Tofu alla Vodka

So, I don’t normally blog about cooking, but hey, why not? This blog’s for anything that interests me and I’ve been getting down in the kitchen lately… or at least trying to.

Recently, I’ve become a fan of tofu and I like to pick up a block at the grocery store every now and then. It’s nice to switch it up a bit and channel my inner vegetarian every once in awhile. Last night, I was trying to think of a new way to cook my tofu and that’s when I remembered the leftover vodka sauce in my fridge. Ding ding… tofu alla vodka was born. End result can be seen below.

First, I cut up a block of tofu into small-ish pieces, then placed half of it into a pan and cooked it up with some cooking spray. In another pan, I heated up some chopped spinach. After about 4-5 minutes of cooking each, I mixed the spinach in with the tofu and poured some vodka sauce over it. Then, I stirred it all together for a few minutes and bam, you have yourself tofu alla vodka. It’s really, really simple, but it was so good.  If you wanna get cray and one-up me, you can make your own vodka sauce.

After I was done with my meal, I decided to Google “tofu alla vodka” and I was surprised to see that there was only one other recipe out there. It was on Barefoot and in the Kitchen, but it was a little different than mine (it included spaghetti). I felt kinda cool for thinking up a recipe that hadn’t appeared anywhere else on the Internet.

Teak on the Hudson [Hoboken Restaurant Week]

It’s Restaurant Week here in Hoboken and I celebrated by going to Teak on the Hudson tonight with my friend Danielle! It was the best decision of my day week. In honor of Hoboken Restaurant Week, Teak had a special, pre-fixe menu (for two) for $39.99 — we were able to choose an appetizer, two entrees and a dessert (in addition to complimentary bread or edamame). There were also great drink specials; I got a Bombay Sapphire Cucumber Mojito… for $5! Awesome prices all around.

We started with the Fried Calamari, which came with two dipping sauces, and it was the perfect way to start the meal. It was a huge portion and absolutely delicious. I really liked how it had a spicy little zest to it. Then, for our entrees we both ordered the Filet Minon Wellington, which was served inside a soft pastry along with crumbles of gorgonzola cheese. It. Was. To. Die. For. Each bite practically melted in my mouth. This was my first time having filet minon and it was an amazing first impression. Finally, it was time for dessert… we got the Vanilla Fried Ice Cream, thanks to our server’s (much appreciated) recommendation. Just like everything else we ate, it was delicious. Great way to end the meal. All in all, this was one of the best meals I’ve ever had.

My friend and I were stuffed to the brim by the time we got the bill. On top of the delicious food, Teak’s atmosphere was very classy and relaxing. As you walk through the front door, you’re greeted with unique decorations and dim, changing lights, which set a nice mood. Also, you can’t miss the gigantic fish tank behind the bar, which I thought was really cool. Service was really great, too. I would absolutely, 100% go back to Teak. I honestly can’t get over how amazing it was.

Hands down, I give Teak on the Hudson 5/5 stars.

The IKEA Experience

Over the years, I’ve been hearing nonstop raves about IKEA, but I’ve never been… that is, until the other day. Since I’m moving out in October, I’ll be needing some new furnishings and I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to finally hop on the IKEA bandwagon.

I somewhat expected to be overwhelmed, so I brought John with me and overwhelmed is exactly what I felt when I walked through those doors… but, in a good way. I felt like I was walking through the entrance of an amusement park. There was so much going on and I didn’t know where to begin. We started our journey through the aisles of IKEA and there was such a wide variety of merchandise to choose from — you could really buy something for any room of your home. Aside from lunch, I didn’t end up buying anything (at the store), but it was super beneficial to see things in person prior to buying them online, which is what I did when I got home. I had a question about shipment, so I called customer service after leaving the store; I spoke with two people and they were both extremely helpful and friendly. After speaking to each of those IKEA reps, they cleared my concerns and I was confident in placing an order for my furniture online.

Not only have I heard great things about IKEA’s furniture, but I was also told to try their food (mainly by Dana). Everything actually looked really good… surprising, right? I ended up getting the Swedish meatballs served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries (something I never knew existed until my sister told me about them, after trying them at IKEA). Upon Dana’s recommendation, I also bought a lingonberry soda. Overall, the food was actually pretty good (below, check out a picture of my meal). I honestly wouldn’t be deterred from buying food at IKEA again in the future.

Speaking of IKEA again in the future, the probability of that statement is very likely. Why? Everything was so amazingly affordable and and there was so much to choose from. Many of the items were very modern and plain-looking, but that’s exactly what I was looking for. You can tell some of the merchandise isn’t the best quality, but that’s with any store, really. You can leave IKEA with a great bargain and have some nice lookin’ pieces for your home!

Overall, my first IKEA experience was great, both in the store and offsite (dealing with customer service on the phone and placing my order online). It’s a really great place for students and people who are looking to start out with their first homes/apartments, which is what I’m doing. IKEA definitely makes it possible to give your home some swag without spending too much money.

Lefteris [Greek restaurant]

I haven’t blogged about any restaurants in awhile, but I ate at Lefteris today in Tarrytown, and what better day to blog about a Greek restaurant than on National Gyro Day! Thanks to John for keeping me updated on the national food holidays, as per usual.

I’ve been dying to go to Lefteris for quite some time now (probably a few years to be honest), especially since I live in Rockland, right across the river from Westchester (where the restaurant is located). I’ve always heard great things about this place and I finally tried it for myself today and I’m glad I did because my gyro was delicious! See below for a picture. No complaints about the food. I’d definitely go back to try some other items on their menu because it all sounded great.

The service was freakishly speedy. I think my friend and I were waiting for two minutes (maybe less) until our gyros were sitting in front of us. We chose to sit outside, which was nice, but the tables were way too close together. Still not sure what the inside looks like, but I’m sure it’s nice… I’d probably opt to sit indoors next time to scope it out.

I give Lefteris 4/5 stars. If you’re a fan of Greek food (or curious to try it), give this place a go for sure!

You can also check out my review, along with other restaurant reviews, on my Yelp profile.

Ever Eat a Hot Dog With Soul?

Last weekend, I went up to Marist for spring alumni weekend — every time I go up there with my friends, it’s always a process to pick where we want to eat because there are so many great places to choose from. There’s one restaurant, though, that always seems to make the cut. That restaurant is Soul Dog. Special thanks to my friend Emma, hot dog connoisseur, for introducing me to this soulful hot dog joint during my senior year at Marist. It’s a shame I didn’t know about it earlier in my college career.

Soul Dog is known for their hot dogs… go figure, right? It’s not particularly the hot dogs that make this place so great… it’s all the sides you get to choose from! My personal favorite toppings are guacamole, sour cream, and Soul Sauce (the restaurant’s special, spicy sauce). Along with my usual hotdog, I also order a side, whether it’s: jalapeno hush puppies, fried pickles, a bowl of soup, or Soul/BBQ/Jerk/Cajun fries (among many others). In addition to hot dogs and a variety of sides, Soul Dog also serves sandwiches, pizza, baked goods, and much more! Check out the full menu here.

Another great thing about Soul Dog is their vegetarian and Gluten-free options. This doesn’t necessarily affect me, but I think it’s great that they’re so accommodating.

I give Soul Dog 5/5 stars without a doubt! Not only is the food out of this world, but the staff is very friendly, the prices are affordable, and the atmosphere is laidback. The space is very small (see picture below), but there always seems to be a table available. Plus, when it gets warmer, there’s outdoor seating, which is really nice. You’re also provided with crayons and board games to keep you busy while you’re waiting for your food, which is great for my impatience (especially when it comes to food). If you’re ever in Poughkeepsie or the surrounding area, Soul Dog is an absolute must!

Santorini Grill [Greek restaurant]

Last night, I was in Brooklyn for Dana‘s art show, and we stumbled upon this amazing Greek restaurant, Santorini Grill, in Williamsburg.

I love Greek food to begin with, but this was absolutely amazing. I started off with a Greek beer, Aris, which I enjoyed, and my sister ordered calamari for the table, which was also very good. For my dinner, I ordered the (lamb) Gyro Platter… a-ma-zing. The meat came with fresh pita bread and Tzatziki (yogurt sauce with cucumbers). The dish also came with homemade french fries, which looked like potato chips… so good! Everything was prepared so perfectly… everyone at the table enjoyed their meals. The picture below is what the gyro platter looks like (warning: it’ll make you hungry). Be sure to check out their full menu.

My family isn’t usually one to order dessert at a restaurant, but we enjoyed the food/service so much that we had to. I ordered the Galaktoboureko (try saying that five times fast… or once), which is custard topped with flaky filo dough and some sort of syrup… it was delicious. My dad ordered the Baklava (layered filo with almonds, walnuts, and honey syrup), and the waiter was nice enough to bring us another dessert, Karidopita (a traditional walnut cake) on the house. Of course I tried the other two desserts in addition to my own… both very good.

I give Santorini Grill 5/5 stars. The food was authentic and delicious; the staff was extremely friendly and efficient; and the atmosphere was relaxed, clean, and authentic as well. If you’re ever in Williamsburg, or even nearby, I would definitely recommend Santorini Grill. Next time I visit Dana and I’m in the mood for Greek food, you better believe I’ll be going back.

Pinkberry [frozen yogurt]

I pass Pinkberry almost every day on my way to and from work, and it tempts me every single time… even when it’s freezing outside. I finally caved in when my friend, Emma, was telling me about it the other day… it was her first time trying it and she said it was amazing. That did it for me… I had to try it.

I walked into the Pinkberry on Second Ave. in Manhattan and started looking at the menu, and it must’ve been apparent that it was my first time because the cashier asked: “Is this your first time here?” She went on to explain the “rules” of Pinkberry… and it was very helpful because I hate going to places for the first time and feeling like a giant fool, not knowing how to order properly.

In addition to their original flavor, they have a bunch of seasonal flavors as well. I ordered pomegranate, which turned out to be very good. After you choose which flavor of frozen yogurt you want, you get to pick from a variety of toppings. You can choose from fresh fruit, dry, liquid, or even Luxe (which costs $0.50 extra/scoop). All toppings are prepared fresh everyday to ensure the quality taste that is Pinkberry. A small size gets you four toppings, which is what I got… I chose blueberries, raspberries, graham crackers, and chocolate shavings. Great choices. The Pinkberry Web site even tells you which toppings taste best with the flavor of frozen yogurt you choose, which is pretty cool.

In addition to the normal frozen yogurt in a cup with toppings, you can order smoothies, fruit bowls, fruit parfaits, and frozen yogurt in a cone.

I give Pinkberry 5/5 stars. I received excellent customer service as soon as I walked through the door. Not only was the cashier very friendly, but extremely helpful as well. Most importantly, the frozen yogurt was delicious, and there are endless possibilities to choose from with the different flavors of frozen yogurts and toppings. I’ll definitely be going back to Pinkberry, especially with the warmer weather coming… also doesn’t help that it’s a few blocks away from my office.

The Melting Pot [fondue restaurant]

After hearing so much buzz about The Melting Pot, I finally ate there the other night for Justin‘s Birthday. If you like fondue, then this if for you. You like that rhyme, right?

We started out with the cheese fondue. Out of the options, we went with the spinach and artichoke cheese, which was delicious. Definitely a great choice. Each cheese fondue is served with fresh bread, vegetables, and apples. The server melts the cheese and blends all the ingredients right in front of you, which was pretty cool.

We skipped the meat course, but I definitely wouldn’t mind trying this next time I go. You choose your meat(s) and cooking style, then you cook it yourself.

After the cheese fondue, we skipped right to dessert… I couldn’t resist after I saw the chocolate fondue menu. Since it was Justin’s Birthday and he has a sick obsession with peanut butter, we got The Original, which is The Melting Pot’s signature chocolate with a swirl of crunchy peanut butter. As for the dippers, you’re given strawberries, bananas, cheesecake, marshmallows, Rice Krispies Treats, pound cake, and brownies. This was to die for. If anything, I would even suggest going to The Melting Pot just for the dessert… I couldn’t get over how good it was.

I give The Melting Pot 4.5/5 stars. Although it was a bit expensive, it was definitely worth it. The food was delicious, the ambiance was classy and relaxed, the service was speedy, and our server was very friendly, attentive, and helpful.

When we got our check, the server made the mistake of telling me about Club Fondue, which I obviously signed up for. For every dollar you spend, you get a point. When you get a certain amount of points, you get a gift certificate to The Melting Pot. You also get a free chocolate fondue during your next visit, which was worth it just for that if you ask me.

Lenny’s [The Ultimate Sandwich]

Sometimes, when I walk to work in the morning, I pass a small sandwich shop called Lenny’s. It’s always crowded so I finally decided to check it out today for lunch. Before I walked over, I looked at the menu online, and there were so many things to choose from — breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, wraps, and much more — but what they’re really known for is their sandwiches. Luckily, that’s exactly what I was in the mood for.

I was trying to decide what I wanted to order and I finally narrowed my decision down to two options, the Jimmy T and the Vegetarian Special. As I was waiting on line, I heard a man behind me say he always gets the same sandwich, the Jimmy T, every time he comes to Lenny’s because it’s so good. Since that was one of my final choices, I decided to order that. The Jimmy T is one of Lenny’s most famous sandwiches housing a chicken cutlet with melted cheese, grilled onions, sweet peppers, and honey mustard. I got it on a regular roll, but you can choose from all different kinds of bread. You can also customize your sandwich any way you want with various ingredients. I kept mine the way it was suggested and it was delicious.

I give Lenny’s 5/5 stars for being a small on-the-go sandwich shop. In addition to priding themselves on creating the ultimate sandwich, Lenny’s also provides fast, efficient, and friendly service. I’m already thinking about what I would get next time, so there will definitely be more lunch breaks to be had at Lenny’s in the near future.

Casa del Sol [Mexican restaurant]

I ate dinner at Casa del Sol for the first time tonight… It’s a really nice Mexican place right on Main Street (104) in Nyack. I loved it right as I walked through the door and saw the vibrant lighting and decorations (as shown below).

The food was really good too. I had a chicken and cheese quesadilla… Nothing spectacular compared to other Mexican food I’ve had, but certainly no complaints either. Everyone else seemed to enjoy their meals too.

I only had a Corona with dinner, but they had quite a selection of drinks on their menu. Seems like a nice place to grab drinks with friends… Definitely something to keep in mind next time I’m in Nyack. They also have live music some nights (not sure about the specifics), but I bet it’s a good time. I give Casa del Sol 4/5 stars.