The Good Dog, Center City Philadelphia, PA

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

　

The Good Dog

Center City, Philadelphia, PA

224 South 15th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
p. 215.985.9600
f. 215.985.1918
info@gooddogbar.com

http://www.gooddogbar.com/

Today is a day that I just found myself walking off the beaten path.. I love to watch Guy Fieri in triple D all the time (Diners ~Drive-ins and Dives.). He has gone to a few places that are within my stomping grounds. I decided to fallow him in his footsteps this time.. Into The Good Dog I had stopped there once before with a friend and had some local brews that I’ve never tried before.. I am a Dog lover so, I found myself gazing wildly at all the Pictures that they have flowing all over the place.. They always say, that a Dogs owner starts to look like his/her dog after a while…. and the scary thing is,… I think I found my long lost best friend on one of the walls.. Man what a resemblance!! OK, Well anyway….

This time I went back with him and another friend of his. And I do have to say that the food IS something to write home about.. We started out having the Truffled cheese steak empanadas stuffed with thinly sliced Rib-eye steak & Truffled cheddar cheese, served with a bourbon infused rogue chocolate stout sauce for dipping… That was outstanding… In every bite there was a full bountiful taste of the Rib-Eye, The Truffle was not over powering, but very delicate. Mixed with cheddar it gave it balance.. There was the bourbon infused rogue chocolate sauce.. Which tasted to me like it had the natural drippings of the rib-eye right in there.. It was a beautiful marriage..

My Friend had the good dog burger, 1/2 lb. of house ground sirloin stuffed with Roquefort cheese & topped with caramelized onions, served on a toasted brioche bun.. My other friend had the fried tomato BLT, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce & fried

tomatoes topped with basil mayo, served on country sourdough.. Yes, I am wondering the same thing… It must of been great~~ She did not offer me a taste at all.. And it was all gone.. Hummmm !

I ordered the famous Duck Pot Pie.. duck confit, peas, shiitake mushrooms, celery, carrots, onions & potatoes all in a savory duck gravy baked between two layers of golden pie crust, served with mixed greens in a creamy balsamic vinaigrette … Well, I am not a fan of this one.. But I have to say. I think it was an off day for one of the cooks. It was served to me without the side greens and the top and bottom crust was not golden.. It was still raw.. And the center of the dish was very very bland.. Very starchy taste.. I had to send it back.. I then went and ordered the Good dog Burger as my friend had.. The waiter and the Chef both came out and apologized for the error.. And comped my whole meal.. Plus they did not even know who I was and, that I am reviewing them That spoke volumes to me.. That they go out of their way to satisfy the guest.. They where so loving, kind and apologetic about it to me.. That kind of service excites me and pumps me up.. Chef… Bella Primo to Ya !!

Oh yes, The Good Dog Burger.. Eminently impressive!!! You bite into this burger and it ousses out with a oooey gooey saucy Roquefort cheese of delight. The fresh taste of the sirloin, the eye rollingly good caramelized onion right on top with a Brioche bun.. It all just melts in your mouth…. As Guy would say, “I was riding the train to favor town on that one“..

All in all, as I was visiting. I felt like I was in a place with family.. Very warm loving and a friendly atmosphere.. All the comforts of home …350 miles away..



There is nothing better then enjoying a great place to eat, except for having the company that you have, and bring with you.. I am hoping that I can get a few of you to join me in this adventurous journey and, experience it with me.. Just something to think about.. If you have a place in mind and want to join me.. Send me a message..

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Pucci’s Restaurante and Pizza

                         A Journey of Love, Style and Taste
                                                              By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser
                                                                      Philadelphia, USA

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

Pucci’s Restaurante and Pizza

                                                          728 Highland Ave
                                                      Waterbury, CT 06708
                                                    www.puccisrestaurant.com
                                                             203-757-4266

Today was a day of “ketchup” with great friends from high school.. And my memories were working in overdrive.. There are a lot of things that I wish I could have changed about myself if I knew better then what I know now.... Where is that time machine when you need it?.. I think I lent it out so much that I forgot who I gave the keys to last.. (-: oh well, I guess this is just a time that saying “It is what it is” works best.. You can not change the past BUT the future is ready and raw for the oven!!!.. Speaking of such;

As I was reliving my past, I took a trip with a great friend of mine “Eve’.. We went to have lunch at Pucci’s Restaurante and Pizza in Waterbury, CT.. Keith Gilbert, is Chef and Owner of Pucci’s. They have been the proprietors of Pucci’s for about 3 years now.. And it goes’ without saying that Chef Keith and his wife are doing very well for themselves.. They have put a lot of love into what is obvious, they are very passionate about.. And the food really comes out shining.

As, we sat down Eve, teased me that I had to touch the flowers on the table to see if they were real.. LOL …. I don’t really know why, I guess I was thinking on how far do they go on providing a loving and family atmosphere. I have seen a lot of fake flowers on tables, and you can see a lot in the small stuff. If they are serious about what they do?!

There was a complimentary Homemade Italian bread served. There are few foods that give me a memory spark but, I remembered as I was eating this that, it reminded me of a place that my Mom and Dad always took us when we were kids. It is not around anymore but, it was called the Arrow in Westport CT.. By the Train station in Saugatuck.. I like when that happens. I feel like I am at home where I am.. Even if I am far away..

I had the Eggplant Parmigiana . I choose that because, it is not a dish that just anyone can whip up easily.. It takes a lot of love to make.. It can be screwed up very easily. Eggplant is temperamental. It came with homemade, Cavitelli noodle pasta.. Cavitelli reminds me of Gnocchi.. But not made from potato. It was simply amazing.. Keith took the eggplant and sliced it thin. As you would for Prosciutto Italian ham. This enhances the taste and favor of the dish. Chef Keith did not bread it and, I think that was a great idea.. It was smothered with a lightly sweet Marinara more from the basil, and lemon from the Thyme. It had a over all balance to it and it was perfect.. The cheese was plentiful and gooing all over my plate ..Love that… The Cavitelli was divine. When making pasta from hand, It is all about time and temperature . Chef Keith hit the nail on the head with this one. It had a soft chew to it. Not doughy, It melted in your mouth..

My friend Eve, gave me a bite of her Chicken Parmigiana. Off the hook. Lavishly exquisite. The chicken was tender and seasoned perfectly.. I am a big foodie and I love all styles and cultures of foods but, my love… What I am a huge pushover for… Italian food. And chef Keith doe’s it so well.

I have a lot of friends in the southern CT area and a few in New York and New Jersey.. I really give a huge 2 thumbs up for Pucci’s.. it is not hard to get to. It is 2 minutes from RT 8 in Waterbury.. Go.. Be there, you will not regret it one bite..

 You have seen by now that all the places that I write about have great feed back.. Well.. There is a reason for that.. I have gone to a lot of Restaurants over time, and only the good ones stand out and are worth mentioning. Do you really want to hear the Bad things in life or the good things.. Yes, you are right.. The good things have more meaning, inspiration and impacted in your life..

There is nothing better then enjoying a great place to eat, except for having the company that you have, and bring with you.. I am hoping that I can get a few of you to join me in this adventurous journey and, experience it with me.. Just something to think about.. If you have a place in mind and want to join me.. Send me a message..

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Beck’s Cajun Cafe

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

Beck’s Cajun Café

The Reading Terminal Market

12^th and Arch Streets

Philadelphia, PA

www.BECKSCAJUNCAFE.com

Today was a nice not too Hot and, not too cold Fall day. I was inspired to take a walk through downtown Philly after work .. I am a people watcher and, I love to see what kind of hoopla is going on in the city.. Philly is known as a very diverse people.. And with all the Protesting going on at City Hall, and religious groups setting themselves up on the street corners, there is a lot to see and hear… As I was walking, The Redding Terminal Market pop up in mind…

Then onto Beck’s Cajun café.. Nothing better then on a nice brisk day to have something comforting from one of the best New Orleans style restaurants. When I 1^st moved down here, I didn’t have a lot of money left over.. So I walked around to a lot of different places in Philly.. And Beck’s Cajun was one that I will never forget.. Just from the experience that I am having from Beck’s is going to push me onto New Orleans one day.. And I hope to bring some of you with me..

I pulled myself up to the counter and said… OOO WEEE… That smells like good cookin.. I’ll git some of that Fantastic Etouffee with white rice and 2 sweet corn bread muffins.. I couldn’t stop my friends. I had to have the Muffaletta.. The Muffaletta Traditionally has Salami, Ham, Mortadella, Sharp Provolone and a olive salad served on Rustic Italian Bread… Out of this world good..

The Etouffee is a everyday Cajun~~ Creole traditional kind of life and love in eating. There are many star ingredients to use, like shrimp, chicken, lamb.. Either choice, you can find that the Etouffee is always a base of onion, peppers and celery.. (The trinity) a dark brown roux, seafood stock or Chicken stock and Cajun seasonings and, always served with rice.. I like to take the sweet corn bread and mix in cubes of it.. Oye… so good… I am telling you, I have not had Etouffee this good anywhere.. I have not even made it this well myself..

There is nothing better then enjoying a great place to eat, except for having the company that you have, and bring with you.. I am hoping that I can get a few of you to join me in this adventurous journey and, experience it with me.. Just something to think about..

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser



THE JOURNEY IN THE EYE’S OF NEW SKIN

THE JOURNEY IN THE EYE’S OF NEW SKIN

At this point of my life, I stopped to take a look back on where I have journeyed. I would love to tell you that it was all cherries and roses, and everything was perfect and easy. But, I would be misleading you greatly.. Don’t get me wrong; I have had a great life so far.. Even through the trials and tribulations. I would not change a thing.. I do not regret where I have come from.. Even though I some times felt that I was alone.. I was not at all.

Back when I was about 12 or 13 years old. I was an average kid some might say.. Yet I was under weight. If you had met me 4 years ago, you might have thought that I was pulling your leg.. One day, my Mom was told by our family Dr. “Feed the kid. He is underweight and he needs some meat on them bones“. If I was able to go back in time and tell him a thing or two. I would have said, Mind your own business Doc.… let the kid live his own life. Well, I started to grow in every sense of the word.. At the same time, I was bit of a shy kid when I was younger and I would be teased and bullied quite a bit.. I started to feel very insecure about a lot of things, and food started to be my outlet, a great deal of comfort to me. Either having a, bad or a good day. I would scarf down some of my favorite foods.

As, I got older, I did get more bold and the bullying stopped because, I took care of the situation. I would owe a lot of my strength to a bus driver we had in Grammar school named Toby. He was an inspiration to me. It was kind of like in “A Christmas Story” When Ralph would be bullied by that kid, and Ralph snapped one day. And beat the Tar out of him.. My Bully was Tom Grace.. No one got near me again.. Then I started to fight more often, but in the cause of all those that could not defend themselves. Then, a few kind hearted upper classmen football players at my high school decided that they needed to help me. ..

I was not shy anymore to say the least.. But, the eating habit continued.. Unknowingly, I kept the dream alive.. I went to culinary school Graduated with honors. My career grew and I was doing very well.

In 1996, things started to go into a bit of a Muck and Myer.. I lost 2 jobs, lost my car, got a car from my Brother ~n~ law, Got in an accident., found a job that was about a mile away bought a Bike to ride to work, the Bike was stolen!!! I walked to work in the dead of winter a mile a day to deliver fish to restaurants all for all for $5.90 an hour .. My roommate was a drunk, and he pulled out his gun and almost pulled the trigger, until I cried out dear Jesus, HELP… He fell to his knees in tears. I ran to my room and did the same.. Cried out… What do you want of me? My Mom and Dad had no clue what was happening.. 2 minutes later. My Mom called and told me that I needed to come to Florida.. I said to her, “wait.. let me think for a minute, can I check my plans. OK… I’m there!!!!” It is love that pulls us through…In a Moment.. Thank you Jesus!!

I got to Florida, Got a great job at a resort on a Island. Worked my way up in the company to Garde Manger “management” .. Got laid off… was out of work for 2 years.. A Great Christian man, a friend of mine that happened to be a Doctor. Had a Ranch, and all I had to do is maintain the 18 acre land and, I could live there for free. I had a 3,000 sqft. ranch house to myself for 2 years.. Even though I was out of work, I never went without.. I had food on the table, Car bills and repairs were paid.. I had a great family in Florida that always took care of me.. In Mind~ body~ and Spirit.. And the power of that was God. .I never gave up, I always thought of myself as a Lover and a fighter..

  I was always looking for ways, new ways or old ways to better myself.. To make a difference in this world.. I started an in-home Catering Service.. That was a hit.. I cooked for many families, Celebrities (Sports, Rock Bands, Radio so on..) I did very well.. Then the economy took a bad turn and everyone was holding on to their money. and that fell away too. Then I was about to go Back to CT. and The Ritz-Carlton called.. Oh yes.. No matter how bad things seem to be, When one door close’s 2 open up!!!… I was one of 3,000 candidates that was chosen for the position.. God is good..

In all of this.. I got so big in my weight.. I topped 458lbs.. I would get looks of discussed from many people. I would walk by and they would laugh or shake their heads. People who I thought where my friends talked about me and gossiped behind my back.. It broke my heart. I can not begin to tell you how I felt.. I would not be chosen for position that I wanted because of my weight. I was shunned by a pastor at my church that would not allow me to sing in the praise team or be in the drama’s because of my weight. I was alone in this world. All because of the vain, selfish and egotistical evil people. I can not sit here and judge either.. I have done many things myself that I am not proud of.. We are all sinners, Some choose to be saved by Grace, and we call fall short…

I dated a few even at this point in my life; But, many of them that I asked would either roll their eyes, or the brush off of politeness would say yes, and I would never hear from them again... I was in denial. But I woke up. I said that I would not do this for anyone but myself. I need to change my life and fast.. I was inches from a heart attack. I did every diet in the world over the years and nothing stuck. I started to look for a solution.. I was introduced to a surgery that was called the Lapband… I went 4 years and 3 Dr.’s before, I found the right one.. One of the (Dr’s ?) I went to did not even have a licenses to do the surgery.. I was a day away from getting it and, he called me up and canceled.. God was looking out for me.. I did not see it that way at the time. I was too angry.. I wanted to hurt him for mis-leading me and almost performing surgery on me. I am happy for accountable Brothers, that I got back on track again and finish what I have started.. My sister who is one of the top professional Nurses in a Yale New Haven Hospital, called the freak up and chewed him to bits. I believe that she reported him….

On May 5^th, El Cinco de Mayo . I got another type of surgery called the sleeve. It was a little more invasive then the Lapband but, I would have no complications to this day.. It was to cut the stomach itself and make it about 3oz, then they stapled it.. They showed it to me on an x-ray.. It looked like a Banana.. LOL This surgery was a tool, not the solution.. I had to still do all the work.. I could as well started eating a lot and stretched it out again.. But…. I believed….. I had faith that I was not alone in this.. If I asked I would receive. To this date, I have only 40 more lbs to go and most of that is extra skin before, I will be at my personal goal of 200. My Dr.’s goal, I am at now!!!.. Hallelujah!!!

It is not over; I have to “finish the race“. To those that except little responsibility, receive greater.. I found that out the hard way.. I am now looking back and, now…. “Remembering the chains. The Chains that kept me bound and not able to achieve all that I can for God and me. If I do not love myself I can not love others and, help them through something that I have been through.. I am here up north now, closer to my parents. They are turning 80 next year. And my Mom is ill, and although she would not always admit it, she needs me and I need to be needed. I need her and my Dad.. I don’t want any regrets in life, I have none but, I am not about to start.. Let’s just say at this point in my career; I am most appreciative to have a job. I am blessed to have a roof over my head and bills paid and food on the table and by which my food bills for the month is now cut 75%. I do not live for food any more. I live to live life… I am not held captive by my short comings any longer.. I have Been Freed!!!

Note; I am here for anyone that wants to know more about all of this. Message me on Facebook or e-mail me..

Love all of you that where there for me from the beginning to now.. .  Thank you for YOUR Love and support. God Bless you all!!! In Jesus’ name..

Riverwalk Restaurant, In Tin City, Naples' Florida.

                                                       A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

Riverwalk Restaurant

A Restaurant at Tin City

Naples’ , FL

“Howdy ya’al“, I thought since I was traveling to the south this time, that I would appropriately walk the walk and talk the talk.. Give you that warm southern hospitality. You know, “When in Rome” (-:

This trip to Florida was particularly special to me.. It was a mix of business and pleasure. Mostly pleasure.. As you know or might not know.. I have in the last 16 months lost a total so far of 210 lbs.. Yes, very exciting and it is a new life for me. I have literally dropped 3 people from my body ..LOL …I have been offer a new chance in life and, I took it.. Grab the bull by the horns and took a ride of my life.. It was not easy to say the least.. But, I now have this new life style. I have not give up on myself and better yet, I have not given up trying new foods and I am learning new ways and techniques of doing foods.

Which brings me to this Hot Spot in Naples’, FL. The Riverwalk Restaurant is on the water front of Downtown Naples’. Right in the center of the Marina. You sit down in their no walls café and over look all the boats and jet skiing happening in the marina and out in the open waters. I love this. I grew up with having boats, fishing and claming.

As I sat down and enjoyed the scenery, I looked over the menu and, they offered a fantastic selection of items. I was looking to try something that Wowed me. I found it.. It was the

Cuban Mahi Melt, pan seared Mahi~ Mahi with olive oil, pressed with jack cheese, roasted tomato and smoked bacon on Cuban bread with a dill pickle & mustard sauce served with black beans and rice…

People, I am telling you right now that it, was the best Fish/Melt sandwich that I have ever eaten.. I was in 7^th heaven on this one.. The combination of the jack cheese perfectly cooked Mahi.. You can see and tell that they took the fish off the flame just before it turned white.. That way you ensure it to be soft and moist when it gets to your guest.. Then they placed the Mahi on the Cuban bread with jack cheese… ( Now it is just starting to get exciting) and what it tasted like to me. They took the time to roast the tomato, instead of just putting a plain tomato on. That impressed me.. Then…… There was the mustard sauce. The combination with all 3 was “off the hook” as Guy Fieri would say.. I would say, It was the bomb.. Cool beans, Far out, DUDE, Like DUDE…. total awesome….I am still old school..

Now, I know a lot of people up and down the east coast and, now a few out in Central and the west coast.. I do believe that this would be a interest to you to come and experience not only Tin City and the Riverwalk.. But, Naples and southwest Florida as a whole. There is so much to do here and it is “Paradise“.. Yes, you might have been to Florida before but, I guarantee it was mostly commercial and you have not seen what Florida is all about until you come to Sarasota down to Naples’ Florida.. It is much more relaxing, enjoyable and memorable..

Now here is the site to which you can explore the journey.. And you are going to love it..

http://www.riverwalktincity.com/Menus.aspx

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Amada's, By Jose Garces'

Amada’s

By Jose Garces’. Iron Chef; America

This site ~ This Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you and place a permanent smile on your face.…

　

Hello ya’al

Today’s journey was particularly special to me. One, It was Jose Garces’ Restaurant called Amada’s and two, It was a style of cousin that I have not sampled before, and sampling it was.. It is a Spanish Tapas service style of cousin. Ta~pas meaning.
Small Spanish savory dishes, typically served with drinks at a bar
Tapas is the name of a wide variety of appetizers, or snacks, in Spanish cuisine. They may be cold (such as mixed olives and cheese) or warm (such as chopitos, which are battered, fried baby squid).

I had a friend with me and as we entered, to the time that we left. I felt like I was being greeted and served by family.. There was a lot of warmth and sincere love of what they were there to do.. I was grateful to be a part of it.. We called in for our table and, I would say that is the best thing to do.. Although we had to sit at the Bar for a short period, they made it a joy to be there. Starting with very a pleasant, Chipper and welcoming young beautiful lady behind the Bar. My friend was unable to serve an ID because, he was, from out of the country and he left his passport at home.. So, she offered on the house,… a homemade Strawberry Lemonade with mint that was outstanding..
As you look around the Restaurant the, architecture held a very warm old world and contemporary feel to it.
We then were lead to our table. I was very happy, because they gave us a table that was next to the open kitchen. I love to people watch.. And seeing my brothers in culinary arms at work so diligently and passionately doing their work is great to see.

Since it was easier and better on me, because of my diet, we split the cost and menu/We order 4 dishes and a dessert , The waiter came with a complimentary starter. That was Flatbread points with, a olive ~caper spread. Very nice start.. For our 1^st Tapas course we started out with ALB ÓNDIGAS Lamb Meatballs & Shaved Manchego with a Foie Gras Sherry sauce… This was so good. The spice between the lamb and the Foie Gras sauce was perfectly balanced. You could taste everything in it, spices, Cheese, mint, Foie Gras. and most of all the lamb

The 2^nd course was GAMBAS CON GARBANZOS Shrimp, Chorizo & Garbanzo Bean Purée . WOW.. I get very excited about these kind of dishes. It is more like Italian/spanish comfort food. That was a bit healthier for you.. Again it was balanced in flavor and everything could be identified on the dish..

The 3^rd course was a TORTILL A ESPAÑOLA Spanish Tortilla & Saffron Aioli. I felt like it had more of a potato dumpling taste to it.. I would say, without the saffron aioli it would have been very bland. It was very unique and different.. I like it. My friend not so much.

The 4^th course was a SETAS Seasonal Wild Mushrooms. It was lined with a basil oil and a wedge of lemon. .This had a very nice fire grilled smoky taste to it, and it was good, but It was a bit too salty for my taste. With the diversity of people in this world, the salt could be a good thing to someone else..



Finally, My Favorite part of the night… dessert… I am a sucker for Chocolate.. And this one takes top billing.. Pastel De Chocolate; Flourless Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Ice Cream & Chocolate-Hazelnut Caramel.. I was bowled over.. The cake seemed to have a little wafer to it, and that with the combination of the mousse and the ice cream.. My eye’s were rolling to the back of my head.. I was totally Wowed from bringing to the end of the dinning experience.. You should have seen me, I was as giddy as a little child.

I am definitely going back to see Amada, by Jose Garces’ . They are located at 217-219 Chestnut Street | Philadelphia PA 19106 | T 215-625-2450 . And the website is..

http://amadarestaurant.com/index.html

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

Philadelphia’s "City Tap House"

Philadelphia’s City Tap House

University City, Walnut St.

　

Today, I just got a new roommate and, I was itching to get out and do something, To do a little taste bud exploration … We set out looking for another Restaurant, but failed to find it. I set back a bit and visited once again a place that I find inviting and unique, to the sports Bar setting…It is called The City Tap Room off of Walnut St. in University City in Philly.40^th and Walnut. Next to Bobbies Burger paradise. You walk in and, the restaurant comes alive to your senses. To the left there is a garden patio that over looks the city. The Bar is about 150ft round. There is an open kitchen to gaze at the Chef’s doing there Chefie thing.. Very Cool.. I am not a big drinker But, I do love to have a good beer that accompanies my meal with some great friends. They have a selection of beers that are brewed right here in Philadelphia.. There are so many style’s and, the names of them sometimes cracks me up… (like Victory Monkey Beer) LOL …

I went this time with my new roommate and was handed the new menu.. They made a few changes. And as far as I can see, they did a great job at it.. I choose a Rib-eye steak on a soft French Baguette rolls. The Steak was sliced nice and thin to enhance the flavor more... It had fine sliced fried onion strings, a fondue Cheese sauce with bourbon and I choose to have the Sweet Potato Fries with a honey mustard bourbon sauce… I coupled that up with a local beer that had a hint of honey/Cherry and a soft amber taste… Outstanding.. This is the second time I have been here and, they have always made my 5 senses come alive and look outside the culinary box.

Smell, Sight, Taste, hearing….LOVE (-:

The staff is always extremely informational and loving.. Is there a better place to go where you find great food, Friends and Game’s to watch on several Big Screen TV’s around the Restaurant. ?! If so let me know, and I will travel there.. The next time I go, I am going to be kicking it… out on the Garden patio…That would be a great spot to have a gathering of Friends and a Family reunion..

Just a note; I did find the original Restaurant I wanted to go. I will tell you about that soon... (-:

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Fairfield County CT.

The Southport Brewing Co

.

　

Today was a journey not only for a great place to visit, but a journey back in time in my career and life.. I was visiting family this 4^th of July weekend and decided to set out and check out my past. The town that I grew up in and a town that built me.. For some reason when you have been away from home for a great length of time, Things seen not only different and still familiar, but smaller… I don’t know what made me think that, but the only thing I could come up with is that we grow in every aspect of our lives. I still may be a kid at heart, but I am matured in many different ways. That I owe to my Mom and Dad. Every time I look in the mirror, I see my Dad and when I speak, I hear my Mom.. If I was my Dad, I would be a “Mini Me” LOL

As I was driving up the post Rd in Fairfield and entered Southport. There is a place that just made me have to stop and check things out.. The Southport Brewing Co. When I 1^st started out in my Culinary career, I work at a place that was called The East Coast Bar and Grill. I walked in and I started to see my past come alive.. I sat at a table that was directly in front of the open kitchen that was there then as well. I could here the chef yelling at me and throwing food at me.. One night, I was cleaning out the fryer and it was a recycling frying. I started to pour the oil back in.. Yeah, maybe you have guessed it already.. I left the spout open and all the oil was on the floor…LOL, only I was not laughing then. They decided to call me Captain, and declared mutiny on me.. They ganged up on me and tided me to the post.. And started singing Yo Ho Ho, with a vat of oil on the floor… They were fun times. It was places like that, that gave me strength to carry on and never give up on myself or anyone else….

When I was working there, there was always a great amount of people coming to eat there. We did about 800 people a night. Many Celebrities visited as well and, one night I remember very clearly and, I’ll never forget this. Paul Newman came in with a group of people and he was there all night.. At the end of my night, I was the only one left in the kitchen and after I finished my cleaning. I looked out into the dinning room and, Paul was standing there looking into the kitchen. I don’t know what came over me but, I stood at attention and saluted Paul.. I was bowled over when I saw him put his 2 feet together and stood at attention and then saluted me… He was such a great man. My Mom worked with him in Easter Seals with the kids.. He had a heart of Gold and it was huge..

Oh yeah, back to the Restaurant at hand.. I ordered the Mahi Mojo sandwich that was on a ciabatta roll with Cajun remoulade dressing, Red Bermuda onions and tomato.. And Sweet potato fries and a half sour pickle on the side.. The sweet potato fries were perfect.. I have not been to many places that were able to succeed at frying the sweet potato. It is sort of an art to do so. Some what like making the perfect fry.. When the potatoes are 1^st cut, you soak them in water overnight and then strain. Then blanch them, When you blanch, do not fry and have color to it, just until they are soft and a little limp. Place on paper sheet trays and dry.. This means the starch is out. Then when the fries are cool. Finish in the fryer until a darker color to the sweet potatoes, and golden brown to the bakers. You will get a crunch on the outside and meaty and soft in the center.. Yum, Yum. They have achieved the perfect fry..

The Sandwich was tasty, but the cooks burnt my roll and dried out my Mahi.. I am not going to give up on them. I will give them at least 2 of more chances to see if there is any consistency…The service was great, they were very attentive to me and always smiled. I always believe in 2^nd or more chances. So I do recommend going out to the Southport Brewing Co. and having an experience. There is much to look at with all the Beer brewing going on., and watching the Chef’s cook.
Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

Today is a day of new journey’s. Being a transplant myself, coming from the beaches of southwest Florida, to the big city streets of Philly is, an experience all on it’s own.. Walking down the city streets looking at the largeness of everything around you can be a bit overwhelming at times but, as the days go on, and you get out and explore, you begin to have a little fun with it.. I took myself down Market St. Under and through Historic City Hall, and continue on Market St. East. To the corner of 12^th St. I found myself looking at this huge guitar spinning around, advertising the Hard Rock Café of Philly. And the words under it gave me a loving welcome, ‘Love All, Serve All”

I Then, wiped the tears from my eyes… lol... and continued up 12^th St. to The Reading Terminal Market… http://www.readingterminalmarket.org/merchants/category/restaurants

I have to tell ya as a Chef, these are place’s that you only dream of visiting. As you walk through the front doors, you instantly begin to sense that you are in another country even another World….. My mouth was salivating and my jaw dropped… I have never been to New Orleans…Yet it kind of had a Marti Gras feeling to it.. I can imagine that this could be the close’s thing to it… It is all set up as if you are walking down the streets of each country that you visit… You can feel the excitement and joy of everyone in the place… You are not just eating food, you are taking a “Journey through each country you visit.. There are Restaurants such as;

Delilah’s at the Terminal.. She is the gal that won the best Mac and Cheese recipe in the country, and beat Bobby Flay on the “Throwdown with Bobby Flay” of Course they have not tasted my Mom’s; “Mrs. E’s Mac and Cheese” yet.. There‘s a reason for that, No Contest ….Mom’s is the best… I will have to try Delilah’s though, just for curiosity’s sake….. On the other side of the square, there is Beck’s Cajun Café. I was greeted with the warmest welcome, and the biggest smile.. The Girl behind the counter saw me drooling, and offered me a taste of Their Etouffee....WOW, It is out of this world… My eyes rolled behind my head in glee…Then a couple clicks down the street… you find yourself in the Middle East.. At Kamal’s Middle Eastern Specialty’s. with Indian and Pakistani cuisine.  I love a good kick around in the mouth and tongue once in a while...I crave Middle Eastern Food.. I got more then I ever expected.. As Guy Fieri would say, It was most definitely “Off the Hook“…

There is something for every love, style and taste… Vegetarian, Seafood, Meat Markets, Cheese Market… Tokyo Sushi Bar, Beer Garden, Chocolates By. Mueller… and Farmers Markets….
Now if you go, You will find out that you can not just visit once. You would have to go everyday for a year to taste all the lavish and delectable foods. You will also find that, if you plan it out right. You will finish up at a few places like Chocolates By. Mueller and Termini Brother’s Bakery. Being on my health kick and all, I started to get a little dizzy walking by those shops.. I had to pick up the pace and even start running away.. (-: I’m Just sayin…

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love, Style and Taste of food around you...
God Bless
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

A Journey of Love, Style and Taste

By Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser

Philadelphia, USA

Let me start out by introducing myself. I am Chef Eddie and, I have been in the culinary business for 25 years now. I started out in the late 80’s as a Prep-cook/ Dishwasher. I found the Restaurant industry fascinating and, I wanted and needed to know more. It was at that point, my passion and love for cooking took off like a rocket.. My Mom and my Aunt Hopie, where the one’s that inspired and nurtured me into the culinary world. It all started with a simple Philly Style Cheese steak hoagie. Then My Aunt Hopie, challenged me in a Thanksgiving turkey contest… Although I won, I knew better. Aunt Hopie was scheming. This was her way of trying to make me think that I had what it took to become a Great Chef one day… I miss her a great deal. She is in Heaven with Jesus now and still, I can her say,” I don’t want to hear those words…”I can’t do it.  If I hear it again.. I’ll kick you in the You’ll do it.” LOL. My Mom was the same way, blood runs thick in the Elsasser- Lindeman-Sedlak family rivers.
Then becoming a Executive Chef and owning my own Personal Chef Service was in the latter years, Aunt Hopie and, my Mom knew I could do it. I just needed a kick in the butt. With Chef. Eddie’s Personal Chef service, I wanted to bring my love of cooking and creating foods to the private and public sector.. This also allowed me to work closely with my clients and learn for myself what they wanted and needed of me and providing them with an experience in their homes and lives. We sat down and picked out the creations that they wanted to have prepared. I went out to shop for them in the local seafood, Farmers, and Meat markets that were in their area. I then brought the food back to their home or business and prepared it. Most time's I would package the meals and place them in the Refrigerator or freezer providing them meals for a day thru a week at a time.. There were many occasions that I would serve them as a family or a dinner reception that they were hosting.. In the time that I had provided this service. I have worked for a few celebrities.
( i.e.) Sports, Hollywood and the music industry).. and many single and large families..
I am currently working at the finest luxury Hotel Company in the world. The Ritz-Carlton. I have never worked with a more loving, creative and talented group of people in one company before.. I have worked along side the most talented and articulate minded chef’s in the world. All at my finger tips. I am so grateful and honored to have this availability to this kind of education.. I believe that one will never stop learning until the day his brain is 6 feet under…then with the Lord..
This site ~ Blog is your connection into my world, and the journey, love, style and taste of the culinary creations that are around us and abroad. I am hoping by the words that I write about different places I go, will give you access and bring not only a flow of salivating to your mouth but, refuge and tastes that will captivate you… Do to the high demand of the things that go on around us that sometimes are out of our control, I will make every effort in up-dating this site …
Up to 2 times a month…

Now, Until we meet again~~ Many journey's into the Love Style and taste of food around you...
Chef. Eddie A. Elsasser