Tuesday, February 18, 2020

Vacation Beyond Chicago

It's been 8 years since I've posted anything, and while this isn't totally food related or even about the greater Chicagoland area, it's new (and not edited as of 2.18.20).

The first time our family visited Perdido Key, was two months after my (our) mom had passed. There was definitely some guilt attached to leaving, but I discovered was very necessary. This past Christmas break marked the forth time my family has visited Perdido Key - with every visit, we become more comfortable and it gets better every time. Typically, our family drives to and from the Pensacola/Gulf Shores area and from Chicagoland, it takes approximately 16 hours one way. 

This year, we left early on a Friday morning, and instead of stopping in Nashville for the night, we stopped at the Zoo for two hours and then continued driving until we were passed Birmingham, Alabama. (If you aren't aware, next to Missouri, Alabama has the countries worst drivers).

Circling back to the Nashville Zoo, my family tends to visit zoos in most towns and cities that we visit, my two boys (7 and 9) have been into animals since they were toddlers and are card-carrying members of the "Kratts Brothers Club", so zoos/aquariums are wonderful places for us to get out and stretch the legs for a bit. Nashville Zoo was no exception, and as I continue to think about it, while not my favorite zoo, it is the best zoo I feel I've had the pleasure of visiting, and I'm grateful, both of my boy were able to experience everything it had to offer. Since the Nashville Zoo isn't why I'm writing this post, I'll do my best to keep this brief, but the Nashville Zoo was extremely clean, with friendly staff. The animal exhibits were modern, updated, large, and well-kept with natural habitats for their animals, who looked happy. Food was moderately priced and not too "in your face", nor were their souvenirs (I only saw one shop - which was located at the front entrance). While we didn't stay for their "Zoo Lights", my wife and I both agreed we'd go back to see them lit; and honestly, I can't wait to go back!

Onward and yupward to the Gulf Coast! 

We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express in Pelham, Alabama. There was a Pizza Hut, Starbucks, Walmart and Dunkin' Donuts within walking distance, so the town has everything one would need on a road-trip. The hotel was typical, except the pool was in a separate building which was a little strange. Including our stop in Nashville, it took us 12 hours to get to Pelham.

Upon waking up on Saturday morning, we took out time getting out of town, since a.) we were passed Birmingham, and b.) our check in at the "Home Away" Condo was 4:00pm. That being said, we were all anxious to get to the coast knowing that our first stop would be our favorite restaurant in the United States, "the Gulf". Know for their Grouper Sandwiches and spectacular views, when I retire, this is where I'll tend bar. I'll be happy to do it for free.  Nestled under the "Perdido Pass Causeway", it specializes in fresh seafood and local beers (Lil' Smack IPA by 
Chandeleur Island Brewing is tops in our book, and pairs perfectly with the Fried Grouper). Our kids play under palm trees, in the sand whilst we enjoy the food, company, and views; whether its families playing on the beach across the water, boats coming in and out Bayou Saint John, or Bottlenose Dolphins playing in the tidewaters, there's always something fascinating to watch. Dining at the Gulf is pure bliss; even on it's worst day, I can't think of any other place I'd rather be.
The Gulf 

The beaches. I'm a big boy, and honestly, I've never liked the beach. But there's something magical about Perdido Key State Park. It's a state park so on paper, it should be fairly busy or crowded, but in the four weeks (over four years) we've spent in Perdido, I bet I've seen less than 100 people total on this beach. It's expansive, private, and quiet; everything I'm looking for in a beach vacation, and like the Gulf restaurant, there's always something to see... Portuguese Man of Wars can wash up on the beach, Ghost Crabs, Ospreys, Great Blue Herons, Dolphin, the Blue Angels are just a few things to watch while lounging and listening to the waves continuously rolling in. Other activities include going for a long walk, looking for shells, tossing a frisbee or dropping a line in the water and see what you reel in! We caught a mullet this year. As previously stated, I've never been one to enjoy the beach, but the lure of the Gulf of Mexico at Perdido has me considering my stance. While I've yet to spend much time in the water, it's a lovely place to spend the day, and I'd gladly trade sunburn and sand in my shoes for the memories created.  

The forts. There's a great deal of local and national history that exists in the pre-Civil War/Civil War era forts of the Pensacola/Gulf Shores area and I'm grateful for the opportunity to take kids to visit and engage with all of it. It's living history and we're getting to a point where I can meet my kids head on when they have questions. Not previously equipped with the answers, their questions keep us on our toes and even allows us to reflect about the lives of all who've crossed the thresholds of the doors, their lives and times and even the climate of our Nation today. Thus far, we've visited three forts: Fort Morgan, the largest, Fr. Barrancas, closest to the Pensacola Naval Base and Air Museum, and Ft. Gaines on Dauphin Island. While not an unexpected "enjoyable" experience, visiting one of the five area forts is an inexpensive unique half-day trip, and a great change of pace if you're looking to wander away from the beach.
Fort Gaines

Dauphin Island: Speaking of a "change of pace", this trip we took the island hopper ferry to visit Dauphin Island. While cold, and windy that was arguably the most interest part of our trip (because it was so unlike anything we've ever done)! It's a seven mile trip that took about 35 minutes. You're allowed to get out of the cars and stand on the catwalk to take in the sights. The first one that comes into view on Dauphin Island was Ft. Gaines. But before we made our way to learn about the Battle of Mobile Bay, we visited the Dauphin Island Sea Lab: a local aquarium. (Living 70 miles west of Chicago, we have pretty easy access to the Shedd Aquairum and visit it annually). The Sea Lab was charming and full of local inhabitants. The docents may have been the best part of the visit. Their knowledge, pride and enthusiasm for their state, island and aquarium made for an enjoyable visit. a few highlights here: learning about the "Bonnethead Shark" and finding a Flounder fish, and Great Blue Heron stuffed animals in their gift shop. Sidenote, I'm a sucker for gift shops. I like buying Christmas ornaments of the places we visit, AND I enjoy looking for unique stuffed animals for the kids.

While the kids drive the vacation and what we do, they really don't get a say in what/where we eat (mostly because they eat hamburgers, fries and chicken tenders). So my wife and I dictate where we go and we've landed on a few places that we wish we had more frequent access to... the Gulf had its own paragraph so I won't prattle on, but it's a remarkable dining experience. Hub Stacey's at the Point is another gem, or should I say dive? Either way, it's bar food done well... Beer, wings, burgers, and fries (Causeway IPA on draught) with local musicians meandering their way through cover sets
sunset just outside of Hub Stacey's
(mercifully, I've never heard any Jimmy Buffet songs). Perdido Bay seafood is where we grab our fresh, local seafood when we're cooking from our residence. THE STEAMED SPICY RUBY REDS ARE A MUST!!!!!  I hate to admit it, but the Key Lime Pie from Publix is arguably my favorite dessert. The food at the Hangout is overpriced and leaves a lot to be desired, but it's a fun place to have a meal with young kids; opt for an appetizer and some drinks and let the kids play. Florabama Yacht Club is entertaining, especially the graffiti on the men's bathroom walls... The triple tail with jambalaya is divine and their hashpuppies are unparalleled! There's a reason Florabama has been open for over 50 years. They give their diners what they want! That being said, the "Bushwhacker" is the most overrated aspect of visiting this region of the gulf coast, save the $10 and take a pass when a staff member asks if you want one while dining out.

Pensacola Naval Base. It was closed on this visit due to recent unfortunate events that took place. But it's a great way to spend half a day indoors when it's raining. It's free, with the opportunity to buy into "experiences" or movies, but there's no need to spend any money other than at the donation box! If you're kids are into planes, jets, helicopters boats, or space travel, this is the museum for them. The Naval Museum is interactive and  hands on, and to some degree a bit overwhelming. While you can spend all day here, there's no need. if the kids start acting out, you can leave and visit Ft. Barrancas (right around the corner) or Big Bertha, the tallest lighthouse on the Gulf of Mexico (it's REALLY high up and scary windy at the top). Dollar for dollar, one can't beat visiting the Pensacola Naval Station with their family. 

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

The Bakeries of Dekalb County

Chapter 1 - the Neighborhood Bakery and Deli



There is no more gratifying smell in the world than wafts of fresh baked goods. In all corners of Dekalb there are generous auras that drift and float, beckoning growling and grumbling bellies to indulge. All bakeries offer extraordinary treats for any occasion, meeting, or brunch and the tour begins in Dekalb, at the Neighborhood Bakery, which serves up an array of paramount baked goods:
With a generous and intense selection of cheese, fruit and nut fillings, the coffee cakes are fresh, buttery, and flaky but not overly sweet. If unable to choose just one, full coffee cake, there are plenty of hand held delights such as the almond or cheese claw and cherry turnover that equal their big brother, just more accessible and compact.
Surrounded by a tender, and perfect crust, the peach pie is summer in a bite: tart, juicy and sweet – simply put: voluptuous.
Mind the cliché, but the kolacky, which must make an appearance at all family gatherings, are exactly like grandma used to make and will harken any nibbler with Eastern European heritage back to Christmas Eve. The raspberry, cheese and apricot filled pockets disappear long before other desserts are introduced, but the dusting of powdered sugar upon upper lips spills the secret of who has satiated the need for a bite of Poland. Making good kolacky is an art form, and the Neighborhood Bakery is to kolacky what Edward Hopper is to art: traditional, refined, unassuming and deep, though presented in a bite size masterpiece.

2205 PLEASANT STREET UNIT 1
Dekalb, IL 60115
North of the Dekalb Airport
On Pleasant Street
Phone: (815)748-7707
Fax: (815-787-7943

The Neighborhood Bakery is very moderately priced and accepts credit/debit cards, however, the hours are short (especially for a bakery), open from 7am – 3pm weekdays and 8am-2pm Saturdays (closed Sunday and Monday).

Sunday, June 3, 2012

Lothson's Karry Out



From the gentle hum of exhaust vents, to the snap and sizzle of chicken bathing in its oil, setting foot into Lothson’s Fried Chicken isn’t stepping into a restaurant from a bygone era, rather, it is crossing that threshold (for the first time in decades) to grandmas old house. The faux leather couch and fake wood paneling are welcoming reminders of the soothing charms that once existed at the 2 flat near 47th and Damen. Despite being a carryout only diner, Lothson’s comfort is so palpable, guests could close their eyes and each of the (remaining) senses would be touched, thus rekindling that yearning for Grandma’s house.

There is a reason why Lothson’s has been cooking fried chicken since 1949; generously portioned flavorful, crunchy and moist, every ideal of what fried chicken should be.

It is the kind of fried chicken that beckons in the middle of the night - which shouldn’t be confused with waking and eating a snack because one is hungry in the middle of the night, but waking up solely to eat that one leftover piece (the one tucked behind the gallon of milk, hidden from family). Then upon licking fingers clean from a thoroughly satisfying, and bellying filling morsel, return to the marshmallow pillow cloud of a bed and doze off smiling, thankful for the foresight to save a piece of fried chicken just for that feeling.

When families traveled along a highway, sixty years ago, to have a good time instead of trying to make time, Lothson’s was there on the Lincoln Highway. Though removed from its seat on the major thoroughfare, it’s still there on Rt. 38 with its constant hum of patrons: young, old and older.

With only two cooks since 1949, Lothson’s methodic and attuned delivery of fried chicken is a constant for those who “know” and for those who seek fried chicken perfection. While perch is listed on the menu, the large, red, neon sign announces “CHICKEN” to Dekalb, Sycamore, Cortland, and Malta – there is no need to deviate from what it declares. Chicken, slaw, fries and rolls. Lothsons’s history is vast and rich, just like the fried chicken dinner.

Lothson’s Karry Out
644 E. Lincoln Hwy
Dekalb, Il. 60115
(815) 756-4303

CARRY OUT ONLY

Thursday, April 5, 2012

South Moon BBQ - Hinckley, Il.


My aspirations of one day becoming a champion pitmaster came to an abrupt end with the first bite of the pulled pork sandwich from South Moon BBQ (Hinckley, Il.). There aren’t enough adjectives to describe this titillating sandwich. Subtly smoked and sauced with a deft hand, this behemoth might be the most memorable BBQ experience I’ve encountered in my 34 years*. It is the perfect union of fresh baked bun, flavorful, tender and juicy pork kissed with a deep, rich St. Louis style sauce and complimented perfectly by any of four sides that makes for one hearty meal.

The reason why new "country" restaurants, like South Moon, are so good is because they know they have to be; that there's no margin for error in what they do. Traditional/cultural/ethnic small town restaurants have to properly articulate and refine their craft to gain and maintain business, to make the diner’s drive and experience completely worthwhile, so THOSE diners share their emprise with others. Decent city (Chicago and suburban) restaurants are a dime a dozen, and any given person will choose “this Thai to that Thai” because of personal preference, but it’s all fairly similar. Country ones don’t have that luxury; South Moon BBQ is no exception and the fare delivered takes nothing for granted. I suppose being directly between my home and work doesn't hurt their chances of my appreciation, but the food is remarkable. The staff is polite, helpful, and charming, treating each customer like lifelong friends. The menu at South Moon is concise and to the point as well as being fairly priced.

The drawback at South Moon are more or less backhanded compliments: I wish there was a real seating area instead of a few small tables. I’d definitely enjoy spending more time with “Pork Chop” and his family shooting the breeze while admiring the kitschy wall décor (originally packaged action figures including: KISS, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, etc…).

146 E Lincoln Hwy
Hinckley, IL 60520
(815) 286-9227
http://www.southmoonbbq.com/

*Save for Carson’s Ribs, because going there always marked a special event or Russell’s BBQ which is a nostalgic, familial past time.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Naf Naf Grill

The most delicious single bite of food in the Chicago land area exists in Naperville. The flavors, textures, and layers of the falafel sandwich found at Naf Naf Mediterranean Grill perfectly marry to create a simply divine, yet foodgasmic morsel. The handmade pita pillows nestle a handsomely dressed (with chili paste, tahini and pickled vegetables) falafel. By itself, the falafel is a delectable bite: warm, savory, spicy and crunchy - tucked gently under its pita blanket; anxiously awaiting like kids on Christmas Day, to erupt from slumber and celebrate a joyous occasion. Simply put, it is a profound eating experience.
Located off of I-88 and the Naperville Rd. exit, Naf Naf is very accessible, has ample parking, and is reasonably priced. Since it moved locations, it is seemingly constructed more for the lunch crowd than a family dinner; which shouldn’t be a deterrent as families are welcome and there is plenty of space to sit and eat, but the restaurant does lack character.
The sterility is easily overlooked with all of the singing and dancing from the falafel sandwich taking place on the taste-buds which is why Naf Naf Mediterranean Grill keeps me coming back – it makes all falafel sandwiches in the greater Chicago land area pedestrian. The average cost is about $10 per person.

Naf Naf Grill
1739 Freedom Drive, Suite 109
Naperville, IL. 60563
(630)904-7200
http://www.nafnafgrill.com/

Thursday, August 19, 2010

nice rack

so this is the first post. i love pork. that's all you need to know for now.