Tag Archives: 4 Chubbys

Island Burgers & Shakes: I wanna be Lost on this yummy Island!

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UPDATE 8/2011: They now serve fries!!!!

Dear Food Diary:

Walking into Island Burgers & Shakes, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but my imagination was held back since the name says it all… or does it?

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Real laid back atmosphere, sunny Californian backyard meets surfer lover’s bedroom. This ain’t your typical burger, fries and shakes, same old same old kinda place. Dude, if that’s what your into, go to a diner. To call them creative would be an understatement, mad and burger obsessed seems more fitting. Different breads, sauces, toppings, the variations of a classic beef patty between 2 pieces of carb were endless. Peanut butter? Curried sour cream? Chives? Pesto? Blackened? Fun names, outrageous combinations, my kinda place.

Spot Dessert Bar: Homemade sodas and a sweet way to start/end any day

Dear Food Diary:
Walking into Spot is like entering the set of a random asian soap/music video. Its high panel windows, wooden tables and accents, cute water jars, twinkling lights transmits a warm, welcoming atmosphere that’s both homey and friendly. Good for any date scene or a friends get together. As I await the highlights of a sweet episode to play out, Asian pop music begins playing in my head. Even sans a handsome Asian actor bursting out cheesy dialogue, the variety on their fun menu assures that my spoon and taste buds will embark on a sweet sweet love affair to the far far East and back.

Amy Ruth’s: Waffle and Fried Chicken Breakfast – 93 Plates Part II.

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Dear Food Diary:
Saturday morning I went all the way up to Harlem for a breakfast of champions at Amy Ruth’s. I met Hagan of Wondering Foodie once again for his 93 plates project. The first time we met at Szechuan Gourmet he was at the beginning of this waist stretching journey, now at mid point, he’s added on a mere 6 lbs, not too bad considering ALL that he’s eaten so far. He’s still going strong and excited as ever, kudos to him.
My first time at Amy Ruth’s was way back in college and didn’t leave a big impression, so I was looking forward to revisiting.

Enoteca Maria: Nonna’s cooking!!! Just hop on the Staten Island Ferry

Dear Food Diary:
I know what you’re thinking, all the way to Staten Island for food? Totally understand, I never thought I would say this either, but I truly found this gem a ferry ride away.
People who are lucky enough to have a Nonna (Italian for grandma) always brag about how great their meal was. I’ve always been jealous. Tried inviting myself to such dinners, unsuccessfully. But hey, their nonnas got nothing on me now, I found 6 nonnas who will cook for me any night of the week at Enoteca Maria… beat that! Love owner Joe’s concept of having a different nonna cook traditional, local dishes from family recipes each night. Every nonna is from a different region in Italy and everything is made fresh from scratch.

Wo Hop & Gahm Mi Oak: Best After Drinking Eats

Dear Food Diary:
It’s the season to eat, drink and be merry. Actually, these are the rules I try to live by every day of the year… Cheers to that! Since NYE is hours away, I thought this post would come in handy.
After a long night of drinking and partying, the tummy always calls for something hearty and comforting before hitting the pillow. Aside from the Halal Guys on 53rd & 6 Av, these are my favorite places to visit late nights (I mean early mornings *wink*). The latest I’ve been to both places is past 4 a.m.