Breakfast on the Road...

Location: Linn's Bakery and Cafe, Cambria, CA

So who said breakfast fare had to be boring??? Perhaps many of us have become cynical about the idea of a fantastic breakfast, being surrounded by so many chain restaurants offering $4 dollar deals and serving what seems to be yesterday’s pancakes! ... Or simply being too busy to stop, sit and entertain eating in the morning...really? We don’t even stop for coffee anymore! Why? There’s drive-thru Starbuck’s! LOL :)

Well... stopping and enjoying (and smelling the roses, or in this case, the scones!)seems to be the thing to do in the magical little town of Cambria, California! Taking a brisk morning walk on a beautiful spring morning... my friend and I made our way through town along the main road. I honestly don’t think I have seen so many “Mom and Pop” establishments, let alone cafes!! There were at least a dozen, if not more, that we passed by, but by impulse chose to stop and enter Linn’s Bakery. I honestly was enrolled by the tall, yet charming building...having a "thing" for aesthetics... it seemed natural to go into this place without any point of reference about what kind of eatery this was. I was very quickly taken in by the fantastic and intoxicating fragrance of freshly baked goods and the wonderful surroundings, so we chose a corner table to "sit" and have breakfast.

From Linn's Cambria

You immediately get wind of what this warm place is about, it’s all about family; the Linn Family. The friendly server immediately brought a menu to us, only to confirm the history of the place; it is a family owned gourmet empire! What started small has become the original Linn’s, along with a sister cafe "Easy as Pie", in Cambria, as well. If that weren’t enough, a gourmet bakery, gift shop and online store!

Turns out they are famous for their Ollalieberry baked goods! (and jams!) ... I was sold! There is nothing in the world that I love more than an amazing baked good with a tart berry! The ollalieberry is a hybrid berry, if you will. This berry came to be through the fusion of a raspberry and a blackberry... and what a genius marriage that was! Tart and just the right amount of sweet, this berry leaves you much to talk about!

From Linn's Cambria

Of course, I couldn’t resist this whole berry theme, so I ordered a freshly baked Ollalieberry scone, which apparently is one of the best-sellers! "Hello, lover!"... was my first thought! :) ... is it necessary to embellish on that thought, really? LOL
The funny part is that they take a perfectly baked plain buttermilk scone and top it with their gourmet pie filling/topping! I am not the biggest fan of plain scones... but aside from the fact that this scone could stand on its own two feet (well, that is if it had feet, of course!)… :) ... but the amazing creation of ollalieberry dessert topping just made it perfection at every bite! I am still quite shocked I didn’t just order 1/2 a dozen scones for breakfast and called it a day! :)

OK... I do recall why I didn’t have just a scone (or 3 or 4) for breakfast, the fare they offered was to fantastic too pass up! So I ordered the Crab Vegetable omelette ... and my friend ordered the Eggs Benedict w/ homemade sausage.

From Linn's Cambria

This omelette is a must try... fresh Northern Cali crab fused with seasonings/veggies and a fantastic cream sauce... and it was accompanied by a side of very fresh hash brown potatoes and freshly cut fruit! I, of course, had to have a side of avocado with my order... there is nothing like the freshness of an avocado to lighten up breakfast fare!! A smile at every bite!!

From Linn's Cambria

Being a huge fan of Eggs Benedict for the better part of his life, my friend raved about Linn’s version of Benedict (Coming from a true foodie... this would be a very good thing!) They came served up on an English muffin, of course, with the amazing hash browns ... and looked amazing! I can’t say I tasted them, as I had quite a bit to indulge in myself, however, a bite of the sausage was a burst of flavor.... And distinctly obvious it was freshly made.

Great OJ... and Java to wash down a pretty spectacular start to a fantastic California morning! Of course, we ventured to the rear of the restaurant where an old road leads you to the gourmet shop... I just had to take home a jar of the Ollalieberry Preserves... they are THAT good! Of course... you can order the goods online at www.linnsfruitbin.com. The selection available online is mouth watering and would make some pretty fantastic gifts… especially around the holidays!

From Linn's Cambria

I highly recommend this wonderful café... for all of you passing thru Cambria... I know for sure I will return in the very near future!! I’m already tasting that Ollalieberry scone in my mouth...YUM!

2 "Throwdown" Chefs on 5 de Mayo = Muy Delicioso!

Location: La Casita Mexicana, Bell, CA

I believe I have mentioned before that I stop at nothing, to find the best food, in the most unlikely places. Living in Los Angeles, it’s a given that if you want a taste of the extraordinary, you venture West... West LA, that is! I must admit that some of my favorite eateries are on that side of town... but you’ve got to love finding authenticity on a plate, in an unlikely side of town... and wouldn’t you know it?? I have done it again!!

La Casita Mexicana is located in Bell; a small community located about 15 minutes from Downtown LA. Predominantly a Hispanic community, Bell is the home of many small "Mom and Pop" restaurants, many Mexican food, others from a variety of Latin American countries... there is quite a bit to choose from. But seldom do you come across a jewel of an eatery, which boasts, not only truly authentic Mexican cuisine, but Mexican gone gourmet!! Chefs Jaime Martin Del Campo and Ramiro Arvizu, are the geniuses behind this operation.

Jaime and Ramiro have gained quite a bit of notoriety since they appeared on Food Network’s "THROWDOWN with Bobby Flay", where Bobby Flay challenged them to a cook-off with his take on a gourmet Chile Relleno, since this Mexican duo have become famous for their amazing chiles rellenos, my favorite being "Chile en Nogada." They made their "vegetarian" version (which includes nopales (cactus) amongst the key ingredients) for the THROWDOWN... but regardless, their chiles rellenos are so good, that even Mr. Flay didn’t manage to outdo them!!

I visited this quaint café on Cinco de Mayo, as it only seemed fitting to eat Mexican on that day, right? (I guess this was just my excuse... most use this day as an excuse to have one tequila too many... this was my excuse to indulge... and so I did!) LOL :) ... On this particular day, the chefs decided to serve some Botanas Mexicanas which equate to the South of the Border’s answer to small portions of typical fare, like tapas, if you will. The choices today were Sopes, Tacos de Papa (Potato tacos) and Pozole. It seemed as though I had been transported to Jalisco in the blink of an eye!

For starters the soup of the day was Caldo de Arroz Mexicano. This was a cream based soup with Mexican Fried Rice as the star ingredient... (I know you are tasting it right now!) ... It was very good... A warm, comforting feeling in your tummy, actually! The kind of soup you would want to enjoy on a cold rainy day!! Delish!

My friend chose to have the Sopes, as an homage to the occasion. I, of course, had to order the Chile en Nogada!! Call me a creature of habit, if you must, but this is one of those things that I would not make at home, and "when in Rome..." Or should I say "...when in Bell..." LOL

Botanas Mexicanas (Plate of Sopes) ... 5 de Mayo Special of the day!

From LaCasitaMexicana

The sopes were simple and flavorful. These Mexican treats sit on a corn base... almost like a thick tortilla (made of masa) and pan fried to cook and create a crunchy exterior. They offered the chicken or pork version so we chose two chicken and one pork. They were served as sopes are traditionally, garnished with lettuce, tomato and queso fresco (a cheese with the consistency of crumbled feta). I have had many versions of this dish throughout my life, but these were true to their Mexican origin, simple and flavorful!

Chile en Nogada... (I order this everytime!!)

From LaCasitaMexicana

Then there was my chile relleno!! This is no Chile relleno for the fainthearted... nor the ones that are used to the more common plain cheese version... nothing wrong with those, but they definitely do not compare to these!! This recipe is not typically found in just any restaurant. The chefs delicately stuff this green chile with a ground beef mixture that is fused with raisins and chopped nuts, and seasoned with spices to give this mixture a very warm feel. They then cover the top of the chile with a nut cream sauce and it is garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds! I must add, that the pomegranate seeds make this dish aesthetically delightful; however, the tartness with the warmth of the sauce and meat mixture combined with the spiciness of the chile, is a flavor unlike any other! A true treat and a sheer delight at every bite! A must try for all you foodies out there!

The chefs, being true to their Mexican roots, were so hospitable and truly gracious hosts. I almost felt as though I had been at my mother’s home, where food abounds and the sight of an empty plate is not possible because there is always more where that came from! So wouldn’t you know it... some Potato tacos showed up at our table, followed by Chicken Pozole!

I must admit that I was leery about the potato tacos at first... not because the presentation wasn’t picture perfect, but having grown up in a very traditional Mexican family, my mother made some truly fantastic potato tacos, a recipe that has become famous amongst family and friends and that are often referred to as "killer"! I took the first bite... and really took in the true essence of Mexico, and the origin of a potato taco. This delicacy, if you will, is one of the simplest of Mexican foods you may ever encounter, but when done right... simple, fused with the right seasonings and textures... you have a winner! Not greasy at all... A true delight at every bite... Could totally give mom a run for her money! LOL

Tacos de papa (Potato Tacos)... Simple, but delicious!

From LaCasitaMexicana

Then came the pozole! Traditionally this is made with pork, but in true California spirit, Ramiro and Jaime prepared the healthier alternative, Chicken Pozole. Can I just say, "YUM!" Of course, this came accompanied by the typical garnishes; shredded cabbage, onion, sliced radishes and lime! This was truly Mexican authenticity at its best! The broth had a red chile base... it wasn’t too spicy... but the flavor was perfectly fused! There is a reason why this has become the remedy for a hangover... the spice and the flavor can revive the human spirit like nothing else!

Chicken Pozole

From LaCasitaMexicana

I must admit... I was ready to pop at this point! That was quite a bit of food we had the true pleasure of enjoying... the problem is that it is so amazing you just don’t want to put your fork (or spoon) down! So alas... we were winding down to the end of a very hearty and fantastic dinner. But how do you go to LA CASITA and not have the Guavas en Rompope for dessert? LOL

Yes! We still ordered dessert!! How does that happen that there is always room for a bit of something sweet!?!?

Guavas en Rompope

From LaCasitaMexicana

I have always been a huge fan of all things tropical, especially fruits! Guavas are a huge part of the Mexican culture... I enjoyed them growing up... and I still do! But you have got to love the "adult" version of a guava... that would be how Jaime and Ramiro serve them up! Rompope is a rum-based Mexican liqueur, with an eggnog flavor, if you will. These genius chefs take this liqueur and create a sauce, with what seems to be a simple syrup and serve the fruit straight up dressed in this sauce. A wonderful indulgence in every bite!! (I have to admit... I order these every time!!) A must try when you come visit the chefs that make our South of the Border neighbors very proud!

I invite you all to come visit this quaint establishment! If you are always on the lookout for a great eatery... you needn’t go any farther to find this fantastic fare!
The fun part is getting to meet these two very charming and fabulous chefs... not only do they serve up a true Mexican Culinary experience, they epitomize the beautiful spirit of this amazing country... and truly represent what Mexican Gastronomy should be!

The 2 fabulous chefs, Ramiro and Jaime ...and the future Food Network Star, Elle!! :) (One can only dream!)

From LaCasitaMexicana

Take a look at their website www.casitamex.com, you will meet the chefs (online for now)... and see how they have taken Mexican cuisine to a level that makes me proud of my Mexican heritage! Be sure to tell them that Elvia sent you when you go visit!! ... and as we would say in Spanish, Buen provecho!

A California treat for all the senses!

Location:
The Black Cat
(An American Bistro and Wine Bar), Cambria, CA

Cambria, California. What does one say about this quaint little town tucked away along the coastline of this beautiful state? Nestled at the crossroads where Highways 1 and 46 meet, and just a 3 ½ hour drive from Los Angeles, this little town is the antidote for the busy city life and everyday concerns. A great place to spend a quiet and lazy weekend and enjoy wine tasting at nearby Paso Robles wineries or the perfect stopover on the way to a Northern California destination.

Along the main street you will come across what is perhaps the cutest restaurant in this adorable town...in what seems to have been an old craftsman style home...this bistro is the perfect place to end a long afternoon drive up the coast... There is a story behind this fantastic eatery, and it is shared on their friendly website which I highly encourage you to visit. Their menu philosophy is simple: "To please their guests with imaginative fare, while using fresh, local and seasonal ingredients."

From cambria

I must say to start, that the staff is amazing, they held our reservation, despite the fact that we were running quite late; did I mention the Friday traffic in Southern California… need I say more?? LOL. Having said that, I was a tad car sick when we arrived and asked for a huge favor; I asked our server if she’d be so kind to bring me some hot water with a couple bite size pieces of fresh ginger, in order for me to settle my stomach. Though this was clearly not on the menu, she very cheerfully obliged and within a few short minutes returned with relief... And sure enough... worked like magic...in a matter of minutes! I so appreciate that kind of amazing service!! (and we had not even ordered yet!) :)

We started with a very much needed beverage, I went with the Kir Royale, as this champagne based beverage mixed with framboise (liqueur) makes me nostalgic for my time in Paris and this drink is not something commonly found on a bar menu anywhere. As expected, simply delicious and a perfect start to a rather fantastic evening. The only difference with this Kir was that it was made with Prosecco, which is Italy’s version of champagne; it still resulted in a refreshing, crisp and light drink. My friend chose a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, this one from Cedar Lane Vineyards. I must say I was rather impressed by this white wine...typically Sauvignon Blancs are pretty dry, but this one had some bright and crisp citrus notes, a very pleasant surprise that begged for a second glass!! I will have to make sure to pick up a bottle of this Sauvignon Blanc when I find it!

From cambria

It was a bit late for dinner, so instead of having a full meal, we decided to go with two appetizers and then shared one entree...what a great idea that turned out to be! (That meant we could try several things!)
To start, we ordered the Gorgonzola stuffed green olives...presented on a cute white plate, these olives are flash fried in order to melt the cheese. Simple but delicious...a no fuss appetizer that wakes up your palette with warm comfort!

From cambria

The second appetizer was the one that almost got away...but I insisted...it sounded too decadent to pass up! Mushroom and Sage Gnocchi; made with Shitake, cremini and oyster mushrooms. It was served with shredded radicchio with a martini cream and asiago cheese. For those of you not familiar with this Italian comfort food; it is a pasta, of sorts, made with potatoes and flour; the result is what seems to be small pillows of potato that are sheer bliss! The texture of the gnocchi was perfect! (I have attempted to make it from scratch, to no avail! It was a bit mushy when I tried...so this is something I need to perfect in the future. If only the result could be like the ones served here! Every bite put a smile on your face...a party in your mouth, if you will!

From cambria

This was followed by a truly flavorful Arugula salad! Not being a stranger to some amazing salads...this one was a creation to be proud of; perfect flavors fused together with Crispy Pancetta, Goat cheese, chopped apple bits and the happy surprise: Roasted Peanuts! (Who knew?) ... I have always enjoyed nuts in my salads...but very typically pecans, walnuts and pine nuts is what you will encounter. The roasted peanuts added a warmth to the salad, along with the pancetta and goat cheese. (My mouth is watering as I recollect the flavors! Yum!) :)


For the entree we went with the Wild California Halibut, quite fitting, since we were embarking on a long weekend road trip of sorts, in this very beautiful state I call home! The dish was simple, but delectable. What made it different was the specific presentation. Served with a Kalamata and bread tapenade in a roasted fennel broth with shaved fennel and orange and accompanied by butter braised fingerling potatoes and haricots verts (the French version of green beans). Do I really need to embellish more on this dish after this description?? A smart dish...very fresh and wonderful flavor with every bite. I highly recommend without a second thought!

From cambria

At this point, my evening couldn’t have been more perfect! I was in a very relaxed and cozy ambiance, had the perfect company with amazing conversation... ironically enough, sharing more inspiration about my new culinary endeavors!! So being in that place of inspiration and feeling great, I thought nothing could top my evening. Boy, was I was wrong!

From cambria

Then came dessert!! Talk about a happy and memorable ending... though there was some pretty wonderful choices that evening, we went with what our very friendly server recommended: Berries atop a fluffy cloud (if you will) of mascarpone cheese and cream with white chocolate folded in... resting in a fresh and flaky puff pastry shell drizzled with a balsamic reduction and basil simple syrup!!! Need I say more?? Just recalling the decadence in my mouth makes me feel like I am recreating the calories in my body all over again!! But this dessert was worth all the calories it came with... there was absolutely no guilt resulting from this indulgence! This was simple, but truly a masterpiece that a genius chef concocted!! (and many of you know how discriminating my palette is especially when it comes to desserts!) :) I can only hope that when I get to visit this charming bistro once again they will be serving this same work of art!! Kudos to the chef!

From cambria

All in all, a truly memorable culinary experience! Very well prepared food... creative and the perfect fusion of flavors and textures! I will return to this town... precisely because it is the home of the Black Cat!!

Next time you are feeling like you need to get away...but you’re not quite sure where to venture to...wonder no more! Go visit chef/owner Deborah Scarborough and her very friendly staff... you will not be disappointed!! For all Los Angelinos, it is worth fighting Friday evening gridlock for... but you have to stay the night... take in the delights of this charming town... stop and smell the roses for a bit!

Visit the Black Cat’s webpage at: www.blackcatbistro.com
(Don’t forget to tell the chef who sent you!)…Cheers and bon appetit!!