Adventure Palm Beach: Buccan, a Go-To Destination

Any town populated with tourists in high season is usually not a destination for foodies. Restaurants experiencing high traffic in touristy vacation spots are infamous for lackluster food, second-rate service, over-priced run-of-the-mill drinks, and the typical chicken-finger kids' menu. On a recent vacation to Palm Beach, I was proven wrong.

Palm Beach has beautiful-old buildings, great weather, and an ocean view that is unmistakably gorgeous. It is also filled with wandering tourists, snowbirds, and mediocre restaurants. After a few abysmal dinners, I started to worry if we would have to settle for pizza every night. That was until my sister spotted a Tweet by foodie and author Michael Ruhlman, who was happening to visit Palm Beach at the exact same time. His suggestion? Buccan. With his recommendation in hand, I immediately made a reservation for my husband, my two young boys, and me. Buccan was so outstanding, we ended up going twice.

Buccan is not a family restaurant but if you go early, children are welcome. In fact, the food, our service, and the treatment of our four year old were unbelievable. The menu is comprised of mostly small plates that are approachable and utterly delectable in every way. The brick chicken served with Parmesan fries in a small, aluminum pot is delish. My son had it on both of our visits—the juices from the chicken were so amazing that I managed to get him to eat arugula if he dipped the leaves in the sauce.

Everything we had at Buccan including a spicy conch and octopus ceviche, beet salad, spring pea risotto, a squid ink orecchiette with house made sausage and conch, and a bacon-wrapped tuna were delicious. The Hamachi on a crispy lotus salad with spicy chilies, steak tartare with a crispy egg yolk, and a three-inch grilled swordfish steak are eats that I think about in the middle of the night. Because it was the best tartare of my life, my brain is still trying to determine how to recreate a crispy egg yolk. Desserts and cocktails were equally yummy and the wine list selection, both glass and bottle, were lovely. If you ever make it to Palm Beach, Buccan is a go-to destination. I would actually visit Palm Beach again, if only to dine there. Details: http://www.buccanpalmbeach.com/

Adventure Chicago: Big Star, a Little Bit Country, a Little Bit Rock 'n' Roll

Big Star is Paul Kahan’s latest creation and his first attempt at “fast food.” A blending of a Taqueria with the spirit of Honky Tonk and topped off with a dash of hip, Big Star offers a rough-sleek decor, more-ish eats, and an incredible beer list, to boot. To make it more enticing, it’s cheap. We all know that cheap and good are not always synonymous, but, in this case, they are and it's damn-near perfect.

I believe between the two Mod City Moms, we've tried everything on the concise, but wonderful menu including the elusive, Sonarian Hot Dog—a dog wrapped in bacon and smothered in onions, pinto beans, and hot sauce (my nephew swears by it). Our personal favorites include the Tacos De Rajas De Poblano (roasted Poblano peppers and cheese taco), Frijoles Charros (pinto beans stewed in bacon and served with tortillas), and a spicy pork shoulder soup that is to die for. I'm asking for it on my last meal on earth.

Most items cost less than five dollars and the beer list, comprised mostly of local and Southern California micro brews, is outstanding. Don't miss Stone IPA or, better yet, a Port-Brewing selection, priced at a mere four bucks and, if you're into bloody beer, try the house version—the Michilada made with salsa, lime, and Tecate—yum!

Crowds can be a bit rambunctious on the weekends for families, but lunch is mostly local hipsters and folks who work in the neighborhood—perfect for the kiddies. Big Star is cash only and very busy on evenings—best to go early if you want a seat. Details: www.bigstarchicago.com

Adventure Philadelphia: Villa Di Roma, Kickin' It Ol' Style

In recent years, Philly has grown up—streets bustling with cozy cafés, funky shops, gastro pubs, and galleries. Since I haven't lived in the vicinity for a few years, it was fun to soak in the next-generation haunts. These new businesses are sprinkled throughout many-a-neighborhood, but it's important to note that Philly's somewhat gritty charm still lurks around every corner.

South Philly's Italian Market is unsurpassed for rewinding the present and Villa Di Roma remains the best restaurant to showcase Philadelphia, old school Italian-style. From the crass yet lovable waitresses to the would-be Wiseguys sharing an order of "Meatballs and Gravy," the Villa Di Roma offers a wide assortment of American Italian classics, deep glasses of house wine, and a changeable menu boards posted on the wall.

Family-owned and operated, the extended family takes part in each piece of the business, including bartending, waiting tables, and most importantly, the kitchen. The fresh meats and veggies that are featured in their dishes are purchased from the local market, seven days a week. Whether you’re in the mood for fettuccini ricotta, eggplant parm, or a homemade pasta, make sure to order Uncle Sammy De Luca's famous meatballs. These meatballs are simply THE BEST MEATBALLS we have ever tasted. Pan-fried lovingly each morning, these little balls of goodness hold in their flavor and natural juices, smooth and succulantly tender. Just like their meatball recipe, the Villa Di Roma's offerings, patrons, and staff stand as true mid-century beacons, untouched, unhindered, and uncomplicated by time. Details: (215) 592-1295, 936 S 9th St., Philadelphia, PA

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Adventure LA: Street Sense

Long before Susan Feniger was a Top Chef Master, we've been following her tip-top cuisine for years. Although I’ve always had a wonderful experience eating a Feniger-inspired meal, her latest venture, Street, has managed to become my favorite culinary haunt of them all. At Street, Feniger has created a menu that elevates street food from around the world. The playful, graffiti-adorned walls; the mischievously assorted drink menu; and the eclectic food offerings make us continually come back for more. No matter what your mood, Street offers tasty plates that highlight the diversity of flavors that span our globe.

We've tried almost everything on the menu—from Argentine's sheep milk ricotta to Blue Ridge chicken and dumplings, but our sure favorite every time is the famous Kaya Toast: A Singapore specialty that combines house-made coconut jam, a fried egg, golden toasted bread, and a kiss of soy. Although the Kaya Toast may not jump out on a menu surrounded by so many inviting dishes, it will leave you dreaming about your next visit to LA. Bookend your meal with a creative cocktail or an out-of-the-ordinary brew and a street-wise desert, and you'll find that you've experienced the perfect trio. Whether your party's in the mood for Brazilian, Japanese, Indian, or the Bayou, there’s always something on the menu that's guaranteed to please just about everyone who sits at Street’s table. Details: www.eatatstreet.com

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Adventure Chicago: Food and Heart Collide at Urban Belly

It's not often that you find a restaurant without a “fast food” label that's easy on your wallet, delicious, and gourmet. Sure, cheap, yummy eats lurk around every corner in an urban sprawl, but "complex" is an adjective not normally used to describe fast food. On the opposite spectrum, most fine dining experiences that dole out the latest in haute cuisine are not approachable for more than one reason. Chicago’s Urban Belly, however, rises to the challenge, seamlessly melding together the intricate and complex with the affordable and honest—a task that is not easy, to be sure.

Nestled in an easy-to-overlook, kind-of-dingy strip mall on Western Avenue, Urban Belly is a welcome surprise, even in a city that has some version of Asian fare located on every block. Owned by chef Bill Kim (who recently opened the much anticipated Latin-Asian Belly Shack), Urban Belly’s philosophy is communal dining + good eats = a full stomach and content heart. There is no denying that Kim not only accomplishes this, but makes it seem effortless.

Don’t let the unwelcoming façade fool you—once inside, the environment is incredibly inviting. The dining space is small, minimalist, and warm. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and gracious. Urban Belly serves up comfort food Asian style—homemade dumplings, noodle dishes, soups, and sides.

Start with any of the house-made dumplings in unusual combinations such as lamb and brandy or squash and bacon. The dumpling dough has a homemade quality that I have not experienced from a traditional pot sticker. The main entrees, which are noodle-based, are all under twelve dollars and enough for two to share if you also order a starter. They come in a large bowl filled with broth or sauce combined with a variety of interesting, fresh ingredients. The wheat soba noodles with bay scallops and oyster mushrooms in a Thai basil broth were really terrific, but the Asian Bolognese special was the show-stopper of the evening: Thick, udon noodles served with mouth watering salty ham, black bean puree, and cilantro, combined perfectly with heat and Asian spices. It was simply to die for. All dishes are made to order—patrons order from the counter and are served at a communal table. Bring your own wine or beer, as Urban Belly is B.Y.O.B.—that beats the over-priced mediocre cocktail any day.

The cuisine at Urban Belly is the perfect balance of complex flavors meets the approachable and the room itself is modern and relaxed. Next time you are in Chicago, be sure to check it out—your stomach and your soul are sure to be fed. Details: www.urbanbellychicago.com

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Adventure Rome: More Than Its Icons

It’s easy to envision the long-list of Rome’s famed landmarks and when these sites are seen in person, they magically surpass their reputation. But, extraordinarily enough, Rome's real treasures are found in its neighborhoods. Laced together are more than a dozen unique quarters, each boasting their own stories, style, and gastronomic specialties. Over the year, we’ll highlight some of our favorites, but today we focus on Monti, located just north of the Colosseum.

The main drag, Via del Boschetto, combines antique shops and time-tested restaurants with hip wine bars and trendy boutiques. Historically known as the seedy part of town, this quarter is now one of Rome’s most desirable neighborhoods. Whether you’re searching for a new skate deck, a hand-crafted jacket, or a place to simply rest your feet between escapades, Monti is sure to please.

AireLab, Via del Boschetto 123
Walking down the street, the dangling chicken bag-bins were the first of the many quirky items to catch my eye. Once inside, this mother and son venture offers a number of pop-culture knick-knacks and funky accessories, including Chairman Mao bottle openers, vintage cloth sleeping masks, and handmade felt necklaces.

Fabio Picconi, Via del Boschetto 148
Filled to the brim with costume jewelry, it’s difficult to maneuver your way through the store, but the vintage, Italian brooches, glittery rings, and rhinestone pins make it a fun place to stay and play.

Le Gallinelle, Via del Boschetto 76
This old neighborhood meat market has been seamlessly transformed into a funky boutique. From the old meat hooks now hang one-of-a-kind creations made from second-hand clothing and world-wide materials. Peppered throughout the store are a number of vintage designer accessories, making Le Gallinelle the perfect destination for fashionistas on a limited budget.

Libreria Caffe Bohèmien, Via degli Zingari 36
Whether you’re craving a glass of wine, an espresso, or a good book, Libreria Caffe Bohemien offers it all. Cozy rooms lined with bookshelves, records, and artwork offer an inviting way to catch your breath, replenish, and map your next Roman excursion.

Valentino, Via del Boschetto 37
Don’t look too hard for the restaurant name: You won’t find it. In its place sits the original 1930’s sign reminding us of its beer parlor past. Today, however, Valentino is one of Rome’s most honest and comfortable trattorias. The checker tiled floor; heavy, dark wood work; low ceilings; and crisp, white table cloths offer a hint of the warm and comforting food that awaits. The specialty of this family-run establishment is their grilled meats and cheeses. Try scamorza, a smoked, tan, and bubbly melted cheese with the toppings of your choice (from Parma ham to mushrooms) or their ground beef grilled to perfection and topped with salty prosciutto and warm cheese. Accompany your meal with a carafe of their house-wine or a chilled beer from the tap.

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Adventure LA: Down Home Comfort at Baby Blues BBQ

Recently, my sons and I had some unexpected time to kill around LAX. Since we weren’t in the mood to browse the pawn ships, peruse the triple-xxx stores, or dare to actually eat at a Jack in the Box, we decided to take a short jaunt north to Venice. Because my schedule is usually ruled by my boys’ stomachs, our little escapade was cut shorter than expected. Instead of finding our final destination, we made a quick stop at Baby Blues BBQ, an unassuming little dive on the corner of Lincoln and Rose.

I’ll be the first to admit that the idea of barbecue in LA seems a bit of an oxymoron and stopping at an untried restaurant in an unknown territory seems a bit of a gamble. But from the first moment we caught a whiff of those roasted meats, Baby Blues, coyly sitting amongst the tattoo parlors and chopper shops, seemed like the perfect stop to satisfy our hunger.

Between the three of us, we were able to try the ribs, beef brisket, and pulled pork, all of which were lathered into a tenderly succulent perfection. These meaty main events were accompanied by a variety of house-made barbecue sauces (XXX or sweet); over a dozen sides (ranging from mac n’ cheese to creamed spinach); a cheap, ice-cold beer selection (including a bucket o’ PBRs); and homemade desserts (banana pudding, anyone?). Although the three of us didn’t storm in on a Harley or sport any tat sleeves, Baby Blues and their more-than-comforting food made us feel satisfyingly right at home. Details: www.babybluesvenice.com.

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Adventure San Francisco: Jukebox Breakfast

To stop and behold a classic diner is one of life’s little magical moments—chrome-laced linoleum counter-tops, tile floors, and an antique jukebox in the corner that still works! As rare as these encounters are, it’s even more unusual to find a meal that’s truly worthy to be served in one of these exceptional beauties. One of Berkeley’s crowned culinary jewels, Bette’s Oceanview Diner, offers both an ambiance evocative of the past and home-cooked fare that leaves you dreaming about re-visiting in the future.

Alongside a strong, steamy cup of joe, get your day started with a set of perfectly poached eggs on top of a bed of some of the best corned beef hash I’ve ever had. Perhaps you’re more in the mood for the rarely-seen-anywhere-but-Pennsylvania scrapple or, for the less adventurous, a stack of buttery flapjacks.

Not much of a breakfast person? Belly up to the counter and order a malt or draught beer to accompany your pan-fried fish fillet sandwich or your homemade meatloaf plate. Whatever your preference, put a quarter in that jukebox. As Etta James belts out her seminal classic, I’d Rather Go Blind, sit back, take a deep sip of your drink, and truly appreciate a culinary moment that’s reminiscent of a bygone era. Details: 1807 Fourth Street, Berkeley, CA, 510.644.3230, www.worldpantry.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce/ExecMacro/bettes/dinerinfo.d2w/report.

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Adventure Chicago: A Diamond in the Rough, Lula Café

When you visit a large city like Chicago, there are many decisions to be made when it comes to dining. The choices are endless—ethnicity, food-style, location, and price. Sometimes it's difficult, if not totally overwhelming, to weed through the thousands of options, forcing many visitors to stick to the downtown area, which is more familiar.

In my travels, I have found the most noteworthy restaurants are the ones where the locals dine. Usually the place where the resident foodies gravitate to repeatedly are the restaurants not just worth trying, but the ones that stand out in your mind for years to come. They may be slightly off the beaten path, but truly worth the effort in the end.

Lula Café is one of those places. It is located in a storefront in a transitional neighborhood called Logan Square. Driving by, you probably wouldn't even blink an eye. Once inside, however, you are instantly filled with warmth, even on the most blustery winter evening. And, if the atmosphere doesn’t do it for you, the strong, delicious cocktails will.

The waiting area is small and dimly lit with little votives placed randomly along a dark wood, vintage bar. It is incredibly inviting from the moment you set foot into the restaurant. The drink list consists of wine, beer, and cocktails. Their signature cocktails includes house-made sangria and margaritas. They also offer “old school” cocktails including Sidecars and Manhattans. Their signature Sidecar is a drink not to be missed—the perfect blend of sweet, sour, and smooth…delicious.

Like the restaurant space itself, the menu at Lula Café is small—using only seasonal organic produce and local fish, meats, and poultry. The menu changes daily or weekly in order to deliver customers the freshest meats and produce available. We ordered a chestnut risotto appetizer with turnips followed by a beet salad with blue cheese and warm wilted greens. The risotto was perfectly cooked and the flavor combinations were incredibly savory. The cold beet salad with warm mesclun greens and subtle blue cheese was perfect. The scene stealer of the evening was the pork belly entrée—pan seared and almost crispy on the outside with exceptionally tender, perfectly cooked meat inside that melted in my mouth.

Lula Café offers breakfast, brunch on weekends, and dinner daily and the prices are extremely reasonable. The service is friendly, the atmosphere is just right, and the food is near flawless in its execution. Lula Café is truly a diamond in the rough—a Chicago jewel not to be missed. Details: www.lulacafe.com.

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Adventure LA: The Oinkster Makes Piggies of Us All

Originally, the purpose of our Adventure food reviews was to showcase restaurants that satisfied the adult palate, but didn’t reject the company of our children. However, being a self-confessed junk food junkie of the regional-sort, I’m always on the lookout for a city’s local culinary speciality. Although not our original intent, cheap, regional cuisine often reigns supreme when trying to please the whole family.

This being said, Los Angeles offers the first entry of this sort—the hometown pastrami sandwich. And, quite frankly, it’s not just any pastrami sandwich—it’s a fantasy-feast. It’s the type of meal that you dream about for weeks after you leave and it actually makes you wonder if you should, in fact, buy real estate in the area.

As chef André Guerrero’s motto promises, The Oinkster offers “slow fast food.” This is a sandwich that comes out almost as quickly as you order it, but is made with oh-so-much love. The Oinkster pastrami delivers two-week cured meat, Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, and red cabbage slaw on a succulently butter-laden roll. Accompany that bad boy with crispy Belgian fries and one of the many homemade sauces, including chipotle ketchup, roasted garlic aioli, and ancho-lime mayo! The slow roasted and smoked BBQ Pulled Pork slathered in North Carolina BBQ sauce isn’t a bad bet either.

Located in LA’s Eagle Rock neighborhood, The Oinkster is housed in a wonderfully kitschy 50s A-frame. Inside, the diner offers comfy red naugahyde booths and, outside, sit amongst the hipsters in their horsetail-adorned patio. While your kids suck down their Oinksterade, a house-concocted orange lemonade, you can sip on a pitcher of cold, draught beer. And, if you want to soak up the atmosphere a little longer, top your meal off with a slice of homemade banana cream pie or a PB&J cupcake for dessert. Details: 2005 Colorado Boulevard, Los Angles, CA, 323.255.oink, www.theoinkster.com.

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Adventure Napa: Don’t Balk—Take Your Kids to Napa

Many of us have visited Napa for a romantic get-away, or, at least, have short-listed it as an enviable retreat. After dreaming about vacationing in the northern California countryside for, oh, about 20 years or so, my husband and I were lucky enough to finally visit. For our 18th anniversary, my in-laws volunteered to stay with our sons for a gloriously long weekend.

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our time away. Napa, after all, is an adult’s playground—the best restaurants run by some of the world’s top chefs, rich wines and cheeses at every stop, and quaint and charming bed and breakfasts on each corner. For an entire weekend we were not limited to bedtimes, child-friendly fare, or frequent visits to the bathroom—an enormous gift for any weary-eyed parent. It was during this trip, however, that Napa not only exceeded our romantic expectations, but opened our eyes to just how much our sons would enjoy a trip to Napa, too.

Round Pond: Round Pond not only makes wine, but also grows olives. Lucky for us, the proprietors of Round Pond have built their very own olive oil stone and hammer mills. If you are premeditated in your planning, you can actually experience the harvesting and pressing of the olives that occurs some time in the fall. But, during any season, visitors can call ahead to tour the mill and taste Round Pond’s bounty.

Learn to recognize the difference between Italian, Spanish, Meyer Lemon, and Blood Orange olive oils. Some are smooth and buttery, others are hearty and full-bodied, but all are delicious when served with crusty breads, grassy or earthy cheeses, and fresh, organic produce—some directly picked from their very own vineyards. Details: 886 Rutherford Rd., Rutherford, California, www.roundpond.com.

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park: This Napa State Park offers ten miles of hiking trails and is home to coyotes, bobcats, fox, deer, and over 100 types of birds. Grab a snack or lunch from Dean & Deluca or the Oakville Grocery, and spend the afternoon meandering the picturesque countryside. Details: 3801 St. Helena Highway, North Calistoga, California, www.napanet.net/~bothe; Dean & Deluca, 607 S. Highway 29, St. Helena, California, www.deandeluca.com; Oakville Grocery, 7856 Highway 29, Oakville, California, www.oakvillegrocery.com.

Quixote Winery: This winery organically farms from a small, family vineyard and, as a result, produces a limited quantity of red wine (really yummy Petite Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon). But, what this winery does on a large-scale, is the design of their home-base. Friedensreich Hundertwasser, artist, philosopher, architect, and all-around eccentric, designed Quioxte Winery as his last project. If you’ve never been fortunate enough to tour a Hundertwasser wonder, stop by the Quioxte Winery or call ahead for a tour.

In Hundertwasser designs, there are no straight lines—even the floors are often sloped. Roofs are adorned with trees and grass, structures are supported with rich, multi-colored tiles, and winding pathways lead to colorful onion domes around every corner. Spending time in a Hundertwasser is like spending time in Oz. Details: 6126 Silverado Trail, Napa, California, www.quixotewinery.com.

Taylor’s Automatic: For lunch, you can almost get away with eating at any great Napa restaurant with kids. If you’re spending a couple of days in Napa, take advantage of these great culinary giants. However, if you’re only spending a day and need a good and relaxed place for dinner, stop by Taylor’s Automatic. With a reputation far and wide for some of the best all-natural California beef burgers topped with mouth-watering cheeses and fresh veggie accents, Taylor’s delivers. Grab some burgers, garlic fries, beers, and malts and belly-up to one of the picnic tables that sit in the shadow of this timeless drive-in-style beauty. Details: 933 Main St., St. Helena, California, www.taylorsrefresher.com.

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Adventure San Francisco: Blue Ribbon Clam Chowder

While eating at Hog Island Oyster Co., my husband proclaimed that the clam chowder was the best he has ever had—and, growing up on the east coast, he definitely has consumed his fair share of chowder. So, naturally, our table had to order another round of this blue ribbon-style delicacy prior to settling the bill.

Hog Island Oyster Co. is located in the Ferry Building in downtown San Francisco. Squeezed amongst some of our country’s most talented culinary artisans (and only a few steps away from the Alcatraz boat dock), Hog Island manages to hold its own. The menu only offers a handful of items—clams, fresh greens, cheese, a few daily specials, and oysters, where they farm these succulent lovelies at their Hog Island Oyster Farm in Tomales Bay (which, by the way, can be visited for educational tours and picnics).

While my youngest son happily absorbed a melt-in-your-mouth Cow Girl Creamery grilled cheese sandwich, my oldest son, my husband, and I inhaled a plate of raw oysters and feasted on the chowder fused with root vegetables, bacon, and a heaping pile of Manila clams still in their shells. Like most San Francisco restaurants, Hog Island offers a varied wine list but, more importantly, beers on tap to accompany those rustic and glorious gifts from the sea.

To echo my husband’s bold declaration of chowder-love, my oldest son thoughtfully added after his meal, “We should definitely think about moving to San Francisco.” Details: www.hogislandoysters.com, One Ferry Building 11A, San Francisco, CA, 415.391.7117, www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com.

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