One of my favorite things in this world is when a dish appears in front of me that is so delicious, in an unexpected way, that I actually stop talking (odd for me) and swear repeatedly (with a few side-mouthed omg’s thrown in).

Of course, I order these dishes hoping for delicious food but sometimes there are those few extras – the cook or the ingredients – that take these dishes to another level. I beg you – try these….

Aside: As I wrote this, I realized that I’ve forgotten some of the ingredients and so the only option I have is to eat all of these dishes ASAP…..and report back here soon, with my full guts and the right ingredients!

1. Prairie Sun Brewery’s fish tacos – I’ve only had these once but wow. Two medium sized tacos packed with flavor – jalapenos, avocado, onion, tomato, cilantro, grilled fish…..I can’t remember if I had a side of salsa or crema to add on top – but either way it was perfect. Most fish tacos these days are stuffed with lettuce or cabbage, bland, and have greasy, battered fish – not these ones! With the tacos comes a side of real coleslaw…refreshing, with nice acidity.
2. Little Grouse’s burrata – I’ve had this a few times and it’s perfect every time – creamy cheese (like a soft mozzarella) served with olive oil and sea salt for you to layer on crostinis…the combination of soft, creamy cheese, rich olive oil, and coarse sea salt is just a great way to start off a meal….
3. Cactus Club’s quinoa salad – so many great things are going on in this salad…quinoa, arugula, capers, spicy candied pecans, raisins, feta, – I add Cajun chicken. The dressing is an acidic vinaigrette which goes well with all the ingredients. The flavor and texture of the salty capers and sweet raisins are what push this salad past ‘just another salad’ for me. Update: I went here for lunch today (July 13) and realized I forgot about the grape tomatoes, red peppers, other fresh greens, and the dressing is a sherry vinaigrette. Yum! Still amazing, as always.
4. Manhattan Gastropub’s Trifon’s pizza – I don’t even know where to start, there’s pizza and then there’s this pizza…..So much mozzarella cheese, a fresh-tasting, non-greasy, thick crust, with a great amount of sauce. The other toppings are good but this pizza is all about the cheese and crust.
5. Las Palapas’ bean salad – I get it, it’s just a bean salad – NO – it’s flavor all over the place. Goya beans (chick peas), black beans, kidney beans, onions, cilantro, with a ceviche-like dressing (citrusy vinaigrette). I once asked for the recipe and they wouldn’t give it to me!

Comments welcome…..

Happy bites!