I Just Want To Eat! 3/18/25 I Just Want To Eat! 3/18/25

L'Adresse Bryant Park

Proposing modern American cuisine, L’Adresse is definitely a restaurant to keep in mind. This post is about several visits over time so know that the menu changes often and you may not find some of the dishes we had when we went, but at least you can get a feel of the place. The only two dishes that are always on the menu are their truffle burger ($42) and their “burger with cheese” ($29) or cheeseburger. Both are good, but I definitely prefer the cheeseburger that is anyway their signature burger; I thought at the beginning that they called it “burger with cheese” to make it sound fancier, but it might more be because they are putting lots of cheese on top of their tasteful patty. Not that the truffle burger was not good: the patty is very good, but the sriracha aioli they served at the time (it is now truffle aioli) overpowered the truffle a bit. Talking about truffle, each time we went, Jodi was looking forward their truffle and mushroom flatbread ($45) that was offered as a special and that I admit was really good, topped with a generous amount of truffle. For vegetarian dishes, they also have a wild mushroom risotto, made with king trumpet, oyster mushroom, shimeji, Parmigiano Reggiano, and chives, but, although good, it was a bit soupy. I also just saw that they dropped their seafood pasta near that were squid ink linguine with little neck clams, shrimp and mussels that was amazing, and their house made focaccia that we had we gochujang butter. Too bad.

Seafood pasta nera at L'Adresse Bryant Park

Housemade focaccia at L'Adresse Bryant Park

Truffle flatbread at L'Adresse Bryant Park

Desserts are not to be ignored there. Their Syrniki ($25) that are cottage cheese pancakes are out of this world. The first bite, you do not know if you like them or not, but then you become addicted. They also have the chocolate envy, a chocolate and almond cake, made with caramel, a dark chocolate mousse, gianduja, and feuillatine. If you love hazelnut and chocolate, this is for you.

I should mention the drinks. I love their chocolate espresso martini or their paper plane.

Chocolate espresso martini at L'Adresse Bryant Park

Although they changed their menu, I always get a good meal at L’Adresse. I just saw that they offer a beef Wellington right now, so, I might go back very soon…

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the log, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

L’Adresse - 1065 Ave of the Americas, New York, NY 10018

I Just Want To Eat! 3/13/25 I Just Want To Eat! 3/13/25

La Maison Tachon, French pastries

I recently received an email from Sarah Tachon, the proud owner of La Maison Tachon, an online pastry shop that has a pop up in Greenpoint, at Oak and Iron on Franklin street, every Saturday, from 10am until sold out. So, we decided to check it out and spend some time in Brooklyn, our first stop being a tasting of freshly made goods. Classicaly trained as a pastry chef, Sarah Tachon worked for Dominique Ansel and at Maman, two references that are not to ignore. She started her own business last April, with a couple of coffee shops in Brooklyn serving her products that are made daily in a communal kitchen with natural ingredients, some surprising like her use of date sugar for some of her baked goods. Sarah gets her inspiration from classic French pastries, but will sometimes give a modern twist, like the chocolate and vanilla financier that was my favorite that day, but still branching out to American classics like the hazelnut chocolate brownie that was made with sorghum flour, making it gluten free, but, she would not recommend it as such as it is baked in the same facility as items with baked with gluten. The brownie was fudgy, slightly crispy on the outside. Delicious! Another favorite is their sables bretons that are butter cookies with a hint of salt that make them perfect with a cup of coffee, the salt enhancing the flavor of the coffee. Crumbly and buttery, they are a must have and the only items not sold by unit. Overall, everything was good and all the items on display were mouth watering. I hope Sarah will continue to expand so it will not just be a pop up, her baked good being worth trying. Know that she also makes cakes and tarts that can be ordered on her website.

Chocolate and vanilla financier at La Maison Tachon

Hazelnut chocolate brownie at La Maison Tachon

Enjoy (I did)!!

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La Maison Tachon - www.lamaisontachon.com

I Just Want To Eat! 3/10/25 I Just Want To Eat! 3/10/25

Does Funny Face Bakery make the best chocolate chip cookie in the City?

When I received an email from Sarah Silverman asking me to try what she believes is the best chocolate chip cookie in the city, I was curious because I heard about Funny Face Bakery, the business she started in April 2016, famous for its cookies that display famous faces that are hand made, admiring for sure the craft that is quite impressive as you can easily recognize who is portrayed. But I never heard about their cookies and I admit that since City Bakery disappeared few years ago, I feel like a chocolate chip cookie orphan…So, we met Sarah at her location on Lafayette street. As we entered, my nose got filled with the appetizing smell of freshly baked cookies. The place looks fun, with a bunch of cookies with faces displayed in frames as you would display your family, showcasing an incredible craft. Sarah explained that she had the idea to make these cookies two weeks before opening her first location in the west village, her first face cookies representing the four 2016 presidential candidates and got the idea to expand to artists and other famous people, hiring a team to keep up with the increasing demand. You can even commission your own custom cookie for $22 a piece and a minimum order of 12 per design. But that is not why we were there! We were there for their chocolate chip cookie. Remember: are these the best in the city? So, Sarah came back with a box of 4 cookies that smelled amazing: a chocolate chip, a s’mores, a funfetti and a double chocolate. That is the way I would order them in order of preference, the chocolate chip one being superb: crunchy on the outside, chewy, delightfully buttery, with lots of chocolate chips, without being too sweet. This is not the kind of cookie where you end up in a sugar coma after a couple of bites and they are definitely using good quality chocolate. The cookie dough is fantastic and the base to their other cookies, the s’mores one being my second favorite: also not too sweet, I love the crunchiness of the graham crackers and gooeyness of the marshmallow that sit on top. This is the first s’mores cookie that I have tried that is not overly sweet. I liked the funfetti one, but admit that I was less impressed by the double chocolate one that was my least favorite of all.

Sarah Silverman at Funny Face Bakery NYC

Billy Eilish cookie at Funny Face Bakery NYC

Timothee Chalamet cookie at Funny Face Bakery NYC

Kris Jenner cookie at Funny Face Bakery NYC

Chocolate chip cookie at Funny Face Bakery NYC

Funfetti cookie at Funny Face Bakery NYC

Double chocolate cookie at Funny Face Bakery NYC

So, to answer this post question: Does Funny Face Bakery make the best chocolate chip cookie in the City? I would say yes! Great cookie dough, lots of good quality chocolate and for once, a cookie that is not too sweet so you can enjoy it without falling asleep, make this cookie the best I had since City Bakery closed! And I bet it is even better when warm, fresh from the oven. I highly recommend it.

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Funny Face Bakery - 319 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012

I Just Want To Eat! 3/6/25 I Just Want To Eat! 3/6/25

City Diner in Jersey City, NJ

Located few blocks from the Exchange Place Path Station, City Diner is a modern version of an American diner: vibrant vibe, cocktails and elevated diner menu make this place stand out. It’s not a cocktail I wanted to try there, but their milkshake, especially their Nutella one ($9), being a huge fan of the famous hazelnut spread. Unfortunately, it was a bit light on it if it was not for the blob that they put on the whipped cream. We both got a sandwich. Me, the Nashville chicken sandwich ($17) that was a crispy fried chicken in Nashville spices, with cheddar, coleslaw, and a roasted garlic aioli, squeezed between a brioche bread. It was pretty good, but I thought the chicken would be crispier and spicier. Jodi opted for their Boursin grilled cheese ($15) . Boursin is a French cheese spread made of garlic and herbs that seems to be popular these days. Also made with cheddar and sourdough, it could have had more cheese in it. Both came with fries that were just ok.
Fortunately, their chocolate pot de creme ($8) made it worth the meal: it was creamy and chocolatey.
Overall, the food was good, but not exceptional, like what you would get in a diner, and with prices that were reasonable. So, if I was in the area and was looking for a spot for a bite, I would go there.

Nutella milkshake at City Diner in Jersey City, NJ

chocolate pot de creme at City Diner in Jersey City, NJ

Boursin grilled cheese at City Diner in Jersey City, NJ

Nashville fried chicken sandwich at City Diner in Jersey City, NJ

Enjoy (I did)!

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City Diner - 31 Montgomery St, Jersey City, NJ 07302

I Just Want To Eat! 3/3/25 I Just Want To Eat! 3/3/25

DoneRight Döner Kebab in Hoboken, NJ

A few weeks ago, DoneRight Döner Kebab opened in Hoboken’s busy Washington street, replacing Brooklyn Dumpling Shop that was short lived. There, you can get your sandwich in a delicious bread that they cook every two days in their central kitchen, called Gobit, a Turkish version of pita, that is amazing. You can get sandwiches, wraps or a rice box with lamb, chicken (you can get a mix of lamb and chicken) and falafel, the meat slowly cooked on a rotating rotisserie. Their mix DoneRight with lamb, chicken, pickles, mixed green salad, hot pepper, parsley, white sauce and hot sauce is pretty good, but I admit that I prefer the Gold Standard that has fries in it (I love sandwiches with fries or Cali burrito). They are fairly generous with meat, and each bite is an explosion of flavors. Falafel are a good vegetarian option. They make them fresh (they did not have any last Saturday, still working through the kinks of their central kitchen, as they just opened a couple of weeks ago). These falafel are superb: crispy on the outside and not dry, we tried them in their Falafel DoneRight sandwich and as hot appetizer, served with hummus. They also have a small side salad that is a good complement if you want to get a bunch of appetizers. With my sandwich, I got their yogurt drink that is always good to tame the spiciness of the hot pepper in the sandwich or the hot sauce that is not as spicy as I thought.

Chicken at DoneRight Döner Kebab in Hoboken, NJ

Yogurt drink at DoneRight Döner Kebab in Hoboken, NJ

Gold standard sandwich at DoneRight Döner Kebab in Hoboken, NJ

Mix sandwich at DoneRight Döner Kebab in Hoboken, NJ

Falafel at DoneRight Döner Kebab in Hoboken, NJ

Falafel sanwich at DoneRight Döner Kebab in Hoboken, NJ

One thing I should mention is their desserts: they have a quite large selection of Mediterranean desserts, like baklava, kadayif rolls, pistachio kadayif, pistachio pudding, or even Dubai chocolate and, surprisingly in a way, the very popular tres leches. One dessert I really liked was their chocolate baklava that I never had before: not overly sweet, decadent, it would have been perfect with a Turkish coffee (they do not have any).

Baklava at DoneRight Döner Kebab in Hoboken, NJ

DoneRight Döner Kebab is. a great addition to the Hoboken food scene, competing a bit with Mamoun Falafel, and with a bar crowd that will definitely find its way there late at night as they are open until 3am Fridays and Saturdays and, let’s be honest, they offer the perfect food to fill a stomach after few drinks. I love the sandwiches, my favorite being the Gold Standard, that is something I would definitely crave. And the fact that they have all these desserts is like a cherry on the cake, as I always like a good dessert after a good meal.

Enjoy (I really did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

DoneRight Döner Kebab - 514 Washington St, Hoboken, NJ 07030

I Just Want To Eat! 2/27/25 I Just Want To Eat! 2/27/25

Buddy's in Jersey City, NJ

Buddy’s in Jersey City is a place to know. Located near Exchange Place, we discovered this busy restaurant in the summer and came back for brunch. Their brunch menu is simply exciting. The first time we went there, they had buffalo cauliflower that was a great vegetarian option, being crispy and spicy, the combination of the hot sauce pairing well with the blue cheese. More classic is their Buddy’s breakfast that consists of three eggs and your choice of pancakes, French toast, and bacon. We opted for the French toast that were really good, custardy with a slight crunch on the outside. The eggs were also perfectly made, not dry at all. But my favorite is their chicken and waffles. First of all, it is big with its four pieces of chicken. The chicken was crispy on the outside and still moist, while the waffle was nicely chewy, with hints of vanilla coming through. If you are more on the lighter side, they offer salads, my favorite being the Summer time one with watermelon and feta that they proposed at the time, better than their couscous salad that lacked flavor (the falafel were good but they could have served a side of tahini or tzatziki with them).

French toast at Buddy's in Jersey City, NJ

Buffalo cauliflower at Buddy's in Jersey City, NJ

Eggs and bacon at Buddy's in Jersey City, NJ

Couscous salad at Buddy's in Jersey City, NJ

Chicken and waffle salad at Buddy's in Jersey City, NJ

Of course they have drinks, like their espresso martini that was well balanced or their Magic Apple, a mocktail made with Ritual whisky, apple juice and cinnamon, a good alternative to a spirited drink. However, they have a hot chocolate that is a bit light on the cocoa...

Espresso martini at Buddy's in Jersey City, NJ

Magic apple at Buddy's in Jersey City, NJ

Overall, Buddy's offers an interesting brunch menu that is worth a trip to Jersey City. Especially their chicken and waffles that is sublime.

enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Buddy's - 247 Washington St, Jersey City, NJ 07302

I Just Want To Eat! 2/24/25 I Just Want To Eat! 2/24/25

Le Rivage, French restaurant in NYC, NY

My last visit at Le Rivage was more than 10 years ago. I never went back because of our experience there was not great. So, when I received an invite, I was a bit surprised, but excited to try the menu from Chef David Cámara, who took over the kitchen in May last year. Chef Cámara with his impressive culinary experience, succeeded Chef and owner Paul Denamiel and decided to put his own touches to the family recipes from Chef Denamiel. The menu for sure is classic with dishes like escargots, soupe a l’oignon or seared foie gras that was a special that evening. I did not hesitate to try their frog legs that were prepared with garlic, parsley and butter (aka persillade), the same way escargots are. Frog legs are not that common on French restaurant menus, so, whenever I can order them, I do. And I was not disappointed: the frog legs had a good size and perfectly cooked, smothered by that persillade, that I also enjoyed with bread. Another classic entree well executed is their paté de campagne that had a perfect texture, and a robust flavor. It was accompanied by cornichons and moutarde a l’ancienne, as any paté should.

Chef David Camara at Le Rivage in NYC, NY

Pate de campagne at Le Rivage in NYC, NY

Where I was really excited is when they told me that the Chef made a cassoulet for the occasion. Cassoulet is a peasant dish that is made with beans, duck confit, sausage and pork belly. Slow cooked, they often have it as a special, better served the next day. I love this dish and was really looking forward to it, knowing that Chef Cámara participated in the famous D’Artagnan Cassoulet War three weeks ago. He did not win but apparently had fun participating. The cassoulet came pretty hot, still bubbling from the high temperature of the oven. Savory, meaty and very comforting, it was simply delicious, a perfect entree for a cold day. A must have if they propose it!

They also have an amazing gnocchi a la Parisienne that is made with Black Truffle and Comté Cheese. Rich, decadent, these gnocchi were soft and pillowy. Delicious.

Gnocchi a la Parisienne at Le Rivage in NYC, NY

Of course, I could not leave without trying their desserts. I guess it was my lucky day because the special was baba au rhum, a yeast cake soaked with rum, topped with whipped cream and fruits. The secret for a good baba is the density of the cake that needs to be airy, and of course, well imbibed in alcohol. And I guess they knew that secret as it was perfectly made. The baba reminded me when I was a kid in France and had it for snack, when it was sold in individual packets at the supermarket. Another great dessert was the ile flottante, a dessert that seems to make its way in French restaurants this days as it was my third in less than two months, but the best. Why? First, the egg whites were light and firm, laid on top of a succulent creme anglaise (vanilla custard) that I could have eaten on its own, being rich, velvety and not too sweet. Another must have.

I should mention their drinks: they have absinthe (I chose the Grande Absente that is 69 degrees proof), an anise-derived spirit made with plants that is served at Le Rivage the traditional French way, by dripping water on a sugar cube that is placed on a slotted spoon, so the water would mix with the alcohol (I was so excited by the way that I forgot to press record when I thought I was taking a video!!!). They also have mocktails like the French martini with citrus botanicals spirit, casis, pineapple and vamilla syrup, that was just ok for me. And of course, they offer digestives, like the poor Prisonniere, an eau de vie or clear, colourless pear brandy that is produced by means of fermentation and double distillation, perfect for digestion, especially after such a feast (they have an apple one as well).

Water for absinthe at Le Rivage in NYC, NY

Poire prisonnière at Le Rivage in NYC, NY

So, this visit changed my mind and I am now considering Le Rivage on top of my list of French restaurants in New York. Not because the meal was complimentary, but truly because it was amazing. Chef Cámara succeeded in crafting a classic French menu, with personal touches that did not betray the spirit of the French tradition.

Enjoy (I did)!

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Le Rivage - 340 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036

I Just Want To Eat! 2/20/25 I Just Want To Eat! 2/20/25

Lunch at Orsay on the Upper East Side

It’s been years since I wanted to eat at Orsay, a French restaurant located on the Upper East Side. This brasserie has been around for a quarter century and seem to remain the go to spot for neighbors and business people. In a way, I can understand as there are not that many great places around, even the outpost of Angelina Paris, with its reduced menu, cannot compete. Still, it is also because it is good and quite classic. For sure, I had to try their escargots ($18) that were not just bathed in the traditional garlic and parsley butter, but were topped with breadcrumbs and had a mist of pastis. I would not have known, would not have noticed. It was pretty good and I finished by dipping some bread into it, the best ending with this dish. I continued with their lunch steak frites ($38) that was served with a delicious béarnaise sauce. The sirloin was more on the medium side, rather than medium rare, but was still good. Jodi got their special that was a crustless vegetarian quiche, that I admit should be on the menu as it was delicious. We finished with their île flottante ($14), a dessert rarely seen on restaurant menus.

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Orsay - 1057 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021

I Just Want To Eat! 2/18/25 I Just Want To Eat! 2/18/25

Product Review: Is the Amzchef 8-in-1 milk frother the Rolls Royce of milk frothers?

he milk frother from Amzchef is not the first appliance I tried from that company and, so far, I have to say that I love this brand. Not just because they are sending me these products to try, but because they are truly good. Now, you are going to ask: what would a milk frother have so unique that I can’t just use what is attached to my coffee machine? Well, this is not just a milk frother. Of course, it…

The milk frother from Amzchef is not the first appliance I tried from that company and, so far, I have to say that I love this brand. Not just because they are sending me these products to try, but because they are truly good. Now, you are going to ask: what would a milk frother have so unique that I can’t just use what is attached to my coffee machine? Well, this is not just a milk frother. Of course, it can create a creamy milk foam, but a bit more advanced than most milk frothers (and don’t get me started with the handheld ones), with settings for dense or airy foam, and the possibility to froth cold milk as well. But there is also a setting for cashew or soy milk if using alternatives (I tried it with soy). However, one of the settings I prefer is the chocolate milk one, and not just to make hot chocolate (I made a delicious one with Ghirardelli double chocolate and milk); I also made chai, an Indian tea packed in spices with healthy benefits like cardamon, cloves, cinnamon and ginger that I added to milk and black tea. I put all the ingredients in the milk frother, set it to chocolate milk, press the button and it will do its magic. No need to boil on the stove and making sure there is no spill. And the result is fantastic. By the way, I should mention that it can also make baby food with baby formula, ensuring the result will be between 113 to 131 degrees F. Cleaning is easy, the milk jug going into the dishwasher, but know that the whisk and lid have to be hand washed.

Capuccino made with Amzchef milk frother

Tea with soy foam made with Amzchef milk frother

Hot cocoa made with Amzchef milk frother

I love how easy to use and clean this 8 in 1 milk frother is. We had a basic milk frother before, but this one is a game changer for us. Now that we can use it for more than milk frothing, we are using it everyday for a nice chai after dinner. So yes, for me, it is the Rolls Royce of milk frothers! I simply love it! And you can find it on the Amzchef website or Amazon.

I Just Want To Eat! 2/17/25 I Just Want To Eat! 2/17/25

Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

With its breathtaking views of the skyline, Lokal in Jersey City is definitely a place to know for brunch or dinner, or just to have a cocktail (or mocktail). Starting with these, they can make most of the mocktails you want, my favorite being the virgin mojito and the virgin lychee martini, their spirited version being less sweet and on top of my list. They also have classics like their Manhattan …

Manhattan cocktail at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Virgin mojito at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Lychee martini at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Virgin lychee martini (left) and lychee martini (right) at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

For dinner, they will bring you delicious homemade focaccia that is a bit dangerous as you cannot stop eating it although you know that some food is coming! They often change their menu, so the below has been over the course of few months. For dinner, we tried their whipped ricotta with truffled honey, that is always a crowd pleaser, where we dipped not only the bread that came with it, but also the delicious focaccia that they brought to tables. Another crowd pleaser is their cheese croquettes that were crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, the kind of appetizer you would keep eating over and over. But it is not the only shareable appetizers they serve: their crispy Brussels sprouts make you wonder why you did not like them when you were a kid (sorry, Mom!): they had variations since they opened and these, made with grapes and macron almonds were fantastic, as was the grilled octopus, served with mojo rojo, pickled chesno peppers and fingerling potatoes. Less adventurous is their hummus that was served with their homemade naan.

Whipped ricotta at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Cheese croquettes at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Crispy brussels sprouts at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Grilled octopus at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

For the entrees, at some point they had a fantastic ribeye that was juicy, tender and deliciously fatty, probably the best I had outside of a steakhouse! Jodi got their margarita flatbread that was quite good as well and a good option if you are vegetarian.

Margarita flatbread at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Dry aged ribeye at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

For brunch, they brought to the table a little basket that changes every week, and I decided to try their cheeseburger, topped with white cheddar and smothered with a spicy mayo. It was ok for me, the patty being slightly overcooked and dry, and I did not like their home fries that lacked crispiness. No, I would more recommend their shashuka that was probably my favorite with the mascarpone pancakes that were fluffy and slightly crispy on the sides (we had to ask for more syrup). The mezze platter is a nice touch, served with hummus, tzatziki and a spicy feta, but the falafel were a bit on the dry side.

Breakfast basket at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Cheeseburger at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

We also tried their desserts, but I admit that I was a bit disappointed: their tiramisu was not creamy enough and the cookies not soaked enough in coffee, and the flourless chocolate cake was dry.

Flourless chocolate cake at Lokal in Jersey City, NJ

Overall, Lokal is a great brunch and dinner spot, especially if you can get a table next to the window, so, not only you have some great cocktails and food, but you also get the splendid skyline view. Only negative for me is their desserts that are just ok and not memorable. I would still recommend it!

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Lokal - 2 2nd St, Jersey City, NJ 07302

I Just Want To Eat! 2/13/25 I Just Want To Eat! 2/13/25

Brunch at Panela in Hoboken, NJ

We recently went to Panera in Hoboken for brunch. The place was quiet in the sense that there were only a few patrons, but the music was loud, to the point that I just wanted to finish my meal and leave, a headache being probably coming at the same time as the bill. Well, the fact that the kitchen was a bit slow did not help…Foodwise, it was ok, the guacamole having too much lime and I wished the avocado was less smashed, and with little chunks, the veggie quesadilla was missing cheese and I wish they served it with sour cream and pico de gallo. However, the brunch burger that was topped with bacon and an egg was delicious, served with maduros that you can add on top to add some sweetness to it, and some fries. The yolk was perfectly runny, adding richness and flavor to the burger. We finished the meal with delicious churros that were filled with dulce de leche. I should mention their coquito that was very good, nicely sweet and smooth.

Veggie quesadilla at Panela in Hoboken, NJ

So, overall, some food was good, other was ok. The menu at Panela is interesting for sure but I am not sure it is to the point that it is worth two Tylenol for me. But, if you do not mind the loud music, you should give it a shot…

Enjoy (…)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Panela - 36-42 Newark St., Hoboken, NJ 07030

I Just Want To Eat! 2/10/25 I Just Want To Eat! 2/10/25

Is the tea time menu at Angelina Paris worth it?

We were looking forward to trying the afternoon tea at Angelina Paris near Bryant Park (they have an outpost on the Upper East Side, but it much smaller with a limited menu). We went around 11:30am during the holidays and waited a bit for a table as they do not take reservations. We ordered the “Tea time” where, for $49, you get a beverage (hot chocolate, tea or coffee), a grapefruit or orange juice, a selection of five mini-hors d’œuvres (avocado toast, chicken club, truffle croque monsieur, quinoa salad and salmon waffle), and mini pastries (Mont-Blanc, lemon tart, chocolate chou and macaron). It started off with a large glass of orange juice and the hot chocolate that is a must have: this is literally melted chocolate. Adding whipped cream will counterbalance the richness of it.

Orange juice and hot chocolate at Angelina Paris in NYC, NY

Hot chocolate at Angelina Paris in NYC, NY

Then came the food “tower”. Well it was more a tower for a Playmobile and I was really surprised how small it was, to the point that I leaned forward to better look at it! In fact, I realized that, when they said mini hors d’oeuvres, I should have gotten the hint! Hors d’oeuvres are small bites, so, these were definitely mini! Overall, it was good, although I was a bit disappointed with the Mont Blanc dessert (a Mont Blanc made with sweetened chestnut purée shaped like vermicelli, that tops a meringue and whipped cream), because it was too small and you could not really get what a Mont Blanc is, their regular size pastry being very good and one of their specialties.

I left hungry to say the least and a bit disappointed as I really like this place. The tea time menu is really overpriced. Disappointed, but not to the point that I will never go back to Angelina Paris! Their hot chocolate is one of the best in the City!

Enjoy (…)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Angelina Paris - 1050 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018

I Just Want To Eat! 2/8/25 I Just Want To Eat! 2/8/25

Product Review: TOPZEE Easy Cook Mini Air Fryer

TOPZEE sent me their Easy Cook Mini Air Fryer to try and I really liked it. Compact, it is perfect for a small kitchen or a dorm, easily transported thanks to its light weight. There are several cooking functions, from roast, bake, air frying and reheat, with few preselected settings for easy operations: fries, fish or shrimp, chicken, pizza, meatballs (interesting!), steak and dehydrate. Of course, you can also choose a temperature and duration, but I decided to go with…

This one portion fryer is also easy to clean as it is dishwasher safe! This is the perfect choice if you are looking for a compact air fryer!

You can find it here or on Amazon.

I Just Want To Eat! 1/26/25 I Just Want To Eat! 1/26/25

Product review: Amzchef Desktop Range Hood

Please note that, although this product was sent to me complimentary, I was not obliged to post and the opinions expressed in my blog are 100% my own!

I have seen lots of videos promoting a portable range hood, so, when Amzchef proposed me to review theirs, I was quite curious. The first question you may ask is: why would one need a range hood? The answer is simple: when you cook, you generate heat, smoke, polluants and grease, the latter being a fire hazard. But you cannot always have a range hood or, in my case, I find the one on top of my stove noisy and not that efficient, especially when I am frying something, maybe because it is too high from the pan.
I admit that when I unpacked the one from Amzchef, I was a bit surprised by the size as it is bigger than I expected, but really liked the futuristic and sleek look. The first thing I had to do was to install the filter that is fairly easy. Then, I plugged it in, pressed the power button in the back and put it on the maximum setting to absorb the fumes from the pan where I was frying tofu. Not loud, it did an even better job when I made a sauce with gochujang that generates a bit of smoke usually, and it was cool to see the smoke being sucked into the range hood. There was definitely no smoke in our apartment. Of course, you could still smell a bit of the cooking but the absorption of smoke made a big difference..
Where the portability is good is if you make dishes indoors, on your dining table, with a raclette or table BBQ grill and cook meat, that usually creates smoke: you just need to set this range hood next to the grill and voila!

If you’d like to purchase one, you can find it on Amazon.

I Just Want To Eat! 1/23/25 I Just Want To Eat! 1/23/25

Junior's in Times Square

When it comes to a pastrami reuben, there is no doubt that Katz’s Delicatessen is better. But for cheesecake, especially plain, Junior’s is for me the best, better than the Cheesecake Factory. Founded in 1950 in Brooklyn by Harry Rosen, its two Times Square restaurants, one on 45th street and the other one on 49th street are always busy, for sure with tourists and theater goers, but not only. They do not take reservations, but their wait list system is quite efficient, so, even if you are with a large group, they should be able to accommodate.
Their menu is quite big, with classic delicatessen dishes like matzo ball soup (pretty good) or potato latkes (potato pancakes, served with apple sauce - a must have) that you can order by the unit, that replace buns in one of their “sensational sandwiches” called “something different”, where two potato pancakes squeeze delicious slices of brisket. Another sensational sandwich, if you are looking for something more Americana is their 1/2 lb jumbo hotdog that is served with sauerkraut and relish. I tried it and it is good, but I always prefer their reuben, the pastrami one being my favorite over the corned beef, because of the rich, and salty flavor, with hints of spices from the rub and the delicious fattiness of the meat. With your sandwich, you can get Cole slaw, fries or chopped liver for an additional $3.95. The fries are steak fries, so not my favorite as I like them skinny and crispy on the outside. So, I often go for their chopped liver where chunks of chicken liver are mixed with onions and hard boiled eggs. They also propose it with rye bread and red onion as an appetizer if you feel that you need more than one small portion.

Matzo ball soup at Junior's in Times Square

Potato latkes at Junior's in Times Square

Something different sandwich at Junior's in Times Square

Chopped liver at Junior's in Times Square

Jumbo hotdog at Junior's in Times Square

Pastrami sandwich at Junior's in Times Square

Pastrami reuben at Junior's in Times Square

Corned beef reuben at Junior's in Times Square

If you are vegetarian, they propose few dishes besides the latkes I mentioned, like a Greek salad or their grilled cheese that is decent, but a bit disappointing as you would think that, considering the rest of their dishes, they would serve something decadent.

Grilled cheese sandwich at Junior's in Times Square

When it comes to drinks, they have cocktails, some seasonal like this bourbon apple cider they were proposing the last time I went, but my all time favorite is their chocolate egg cream (the vanilla one was just ok for me).

Bourbon apple cider at Junior's in Times Square

Chocolate egg cream at Junior's in Times Square

Vanilla egg cream at Junior's in Times Square

But now, let’s talk about cheesecake: their plain one is my all time favorite: rich, creamy, tangy and not too sweet. Their chocolate mousse cheesecake is also rich and creamy, but I find it too sweet. If I wanted something different, I would get their Oreo cheesecake that is really good and that I could not stop eating…I should mention that, if you want to take a slice home, they have containers specifically designed so transportation is not an issue.

Plain cheesecake at Junior's in Times Square

Oreo cheesecake at Junior's in Times Square

Chocolate mousse cheesecake at Junior's in Times Square

Looking at this, I guess you have guessed that I am a big fan of Junior’s. I love that place and never get bored. If you decide to go, know that the portions are big, hence the prices for sandwiches that are around $20 to $23. Sharing is highly suggested!

Enjoy (I really did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Junior’s - 1515 Broadway, W 45th St, New York, NY 10036

I Just Want To Eat! 1/20/25 I Just Want To Eat! 1/20/25

Celebrating Valentine's Day with Li-lac Chocolates

Reputed for its aphrodisiac qualities, chocolate has become a Valentine’s Day favorite. So, when Li-Lac Chocolates, the oldest chocolate house in the city (it was founded in 1923) sent me some samples, I was really excited. I discovered Li-Lac many years ago, during a walking food tour, and have been a fan since then. Why? Their chocolates, made with high quality ingredients, in small batches, using classic techniques that are very good. Even the simplest ones, that are dark or milk chocolate are well balanced, not too sweet, letting the taste of cocoa shine. For Valentine’s Day, Li-Lac is proposing a wide selection, from $3.95 for the rose, $9.50 for the heart and $32 for 10 pieces presented in a nice red chocolate box (it includes French Cream, Chocolate Fudge, Hazelnut Truffle, Maple Walnut Fudge, Marzipan, two Chocolate Mousse Rolls, and 2 red-foiled Chocolate Hearts). There is more of course on their website.

So enjoy (I did)! And happy Valentine’s Day!

I Just Want To Eat! 1/16/25 I Just Want To Eat! 1/16/25

Cafe Cartel in Hoboken, NJ

I was looking forward to trying Cafe Cartel, a coffee shop serving Colombian specialties that opened in the Summer 2024. I admit that, like the infamous drug lords, they have hidden their location as the address at 1100 Adams is a bit misleading, the entrance being on Jefferson street. Small, with two huge drip coffee makers for their cold brew, a logo representing a bandit with its face covered and a “Made in Medellin” neon sign that fan of the TV series Narcos will appreciate, it serves classic breakfast items like croissant, chocolate croissant or cinnamon rolls. We tried the latter as well as a pecan and caramel walnut dish that sounded promising, but, unfortunately, it was not good, tasting a bit stale and factory made. However, their Pan de Bono that is a Colombian cheese bread was delicious, gooey, perfect with or without Nutella. The only problem is that they heat them up in a microwave, and it was so hot that the video I made with the one with the Nutella is a great video for bloopers…Beverages were better: Jodi had an earl grey tea and I had a good espresso.

Earl grey tea at Cafe Cartel in Hoboken, NJ

Cinnamon roll at Cafe Cartel in Hoboken, NJ

Pecan, caramel and walnut danish at Cafe Cartel in Hoboken, NJ

Pan de bono at Cafe Cartel in Hoboken, NJ

Pan de bono with Nutella at Cafe Cartel in Hoboken, NJ

Overall, we were disappointed. If I were to go back for breakfast, I would just get the Pan de Bono, with Nutella of course, and an espresso (I might try their cold brew as this slow drip looks always relaxing and fascinating). Their lunch might be much better, with a selection of empanadas and small sandwiches that looked pretty good.

Enjoy (…)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Cafe Cartel - Retail #3 Entrance on the corner of 11th &, 1100 Adams St, Jefferson St, Hoboken, NJ 07030

I Just Want To Eat! 1/13/25 I Just Want To Eat! 1/13/25

Jane Doe in Jersey City

Before I talk about the food, let’s talk about their cocktails as they also have a lounge. They have quite a good selection of coktails, classic or not. I admit that I could not resist trying their Rare and Allocated cocktail called the R&A Tipperary for the simple reason that it had green Chartreuse in it. Well balanced, I was glad that this divine French liquor was not lost in the mix of High n’ wicked Aeneas Coffey Irish whiskey, Vermouth, aromatic bitters and orange oil. They also had seasonal cocktails, served hot, considering the freezing temperatures we recently had. So, I tried The Dori, that is…

When I learned that Jane Doe in Jersey City is from the same people who brought us Dullboy and Orale Mexican Cuisine, I knew we would be in for a treat. And I was not wrong. The restaurant is as cool as the staff, who are very friendly and often checking if everything is fine, making you feel welcome: this is what for me hospitality represents and they certainly know how to make you feel comfortable.

The R&A Tipperary at Jane Doe in Jersey City

One their interesting appetizer is their scallion pancake, made with zucchini butter, mushroom medley and scallions. Very creative as quite different from the classic Chinese dish, it was rustic and comforting. I highly recommend it. They also have a whipped ricotta that is homemade, topped with peppers that I thought added some depth to a cheese that, in my opinion, always needs something with it; usually it is honey, but I admit that the peppers and olive oil added some flair. It was served with Pinsa bread that is made with a hand pressed pizza dough. And if you need more, they will be quite happy to bring some.

Whipped ricotta at Jane Doe in Jersey City

Scallion pancakes at Jane Doe in Jersey City

For the main, they have a nice selection of pasta, that they can make gluten free or vegan upon request. Their bucatini with mushroom puree and butternut squash was delcious, as was their spaghetti pomodoro that was topped with Grana Padano, one of my favorite cheeses with pasta. One thing not to miss is their layered fries that I got with the skirt steak (served with truffle parm aioli and perfectly cooked medium rare, I would go back just for it) or their smash burger (the bun is a homemade milk bread that I would just eat with butter and jam! Good burger, the meat being nicely charred and juicy). These fries are cooked in beef tallow, that gave to these perfectly crispy potatoes a rich and savory flavor. This is a must have and know that you can order them as a side (I would!).

Spaghetti pomodoro at Jane Doe in Jersey City

Smashed burger at Jane Doe in Jersey City

Of course, we could not leave without trying their desserts and, like the rest, it was original. The limoncello olive oil cake with mascarpone frosting was my favorite, probably because of the generous amount of limoncello! It was totally soaked and the mascarpone frosting added a nice layer to balance with the alcohol. It was like an Italian version of a tres leches cake. Their S’mores semifreddo was also quite surprising, having chunks of chocolate and marshmallow. Quite delicious.

Limoncello olive oil cake at Jane Doe in Jersey City

S’mores semifreddo at Jane Doe in Jersey City

Hopefully after reading this, you understand why I was excited to go to Jane Doe: the food is creative and delicious. Although it is a bit of the beaten path, it is worth a visit!

Enjoy (I really did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Jane Doe - 333 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302

Sponsored Post: Amzchef Commercial Induction Cooktop

I Just Want To Eat! 1/12/25 I Just Want To Eat! 1/12/25

The end of Blue Eyes in Hoboken, NJ?

We passed in front of Blue Eyes so many times, always thinking that we should go there for brunch or dinner, that we finally decided to stop by few months ago. Little we knew that this place will have to make major changes as the Hoboken City Council approved a new lease agreement last Summer, that forces the restaurant, that sits in Sinatra Park, to comply with the Green Acres program. This program requires Blue Eyes to expand its menu to offer a much broader choice to visitors, with apparently only grab and go (no more table service, with all seats available to all visitors), and more affordable prices. I admit that I was shocked when I heard this, thinking that they could have probably find a middle ground between the Green Acres Program and the survival of a successful business. So, what …

Gavi di Gavi, Villa Sparina, Piemonte, Italy 2022 at Blue Eyes in Hoboken, NJ

Super Tuscan, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grepiccante, Italy at Blue Eyes in Hoboken, NJ

4 formaggi pizza at Blue Eyes in Hoboken, NJ

Margherita pizza at Blue Eyes in Hoboken, NJ

Linguine alle vongole at Blue Eyes in Hoboken, NJ

This is such a shame considering the quality of their food. So, if you never had a chance to go To Blue Eyes, stop by as a sign of support to the owner and the staff before the new rule goes into effect. I do not know when it will be, so, stay tuned!

Enjoy (I did)!

If you like this post, the photos or the blog, please feel free to share it or post a comment. Merci!

Blue Eyes - 525 Sinatra Dr, Hoboken, NJ 07030