cupcake, nor Jones can compare to Kara's light and airy cupcakes. Eating the frosting is like eating a whipped cloud, not that clouds taste that good. Unlike other cupcakes I've had, these are moist and don't make you feel like you've just ate a whole chunk of cake.
Kara's Cupcakes (Ghiradelli Square)
900 North Point
San Francisco, California 94109
Mon-Thurs 10am-8pm
Fri-Sat 10am-9pm
Sun 10am-6pm

Zen Bistro

2009-05-11T16:50:00.000-07:00

San Francisco $$$ *****
The best part wasn't the surprisingly good Japanese food, nor was it the ridiculously hip atmosphere. The best part was that I was with my two great-aunts when I came and realized they are more hip than I am.
Zen Bistro is a new restaurant in Millbrae (in the Bay Area). We ordered a bunch of appetizers and shared. The waiters were so excited when they heard we were from Hawaii because the chef is from Hawaii too. The menu was very interesting, food tasted great, and the atmosphere felt like you were in a lounge in Tokyo.Zen Bistro (Millbrae)
420 Broadway
Millbrae, CA 94030

Taylor's Automatic Refresher

2009-05-11T16:35:00.000-07:00

Napa $$ ****

We passed by this roadside diner on our way from San Francisco to Napa and had to come back for lunch because my friend remembered she read about it in a magazine. If you're looking for burgers, milkshakes, and fries, this is the place to go. It was drizzling when we went, so we were lucky to get a table with an umbrella.

Taylor's Automatic Refresher (Napa)
644 1st St
Napa, CA 94559
Mon-Sun 10:30 am-9:00pm

C'era Una Volta

2009-05-11T16:27:00.000-07:00

San Francisco $$$$ *****
Amazing Italian restaurant in Alameda. Great food, great service, pretty yellow walls, yadda yadda yadda. A little on the pricey side, but worth every cent (especially when I'm not paying for it).
C'era Una Volta (Alameda)
1332 Park Street
Alameda, CA 945011Alameda, CA

Ala

Sweet Masterpiece

2009-05-11T14:32:00.001-07:00

Portland $$ ****
Wonderful little dessert place in the Pearl District. Friendly service, soothing atmosphere, great desserts. I order the chocolate molten cake every time.
Sweet Masterpiece Chocolate & Coffee Bar (Pearl District)
922 NW Davis St
Portland, OR 97209
Tue-Thu, Sun 9am-11pm
Fri-Sat 9am-12am

First Cup Coffee House

2009-05-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

Portland $ *****
My favorite coffeeshop ever! They serve Stumptown and the best bagels I've ever had. They have a wide selection of bagels: asiago, parmesan basil, whole wheat, jalapeño, etc. You can't really compete with that. Their hot chocolate is amazing.

I've been coming here every week and am due for a free coffee soon (I have one of those frequent customer cards).
My only (but very important) complaint is that their hours suck. Why why why do they close at 5pm? I am a firm believer that any coffeeshop located within two miles of a college should be open 24-hours, or at least until the sun sets. Jeez.First Cup Coffee House (Eastmoreland)
4103 SE Woodstock Blvd
Portland, OR 97202
Mon-Fri 6:00am-5:00pm
Sat-Sun 7:00am-5:00pm

Belly Timber

2009-05-11T14:17:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$ ****

This is an interesting restaurant. Starting with the name, down to the menu, everything about this place is a little odd. For the atmosphere and food, the prices are reasonable. My friend's burger came with an actual beef bone that she was supposed to suck on. I won't be running back, but I will definitely return sometime to see what other strange things they'll do with their dishes.
Belly Timber Restaurant & Bar (Hawthorne)
3257 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Portland, OR 97214
Tues-Sun 5pm-close
Brunch weekend 9am-2pm

Tom Yum Thai Cuisine

2009-05-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ *****

This place is so convenient for me, it's ridiculous. About two blocks away from my school, great Thai food, cheap prices, large portions, and friendly atmosphere. What's not to love? I usually get the beef noodles and always have leftovers for the next day.
Tom Yum Thai Cuisine (Eastmoreland)
4309 SE Woodstock Blvd
Portland, OR 97206

Saint Honoré Boulangerie

2009-05-11T14:07:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ *****
St. Honoré is a warm boulangerie located near Nob Hill. Great food, authentic atmosphere. You order at the counter, and they'll bring your food over to your table. Their turkey croissants are delicious. I usually have lunch here before walking down to 23rd for some intense (window)shopping.
Saint Honoré Boulangerie (Nob Hill)
2335 NW Thurman Street
Portland, OR 97210
Daily 7:00am-8:00pm

Sweet Melissa Patisserie

2009-05-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

New York $$ *****
Sweet Melissa is exactly what it says it is: sweet. Located in adorable Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, this little restaurant is quaint and cheery. I had a delicious chocolate souffle cake.
Sweet Melissa Patisserie (Cobble Hill)
276 Court Street
New York, NY 11231
Mon-Thurs 7:30am-10:00pm
Fri 7:30am-midnight
Sat 8:00am-midnight
Sun 8:00am-10:00pm

Room Service

2009-05-11T13:52:00.000-07:00

New York $$ *****
This is such a fun, quirky place. Located in Chelsea, this Thai restaurant was almost completely empty when we went. Apparently this restaurant was modeled after hotels in Thailand that the owner stayed at. Lots of purple doors, mirrors, and even one of those round chairs from the 60s facing the window. The food was good too, may I add. I had the pad thai, and it filled me up.
However, the best part, I must say, is the bathroom. Wow. They had way too much fun designing the bathroom. Black mosaic tiled walls, a DISCO BALL, mirrors, and dance club music blasting. If I was writing a bathroom blog, Room Service would easily win.Room Service Restaurant (Chelsea)
166 8th Avenue
New York, NY 10011
Mon-Thurs 11:00am-11:30pm
Fri 11:00am-1:00am
Sat 10:00am-1:00am
Sun 10:00am-11:30pm

Magnolia Bakery

2009-05-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

New York $ *****
Do I even need to write a post for this? In case you live in a bubble and/or don't watch Sex and the City (good for you!), Magnolia Bakery is a New York chain specializing in cupcakes. Huge, delicious cupcakes. I will have fond memories of this place regardless of the cupcakes' taste because I am in love with New York. However, this place is actually quite good.

Magnolia Bakery
401 Bleeker Street (West Village)
New York, NY 10014

200 Columbus Avenue (Upper West Side)
New York, NY 10023

1240 Avenue of the Americas (Midtown)
New York, NY 10036

Pho Van

2009-05-11T13:43:00.001-07:00

Portland $ *****

This place made me realize my love for pho, which is a Vietnamese noodle soup dish. Pho Van is a Portland chain. I usually eat here on Friday afternoons before 5 because the pho is only $5 instead of $8. Large portions that taste even better when you add one of the many hot sauces available, Pho Van is perfect for rainy Portland days. My friend and I have become regulars at the one on Hawthorne.

Pho Van (Hawthorne)
3404 SE Hawthorne Blvd.
Portland, OR 97214
Tues - Sun 11am - 9:30pm

Saburo's Sushi House Restaurant

2009-05-11T13:35:00.001-07:00

Portland $ ****

This place is definitely quantity, not quality. The sushi at Saburo's are MASSIVE. Let me repeat that: MASSIVE. Be prepared to wait about 45 minutes before you're seated. You'll have to write your name on a list and wait to be called. Luckily there is a Starbucks close by (why is it that I always seem to be using Starbucks either as bathrooms or as Saburo's waiting areas?). Once you're called, some guy will seat you in a cramped table right next to other people. They have a pretty good variety of sushi for cheap prices. This isn't exactly the best sushi I've had (although I must say, the salmon is fabulous), but like I said earlier, the sushi is MASSIVE. Expect leftovers.

Saburo's Sushi House Restaurant (Sellwood)
1667 SE Bybee Blvd
Portland, OR 97202
Mon-Thurs 5:00pm-9:30pm
Fri 5:00pm-10:30pm
Sat 4:30pm-10:00pm
Sun 4:30pm-9:00pm

Gracie's

2009-05-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$ *****
One of my favorite restaurants in Portland. I've been here for brunch a few times. Gracie's is located in Hotel DeLuxe, which definitely has a Golden Age Hollywood theme going on. The restaurant is beautiful: lots of gilded gold and long curtains and mirrors. Great service, great food, and always empty (why???).
Their brunch is fantastic and a very good deal considering the service and atmosphere. I always get the eggs, bacon, potatoes, and hot chocolate. Their roasted potatoes are some of the best I've ever had- flavorful, crunchy, and mixed with yams and sweet potatoes. Their hot chocolate is also amazing (tastes a bit like Stumptown), and their toast is from Grand Central (need I say more?).Gracie's at Hotel DeLuxe (downtown)
729 SW 15th Avenue
Portland, OR 97205
Breakfast: Mon-Fri 6:30am-10:30am
Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:00pm
Dinner: Daily 5:00pm-10:00pm
Brunch: Sun & Sat 8:00am-2:00pm

Kenny & Zuke's Delicatessan

2009-05-11T13:17:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$ ****
Just like Mexican food, Hawaii does not have Jewish food due to its lack of Jewish residents. My friend introduced me to Kenny & Zuke's, and I instantly fell in love. Delicious bagels and latkes for breakfast at a hip, open restaurant near the Pearl District. I've only been there for breakfast, but their sandwiches are supposed to be good (and apparently as big as your head).
Kenny & Zuke's Delicatessan (Pearl District)
1038 SW Stark St
Portland, OR 97205
Mon-Thurs 7am-8pm
Fri 7am-9pm
Sat 8am-9pm
Sun 8am-8pm

Adobe Rose Café

2009-05-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ ****
Now, I'm from Hawaii, and Hawaii has no Mexicans. Therefore, I am not at all an expert on Mexican food. In fact, for a while I had convinced myself that I didn't like Mexican food. That is, until I came to Adobe Rose. As stated earlier, this may or may not be authentic Mexican food, but my friend from New Mexico likes it as much as I do, so it can't be that bad. Cheerful place that's walkable distance from my school.
Adobe Rose Café (Sellwood)
1634 SE Bybee Blvd
Portland, OR 97202
Tue-Sat 11:30am- 2:00pm
Tue-Thu 5:00pm- 9:00pm
Fri-Sat 5:00pm-10:00pm

Daphne's Greek Café

2009-05-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

Portland $ ****

I will be blunt: Daphne's is a Greek fast food chain. Once you admit that and get over your "I'm never going to a fast food chain again" mantra, Daphne's becomes a great place, especially if you're like me and enjoy studying off-campus on a Friday. On a few Friday afternoons, I have come here, sat down at my favorite booth in the back, read Kant, and ordered Greek food every so often. Their $1 baklavas are a good deal. The one good thing about chains is that you will get free refills.

Daphne's Greek Café (downtown)
538 SW 6th Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
Mon-Fri 11am-7pm
Sat-Sun 11am-6pm

Shirokiya

2009-05-11T12:52:00.001-07:00

Honolulu $ *****
Undoubtedly one of the best deals in Ala Moana. Shirokiya is a huge Asian store with a mix of upscale clothing, home appliances, and entertainment. As if it didn't have enough, it also has a food section in which you can select from a buffet-style section or already-packaged meals. All are great bargains and authentically Asian.
Shirokiya Food Corner (Ala Moana)
1450 Ala Moana Blvd
Honolulu, HI 96814

The Fat Greek

2009-05-11T12:48:00.001-07:00

Honolulu $$ ****
Hawaii does not have many Greeks and, therefore, does not have many Greek restaurants. The Fat Greek arrived last summer in Kaimuki. It's a cute place where you order and pick up at the counter and can get unlimited soda. The food isn't the best, but it's unsurprisingly cheaper than the Greek place in Kahala.
The Fat Greek (Kaimuki)
3040 Waialae Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96816
Daily 10am-10pm

The Pavilion Café

2009-05-11T12:41:00.001-07:00

Honolulu $$ *****I always like museum restaurants. There's just something about them. Maybe the clientele demand better restaurants, or maybe just knowing that you're going to see great art after makes the meal taste better. Whatever the reason, I always enjoy coming to the Pavilion Café.
Typical cafe food: soups, sandwiches, salads, and pastas. It's located in the new courtyard of Academy of Arts, which is a lovely setting surrounded by the waterfall. The chicken pasta is fabulous. I usually get the 1/2 turkey sandwich and soup, which is usually the best deal. End the meal with a delicious chocolate pot de creme. Another good deal: you can visit the museum for free if you have lunch here!
The Pavilion Café at Honolulu Academy of Arts
900 South Beretania
Honolulu, HI 96814
Tues-Sat 11:30am-2pm

Yogurtland

2009-05-11T12:33:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $ ****Hawaii is finally getting into the yogurt craze - soon we'll be seeing more gelato and creperies. This particular yogurt place is right next to UH. You get to customize your own yogurt, add whatever you want on it, and pay according to its weight. There are some pretty interesting flavors, such as green tea, Irish mint creme, and toasted coconut, but since I am a wuss I got chocolate.

Yogurtland (Manoa)
1810 University Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96822
Daily 10am-10pm

Papa Haydn

2009-05-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

Portland $$$ *****

Hands down, Portland's most popular dessert place. I haven't tried any of their other meals, but Papa Haydn's desserts are definitely their specialty. For about $8 you can have an autumn meringue, cassata, boccone dolce, chocolate hazelnut torte, lemon chiffon cake. Every time I go, I have to first look at the dessert case and see which one I feel like having that day. Upscale setting. There are two: one in Nob Hill and one in Sellwood.

Papa Haydn
701 NW 23rd Ave (Nob Hill)
Portland, Or 97210
Mon-Thurs 11:30am-10pm
Fri-Sat 11:30am-12am
Sun 10am-10pm

5829 SE Milwaukie Ave (Sellwood)
Portland, OR 97202
Mon-Thurs 11:30am-10pm
Fri-Sat 11:30am-12 am
Sun 10am-9pm

Chez Machin

2009-05-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ *****
Oh how I love this place. My friend and I are regulars here, always coming for their nutella crepes after wandering around Hawthorne. Everything about Chez Machin is charming: the tables are covered in red checkerboard tablecloths, the walls are rustic red, Edith Piaf plays on the stereo, and the waitress is adorable. Ask for the back room, and the hostess will show you to a hidden back room that is usually emptier and has a fountain.
Chez Machin (Hawthorne)
3553 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Portland, OR 97214
Mon-Thu 11am-9pm
Fri 11am-10pm
Sat 9am-10pm
Sun 9am-9pm

Tani's Japanese Kitchen

2009-05-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ *****
Tani's is perfect for my random Japanese food cravings when I don't have time/energy to catch a bus off campus. Conveniently located on Woodstock, this adorable Japanese restaurant serves simple, moderately-priced meals in a relaxing atmosphere. I usually order the grilled salmon smothered in teriyaki sauce or the tonkatsu (pork katsu). I love their tea, which is free. Their sushi is tasty but tiny compared to the massive sushi at Saburo's, another Japanese place I go to satisfy my cravings. The chefs are actually Japanese and you can chat with them if you sit at the sushi bar. Great service and reliable food every time.

Tani's Japanese Kitchen (Woodstock)
4807 SE Woodstock Boulevard
Portland, OR 97206
Monday-Saturday 10:30am-8:30pm

Kua'Aina

2009-05-11T10:40:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ ****

I go to Buca di Beppo for dinner, but when I'm at Ward during lunchtime I always head over to Kua'Aina. They have delicious burgers and some of the best fries I've ever had. Some people don't like their fries, but I happen to like thin, peppered french fries. You order at the counter and wait to pick it up. It's always busy because it's located in the center of the Ward shopping area.

Kua'Aina (Ward)
1116 Auahi St Honolulu, HI 96814
Mon-Sat 10:30am-9pm Sun 10:30am-8pm

The Mandalay

2009-05-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ *****How often do you eat dim sum with cloth napkins? For me, not often, which is why I love Mandalay. This is a fairly new restaurant in downtown Honolulu. The dim sum is great, and so are the regular meals if you come for dinner. Clean, elegant setting that is a nice change from the typical Chinatown restaurants. Plus, the seats are some of the comfiest chairs I have ever sat in.

The Mandalay (downtown)

1055 Alakea Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
Daily 10:30 am-10pm
Dim sum served 10:30 am-5 pm

Buca di Beppo

2009-05-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Honolulu $$ ****

Another Italian chain, but I happen to like Buca di Beppo because of all the fond memories I have of this place. For Hawaii teenagers, this was the classic place to host your birthday party. My friend and I frequented this place whenever we came to Ward. Their food is good, but the main draw is definitely the atmosphere. The walls are warm and literally covered with odd photographs that make great conversation pieces - although, for a good conversation, be prepared to yell.
Buca di Beppo (Ward)
1030 Auahi Street
Honolulu, HI 96814
Sunday - Thursday 11am-10pm
Friday - Saturday: 11am-11pm

Koji Osakaya

2009-05-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

Portland $$ ***
I come here when I'm in downtown, craving convenient Japanese, and not yet willing to settle for the food court variety. That's exactly how to describe Koji Osakaya - convenient Japanese. It's not the best Japanese, but it's decent enough for the price, and it's located on Broadway, my favorite street in downtown because it's actually busy - like a real city! It's a Portland chain, and I think there's even one located in Seattle now. The donburi is a good deal, and so are their lunches.

Koji Osakaya (downtown)
606 SW Broadway
Portland, OR 97205-3401

23Hoyt

2009-05-11T10:06:00.001-07:00

Portland $$$$ ****I came here once with my friends to celebrate the end of fall break. Located in adorable Nob Hill, this is a dimly-lit restaurant in which, as usual, I felt like the youngest one there. The tables are pretty close to each other, but luckily we were by a couple of nicely-dressed elderly women. I had a tasty scallop dish and finished it off with a chocolate tart. Entrées range from $20-28, and they offer a 3-course meal for a mere $25. 23Hoyt was a nice place to celebrate something special without completely breaking the bank.

23Hoyt (Nob Hill)
529 NW Twenty-third at Hoyt
Portland, Oregon 97210
Tuesday - Saturday, 5 pm

Escape New York Pizza

2009-05-11T09:54:00.000-07:00

Portland $ *****A typical day on Nob Hill consists of getting a "low-class" lunch/dinner at Escape New York Pizza and then a "high-class" dessert at Papa Haydn. Despite Escape New York Pizza's "low-class" status, their pizza is delicious, and has been approved by fellow New Yorkers.
Get a slice for about $2-3, sit on one of the stools surrounded by pictures and newspaper articles of New York and liberal propaganda or, if the weather allows, sit at one of the two tables outside and watch (s)Nob Hill shoppers pass.

Escape New York Pizza (Nob Hill)
622 NW 23rd Ave
Portland, OR 97210

Waiola Shave Ice

2009-05-11T09:48:00.001-07:00

Honolulu $ *****This is possibly the best shave ice I've ever had. Shave ice, in case you are not a local, is the same thing as snow cones. Smooth and flavorful, Waiola's shave ice are on another league, not to mention dirt-cheap. Just be prepared - seating consists of two benches right outside the order window and a little grocery store.

Waiola Shave Ice (Kapahulu)
2135 Waiola Ave corner of Paani Street
Honolulu, HI 96805