One of my favorite foods in the whole wide world is Xiao Long Bao aka XLB. XLB is a dumpling which literally translates to "little basket bun".
These are commonly found in the areas of Shanghai and Wuxi, China. Here in the US, XLB are also referred to as Soup Dumplings.
These little pockets of love are worldly. A thin, slightly translucent, unleavened dough surrounds meat which has been steamed. In preparation, the meat includes a good amount of gelatin that once steamed, turns into soup within the wrapper of the dumpling.
Most commonly served with vinegar and slivers of ginger, I love to eat my XLB in the following way:
This gem sits on the busy Ventura Blvd. just a few steps from Il Tramezzino. With eleven franchises in the Los Angeles area and fifteen in New York, this little shop is on the move. Although the company is large, with franchises all over the world, the feel inside is that of a well run, privately held cafe.
On my first visit the cheese plate was disappointing but what I really loved is the coffee. Served similar to the fashion that Cafe Fanny serves their coffee, in a bowl, the rich cream and great brew just lit up my face. Add a touch of sweet agave nectar (instead of sugar) and I'm a happy 'yamper'.
Il Tramezzino - a place I first went to in Beverly Hills is now opening in Tarzana. The photos above were taken at the location in Sherman Oaks on Ventura Boulevard just west of Coldwater Canyon.
"Il Tram," as everyone calls it, is well known for its light and quick bites and also as a place to see and be seen. For some reason unclear to me, this place is very IN at the moment. I remember going there late one night and enjoying a hot croissant filled with Nutella and sliced Bananas.
(Please excuse the "red" pictures - you'll understand if you've been to Roscoe's before)
Roscoe's is a legendary establishment. Being around for many years, they are obviously doing something right!
Yes, this was my first visit to Roscoe's in my 18+ years living in Los Angeles. I will definitely return and I actually look forward to the next visit.
What I really crave is the waffle. I thought the waffle was made very well. There was a good spiceiness to the batter made with cinnamon and a few other ingredients for sure. The syrup seemed standard issue Sysco but that was good too.
The chicken was fried very well and the seasoning of the fry was great. The meat was nice and moist. I ordered a dark meat plate with two waffles. It was a good choice. Omer and Limor both ordered the classic Breast and Waffle plate.
At the farmer's market there are always lots of pretty good booths that offer an array of flavors. This past weekend we tried the Tamale vendor. With many flavors of Masa and different fillings, we chose the Blue Corn filled with Jack Cheese and Roasted Green Peppers.
The combination was great and the Tamale was very well seasoned and delicious.
Porto's is a true phenomenon. Upon arrival to this magical place, you get awestruck by how many people are in line and how massive of a project this really is.
It's always nice to walk into a place and watch it run, and this place sure does run like a well oiled machine. There is plenty of staff and the long lines pass quickly - try it if you're in the area.
We often stop there on the way to the Burbank Airport (Bob Hope) as it's right on the way.
Make sure to try the Cuban influenced snacks and save room for some sweets.
Recent Comments