New Restaurant Alert - Chazz: A Bronx Original

Chazz: A Bronx Original, a new Italian American restaurant in Harbor East will be opening THIS Friday, June 10th!

The restaurant is a partnership between actor Chazz Palminteri and restaurateurs Sergio and Alessandro Vitale of Aldo’s. 

Chazz takes diners on a trip down Arthur Avenue, the main culinary thoroughfare of the Bronx, and provides one-of-a-kind “Bronx-style” pizza baked in a coal-fired oven, homemade Italian American specialties and a bar program including hand-crafted cocktails (including homemade limoncello!!!!) and an extensive wine list.

Chazz: A Bronx Original
1415 Aliceanna Street
410-522-5511
street and valet parking
open for dinner from 5 p.m. to midnight, seven days a week, with lunch, late-night dining, take-out and curbside service to be offered in the coming months.

Jason's Deli, Timonium

 JB's Bagelini

As I mentioned here, Jason's Deli offered their patrons two days of free entrees while they were training their staff.  Of course I took full advantage of that!

I ordered the JB's Bagelini ($5.29) - Smoked turkey breast, provolone, smoked red pepper-cilantro aioli and fresh made guacamoke, pico de gallo.  Pressed between an olive oil toasted bagel.  For the price this was a surprisingly good and filling sandwich.  I loved the aioli, whereas the guacamole wasn't all that exciting.  This is a great lunch sandwich. 

Chicken Panini

Dan ordered the Chicken Panini ($7.29) - Marinated chicken breast, provolone, basil pesto with pine nuts, roma tomatoes, spinach.  Pressed between olive oil French bread. Now this sandwich was not a favorite of mine.  I thought the chicken was overly spiced, which made the entire sandwich too salty.  All the ingredients sound great - but something was definitely off.

 

HALF Muffaletta

I was able to try a bit of their signature sandwich, the Muffaletta, and immediately wished I had ordered one.  If you love olives, you will love this sandwich.  Even if you don't even like olives you may very well like this sandwich because the bread is just that good.  

And look at that plate!  That's HALF a sandwich right there!!! You can order either the Ham and Hard Salami Muffaletta or the Turkey Muffaletta.  You also have the choice of 3 sizes - Quarter ($6.29), Half ($7.99) or the Whole (9inches - $11.99). The Muffaletta bread is spread with an olive mix and antipasti with olive oil and provolone and your choice of meats. There's no way you're leaving hungry after half of that thing - or even a quarter!!!!! 

California Club

The next day I tried the California Club ($6.99) - Croissant with turkey breast, bacon, swiss, tomato, sprouts, mayo, and guacamole.  I decided to get fresh fruit on the side, which was served with a creamy sour cream based dip that I enjoyed.  This sandwich was great, I really really liked it, and even liked the guacamole better this time around.  It also made me appreciate how much I love croissant sandwiches, of which there are many on the menu.

All in all, this was a great sandwich shop, and I expect it's going to give Panera Bread some stiff competition,  considering they are in the same shopping center.  The salad bar looked interesting and fresh, and they were also giving out free soft serve - which I heard they were going to continue doing!  The space itself is huge and definitely family friendly.  All in all, those free entree days worked out well - I can't wait to go back for an inexpensive and tasty lunch and Dan's already been back TWICE!!

Jason's Deli, Timonium - FREE MEAL

2/8/11 EDIT: Check out my review of the restaurant here!

Jason's Deli is celebrating their opening by having a great deal!  Come TONIGHT (1/28)  from 5-7pm and TOMORROW (1/29) from 11:30-1:30pm for a GREAT DEAL: ANY MENU ITEM + drink for FREE.  They are asking for a $1 donation to the Make-Your-Wish foundation as well :)

What a great deal!  You bet I'll be there!!!!! Look at this menu!!!

Jason's Deli
2159 York Road
Timonium, MD 21093

Thanks to a reader for the tip!!! :)

Hollywoods Burger Bistro, Canton

UPDATE: THIS RESTAURANT IS NOW CLOSED

I was invited to dinner at Hollywoods Burger Bistro, formerly home of Tangier's and Red Fish.  Though I was initially nervous about this restaurant's location - I think Hollywoods has the right kind of menu to get people to keep returning - it's interesting.  Seriously, take a look.  It's funny, first of all, but the choices are so intriguing that I think a lot of people will be willing to come back to try everything on the menu. I know I certainly want to, especially since I am bummed I didn't get to try these yummies:

o Nicole Kidman - $6 (sweet potato fries drizzled with chocolate and a side of cinnamon honey mustard)

o Princess Di Burger - $11 (bacon, sunny side egg, Lincolnshire cheddar on a toasted English muffin)
o Cheech & Chong - $13 (pot roast served over mash potatoes ) :)  

It also helps a restaurant when the food is delicious, and luckily, this place has that going for it as well!

Thai Calamari

So, let's start with the appetizers!  The Thai Calamari ($9) had a lovely sweet sauce, with a bit of a kick.  I’m usually not a fan of calamari, but perhaps I’m not a fan of it with marinara sauce because I definitely loved it served Thai-style. In fact, this was my favorite!

Sashimi Tuna Loin

The Sashimi Tuna Loin ($11) came in really nice thick slices with great seasoning, and topped with the Thai sauce that was also on the calamari. Excellent.  

Lobster Mac and Cheese

Not watching your weight?  Calories to blow?  Get this! :)  No, but seriously, the Lobster Mac and Cheese ($12) is just INCREDIBLY decadent.  It's so rich and creamy with a hint of sweetness from the lobster, of which there are plenty of large chunks.  Definitely share this treat – or order it along with a salad for a good dinner.  

 

Edamame

The Edamame ($6.50) was perfectly seasoned - definitely a crunchy and consistent appetizer for those watching your weight :)

Break Up Burger

Don't you just love these names?  The Break-Up Burger ($12) apparently pairs well with a Haagen-Dazs chocolate shake, according to the menu, but I'm not sure you're going to have room for that!  This burger is made with double thick apple wood smoked bacon and topped with chocolate (it doesn't say what kind, but I'd guess bittersweet).  

I was intrigued, but definitely a bit nervous, about trying this burger because of the chocolate (especially after the Peanut Burger at Abbey Burger Bistro), but the result was surprisingly tasty!  Despite the fact that it was dripping with chocolate it really wasn't overwhelmingly because the sweetness was tempered by the salty bacon.  You don't need to have gone through a messy breakup to have this burger, you just need to have a big appetite!

Additionally, if you want to create your own masterpiece - they have a great Create Your Own burger list with the greatest list of choices you will ever see!  Seriously. 

One important word about their burgers - they are fed an all-grain diet, free of hormones and steroids.  Knowing this, I am EXTREMELY impressed their prices are what they are.  You can taste the quality of the meat.  

Turkey Burger

On the other side of the spectrum is the Turkey Burger ($11) made with ground turkey, black beans, avocado, cheese, lettuce and crème fresh.  I LOVED this burger.  This is along the lines of something I would usually order, so I am so glad it met my expectations.  It tasted healthy yet hearty, very satisfying.

Carrot Cake

On to the desserts!  First up was the Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese and Bacon.  Now, I am not a bacon fanatic, so I wasn't a huge fan of this - but I would imagine there are bacon lovers out there who would jump at the chance to try this.  Once again, I love the creativity of this place and they get bonus points for actually making the desserts in-house! I was told that they are constantly changing their desserts, so that's always fun!

Pistachio Cake

The Pistachio cake was definitely more of my taste - very light and moist with a creamy icing.  Loved it. 

They also have a ton of specials every day, here's a list and check it out here for more details:

Happy Hour Every Day 4-7pm: $3 House Wine, Yuengling & Loose Cannon Draught and $5 menu items
Monday: 2 for 1 burgers & pizzas for Monday Night Football
Tuesday: Karaoke
Wednesday: Bingo Night at 9pm
Thursday: Ladies Night, $5 bottomless cup for the ladies - guest DJs weekly upstairs
Saturday: Guest DJs at bar
Sunday:
o Brunch: 10:30-2pm - $14.95 for any item off the menu & bottomless bloody marys, mimosas, or sangrias
o Game Time Specials: 50 cent wings & buffalo shrimp, $3 Sierra Nevada & Blue Moon draughts
o 9pm-2am Industry Night: Drink specials all night for everyone in service industry with Guest DJs and Karaoke at the bar  

Sure, Hollywoods Burger Bistro is creative and interesting enough to draw people in initially, but I think people will quickly realize that you don't always need to order something wacky to get a good meal - everything, even the simplest of things just taste good.  So go there for the Nicole Kidman, but come back again and again for a juicy regular burger on a pretzel roll! So in one big conclusion - would I go here again?  Absolutely.

A big thanks to Dara for all her great pictures!

DISCLAIMER: Though this was a free tasting, I was not asked to write a positive review nor did I feel any inclination to write anything which did not reflect my true opinion of Hollywoods Burger Bistro.

Monday Pasta Nights at Pazza Luna Trattoria

 

Did you hear about Pasta Night at Pazza Luna Trattoria?  Well, every Monday evening from 5:30pm and on, they are offering each table 3 bowls of pastas with house made sauces (vegetarian, meat and seafood) and a salad bowl.  This is just $15 for adults and $8 for children (12 years or younger).  They also offer a good selection of wines for $20/bottle.  Oh and the best part?  Free refills on the pasta and salad :) But of course, if you want something extra, they are offering an appetizer menu to choose a la carte.

YUM!

Have you ever been to Pazza Luna?  I’ve heard really yummy things about their food.  I have to make it down sometime!

Pazza Luna Trattoria Italiano

1401 E. Clement Street

Baltimore, MD 21230

410.962.1212 – reservations are suggested

FREE CHIK-FIL-A FOR A YEAR!!!!!!!!

Chik-Fil-A is opening up a new restaurant in Hunt Valley next week, and as is tradition, the first 100 people to show up will be given 1 free Chik-Fil-A meal every week for a YEARRRRRR. 

Follow these rules to ensure you will be the first 100!  At least camping out in Hunt Valley means being close to a Wegmans for sustenance :) :)  But basically the store opens on August 12th, so people can start arriving to wait outside the store on August 11th at 5:30am.  24 HOURS.  PEOPLE SERIOUSLY CAMP THIS LONG FOR FREE FOOD????  WOW.

Let me know if you go, or if you're considering it!!!!!!!!!!!!


New Chik-Fil-A
6 Hyland Ave
Hunt Valley, MD 21030

Icedgems Baking Cupcake Van - Driving to Happy Tummies Everywhere!

UPDATE 8/2010: I've tried a TON of flavors now, and without a doubt they are all amazing.  That being said, my absolute favorite is the Red Velvet Cupcake.  The cream cheese icing is just incredible.  I would seriously be happy if this van only carried Red Velvet Cupcakes to my house everyday.

There is a new food van in town - AND IT CARRIES CUPCAKES.  Delicious.  Amazing.  Cupcakes.

Icedgems Baking literally opened their van doors YESTERDAY and I managed to get some treats thanks to my lovely husband :)

And OH MY was I a happy camper.  These cupcakes ARE SPECTACULAR

Food Vans are a genius idea.  I love them. They have that wonderful element of surprise: you have to run out and get that treat because who knows when you will have it next!  And you can guarantee that I will be running out (or making Dan run out) to get some of these cupcakes whenever they are close by :)

Icedgems Baking Van carries 6 of their 17 flavors each day - and these cupcakes are made fresh DAILY.  I am not usually an icing fan - I'm one of those people who scrape away most of the icing and then just eat the cake - but not with these.   There's just something so creamy, sweet and light about the icing, and it pairs deliciously with the moist cake!

(Lemon Tang aka Lemon Tangmazingness)

Cupcakes I tried (yes.  I tried portions of them ALL.  I had a large mug of milk next to me!!!):
Vanilla Vanilla: Vanilla cake topped with buttercream flavored with pure Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla.  A great base cake.  The buttercream icing really shines here.
Chocolate Chocolate: Chocolate cake enriched with red cocoa and topped with Callebaut chocolate buttercream.  LOVED this.  There is something so great about the chocolate buttercream, and I love how this isn't overly sweet even though it's double chocolate!
Chocolate Vanilla: Chocolate cake from above and vanilla icing from above above :)  How can you go wrong with two greats?
Lemon Tang (pictured): Vanilla cake topped by a lemon infused buttercream with lemon zest.  I loooooove citrusy desserts, so this was right up my alley and I just adored it.  The lemon is a perfect compliment with the creamy icing.
Rocky Road: Chocolate cake filled with chunks of pecan, callebaut chocolate and marshallows and topped with buttercream blended with marshamallows.  You will love this one.  Trust me.  The chunks of chocolate in the cake was such a great surprise and the marshmallowy buttercream icing was a treat.

Can't wait to try more!  In fact, today they will offer their Red Velvet cupcake, so Dan has already been instructed to pick one out for me :)

I also tried their Million Dollar Shortbread (or Millionaire Shortbread?) which is a thick layer of shortbread, with a layer of caramel and a layer of hardened chocolate.  This is just plain decadent.  It's rich, crumbly and out-of-this-world!  It reminded me of a fancier version of that Christmas treat people make with the saltines, sugar, butter and chocolate.  A much much fancier version :)  As of yesterday they weren't selling these, according to Dan, but I sincerely hope they do!!!!

Pricing:
$2.50 - single cupcake
$12.50 - boxed half dozen
$24 - boxed dozen
ALSO, with a minimum order of 2 dozen cupcakes, they offer free delivery to your door within 20 miles of Reisterstown, MD!!!!!  Imagine the convenience of this when hosting parties or for baby showers and bridal showers etc.!

Contact:
443-690-7056
icedgemsbaking@gmail.com
www.icedgemsbaking.com
Become a fan of them on Facebook, and learn where they will be each day

Where are they today?  You can find them at 375 Padonia Road (corner of Padonia and Deereco Road) in Timonium between 10AM-2PM.  Let me know what you think if you go!





Legal Disclaimer: While getting a second helping of cupcakes yesterday for me to try, Dan told the owner that I wrote this blog so she very graciously gave us 6 cupcakes at a discounted rate and threw in the shortbread for free!  

UNION JACK'S IN COLUMBIA???

According to HowChow, a Union Jack's Pub is opening in Columbia next week.

UM, I'm SO EXCITED RIGHT NOW.

I've never been to the Union Jack in Bethesda, but I don't care! I'm obsessed with anything British (does that mean I'm obsessed with myself? I don't know how that works), so that automatically means I will love this place with all my heart.

Please someone let me know what Union Jack's is like and whether there is enough British stuff in the place to tame my excited heart.

THANKS

Milan, Little Italy

Remember I told you about Milan, the new and swanky Italian/Mediterranean Little Italy restaurant? Well they generously invited me to taste their culinary delights, and I happily obliged.

Milan is just gorgeous inside, just so so beautiful! The chandeliers, the white + red decor, the candlelight, even the bathroom sink! In fact, I see Milan as a wonderful place for a nice date, a special anniversary, a client dinner, a restaurant for out-of-town guests, and if you see their upstairs, you may even consider it for your Rehearsal Dinner it's so lovely!!!! Not to mention it's located conveniently next to a garage where you can pay $3 for parking on the weekdays after 4pm!

Mango Mojito

While I perused the extensive menu, I ordered a Mango Mojito ($11) to start, as I was told it was a popular drink at the restaurant. I can see why. Made with Ten Cane Rum, fresh mint, lime, mango, simple syrup, mango puree and club soda, it was refreshing and surprisingly light, though not strong. This, however, would be the perfect drink for the summertime when Milan opens up their outside patio (right now it's enclosed with a ton of heat lamps).

Meanwhile, my mum ordered a glass of the Mionetto Prosecco Brut ($10). I love prosecco (Italian sparkling wine) and usually buy a bottle of this instead of Champagne if I'm in the mood for some bubbles, and this particular kind was quite lovely.

They then presented us with their bread basket which comes with some tapenade instead of the usual olive oil (though they did ask whether we wanted that instead, which is smart since not everybody likes olives). My mum and I love tapenade, so we thought it was a great accompaniment.

Aragosta E Gamberetti Rotolo (Spring Roll with Lobster and Shrimp)

Since the sushi chefs are currently revamping their sushi menu, I wanted to choose an item that was going to definitely stay. My server, Stephen (who was a gem!), recommended the Aragosta E Gamberetti Rotolo ($16), explaining that it was more like a Spring Roll than sushi. This roll, made with rice paper, came with lobster, shrimp, mixed greens, crunchy vegetables, and scallions with a spicy remoulade sauce and sriracha decorating the plate. The sauce definitely has quite a kick to it, which complemented the crisply fresh taste of the roll's ingredients.

Agnello (Lamb Lollipops)

We also chose the Agnello ($13) or grilled lamp "lollipops" off their small plates section. These lamp chops were some of the best I've ever had, and I loved the dollop of lemon rosemary aioli. We ordered them medium, and they were cooked to perfection. I couldn't have been happier with this plate, and would highly recommend it if you like lamb. I would order this again in a heartbeat.

I had also ordered the Aragosta Pasta E Caci ($12) or Lobster Mac and Cheese, but my server actually forgot about that, and so did I until we left! Sadly I was looking forward to that - the pasta with smoked gouda bechemel, white truffle essence and a citrus pistachio gremolata. Doesn't that sound fabulous? I am really sad we missed this, though my stomach probably thanks me for it. Of course this wasn't a big deal to me since I was not paying for the meal - but had this happened to me another time I wouldn't have been so forgiving.

Spigola del Cile (Chilean Sea Bass)

For my entree, I eagerly ordered the Spigola del Cile ($28), their Chilean Sea Bass served with roasted fingerling potatoes, sauteed spinach and a watercress cream. Chilean Sea Bass, a buttery white fish, is such a special occasion fish, especially at the price it is, so it was nice to be served a large portion of it. And then to accompany it with perfectly cooked potatoes and a wonderful sauce? Oh, it was almost too much!!! I LOVED this dish and would absolutely want to get it again, or at least make sure someone else at the table ordered it so I could share *cough Dan cough*

Linguine Peppa (Peppered Linguine with Shrimp and Lobster)

My mum ordered the Linguine Peppa ($26) for her entree, which was also Stephen's recommendation. It came with shrimp, lobster, spinach, and leeks in a brandied cream sauce. This meal was a decadent entree, with lumps of lobster and large shrimp. The creamy sauce was rich and slightly sweet, and the homemade linguine was delicious. In fact, it was nice to hear that they make their pasta everyday on-site at 1pm! Yay for freshly made pasta!

Torta Di Fromaggio (Ricotta Cheesecake)

At this point in the meal, my mum and I were definitely not hungry, but we noticed we weren't grossly full. I think this is a testament to the quality of the food. We ate a lot, but it didn't sit heavily in our stomachs. We felt good! In fact, we felt good enough to share two desserts:)

We ordered the Grand Marnier Creme Brulee (not pictured, $8) and the Torta di Formaggio ($8). Under the crispy burnt sugar, the creme brulee's custard was silky smooth and had a wonderfully pleasing taste, though I did not taste the Grand Marnier. I definitely wasn't disappointed, but surprised there was more of a vanilla than orange taste.

The ricotta cheesecake came with a balsamic strawberry compote and candied rosemary, though that was just for show. The cheesecake was superb! Cheesecakes are usually not my favorite kind of dessert - they are too thick and too sweet for my taste, but the ricotta really lightens this dessert. The crust is delicious too, and I loved the balsamic strawberries with everything. Both of these were EXCELLENT, and I'm not sure whether I could pick a favorite. I'm so glad my mum likes to share!

All in all, this was a GREAT meal and I was really impressed with the food and with the restaurant itself. My mum also really loved it, especially the initimate lounge-y ambience. Milan is definitely unique to Baltimore, and I think that's a smart move as a new restaurant in this economy. That being said, I'm not going to pretend that it isn't expensive, because it is. However, if you can restrain yourself, it doesn't have to be just a special occasion spot! You could always get some sushi and dessert for a nice meal (in fact, there is a seating area specifically for those interested in sushi) or order small plates and their flatbread. Or you could just treat yourself to an amazing entree (CHILEAN SEA BASS!) and sip only on water! Whatever you end up choosing, I think you will be happy!

So, have you gone to Milan, the restaurant? Looking forward to go? Let me know in the comments!

DISCLAIMER: Though this was a free tasting, I was not asked to write a positive review nor did I feel any inclination to write anything which did not reflect my true opinion of Milan.

NEW RESTAURANT ALERT: Milan, Eastern Avenue

Milan, located on the edge of Harbor East and Little Italy, offers a new take on Italian cuisine, including a new combination - Italian Sushi!

It’s opening on January 15 and will be open 7 days a week from 5-10 pm with extended bar and late dining hours until 1 am. They also have a coffee and wine bar which is open 7 days a week from 11 am-2 am. And of course, they offer a happy hour, 7 days a week from 5-7 pm.

Here are some menu items that were sent to me. My comments are in red italics.

APPETIZERS

• Aragosta Pasta e Caci, lobster mac and cheese with chiocciole pasta, smoked gouda béchamel, white truffle essence, and citus pistacio gremolata ($12) Fancy mac and cheese? Always a crowd pleaser!
• Caprese di Fungi, portabella mushroom, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, fresh basil and an imported balsamic reduction ($7).
• Salmone Affumicato Bruschetta with fresh dill, capers, house smoked salmon and chive crème friache ($8)
• Pepe Rosso Buschetta with fresh mozzarella, roasted red pepper, fresh oregano and a balsamic reduction ($6).
• Margherita Flatbread with fresh oregano, tomato confit, fresh mozzarella and basil ($8)
• Maryland Granchi Flatbread, jumbo lump crab, roasted garlic, sautéed spinach, grape tomatoes and shaved parmigiano-reggiano ($14).

ITALIAN SUSHI! Italian sushi! What a crazy combination! Crazy enough though that it sounds intriguing!

• The selection of Crudo are served with either three ($9) or six ($17) varieties of fresh fish and include: Salmon with lemon caper aioli; Hiramasa with a blood orange balsamic glaze, yum I love blood oranges!; Arctic Char with a basil pesto; Hamachi with roasted red pepper puree; Yellowfin Tuna with red pepper oil and sea salt; and White Tuna with lemon oil and pine nuts.
• Uva Fogliame Con Salmone, seared salmon, fresh mozzarella, sautéed mushrooms, sundried tomato, grape leaves and lemon caper aioli ($12)
• Milan Rotolo, Avocado, sun dried tomato, fried calamari, nori, seasoned rice, white tuna, yellowfin tuna, basil pesto, and blood orange balsamic glaze ($18). Sign me up for this one!!!!

PASTA AND DINNER SELECTIONS

• Ravioli Deconstruito, cold water lobster, jumbo lump crab, shrimp, house made pasta, swiss chard, and pink peppercorn cream sauce ($28). How wonderful, yes I would like you
• Risotto Capasanta, seared scallops, wild mushrooms, fire roasted corn and white truffle essence ($22) Oh delightful! I would love you as well!
• Vitello, 14 oz. veal porterhouse with a wild mushroom risotto cake and smoked tomato demi glace ($38)
• Bistecca Con L’Osso, 20 oz. dry rubbed USDA Choice bone-in ribeye with Yukon gold mash and melted leeks ($42). mmmm there's something so comforting about melted leeks

HOUSE MADE DESSERTS – I want to try ALL of these. I hate turning down house made desserts!!!!! I'm a big sucker for creme brulee's though, so that would probably be my first choice

• Torta di Formaggio, honey ricotta cheesecake with a balsamic strawberry compote and candied rosemary ($8)
• Milan’s Tiramisu ($8)
• Grand Marnier Crème Brulee ($8)
• Piatoo di Fromaggio, a selection of Italian cheese ($12)

SPECIALTY COCKTAILS

• Dolce & Gabbana, Godiva Milk Chocolate Liqueur, Stoli Raz Vodka, a splash of club soda and fresh raspberries ($11)
• Gucci Envy, Absolute Apple Vodka, Sour Apple Liquor, and a splash of Midori and pineapple juice ($10).
• Passion of Milan, Captain Morgan Passion Fruit, fresh brewed iced-tea, and a splash of lime juice ($8) I love passion fruit, this sounds like a lovely drink
• Variety of flavorful mojitos ($10-12). ooooooh, i'm a big mojito fan, especially lots of flavors!

Overall, this restaurant’s menu shows that it’s trying to step outside of the box with regular Italian cuisine. I think that’s a smart move in opening a new place. I wish it the best of luck in its opening!

1002 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21202-4326

410-685-6111

visit http://www.opentable.com/rest_profile.aspx?rid=36967 for reservations