Restaurant Review: Ball Square Cafe in Somerville, MA

There are a few things you should know about me: Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, and I am always on the lookout for mouth-watering eggs benedict and chocolate chip pancakes.  Let me tell you about Ball Square Cafe in Somerville, MA.  They really hit the spot when it comes to my breakfast cravings and the quality is consistent.  I've been here twice already, and I foresee many more visits.

Let's start with one of my all-time favorite breakfast items:

Traditional Eggs Benedict ($11.95)

These Traditional Eggs Benedict are done just right.  The eggs are poached perfectly - nice runny yolks with the whites cooked through, two slices of thin Canadian bacon and grilled English muffins.  And the home fries are done to my liking as well - well done.  I love crispy home fries. And like I said earlier, both times I've had these bennys, they've consistently been done to my liking.  And to be honest, the touch of paprika on top adds a nice flavor to the hollandaise, which is thick and creamy.  A lot of other places where I've had bennys, the paprika seems like more of a garnish than actually adding any flavor.  My guess is that these have smoked paprika on them.  Like a boss!

I've also had the Florentino Eggs Benedict ($12.95):

Florentino Eggs Benedict

As you may notice in the photo, instead of home fries there is a crispy potato thing in the background.  That my friends is Omar's Home Fries (grilledmashed).  Imagine your favorite mashed potatoes in a thin layer then grilled on a flat top until both sides have a crispy crust.  It's worth a try.

The Florentino is nice and light and a perfect alternative to the savory bomb that is the Traditional benny.

Need something sweeter?  You're a human after my own heart.  How's this:

Caramelized Apple-Cinnamon French Toast

This my friends is the Caramelized Apple-Cinnamon French Toast ($9.95).  All the French toast is made with Challah bread... yum.  Notice how that whipped cream looks just a little more decadent than usual?  That's because it is homemade.  Plus, you can ask for real maple syrup or sugar-free maple syrup.  I thoroughly enjoyed ravaging this pile of deliciousness.  The apples were the perfect mix of some al dente and some soft.  I honestly don't remember adding much, if any, syrup to this.  Simply delicious.

Next:

Chocolate chip pancakes

Give me chocolate or give me death!  That may seem a bit extreme but don't ever get between a woman and her chocolate cravings.  You'll lose an appendage or something else you value.  These Chocolate Chip Pancakes are made with chocolate morsels mixed right into the batter.  They are buttery, eggy and with enough chocolate chips to satisfy my craving.  (To be honest it never really is satisfied.)  

In the background you can see a side of fruit.  That too is nice and fresh and satisfying.

Last but not least:

Mexican Omelet ($12.95)

Holy omelet Batman! This thing is no joke.  The Mexican Omelet has avocado, jalapenos, tomatoes, scallions, cilantro and cheddar cheese topped with sour cream.  There's even a grilled corn muffin on the side, which I could have used just a tad more grilled, to really bring out more of that natural sweetness in the corn.  What's nice about the jalapenos, and the other veggies, is that they are grilled, which also brings out some of the natural sugars and takes some of the heat out.  And if you are a wimp like me when it comes to heat, you will appreciate it. 

Here are a couple more things about this place. Expect to wait in line on the weekends for sure, and possibly even on weekdays.  There is a self-serve coffee bar and I really like this.  It really gives it a homey feeling, and a plus: they have soy milk, which is great for me because I am dairy-challenged.  Another thing is Mike Moccia, the co-owner.  He is constantly walking around, making everyone feel at home and handing out fist bumps.  Check this guy out:

Co-owner Mike Moccia and myself

So, come here hungry, and leave happy.  That's what I intend to keep doing.

Winter Hikes in South County, RI

As seen in the January 2013 issue of SO Rhode Island magazine

Winter has set, in but that doesn’t mean we have to settle for cozy afternoons by the fire reading a book and sipping tea. Wait, that’s not exactly a bad thing but let’s just say you want to mix things up a little bit. In an attempt to avoid cabin fever, set out into the wilderness and let the cold wind caress your face. Now, there is really no wilderness in South County. But for those of us city- or suburb-bound, a little open space can seem huge; and in a place as small as Rhode Island, where there is basically a Dunkin' Donuts on every corner, these open spaces are gems. They are places to be enjoyed for their feelings of solitude or with the company of your choice. Whether a novice in need of a gorgeous view, or a seasoned hiker with a want for a bit of a challenge, we’ve got your hiking needs covered.

To begin with, always check the weather and dress appropriately. Personally, I would not go hiking during a rainstorm. I would, however, watch the snow fall over the ocean, but I am a bit of a romantic. A good base layer of thermals always gets me through either a light or more challenging hike. Wearing a windproof jacket also makes life immeasurably more enjoyable while choosing to spend time in the cold. 

Speaking of snow, contrary to popular belief, hiking after a snowfall is a great idea for a number of reasons. If you have never had the pleasure of being the first to walk a trail after a snowfall, add it to your bucket list. The quiet serenity of walking in the woods while hearing fresh snow crunching under your boots is something out of a Laura Ingalls Wilder novel. The sight of snow at the tide line is also something that leaves me in awe. Snow on the beach never lasts too long, so it’s always a treat when you finally do see it.

Classic New England

Take in the view at Beavertail

Photograph by Grace Lentini

Sometimes in the cold air, all you can do is take in the view in a gorgeous location. That is what is so great about Beavertail State Park in Jamestown. As you make your way down Conanicut Island, past beautiful farmland, past the historic Jamestown windmill, across Zeke’s Creek and finally winding around to the southern point at Beavertail, this point looks south into the Atlantic and separates the East and West passages. This rocky outcrop is never shy on gorgeous, big crashing waves and, oh did I mention: the Beavertail Lighthouse. It’s only a quintessential New England experience to be sitting on the rocks in front of the lighthouse, hearing the horn blowing and feeling the salt spray on your face. No big deal. 

What’s more, we have the luxury of special winter guests that grace our rocky coastlines, Harlequin ducks. These medium sized, northern nesting birds overwinter in our “warmer” waters and dive and dabble for food source. Mollusks, crustaceans, insects, bait fish and roe (found in marine and riverine environments) make up their varied diet.

Male Harlequin ducks are exquisite in their plumage. They exhibit a slate blue base, chestnut sides and vibrant white markings including a white dot on their cheek. Adorable. Whether I am out with my spotting scope or binoculars in hand, I know that I will have a good chance of seeing these ducks if I make the effort to leave the couch. 

Walk With the Animals
Trustom Pond offers glimpses of wildlife

Illustrations by Caleigh McGrath

Now, if I actually want to brave the cold and hike it out, I will pick a day where the wind is calm and the sun is shining and head on down to Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge. And yes, I will bring my spotting scope, binoculars or camera, or some combination, because there is always something to see at Trustom.

It is a unique place. After you park in the gravel parking lot and leave your car, you walk into trails that are situated in coastal shrubland and mixed forest. Expect to see your typical overwintering birds such as White-crowned sparrows, Dark-eyed juncos, Tufted titmice and Black-capped chickadees as you walk the trails. Also, keep an eye out for the deer trails that are tucked away beneath the shrubs. I always feel like I’ve been let in on some secret the moment I recognize a deer trail or catch a glimpse of a White-tailed deer out of the corner of my eye.

But, when I go to Trustom, my heart is set on getting to the coastal pond. I want to see my overwintering dabbling ducks. I need to see them. I need to see the Buffleheads, the Common Goldeneye, the Ring-necked Ducks. They are so cute. I can’t deal with it. Especially the Buffleheads, they are so little and while they are diving for food it’s always a game to see where they will pop up.

Trustom is multifaceted. Because of the variety of habitats, you will encounter wildlife species like Sharp-shinned hawks and Barred owls. These birds of prey will be hunting all year round, and, because of the open fields that Trustom offers, you will have a birds- eye view of prime hunting opportunities and may even catch a predatorprey interaction in person.

Arcadia Management Area

Thinking springy thoughts

But let’s say you want to head inland. Maybe the thought of being too close to the ocean in the winter is more than you can bear — you’re clearly not from around here. That’s okay, let’s go to Arcadia Management Area, and head to Breakheart Pond (end of Hick's Trail off Frosty Hollow Road).

This is a favorite spot of mine regardless of the time of year. It’s a short hike that gives me my nature fix. It combines a typical New England mixed forest, so even though the deciduous trees are barren at the moment, the white pines are holding down the fort and providing the greenery in these wintry months. This trail can easily be hiked with a good pair of boots or with snow shoes after a snowfall. It’s entirely up to you what you are in the mood for.

This is one of those spots where hiking in the winter time makes me think of the spring and how much places like these come alive with the melting of the snow. I start to think about spring peepers, and wood frogs and turning over rotting logs in the hopes of catching a Red-backed salamander or even a Spotted salamander. I look into the pond and see logs and rocks along the edges. It makes me think about the painted and spotted turtles that will be sunning themselves and resting on these in the not-to-distant future. Winter makes me grateful for the spring and gives me an appreciation for patience and the natural order of things.

I used to live on Wachaug Pond; it was a beautiful and strange moment in my life. When a pond freezes and decides to shift, and furthermore is surrounded by mostly protected land, the effect is incredible. The sound is alien. It brings you back to a time where people were more in touch with their environment. It’s visceral. That is what being outside is the winter is like, a visceral reaction to an environment that you may or may not be entirely in touch with. So go out an enjoy it. Although it may just be for a short amount of time, it’s long enough to get your outdoor fix and explore areas you may not have thought of or see wildlife you never thought you would see.

Fall River Dining: A bite-by-bite guide to the city's culinary scene

As seen in the December 2013 issue of The Bay magazine

I’m so hungry. Let’s go to Fall River. Say what now? Has that ever been said? Well, maybe it should. Fall River is 210 years old, holds down one end of the longest bridge in the world (it connects Somerset to Little Portugal), has the largest collection of WWII naval vessels at Battleship Cove, contains the mystery surrounding Lizzie Borden, is home to signs reading “the next time you cut through my yard, you go around” and the birthplace of Emeril Lagasse – the chef who lets the rest of Food Network watchers know that Fall River even exists.

From landmark Portuguese restaurants to classic diners and comfort food, the Fah Reeve dining scene has more than meets the eye and is worth a second glance. Here’s your guide to navigating this far off land.

Keeping It Simple
Let’s start with one of the establishments that has made Fall River what it is today. Head on down to Hartley’s Original Pork Pies. They make traditional British pork pies - the most popular being the original Pork Pie - with a recipe that is 113 years. It’s simple goodness: a flaky crust filled with 98% lean pork, salt and pepper. It proves that the simple joys in life are the ones that people come back for time and time again. 1729 S Main Street, Fall River. 508-676-8605.

Next stop is Patty’s Pierogis, one of the two remaining diners open for business in Fall River. You might remember this place when Guy Fieri featured it on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. The first thing you must try is (duh) a pierogi. For those of you who aren’t quite sure what that is, think of it as Polish ravioli. The most popular pierogi – among the 40 or so varieties offered on a daily basis – is Potato and Cheese, tradition at its finest. And who doesn’t love cheese and mashed potatoes? But for a well-rounded experience, try the Polish Plate. It comes with two pierogis, one golumpki (a stuffed cabbage roll filled with hamburger, rice and onion then baked with tomato sauce), a link of kielbasa and polish rye bread with a choice of kapusta soup or house salad. The soup is a family recipe made with cabbage, sauerkraut, potatoes and onion in a chicken broth. 1019 South Main Street, Fall River. 508-679-4001. 

The second of two diners left in operation is Al Mac’s Diner. Under new ownership but keeping with tradition, the 100-year-plus diner continues to bring home cooking to the masses. Their signature item is the corned beef, which you can have as a Reuben or for breakfast with eggs, home fries and toast. The beef is house-brined for four days then slow roasted for eight hours. From there it’s cooked to order. All I can say is, yes please. 135 President Avenue, Fall River. 508-567-5727.  

Portuguese Restaurants
It’s no secret. Fall River has a lot of Portuguese restaurants. Although there is no official consensus, Sagres has unofficially held the top position as best Portuguese restaurant for years. Unfortunately, it burned and is currently closed. It was where I had the best Alentejana of my life. This dish includes pork medallions, little neck clams and potatoes in a to-die-for sauce. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it will reopen soon.

In the meantime, there are many other Portuguese restaurants worth their weight in chourico and eggs. And speaking of eggs, no steak at a Portuguese restaurant would be complete without an egg on top of it. At Caldeiras Restaurant, their Bifea Portuguesa (Portuguese steak) hits the mark. It’s a 10oz choice sirloin seared with garlic, hot sauce, beer and olive oil served with a fried egg on top with rice and fries. 990 Pleasant Street, Fall River. 508-673-0026.

If egg on your steak isn’t your thing, don’t worry there are options. How does Tiger Shrimp with Linguini and Little Necks sound? At Cinderella Restaurant they grill the shrimp then sautée them with linguini and a Grand Marnier sauce. With a little bit of heat, it’s the perfect way to kick up date night. 85 Columbia Street, Fall River. 508-675-0002.  

And, let’s be honest, no trip to Little Portugal would be complete without a warm bowl of Portuguese Kale Soup. Now, let’s get this straight right away, every family makes kale soup differently. There are some basics - kale, red beans, beef and chourico – but to each their own. But if you eat kale soup at one place, check out St. John’s Club. It was featured in The Best Thing I Ever Ate, when Emeril Lagasse said that their recipe was indeed the best thing he ever ate. Alright Emeril, that’s good enough for me. 1365 Rodman Street, Fall River. 508-675-4914.

Hot Dog Joints
It’s becoming pretty apparent that comfort food reigns supreme in Fall River. Showcasing yet even more comfort food are the slew on hot dog joints, and they all have one thing in common – their most popular dog is the plain Coney Island hot dog with the works, which includes mustard, onions and Coney Island sauce on a steamed bun. Here are some places where to get one of these simple joys in life:

Nick’s Coney Island Hot Dogs. 534 S Main Street, Fall River. 508-677-3890.
Faneek’s Coney Island. 269 Rhode Island Avenue, Fall River. 508-678-8261.
JJ’s Coney Island Hot Dogs. 571 S Main Street, Fall River. 508-679-7944.

Pubs and Grub
So far we’ve covered some of the basic food bases Fall River offers but let’s get real. Sometimes we all just a need a good brew or cocktail at the end of a long (or short) day. Check out the newest sports bar in town Jerry Remy’s Sports Bar and Grill. Right now they have a craft cocktail menu with about eight thoughtfully created beverages. Try the Apple Press. It is a plum-infused white whiskey served with a rosemary and thyme cider. It is served cold but will definitely warm you up. Pair that with Kobe Beef Sliders topped with brie, prosciutto and red onion marmalade and you’ve got yourself one tasty meal. And if cocktails aren’t your thing, they’ve got a full bar with plenty of options. 1082 Davol Street, Fall River. 508-676-7369.

Other times you just want a burger and a pint. St. James Irish Pub has you covered. Try one of their handmade burgers such as their Juicy Lucy. It’s a pepper jack cheese stuffed creation topped with sautéed onions in a Boom Boom sauce (I’d tell you what was in it but I’ve have to kill you). Suffice it to say that it’s similar to a horseradish mayo. Pair it with a Guinness and you are good to go. Not in the mood for a burger? Try their 50-cent wings. 91 Purchase Street, Fall River. 508-672-6951. 

Need a nightcap or another place to hit on your barhop? The Tipsy Toboggan will not disappoint. Try their Hot Chocolate Martini. It has chilled hot chocolate, dark creme de cacao, Godiva white chocolate and Absolut Vanilia topped with mini marshmallows. It’s the perfect end to a warm or cold night. 75 Ferry Street, Fall River. 508-567-0550.

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Chef Series: An Interview with Pho Horn's Executive Chef Teven Tran

As seen in the December 2013 issue of Providence Monthly magazine

Teven Tran is the Executive Chef and co-owner of Pho Horn’s – a little hole in the wall who’s big flavors shine bright especially in the cold winter months. The pho, or beef noodle soup, and other traditional Vietnamese dishes are family recipes that have been handed down through the generations.

Photo by Mike Braca.
Teven Tran is serving me some delicious Vietnamese dishes that I'm trying for the first time.

How did your family come to be in Providence?

My father came here from Vietnam in 1987 with my brother and sister. Then my mom and I came over in 1992, to Woonsocket, my first hometown. We had planned to open the restaurant for a few years before we actually purchased it. It was my mom’s idea. We bought it in 2006 and has been family owned and operated ever since.

So your mom had a huge hand in opening this place?
My mom would say, “Why should we go all the way to Boston to have pho?” The original recipe of our pho was from my mom and we’ve since made improvements. I’ve also hired two chefs– one from New York and one locally.

How do you get so much flavor into your pho beef broth?
We cook it with a beef bone. To start the broth out we put beef bone, beef brisket and beef flank into boiling water. After a few hours we take out the brisket and flank so that they don’t overcook. After the bone has cooked for 24 hours, we throw away the bone and strain the broth. We take the strained liquid, transfer it to a pot where we add sugar, salt, white onions, cinnamon, star anise, ground black pepper, whole ginger, shallot and the white part of scallions. We grill the shallot and ginger and mash it before adding them. We cook that for another two hours and then strain that mixture. That is the base of our pho.

Is the pho you serve here much different than what you ate growing up in Vietnam?
We eat it pretty much the same way. The cut of meat is different based on where you eat it (restaurant versus street food). If you are at a more high-end restaurant you might get filet mignon. But the cuts Executive Chef and co-owner Teven Tran prepares a bowl of pho of meat you get here are the same that you would get in Vietnam. The bigger difference is the use of beef bones. In Vietnam everyone uses beef bones because we use the entire cow. In America, no one really uses it. It is actually pretty cheap. I use about 50-60 pounds in each 100-quart pot.

What type of pho do you recommend to someone who has never tried it before?
Have the pho with either chicken or just the steak.

What is your background?
I went to URI and majored in Electrical Engineering. I didn’t learn to cook pho until after I graduated. I started cook- ing here because my family bought this place. I learned how to cook pho from my mother and learned all the other recipes from my uncle. All the other recipes are from his restaurant in Vietnam from before the war.

Aside from the pho, what are some other must-try items on the menu?
The Clay Pot is very traditional in Vietnam. It has salmon, catfish or pork cut into small pieces and simmered in fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, salt, garlic – it looks like a caramel but instead is a little salty. Back in my country we would eat this with the Hot Sweet and Sour Soup. Traditionally we would eat these together. The soup has salmon, catfish or shrimp with bean sprouts, pineapple chunks, celery, fresh tomatoes and thai basil in an aromatic spicy broth. The soup is sweet and sour and the Clay Pot is salty. When you eat these two together they balance each other out.

Do you adjust any dishes according to the season?
In the winter I slightly increase the pepper and the ginger in the pho. In the winter when you eat my soup, I want you to feel good. I want to build up your immune system and other systems. My mom cooked this way. She would say, “In the winter, the human body catches cold easily.” So, we increase the pepper and the ginger to keep the body warm. We decrease it in the summer.

Chef Series: An Interview with The ROI's Executive Chef Travis Lawton

As seen in the October 2013 issue of Providence Monthly magazine

Travis Lawton is the new executive chef at The ROI. He started as a dishwasher and was taken under the wing of his friend John Walsh. Twenty years and many restaurants later, he's graduated from the school of hard knocks and is ready to tell his story through his food.

Photo by Mike Braca

What story are you trying to tell through your menu?
I wanted to tell my story as a cook, cooking in Providence. My friends and family are reflected in my menu.

How is the menu going to be different from what we've previously seen at The ROI?
It's going to reflect the seasons. Fall is my favorite time of year. I'm really excited to put more hearty, homey and earthy stuff on it. Give me some root vegetables and pot pie! That's the best thing about New England. We have four distinct seasons; why not make the best of it?

If I wanted one last blast of summer, what should I eat?
Get the Grilled Watermelon Salad before the watermelon is gone. The watermelon is hot and the tomatoes are roasted and served cold. It's served with some feta, a hint of mint and a balsamic reduction.

How do you support locally sourced products? 
I try to hit the farmers' market as much as I can. Providence is such a close-knit community. I go see my friend's band on the weekends. It's the same with local products. Supporting your local farmer is the same as supporting your local music scene. Its people who love what they're doing and just want to do their thing.

Tell me about one dish that really stands out on your menu.

The duck - it brings out a lot of my past and present together. I learned to make duck confit at a restaurant in Philadelphia. The blackberry demi-glace is a summering-up of a not-so-summery ingredient – the demi-glace. The späetzle is my girlfriend's mom's recipe. It's straight from Germany. I had to translate it from metric.

What goodness can we expect from your upcoming fall menu?
I like turnips and parsnips. I'm sure there will be a pot pie and lasagna. My mom used to make me lasagna every year on my birthday. I liked that.

What is your approach to cooking?
One of the things I like to do is take things that are familiar and tweak it in a di!erent way. Food is supposed to be fun. When it is a little bit surprising, it is fun. When I look at raw ingredients, I know they know what they want to taste like. I'm here to guide them to get there. I'm just a helper with good skills and a great crew. A chef without an ass-kicking crew is like James Brown without the Famous Flames.

Can you give me an example? 
Take an egg. It doesn't get any simpler than an egg. They want to be so many di!erent things. Some eggs want to be breakfast and some want to be späetzle. I'm here to help them out. If they hang out with me they won't be plain for long. They'll rocket up the food chain quickly!

I've got a sweet tooth. What's the pre-scription?
I have to give a huge shoutout to James Bjurman, my sous chef. He's my dessert guy. When I started working here, I immediately called Jimmy, told him to quit his job and start this thing. He makes a mean cheesecake. Everything else is made in-house. The beignets are pretty slammin' too.

The Mecca of Buffets: The Buffet at the Bellagio, Las Vegas

What's happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.  But I think that phrase is really designed for the amount of debauchery that occurs.  People go to Vegas for many reasons, bachelor and bachelorette parties, business expos, shows, clubs.  I don't think any of you would be surprised to know that I was extremely excited to see what the food scene had to offer.  Maybe it makes me sound like a 45-year-old man but I was really looking forward to trying one of their famous buffets.  I'm not normally one for buffets, but these were supposed to be different, especially the one at the Bellagio.  I love to travel; luckily I had a good excuse to be in Vegas - a romantic rendezvous never hurt the soul or the heart.  I came, I ate, I conquered.  Needless to say I spent three hours at the buffet.  If I'm going to do something, I am going to do it right.  In fact, we beat out three sets of seatings around us.  

To start with, this is an appropriate plate to arrange for yourself at the buffet.  It was my last plate of food, but this is how you do it right:

You know how you do it wrong?!  And I saw soooooooooooo many people doing this?  Get a giant plate of fruit or a salad.  You know what I have to say to that?  F*** you.  You come to the Buffet at the Bellagio and you eat fruit?!  Normally I'm not so judgemental (okay who am I kidding?) but seriously.  You have a ridiculous amount of good food options and you decide to eat like a bunny?!  I was so disappointed in so many people.  It got to a point where I was looking at people's plates, judging them for their selections and shaking my head.  I couldn't stand it.  Here are some of the stations you should avoid.  And it is not because they are bad.  Oh no.  It is very fresh don't get me wrong.  But seriously!  Salad and fruit?!?!  STOP IT!

If you come back to your table with these options you should be ashamed of yourself.  Here are some options you should consider.  And as a note, I went for brunch.  So, unfortunately, the giant crab legs I had heard so much about were only available during dinner service.  Oh well, guess I'll have to go back.

Griddle full of pancakes

Fluffy, delicious pancakes, perfect French toast, mini belgian waffles and red velevet waffles

Raspberry cheesecake and carrot cake

Spicy tuna wrap

Cheesecake with blueberries

Chocolate walnut brownies

Eclairs with chocolate filling and chocolate ganache glaze

Some other kind of pretty cheesecake (I guess cheesecake is a crowd pleaser considering how many different kinds there are)

Shrimp cocktail - fresh shrimp, cocktail sauce could use more zing

Breakfast sausage, apple blintzes and fruit sauces

Big ole pile of croissants

Chocolate croissants

Napoleans

Pork buns

Ponzu chicken with pineapple sauce 

Chinese broccoli, tofu pad thai and fried rice (all pretty bland)

Bagel and shmear station

Now, let me show you all the plates me and my man created over the course of three hours.

Plate 1:

Eggs benedict, apple blintz, chocolate croissant, breakfast sausage, thick-cut bacon

Sesame bagel with lox, tomato, dill tartar sauce, capers, lemon, two types of squid salad

The eggs benedict, like most of the food, was good.  Nothing really stood out as stellar but everything was adequate.   Think about the volume of food that is put out.  Some things are going to shine while others, although perfectly fine, are just, well, you know, nothing entirely exciting.  The apple blitz's pastry shell was soft and sweet as well as it's interior.  The apple filling was very sweet.  One was enough.  The chocolate croissant was more croissant than chocolate and I could not really taste the chocolate.  The best things on this plate were really the breakfast sausage and thick cut bacon.  The sausage was very juicy and well cooked and the bacon was everything I wanted in pork fat deliciousness.  

The second plate had highs and lows as well.  After assembling the bagel and lox, we really thought that the lox were made in house.  They were absolutely delicious and on par with some really great lox I've had in both Boston and New York.  Both squid salads were underwhelming, fresh, but boring.

Onto the next plates:

Pork gyuza, ponzu chicken skewer, tofu pad Thai and red velvet waffles with vanilla cream sauce

Man plate of meat and more protein

First round of bottomless champagne

I have to say, my Asian-inspired plate was pretty disappointing.  The pork bun was very soft. I think they typically have a little bit more of a crust on them. And the filling was okay.  The skewer had a gelatinous texture to the sauce and the pork gyoza was a little too pink in the center for my liking.  And to be honest, the pad Thai was dry and I could not find a single piece of tofu in it.  Normally I would have to explain why I was eating a red velvet waffle alongside Asian-inspired food but I'm at a buffet.  Anything goes.  The waffle was very good.  A little dense and cakey; I could see where they were going.  The vanilla cream sauce really brought it together.  

On my man's man plate of meat, meat and protein, I think he got everything he wanted in that plate.  Crispy bacon, two fresh eggs made at the omelette station (perfectly over medium), an amazing piece of prime rib from a carving station, a breakfast sausage and a biscuit.  I think this plate really highlights what was done really well at brunch.  It also says a little something about the stations.  Go to the stations.  Get food from the chefs who make items ready to order.  Some items just don't hold that well under the heat lamps, and that is something to keep in mind.  Perhaps the fattier items hold better, like the bacon and sausage.  Eggs and items prone to drying out, not so much.  

Now, let's talk about the bottomless champagne.  Get the champagne (it's actually prosecco).  It's an extra $10 a person and so worth it.  I definitely had at least five glasses.  Do it!

Plate 3:

Seafood-inspired plate with lox, shrimp cocktail, bluefin tuna, smoked trout, and another white fish from Hawaii

Hearty bread, dill tartar sauce, red onion and lox

More prime rib, eggs, pesto mashed potatoes, fresh bread

This round of seafood had highs and lows as well.  As I made my way through the food I am definitely learning that it is probably a good idea to avoid things that can dry out under a heat lamp.  For example, the bluefin tuna and other white fish were were very dry.  I discovered that I do not enjoy smoked trout, although I believe this is just a personal preference, and the lox was again really delicious.  I could eat the lox all day.  The shrimp cocktail was also very fresh and the cocktail sauce could use some horseradish to kick it up a notch.  

The next plate had more prime rib (as you are seeing we went back for things we really enjoyed).  Also, the pesto mashed potatoes were kind of ridiculously good.  A good concept executed really well.  

Plate 4:

No holds barred throwdown of flan, coffee tiramisu, chocolate walnut brownies, chocolate eclair, strawberries, carrot cake and more prosecco

Blueberry muffin, waffle, pancake, cheese blintz, French toast

This is how you end a buffet sitting.  The flan was really my favorite dessert item.  I've had a lot of flan and this was just wonderful.  It tasted like someone's grandmother was making it in the back.  Truly delicious.  The coffee tiramisu was really nice too.  I wasn't a huge fan of the brownie, I don't like nuts in my chocolate.  The eclair was a nice surprise seeing as it had a chocolate filling and the carrot cake was nice too.  See the strawberries on my plate?  This is the only acceptable way, in my opinion, to be eating fruit at a buffet.  It cleanses the palate and adds something to the experience.  I'm not at a buffet to eat healthy.  Please.

It may seem strange to be ending the meal with a plate full of breakfast but it really is just a different take on sweets.  I preferred to get traditional desserts while my man dove head first into the realm of breakfast sweets.  It was a beautiful plate I must say.  The muffin was gone before I even got to try it and to be honest, there isn't much either of us could complain about on this plate.  Sweet, fluffy and fresh.  The perfect end to a well spaced meal-a-thon.

I would absolutely recommend this buffet to anyone wanting to experience a Vegas buffet.  Aside from the food, our server was incredible.  Our glasses were always filled with prosecco or coffee and he was very attentive to all our needs.  I am definitely going to return to the Bellagio Buffet, but next time, for dinner.  Those crab legs have my name all over them!

Winter Hikes in the East Bay, RI and Southeastern, MA

As seen in the January 2013 issue of The Bay magazine

Illustrations by Caleigh McGrath (cmcgrath88@gmail.com)

Winter is settling in, but that doesn’t mean we have to settle for cozy afternoons by the fire reading a book and sipping tea. (Wait, this isn’t a bad thing!) But let’s just say you want to mix things up a little bit. In an attempt to avoid cabin fever, set out into the wilderness and let the cold wind caress your face. Now, there is really no wilderness in southeastern New England. But for those of us city or suburb bound, a little open space can seem huge; and in a place as small as Rhode Island, where there is basically a Dunkin Donuts on every corner, these open spaces are gems. They are places to be enjoyed for their feelings of solitude or with the company of your choice. Whether a novice in need of a gorgeous view, or a seasoned hiker with a want for a bit of a challenge, we’ve got your hiking needs covered.

To begin with, always check the weather and dress appropriately. Personally, I would not go hiking during a rainstorm. I would, however, watch the snow fall over the ocean, but I am a bit of a romantic. A good base layer of thermals always gets me through either a light or more challenging hike. Wearing a windproof jacket also makes life immeasurably more enjoyable while choosing to spend time in the cold.

Speaking of snow, contrary to popular belief, hiking after a snowfall is a great idea for a number of reasons. If you have never had the pleasure of being the first to walk a trail after a snowfall, add it to your bucket list. The quiet serenity of walking in the woods while hearing fresh snow crunching under your boots is something out of a Laura Ingalls Wilder novel. The sight of snow at the tide line is also something that leaves me in awe. Snow on the beach never lasts too long, so it’s always a treat when you finally do see it.

Fort Phoenix

A kid-friendly adventure 

For a view of the ocean and a family-friendly place to bring the kids, Fort Phoenix is the place for you. Nestled on a peninsula in Fairhaven, it is a Civil War-era fort, complete with cannons. Not only can the kids, and adults, climb all over the cannons, but it’s a great place to view a variety of gulls. Here, you can view Great Black-backed gulls (the largest of the gull family), Herring gulls and Ring-billed gulls. In the summer the piping plover and American oystercatcher may make an appearance but, for now, gulls will do nicely. Common loons or double-crested cormorants may also make appearances. And, because this is a major port to the fishing community in New Bedford, don’t be surprised if a seal or two shows its head while eating discarded bycatch from fishing vessels.

Fort Phoenix is also the perfect place for the beginner hiker. It’s an easy introduction to the outdoors that’ll challenge you a little bit but will also give you an easy, level walk if you like. The canons are positioned on a rocky outcrop where one can easily scramble up and down the granite ledges positioned at various angles. Of course, this wouldn’t be recommended after, let’s say, a freezing night when ice has formed. But on a mild winter day with a pair of warm gloves, traversing these gentle slopes is just plain fun. I remember climbing these as a child and imagining that I was climbing Mount Everest. I would reach the top and suddenly, I was on top of the world, overlooking Buzzards Bay and hearing the gulls call in the distance.

Aside from the rocky outcrops, there is plenty of level hiking area if you are more interested in an easy stroll. For a very flat surface and one that does not compromise the gorgeous view, take a stroll on the hurricane barrier. It’s just over one half mile round trip, and on a winter day near the water, maybe that’s enough. End of Green Street, Fairhaven, MA. 508-992-4524

Horseneck Beach

For a wild time

Let’s say that you are more interested in cool wildlife viewing opportunities than just a pretty view. Head on over to Horseneck Beach in Westport and you just might catch a North American Snowy Owl. Although this Arctic raptor typically overwinters farther north, various factors have influenced North America’s heaviest owl to expand south. These factors range from lack of food supply to a successful breeding season with the juveniles forced to migrate to find suitable habitat elsewhere. Whatever the reason, I’m glad that they are here. Simply put, they are gorgeous. With black bills and yellow eyes, the males are typically pure white while the females and juveniles tend to have some dark scalloping splashed along their plumage. Bring your spotting scope or zoom lens camera and enjoy the thrill of trying to spot one. Unlike other owl species, Snowy Owls are diurnal, meaning that they hunt during the daytime and are most active at dawn and dusk. They are typically found on or near the ground, so don’t go looking up in trees to find them. Another thing to consider with Snowy Owls is that they are long-distance migrants. The juvenile that we may see on our shores has been bred in the Arctic. Observing this species at a distance is best; the less we bother them, the better.

And just because you are shore bound doesn’t mean that catching glimpses of diving ducks is out of the question. Some typical species that could make an appearance are common Eider or Long-tailed Ducks. Both species tend to group themselves into rafts and either chill out on top of the water, take a break on offshore rocks or constantly be in motion as they dive for bait fish, or anything larger if they’re lucky. I find that on beautifully sunny winter days, when I’m dressed in about three to four layers, just getting outside and into nature, whether I see something or not, is utter zen. Now, I may not exactly be outside for a long time, but there is still something special about being outside this time of year. Also, if I know I’m going to be hiking along the beach, I’ll try to choose a day that will not be too windy. On the other hand, if you do brave the beach on a windy day, expect to see a spectacular display of wave action. There is nothing more New England than watching the waves crash while dressed in your finest L.L. Bean gear or in your favorite Carhartt jacket. 5 John Reed Road, Westport, MA. 508-636-8816

Fort Barton

Living history

Now let’s go to the other end of the spectrum. Let’s go inland and do something more challenging. I’m talking about Fort Barton in Tiverton. This is a Revolutionary War fort. The most challenging part of this hike is the very beginning, a somewhat steep climb that immediately rewards with impressive views of the Sakonnet River. And this is just the beginning.

After you’ve caught your breath, start to wind your way around the watch tower and you’ll encounter a series of somewhat steep wooden stairs. Good hiking footwear is essential for this trail. Personally, I enjoy the steep series of stairs; it’s a good workout and feels like the adult version of the granite outcrops at Fort Phoenix. At the top of the final climb to the trailhead take a moment to relish your accomplishment, then head off into the woods and see what you find. If you think hiking in general is serene, try it in the winter. It is just so much quieter. Every sound in the woods seems amplified; the twigs snap louder, the birds tweet sweeter and the soft steps on the dirt trail seems more poignant. Off in the distance you will hear the soft bubbling of a stream that runs through the property, welcome to serenity.

I have a soft spot for wooden bridges, and this place has a few. I always feel like I’ve found some hidden treasure every time I walk over one. This time of year I would expect to find White-crowned Sparrows and Dark-eyed Juncos flitting about the woods. I always feel like I’ve been let in on some secret the moment I recognize a deer trail or catch a glimpse of a White-tailed Deer out of the corner of my eye. Fort Barton has so much to offer: it’s a nexus of land and sea, a place where the river flows from the land, into the bay and then to the sea. It’s quite poetic. 99 Lawton Avenue, Tiverton. 401-624-6114

Just because it’s winter, that doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to staying indoors. Although it may just be for a short amount of time, it’s long enough to get your outdoor fix and explore areas you may not have thought of or see wildlife you never thought you would see.