Foodle

Influenced by @tacotrailofficial, I visited Dragon Casa yesterday. The birria xiao long bao are the star: dumplings filled with birria and broth! Loved the "dumpling fiesta" coated with dry rub seasoning, but wish that same seasoning had been used on the undersalted calamari pictured here. Dragon Casa keeps experimenting, so maybe they'll try that soon. Less

Who wore it better?

Inspired by the pork stuffed tofu at @moi.nola , we tried our hands at making dau hu don thit sot ca chua at home.

That’s the restaurant at left, home attempt at right and a few step-by-step looks.

This was fun and delicious and I’m very glad for the way this new restaurant is putting different dishes from the Vietnamese tradition in rotation here and I’ll leave the cooking to them again for the next round..

#wherenolaeats #igersneworleans #nolaeats #nolafoodie #nolafood #vietnamesefood #homecooking #newtome Less

@roganichongkong is a modern British restaurant in Hong Kong, but make no mistake: this isn’t where chefs find a 43rd way to make ‘three yellow chicken’ fancy, nor believe their tweezered rendition of ‘fish and chips’ is the one to rule them all. Roganic tethers loudly to terroir, and the way @rogan_simon foregrounds Hong Kong producers — through a British accent — feels apt and alive. In a city where British food can skew either too frumpy or precious, this matters.

Yes, there is three-yellow chicken, but the poultry cedes to the White Dragon corn, snappy with soaring notes of caramel; the glorious sauce made from all the fats and whole-hog trimmings; and the black garlic vinegar that cuts through the richness. At Roganic, byproducts are imbued throughout the meal. One may begin with scallop crackers (a play on salt and vinegar chips and reminiscent of a prawn cracker) made from the remnants of the crustacean, alongside cured ocean trout belly in a beetroot cigar. A mid-course may feature stuffed seabass over a silken cauliflower puree and a bright caper jam.

I remember the dishes by their intricate pairings — beetroot and slow cooked ox tongue is a challenging but ultimately appealing combination. And gratitude is due to Mr. Lin and his asparagus: crisp and uncloyingly sweet, encircling raw Hokkaido scallop under a disc of elderflower gel. Also terrific: a pre-dessert of aerated Kyoho grape, as bitter as it is fresh; and the frozen Yoshida cheese dessert, a playful reinvention of an oft-overlooked course.

There’s something for everyone, not only in texture and tenor (acidic, bitter, sweet) but also in temperature: frozen, cold, lukewarm, hot. At Roganic, find Causeway Bay bay ladies who lunch (well), exchanging gifts in Hermes shopping bags; couples bent over housemade oolong kombucha; and solo off-duty chefs along a communal table that snakes around two bulbous, undulating pillars. This is a transportive and trendy place to dine.

I tried Rogan’s food at his Claridges London outpost a decade ago. Much has changed since, including the elevation of L’Enclume to 3*, but I’m happy to report that there is polish beyond the pageantry at his HK outpost. Go. Less

Vitello Tonnato, the Piedmontese dish of cold, thinly-sliced veal buried in a heartstopping meld of mayonnaise and capers, does not always spark joy; too often you’ll find graying meat that recalls either an unyielding piece of hide or a spongey, suspiciously soft flap of vaguely-animal origin.

But Vitello Tonnato can be wonderful, as this mayo-averse food writer learned a month ago, at @lamobistrodelmaresg , in the new-ish Mett Hotel, Fort Canning. Here, it’s wide, rosy ribbons of clean, delicately brined veal with the tenacity of roast beef, draped like silk under a hail of capers and a heady, espuma-light sauce. A terrific dish.

You order it, among other staples, expecting a procession of safe, crowd-pleasers in the Estiatorio Milos vein (and price). L’Amo has them all: good whole-roasted fish; formidable pizzas, notably the Tartufo, or truffle; gently brined, steamed, then flash-fried octopus that surrenders under a handsome char. It makes a case for why this concept is infinitely franchisable. And while similarities to the Dubai flagship are clear, it’s rewarding to see @chefdanielesperindio put a few dishes in his own voice.

Yes, gone are the days (for now!) where you could have Sperindio’s 32-yolk taglioni in a stock fish infusion that made your head spin. But in its place, depending on the day: lobster tagliatelle in a sauce that reconciles richly-layered shellfish broth with an Italian-American tomato gravy, brightened with orange; or a braised beef ravioli gilded with butter and sage.

L’Amo arrives at a time when restaurateurs keep reinventing the wheel, often choosing vibe over virtue. For now, and until Sperindio’s flagship opens next door, in March, we have an unmistakably Italian meal that starts with the classics and may end with a house-churned, deliriously pistachio-forward gelato that stands among the best I’ve had in recent memory.

- Dec 23, 2025 Less

Discovering Dominic’s New York Pizza at Cumming City Center

Atlanta Grubbers, if you're looking for a better-than-average pizza experience with other options to boot, Dominic’s New York Pizza is worth a visit. Despite the name, this isn’t the New York style you might expect but rather a delightful Neapolitan. Originating from a humble food truck, Dominic’s has now found a more permanent home in Ball Ground and the latest at Cumming City Center, cooking up laudable offerings inside (though trailer kitchen is adjacent to) Crooked Culture Brewing.

Tasting the Menu
I ventured to try something beyond the usual pizza. The wood-fired gyro intrigued me, and while it was a substantial portion, the tzatziki sauce could have packed more of a punch. The pita was notably good, though. Dominic’s cheddar and jalapeño sausage stood out with its spicy kick, not as great as my BBQ faves, but with more kick. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s sourced from their Ball Ground neighbors Frankfurt Doner, where I’m a big fan of the namesake item as well as their house made sausages.

A Brewing Delight
Nestled inside one of metro Atlanta’s lesser-known but noteworthy breweries, the setting adds to the charm. While Dominic’s may not be a "drop everything and go" spot, there’s a reason for our repeat visits over the years at their other location and food truck, which I don’t think they do anymore. It appears it’s what they cook out of in Cumming. Their pizza has consistently been a hit, and Mrs. Grub enjoyed her pepperoni pizza.

Worth the Trip
Cumming City Center is steadily becoming a must-visit destination. With Dominic’s being located inside of the underrated Crooked Culture, it’s a spot I’ll return to for a burger or a meatball sandwich next time. Kudos to Cumming City Center for continuing to elevate the local dining scene.

#AtlantaEats #Pizzalovers #CummingCityCenter #NeapolitanPizza #FoodieAdventures #CrookedCultureBrewing Less

Review of Fat Lady Bakery in East Cobb, Marietta

Visited the humbly-located Fat Lady Bakery located on Johnson Ferry Road in East Cobb, Marietta, and here’s my take on the experience.

Limited Selection, Unforgettable Flavors
We were met with a sparse selection, we were told by @nancyfatladybaker due to staffing and supply issues, but what we tried was definitely memorable. If you’re on the hunt for sourdough bread recommendations, Fat Lady Bakery is the place to go. Their sourdough is a standout and pairs perfectly with their delicious pimento cheese, which has a subtle jalapeño kick. The dark meat chicken salad, with its delightful combination of walnuts and grapes, was another treat. Fat Lady has a light hand with mayo, but I added a slather to my sourdough bread and it made a good sandwich.

Suggestions for the Busy Crowd
I couldn’t help but wish for a menu catered to the busy work crowd, perhaps with more ready-to-go sandwich options. It’s possible they offer this when fully stocked, but the current menu didn’t make it clear.

More Tastes to Explore
The ground beef enchiladas were another highlight. I suspect the flour tortillas are made in-house, adding an authentic Texas-Mex touch to the dish with cheddar and pepper Jack cheeses layered beautifully. As for the sweets, the chocolate croissants and chocolate chip cookies were good, though not exceptional.

Looking Forward
I’m eager to return when they’re fully stocked to explore more offerings. Mrs. Grub was particularly hoping to try the chicken pot pie and pretzels, which hopefully will be available next time.

Final Thoughts
Fat Lady Bakery has the potential to be a grab-and-go favorite, and I look forward to seeing how my tour of the menu evolves. If you’re in the area, give them a try for some unique flavors and local charm.

#FatLadyBakery #EastCobbEats #SourdoughLove #LocalFlavors #HiddenGemsATL #BakeryFinds Less

Discovering Tipsy Thaiger: A Culinary Gem in Roswell

I finally made it to @tipsythaiger, nestled in the scenic Roswell Mill, just a stone's throw from Proper Hop. My anticipation was high, having experienced their impressive pop-up over a year ago at aforesaid Proper Hop.

Savory Delights
The Northern Laab Beef Tartare was a standout dish. The shaved beef, infused with a tantalizing mix of spices, was perfectly complemented by the crunchy heirloom tomato. This dish offered a delightful balance of flavors and textures that I won’t soon forget.

Signature Dish with a Twist
Under the guidance of superstar server Cecilia, who brings her experience from many of Roswell's top restaurants, I tried the She-Crab Fried Rice. This signature dish delivered an exceptional flavor profile with its blend of crab meat, crab fat, and salt-cured duck yolk. The Jasmine rice was fluffier than what traditional fried rice aficionados might expect, but it was a delicious twist that worked beautifully.

Delightful Drinks
Cecilia also recommended the Mango and Sticky Rice drink, featuring white rum and topped with salted coconut foam. The foam’s richness reminded me of the smooth texture of a White Russian, making it deceptively easy to enjoy. It's a must-try for those who appreciate a well-crafted cocktail. For those who prefer brown liquor, fear not—they have a well-stocked bar with a charming atmosphere perfect for a date night.

A Unique Thai Experience
For those who love Thai cuisine, be prepared for a menu that's smaller but filled with unique offerings you might not find at your usual spot. It's an experience worth exploring.

Final Thoughts
Tipsy Thaiger truly lives up to its name, offering tempting drinks and an inviting atmosphere. My advice? Consider getting an Uber, indulge in a few cocktails, and perhaps explore Patrick’s new lounge next door with its new whiskey collection to go with an impressive beer list afterward. Let's support this gem Tipsy (and PH too)—it's a place worth keeping in our vibrant culinary scene.

Hashtags: #TipsyThaiger #RoswellEats #FoodieFinds #ThaiCuisine #AtlantaEats #CulinaryAdventure #RestaurantReview #DateNightSpots Less

Review: Eddie V's in Alpharetta
Overview
Eddie V's, recently opened on Hayne Bridge in Alpharetta, presents itself as a contender in the high-end seafood and steak category. However, when comparing price and quality, there are superior alternatives available in the area.

Highlights

Mashed Potatoes
One standout dish was the mashed potatoes, which were expertly prepared and received high praise.

Lump Crab Cakes
The lump crab cakes offered a unique twist with most of the filling positioned outside, allowing for a crispy texture. While enjoyable, this dish doesn't quite match the excellence found at Brooklyn Café or Bask.

Comparative Analysis
When considering value, Eddie V's is slightly less expensive than upscale spots like Bask, Hal's, and Kaiser's. However, this comes with a compromise in quality. For a place that cheaper or about the same option, Message in Bottle surpasses Eddie V's in terms of overall dining experience.

Mrs. Grubber's Experience
Mrs. Grubber opted for the filet and complemented it with a Caesar salad. Both were well-received, with the salad's citrusy dressing offering a refreshing and distinctive flavor.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Eddie V's provides a decent experience but falls short when compared to some of Atlanta's other high-end dining establishments. If you're in the area, it might be worth a visit, but for exceptional quality, other venues may be more satisfying. Less

Fair and Balanced Take on 1920 Tavern in Roswell

Returning to @1920_tavern on Canton Street was a bit of a journey for us after a past incident with a waitress named Kat, who fallaciously and rather rudely accused my wife of ordering a seafood dish she would never touch. However, our love for the food outweighed that experience, and we decided to give it another shot, albeit with a long delay between visits. Time heals the wounds that no one can see.

Culinary Highlights
Despite the major waitstaff hiccup, the food at 1920 Tavern never fails to impress. The seafood gumbo, with its rich flavors and the excellent addition of ground grits, was a standout. If you're a fan of creamy dishes, the shrimp and lobster ravioli is a must-try—it's indulgent and satisfying. Although I didn't personally try the shrimp and grits, I'm betting it's just as good given the quality of this similar dish.

Southern Comfort
We also sampled some of Mrs. Grubber’s fried chicken, which was uniquely prepared—pounded in bone and topped with white Southern gravy. It was a delightful twist on a classic dish. My wife opted for the tavern salad over the Caesar, and we both agreed that the "secret" housemade vinaigrette was exceptional—truly some of the best dressing we've tasted.

Overall Impressions
While I can't recall every dish we've tried in the past, each visit has left us satisfied—food wise. 1920 Tavern does very well in delivering American staples with a slight Cajun influence. Most of the time, the service has been commendable, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience.

Have you been to 1920 Tavern? Share your thoughts! Would love to hear about your favorite dishes and experiences.

#AtlantaEats #FoodReview #1920Tavern #SouthernCuisine #SeafoodLover #GoodEats #HonestReview #AtlantaFoodies #CajunFlavors #DiningOut Less

The Famous Mediterranean Spot The Kebab Shop is in Sugar Land, Houston, and I’m so excited! I usually visit their downtown San Diego location during Comic‑Con, so now I don’t have to wait until July every year to get my fix.

San Diego locals know why it’s so good, voted Best Fries, Best Customer Satisfaction, and Best of San Diego 8 years in a row. From juicy kebabs and doner style proteins to customizable bowls, wraps, and signature sauces, it’s quick, flavorful, and totally crave‑worthy. I personally can’t get enough of their wraps!

Signature & Build Your Own Wraps, Bowls & Plates
• Proteins: Carved Chicken Döner, Carved Lamb Beef Döner, Grilled Chicken, Beef Kofta, Grilled Steak, Falafel
• Sides & Salads: Kebab Fries, Crave Fries, Greek Salad, Chickpea Salad, Tabouli, Grilled Veggies, Hummus, Baklava
• Sauces: O.G. Yogurt, Dill Yogurt, Cilantro Jalapeño, Fire Chili
• Other: Halal Options & Catering Available

New School Mediterranean Made Your Way!
Open Monday – Sunday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
📍: @tks_thekebabshop 13607 University Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77479

#houstonrestaurants #houstonfood #houstonblogger #halal #halalfood Less