Monday, June 30, 2014

Lure - Ventura, CA

Will I ever get tired of going to Lure?! Every time Scott and I are in Downtown Ventura I most always chose Lure. The fresh seafood "Lure's" me in every time... We took a seat at the bar as it was totally packed and we knew we would be served dinner there as well.

Scott had just got out of the water so he was craving something light and refreshing to quench his thirst. A glass of Fume Blanc was just perfect!

While at Lure we always start our meal with a half dozen raw oysters. Kusshi's are our favorites but they did not have them in so we decided Blue Point's would be fine. Dressed in cocktail sauce, horseradish and plenty of lemon we were in heaven.

Charbroiled Oysters used to be my thing. I would order dozens and dozens of them and be so content. After finish my portion of these I think I have quenched my craving...

Scott ordered this beautiful Shrimp and Crab Louie. I loved how colorful it was! The one complaint was that it was not dressed enough, a healthy dose of Thousand Island dressing is absolutely necessary for any great Louie. There was a generous portion of shrimp and crab, enough to be included in each bite of salad.

If there is Fish and Chips on any menu it might as well be game over for anything else... I was really hungry and felt that this order would fill me up! I was right, I even shared my french fries with Scott and left feeling full and happy. The light, crispy breading on the fish is perfect.

We wanted to end our meal with something light and refreshing so Key Lime Pie was the perfect decision. I enjoyed the tart, tangy flavor with the buttery crust. It really is just the most perfect dessert for making you feel like you are eating a fluffy cloud.

A perfect meal. 
Thank you, Lure.

Lure - Ventura, CA

Will I ever get tired of going to Lure?! Every time Scott and I are in Downtown Ventura I most always chose Lure. The fresh seafood "Lure's" me in every time... We took a seat at the bar as it was totally packed and we knew we would be served dinner there as well.

Scott had just got out of the water so he was craving something light and refreshing to quench his thirst. A glass of Fume Blanc was just perfect!

While at Lure we always start our meal with a half dozen raw oysters. Kusshi's are our favorites but they did not have them in so we decided Blue Point's would be fine. Dressed in cocktail sauce, horseradish and plenty of lemon we were in heaven.

Charbroiled Oysters used to be my thing. I would order dozens and dozens of them and be so content. After finish my portion of these I think I have quenched my craving...

Scott ordered this beautiful Shrimp and Crab Louie. I loved how colorful it was! The one complaint was that it was not dressed enough, a healthy dose of Thousand Island dressing is absolutely necessary for any great Louie. There was a generous portion of shrimp and crab, enough to be included in each bite of salad.

If there is Fish and Chips on any menu it might as well be game over for anything else... I was really hungry and felt that this order would fill me up! I was right, I even shared my french fries with Scott and left feeling full and happy. The light, crispy breading on the fish is perfect.

We wanted to end our meal with something light and refreshing so Key Lime Pie was the perfect decision. I enjoyed the tart, tangy flavor with the buttery crust. It really is just the most perfect dessert for making you feel like you are eating a fluffy cloud.

A perfect meal. 
Thank you, Lure.

Thursday, June 26, 2014

At Home - Chicken Francese



 Last night I had the kitchen to myself while Scott was sailing so I definitely was inspired to experiment with a new recipe. The days and evenings have been warm so I was drawn to recipes with citrus flavors. I came across Chicken Francese with a Grapefruit and Tarragon sauce so I decided to make a play on that.

Too get pumped up for my evening in the kitchen I decided to bust out a Lyft Stick to my beverage of choice. Lyft can be stirred into any cool beverage and will kick up your energy a few notches when you need to get stuff done. They are easy! 

I had the perfect beverage on hand to get "Lyfted"! Cascade Ice sent me the cutest package in the mail containing Cocunut, Mango Coconut and Pineapple Coconut Sparkling Waters. They even included little adult beverage recipes that can be used as no calorie mixers for fun summer drinks! I loved it. But this evening all I wanted was a cold Coconut sparkling water and it delivered. My favorite is the straight Coconut so think of me and grab one off the shelf when you see one in your local grocery.

 Chicken Francese is what I decided to make and it was totally easy. The hardest part is dredging the chicken with flour and egg - I hate having messy hands. But other than that lets go...

Chicken Francese 
 Melissa Good Taste

4 Chicken breast filets - pounded thin
1/2 cup flour
3 eggs
2 T Olive Oil
2 T butter
1 C Chicken Stock
1/2 C a fruity white wine
2 T chopped Tarragon
Juice from one lemon
Salt and Pepper

1. Create your dredge station for the chicken. Flour first and then the 3 eggs mixed up in a shallow container. The thin, pounded chicken breasts should be seasoned with salt &pepper and then go in flour first and eggs second.
2. Two Tablespoons of olive oil will be enough to coat your frying pan to cook the chicken, make sure oil is hot before putting in dredged chicken. Three minutes on each side or, obviously until cooked all the way through. If you are a Nervous Nelly, use a meat thermometer or something.
3. Once chicken is cooked set aside on a platter.
4. Pour in chicken stock and scrap up the browned bits from pan, two minutes of cooking is perfect. Then mix in wine and let it play in the sauce for at least a minute. 
5.The recipe I was following asked for segments of grapefruit at this stage and I was not feeling it so I just used the juice of one lemon. Squeeze it in the lemon as well as your tarragon. Your butter will be added at this point and let it melt in smoothly rounding out your sauce.
6. Plate up your chicken and pour desired amount of sauce over the plate.

You could easily serve this up with any noodle, rice or potato but we just ate it protein style last night. It was enjoyed with a nice glass of Joel Gott Sauvignon Blanc, I highly recommend!



Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Lazy Dog Restaurant - Oxnard, CA

I was invited to review the newly opened Lazy Dog Restaurant in the Oxnard Collection last week. I walked in earlier than I was expected and was wowed by the lobby decoration, I love a great horse art piece. This was absolutely stunning and I was certain that this place must be on the right track...

Apparently I was the only person in America that did not know Lazy Dog was a part of a chain mainly based in Southern California. It was compared to Cheesecake Factory by friends and I really could not wait to try it and see what all the "Lazy Dog" hype was all about. The menus, both drink and food, are jam packed with interesting choices. Take your time and make your choices wisely!

The suggestion of my server was the "Day At The Spa" Martini - Acai Veev Liquor , pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, raspberries and organic sweet and sour mix. The drink was absolutely delicious and totally dangerous at the same time. It tasted as if there was no alcohol in it at all!

 The starter that caught my eye was the Ahi Tuna Poke - Sushi grade tuna in a sesame peanut dressing with green onions on a crispy wonton topped with avocado, wasabi dressing and sesame seeds. It was phenomenal, in fact I would be tempted to possibly order an additional orders if I was lounging in the future. The seaweed salad served with the poke was ok, I treated it mostly as a garnish though really.

I was told that the Chicken Poblano was the one thing not to miss on the menu so I went ahead and ordered it. Boneless chicken breast, poblano cream sauce, sweet corn and bell peppers meld together to create a warm plate of spicy food. Tamale cakes served on top create a safe haven from the spice and cool down the bites. I loved that they incorporated Tapitio crema and micro cilantro greens. If I had to make a suggestion I would encourage Lazy Dog to only use the best cuts of the breast meat, I got a few "funny" pieces - You know what I mean, like when you get one of those weird tasting McNuggets... Other than that the dish was great and such a large portion that I took half home.

 When the dessert request was asked how could I possibly tell the waitress "No" to the Salted Caramel Creme Brulee?! I devoured that bad boy as soon as it hit the table. the real vanilla bean and salted carmel made in house was totally present in the taste. I loved it.

My very first visit to Lazy Dog Restaurant was a successful one. I learned that the owners of Lazy Dog are relatives to the creator of Mimi's Cafe, now that is a successful restauranting family! Also the inspiration of the decor of the restaurant was inspired by childhood trips to Jackson Hole, hence the horse art work in the lobby! I encourage you to go down to your Lazy Dog and give it a try, in fact bring your dog too and enjoy the patio! 

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Kate's Surprise 30th - Salinas, CA

Scott and I loaded up our little BMW for a quick trip North to celebrate our Cowgirl Kate's 30th Birthday! My brother wanted to surprise her with a party with her closest friends. He rented out the Grower's Pub in Salinas and had it decorated with all things that are near and dear to Kate's life...

The tables, and decorations throughout the room were delightful! I loved the addition of vegetables on the tables, so clever and festive! 

Check Out how cute the room looked...



The party people arrived early to surprise Kate as she walked in thinking she was going to a "business meeting" with James... 

"Look, she's here!"

SURPRISE!!!!
She was so shocked...

Totally surprised...

Too sweet.

We mixed and mingled through cocktail hour. I just loved this room!

Guests of all ages and sizes showed up to celebrate! 
Hello, Tyler Rianda!

I am so proud of these two. I am so blessed to have them both in my life!

Just a few of the party guests, excited to get dinner started!

Choices of salad or soup kicked off our meals - Scott went for the big, beautiful wedge. The blue cheese looked so savory and fantastic with the simple helping of bacon.

But, you know I had to get the soup, it was a New England Clam Chowder. It was a little too thick for my taste. I took a few bites and indulged in conversation rather than my food.

Scott and I sat across from our pals, Justin Wright and his girlfriend, Gloria. We end up talking horses no matter where we go, vacation or not! 

My best friend.

I loved that inbetween courses Kate got up and gave a sweet speech. She thanked James, her parents and all of us for celebrating her birthday with her. She is the best!

As our entrees came out my salmon came early and I could not wait to dive it. For such a large group to be served I thought for sure my salmon would be over done but not to fear! It was perfect. The cream sauce and bites of mashed potatoes were so satisfying. I loved mine.

Most of the group ordered the Prime Rib as that is what the restaurant is known for. They served hearty portions of meat and it seemed that most everyone did not finish their portions. 

Chicken Piccata was also on the menu and it made me think of Cowgirl Kate. She likes her chicken!!

We had a variety of dessert options but I settled on my all time favorite, Creme Brulee and was not let down. I hardly ever am when I order it. I love an egg custard!

The evening quieted down with belly's stuffed, cheeks rosy and hearts full with wonderful memories with good times with family and friends. I cherish nights like this, they never happen near enough and the time flies by too fast. Hug your loved ones and keep your relationships strong.

As I drove back down to the Southern California I wished our stay was longer but look forward to the next time... But until then... 
HAPPY BIRTHDAY COWGIRL KATE!!

Friday, June 20, 2014

805 Bar & Grilled Cheese - Ventura, CA

Yesterday we had quite the busy day giving lessons, riding horses and completely our ranch chores before we both split for the evening for different appointments. Mine were foodie related of course, and Scott was working on his sailing course. I waited for him in front of his sail boat slip in the Ventura Harbor at 805 Bar and Grilled Cheese.

I ordered a McManis Merlot and sipped on it while I watched boats come in and out of the harbor. It was quite relaxing. I met fellow boat enthusiasts, as this was the local hangout. I felt very welcome!


Waiting and watching...

Fur and boots... I was happy to have them on as it was pretty chilly in the harbor. Scott's boat didn't get in until about 8:00 P.M.

There he is! I was like a proud parent taking photos of him motor up to the dock, close up the boat and do the evening chores. I know how much he loves being on the water so it is equally exciting for me.

I didn't sample any of the grilled cheese creations the 805 Bar puts out but I am sure I will be spending many evenings there waiting for my little sailor to come in from sea!